asked the Minister for Defence if, on or about the 11th of July, 1923, Mr. John Behan, of Cherryville, Kildare, sent in a claim amounting to £52 10s., to General McMahon, then commanding at the Curragh, on account of damage done to his land and premises resulting from occupation by troops of the National Army; if the alleged damage was inquired into soon after by Officers of the Command, and if Mr. Behan will be awarded compensation.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - KILDARE CLAIM AGAINST ARMY.
The claim referred to was duly received from Mr. Behan. It is receiving consideration at the moment. I will communicate the result to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Is the Minister aware that this claim was sent in on the 11th July, 1923, and does he not think that there has been undue delay in dealing with it?
I think the claim was received on the 18th July, 1923, and it has been receiving consideration. For various reasons, it has not been settled, but it will be settled at the earliest possible moment.