asked the Minister for Lands if he will state whether it is proposed to acquire lands in Cappawhite, Hollyford area of South Tipperary, for afforestation purposes.

In the Cappawhite district two offers totalling 210 acres are under consideration, and two further offers totalling 49 acres are dependent on acquisition of the two bigger areas.

In the Hollyford district, negotiations are in progress for an area of 25 acres and progress with two other offers totalling 65 acres must await acquisition of the first mentioned area. A further offer of 134 acres in this district is also under consideration.

Is the Minister aware that prolonged and delicate negotiations have been going on? Is he further aware that any publicity at the moment would be detrimental to the acquisition of these lands for forestry purposes?