asked the Minister for Lands whether, in view of the fact that a forestry centre is now being established at Glencar, he will instruct his Department to develop afforestation schemes in Glenbeigh, Caragh Lake, Kilgobinet and Beaufort districts at the earliest possible date.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Kerry Forestry Centres.
Caragh Lake.—As soon as the Lickeen area is acquired it is my intention, to acquire, if possible, further areas adjoining it in the townlands of Drombane and Cosha South. Investigations already made have disclosed that there is a further area of 650 acres approximately in these townlands which would be suitable for State forestry purposes. Most of the tenants, however, do not appear to be disposed to sell for cash or to surrender the land unless given other land in exchange and so the building up of a large forest unit in the district will be slow and will probably in a large measure depend on the Land Commission being in a position to provide the tenants with alternative holdings.
Glenbeigh.—I have already negotiated successfully for the purchase of a block of 97 acres which can be worked in with the main block at Lickeen and another offer of 100 acres at Lyranes is listed for inspection. The land in this district is eminently suitable for planting but prescriptive claims to grazing will render acquisition very difficult.
Kilgobnet and Beaufort.—I have not had any offers of land from these districts but I will be very pleased to consider the acquisition of any suitable areas which may be offered. Perhaps the Deputy could indicate where areas are available for offer and the forestry division will approach the owners.
May I ask the Minister if I succeed in getting the people of Kilgobnet and Beaufort districts to offer land for afforestation schemes, will he give an assurance that that area of land can be developed from the Glencar centre?
If sufficient land is offered in the Kilgobnet and Beaufort districts and there is a reasonable prospect of establishing a forestry centre on its own there, it may be possible to do so in time but not in the near future. It is hoped to join the two forests eventually across the country.