asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he has caused any inquiry to be made into the allegations made against the residents of Tory Island by the Captain and crew of the s.s. "Wheat-plain," recently wrecked off the Island; if he is aware that these allegations have been emphatically denied by the residents concerned, and by Mr. Patrick Rodgers, Irish Lights Contractor; and if he will provide an opportunity for publicly disproving them.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Allegations Against Tory Island Residents.
I am aware that allegations attributed to the master and the crew of the vessel have been emphatically denied by the residents and it would appear that the master and the crew did not make any effort to look after the ship's cargo and equipment. My official concern, however, is limited to the salvage of the cargo and other contents of the wreck. On an explanation of their obligations in respect of salved cargo the islanders generally have facilitated the receiver of wreck in the recovery of all the articles salved.
Is the Minister aware that there is a very strong suspicion amongst the islanders that the ship and cargo were heavily insured and that the ship was not in immediate danger when abandoned by the captain and crew?
I am not aware of any such thing as that.