asked the Minister for Defence if he is now in a position to say whether it is intended to increase the allowances payable to soldiers' dependents, and, if so, when the increased allowances will become payable; further, whether it is his intention to extend the definition of "dependent" so as to provide allowances for soldiers' dependent relatives who are not now entitled to be paid allowances.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Allowances to Soldiers' Dependents.
The allowances payable to soldiers' dependents have been increased with effect from the 20th August, 1941. The arrears of the increase are now being paid to the soldiers' wives.
It is not intended to extend the definition of "dependent" as suggested in the second part of the question.
What is the amount of the increase?
I think that the wife of the soldier receives 3/6 a week extra. There is no increase in respect of the first child, but there is 3/6 a week extra in respect of the second child, and 1/9 a week extra in respect of the third child.
Would the Minister reconsider the regulation which prevents a soldier who got married since March of this year being given a separation allowance? Surely the Minister does not object to a person getting married.
I do not object at all, but a date has been fixed, and any soldier joining the forces knows exactly the terms of the contract into which he enters.