asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that a claim by Madame Maud Gonne McBride in respect of a motor car which was seized by British military in September, 1920, has been refused, whilst it is alleged that many similar claims have been paid, and if he will state the reasons for refusing to sanction the recommendation of the Commission in this case.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - CLAIM FOR SEIZED MOTOR.
The claim referred to by the Deputy was considered by the Compensation (Ireland) Commission and decided by them to be outside the scope of their terms of reference. Provision had been made that cases which were technically outside the terms of reference, but which were deserving of compassionate treatment, would not be definitely ruled out by the Commission, but would be reserved for discussion with the Department of Finance. In connection with the claim in question the Commission did, in fact, make a recommendation to the Department, but the Minister was unable to agree that the case was one in which any ex gratia payment should be made from the funds of the Saorstát.
Will the President state why the recommendations of the Commission have not been carried out in this case, in view of the fact that the President and the Minister were members of the Association that used the car at the time? Will he say whether it is fair or just that the Minister should now use his power to prevent this lady getting proper compensation?
I cannot answer the Deputy.
Had her political opinions anything to do with that?
I cannot answer that question. If the Deputy will put down a question to the Minister he will probably get an answer.