asked the Minister for Finance if he can state the number of applications for compensation under the Damage to Property (Compensation) Act, 1923, at present in his Department awaiting hearing by the Courts, and if he is aware that claimants are suffering great hardship as a result of the delay?
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - COMPENSATION APPLICATIONS.
222 applications now remain to be heard throughout the Saorstát, and practically all of them will probably be disposed of by the end of next month. An occasional complaint has been made as to delays in hearing cases but I am satisfied that claims have been heard as expeditiously as the heavy work of the courts allowed, and I am aware that the delay in many cases was attributable to the failure of applicants and their solicitors to furnish necessary particulars in due time.
Can the Minister for Finance give us any indication as to the percentage of claims which have been awarded and have been paid?
That is a different question entirely and the Deputy will have to give me separate notice.