asked the Minister for Defence whether an inquiry has been held into the circumstances attending the wounding of Patrick Mulrennan of Lisacul, Ballaghaderreen, on 6th October, 1922, while a prisoner in Custume Barracks, Athlone, and who died some weeks later at the Curragh; and, if so, what was the nature of the inquiry, and what were its findings; and whether he is prepared to recommend compensation to the widowed mother of the deceased prisoner.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - DEATH OF PRISONER.
I understand that a coroner's inquest was held to investigate the circumstances of Patrick Mulrennan's death. The inquest appears to have been adjourned on three occasions and to have arrived at no definite finding.
I regret that a claim for compensation could not be entertained as a charge against Army funds.
Does the Minister assert that the State has no responsibility for the safe custody of its prisoners?
What I said was that I could not entertain a charge against Army funds.
Is the Minister aware that Patrick Mulrennan died of wounds as a result of a shot fired by an officer of the National Army in Custume Barracks, Athlone?
I understand that there was a state of mutiny there —a state of active mutiny—and that this man and others were warned that unless they behaved themselves they would be shot.
That is not the fact. I submit that this is a question that needs to be investigated. It has been admitted that the coroner's inquest had to be adjourned on three occasions. This man and his brother, who was killed at the time, were the main support of their widowed mother, who is now in a state of poverty. I think, in view of the compensation that has been awarded to other people, and who are far less deserving, that this is a case for investigation, and that the Minister should not brush it aside so lightly.
In view of the unsatisfactory answer given by the Minister, I beg to give notice that I will raise this question on the motion for the Adjournment this evening.