asked the Minister for Defence if, in view of the undertaking given by him on 16th November, 1955, he is now in a position to state when he will introduce legislation to amend the Military Service Pensions (Amendment) Act, 1953.

The question of amendment of the Pensions Acts has been under consideration for some time. I am glad to be in a position to state that the Government has now decided to introduce with all speed the necessary legislation to amend the Acts to provide for an extension of the date to enable members of the organisations mentioned in the Acts to apply for the award of a 1916 Service Medal or Service (1917-1921) Medal as the case may be. The award of the medal will entitle holders to apply for a special allowance if the occasion arises.

The required legislation will if possible be introduced in the present session of the Dáil or if this is not feasible in the early stages of the next session.