§ MR. DUFFY (Galway, S.)To ask the Chief Secretary to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland whether the attention of the Commissioners has been directed to the circumstances attending the sale of the grass lands of Bunnahow, Oranmore, county Galway, formerly in possession of Mr. Robert Thomas Lattery, of London; whether he is aware that Mr. Lattery surrendered these lands in the interest of the small uneconomic holders of land in the neighbourhood of Gilrae; could he say if any attempt was made to buy up these lands by outsiders to the exclusion of the small occupiers; and, having regard to the peace and good order of the district, would he advise the Commissioners to take such steps as may be necessary to see that these small occupiers are provided for.
§ (Answered by Mr. Birrell.) The lands in question have been offered for sale to the Estates Commissioners, who have had them inspected, and have informed the owner of the price they are prepared to give. A large number of small tenants in the neighbourhood have applied to the Commissioners for holdings on the property, and their applications will receive full consideration in the event of the property being acquired.