andMr. Brosnan asked the Minister for Lands if, in view of the considerable amount of congestion in the area which cannot be otherwise relieved, the Land Commission will acquire and divide the lands at the Great Island, Cobh, County Cork, among the local small-holders.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Cork Lands.
66.
(Cavan): The Land Commission have already served notice of their intention to inspect the lands referred to.
Until such time as the inspection has been completed it is not possible to say what action will be taken in regard to the lands.
I want to make it clear that this question was put down without prejudice to whatever lands the Land Commission may acquire from University College, Cork, if and when they do acquire the Fota Island estate. My information is that they are being worked or let by an absentee landlord and in my submission it would be competent for the Minister to acquire them without delay.
(Cavan): As the Deputy is aware, the decision to acquire or not to acquire lies with the Land Commission and not with me. It is only comparatively recently that the owner died. The lands were investigated about two years ago and at that time there was an owner in residence. Within the last couple of weeks a further notice was served and the land is being investigated in prevailing conditions.