Review of Land Commission policy
The Minister said he plans to review land settlement policy in light of EEC-era farming changes, with close cooperation from the Minister for Agriculture. Members raised concerns about development-farmer preference and allocations to older or non-working recipients; the Minister invited specific cases and said he would await the review. Question 47 was postponed at a member’s request.
asked the Minister for Lands if he is satisfied that Land Commission policy on re-settlement is suitable to present-day needs.
Comment on this
(Cavan): While recognising the substantial—if unacclaimed—work done by the Land Commission over the years, I have recently expressed the view that the time is ripe for taking a new look at our land settlement programme and procedures. Membership of the EEC has brought dramatic changes in our farming needs and prospects and the way ahead is indicated by the Community's structural directives. More and more farms are becoming highly developed and intensified and the establishment of rural industry highlights the position of the part-time farmer and his role in the emerging rural community. It is appropriate, therefore, to review our present land policy in the light of requirements of these changing circumstances and the Deputy may rest assured that I am giving the matter close thought just now.
Comment on this
Could I ask the Minister to have regard to the attitude of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries particularly in this matter? Contradictions are beginning to appear in regard to grant assistance and the aims and objectives in regard to land resettlement, that is, size of farms and so on.
Comment on this
(Cavan): In the review which I have in mind there will be close liaison between the Minister for Agriculture and me.
Comment on this
Would the Minister consider introducing changes in the Land Commission whereby preference will be given to farmers to enable them to enter the development class? Could the Minister ensure that there would not be a clash in the allocation of land between people who have been encouraged to surrender land under the retirement scheme? I have received a number of complaints regarding land being allocated to people over 70 years of age or people who are not working on the land.
Comment on this
(Cavan): I would be surprised if the information given by the Deputy is accurate. If the Deputy has any particular cases in mind, I would be glad to have them brought to my attention. In regard to what may emerge from the study which I propose making, I would prefer to deal with it when I have received a full report.
Comment on this
Could I ask that Question No. 47 be postponed? Deputy Tunney left the House in the belief that it would not be reached.