asked the Minister for Lands if he will state what action, if any, has recently been taken in connection with the acquisition and division of the lands on the Weldon estate, Kilmaroney, Athy, in the Counties of Leix and Kildare; if he is aware of the many deserving applicants for land in the area; and if he will make a clear statement as to the full extent of Land Commission activities so far as this estate is concerned.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition and Division of Kildare Lands.
asked the Minister for Lands whether the Land Commission have inspected the Kilmaroney estate at Athy, County Kildare; and whether, having regard to the keen local demand for the division of the estate, it is intended to take early steps to acquire it for division.
I propose to take together questions Nos. 18 and 19, which relate to the same lands. In reply to a question on the 17th April last, I indicated that it was not then practicable for the Land Commission to take any action in the case. There is no change in the position since.
Is not the Minister aware of the fact, by deputation or otherwise, that there is a keen demand locally for the acquisition of these lands by persons who see in their acquisition and division their only hope of becoming economic holders? Would the Minister, therefore, cause further investigations to be made with a view to taking steps to acquire these lands for division?
I have no doubt that there is in this case, as in many others, a great number of applicants for any land which may be divided, but I am trying to concentrate on finding a solution of the difficulty in the congested districts.
Is the Minister aware that one of the most congested areas in the Midlands is the area quite convenient to this estate? I am sure the Minister has reports from his inspectors and is well aware of the number of small-holders who are convenient to this estate.
Does the Minister admit that congestion exists in the area?
The Minister does not admit anything.
He admits that no action will be taken.