§ Mr. HAYDENasked the Chief Secretary for Ireland whether representations have been made to the Department of Agriculture in Ireland by the occupiers of small holdings at Erritt, county Roscommon, to the effect that the only chance of availing of their labour for increasing the food supply of the country is to acquire for them, either temporarily or permanently, the untenanted grass lands known as Erritt demesne, the property of Lord De Freyne, who is said to be willing to dispose of them; and whether the Department has taken any steps to ascertain the views of the owner of these lands and to meet the wishes of those who are able and anxious to till them?
§ Mr. DUKEThe Department of Agriculture is not in a position to undertake negotiations for transfer of lands. The matter is one for negotiation between the parties concerned.