asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware of the extensive speculation by non-nationals and others which exists in the sale of large ranches in the Midlands, and if it is his intention to forestall same and ensure that all unproductive ranch land is earmarked for distribution; and if he will state what is the reason the Land Commission are not at present acquiring such estates when offered for sale.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Alleged Speculation in Land.
As the Deputy was informed in reply to his previous question on 25th March last, the Land Commission have no power or intention to prevent private sales of lands by the owners. Such sales do not prevent the possible exercise in future of the powers of acquiring lands for division accorded to the Land Commission under the Land Acts. At present, the exercise of these powers is necessarily limited by the existing emergency conditions.