§ MR. BOLAND (Kerry S.)To ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that, although negotiations for the purchase of the Arthur Blennerhassett estate, near Killorglin, have been opened, a wholesale issue of civil bills for arrears of rent has been made; and whether, in view of the increase in the rents made since 1877, he will use his influence to have these proceedings stayed in order that purchase negotiations may be concluded.
(Answered by Mr. Birrell.) The Estates Commissioners inform me that purchase agreements in respect of the Ballyseedy portion of this estate have been lodged with them, but that no proceedings in respect of the Killorglin portion of the estate have been instituted before them, and they have no knowledge of any negotiations for the purchase of that part of the estate which may be proceeding. I will ask the Commissioners to consider whether the case is one in which they 578 might, with advantage, offer their services as conciliators under Section 8 of the Lord-Lieutenant's regulations.