asked the Minister for Lands if he will state the acreage of land allocated for afforestation purposes on the estate of Captain Ryan (Record No. U./15518), County Offaly, and whether the unemployed men who lost their jobs when the estate was acquired will be given first preference for suitable holdings or for work in the Forestry Division.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Afforestation.
As a scheme for the allotment of this estate has not been prepared it is not possible to state what area will be allotted for afforestation purposes but I anticipate that it may be in the region of 150 acres. The claims of persons displaced from employment by reason of the acquisition of the estate, will be considered by the Land Commission in conjunction with the resale scheme. It is not proposed to depart from the established procedure for the recruitment of labour for any afforestation work to be undertaken on the estate.