§ Mr. BOLANDasked the Chief Secretary what steps, if any, have been taken to secure the reinstatement of Mr. Michael Shanahan in his holding on the estate of the Knight of Kerry, Valentia Island, county Kerry; can he state by whom the farm is at present being grazed; and whether he is aware that it is situated at a distance from the home farm?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Estates Commissioners received an application from Michael M. Shanahan for reinstatement in a holding formerly occupied by his father on the estate of the Knight of Kerry, and after inquiry and consideration decided to take no action in the matter. The Commissioners cannot say whether this holding is being grazed at present. They understand it is worked by the owner as a home farm.
§ Mr. BOLANDasked whether the Congested Districts Board has now been furnished with all the necessary particulars for the purchase of the Fuller estate, near Caherciveen; if not, will a further request be sent to the agent and inspection be undertaken without delay; whether he is aware that an eviction has lately been carried out, although the delay in completing purchase negotiations is in no way due to the tenants; and whether steps will be taken to prevent the tenants being harassed, evictions carried out, and the importation of planters threatened, pending the settlement of the purchase terms?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Congested Districts Board have now been furnished with the necessary particulars to enable them to have the estate referred to inspected, with a view to deciding whether they will purchase it or consent to a direct sale to220W the tenants. They will have the property inspected as soon as practicable, having regard to the other engagements of their staff. The Board have no information regarding the alleged recent eviction, and cannot interfere in any proceedings between the present owner and the tenants.
§ Mr. BOLANDasked the Chief Secretary to the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland whether he is aware that the tenants of the Sugrue estate, Fermoyle, near Caherciveen, sent a memorial to the Congested Districts Board in December, 1909, asking that the purchase of the estate should be completed; what steps, if any, have been taken to acquire the property from the trustee, Mr. Myles O'Mahony; and whether negotiations have now been completed?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Memorial referred to was received. The Congested Districts Board communicated with the trustee who has informed them that those interested in the estate are not prepared to negotiate for a sale at present.