asked the Minister for Agriculture the date of acquisition of the McHugh estate, Danesforth, Carrickon-Shannon; the date the lands were allocated on this estate; and the reason the allocation of these lands has not been completed.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Carrick-on-Shannon Estate.
10.
These lands came into the possession of the Land Commission in March 1982. Most of the lands were allocated in April and May of this year and it is expected that the balance will be allotted very shortly.
Is the Minister aware that three-quarters of this estate was allocated on or about 27 March and that the balance of it is not allocated as yet? I want to know why there has been a delay.
I understand that the reason in this case is that the disposal of the remainder of this estate, which in area is 9.6 hectares, necessitated a supplementary scheme which will be operated this week. The delay was caused by the transfer of most of the Land Commission inspectorate to the farm classification office. But it appears it will be settled this week.
As I understand it, there is still a sizeable number of officers working with the Irish Land Commission all the time. Is the Minister aware that what is causing the delay is that one particular farmer, who received two allocations of land on that estate over the last ten years and who lives 20 miles away, is seeking additional land from the part that is left to be allocated? Is the Minister further aware that the lands which have to be allocated as yet are being grazed by people who have already been allocated lands on that estate? If so, what compensation will be given to the people who have not got the land?
That is a separate question. The Minister would not be responsible.
It is inappropriate for me to comment on the Deputy's remarks. I understand that this problem will be fixed up this week.