asked the Minister for Lands whether it is intended to permit the Edenderry plotholders (Ball estate) to retain their plots for purely agricultural purposes; and, if so, if he will state the cause of the delay in renewing lettings for this purpose, or whether it is the intention of the Land Commission to dispose of any portion of the plots for the purpose of building private houses thereon.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Retention of Edenderry Plots.
Mr. Boland
The Land Commission allotted to the Edenderry Town Commissioners, as trustees for pasturage pursuant to the provisions of Sections 4 and 20 of the Land Act, 1903, a parcel of untenanted land, containing 17a. 2r. 20p., situate at Monasteroris, Offaly. An application has been received in the Land Commission from a private individual, but endorsed by the Edenderry Town Commissioners, for a portion (comprising three acres) of the parcel, for the purpose of a poultry farm and the erection of a dwelling-house. Applications from two other persons have also been received for this plot of three acres. The matter is at present under consideration by the Land Commission with a view to an arrangement in the interests of all the parties concerned.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, is it a fact that those plots were originally allocated for purely agricultural purposes, and will the Minister give a reasonable assurance that the plotholders who have been working their plots properly, and for which plots they have paid rent, will not be disturbed by any rearrangement?
Mr. Boland
I am quite certain that the Land Commission will have regard to the way in which the plots have been worked.
But is it not a fact that these plots were originally allocated for purely agricultural purposes?
Mr. Boland
I understand so.
If so, why give some of the plots for private building purposes?
Mr. Boland
Well, of course, it may be that all the plots were not properly worked. I cannot speak as to that, however. That is a matter for the Land Commission, and I feel sure that they will have due regard to the manner in which the plots were worked.
Can the Minister give me an assurance that those plotholders who are waiting this year, and who have been working their plots properly, will not be disturbed?
Mr. Boland
The Deputy knows that I am not in a position to give that assurance. He knows that it is the Land Commission that decides that. However, I imagine that the people who have been working the plots properly will be allowed to continue.
If the Minister looks up the file, he will find out that this thing has been pending since last November.
Mr. Boland
Well, I shall have the matter looked into, but I cannot give any assurance.