asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will meet a deputation to discuss the possibility of acquiring Ballinafad College, County Mayo.

I understand that the Land Commission have recently carried out a detailed inspection of the property referred to with a view to determining whether acquisition proceedings should be instituted and that they have obtained all the information necessary in relation to the matter.

In the circumstances I do not think that any useful purpose would be served by my meeting a deputation.

Is the Minister aware that this is one of the largest land holdings in Connacht and that there is very strong agitation among locals that the property be acquired for division? Would the Minister consider that, if he met a deputation, it would satisfy them in part in that they could put their case directly to the Minister?

Deputy Kenny understands that I already met a deputation on his instructions. The relevant notice has been served, inquiries are taking place at present and at this stage it would not serve any useful purpose if either I or the Minister met them.

When does the Minister expect a final decision for or against the acquistion to be made?

Inside the next couple of months, as soon as the reports come in.