HC Deb 13 February 1919 vol 112 cc256-7
22. Sir ROBERT WOODS

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, whether steps have been taken to secure similar facilities and pecuniary assistance to ex-Service officers and men in Ireland for university and other higher educational training as have been provided in England, Wales, and Scotland?

64. Sir EDWARD CARSON

also asked whether the arrangements for interim grants to ex-Service students announced last month apply to ex-Service students who desire to pursue their education or training in institutions in Ireland; and to-whom in such cases application should be made?

The ATTORNEY-GENERAL for IRELAND (Mr. Arthur Samuels)

The answer is in the affirmative. Corresponding arrangements have been made for Ireland, and will, it is hoped, be announced in to-morrow's newspapers. Applications should be addressed to the Education Officer, Appointments Department, Ministry of Labour, 64 and 65, Merrion Square, South Dublin.

Colonel McCALMONT

Will my right hon. and learned Friend say whether this, is a new decision?

Mr. SAMUELS

I do not understand what is meant by a new decision. The arrangements were made as quickly as possible. The difficulty arose on account of there being no Education Department for Ireland as there is in the case of England and Scotland. But there has been no delay that could possibly be avoided.

Captain REDMOND

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that several applications have already been made from Ireland, and that the answer has been "No Irish need apply''?

Mr. SAMUELS

I am not aware of any such answer having been sent. If any Irishmen do apply arrangements are made to deal with the cases expeditiously.

Mr. DEVLIN

When will the Scottish Minister for Ireland be in his place to give us this information?