asked the Minister for Lands whether or not the Carter estate, New Barn, Kilsallaghan, was acquired by the Land Commission for the relief of local congestion and, further, if he has satisfied himself that this policy is being applied by the Land Commission in regard to the allotting of this estate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Allotment of County Dublin Estate.
The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative — the second part does not therefore arise.
I should however say that the Land Commission resumed the Carter holding at Newbarn for the purposes for which such land may be legally resumed. These purposes include the provision of holdings for persons whose land is required for the enlargement of small-holdings in congested districts. I am satisfied that the decision of the commissioners is in the best interests of the country, having regard to the need for relieving congestion within the scheduled congested districts.
By Land Acts passed under different Governments, the selection of allottees has been left as an "excepted matter" within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Land Commissioners. I deprecate the agitation which has arisen. It cannot affect the decision of the Land Commission.
Arising out of the provocative reply of the Minister's, I want to say that I was present in the Land Court on the occasion when proceedings were instituted for the resumption of this estate by the Land Commission, and it was stated then in the certificate of these proceedings that the question of the relief of local congestion was the paramount consideration. It is obvious from what has happened and from announcements which have been made——
What is the supplementary question?
It is obvious that that is not being implemented.
What is the supplementary question?
I want to protest, I intend to protest——
The Deputy must resume his seat.
I want to protest against what is being done to the people of this county who are entitled to the land in question.
A Deputy
Chair!
I do not propose to be silenced on this matter. I insist upon maintaining my right as a representative of these people.
Will the Deputy sit down?
I refuse to sit down.
Then the Deputy must leave the House.
I will be heard on this question. I refuse to leave the House.
Then I name the Deputy for disregarding the authority of the Chair.
I reiterate that any Minister who tries to impose this on the people of County Dublin——