asked the Minister for Lands and Agriculture if he will state if it is the intention of the Land Commission to acquire the lands of Ladywell, comprising seventy-two Irish acres, at Glasson, Athlone, the property of Mr. J. Metge, at present in Canada, and whose agent is Mr. R. D. O'Brien, 74 O'Connell street, Limerick; if he is aware that the said lands have been put up for sale on three different occasions, and that the herd, the father of eight children, is under notice to quit from a residence occupied by him on the land, as the lands are about to be again advertised for sale by public auction, and whether, as the lands mentioned are the only lands in the district suitable for distribution, the Land Commission will acquire them at once for the relief of congestion amongst the uneconomic holders in the district.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - DISTRIBUTION OF ATHLONE ESTATE.
SEAN O LAIDHIN
Mr. HOGAN
From the particulars furnished the lands referred to cannot be identified as the subject of proceedings for sale under the Land Purchase Acts. The name "Ladywell" does not appear in the official list of townlands.
Is the Minister aware that there are such lands?
Mr. HOGAN
No, I am not; but if I am given fuller information I will inquire.
Meantime, will the Minister prevent the eviction of this man and his eight children?
Mr. HOGAN
I am sorry that I cannot do anything to prevent an eviction on lands which I cannot locate.