asked the Minister for Finance whether he received an application for pension from Mr. John Costello, of Ballymoe, Co. Galway, who resigned from the R.I.C. on the 23rd July, 1920, and, if so, whether any decision has been come to with regard to the claim.
WRITTEN ANSWERS. - EX-POLICEMAN'S CLAIM FOR PENSION.
An application for a pension was received from Mr. Costello and was duly investigated by the Committee set up by the Government to inquire into resignations and dismissals from the Royal Irish Constabulary, who did not report favourably on the application. I am not satisfied, after a careful review of all the facts and circumstances of the case, that Mr. Costello's resignation from the Constabulary was caused by his national sympathies, and I regret that I cannot see my way to issue a certificate under Section 5 of the Superannuation and Pensions Act, 1923, which would render him eligible for a pension.