asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that a claim was submitted to the Compensation (Ireland) Commission, by James O'Brien, Ballydavis, Portlaoighise, Leix, for damage done to his house in February and March, 1921, by British forces; if he can explain the cause of the delay in dealing with this and other such claims, and if he will give instructions for an early hearing and payment of whatever compensation is granted in this case.
CEISTEANNA.—QUESTIONS. [ORAL ANSWERS.] - PORTLAOIGHISE CLAIM FOR DAMAGED DWELLING.
No award has yet been received from the Compensation (Ireland) Commission in respect of this claim. Until an award has been received no payment can be made. The Compensation (Ireland) Commission is an International Tribunal set up by the British and Saorstát Governments, and is not under my control as Minister for Finance. I am, however willing to make representation to the Commission for an early hearing in special cases.