asked the Minister for Lands if it is intended to divide the holdings of the Land Commission at Shanakeale, Castlemaine, County Kerry, this year.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers (Resumed). - Land Division.
77.
Lands awaiting division in the Shanakeale district of County Kerry comprise three holdings, aggregating some 70 acres with commonage shares, which were surrendered to the Land Commission by way of exchange. The formulation of proposals for the disposal of these lands in a scheme for the rearrangement of a number of fragmented holdings has reached an advanced stage; and provided that the co-operation of the parties concerned is forthcoming it is hoped to put the work in hands this coming spring.
Is that guaranteed?
Provided they get co-operation. I know the Deputy will help us to get co-operation in this particular case.
78.
asked the Minister for Lands the position regarding the Thomas Hannon Estate, Cahermacnally, Ower, County Galway.
The Land Commission have no proceedings for the acquisition of this property but they are having enquiries made.
79.
asked the Minister for Lands the position regarding the McDonagh Estate, Kilconly, Milltown, County Galway.
80.
asked the Minister for Lands the position regarding the Gordon Estate, Kilclooney, Milltown, County Galway.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 79 and 80 together.
Possession of both of these estates has passed to the Land Commission. An area of 20 acres, with the existing buildings, on the 213 acre Gordon estate has already been allotted. Schemes are at present being prepared for the main portion—193 acres—of this estate and for the McDonagh estate which comprises 187 acres, and it is hoped that plans will be approved so as to permit allocation of the lands next spring.
81.
asked the Minister for Lands the position regarding the Kelly Estate, Gortnagraun, Dunmore, County Galway.
Possession of this substantial property—376 acres—passed to the Land Commission last November. Just now it is not possible to indicate when allotment will take place but every effort is being made to ensure that the lands will be included in next year's allocation programme. I understand that the lands are in need of rehabilitation; a sum of £300 has already been expended on reseeding and further expenditure on manuring is envisaged next year.