asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware that, notwithstanding existing legislation, the practice of pawning pension books persists in certain areas to the great detriment of the welfare of many pensioners and their families, and that the continuance of the practice appears to be due principally to the insufficient powers of inquiry possessed by the Gárda Síochána; and if he is prepared to consider this matter with a view to the introduction of amending legislation at an early date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pawning of Pension Books.
Very few cases of pawning of pension books have come to the notice of the Gárda Síochána since the passing of the Pension Books (Prohibition of Alienation) Act, 1932. I consider that the provisions of that Act are adequate and I do not think that anything would be gained from the passing of further legislation.