asked the Minister for Defence whether the result of the inquiries promised on the 13th May and the 15th June, 1926, are yet available respecting the claim to compensation for injury to a pony, etc., of Thomas Byrne, Cooleragh, Blackwood, County Kildare; whether he is aware that eleven weeks have now elapsed since the pony was injured, during which period Byrne has been unable to follow his calling, and, in addition, has to pay veterinary surgeon's fees, and whether he will consider the urgency of the case and expedite payment.

I regret that the result of the inquiries is not yet available. I hope, however, to advise the Deputy of the decision at an early date.

Will the Minister expedite the consideration of that claim? It is a shame to keep the man unemployed as he has been for the last two months.

I wonder is the pony getting better yet?

I have a bill in my possession for the veterinary surgeon's fees.

Is the pony able to work?

No. What about the man? I think you ought to deal fairly with this man.