asked the President if he will state when it is proposed to introduce the proposals for legislation necessary to secure the de-rating of agricultural land.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - De-rating of Agricultural Land.
The policy of the Government in this matter was announced in the House last November. It has since been stated outside the House and approved by the electors. As the Deputy does not appear to have understood, I may again inform him that it is not proposed to increase the amount available for the de-rating of agricultural land. The Government proposes instead to reduce by one-half all land purchase annuities and other annual payments under the Land Purchase Acts. This concession will cost the State considerably more than the sum that would be required to complete de-rating, and it will be of proportionately greater advantage to the agricultural population.
Arising out of the President's reply, it would appear that the Government have definitely abandoned the policy of de-rating which was preached in the country throughout 1932. It is now definitely abandoned.
We have definitely changed from de-rating and we have decided instead to give a remission of one-half of the Land Annuities, which will be of greater advantage to the agricultural community.
Is the President really aware of the conditions existing in the country? Does he know that less than 50 per cent. of the rates for the current year have been collected and that the amount that is uncollected is really uncollectable?
We will see.
The battering ram!
Is the President aware that this will be the cause of grave injustice amongst the members of the farming community? The farmers are not prepared to accept this substitute which is offered as being just as good as de-rating. The farmers will insist on social justice.
It is poor solace to the farmers who have had their markets taken away.
Is the Deputy asking a supplementary question?
I have certain comments to make upon the question, but I have not an opportunity now of making them. An opportunity will come, however, when we put the President in the dock.
You tried that before.