asked the Minister for Defence whether he is aware that eight cattle, three of which were the property of James Malynn, three of Michael Brennan, and two of Joseph McGrath, were seized by National forces from the lands of Mr. Matt. Farrell, Ballymore, Westmeath; whether Mr. Farrell rented these lands to the above-mentioned persons for grazing purposes. Further, to ask whether the cattle in question have been sold, and, if so, will these men be compensated, or, if not sold, will the Minister see they are returned.
[ WRITTEN ANSWERS. ] - CATTLE SEIZURES (WESTMEATH).
The cattle referred to in the question were seized by troops, as they were trespassing on lands which have been seized illegally by Mr. Farrell.
About two years ago Mr. Farrell forcibly took possession of these lands. His claim was subsequently adjudicated upon by a District Court in April, 1922, and was rejected. Mr. Farrell's appeal to the Circuit Court was dismissed with costs in June, 1922, and an ejectment decree was executed on Mr. Farrell in August, 1922. Mr. Farrell immediately resumed forcible possession of the lands and retained possession until the lands were again cleared by the military authorities on the 9th ult. There can be no doubt but that Messrs. Malynn, Brennan and McGrath were aware that they could acquire no legal grazing rights on the lands in question from Mr. O'Farrell, and that they were grazing the lands illegally.
The proceeds of the sale of the seized stock will be retained by the military authorities pending a decision by the Dáil on the general question.