asked the Minister for Defence if any decision has yet been arrived at with reference to the Old I.R.A. men's claims for increased pensions and if it is proposed to introduce proposals for legislation at an early date for the purpose of improving their conditions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Old I.R.A Pension Claims.
Mr. Byrne
A decision has not yet been reached as regards increasing the pensions of the Old I.R.A. and I am not, therefore, in a position to say if legislation will or will not be introduced to have such pensions increased.
Mr. Byrne
Does the Minister propose to introduce legislation at an early date, as promised?
The Deputy is aware that the applications are very many. These are being examined at present and until they have been examined I cannot give any decision in regard to the Deputy's question.
Mr. Byrne
On the 28th June I asked the Minister the same question and he said: "I have not had an opportunity of giving their applications attention." Surely nine months is sufficient time in which to give ample consideration to the applications and in which to give relief to these people?