asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that 56 ex-members of the Defence Forces are being deprived of their pensions because their families remain in possession of married quarters in various military barracks in Dublin, due to the fact that they cannot get alternative housing accommodation; and, if so, if he will state under what regulation subsidies are refused to the Dublin Corporation towards the cost of building houses for these men who have served their country for over 21 years.

I am aware that payment of pensions to some former members of the Defence Forces has been deferred while they continue to overhold married quarters in military barracks. The matter has been the subject of prolonged correspondence with the Dublin Corporation and the Department of Defence. The Housing (Amendment) Act of 1948, and the Housing (Management and Letting) Regulations, 1950, prescribe the priorities to be observed in the letting of local authority houses. A subsidy can be paid only in respect of houses let in accordance with the regulations. The position is that the tenants in question may be eligible for rehousing by the corporation, but are not entitled to a priority over others whose circumstances may, in the view of the corporation, demand earlier rehousing.