asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether he will state the reason for the non-completion of the division of the lands known as Ballykip (Sligo estate), Louisburgh district, Co. Mayo, amongst the uneconomic holders of the district; whether he is aware that this is one of the most congested areas in the County Mayo, and whether he will instruct the Land Commission to take immediate steps to remedy this state of affairs.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - DIVISION OF MAYO LANDS.
This townland forms portion of the estate of Lord Sligo purchased by the late Congested Districts Board.
The Land Commission is aware of the congestion existing in the townland of Ballakip. Owing to the small area of untenanted land available and the necessity for the rearrangement of the holdings on this and other townlands on the estate, the Land Commission have been unable to proceed with the resale. It will be proceeded with as soon as circumstances permit.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that this matter has been in the hands of the Land Commission for at least ten or twelve years and that nothing has been done? Will he state when steps will be taken to remedy it?
It is necessary, in the first place, to prepare a scheme for the rearrangement of the existing holdings. An effort will be made also to acquire some additional land in order to carry out satisfactory arrangements.