asked the Minister for Defence if he is aware that tenants on his Department's estate at Billeragh, Arriglen, Kilworth, hold their lands under a five years' lease and that, on the expiration of each five year period, their rents are increased with a consequent deterrent to good husbandry; and, if so, if he will enable these tenants to purchase their holdings by the introduction, if necessary, of legislation for that purpose.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Tenants' Rents.
I am aware that the State lands at Billeragh, Kilworth, administered by my Department, are at present let in lots to eight tenants for a period of five years ending on the 31st December, 1954. The lands in question have always been let by competitive tendering after being duly advertised as is the practice in the case of State lands. As they are subject to the provisions of the State Lands Act, 1924, they cannot be alienated. It is not intended to introduce legislation to provide for the sale of these lands.
These tenants have been there for the last 40 years at least. Only last year the rent, in one case, was increased from £4 to £18 and in another case it was increased from £18 to £23. Would not the Minister agree that under those circumstances it is undesirable for those tenants to make any attempt to improve their holdings? Does the Minister consider it a desirable condition of affairs to have 400 or 500 acres used in that way for the last 40 years and would he take steps to bring in legislation—if legislation is necessary—to deal with the matter?
No, it is not intended to bring in any legislation.
If you do not, I will.
Neither is it correct to say that all these tenants have been there for the past 40 years. Quite a number are there for a very much lesser period.
I will give the Minister particulars of each tenant when I am introducing the Bill.