asked the Minister for Agriculture the present position regarding acquisition proceedings by the Land Commission against the Fallon estates at Cartronhugh, Ballintogher, County Sligo; and if he is aware that there are local smallholders who are anxious to increase their holdings and that this is the only land available for them to do so.

The Land Commissioners have carried out an inspection of these lands to determine their suitability for the purposes of land settlement in the locality and also to ascertain the extent of the congestion in the area. The report is at present being studied and it is expected that there will be an early decision in the matter.