asked the Minister for Defence the reasons for the delay in the payment of special allowances to Mr. Denis Bowen, Ballyleary, Cobh, County Cork and Mr. John Collins, Glenanaar, Cobh, both of whom hold service certificates for IRA service, are in poor circumstances and are in a very precarious state of health.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Payment of Cobh Special Allowances.
42.
The persons mentioned are under 70 years of age and it was necessary to have them medically examined, as a condition for the award of a special allowance in such a case is that the applicant be incapable of self-support by reason of permanent infirmity of body or mind. In one case (Denis Bowen) this condition was not fulfilled and consequently the question of an award does not arise. In the other case (John Collins) the applicant fulfilled the condition and an award has been made to him as from 16 Aibreán, 1963.
Mr. Collins's application was received in my Department on 19 Eanáir, 1963. In accordance with the prescribed procedure, it was necessary to obtain a report on his means and also as already stated, to have him medically examined. He was unable to come to Oispedéal Bricin for examination when called, and a Pensions Medical Officer had then to be appointed to examine him locally. In the circumstances, there was no avoidable delay in disposing of the case.
Take the case of Denis Bowen who is an agricultural labourer by trade. Early in 1961, on medical advice, he had to cease work altogether. Early in 1962, he spent six weeks in hospital. By 8th December, 1962, he had been an inmate of the Mercy Hospital, Cork, for some six weeks. He was in the North Infirmary, Cork, from January to 25th March, 1963. I hold here the medical officer's certificate of 19th April, 1963, which certifies that this patient is suffering from gastric ulcers and is totally unfit for work. Would the Minister kindly state in what manner that man is supposed to earn his livelihood?
I am sure the Deputy is aware that all information such as he has mentioned is for assessment by the Army Pensions Board. I am bound to take their decision in the matter.
The evidence is there. The man is completely incapable of work and has been so for the past three years. If you can tell a poor old man who at present is unable to work——
The Deputy is making a speech.
With the permission of the Chair, I shall raise this matter on the Adjournment.
I shall communicate with the Deputy.