asked the Minister for Defence why no compensation has been awarded to Mrs. Annie Rowley, 2 Grattan Cottages, Grattan Street, Dublin (formerly of 25 Grattan Street), who was knocked down and seriously injured by a motor cycle alleged to have been driven by a military despatch rider on the 13th February, 1924; if he is aware that this woman lost a leg as a result of the accident, that she has a family of six young children, that she had to pay her own medical expenses, including the cost of an artificial limb, and whether in view of these facts he is prepared to recommend the payment of suitable compensation.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - DUBLIN COMPENSATION CLAIM.
Mrs. Rowley's claim was disallowed on the grounds that no evidence was forthcoming to prove that the motor cyclist concerned was a military despatch rider. The matter was fully investigated, and as a result I regret that it is not practicable to make any payment out of Army funds by way of compensation.
I would like to ask the Minister whether it is a fact that at the court of inquiry held in connection with this matter at least eight witnesses gave sworn evidence that it was a military motor cyclist that knocked the woman down?
As far as I remember they merely stated that the man wore leggings and a trench coat. I have no doubt but the Deputy himself has worn leggings and a trench coat, but that does not prove that the Deputy was in the National Army.