asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that Patrick Blackbourne, Killucan, Co. Westmeath, was arrested by National troops on March 1st, 1923, and detained in Mullingar—without charge or trial being preferred against him—until the evening of April 2nd, 1923; further, whether he is aware that Mr. Blackbourne is an employee of the M.G.W.R., and was not allowed to resume work for three weeks after his release; and, further, during the period of his detention he lost in wages and wearables £24 2s. 6d. To ask the Minister whether he will consider the question of compensation to this man in view of the fact of no charge being proved against him.

Mr. Blackbourne was arrested and detained as stated. It is not possible to entertain a claim for compensation in a case of this sort.