asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware that his Department have recently prepared for planting nine acres of very fertile arable land at Ballinvoher, Kilworth, County Cork; and whether in lieu of allotting arable land for this purpose arrangements will be made to allot it to an adjoining landowner who owns eighteen acres and is very deserving of an enlargement of his holding.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Allotment of Kilworth (Cork) Lands.
32.
The plot in question is situated in the middle of a compact forest block and it would be most undesirable from a management viewpoint to dispose of it. The area has been in the hands of the Forestry Division since 1923. Up to 1956 it was in use as a nursery. It is no longer required for that purpose and it is proposed to plant it in the coming winter.
I notice that the Minister made no mention as to whether the nine acres referred to in my question were arable, non-arable, fertile or non-fertile. Would the Minister say whether it is his opinion or the opinion of his officials that this land is arable, non-arable, fertile or non-fertile?
As the Deputy is aware, the land has been used as a nursery. My information with regard to this plot is that it would take many years to make it what we call arable land.
I have seen the plot in question carrying several cattle and a good few sheep and, if the Minister saw it, I wonder would his opinion be the same as mine, that it is arable land?
That is a separate question.
I would refer to the fact that the farmer concerned owns only 18 acres and the nine acres referred to in the question have been rented to him for the last five years and he has made some kind of living. The taking of these nine acres from him now means that he will have no kind of a living. Will the Minister, in the circumstances, consider giving these nine acres to this farmer?
The Deputy is mistaken. This plot is not adjoining the land of the farmer concerned. The plot is in the middle of a forest that was planted in 1926 and, as far as the individual's position is concerned, my information is that part of other lands which he holds was in the hands of the local auctioneer for auction up to a few months ago.
Further arising——
The Deputy has asked four supplementary questions.
With your permission, I should like to raise this matter on the Adjournment.
We shall have a field day on the Adjournment.