§ Mr. MURPHYasked whether, as a result of a visit of Mr. Howard, inspector of the Estates Commissioners, to the farm of Mr. Richard J. Walsh, at Kilmurry, county Kerry, last June, he declared the terms demanded by the landlord, Mr. Pierce Gun Mahony, entirely excessive, and, recommended the acceptance of very much reduced terms to the landlord, who refused to accept the offer?
§ Mr. CHERRYI am informed that the farm was originally offered to Walsh by the trustees of the estate at a price representing 21½ years' purchase of his second-term rent, which price was to include three years' arrears of rent. The real price at which the farm was offered to him was, therefore, about 18 years' purchase. I understand that the inspector suggested a price which was equivalent to about 18 years' purchase. The trustees, however, declined to consider terms of purchase while Walsh was in possession.
§ Mr. MURPHYAs this matter is of great importance, having regard to the fact that the landlord circularised the Members of the House, may I ask whether, substantially, the reply obtained, after three questions have been asked, is to the effect that the Estates Commissioners asked the landlord to accept a reduced price for the tenants' holding and the landlord refused to accept that reduced reasonable price?
§ Mr. CHERRYNo; that is not so. If the hon. Member had listened to the answer, he would know that it is mentioned that the inspector suggested it. I did not say the Estates Commissioners.
§ Mr. MURPHYI asked whether the inspector of the Estates Commissioners recommended a reduced price.
§ Mr. CHERRYI have already answered that question in the affirmative.