asked the Minister for Finance whether he will state the grounds on which he based his decision to refuse to issue the necessary certificate which would enable Mr. Patrick Finnegan, Kilkerrin, Ballinasloe, who served in the R.I.C. from September, 1916, to September, 1920, and who resigned on that date at Newcastle, Co. Limerick, to obtain a pension.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - R.I.C. PENSION CLAIM.
Mr. Finnegan joined the Royal Irish Constabulary on 19th September, 1916, and resigned on 26th August, 1920, and had, therefore, completed less than four years' service at the date of his retirement from the Force, and in accordance with the general policy followed in such cases as communicated by me to the House on the 5th November last, I have not felt able to issue the necessary certificate under Section 5 of the Superannuation and Pensions Act, 1923, which would render Mr. Finnegan eligible for the award of a pension.