asked the Minister for Lands if he will state whether his Department has purchased or acquired any lands in the electoral divisions of Glencar and Glanbehy, County Kerry, for afforestation purposes; and, if not, whether it is the intention of his Department to do so.

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. It is my intention to acquire land in this district if it is possible to do so and negotiations for an appreciable area are in progress.