asked the Minister for Local Government whether, with reference to reply given by the Minister for Agriculture on 20th June, 1923, it is intended to introduce an Allotments Bill during the present session of An Dáil; whether such Bill would apply only to the larger urban centres, as indicated, and whether he considers it expedient that the administration of allotments should be undertaken by separate Government Departments.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. [ ORAL ANSWERS. ] - ALLOTMENTS BILL.
It is not proposed to introduce a general Allotments Bill this session. Pending the passing of such a measure, steps have been taken to secure the interests of all existing plot-holders.
The provision of allotments must necessarily be dealt with in Acts of Parliament relating both to land and to the functions of local authorities. No administrative difficulty is likely to arise.
May I ask the Minister whether he gave any promise to the Allotment Holders' Union that a Bill would be introduced this session?
It is not possible, in view of the congestion of business, and the various difficulties that have been encountered in drafting the Bill, to have anything done this session.
Mr. BYRNE
That is not an answer to my question; it is an evasion. Was there any promise made to the Allotment Holders' representatives that a Bill would be introduced?
I have no recollection of meeting the representatives of the Allotment Holders.