asked the Minister for Lands if he will state (1) what proposals the Land Commission have under consideration for turbary development on Gowlane bog, County Sligo, and (2) the programme of work on this bog for the coming season.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Sligo Bog.
In the townlands of Carns, Tawnalaghta, Cloonkeelaun, Crewagh, Rathgoonaun and Oweny-keevan (which embrace practically the whole of what is known locally as Gowlane bog) the Land Commission have developed and allotted approximately 1,800 acres of turbary and they have on hands a further area of 4,225 acres, portion of which is let on a temporary basis.
They are also considering the resumption of additional areas totalling 1,350 acres which, with the area on hands, would enable them to meet all local domestic requirements.
Until the question of further resumptions has been finally settled it will not be possible to forecast the works programme for a particular season but it is anticipated that a sum approaching £40,000 will be expended on the future development of all the lands likely to be involved.
It is necessary to emphasise that in the acquisition of bog the paramount consideration with the Land Commission is the provision of turf for local landholders for consumption as fuel in their own houses and not for sale.