asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries whether he is aware that acute congestion exists in the electoral divisions of Ballindine, Caraun, Claremorris, Crossboyne and Kilvine, and if he will state what steps, if any, are being taken by the Irish Land Commission to acquire the Castle MacGarrett Demesne, which has been let to graziers for the past ten years.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition of the Castle MacGarrett Demesne, Mayo.
As the Deputy has already been informed the Land Commission have fully considered the position as regards the lands at Castle MacGarrett Demesne, the property of Lord Oranmore and Browne, and it is not their present intention to take any action for their acquisition.
Is the Minister aware that there are 200 holdings in the valuation of under £5 within a mile of that estate? Could the Minister give us some further reason as to why the Land Commission does not take that demesne over? These lands have been let to grazing for twenty years and there has been agitation constantly going on to have them acquired by the Land Commission.