HC Deb 03 April 1911 vol 23 cc1954-5W
Mr. NANNETTI

asked the Secretary to the Treasury whether his attention has been called to the case of ex-Constable Cronin, of the Dublin Metropolitan Police, who was so seriously injured in the discharge of his duty on 4th May last that he has since been compulsorily retired from the service; whether he is aware that this man, whose injuries necessitate the amputation of his right leg, has been offered a pension of 6s. weekly, subsequently raised to 8s. weekly after protest by the injured man; whether he is aware that the police authorities have issued, and continue to issue, a circular promising to intending recruits a full pension in the case of serious injury; and whether, in all the circumstances of the case, he will have the matter fully inquired into?

Mr. GILHOOLY

asked the Chief Secretary whether his attention has been called to the case of Constable Cronin, Dublin Metropolitan Police, who, while on duty at Clontarf in charge of waggons of the Great Northern Railway Company, was knocked down by a train and received injuries, in consequence of which his right leg was amputated; whether he is aware that one of the conditions agreed on between candidates for the Dublin Metropolitan Police and the authorities in Dublin Castle is that, in case of injury sustained in the execution of his duty, he may be awarded full pay; and, in view of the fact that Constable Cronin was only awarded £21 pension, will he look into his case and see that further consideration is given to it?

Mr. BIRRELL

My attention has been called to the case of Constable Cronin. The statement in the circular referred to must be taken subject to the requirements of the law, which only allows full pay to be awarded in a case other than a case of accidental injury. I think this ought to be made plainer in the circular. The pension granted to Cronin is the highest which the law allows in the particular circumstances of his case. I have already inquired fully into the matter, and, while sympathising with this man in his misfortune, I do not see how anything more can be done for him.