asked the Minister for Finance if he will state why compensation has been refused to Fireman Michael Dowling, Lake View Terrace, Athlone, in respect of injuries received on February 7th, 1923, whilst discharging his duties between Castlebar and Islandady Stations owing to his engine being overturned, due to the removal of the rails and the raiding of the train by Irregulars; whether, as Dowling was severely scalded and has not yet totally recovered from his injuries, he will have this case re-investigated with a view to granting compensation.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - ATHLONE COMPENSATION CLAIM.
SEAN O LAIDHIN
The application of the person named by the Deputy was refused by the Compensation (Personal Injuries) Committee on the grounds that the applicant was not in any way permanently incapacitated, and incurred no medical or out-of-pocket expenses as a result of the injuries. The applicant suffered no hardship, and the circumstances do not merit a reconsideration of the case.
Arising out of that reply, is the Minister aware that the applicant was three months idle, and that he is not yet in a position to perform his duties? This was not an accident, but was due to the rails being removed during the Irregular activities. If the man can prove that the rails were removed will the Minister reconsider the case with a view to giving compensation?
I understand the applicant was injured on February 5, 1923, and resumed work in July, 1923. During his absence from his duties his wages of 12s. a day were paid in full by the railway company, and, in addition, he received £20 from the company for expenses and £3 10s. from his Society. He did not pay anything to the doctor, and he is unmarried.
I would like to remind the Minister that although the applicant received 12s. a day, still he must have suffered owing to Irregular activities.
I am afraid that is an argument.