asked the Minister for Local Government if he will state the reasons for delay in implementing the rural labourers' cottage scheme in Tipperary South Riding; and if he will take steps to have the scheme expedited, so that applicants will be given possession of plots during next winter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Rural Labourers' Cottage Scheme.
The delay in implementing the rural cottages scheme in Tipperary South Riding area was due to legal difficulties in connection with acquisition of sites under the Tipperary South Riding Compulsory Purchase (Labourers Acts) Order, 1947, which was confirmed by me on the 10th May, 1949, with certain modifications. This Order as confirmed provides for the acquisition of sites for 630 cottages in the county. As house plans have been approved and tenders invited by the council for some of the cottages, there should now be no delay in commencing this scheme. In regard to giving possession of plots to applicants, I understand from the local authority that no plots will be let until the cottages are erected thereon.