asked the Minister for Agriculture if, in relation to the proposed sale of a farm at Doonmore, Doonbeg, County Clare, he is aware that 11 local congests have applied for division of this holding; and if he intends to sanction the sale of this farm to a single purchaser from outside the locality.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Division of Clare Farm.
23.
I understand from the Land Commission that they have received representations on behalf of 11 local farmers who are interested in obtaining portion of these lands.
The Commission are having inquiries made but it is not possible at this stage to indicate what action, if any, they will take in the matter.
Is the Minister aware that the view is widely held by small farmers at present that the Department of Finance have instructed the Department of Agriculture not to acquire for division further land which would be allocated to small farmers? Is this a fact? Have the Department of Finance restricted the amount of money available for the purchase of land?
That question, as the Chair will observe, has no relation to the question on the Order Paper, but for the easing of the Deputy's mind I am glad to say that no such instruction has been given. That is the question the Deputy wanted to have answered but it is not the question on the Order Paper.
Is it a fact that there is a go-slow in regard to the acquisition of holdings?
No, that is not true.
There are many indications that land has not been acquired for the relief of congestion——
The Deputy is now giving information rather than seeking it. I am calling Question No. 24.
Is it a fact that holdings of large acreages are available where there are congests adjacent to the holdings?
I want to help the Deputy and tell him how he will get around this problem that he has not handled very expertly in the case of this question. If he wants to find out the amount of land actually taken in by the Land Commission over a period of years he should put down a question about that matter and I shall be glad to answer it.
And the reply might be very interesting.
Yes, indeed. I like to help my colleagues.