asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that the Agricultural Credit Corporation has adopted as a policy that it will not release any portion of land over which it holds a charge for the purpose of a new house being erected thereon with the assistance of the Small Dwellings (Acquisition) Acts unless the whole charge due to the corporation is repaid and whether he is further aware that certain farmers are by this policy prevented from building; and, if so, if he will take steps to have it altered.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Agricultural Credit Corporation's Policy.
I have no function in this matter, which is solely within the competence of the Agricultural Credit Corporation, acting pursuant to the powers conferred on them by statute.
I am informed, however, that the corporation has not adopted any such policy as that referred to by the Deputy. Every application for the release of part of the land on which they hold a charge as security for a loan is decided by the corporation on its merits, regard being had to the amount owing, the value of the security and the borrower's record in discharging his obligations to the corporation.