asked the Minister for Lands whether the Land Commission are at present considering the acquisition of the Lalor Estate, Clonbar, Clonad, Portlaoise for division; whether he is aware that a very large portion of this estate has been let as conacre to people from outside the county while, at the same time, there are large numbers of uneconomic holdings in the Clonad area, the owners of which urgently need additional land.

Whilst there are no proceedings for acquisition of this 268 acre estate, the Land Commission are aware of the general circumstances relating to the property and are keeping the position under review.

Would the Parliamentary Secretary state if it is Government policy to allow extensive lettings of land in an area where there is a considerable number of uneconomic holders? I undersand that a survey was carried out recently by an inspector from the Department who called on some people in the area and not on others. That is why some people there have a fear the Minister might not be fully aware of the position.

As the Deputy is aware, the circumstances in this case are somewhat unusual, but, as I have said, the matter is being kept under review by the Land Commission.