asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that Thomas Grainger, 21c Luke Street, ex-National Army, Pension No. 3 P. 78, who is in receipt of a pension of eight shillings and fourpence per week for loss of fore finger and injury to second finger on right hand by gunshot wound, has had notice to the effect that his pension is to be withdrawn and a gratuity of thirty pounds allowed; that Grainger is only twenty years of age, and that the serious loss he has sustained leaves him unfit to follow his occupation, and if, in view of the nature of his injuries and the difficulties of finding employment for a young man so handicapped, he will take steps to have the case reconsidered and adequate compensation or continuance of pension made.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - EX-NATIONAL ARMY MAN'S PENSION.
Thomas Grainger made a claim under the Army Pensions Act, 1923, only in respect of injury to his left hand. The Medical Board which examined him did not report any other disability. A temporary pension was granted, pending the completion of surgical treatment, which was given in a military hospital. In due course the degree of disability became such that, under the provisions of the Act, a pension was no longer issuable. On reassessment of the claim, however, it was found practicable to award a gratuity of £30. I am not aware of any new circumstances calling for a reconsideration of that award.