asked the Minister for Lands if the Land Commission have initiated proceedings for the acquisition of the Ward estate, Mucknagh, Killoe, Longford, if an inspection has taken place and whether they have considered the propriety of proceeding with the acquisition of the lands for division amongst smallholders in this congested area; and, if so, with what result.

The Land Commission have no proceedings for the acquisition of this estate. The lands have been inspected but further inquiries have to be made before a decision can be taken on the question of acquisition.

Is the Minister aware that, owing to the delay in giving a decision on the matter, two aspects arise in this case—(1) that the free sale of a farm is being held up, and (2) that the people are exasperated at the delay in giving a decision?

I understand that the lands have been inspected but the report has not yet been lodged. I will try to expedite the matter.

asked the Minister for Lands if he will state whether the lands of the late Mr. Thomas Queenan, Porttobello, Elphin, County Roscommon, have been inspected with a view to acquisition by the Land Commission; and, if not, if the Land Commission will make arrangements to have the lands inspected immediately.

It is proposed to have these lands inspected to ascertain if they are suitable and available for Land Commission purposes.

asked the Minister for Lands if he will state what progress has been made by the Land Commission towards acquiring the farm of Mr. Talbot situated at Garry Castle, Athlone, County Westmeath.

The Land Commission have resumed 75 acres of Mr. Talbot's lands in Kilkenny Abbey and have proceedings for the resumption of a further area in Kilkenny West.

asked the Minister for Lands if he will state the present position regarding the acquisition by the Land Commission of the Comyn estate, Miltown, County Roscommon.

Proceedings were instituted for the acquisition of the estate in question but an objection to acquisition has been allowed.