To ask the Minister for Defence whether his attention has been called to the complaint of Mr. Thos. J. Rock, of Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, respecting the new Ford car which was handed over for safety to the National troops on 17th July, and signed for by Capt. Farrell, Officer commanding the military barracks, Roscommon; whether it was understood the car was to have been returned on the 8th August, but that it has not yet been returned although all the other owners' cars in the town have been returned; whether he has any knowledge of the allegation that the car has been destroyed; whether he is further aware Mr. Rock has suffered grievous monetary loss because of the absence of his means of livelihood, and whether he will be compensated for the loss of his car, and if so how soon.
WRITTEN ANSWERS. - CASTLEREA RESIDENT'S MOTOR CAR.
Mr. Rock's car was retained owing to shortage of transport. It was returned to him on the 9th instant. The question of compensation for the use of his car is at present under consideration.
To ask the Postmaster-General if he is aware that telegraphic communication with the Arran Islands has been cut off for several months, if he will state the reason for this withdrawal of telegraphic facilities, and when he proposes to restore the service.
Enquiries made by me in the matter show that telegraphic communication with the Arran Islands has been completely suspended since 27th August owing to the malicious burning of the cable hut at Cashlah Bay, and the cutting of the land wires at several places between the but and Spiddal. Several attempts have been made to restore the wires but it has so far been found impossible to carry out the work in consequence of the disturbed conditions in the district. I am giving the matter special attention and wish to assure you that the lines will be repaired and the service re-established on the first available opportunity.