asked the Minister for Lands whether the Land Commission have considered the propriety of acquiring the lands of Doonecoy, Hillas estate, Templeboy, County Sligo, which are urgently needed for the relief of congestion in the locality, and, if so, with what result.

The Land Commission acquired portion of this estate containing 75 acres last year and subsequently instituted proceedings for the acquisition of the balance of 176 acres. This latter area changed hands early this year and an objection to acquisition lodged by the new owner was recently allowed by the commissioners.

Does the Minister agree with the decision arrived at by the Galway Court with regard to the purchase of this estate?

It is the commissioners that have the last and only word in the matter of acquisition. The Minister may agree or disagree, but they have the final decision.

What functions has the Minister in the matter?

As far as acquisition is concerned, none whatever.

Will the Minister state that the Land Commission refused to acquire the lands a few months ago?

The proceedings were instituted before the sitting of the court took place.

Is the Minister aware that his Department authorised a recent survey of the area to find out the number of congests? Two inspectors spent the best part of two days on that inspection and the best part of a night making out their report and when the inspector went to the court the commissioners refused to hear him.

It is the general practice to have a congest survey before the proceedings.

Is the Minister aware that there is acute congestion in the area?

Yes.

How many deputations did the Minister receive from that area?

The Minister may not be cross-examined.

We will have it out on the Estimate.