asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware that forestry work is becoming scarce in the Durrow-Ballacolla district, County Laois; if he will make arrangements for part of the Granstown Manor Estate, Ballacolla, to be purchased by the Forestry Section of his Department for forestry development in order to provide employment to workers in Durrow and Ballacolla; and when it is proposed that the Land Commission will divide the Granstown Manor Estate (Harpur) amongst the local small holders, all of whom are eagerly awaiting this development.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Laois Forestry Employment.
65.
Within the past 12 months, an aggregate area of 2,279 acres has been taken over by the Land Commission on the estates referred to. Proposals for disposal of this extensive area have not yet been finalised but I understand that the possibility of allocating some of the lands for State afforestation purposes is under consideration.
No doubt, this district will benefit, by way of employment, from the development and improvement of these and other lands acquired by the Land Commission in the locality.
Can the Minister say how much of that has already been granted?
That is a separate question.
I am sorry; I have not got that information available.