asked the Minister for Lands if he will indicate the additional area of land which has been acquired for forestry purposes since February, 1948.

Since 1st March, 1948, 24,062 acres of land have been acquired for forestry purposes.

That reply does not relate to Question No. 30 on the Order Paper. I have asked the Minister if he will indicate the additional area of land which has been acquired for forestry purposes since February, 1948.

I fail to understand what the Deputy means. He has asked what additional area of land has been acquired for forestry purposes——

"Additional area."

——since February, 1948, and I have told him that since 1st March, 1948, 24,062 acres of land have been acquired for forestry purposes.

24,000?

asked the Minister for Lands whether he is aware of the fact that a large tract of land suitable for afforestation is situated in the Balla, County Mayo, district, and if he will instruct the forestry division to inspect this land with a view to having it planted.

A few small scattered areas in the Balla district have been offered for forestry purposes. None of these is of the dimensions suggested in the question. If the Deputy gives me particulars of any sizeable area that is likely to be available, I will have it inspected as early as possible.

Thank you very much. About 1,000 acres.