asked the Minister for Lands what is the position in regard to the division of the old holding of Patrick Killilea, Bohill, Ballyforan, Ballinasloe, County Galway (record No. M.6361).
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Division of Galway Holding.
33.
In April last, these lands, containing about 16½ acres and some commonage shares, were allotted by the Land Commission as enlargements for two adjoining uneconomic holdings. There is still some congestion in this locality and the claims of the other uneconomic holders will be reconsidered at the earliest possible opportunity.
Is the Minister aware that two uneconomic tenants with the lowest valuation in this village, John Hannon and Laurence McDermott, both mearing this holding—one so much so that if he opened his fowl house door the hens would trespass on it—were not considered by the Land Commission when the holding was being divided? Is the Minister further aware that persons with much higher valuation got the additions, including a person who has two holdings already, one of which he was setting, and who has since acquired another holding? In view of the uneasiness and disquiet this has caused in the locality, would the Minister ask the Land Commission to reconsider the distribution of this holding?
The distribution of land of this nature is a matter solely in the discretion of the Land Commission. All I can say in a general way about this estate is that it comprises only 16½ acres in a land-hungry area in which, I understand, there are at least eight deserving applicants. It is inevitable in these circumstances that some of these applicants could not be considered, but, as I said, they will be considered when other lands become available.
When will that be?
I want to ask that an inquiry be made into this; it is a public disgrace.