asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries what progress, if any, has been made since 29th November, 1928, towards the acquisition and subdivision of the lands of Aughrim, held by Patrick J. Fitzmaurice, Elphin, on the estate of B.A. Fox, Counties Westmeath, Roscommon and Cavan; whether an attempt has been made to show that this farm is being utilised for stud purposes, and whether he can give a definite assurance that this farm will be acquired by the Land Commission and subdivided amongst neighbouring uneconomic holders.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Lands of Aughrim.
The holding of P.J. Fitzmaurice in the townland of Aughrim, on the estate of B.A. Fox, was included in a Schedule of Particulars lodged by the owner under the Land Act, 1923, and was published in a list of holdings to be retained by the Land Commission on the Appointed Day. Notice of the intention of the Land Commission to take proceedings for its resumption was issued to the tenant, who has lodged an objection on the grounds that this farm is being used for the breeding of thoroughbred stock. Arrangements are being made for the hearing of the objection by the Land Commission at an early date.
May I draw the attention of the Minister to the fact that Mr. Fitzmaurice has about 500 acres of land in other parts and that this attempt to show that this is a stud farm is simply a hoax? I would like to point out to the Minister that there is only one brood mare on the whole farm, and that is the attempt to set it up as a stud farm.