asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that Mr. Joseph Teague, Dock Cottage, Abbeyshrule, Mullingar, was wounded on the 3rd March, 1923, whilst a member of the National Army, during an attack made on his house; that the pension awarded him under the Army Pensions Act, 1923, was only 16/9 per week, with an additional 4/- for his wife and six children, and whether, as Mr. Teague is permanently disabled, he will have the case re-opened with a view to having the pension increased.

I am aware that Mr. Teague was wounded in the circumstances stated by the Deputy and that he has been awarded a pension of 16/9 weekly with an aditional 4/- as a married man. I am not aware, however, that Mr. Teague is permanently disabled as my medical advisers have reported that his disability is equivalent to 40 per cent. of total disablement. I do not see any reason for re-opening the case.

Is the Minister aware that this man received no fewer than four bullets and that as he is a married man with six children £1 Os. 9d. per week is entirely inadequate for their upkeep? Would it be possible to have the man again brought before a medical board?

No.

Has this man then no redress?

He has got a pension of £1 per week.

One pound per week for a man who was earning £4 10s. per week before joining the Army, and who is now incapable of work as a result of having joined the Army!

He is disabled to the extent of 40 per cent. and no more.

I think you are treating your men very unfairly.