asked the Minister for Defence if he will introduce proposals for legislation to amend the Army Pensions Acts so that persons whose applications for military service pensions have been refused and who have since applied for and been awarded a service medal will be rendered eligible to receive a special allowance, provided they fulfil the other statutory conditions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Pensions Acts.
I have no proposals for such legislation under consideration at the present time.
Does the Minister not think that the one application should cover the applications for a medal and a special allowance?
It was and still is my own view, but the Act lays it down that 5th August, 1954, was the last date for applying, and, if that date is to be changed, there must be an amendment of the Act.
Does the Minister not think that the one application should cover the two?
I did think so, but egally it does not.
Would the Minister accept an amendment to that effect?