§ MR. HAYDEN (Roscommon, S.)To ask the Secretary to the Admiralty whether the attention of the Admiralty has been directed to the case of a man named Gilleran, of H.M.S. "Melampus," who was killed at Athlone Railway Station in January, 1903, in an effort to save the life, of a fellow sailor belonging to the same ship; whether the deceased had spent three years five months in the service of the Navy, and had always borne a good character; and, if so, whether his father will receive any compensation for his loss.
(Answered by Mr. Pretyman.) The Question probably refers to the case of Private T. Gillarian, R.M.L.I., who was killed at Athlone Railway Station on the 13th January, 1904, while on his way to rejoin the "Melampus" from his Christmas leave. The facts of the case do not appear to have been accurately represented to the hon. Member. From the official report it appears that Gillarian and a stoker from the same ship, both under the influence of drink, caught hold of each other and fell off the platform together just as an incoming train was within a few yards of them. The engine passed over Gillarian's neck, but the other man escaped with a slight cut on the face. In the circumstances of the man's death I regret that no compensation can be granted by the Admiralty.