Mr. COSGRAVEasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland what the Estates Commissioners propose to do in connection with the glebe lands at Ahascragh Castle-gar estate, county Galway; and whether they will be made available for the tenants of the local uneconomic holdings?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Commissioners have the allotment of the lands in question under their consideration.
Mr. COSGRAVEasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that the Congested Districts Board made a final offer for the lands of Derryhiveney North and South, Young Estate, Portumna, county Galway, in February, 1914; whether the owner has accepted the offer; and, if so, what is the cause of the delay in getting possession of the property?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe Congested Districts Board in December, 1914, made a final offer for the purchase of the lands of Derry-1992W hiveney South and Newtown on the Young Estate, but it was not accepted.
Mr. COSGRAVEasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that Lord Clanricarde, instead of employing extra land valuers to prepare evidence for the adjourned trial which was fixed for the 3rd May, dispensed with the services of some of those already employed; and whether the Congested Districts Board made any inquiries to ascertain whether Lord Clanricarde took sufficient steps to procure skilled assistance to enable him to have the necessary documents prepared?
§ Mr. BIRRELLThe answers to both parts of the question are in the negative.