asked the Minister for Lands if he is in a position to state when the Weldon estate, Kilmaroney, Athy, in Laoighis and Kildare, will be divided.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Land Division.
It is not possible to state whether or when these lands will become available for allotment.
Is the Minister aware that this matter has been under consideration by the Land Commission for 12 or 14 years, and can he say if it has even reached the stage of active consideration now?
It is under active consideration.
Would the Minister be prepared to receive a deputation of the local people at an early date on this subject so that they may enlighten him?
In view of the fact that this question is before the Land Commission court, I think it would be most improper of me to receive a deputation about it at this stage.
Would the Minister undertake——
Question No. 6.
asked the Minister for Lands whether he is aware that a number of applicants for land on the Kenny estate, Tinnakill, Coolrain, Mountrath, Laoighis, which was divided on 7th November, 1950, were not interviewed at any time by an officer of his Department, and if in view of this he will state how their claims were considered.
I am informed that the implication that a number of applicants were not interviewed is not correct. If the Deputy furnishes me with the names of the persons, who allege they were not interviewed, I will have the matter investigated.
Will the Minister say whether there was any policy decision given by the commissioners deliberately to exclude cottage tenants who were conacre tenants on the estate before it was divided?
I do not think so.
Can the Minister say whether it is the policy of the Government to exclude cottage tenants in the division of land?
The whole question of the allotment of land is one, to a great extent, for the commissioners within the law as laid down by this House.
To what extent?
To the extent that the law determines it.
Is it clearly stated or is it not?
It is very clearly stated.