asked the Minister for Lands if he will consider the abolition of the Land Commission and its replacement by a Land Purchase Corporation from which farmers could receive loans at low interest rates and thereby avoid the long delays in the allocation of allotments; and if he will consider making this scheme applicable only to small farmers.

As I have already stated in reply to previous questions, the future policy of the Land Commission and land policy in general is at present under active consideration by the Government, and pending the announcement of a decision I am not in a position to comment. The suggestion of loans to small farmers at special interest rates is among many matters which will arise for consideration.

Can the Minister say if the question of closing the Land Commission is under consideration?

No, not to my knowledge.

What does the Minister himself say about it? He mentioned very strong recommendations arising out of my earlier recommendations.

As I said, the whole question in relation to the operation of the Land Commission is being considered and when the decision is reached——

Would the Minister indicate the amount of money allocated to the Land Commission last year for the purchase and improvement of estates, and would he not agree that if more money were allocated to the Land Commission they would be in a better position to divide estates more quickly?

I have not got that information here, but the Deputy is aware that a very considerable amount of money is made available each year to the Land Commission both in cash and in bonds.

Cá bhfuil an tAire?

Ar obair oifigiúil.