Colonel NEWMAN(by Private Notice)asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether the Irish Government has at its disposal funds through which assistance can be given to those persons in the Southern Provinces who have had their homes burnt or their lands and effects appropriated by order of the Competent Authority of the Irish Republican Army; and, if not, will it endeavour to obtain same?
§ The CHIEF SECRETARY for IRELAND (Colonel Sir Hamar Greenwood)The whole question of outstanding awards against local authorities under the Malicious Injuries Acts will form a proper subject for discussion after the Articles now before Parliament have received ratification.
Colonel NEWMANIn the arrangement or agreement arrived at between Dail Eireann and the British Government, has the subject been mentioned at all? Has any decision been arrived at?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI cannot add anything to the answer I have just given.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWhen the matter of compensation to these people who have had their property destroyed by the Republican Army is being considered, what is going to be done for the people who have had their property destroyed by the forces of the Crown under the reprisals policy? Is that going to be taken into consideration at the same time?
§ Sir H. GREENWOODI think my answer covers that as well.
§ Lieut.-Colonel CROFTIn view of the fact that those who desire to remain under this Parliament are left in Ireland under this Agreement, are the Government going to see that the cost of transport and maintenance and compensation is granted if they desire to leave their country, and to remain under the Imperial Parliament?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThat is the subject of a separate question.
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSWill the Bill that is going to be brought in next Session to deal with this Treaty be able to be amended in order that this question may be dealt with?
§ Mr. SPEAKERI have another question on that point.