asked the Minister for Lands whether he is aware that a large amount of land is held by the Marquis of Sligo in the vicinity of Westport town; and, if so, whether in view of the acute congestion in County Mayo he will acquire portion of these lands for the relief of congests in the county.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Mayo Congestion.
The Land Commission have no proceedings on hands for the acquisition of the Marquis of Sligo's demesne or woodlands near Westport.
Is it the intention of the Land Commission to commence proceedings for resumption in respect of these lands?
My information is that there is not much suitable arable land on that demesne and that there are about 100 whole-time employees on the estate. If those employees were to be given a holding each, to which they would be entitled out of the estate, I am afraid there would not be enough land to go around.
Is the Minister aware that there are upwards of 500 acres of arable land on that estate?
I am not aware of that and I doubt very much if that is so.
Will the Minister make inquiries into the matter?
As a result of the Deputy's questions, I will have the whole matter re-examined because it is some time since it was examined.