asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that an application was made by Mr. Richard Bertles, of Arndnagrath, Walderstown, Athlone, for the return of one watch, a revolver and bandolier, and a sum of £7 12s., stated to have been found on the person of his son, Richard Bertles, junior, who was shot dead by members of the National Army in the shop of Mr. Nicholas Cunningham, Ballymore, Westmeath, on the night of the 22nd of January, 1923, and which have not been returned; also if he is aware that the body of the deceased was taken to Ballymahon by the military, who were in charge of Officer James McKeon; whether he will see that the application is favourably considered and the property of the deceased returned to his father.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - CLAIM FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY (ATHLONE).
An application was received from Mr. Bertles for the return of the articles in question. All personal property found on the body of his son, Richard, was handed over at Ballymahon to his friends after the remains had been removed there from Ballymore by military. The deceased had been in armed opposition to the State, and met his death in attempting to escape from troops who had called on him to halt. The question of returning the revolver and bandolier to his father cannot be considered, and Mr. Bertles has been informed that his claim for compensation in respect of any missing property cannot be entertained.