asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that previous to the evacuation of the British Army from Portlaoighise Barracks, Leix, Messrs. Gaze and Jessop, auctioneers, purchased a considerable quantity of stores and other property, for which they paid the British Army authorities; whether it is correct to state that all such property was taken over by officers of the National Army on condition that Messrs. Gaze and Jessop would be fully compensated for same; whether he has received repeated claims for £1,045 3s. Od. covering the value of such commandeered property, and if he can now state definitely when he will be in a position to pay the amount due in this case.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - PURCHASE OF MILITARY STORES FROM BRITISH AUTHORITIES.
Messrs. Gaze and Jessop purchased a quantity of stores from the British Authorities for a total sum of £600. It appears that only a small portion of these stores were taken over by the Army. The amount of the claim made by the firm has, however, far in excess of the sum paid for the whole of the stores. Moreover, the firm cannot produce a receipt for the articles alleged to have been handed over to the Army. Correspondence is in progress with the firm in the matter, and it is hoped to settle the case at an early date.
Is it correct to state that an agreement has been arrived at on behalf of the Army Authorities and Messrs. Gaze and Jessop for compensation to be paid on a basis of £776 7s. Od.; and, if so, will he see, if such agreement has been arrived at, that such amount should be paid at an early date.
I am not aware that such agreement has been made, but I will have inquiries made.