asked the Minister for Defence whether a claim for dependent's allowance lodged by Mrs. Kate Hurley, Nedineagh, Dunmanway, Co. Cork, in respect of the service of her son, Volunteer John Hurley, No. 25474, Pay Book No. 20972, C. Company, Drimoleague, who joined the National Army in Dunmanway on 23rd August, 1922, was disallowed; whether he is aware that Volunteer Hurley was, prior to enlisting, a permanent road labourer in receipt of £2 5s. 0d. a week from Cork Council, and whether Mrs. Hurley's claim will be reconsidered.
WRITTEN ANSWERS. - CORK CLAIM FOR DEPENDENT'S ALLOWANCE.
The claim of Mrs. Hurley was disallowed after due investigation, on the ground that the extent of dependence, that is to say, the amount normally contributed by her son to his home over and above the cost of his own maintenance therein for a reasonable period prior to his enlistment, was less than the minimum required by the regulations, 12/- per week, before an allowance might be issued. It was ascertained that John Hurley had not been in regular employment prior to enlistment, that his average earnings were 24/- per week, and that the extent of dependence was about 8/- per week.