asked the Minister for Posts and Telegraphs why contributory widow's pension book No. 3475048 posted by the Department of Social Welfare on 10th May, 1961, to the General Post Office, Cork, was not handed over to the pensioner until 6th July, 1961.

The book in question was unfortunately mislaid while in the custody of the Post Office. I regret the inconvenience caused to the pensioner and steps are being taken to avoid a recurrence.