asked the Minister for Finance whether he is aware that Mr. William O'Connell, of Ballinrostig, Whitegate, Co. Cork, was granted an award of £145 in August, 1924, for hay, straw, mangolds, etc., maliciously burned in December, 1922; whether Mr. O'Connell was told some months ago that he would be paid his compensation in a very short time; if he will state what is the cause of delaying payment of the claim, and whether settlement of same will be expedited.

I understand that this claim was heard in October (not August), 1924, but the Judge's decree has not yet been lodged in my Department. Until the decree is received no payment can be made. I have no record of any such promise as that referred to in the second part of the question.

Members of the Civic Guard stated that they thought it would be paid very soon.

They were optimistic.