asked the Minister for Lands whether negotiations for the acquisition of the rifle range at Curraghmore Bog, Athlone, have yet been concluded with the Department of Defence; and, if not, whether he will seek to have this bog acquired in time for harvesting turf this season.

Negotiations with the Department of Defence have not yet been completed but there will be no avoidable delay in bringing them to a conclusion.

Has the Minister adverted to his colleague's final paragraph? Any delay which leaves this bog undivided for another six weeks will make it impossible for anyone to collect a sod of turf off it this year. Does the Minister hold out any hope to his colleague?

I cannot say. Every step is being taken.

Will people be able to cut turf on it this year?

I am not able to state that.

That is the information the question was designed to elicit.