HC Deb 06 March 1905 vol 142 cc417-8
MR. O'DOWD (Sligo, S.)

I beg to ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that Sir Joselyn Gore Booth, landlord, of Ballymote, county Sligo, has agreed to sell to his town tenants through the Estates Commissioners, but that the latter decline to advance the purchase money, although the estate on which this town is situated has already been sold under the Act of 1903; and, if so, will he state the grounds on which the Commissioners base their refusal of this application.

MR. ATKINSON

The Land Purchase Acts do not contemplate the sale of towns and villages.

MR. JOHN REDMOND

Will the right hon. Gentleman amplify his Answer. Does he mean to say that the Land Purchase Act in Ireland does not permit the purchase of towns and villages. Is it not the fact that some towns and villages have been purchased?

MR. ATKINSON

The Land Act was intended for the purchase of agricultural holdings.

MR. JOHN REDMOND

But is the purchase of towns and villages excluded. Is it not the fact that some have already been purchased?

MR. ATKINSON

It is not expressly excluded. I must ask for notice of the Question whether any towns and villages have been purchased.

MR. KILBRIDE

Was not Boyne sold under the Act?

[No Answer was returned.]