§ 69 and 70. Mr. GINNELLasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland (1) if he will say what action has been taken in response to the resolution sent him on 24th January by the Multyfarnham Food-production Association on the subject of grass land for tillage and their subsequent resolution on cow pasturage for the villagers; by what date land in the district will be made available for each of these purposes; and (2) if he will say what progress has been made towards the compulsory distribution, in default of tillage, of the grazing tracts in and around the parish of Mayne, Westmeath, namely, Kiltoom, Coolure, Derra, Lispopple, Turbotstown, and Lakeview, the neighbouring small holders and landless men in each case being eager to till the land this season, provided that they are made purchasers on the usual terms?
§ Mr. DUKEThe Department of Agriculture are unable state until after the expiry of the date specified in the Regulations the steps which it may be desirable to take in cases in which the rated occupiers of grass lands fail to comply with the compulsory tillage regulations. The provision of pasturage for cows is not contemplated under the Regulations, the object of which is the cultivation of the soil.
§ Mr. GINNELLWill the right hon. Gentleman be prepared to take action promptly, having regard to the lateness of the season as soon as he learns that the owners refuse to regard it as their duty?