asked the Minister for Defence if he will state why the claim of B. and J. Foley, trading as the College Green Typing Company, has not been paid in respect of the commandeering of and damage to a Gammeter type-setting machine by National Forces on November 28th, 1922; whether he is aware that as a result these men were deprived of their means of livelihood from the date of the commandeering until December 8th, 1923, when the machine was returned; that the claimants, to facilitate the Official Enquiry into the matter in March, 1924, parted with all the correspondence in their possession relative to the seizure of the machine, and hold a receipt for same from Commandant Liam Murphy, Island Bridge Barracks; and whether payment of compensation in this case will be expedited.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - CLAIM AGAINST ARMY (DUBLIN).
As the Deputy is no doubt aware from a communication addressed to him on the 25th ultimo, Messrs. Foley's claim has been receiving consideration. The uncommon nature of the machine in question led to unusual difficulties in assessing the cost of the damage which it has suffered. It is expected, however, that a decision will be made on this point and a settlement in respect of repairs effected at a very early date. The portion of the claim in respect of loss consequential on the seizure of the machine cannot be entertained.