asked the Minister for Defence whether a claim was received from Michael Butler, Deerpark, Boyle, for an injury, by a military motor lorry at Deerpark, Boyle, to a cow, his property, on the 2nd day of October, 1930; whether such claim was heard at a Military Inquiry at Athlone; whether he can state the result of such inquiry; and whether he is aware that the officer presiding at the inquiry refused to allow Mr. Denis Hannon, solicitor, Athlone, to plead on behalf of Mr. Butler; and whether he will state if this is the usual procedure in such cases.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Co. Roscommon Man's Claim.
The reply to the first part of the question is in the affirmative. A Military Court of Inquiry duly investigated the matter. I am obtaining legal advice on the information now available and will communicate with claimant's solicitor at an early date. I am aware that Mr. Denis Hannon, solicitor. Athlone, was not permitted to appear on behalf of Mr. Butler. A solicitor has no right of audience before a Military Court of Inquiry. As a matter of courtesy a solicitor may be heard if it is considered that any help might be given to the court in arriving at a conclusion. In this case the officer presiding at the court acted within his discretion.
Could the Minister state the date on which the inquiry was held at Athlone?
I am not able to tell.
For the Minister's information, I would like to point out that it was held three months ago. If it has taken three months to get all the information that is available, will the Minister state definitely when the thing will be settled one way or the other?