§ Mr. O'DOWDasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that on 23rd May, 1910, a memorial signed by a number of small farmers or cottiers residing in the parish of Tubercurry, county Sligo, was sent to the Congested Districts Board pointing out that there were a number of non-residential grazing ranches in the district suitable for the enlargement of small holdings, and praying that, as the district was one of the most congested in Ireland, the owners of these waste lands be approached with the view of purchase; whether he is aware that on 26th May, 1910, the Congested Districts Board, in acknowledging the receipt of the memorial, asked for information as to the names of the landlords and occupiers of the lands referred to in the memorial; whether such information was supplied; and, if so, whether these landlords have since been approached, or any steps taken to have congestion relieved in this congested district?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Congested Districts Board inform me that as a result of the correspondence referred to by the hon. Member they have given directions for the valuation of the Hugh-Mossman Estate with a view to its purchase. Mrs. Howley, who was formerly a tenant on this estate, has already signed an agreement 2414 to purchase from the Estates Commissioners, and this land is therefore not available for the purposes of the Board. The estate of Miss Nicholson is being dealt with by the Estates Commissioners, and the estates of Captain Cooper and the representatives of the late Mr. Walker have not been offered to the Board.