asked the Minister for Lands the proposals envisaged to allocate the land acquired under the farm retirement scheme.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Land Allocation.
20.
(Cavan): Under EEC Directive 160 farmers with approved development plans which indicate a need for extra land have priority on lands being released under the farmers' retirement scheme. If there is any such land left over after the requirements of modernising farmers are met or if there are no modernising farmers in the locality then the ordinary progressive smallholder will be considered.
When land becomes available to the Land Commission under this scheme, and within the ordinary priorities which the Commission operate, if there are no development farmers will you allocate this land under the old system?
(Cavan): Yes.
Have the local officers been advised accordingly?
(Cavan): Yes. We are purchasing land under this scheme in anticipation of development farmers. In other words, the existence of development farmers is not a condition on which we depend to purchase land.
On a point of order, Sir, perhaps I might discuss that with the Minister some time when I will be allowed to ask a question?
(Cavan): Of course.
The Deputy is reflecting on the Chair. I have shown Deputy Callanan the utmost courtesy and have facilitated his questioning time and time again. Does he wish to raise a question?
No. You are the boss.
The Deputy is trying to make a martyr of himself.
(Interruptions.)
(Cavan): I answered Deputy Callanan because I thought he asked a bona fide question. I did not realise that it was an attempt to insult the Chair.