asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries if he will state: (1) When the proposed scheme for the distribution of the lands of Castlehill, McCormick Estate, Castlelacken, Ballina, Co. Mayo, will be put into operation; (2) the number of acres to be reserved with the residence on the estate; and (3) whether it is proposed to dispose of same (residence and holding) by public auction.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - McCormick Estate (Co. Mayo).
The lands referred to by the Deputy appear to be those of Mr. J.E. McCormick, situate at Rathfran, otherwise Summerhill, Killala. A scheme for the division of these lands, comprising an area of 296a. 2r. 14p., is at present under the consideration of the Land Commission. It is hoped to divide the lands in question at an early date. At the present stage it is not possible to state what area will be allotted with the residence or how this division will be dealt with.
There is a strong local rumour that portion of those lands are to be sold by the Land Commission by private treaty. I would like to draw the attention of the Minister for Lands and Fisheries to the matter, to the scarcity of land in that area, and to the fact that tenants who have had conacre on these lands for the past fifteen years are prepared to purchase the land, and that objection would be taken to any private sale.
Mr. Hogan
I will draw the Parliamentary Secretary's attention to that point.