asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that a private soldier on reporting sick on Monday, 1st November, 1954, to the medical officer, was confined to barracks from 1st to 5th November and that as a result he lost 13/- ration allowance; if he will state the reasons for the deduction, and whether the man in question has applied for a discharge, and, if so, what decision has been taken thereon.
Ceisteann—Questions. Oral Answers. - Soldiers' Ration Allowance.
I am aware of the matter referred to by the Deputy.
The soldier in question reported sick on 1st November, 1954, and the medical officer at Sarsfield Barracks, Limerick, recommended that he should sleep in barracks for one week. He slept in barracks from 2nd to 5th November, 1954.
Since he was provided with Army rations during this period, ration allowance at the rate of 3/5 per day was not, in accordance with regulations, issued to him.
The soldier has applied for discharge but a decision in the case has not yet been taken.