asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that Mrs. Florence Murphy, of 57 Mount Drummond Square, Dublin, mother of Gunner John Murphy, aged 21 years, killed in Glen of Imaal explosion, has been refused compensation for his loss, and if he will see that her claim is favourably reconsidered with a view to adequate compensation being paid.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Glen of Imaal Explosion Fatality.
Mr. A. Byrne
I am aware that Mrs. Murphy's claim under the Army Pensions Acts in respect of the death of her son, Gunner John Murphy, has been refused. It is not possible to reconsider the claim as Mrs. Murphy could not be regarded as having been either wholly or mainly dependent on her deceased son.
Mr. A. Byrne
Is the Minister aware that this young man was aged 21 and does he not think that, at 21, he would be of some value to his parents who had expended a considerable sum on his education and had great expectations of him? In view of these circumstances, does he not think that compensation is due to the parents?
I am sure that a pension would be of value if it could be awarded but, unfortunately, it cannot be granted.
Mr. A. Byrne
The circumstances which I mentioned are not to be taken into consideration, although he was aged only 21?