§ 20. Mr. F. MEEHANasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether he is aware that certain of the Irish national teachers who were compelled to retire on small pensions based on pre-war scales and conditions were compelled to apply for outdoor relief or otherwise become a burden on the ratepayers; and whether, having regard to their services, their present condition 1586 in their old age, and the increased cost of living, together with the fact that all Civil servants' demands for a war bonus have been granted, their just claim to a war bonus would be favourably considered?
§ Mr. SAMUELSMy right hon. Friend is not aware that any retired national teachers have had to apply for outdoor relief. Civil servants in receipt of pensions based on pre-war salaries have not had their pensions increased. The principle is one of wide application, and it is not practicable to consider separately the claims of any particular class of pensioners.