asked the Minister for Defence if he has received a report from the Military Authorities, Templemore, in connection with a collision which took place at Cappalinnan, Rathdowney, Leix, between a military lorry and an armoured car proceeding from Templemore to Rathdowney, on January 11th, 1923, and two cars belonging to Mrs. Bridget Ringwood and Mr. Robert Barton, in which the cars owned by the latter were damaged beyond repair, and a horse seriously injured (since died); whether the military lorry and armoured car were travelling at a speed of 20 miles per hour without lights, and whether he has received several applications for compensation from Mrs. Ringwood for £15, and from Mr. Barton for £17, and if he can now state the decision of the Ministry in connection with this case.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - MOTOR COLLISION IN LEIX.
I have received a report in which it is stated that the persons mentioned were driving in one car, and leading the horse attached to the second car, which at the time of the accident, was on the centre of the road, both cars being without lights. The armoured car, in trying to pass the second car, struck it with its mudguard. The horse became frightened, jumped into a ditch, and as a result both cars were somewhat damaged. In all the circumstances, I am not prepared to approve of any payment being made by way of compensation. In any case no legal liability lies against the military authorities.
Is the Minister aware that an affidavit has been made by the parties to whom this damage has been done, which disputes the statement made by him in answer to the question, and would he cause another Inquiry to be made in view of the charges made in this case?
I am not aware of the facts stated by the Deputy, but I will take note of them and have the matter gone into.