asked the Minister for Defence if he will state why dependent's allowance has not been paid to Mrs. Mary Hayden, Fair Green Cottages, Mullingar, in respect of her son, John Hayden, No. 2815, A Company, 10th Battalion, who attested in July, 1922, and who was earning £1 per week, exclusive of board prior to attestment; and further, whether he is aware that on the instructions of Army Officers Mrs. Hayden filled in six forms and forwarded them to Portobello Barracks, but without result, and whether seeing that her son is still serving, and that Mrs. Hayden is in a destitute condition, he will have payment made in this case.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. [ORAL ANSWERS.] - DEPENDENT'S ALLOWANCE.
SEÁN O LAIDHIN
I would refer the Deputy to the reply given to a question in the same case on the 2nd ultimo. During local investigation of her claim it was ascertained from Mrs. Hayden that her son had been unemployed for five months prior to his enlistment. She was notified on the 24th March, 1923. that her claim had, therefore, been disallowed.
I would like to know from the Minister if it can be proved that this woman was dependent on the-earnings of her son, and that he was earning £1 per week, exclusive of board prior to attestment, would the Minister consider it?
Yes. If the applicant for dependent's allowance could give proof to that effect it would alter the circumstances. It would be open to re-consideration.