asked the Minister for Finance if he will indicate the development plans for lands in his possession at Murrough, County Galway.
22.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Galway Lands.
21.
asked the Minister for Finance from whom the lands at Murrough, County Galway, were acquired; its use in each year since its acquisition; and its approximate annual rental value.
With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 22 together.
The land in question was acquired from Mr. Patrick Fahy, Bailindooley, County Galway, for the erection of a fishery research station for the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. The vendor made it a condition of the sale that he would have the right to use the land for grazing until it was required for building operations which at the time of purchase were expected to start within a relatively short period.
I am not at present in a position to say whether the fisheries research station will be erected on this site or for what other purpose the site may be developed.
Since it was purchased the land has been used for grazing by the former owner. I am advised that its present value for grazing would be of the order of £60/£80 per annum.
How long have these lands been in the possession of the Department?
Since 1966.
Six years?
Yes.
I take it the owner paid no rent.
Good land is just as good as money in the bank.