§ Mr. JOHN O'DONNELLasked whether he is aware that on the borders of the Caheraphcepa grazing ranch, in the Clarenbridge parish and Gort union, there are several small tenancies, the valuation of which does not average more than 50s. each; that the grazing farm is in the hand of the bank; that there is a desire on the part of the landlords to sell the place, and on the part of the tenants in its vicinity to purchase and have it distributed; whether any step has been taken by the Congested Districts Board to acquire this ranch; and, if not, whether he will intimate to that body the desirability of moving promptly in that direction?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Congested Districts Board sent a circular letter to the owner in 1907 asking him whether he would sell these lands, but received no reply. They do not at present intend to open negotiations for the purchase of the lands.
§ Mr. JOHN O'DONNELLasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that the tenants in the townlands of Kilgreena, Carrahall, and Drishaughan, in the Ballinrobe Union, comprising the Browne and Owens estate there, and the landlords have agreed as to terms of purchase; that the latter have offered the place to the Congested Districts Board; that there is a grazing farm of 250 acres on this estate, while the tenants have only 100 acres between them; and that it is a case suited for prompt handling by the Congested Districts Board; whether he will state what are the intentions of this body regarding the matter; and whether they will soon take it over for redistribution and enlargement of holdings?
§ Mr. BIRRELLI understand that a portion of this estate was offered to the Congested Districts Board some time ago. The Board hope soon to be in a position to communicate with the landlords in this and numerous other cases asking whether they will reopen negotiations for sale to or through the Board.