§ Mr. CULLINANasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that John Crawford, Ballybrien, near Limerick Junction, on the estate of Lady Grace, was evicted from his holding on 13th instant; that Crawford offered to purchase at the landlord's terms of 1902, and agreed to have £30 in lieu of arrears due since 1902 added to the purchase money; is he aware that the agent, Mr. Butler, refused a deputation to sell unless £30 and costs were paid; that a force of police was present at the eviction; will the district have to bear the cost; and whether, as the agent's solicitor was offered a fair offer of settlement, the Estates Commissioners will take the case in hand?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI understand that Crawford was evicted on the date mentioned, and that a force of 21 police was present. As they were supplied from the County force the cost will not fall on the district. The case will be inquired into by the Estates Commissioners when the estate is being dealt with in order of priority under the Irish Land Act, 1903. The Commissioners have no power to interfere in any legal proceedings which the landlord may have instituted for the recovery of the rent due by Crawford.