asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will continue the turbary lettings on estates (details supplied) in County Donegal.
Ceisteanna—Question. Oral Answers. - County Donegal Turbary.
4.
The lettings will be continued again this year.
In view of the difficulties that have arisen on that estate during the past 12 months, can the Minister give an assurance that there will not be any interference with tenants who have turbary rights on this holding and that their rights will be continued?
I cannot give an undertaking that any particular line of action will be taken. The inspectors are looking closely at the problems and the lettings are all right for this year. We will look at the question again at the end of the year.
Due notice has been given to the Department of the problem which would have been created in this area had the Land Commission continued their policy. Is the Minister not prepared to guarantee the continuation of the traditional right of families to have their own turf supply?
Deputy Conaghan will be aware that all matters relating to turbary rights are quite involved. I have taken a deep interest in this case and for that reason we have decided to continue the lettings and we will examine the matter closely at the end of the year.
In view of the Minister's knowledge of the matter, can he give an assurance that he will deal fairly with it in order to guarantee this traditional right?
I assure the Deputy that I have an open mind on this issue and, given the circumstances involved, I am sure we will come to the right decision.
What criteria are used?
This question deals specifically with County Donegal and we cannot turn it into a general question. The Deputy may have another opportunity to raise it.