asked the Minister for Fisheries if he is aware that a considerable period has elapsed since the lands known as the Douglas Ranch, Newtownforbes, County Longford, were taken over by the Land Commission; and if he will now take the necessary steps to have those lands handed over to the selected uneconomic holders so as to enable them to commence tillage operations this spring.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - DOUGLAS RANCH (LONGFORD).
The lands referred to are certain tenanted holdings on the estate of H.M.S. Douglas, County Longford, for which the appointed day was fixed on the 10th ult. under the Land Act, 1923.
The holdings, which are twelve in number, have been retained under the Act, and the proceedings necessary to enable the Land Commission to resume these holdings are being taken.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary give us an assurance that these uneconomic holders will get the land in time to enable them to carry out tillage operations?
The Land Commission cannot enter into possession of the holding until the resumption proceedings are completed, and it is difficult to forecast how long the proceedings will take.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that those lands have been the subject of considerable agitation for at least 20 years—as far back as 1908—and that general dissatisfaction exists in the County Longford due to the delay in taking over those lands?
That is the case in connection with a great many lands.
In view of the answer generally, I desire to give notice that I will raise this question on the Adjournment.
Deputy Coburn has already given notice that he will raise a matter on the adjournment arising out of Question 10, and I am afraid, in the circumstances, we cannot entertain Deputy Connolly's notice.
Could he not raise it at a party meeting?
Where all the business is done.
He would not get publicity there.
When does the Deputy hold his party meeting?