asked the Minister for Lands whether the Land Commission have any proceedings in progress in connection with the acquisition of the Moyles estate, Ballycoolan, Stradbally, Laois.

This estate comprises over 600 acres in all. Agreement has been reached with the owner for the purchase of an area of 216 acres and I expect that possession thereof will be obtained early next year. A substantial portion of the balance of the estate was recently offered for sale to the Land Commission and this offer is under consideration at present.