asked the Minister for Finance if he will state when it is proposed to introduce the Supplementary Estimate to provide for the payment of pensions to the resigned and dismissed Royal Irish Constabulary men.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Resigned and Dismissed R.I.C. Men.
A Supplementary Estimate will be introduced at the earliest practicable date after completion of the Departmental examination referred to in my reply to the Deputy's question of the 28th ultimo.
Do I take it that that will mean that the Estimate will be introduced before the Dáil adjourns?
I would not like the Deputy to take that at all, because a considerable number of inquiries have to be made into each case, and it is only when it is ascertained that they do come within the terms of the Order that we will be able to compute the total amount required for the Supplementary Estimate.
In any case, I take it the Estimate will be introduced and such pensions as are recommended paid this year?
Such pensions as have been recommended—I would not say that either, because there are one or two cases where under the existing law we could not pay the pensions, but in the case of those people entitled to pensions, every effort will be made to have the Supplementary Estimate introduced in time to provide them with pensions during this year.
Will an Estimate also be introduced for providing with pensions all persons who refrained from ever joining the R.I.C.?
I do not see how that arises.
That is a separate question.