asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that a member of the Defence Forces who had served over three and a half years, and was discharged on account of a disability, arising out of his services, which will be permanent, is not entitled to any disability pension or benefit; and, if so, if he will take the necessary steps to ensure that this person receives some pension or benefit.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disability Pension for Discharged Member of Defence Forces.
17.
The Army Pensions Acts provide for the grant of pensions in respect of disablement due to disease only where such disease is attributable to service in the Defence Forces during the period 1st April, 1922, to 30th September, 1923, or to service during the Emergency Periods, viz., the period from 3rd September, 1939, to 2nd September, 1946. As the person to whom the Deputy's question refers had not service during either of these periods his case does not come within the scope of the Acts.
Would there be any source from which the Minister might be able to make an ex gratia payment to this man?
This man is in the same position as any other worker. He is provided for by the Social Welfare Acts and is in receipt of social Welfare benefit.