asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that John Crowe, formerly lock-keeper on the canal near Killaloe, has been deprived of his employment, and certain perquisites of such employment, and that his house was demolished consequent upon the Shannon Scheme; that the compensation given is inadequate for the loss sustained, and whether he proposes to have the case reconsidered.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Canal Lock-keeper (Killaloe).
The employment of John Crowe as lock-keeper had to be terminated in consequence of the closing of the old navigation course between Limerick and Killaloe. The compensation allowance awarded to him was calculated with full knowledge of the facts. I see no prospect of the case being usefully reopened.
Mr. Hogan (An Clár):
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that practically the same answer was given in this case by his predecessor?
Yes, I am aware of that. I have looked into this matter carefully, and I would be most happy to discuss it with those most concerned if there is any new evidence available. On the case as presented in the documents before me, I do not see any hope of reopening it, but if there is any new evidence I would be most happy to reopen the case.
Mr. Hogan
Would it not be the basis of new evidence that an award was made to people of similar occupation on the canal? On the basis of that new aspect would the Parliamentary Secretary reopen it?
I am not aware that there has been any inequality in relation to this particular individual relative to the basis. They have all been calculated on the same basis but if there is any new evidence presented to me I will be delighted to look into it.