asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware of the dissatisfaction that exists amongst old members of the I.R.A. because of the delay in dealing with their applications for pensions; whether he proposes to take steps to accelerate the consideration of these applications; and, if so, whether he will state the steps which he proposes taking.

The answer to the first part of the Deputy's question is in the affirmative. As regards the second part, I wish to state that every effort has been made to speed up the investigation of claims consistent with the efficient carrying out of a very difficult task. Within the past year the staff of the referee's office has been augmented and the output of decisions greatly increased.

When does the Minister hope to have these claims finally disposed of?

Possibly on the day of the Resurrection.

Will it be within the lifetime of some of the applicants?

Is the Minister aware that some of these men were called up in connection with their applications 12 months ago and no decision has yet been reached in their cases?

That was before the election.

Is the Minister aware that many men who are in a state of destitution find it extremely difficult to have their cases heard, while persons who are not in needy circumstances are apparently easily able to get decisions on their claims?

They will all be heard before the general election that will take place probably next February.

If the energies of Deputies, instead of being directed towards criticising the staff of the referee's office, who are endeavouring to deal as quickly as possible with the investigation of claims, were directed in a more helpful manner, more progress might be made.

I am aware that in my county alone many men have been brought before the board and no decision has yet been reached on their claims, although repeated applications have been made. People much less in need of attention have had their claims dealt with, while those who are really needy have not got anything.

I would like to look into the circumstances.

Will the Minister indicate what an applicant is expected to do? I got a letter recently from a man who was before the board about a year and a half ago and he has not heard anything since.

Probably he would do better if he were a secretary of a Fianna Fáil club.