asked the Minister for Lands if, with reference to a statement made by a member during the debate on the Estimate for his Department that he offered the lands of a man named Gleeson at Carrantrilla, Lisroe and Cloonmore, County Galway, to the Land Commission, and that the Land Commission inspected the lands nearly twelve months ago, he will state when in fact this estate was brought to the attention of the Land Commission; and what is the present position in the negotiations to have these lands acquired, in view of the congestion in the locality.
Written Answers. - County Galway Lands.
39.
I have seen the statement referred to. This 150 acre estate was brought to the attention of the Land Commission at the end of January last. The lands were inspected in February and negotiations with the owner commenced in March. These negotiations, which have proved rather protracted, are continuing and it is hoped that they will be successfully concluded shortly. There is no foundation in fact for the allegation of Deputy Donnellan that he offered these lands to the Land Commission or that they were inspected with a view to acquisition twelve months ago.
40.
asked the Minister for Lands if, with reference to a statement on the Estimate for his Department made by a member that the widow of the late owner of the Smith Estate, Colemanstown, Ballinasloe, offered the land to the Land Commission, twelve months ago, he will state when in fact this Estate was brought to the attention of the Land Commission, in view of the fact that the late Mr. Smith was then living; and what is the present position in the negotiations to have the lands acquired, in view of the dire congestion in the locality.
I have seen the statement referred to. The fact that this 320 acre estate was on offer for sale came to the attention of the Land Commission in March last. The lands were inspected early in April and agreement for purchase of the property was reached on 20th April. Arrangements will be made to take possession of the estate when certain legal formalities have been completed.