asked the Minister for Lands if, in view of the great need of smallholders in the area for land, the Land Commission will acquire the Telford Estate, Raheen, Clara, Offaly, now offered for sale, for division among them.

32.

asked the Minister for Lands what is the present position in regard to the Telford Estate, Clara, County Offaly; and if it is proposed to have this farm acquired for division amongst the many local deserving applicants.

I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 31 and 32 together.

Whilst there are no proceedings for acquisition of this estate, certain negotiations affecting the property are pending but, for the present, these must be treated as confidential.