§ 16. Mr. CRUMLEYasked whether the Estates Commissioners, by letter dated 16th December, 1908, intimated to James Burns, of Tullygrevagh, Kiltyclogher, that his application for reinstatement in a holding on the estate of H. de F. Montgomery, county Fermanagh, from which he was evicted, had been noted for consideration in the allotment of such untenanted land as they might acquire; whether James Burns has since died; and can the Chief Secretary state whether the Commissioners within a reasonably short time will provide the widow and family with a holding in accordance with the promise made to the deceased?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe reply to the first paragraph of the question is in the affirmative. The Estates Commissioners did not promise to provide Burns with a holding, but said his application would be considered in the allotment of such untenanted land as they might acquire, and if suitable untenanted land is acquired by them they will consider the case of Burns' widow in connection therewith.
§ Mr. CRUMLEYIs it not the fact that four years ago these people were promised their holding, and will the right hon. Gentleman now see whether something cannot be done for this widow?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI will certainly do the best I can.