asked the Minister for Lands if he will state, in connection with the proposed forestry scheme at Lickeen, Glencar, County Kerry, what was the result of the offer to purchase made to the head landlord concerned by his Department and, if the result was not satisfactory, if he will take steps to have the lands acquired for afforestation purposes.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Glencar Forestry Scheme.
The owner has not yet given a definite reply to the offer for the purchase of these lands. If the reply proves unsatisfactory compulsory acquisition proceedings will be considered.
Is the Minister aware that this scheme has been under consideration for some years and at one stage his Department was contemplating compulsory acquisition? Will he make another effort to bring this matter to a conclusion at an early date? It is regarded by many people as too much of a joke on the part of the Department to be postponing this from month to month.
The Deputy is not correct in saying that compulsory acquisition was initiated, but dropped.
It was contemplated.
They are now contemplating it, for this reason, that the offer made to the owner has fallen on deaf ears—I understand that the owner has not been in this country for some time past. If that offer is not replied to, we will definitely consider compulsory methods of acquisition.