asked the Minister for Defence if he will state what compensation has been granted to the members of the National Army who were injured as a result of the explosion which occurred in the Glen of Imaal, County Wicklow, on the 16th September, 1941; and if he will particularly refer to the prospects for the future of the three men who were totally blinded and one of whom was also partially disabled, and whether he is prepared to make a special grant for the training of these men in occupations suitable to blind persons in order to enable them to earn a decent living.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Soldiers' Compensation.
The only members of the Defence Forces discharged from the Army as a result of the explosion at the Glen of Imaal are three men who were rendered totally blind and they are in receipt of the maximum pensions applicable in their cases under the provisions of the Army Pensions Act, 1927. The question of making a special grant for the training of these men in suitable occupations is under active consideration. They are at present being maintained free of charge at St. Bricin's Hospital and are receiving initial instructions from a competent teacher of the blind.