asked the Minister for Lands whether he is aware that large tracts of land, suitable for afforestation, are available at Barrahauring, Donoughmore, and at Curraheen, Carrigrohane, County Cork; and, if so, whether the Land Commission will take the necessary steps for their acquisition.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition of Land.
In 1936 there were offers by 13 tenants of a total area of 92 acres at Barrahauring, and about the same time an offer of 300 acres of Barrahauring mountain. The 92 acres lot was too small and too far distant from the nearest forest centre to justify acquisition, and the exposure and unfavourable soil conditions on Barrahauring mountain rendered it quite unsuitable. In 1946 a further area of 84 acres was offered at Barrahauring but the price expected by the owner was far too high.
We have had no offers from the Curraheen and Carrigrohane districts, but if the Deputy will supply me with the names and addresses of the owners of any sizable lots which he thinks would be suitable for acquisition there, I shall have inquiries made without delay. Perhaps he may also be in a position to secure additional offers at Barrahauring, in which case I shall be glad to have the position there re-examined.
Mr. Maguire
asked the Minister for Lands what progress has been made in the negotiations for the acquisition for forestry purposes of the lands (area, 800-900 acres) situated in Strangun, Drumkeerin, County Leitrim, owned by Mr. Hugh Dolan, deceased, and others; and when he expects these negotiations to be successfully completed.
The total area in this district on offer for sale for forestry purposes comes to 350 acres approximately. Two other areas which were formerly on offer have since changed hands and the present owners have indicated that they are not prepared to sell and propose to retain the lands for their own use. The prices asked are, in the main, in excess of the value of the land for forestry purposes, and the areas offered form a long, narrow block which would involve very high costs for fencing in relation to the total area. It is understood, however, that the owner of one block of about 170 acres is prepared to consider sale at a reasonable figure and a valuation and offer will be made at an early date.
Mr. Maguire
asked the Minister for Lands what progress has been made in the negotiations for the acquisition for forestry purposes of lands (area, 1,000 acres) at Aughnasheelin, Bencroy, Ballinamore, County Leitrim; and when he expects the lands to be acquired.
I am unable to trace any offers of land for sale at Aughnasheelin, Ballinamore, as having been received in the Forestry Division. If the Deputy can give me the names and addresses of any persons in that locality who are prepared to sell suitable land I will get into touch with them at once.