asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that Private Cornelius Gubbins (Army No. R/82308) of Sunville, Glounthane, Cork, who is suffering from arthritis developed during the emergency, was refused a pension on the grounds that his application was late and, further, if he is aware that Mr. Gubbins is drawing home assistance benefit for his wife, four children and himself; and, if so, whether he will give consideration to extending the time for applying for pensions in the case of ex-soldiers with a medical history during the emergency which developed and became more serious afterwards.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Pensions.
I am aware of the case mentioned by the Deputy. The latest date as laid down in the Army Pensions Act, 1946, for receipt of applications for pensions in respect of disability arising from disease attributable to service during the emergency period is the 1st January, 1947, or four years from the date of discharge from the forces whichever is the later. Discharge from the forces in this context includes transfer to the Reserve.
Ex-Private Gubbins was transferred to the Reserve on 23rd June, 1945 and the latest date for the receipt of an application from him was, therefore, 23rd June, 1949. No application was received from him on or before this date. As I have no discretionary power to accept a late application I regret that no action is now possible in the matter.
I do not propose to introduce legislation to extend this period.
Is the Minister aware that Private Cornelius Gubbins maintains that an application can be put in a long time before the closing date?
I have nothing to add to the information I have already given.