asked the Minister for Supplies if he has received any complaints as to the high charges for turf banks in County Offaly, and whether his Department has regulations in dealing with excessive charges for turf banks to tenants; if he is aware in particular of the banks on Moragh Bog, Ballycumber, which are now set at 10/- per perch, and which were set for 2/6 per perch before the emergency and prior to the taking over of this bog by Offaly County Council; and if he will consider proposing the reduction of the charges in this case.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Co. Offaly Turf Bank Charges.
One complaint regarding excessive charges for turbary rights in Offaly has been received in my Department and is being investigated. As to the regulations dealing with excessive charges, I would refer the Deputy to the provisions of Emergency Powers (No. 297) Order, 1943. Moragh Bog is vested in the Offaly County Council and I understand that no complaints as to excessive rents have been made to the county manager by any of the persons to whom lettings have been made. From inquiries which I have caused to be made I am satisfied that the rents charged are not, in fact, excessive.