HC Deb 11 May 1915 vol 71 cc1483-4
72. Mr. LYNCH

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether, in regard to the estate of F. S. Brew, West Clare, he is aware that the Congested Districts Board have had the matter in hand for nearly four years, but that the tenants have not yet received their vesting orders; whether this state of affairs is typical of the conduct of business by the Board in West Clare and discontent is caused in consequence; and whether he can state what steps the Board now intends to take and when the vesting orders will be issued?

Mr. BIRRELL

I am informed that although the terms for the purchase of this estate have for a long time been agreed upon, this estate is still not yet vested in the Congested Districts Board, who are thus unable to proceed with its rearrangement and resale. The vesting is not a matter which rests with the Board but depends on the proof of title, and I understand that the vendor's solicitor is at present in communication with the Land Commission in regard to it.

Mr. LYNCH

Considering that four years is a long time to take to deal with a very small matter, will the right hon. Gentleman put a little push and go into this matter?

Mr. BIRRELL

I can assure the hon. Member that I do my very best to make these matters of title go as quickly as possible, but, unfortunately, the smaller the estate the more complicated the title.