asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that a teacher named Miss Bridget O'Flaherty, who was a student at Spiddal Irish College in July of last year, was fired at by the military and severely wounded; whether any investigation took place with reference to this occurrence, and, if so, with what result; further, whether it is proposed to compensate Miss O'Flaherty on account of the injuries sustained and expenses incurred.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - ALLEGED SHOOTING OF TEACHER.
I am aware that Miss O'Flaherty was wounded. The matter was duly investigated by a Court of Inquiry, which found that the soldier who fired the shot was justified in doing so, and exonerated him from all blame. It is regretted that it is not practicable to make any payment to her by way of compensation.
Mr. O'CONNELL
Might I ask the Minister if civilian witness were invited to that inquiry or had they an opportunity of giving evidence there? Was it a purely military inquiry?
If the Deputy will put down another question I will let him know.