asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that an award of £250 was made to Cornelius O'Leary, Barrack Street, Bantry, in respect of the occupation of his house by the National Army; whether O'Leary has been asked to refund £30 of the amount awarded, and whether he is aware that the claimant considers the award entirely inadequate, and whether the whole case will be reconsidered.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - MILITARY OCCUPATION OF BANTRY HOUSE.
The sum of £230 was awarded to the claimant and paid in December last.
After payment had been made it was ascertained that the claimant had already received £20 on account from the Army Finance Officer in the previous April; consequently as the claimant has been paid £20 in excess of the award, he has been informed that it will be necessary for him to refund that amount.
The award was made by the Interdepartmental Committee on Commandeered Premises, after full and careful consideration, and cannot be reopened. I am not aware that the award is considered inadequate by the claimant. who gave a receipt accepting the payment in full settlement of all claims against the Government in respect of the military occupation of his premises.