asked the Minister for Lands if it is proposed to divide the lands on the Moran estate at Kilfoylan, Tubber, Moate, County Offaly, record No. S. 24370, during the coming spring; and, if not, when it is hoped to allot these lands.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Offaly Lands.
56.
A scheme for division of this 61 acre property is being prepared and it is hoped that resale plans will be approved so as to permit allocation of the lands next spring.
57.
asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware of the great congestion that exists amongst small holders in the area of Clonfanlough, County Offaly; if a rearrangement of holdings can take place for the convenience of smallholders; and, if the Land Commission will acquire and purchase any land becoming available in the districts of Carrowkeel, et cetera, in order to assist in solving the problem of congestion in this area.
I am aware that there is a need for enlargement and rearrangement of fragmented holdings in the general area referred to by the Deputy. In fact, the Land Commission have been endeavouring for some time to accumulate a pool of land which would facilitate the formulation of a scheme for rearrangement in these townlands.
Heretofore, priority has had to be given to that part of the area fronting the River Shannon where, due to periodic flooding, the need for the provision of sites for houses and dry stands for stock was pressing. To this end, the Land Commission have, during some years past, allocated some 175 acres.
There are at present six properties, aggregating 250 acres, in the possession of the Land Commission in the locality, while proceedings for acquisition of a further two, aggregating 67 acres, are in train.
The acquisition of further lands to facilitate rearrangement of these townlands continues to receive attention.
I am informed that employment in the district is maintained at a reasonably good level by Bord na Móna's Blackwater Bog.