asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of the damage done to property by the exploding of the stump of Nelson Pillar by the Army; and by whom compensation will be paid to the property owners.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Nelson Pillar.
19.
Claims for damage to property attributable to the demolition by the Army Corps of Engineers are being processed in the first instance by Dublin Corporation. I am not, therefore, in a position to give an estimate of the cost of the damage at this stage. As already announced, compensation in respect of this damage will be met from the Exchequer.
Can the Minister say what is the authority for the payment by the State of such compensation?
That seems to be a separate question.
The Government will seek the appropriate authority, if necessary.
Are we to understand that at the moment the Government are of the opinion that they have not got this authority?
I said, "if necessary".
Will the Minister say how he can justify the blowing up of the centre of Dublin city and doing this reckless and unnecessary damage?
This question deals with the estimated cost of the damage.
The Government cannot even pay for the running of the country such as it is at the moment.
I would prefer to go to the expense of blowing it up than pay compensation to some unfortunate dependant.
Is the Minister aware that this was not a dangerous structure, and that it had been so declared?
That is a separate question. The Deputy is getting away from the question on the Order Paper. That does not arise on Question No. 19.
Can anyone tell us what was blown up last night?
A Deputy
The Government are practising for the next explosion.
They are blowing up the country now.
Would you allow this as a supplementary question to the Minister for Justice, Sir? Can anyone tell us what blew up last night?
That does not arise.