asked the Minister for Finance if he can now state when it is proposed to introduce the Bill for the purpose of providing compensation for loss of life, property and personal effects, suffered by citizens of the State arising out of bombings by foreign aircraft.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Compensation for Bombing Losses.
A Bill providing for compensation for injuries to property caused by the dropping of bombs from foreign aircraft and kindred incidents is now in draft and I hope to be able to introduce it in the near future. Compensation for death and personal injuries will be dealt with in a scheme, to be made in pursuance of an order under the Emergency Powers Act, 1939, which is in course of preparation.
Mr. Byrne
Will the Minister state whether there is any fund from which the victims of these bombings, those people who have lost property, household goods and chattels, can be assisted? Will he indicate if there is any place to which they can apply for temporary assistance? Has the Minister any such fund, or does he know of any fund which would deal with such cases?
So far as funds under my control are concerned, there is none at present which would be available for that purpose.
Mr. Byrne
Has the Minister knowledge of any place to which the victims can apply for assistance? I should like to emphasise definitely that it is not charity that they seek, but merely assistance to enable them to purchase delph and other things. I am aware——
The Deputy must not make a speech on this matter. His original question is quite a separate question.
Mr. Byrne
May I have an answer from the Minister?
I have answered the Deputy's question.
Mr. Byrne
Then there is no place to which they can apply—is that the position?