asked the Minister for Lands if he will state (a) if it is the intention of the Irish Land Commission to acquire the lands known as the Ffrench Estate, Monivea, Athenry, County Galway; (b) the acreage of the lands to be acquired; (c) if it is the intention of the Land Commission to acquire any further lands in the district to provide economic holdings for the tenants in the area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition of Galway Lands.
The Land Commission have instituted proceedings for the acquisition of 133 acres of the lands of Monivea Demesne on the Ffrench Estate. The question of the acquisition of further land in the district depends on its suitability for the purposes of the Land Commission.
Mr. Brodrick
Is the Parliamentary Secretary not aware that there are 108 families in that district who live on land, the rental of which is £378 per annum? Is he not further aware that some of the valuations there are as low as £2, and will he not have an inspection carried out as soon as possible in that area? I am in a position to know that there are other lands there that can be acquired for distribution.
An inspection has been carried out on a total area of 1,141 acres, but the vast portion of that land is considered unsuitable for division amongst the people referred to.
Mr. Brodrick
The lands I referred to are lands distinct from those at Monivea. I refer to the Ryehill and the Bellville Estates.