asked the Minister for Defence if he will state the cause of the delay in granting a certificate of military service to Volunteer Joseph Cunningham (No. 21718), late D. Company, 8th Battalion, who is at present residing c/o Mr. B. Kelly, High Street, Athlone.

I would refer the Deputy to my replies to his questions regarding this case on the 6th May. I have just received the report of the Board of Assessors on Mr. Cunningham's application for a certificate of military service. Certain inquiries have to be made before I can reach a decision on his application. They will be completed as quickly as possible.