asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that Volunteer George P. Smith, at present a patient in St. Brican's Hospital, has been refused compensation or pension; that this young man, who joined the National Army from the Irish Volunteers in March, 1922, served in Dublin and in Kerry; that he was injured in an explosion on February 25th, 1924; that Smith never appeared before a Medical Board, and that his injuries comprise complete loss of an ankle joint and heel bone, burns on hands and face, injuries to eyes, and that his leg is 4½ inches short, and that he states he has never been a day out of hospital since his accident and is still on crutches; that he was recommended to wear a surgical slipper and glasses, which were refused by the Army Pensions Board, and if he will see that adequate compensation is paid in this case.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - SOLDIER'S CLAIM FOR INJURIES.
I regret that Mr. Smith's claim under the provisions of the Army Pensions Act, 1923, had to be disallowed on the grounds that his injuries were received subsequent to the date of the termination of the period of military service to which that Act applies. It was not, therefore, necessary to have him examined by the Army Pensions Medical Board. He was, however, examined by a Medical Board in connection with his discharge from the Forces.
Consideration is being given to the question of providing compensation in cases similarly outside the terms of the Army Pensions Act. In the event of future legislation making such provision, Mr. Smith's claim will receive my best attention.
A claim made by Mr. Smith under the Military Service Pensions Act, 1924, is at present under investigation, and the necessary enquiries are being expedited.