asked the Minister for Supplies whether he has received a complaint regarding the high rents charged for the letting of turf banks on the Kelly Estate at Maddenstown, Curragh Camp; and, if so, whether he will state what action he has taken in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Letting of Turf Banks in Kildare.
I have received representations from the Deputy, from Deputy Thomas Harris, and from the Suncroft Fianna Fáil Cumann, in regard to the charging of excessive rents for the turf banks referred to. My Department has been in correspondence with the legal representatives of the owner, and the matter is at present under examination.
In view of the fact that the turf-cutting season is now at hand, will the Minister give an assurance that those responsible for the letting of the turf banks in question will not be allowed to get away with the exorbitant rents which they charged for those turf banks last year?
Yes. We have now power to fix rents at which the turf banks are to be let. We had not that power last year.
May I take it that people in this turf area who live by the production of turf—apart from requiring turf for fuel—will, at least, be protected against the high prices which were charged for these turf banks last year?
The matter is being examined, and, if necessary, the power referred to will be exercised.