asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries when he proposes to introduce amended legislation to enable Wexford County Council to acquire a portion of land for housing purposes from the Johnstown Castle estate.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Wexford Housing.
36.
Discussions have been in progress between An Foras Talúntais and the Wexford County Council with a view to defining the exact areas of the Johnstown Castle estate which the county council wish to acquire. As soon as details of the areas have been settled, I intend to proceed with the necessary legislation.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary ensure that this legislation is introduced as soon as possible? It has been with his Department for close on two years. It is only a minor piece of legislation but it could do something to help the housing drive in that part of the country.
Every possible effort is being made. I am sure the Deputy is aware of the difficulties arising here because under existing legislation An Foras Talúntais is expressly precluded from selling all or part of the Johnstown estate for any purpose. This was a condition asked for by the original donors of the estate to the nation. As soon as the county council and An Foras Talúntais settle the final details of the areas which the council want for housing purposes the necessary legislation will proceed. It is not possible to say when exactly this might be done but it is possible that the legislation could be introduced before the summer recess.