asked the Minister for Lands and Agriculture if he is aware that Michael Whelan, Kilkea, Castledermot, Co. Kildare, was evicted from his holding, comprising 18 acres, 3 roods statute, on the lands of Cloney (Verschoyle Estate) in the year 1903; if Mr. Whelan has made several applications to the Land Commission for reinstatement to his farm or for the apportionment to him of part of the Verschoyle Estate, now being divided, and if he will give directions that this man's case should be dealt with without delay.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - REINSTATEMENT OF EVICTED TENANT.
The Commissioners have inquired into and considered Michael Whelan's application for reinstatement and have decided not to take any action in respect thereof.
Will the Minister kindly state why?
Mr. HOGAN
The Land Commission have to take into account the respective merits of the various claims for land. In this case the claimant is a very old man, 80 years of age, I think. I think there is no next-of-kin. The holding from which he was evicted a long time ago is not a valuable holding.
He was evicted in 1903.
Mr. HOGAN
Yes, in 1903. He is a very old man, incapable of working land.
Are there not men seeking reinstatement who were evicted prior to 1903?
Mr. HOGAN
There are, but the Commissioners have to take into consideration a great many other matters as well as the time the evictions took place. They take all the circumstances into consideration, including other applicants.
Is it not the policy of the Minister then to reinstate all evicted tenants?
Mr. HOGAN
Certainly not.