§ 21. Major O'NEILLasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland what steps he is taking to expedite the provision of cottages and plots for ex-service men in Ireland who have applied for them?
§ The ATTORNEY-GENERAL for IRELAND (Mr. Denis Henry)The question whether any amending legislation or change in administrative procedure is necessary in order to expedite the working of the Irish Land (Provision for Sailors and Soldiers) Act, 1919, is at present having my earnest consideration.
§ Major O'NEILLAre we to understand that the present machinery has broken down?
§ Mr. HENRYNo, Sir; but it has been found that the tenders which have been put in for the erection of the various cottages are out of all proportion to the sum considered necessary for the purpose of erecting them.
§ Major O'NEILLCan the right hon. Gentleman say whether, if this legislation is to be introduced, it will be brought in immediately, because this question is one of very great importance to the ex-service men in Ireland, and there has been unaccountable delay?
§ Mr. HENRYObviously it would be impossible to introduce legislation this 1409 Session, but the Chief Secretary is most anxious that everything should be done that is possible in the interests of these men.
87. Captain TERRELLasked the Minister of Labour what steps he is taking to press the settlement of ex-service men on the land on the Ministry of Agriculture?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI have been in close touch during the last few months with my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture with regard to this matter. I am informed that the Ministry of Agriculture have now received a further Treasury grant for their Land Settlement Schemes, and that this grant will be available for the settlement of suitable disabled ex-service men now under training, as well as for other applicants.