asked the Minister for Finance if, pending the introduction of the measures for the purpose of providing compensation for loss of life, property and personal effects as a result of the Dublin City bombings, steps will be taken without delay, by Emergency Order or otherwise, to make available financial aid (by the allocation of a cash allowance) to enable those affected to restore or partly restore their homes and business, and also to provide a substantial weekly cash allowance to the widows and dependents of victims of the bombing.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin Bombings.
Mr. Byrne
The Deputy's wishes are already being substantially met by the arrangement between the Department of Local Government and Public Health and the Dublin Corporation, under which the corporation have authority, subject to recoupment In the Government in due course, to carry out repairs to damaged dwelling-houses sufficient to make them habitable, to provide temporary accommodation for people left homeless and to make cash advances for the purchase of furniture and clothing. I have no reason to think this arrangement, coupled with the assistance being rendered by the Irish Red Cross and other agencies, does not meet the situation reasonably well, pending the making of definitive provision for compensation. The necessary measures to this end are in an advanced state of preparation; the Bill dealing with property losses is expected to be ready for introduction in the House next week:
Mr. Byrne
Will the Minister answer the last portion of my question — whether any arrangements have been made to give a temporary cash allowance to the widow, Mrs. O'Loughlin, and the widow, Mrs. Callery? Where are they to get the means to maintain themselves while the Bill is being prepared?
The corporation have powers, within certain limits, in all these matters.
Mr. Byrne
I consulted with the City Manager and I believe the City Manager has no power to give a cash allowance to maintain those widows or their dependents during the period that will elapse until the legislation is enacted. If what the Minister says is correct, I shall be very glad if he will communicate with the City Manager and indicate to him that he can make a cash allowance for that purpose.
The Deputy must cut short his speech.
Mr. Byrne
I will put it in the nature of a question.
Which might not alter its essential character.
Mr. Byrne
Will the Minister communicate with the City Manager and say he has power to give a cash allowance? I know three people who are suffering untold hardships, who are in want. No matter who is looking after them, inside or outside, I saw three of them yesterday and they are in want. Will the Minister add a few words to what he has already said in order to relieve the minds of those who are in want?
I cannot add any more.
Mr. Byrne
So they are to go in want?