andMr. C. Murphy asked the Minister for Lands whether the Land Commission proposes to acquire an estate (details supplied) in County Wicklow; and, if not, why.

The Land Commission have no proceedings for the acquisition of the property referred to but they are having the matter investigated.

Would the Minister accept that in that part of County Wicklow there would be many smallholders who, apart from being anxious, would be capable of utilising parts of that estate to great advantage?

The matter is being investigated and, of course, the number of smallholders who require portions of land would be the deciding factor there.

Would the Minister not give a firmer guarantee than that, that if this property comes up for sale the Land Commission will step in? Would the Minister not agree that the sale of this estate and its effect on the area is tantamount to a small factory closing in a town?

That is a matter for the Land Commissioners and I will certainly make them aware of it.

Can the Minister not give any indication of his interest in the matter?

I will certainly give an indication of my interest in the matter to the commissioners.

Is there any procedure, if the Land Commission were to acquire this estate, that a portion of it might be set aside for some form of industrial development in the future, which is badly needed in this county?

The Deputy is raising another matter.

It would not be the function of my Department. Certainly if there was a need for industrial development there we could get in touch with other Departments when and if we have the land.

Can I take it that the Minister will get in touch with other Departments and mention his interest in the matter?

When and if we have the land we will certainly investigate that matter. There is a when and if in it.