asked the Minister for Lands and Agriculture if he can state whether the Land Commission are prepared to exercise the powers conferred upon them under the compulsory clauses of the Land Act, 1923, in order to acquire the lands at Bishopswood and Knockanoran (Maher Bros. Estate), Durrow, Leix, for division amongst the large number of uneconomic holders and landless men in the district, and if he can state what action, if any, the Commissioners have so far taken in the matter, and if the lands are likely to be divided during the present year.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - MAHER BROS. ESTATE, LEIX.
Mr. HOGAN
The Land Commission made an offer to the owner for the purchase of 607 acres of untenanted land situate on the estate of Michael Maher, which was not accepted. Part of these lands have since been sold by the owner and the remainder have recently been offered for sale to the Land Commission, who are having inquiries made.
Is the Minister aware that portion of the lands he has referred to as having been sold is now let on the eleven months' system, and will he answer the portion of the question which asks whether the Commissioners are prepared to exercise compulsory powers to acquire?
Mr. HOGAN
I shall make inquiries. I have not been able to get the full particulars of all these cases.