asked the Minister for Lands whether any survey has been made to ascertain the numbers of unoccupied holdings in congested districts counties and their suitability for acquisition by the Irish Land Commission and whether he can give any estimate as to the number of such holdings in each such county.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Unoccupied Holdings in Congested Districts.
A special survey on the lines suggested has not been made but the inspectors have standing instructions to report on all lands in their districts which are suitable for acquisition. In this sense a continuous survey is going on. I am aware that there are many unoccupied holdings in these districts and while a close estimate of their numbers is not readily available I can assure the Deputy that no effort is being spared to acquire whatever suitable land becomes available there for the relief of congestion. The general position regarding the occupancy of land is subject to much variation through settlements, sales, deaths, etc., so that land which is not available for acquisition at the present time may be available next year and vice versa. For this reason, a special survey would quickly run out of date, thus dissipating much effort for little or no practical return.