asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether he will state if the Land Commission intend to take over this year the lands known as the Poolavaddy Farm, Co. Mayo, on the O'Connor lease portion of the Lynch-Blosse estate; and whether he will state what immediate steps the Land Commission are taking to relieve the acute congestion that exists on this estate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Mayo Lands.
The Land Commission cannot at present state when possession of the lands referred to will be obtained. They are taking the necessary steps to take possession.
asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether he will state when the lands known as the Ballykinava Farm, Ballyhaunis, held by Mr. Martin Curran, will be made available for distribution amongst the uneconomic holders of the district; whether he will state what steps the Land Commission are taking to relieve the acute congestion that exists in this area.
The lands of Ballykinava in this matter are the subject of proceedings under Section 24 (3), Land Act, 1923. As these lands have been purchased under the Land Purchase Acts, the owner has exercised his rights under Section 24 (4) (b) Land Act, 1923, to be provided with a new holding equally suitable and of not less value than his holding in County Mayo.
Negotiations are taking place with a view to the provision of a suitable holding for the owner in lieu of the lands of Ballykinava, but the proceedings for exchange have not yet been completed, and it is not possible to say when the lands may be available for distribution.
Is the Minister aware that the owner got an exchange for this farm last October, and that he is in possession of it and grazing it ever since?
Mr. Curran has got no exchange for this farm. The Deputy is referring to another farm which we took from Mr. Curran some time ago.