andBreanndán Mac Fheorais asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is prepared to introduce proposals for legislation to increase allowances payable to the dependents of the men who lost their lives in the mercantile service during the last war.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dependents of Seamen.
The pensions and allowances paid under the Irish seamen's compensation scheme to dependents of seamen who lost their lives during the 1939-1945 world war are frequently reviewed. Increases have been granted on a number of occasions since the scheme was introduced but no further general increase is contemplated at present. The position will, however, continue as hitherto to be kept under examination.
When were they last reviewed?
The undertaking I gave at the time was that the pensions and allowances operating here would be not less favourable than those operating in Great Britain. That is still the position. I think there is some case for reviewing the position now.
There is, and I hope the Minister will do so.