asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that Private John McGahan, of No. 10, C Block, Married Quarters, Keane Barracks, Curragh Camp, Army No. R.916, who attested on the 29th May, 1922, and was discharged on the 28th May, 1924, has not received 28 days pay and allowance on discharge, as provided for in Defence Order No. 20; further, whether his wife has not received two weeks dependents allowance, amounting to £3 10s., due to date of discharge, and whether he will expedite payment, and, also, consider the issuing of a railway voucher to Mrs. McGahan and her five children to enable them to return to their native place, Cookstown, Co. Tyrone.
CEISTEANNA.—QUESTIONS. [ORAL ANSWERS.] - DISCHARGED SOLDIER'S CLAIM.
Mr. McGahan was not entitled to the benefits of Defence Order No. 20, which was in operation only during the period when general demobilisation was in progress and when all N.C.O.'s and men were required to pass a strict medical examination and to re-attest at lower rates of pay or take their discharges. That period extended up to the 31st March last. Mr. McGahan was not demobilised. He re-attested on the 29th November last for six months, and left the Army in the ordinary way on the 29th ultimo, on completion of service. I am, however, considering the desirability of extending the period covered by the Defence Order mentioned. When a decision has been reached Mr. McGahan's case will be reconsidered.
A cheque for £2 15s. has been forwarded to Mrs. McGahan in respect of dependents' allowance due to her up to the date of her husband's discharge from the Army. I regret that I am unable to comply with the Deputy's suggestion to issue a railway voucher to her and her five children.