asked the Minister for Defence whether he has received an appeal on behalf of Mrs. Annie Duffy, 138 St. Patrick's Terrace, Clara, Offaly, requesting him to increase the amount of £25 awarded as a gratuity for the loss of her son on active service; whether he is aware that the parents of the deceased were entirely dependent on him, and if he can now state if and to what extent he is prepared to increase the amount already awarded in this case.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - AN OFFALY GRATUITY.
I have at present under consideration representations made by the Deputy as regards the amount of the gratuity paid to Mrs. Duffy in respect of the death of her son. I will communicate my decision in the case to the Deputy at an early date.
I would, however, point out that in addition to the gratuity of £25, sums totalling £55 were paid to Mrs. Duffy from Army Funds after the death of her son. The statement that the parents were entirely dependent on the deceased is not borne out by the investigations which have been made.