§ 87. Mr. MacVEAGHasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he can say if any compensation has yet been paid from any Government source to the victims of the recent attacks by submarines on county Down fishing boats; if not, whether steps will now be taken towards that end; and whether the Fisheries Board will consider the advisability of remitting the unpaid instalments on the boats sunk or damaged?
§ Mr. SHORTTI am informed that no compensation is payable from naval funds for the loss by enemy action of vessels in private employment, nor, so far as I am aware, are grants made from public funds in respect of such losses. I understand, however, that the Foreign Claims Office keep a record of such cases with a view to the possibility of a claim being made on the enemy Governments at the end of the War, and I would suggest that the hon. Member should communicate with them direct.
§ Mr. MacVEAGHWill the right hon. Gentleman make inquiries with a view to ascertaining whether there is any fund in Ireland from which a grant could be made for this purpose?
§ Mr. JOYCECan these cases be brought within the purview of War Risk Loans and awards be made just as they are made in the case of merchant ships?
§ Mr. SHORTTI suppose my hon. Friend means the insurance scheme?
§ Mr. SHORTTThat question is being examined, but it is not yet decided.
§ Mr. FLAVINIn view of the fact that the right hon. Gentleman is preventing entertainments intended for the benefit of these men from taking place, ought not the Government to undertake the responsibility of looking after the dependants of those who have lost their lives?