asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that Old I.R.A. men in receipt of special allowances are being subjected to a very severe means test, and that in some cases allowances have been reduced because the recipients possess small plots of ground; and, if so, if he will take such steps as are necessary to have the means test modified.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Old I.R.A. Special Allowances.
The scheme for the payment of a special allowance is based on a means test, as the object of the allowance is to raise the income of an applicant to one of reasonable comfort. It is not based on service in the I.R.A. but upon membership only during the period 1st April, 1921 to the 11th July, 1921. I regret to say that the scheme has been abused in many cases. The whole question is now under examination and, pending its completion, it is not proposed to make any alteration. I hope to make a statement on the matter at an early date.