asked the Minister for Lands whether he is aware that acute congestion exists in the townlands of Cloghermore, Drimshinnagh, Cloondinnaire, Coolmakean and Gortgarve, County Mayo; that a farm, the property of Luke Dillon, Claremorris, County Mayo, was recently sold to a private buyer against the wishes of the local people, many of whom have, for years past, been endeavouring to secure holdings, and if he will state if the Land Commission will take steps to acquire this farm and redistribute it among the local landless men and uneconomic holders.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition of Claremorris Farm.
There are no proceedings at present for the acquisition of the lands of Garrowmarley, Claremorris, County Mayo, which were purchased some years ago from Mr. Luke Dillon, but the Deputy's representations in the matter have been noted for consideration.
Could the Minister say if this is vested land?
I do not know. I will inform the Deputy.
Is not the Minister aware that prior to the sale of this land, agitation existed in the area in connection with which the local police force had to take certain steps; that the purchaser of this land has a large farm somewhere in the Midlands, and that there is considerable congestion in existence, and will the Minister's Department take steps to prevent the sale and to have the land divided?
I cannot undertake to prevent the free sale of land. I am aware that there is very definite congestion, but, very definitely again, congestion will not be cured by any form of intimidation.
But it has succeeded.
Is it the policy of the Farmers' Party to prevent the free sale of land?
No, but land division has been the policy of Fianna Fáil as preached from every platform.
Question No. 27.
And the Minister himself—
The Deputy must have a sense of order.
I was interrupted.
Question No. 27.