asked the Minister for Lands if he is aware that the residential farm, consisting of 319 acres, of the personal representative of the late James H. Smith of Colmanstown House, Ballinasloe, County Galway, is being offered for sale on Thursday, 25th April, 1963; and, if so, if he will impress upon the Land Commission the desirability of acquiring this holding in view of the fact that there is dire land congestion in this locality.

42.

asked the Minister for Lands if he will direct the attention of the Land Commission to the Smith Estate, Colmanstown, County Galway, which consists of 319 acres, with a view to its acquisition for division amongst the uneconomic holders in the area.

I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 41 and 42 together.

There are no proceedings for acquisition of these lands but the Deputies' representations in the matter have been conveyed to the Land Commission.

It is about a month yet before this land comes up for public auction and I should like, in view of the fact that this farm comprises 319 acres in this very congested area in which valuations are as low as £2 and £3, to impress strongly on the Land Commission the need for acquiring this land because there may never be such an opportunity again.

Surely it will be said this is a matter in which the Minister has no function?

I shall convey the Deputy's suggestion to the Minister.