asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware that up to the present there has been no afforestation scheme for South Mayo, and will the Minister state if anything may be done in the matter this year.

The answer to the first portion of the question is in the affirmative. As to the concluding portion, no lands suitable for planting by the State have so far been offered in South Mayo for sale to the Department. If any such lands are offered I shall see that the question of their acquisition is given full consideration.

In regard to afforestation, there are other counties besides Mayo that ought to be considered. This is a serious question, and I would like the Minister to make a statement to the House at his convenience with regard to his proposals on this important subject.

I do not mean to confine my attention to South Mayo.