§ Mr. MacVEAGHasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that, although three years have passed since the Rev. P. M'Namee, Bellaghy, county Derry, bought a site for a teacher's residence, the Land Commission has not yet issued a lease; whether he is aware that over a year ago the Land Commission authorised an answer in this House to the effect that it would be issued immediately; whether he is aware that in consequence of the delay, the purchaser sought to have the agreement cancelled, but that the Land Commission refused to refund the deposit, and that the application was thereupon renewed; and whether any explanation can be given of the delay, or any definite date fixed for the completion of the transaction?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe hon. Member is apparently under a misapprehension. The Land Commission do not issue leases in such cases, and my reply to the question on the subject asked by the hon. Member on 16th June last made no mention of a lease. The Commissioners have long since applied the deposit paid in reducing Mrs. Rea's annuity, and the instalments thereof have been reduced since June, 1908. It is for the parties to complete the transfer deed of the plot acquired for the teacher's residence, and the Commissioners await proof that such transfer has been perfected and lodged with the Registrar of Titles. When the proof is received the order discharging the plot from liability to the land purchase annuity will be made. I understand that Father M'Namee's solicitor was informed to this effect so far back as 28th July last.