asked the Minister for Lands if he will consent to the sale of a holding in County Westmeath (details supplied); and if he is aware that this holding could be sold on the open market with advantage to the seller.

The Land Commission are at present carrying out an inspection of the property referred to with a view to determining whether acquisition proceedings should be instituted. Until such time as this inspection has been completed it is not possible to say what action will be taken in regard to the lands.

The question of the determination of what lands are to be acquired is reserved by law to the Land Commissioners and the Minister for Lands has no function in the matter.

47.

asked the Minister for Lands if he will consent to the sale of a holding in County Longford (details supplied); and when he will be in a position to do so.

I am informed that the Land Commission recently carried out an inspection of the holding concerned with a view to determining whether acquisition proceedings should be instituted. The report furnished is being studied and it is expected there will be an early decision in the matter.