asked the Minister for Lands whether, in view of the fact that the lands and buildings known as Strancally Castle, Knockanore, County Waterford, were purchased from the owner some time ago, and that the property has now been advertised in the public Press for sale by the Land Commission, he will state the circumstances leading to the decision not to divide the land amongst the people needing land in the area.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sale of Strancally (Waterford) Castle and Lands.
The Deputy has been wrongly informed. The advertisement related only to portion of the acquired lands, viz. the large castle with minimum area of accommodation land which has since been sold. It would have been quite unjustifiable to demolish this fine residence which was not suitable for ordinary allotment purposes.
The requirements of local applicants will be fully considered in connection with the disposal of the balance of the property containing some 300 acres.
Could the Minister say what acreage went with the castle?
In all, about 160 acres, including lands that could not be described as arable.