andMr. McAuliffe asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware that a number of forestry employees at the Ballyhoura Forest, Doneraile, County Cork, have recently been dismissed; and if in view of the fact that the Forestry Branch have acquired a large tract of land in the district and that there is a large number unemployed in the area he will consider the possibility of having these men employed.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dismissal of Cork Forestry Employees.
Following the completion of last year's planting programme and seasonal necessary work at Ballyhoura Forest at the end of April, six men with short service had to be laid off as the volume of work available at the forest did not permit of their continued employment.
My Department has not acquired any land in the Ballyhoura area in the past few years but agreement to purchase five areas totalling 1,600 acres has been reached and title investigation is proceeding. Negotiations to purchase three other areas comprising 1,128 acres are in progress. These cases will be expedited as much as possible.