asked the Minister for Fisheries whether the lands of Mrs. Mary Maher, at Moyvoughly, County Westmeath, have been divided by the Land Commission, and, if not, for what reason.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - DIVISION OF WESTMEATH LANDS.
The lands of Moyvoughly referred to are tenanted lands on the estate of Ellen O'Donoghue, held by Mrs. Maher, subject to a judicial rent. The Land Commission have retained the holding, and are taking the steps necessary to enable them to resume some 800 acres thereof, but the proceedings have not yet reached the stage of which they will be able to take possession of the lands.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the Russell lands in this locality were in agitation at the same period as the Maher lands? These Russell lands were inspected at the same time by the Land Commission inspector, and were since acquired by a private individual who already holds two farms, much to the disappointment of the small holders in the neighbourhood. Will the Parliamentary Secretary state that a similar fate will not overtake the Maher lands, as there are rumours going around to the effect that these lands are to be divided between three relatives of Mrs. Maher?
I do not know to what lands the Deputy is referring. The Land Commission is proceeding with the acquisition of 800 acres, according to the procedure laid down in the Land Acts.