asked the Minister for Lands if his Department have taken any steps to acquire land, for afforestation purposes, in the Glenbeigh and Glencar districts, County Kerry.

Negotiations are proceeding for the purchase of an area of approximately 500 acres in the Glenbeigh district, but difficulties are being experienced in acquiring a head landlord's interest. My Department will make every effort to bring the matter to a satisfactory conclusion with the least possible delay.

Progress in the Glencar area is dependent on the establishment of a forestry centre at Glenbeigh.