asked the Minister for Lands (a) whether representations have been made to the Land Commission on behalf of local congests for the acquisition and division of the Cunningham lands, Coolsrahra, near Clarin-bridge, County Galway, (b) whether the owner is agreeable to such acquisition, and (c) if he will request the commission to treat the matter expeditiously.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Acquisition of Lands.
Representations have been made regarding the acquisition of these lands, which were offered by the owner in exchange for other lands. The Land Commission have considered the matter and have decided to take no action on the questions of exchange or acquisition.
Is not the Minister aware that these lands, comprising 300 acres, were offered to the Land Commission in exchange for approximately 50 acres nearer to this man's home, and surely this is an instance in which the Minister should bring his authority to bear on the Land Commission to acquire this land and divide it among the congests?
Perhaps the Deputy is not aware that the owner of these lands holds his land in fee?
asked the Minister for Lands whether, in view of the fact that a large number of young men have emigrated during the past four years from the Drumconrath-Siddan-Nobber area of North Meath, the Land Commission will consider the propriety of acquiring some of the large nonresidential farms in the area with a view to dividing them amongst the uneconomic holders and landless men who are still in the area.
The Land Commission are considering the acquisition of some 1,300 acres in this area for the relief of congestion.