asked the Minister for Finance whether Mr. P. Kennedy, ex-R.I.C., Lisbane, Shanagolden, has been granted a pension because of his having resigned his position in that Force during the British régime, owing to his national sympathies, and if not, whether he will state the reasons for refusal, and whether he will re-open this case in order to allow the applicant to put in fresh evidence to substantiate his first application.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - RESIGNATION FROM R.I.C.
PADRAIG O hOGAIN
Mr. Kennedy's claim for pension was duly investigated by the Committee of Inquiry into Regisnations and Dismissals from the Royal Irish Constabulary. The Committee did not consider that the resignation had been proved to have been caused by national sympathies. I have reviewed the case, and, after most careful consideration of the evidence submitted by the applicant and as the result of inquiries made by me, I can see no ground for differing from the opinion formed by the Committee of Inquiry and am accordingly unable to authorise the grant of a pension. I am, however, prepared to consider any fresh evidence that may be submitted.