asked the Minister for Lands and Fisheries if he is aware that acute congestion exists in the parish of Islandeady, where there are over 100 tenants whose poor law valuations are under £5 each, and if he will now state what steps are being taken to acquire the large grazing ranch containing over 400 acres held by Mr. Matthew Fahy, Greenhills, Islandeady.
Written Answers. - Question re Relief of Congestion at Islandeady.
The Land Commission are aware of the congestion prevailing in the parish of Islandeady.
The lands held by Mr. Matthew Fahy at Claggarnagh West, containing approximately 313 acres have been inspected and valued with a view to acquisition. The owner objects to sell, and as the lands have been purchased under Land Purchase Acts and are subject to a Land Purchase Annuity, he can, in the event of the Land Commission taking proceedings for their compulsory acquisition, exercise his right under the provisions of Section 24 (4) (b), Land Act, 1923, to be provided with an equivalent holding.
The case has been noted for consideration in the event of a suitable holding being available which could be offered to Mr. Fahy in exchange for his lands in County Mayo.