asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries to state whether any offer has so far been made for the leased and untenanted lands of Lord Castletown, Granstown, Ballacolla, Co. Leix; and, if so, whether same has been accepted; also if he can state when these lands are likely to be divided.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Co. Leix Lands.
The question of the acquisition of the lands referred to is still under consideration by the Land Commission.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary say how many reports he has had from his inspectors; how many he has received altogether and how many more he will require to receive before he can give this final consideration?
I have not said a word about reports. The Deputy is aware that considerable difficulties and delays arose and that in order to resolve these difficulties it was necessary to have a number of reports, not alone from our inspectors, but from our surveyors as well. These difficulties have been arising there from time to time and our inspectors and surveyors have had to report on them.
May I ask the Parliamentary Secretary if he is aware that portions of the leased lands are being sold by public auction, and will he say how far the final decision of the Commissioners will be affected by the owners selling these lands by public auction?
In no way will the sale by public auction affect the matter. The Land Commission will still have the same right to acquire these lands.