HC Deb 25 July 1912 vol 41 cc1370-1W
Mr. CHARLES CRAIG

asked how many pension officers are members of the Clare County Council; and by whom were they appointed pension officers?

Mr. MASTERMAN

I am not aware that any pension officer are members of the Clare County Council; but I will make further inquiry and communicate with the hon Member. Officers of Customs and Excise act as pension officers by virtue of a Treasury Minute of 2nd October, 1908, under Section 8 (4) of the Old Age Pensions Act, 1908.

Dr. O'NEILL

asked why the Local Government Board refused to confirm the old age pension granted to Patrick M'Nuly, of Crievekeeran, Crossmaglen, county Armagh, by the Crossmaglen pension subcommittee on 9th April, 1912?

Mr. BIRRELL

This man's claim was disallowed by the Local Government Board, as they were satisfied that his yearly means exceed £31 10s.

Mr. BOLAND

asked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that, at a meeting of the Caher old age pensions committee on 18th April, the pension officer awarded Michael and Johanna Daly, Kimegs, near Cahirciveen, a pension of 3s. each; that the committee, who knew the circumstances of the claimants better than the pension officer, awarded a pension of 4s. each; that on an appeal by the pension officer the Local Government Board declined to give any pension at all; and whether he will have inquiry made into all the facts of the case, in view of the action of the Board in overruling the award of their own pension officer?

Mr. BIRRELL

The facts generally are as stated in the question. These cases came before the Local Government Board on appeal, when it was decided that the means of the claimants, as calculated under the Old Age Pensions Acts, were in excess of the statutory limit. Pension officers are not under the control of the Local Government Board.