Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:10 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if he will maintain funding for the arts at least at its current levels over the course of his term in office. [6192/11]
Written Answers
The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 9, inclusive, answered orally.
Arts Funding
As Minister responsible for the arts and culture sectors I am committed to securing the best possible funding provisions for these sectors for the period of my term of office. In my contribution last week on the implementation of the Programme for Government, I explained that it is this Government's intention to make the arts and culture part of our "primary script". In other words, it would no longer be regarded as a discretionary activity, but rather it is to be a central essential part of the narrative about the character of a new, different, changed and better Ireland.
As I said last week, I believe that in order to survive, grow and prosper as a country, we must look to the talent and ability of our people. The ability to innovate, to think afresh, and to be creative has to be nurtured and encouraged. I hold the view that dynamism in arts and culture induces dynamism in a country. This dynamism is realised through the process of stimulation through music, plays, books, films, works of art, design, in architecture and in crafts, all of which facilitates a country's capacity to be reflective, interested, and bold. I believe that the next 5 years can be an exciting time for the arts, culture and film sectors. The integration with them in one Department of the Irish language and heritage responsibility makes eminent sense and I look forward to seeking out and building on the self evident synergies between these areas.
Since 2006 the Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport has invested over €962m in the arts, culture and film sectors. The 2011 Estimates provide for almost €150 million investment in the sector. I am fully aware of the difficulties facing all of those involved in these areas and the tremendous work they have done in maximising the available resources. I am committed, over the term of office of this Government, to supporting the essential elements of the arts and culture sectors with limited available financial resources and in the light of the evolving Budgetary and Estimates' situations.
On the arts, culture and film area, over the course of the 5 years, this Government will continue to work to maintain employment levels in the sector. We will support the invaluable work of the Arts Council, the Film Board and Culture Ireland in maintaining the fundamental services provided to the arts and culture sectors. We will also continue to develop the priceless contribution of our cultural institutions to the overall well-being of our community. We want to grow the engagement with the arts from the community up, with particular reference to young people.
We will make strategic policy formulation the primary function of the Department. We will encourage the Arts Council to continue to dedicate resources to touring. We will work with stakeholders in the Arts community to develop new proposals aimed at building private support of the Arts in Ireland exploring philanthropic, sponsorship or endowment fund opportunities. We will develop a cultural plan for future commemorative events such as the Centenary of the Easter Rising in 2016. We will promote genealogical tourism by updating the National Cultural Institutions Act and look to publish the 1926 census to stimulate genealogy tourism. We will encourage greater co-operation between local authorities to promote the arts and in developing cultural tourism.
It is my intention that at the end of term of this Government we will be able to report that the arts and culture sectors have grown and flourished.
Question No. 11 answered with Question No. 7.
Tourism Promotion
Charlie McConalogue
Question:12 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport his tourism strategy for County Donegal. [6148/11]
I wish to advise the Deputy that, under the National Tourism Development Authority Act, Fáilte Ireland has the devolved function to encourage, promote and support the development and marketing of tourist facilities and services within the State. Therefore, the matter raised by the Deputy is for Fáilte Ireland to consider as part of its day-to-day activities to support the tourism sector.
However, the Deputy may be interested to know that I am informed by Fáilte Ireland that a number of the key developments/events planned for Donegal in 2011 include:
€2.3 million will be invested by Fáilte Ireland to support the development of visitor infrastructure and walks at Slieve League.
The ‘Donegal Live' Arts and Culture Showcase events are planned for Glasgow and Dublin in May 2011.
A joint Showcase of Derry and Donegal will take place in Milwaukee, United States in August 2011.
The European Surfing Championships will take place in Donegal in September.
40 International Golf Tour Operators will visit Donegal this month with a view to bringing golfers to the area; and
A public/private joint marketing campaign for hotels in Donegal will take place this year to target the domestic market.
Question No. 13 answered with Question No. 9.
London Olympics
Dessie Ellis
Question:14 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the steps he will take to attract national Olympic teams from various countries to use Ireland as a springboard and preparation centre in advance of the London Olympics. [6209/11]
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn
Question:16 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the steps he will take to ensure that Ireland capitalises on the London Olympics in terms of attracting tourists to visit here. [6205/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 16 together.
A high-level coordinating group, chaired by my Department, is identifying opportunities that may arise across the sports, tourism and cultural sectors, from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The group comprises representatives from Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, the Arts Council, Culture Ireland, the Irish Sports Council, the Olympic Council of Ireland, the Paralympic Council of Ireland and the Department of Foreign Affairs.
One of the issues that the London 2012 coordinating group is looking at is Ireland's potential to attract international teams and athletes for training camps in the lead up to London 2012. The American Olympic Synchronized Swimming Squad has chosen the National Aquatic Centre as its pre-Olympic Training Base. The Great Britain Paralympic Swimming Squad has also signed up for a week's training at the Centre in November 2011. The Department and various sports facilities are working on attracting other teams to train here.
The Tourism Agencies are also working hard to maximise the potential benefits to Irish tourism of having the Olympics in London. For example they are targeting tourists from London who may wish to get away from the city during the games. They are also working with UK inbound tour operators to divert people to Ireland who cannot be accommodated in London during the games given the reduced accommodation and carrier capacity that will be available there. The high-level coordinating group will continue to meet on an ongoing basis to maximise opportunities and obviously this will influence the benefits to Ireland.
Heritage Donations
Pearse Doherty
Question:15 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the amount of tax relief for heritage donations awarded during each of the past five years under section 1003 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997; the number of persons who availed of the scheme during each year; if he will provide details of their donations. [6202/11]
Section 1003 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, formerly Section 176 of the Finance Act 1995, is a scheme of tax relief for the donation of heritage items to the National Collections. Under the Scheme heritage items that are considered outstanding examples of their type and that are pre-eminent in their class, whose export from the State would constitute a diminution of the accumulated cultural heritage of Ireland, or whose import into the State would constitute a significant enhancement of the accumulated cultural heritage of Ireland, and which are considered suitable additions to the accumulated heritage of the State, may be donated to an approved body.
Since 2006 a total of 17 individual donations assessed to a value totalling €16,494,984.72 have been made.
In 2006 there were 5 individual donations assessed to a value totalling €5,720,694.86, 6 persons or companies received tax relief in lieu of these donations.
In 2007 there were 4 individual donations assessed to a value totalling €5,273,320.17, 9 persons or companies received tax relief in lieu of these donations.
In 2008 there were 7 individual donations assessed to a value totalling €5,348,969.68, 12 persons or companies received tax relief in lieu of these donations.
There were no donations made in 2009.
In 2010 there was one individual donation assessed to a value totalling €152,000, one person received tax relief in lieu of this donation.
It should be noted that Section 94, Finance (No. 2 Act) 2008 changed the amount of tax relief available from 100% to 80% of the market value of the item. This applies to the 2010 donation. All previous donations received 100% of the market value.
I would like to highlight to the Deputy that information on each donation that has been made to date under this scheme is published on the Department's website with the year, name, value and receiving institution for the donation listed. Examples of the items donated include “On the Bridge at Grez” by Sir John Lavery donated to the National Gallery of Ireland, the “Benjamin Iveagh Library at Farmleigh House” donated to Archbishop Marsh’s Library and “Il Trovatore c.1960” by Giorgio de Chirico donated to the Irish Museum of Modern Art.
This is a very worthwhile scheme and donations under Section 1003 collectively and individually have added to the national and international reputations of the Institutions involved. They have also preserved for common ownership significant works, artefacts and collections that could otherwise have left the State or in some cases that would never have been returned.
Question No. 16 answered with Question No. 14.
Departmental Programmes
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:17 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport his plans to change the sports capital programme and the local swimming pool programme. [6188/11]
Brian Stanley
Question:19 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport his plans to provide age appropriate sports and recreational facilities in different types of population centres. [6190/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 19 together.
Under the terms of the Sports Capital Programme grants are allocated to sporting organisations towards the provision of new facilities, the renovation/extension of existing facilities or the purchase of non-personal sports equipment. Since 1998, almost €740 million has been allocated to over 7,400 projects nationwide. No decision has been made on the timing of the next round of the Sports Capital Programme. While no new call for applications for funding has been made since 2008 a provision of €33m has been provided in this year's estimates to cover the payment of grants previously allocated.
The Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme is administered by my Department. The programme provides grant aid towards the capital costs of new public swimming pools or the refurbishment of existing public swimming pools provided by local authorities themselves or by other bodies where the application for capital funding is supported by the local authority. The current round of the programme closed to new applicants in July 2000.
The programme provides for maximum grant aid of €3.8m per project. There are four principal stages which must be undertaken by a local authority in developing a swimming pool project. These are Preliminary Report (including Feasibility Study), Contract Documents, Tender stage and finally Construction stage. Local authorities may not proceed to the next stage of a project until prior approval issues from my Department. Grant aid is formally allocated when the tender is approved. My Department's technical advisers, the Office of Public Works (OPW), evaluate each stage.
The policy since 2000 has been to give priority to the completion of the 58 projects within the current round. Of these 58 projects, 46 have been completed and 12 others are at various stages in the programme. Cumulative grant expenditure by my Department under the programme from 2000 to date is €145.8m and this grant aid has leveraged total investment of some €406m in the 48 public swimming pools approved grant aid. The allocation of €6.65m in 2011 will be sufficient to meet commitments arising in 2011 under the current round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme.
The Department has previously completed and published a Value for Money and Policy Review Report of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme. The report examined, among other things, how the programme has worked to date and what changes are required to ensure its effective and efficient delivery. The terms and conditions of any new round of the programme will be devised taking into account the recommendations of the report.
Abbey Theatre
Mary Lou McDonald
Question:18 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the position regarding plans for the relocation of the Abbey Theatre including its possible location. [6185/11]
In the previous Government's Renewed Programme for Government there was a commitment to a detailed assessment of the GPO complex in the context of locating the Abbey Theatre there in time for the Centenary of the 1916 Rising. This was the only location examined. This is not a commitment of the present Government.
The development of any national infrastructure is not a simple challenge. Involving the GPO and the Abbey in a shared enterprise creates a project of intense complexity. A Feasibility Group of the primary stakeholders was established by my predecessor. Its membership included representatives from the Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport, the Office of Public Works, the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, An Post and the Abbey Theatre. The group has concluded its assessment of the GPO complex to ascertain if it would be a feasible location for the redeveloped national theatre.
Among the main considerations that were assessed were:
the capacity of the GPO to accommodate the brief agreed for the Abbey Theatre,
the integration of theatre infrastructure into the street and skyscape and the feasibility from a planning perspective of any redevelopment proposal,
the cost of the construction, the nature of the title to the site, and the terms and conditions of leases, indentures, mortgages, liens, etc., thereon; and
the costs of lease terminations and other commercial and corporate issues for An Post.
I am currently studying that report and intend to bring the matter to Cabinet shortly for a final decision in the matter.
Question No. 19 answered with Question No. 17.
Tourism Promotion
Robert Troy
Question:20 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if he will increase funding to the tourism marketing fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6146/11]
Michael Colreavy
Question:27 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport his plans for the tourism marketing fund. [6194/11]
Robert Troy
Question:30 Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the way he plans to market Ireland in China, Russia, India, Japan and the Middle East in order to increase tourist numbers from those countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6147/11]
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn
Question:31 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the details of the proposed marketing campaigns in emerging long-haul markets set out in the programme for Government and the proposed revamped tourism strategy. [6206/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20, 27, 30 and 31 together.
The Government fully recognises the significant role that the tourism sector can play in Ireland's economic recovery. After declines in overseas visitor numbers in each of the last three years, we are determined, working with the tourism agencies and the industry, that 2011 will mark a turning point for the sector and that we see a return to growth in both overseas visitor numbers and associated revenue. An extensive range of marketing, product development, festival and sporting events, training and business supports are being put in place by the Tourism State Agencies under the Tourism Services budget of the Department, which is €148 million for 2011. Within this total, I am assured that the provision of €41.473 million for this year's Tourism Marketing Fund will ensure that the level and value of investment in overseas marketing of Ireland can be maintained in real terms in 2011 and allow Tourism Ireland to fully implement its proposed marketing strategy for the year. More generally, allocations for the Tourism Marketing Fund are decided by Government within the overall budgetary and Estimates process and will be considered in that context.
In terms of operational decisions on how the marketing allocation is spent in the different markets, this is a matter for the relevant agency, Tourism Ireland, which has the function of promoting the island of Ireland overseas as a tourist destination under the Good Friday Agreement. Having noted that, I am pleased to advise the House of the following main features of Tourism Ireland's work in the markets this year.
Overall, €28 million is being invested by Tourism Ireland in a marketing drive in the first half of the year. This included the recent promotional programme of activities to showcase Ireland during the St. Patrick's Day period, including the "greening" of iconic buildings and attractions around the world including the London Eye, the Moulin Rouge in Paris, Burj Al Arab in Dubai and Table Mountain in South Africa.
I am advised that, in Ireland's most important overseas market, Great Britain, Tourism Ireland is increasing its marketing investment by 30%. It will have a year-round presence on TV, radio, online and on social media. Tourism Ireland’s publicity programme in Britain will deliver further positive coverage across all media worth in excess of €65 million in advertising value.
In North America, Tourism Ireland’s spring advertising campaign was launched on 23 February with radio advertisements in cities with good air access to Ireland — including New York, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Dallas and Houston. In addition co-operative marketing campaigns with all the relevant airlines are planned or are under way.
In Germany a €2.1 million TV campaign is under way, on prime time TV across seven top German stations. In France, a spring TV advertising campaign commenced on 16 March and will reach 14 million potential holidaymakers. This campaign is supported by online promotions with partners including Aer Lingus, Air France, Irish Ferries, Brittany Ferries, B&B Ireland and others.
Turning to some of the new and developing markets, while Tourism Ireland's focus in the short term will be on driving significant numbers from the traditional key markets outlined above, visitors from emerging long-haul markets stay twice as long as the average holidaymaker, and have the highest spend per visit. Accordingly, Tourism Ireland is implementing a series of innovative marketing and publicity campaigns and travel trade programmes to raise the profile of Ireland.
Tourism Ireland's regional hub office in the United Arab Emirates, which has been operating since 2009, oversees Tourism Ireland's operations in the Asia-Pacific region, including China, India, Japan and the Middle East. Tourism Ireland also has offices in Shanghai and Beijing in China and Mumbai in India. Tourism Ireland is also working with relevant airlines in the developing markets to encourage and promote direct and indirect access to the island of Ireland. Tourism Ireland is also working closely in these markets with other Government Departments and agencies, in line with the Strategy for Trade, Investment and Tourism, to promote Ireland.
The above outlines just some of the key activities that will be undertaken by Tourism Ireland using the Tourism Marketing Fund this year. Additional information can be found in Tourism Ireland's 2011 Marketing Plan which is available on their website. I am confident that the resources and plans are sufficient to ensure that we do see a return to growth in both numbers and associated revenues from our important markets this year.
Air Services
Dessie Ellis
Question:21 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport when he plans to negotiate with airlines (details supplied) to re-open closed routes. [6210/11]
I refer the Deputy to my earlier reply to Priority Question No. 1, in the name of Deputy McConalogue, in which I outlined the position on this matter.
Tourism Industry
Brian Stanley
Question:22 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the available resources for developing and co-ordinating niche tourism such as eco-tourism. [6189/11]
I wish to advise the Deputy, that under the National Tourism Development Authority Act, Fáilte Ireland has the devolved function to encourage, promote and support the development and marketing of tourist facilities and services within the State. I am informed that Fáilte Ireland is closely involved in the development of a nationwide eco-tourism certification programme. In addition, in order to establish a nationwide standard in eco-tourism and green labelling, Fáilte Ireland is in the process of establishing a validation scheme. This means that the labels and certification programmes that exist in Ireland for green tourism businesses and eco-tourism will have the option to go through an independent scheme in order to be validated, and therefore promoted, by Fáilte Ireland.
Eco-tourism will continue to be a niche part of natural heritage and will be prioritised in the context of available resources. It is recognised that eco-tourism raises the bar for everyone involved in nature-based tourism in Ireland and therefore has an importance in generally encouraging awareness of good practice and appreciation of our natural environment.
National Library
Martin Ferris
Question:23 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the date on which he will publish legislation to update the National Cultural Institutions Act in order to put the Genealogical Office on a statutory footing. [6196/11]
Under the terms of the National Cultural Institutions Act, 1997 the Genealogical Office is on a statutory footing as a branch of the National Library of Ireland.
Film Industry Development
Mary Lou McDonald
Question:24 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport his plans to support the Irish cinema sector. [6186/11]
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the Irish audiovisual sector. Primary responsibility for the support and promotion of film-making in Ireland, in respect of both the indigenous sector and inward productions, is a matter for the Irish Film Board (IFB). This agency is funded through my Department and is independent in its day-to-day operations.
My Department's operational role in supporting the film sector relates to the administration of elements of Section 481 of the Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997. Under that provision tax relief is allowed for investments in qualifying films. This involves the administration of certain elements of the scheme regarding satisfying cultural criteria. The types of film eligible for certification are feature film, television drama, creative documentary and animation. This scheme is kept under regular review in conjunction with the Irish Film Board and any enhancements necessary to retain or regain competitiveness are addressed and brought to the attention of the Minister for Finance as appropriate. The scheme has now been extended to the end of 2015.
It is important to underline that the audiovisual sector makes a strong contribution in employment and economic terms. The Irish audiovisual sector was valued at €557.3 million in 2008, equivalent to 0.3% of GDP, and employs almost 7,000 people in about 570 companies. I am sure that the Deputy appreciates that the benefits of film and television production in Ireland include not only job creation in the industry itself but also huge positive spin-off effects for promoting Ireland as a tourist destination and as an industrial location for all aspects of creative endeavour. Currently, I am finalizing a five-year strategy for the sector and I propose to bring that strategy to Government in the near future.
Departmental Funding
Sandra McLellan
Question:25 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the extent, if any, of capital or current funding provided for sporting or cultural activities in County Cork for each of the past four years, both from the proceeds of the national lottery and other sources; the intended future expenditure from each source for the coming year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6183/11]
The information requested by the Deputy in respect of the years 2007 to 2010, inclusive, is as set out in tabular form below. Future funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, so it is not possible to provide an estimate of expenditure on sporting or cultural activities in County Cork for the coming year.
|
Type of Funding |
Recipient of Funding |
Allocation Amount |
|
€ |
||
|
Year 2007 |
||
|
Cultural |
Crawford Art Gallery |
1,980,000 |
|
Cultural |
Glenans Sailing Club |
2,389 |
|
Cultural |
Briary Gap Cultural Centre, Macroom |
30,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cloyne Diocesan Youth Service, Community Hall, Mallow |
20,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cork Arts Theatre, Carroll’s Quay, Cork |
150,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cork Opera House, Emmet Place, Cork |
1,500,000 |
|
Cultural |
Everyman Palace Theatre, MacCurtain Street, Cork |
500,000 |
|
Cultural |
Firkin Crane, Shandon, Cork |
100,000 |
|
Cultural |
Glen Theatre, Banteer |
20,000 |
|
Cultural |
Graffiti Theatre, Blackpool, Cork |
250,000 |
|
Cultural |
Laharn Community Hall, Lombardstown, Mallow |
20,000 |
|
Cultural |
National Sculpture Factory, Albert Road, Cork |
450,000 |
|
Cultural |
Triskel Arts Centre, Tobin Street, Cork |
69,750 |
|
Cultural |
West Cork Arts Centre, Skibereen |
1,500,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cork Butter Museum |
30,000 |
|
Cultural |
University College Cork |
200,000 |
|
Sporting |
A full list of allocations made under the Sports Capital Programme is available on the Department’s website. |
9,972,300 |
|
2007 Subtotal |
16,794,439 |
|
|
Year 2008 |
||
|
Cultural |
Crawford Art Gallery |
1,991,000 |
|
Cultural |
An Scannánlann, Cork Film Archive, Fairhill, Cork |
34,000 |
|
Cultural |
Ballinspittle Community Centre |
13,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cloyne Diocesan Youth Centre, Community Hall, Mallow |
20,000 |
|
Cultural |
Sirius Arts Centre, Cobh |
1,600,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cork City Council |
10,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cork Butter Museum |
30,000 |
|
Cultural |
University College Cork |
80,000 |
|
Sporting |
A full list of allocations made under the Sports Capital Programme is available on the Department’s website. |
4,485,000 |
|
2008 Subtotal |
8,263,000 |
|
|
Year 2009 |
||
|
Cultural |
Crawford Art Gallery |
1,753,000 |
|
Cultural |
Triskel Arts Centre |
125,000 |
|
Cultural |
Tigh Filí |
10,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cork Butter Museum |
30,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cork City Council |
10,000 |
|
Sporting |
Cobh Swimming Pool |
190,461 |
|
2009 Subtotal |
2,118,461 |
|
|
Year 2010 |
||
|
Cultural |
Crawford Art Gallery |
1,579,000 |
|
Cultural |
Tigh Filí |
10,000 |
|
Cultural |
Glucksman Gallery, UCC |
75,000 |
|
Cultural |
Tigh Filí, St. Lukes, Cork |
50,000 |
|
Cultural |
Triskel Arts Centre, Tobin Street, Cork |
100,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cork City Council |
10,000 |
|
Cultural |
Cork Butter Museum |
30,000 |
|
2010 Subtotal |
1,854,000 |
|
|
Total |
29,029,900 |
I wish to advise the Deputy that no new allocations under the Arts and Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme and the Sports Capital Programme have been made since 2008. No decision on a new round of these schemes has been made.
Tourism, Culture and Sport Sectors
Peadar Tóibín
Question:26 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if he has had any discussions with tourism, sport and recreational groups coming within the aegis of his Department with a view to promoting their respective sectors and maximising employment opportunities. [6200/11]
Peadar Tóibín
Question:34 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the extent to which he has evaluated economic potential and job creation throughout the various sectors under the aegis of his Department; his plans for the future in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6199/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 26 and 34 together.
Tourism
The Report of the Tourism Renewal Group, Survival, Recovery and Growth — A Strategy for Renewing Irish Tourism 2009-2013, sets out tourism’s contribution to Ireland’s economic, social and cultural development and the prospects for Irish tourism in a changed world. It also puts forward a Framework for Action for tourism’s survival, recovery and growth over the period to 2013.
Tourism has taken a more central role across economic, employment and trade policy in the past two years, in light of the difficulties facing the Irish economy. The Strategy and Action Plan for Irish Trade, Tourism and Investment to 2015, Trading and Investing in a Smart Economy, contains targets for job creation, exports, tourist numbers and inward investment projects by 2015 as well as how Government and agencies will work towards those targets. Its tourism elements draw on the Tourism Renewal Group in its Report and Framework for Action, setting a target of increasing visitor numbers to 8 million by 2015 and providing for 15,000 new jobs to be generated directly in tourism.
Drawing on the Tourism Renewal Group, Trading and Investing in a Smart Economy, reiterates the scope to develop both the leisure and business tourism sectors and highlights certain areas where Ireland may have a particular competitive advantage. The Strategy recognises that in the short to medium term, Ireland’s best prospects are in the United States, Great Britain and the major European markets, which is reflected in Tourism Ireland’s overseas marketing plan for 2011.
The four-year National Recovery Plan explicitly recognises the tourism industry as a labour-intensive sector that could provide job opportunities and foreign revenue earnings as the economy recovers. It prioritises continued investment in and promotion of the tourism product. Funding under the National Recovery Plan is to enable the upgrading of tourist attractions, the development of a number of key iconic attractions and the improvement of infrastructure in growth areas such as walking, water-based activities, cycling and heritage. Continued investment was also promised to enhance and promote cultural tourism, eco-tourism and conference business across the country.
Building on the framework as set out above, the new Programme for Government recognises the importance of tourism with the following actions identified:
International access is vital to tourism recovery. We will abolish the €3 travel tax subject to a deal being agreed with Ryanair and Aer Lingus to re-open closed routes and bring more tourists into Ireland. If no deal can be done, there will be no reduction in the tax.
We will prioritise the Tourism Marketing Fund as an essential pillar of our tourism strategy and will ensure the best return on Exchequer spending.
We will explore the possibility of a new agreement on visitor visas with the UK, offering tourists the opportunity to visit the UK and Ireland with one visa, at a reasonable cost, to tap into the tourism market for significant events such as the forthcoming London 2012 Olympics.
Marketing campaigns will be developed in emerging long-haul markets such as China, Russia, India, Japan and the Middle East, using the Tourism Marketing Fund. Recovery of market share in Britain will also be a key priority in a revamped tourism strategy.
Improving the e-capability of our tourism product will be a priority.
We will target available resources at developing and co-ordinating niche tourism products and activity packages that are attractive to international visitors focusing on food, sports, culture, ecotourism, activity breaks, water-based recreation and festivals.
Event tourism will be prioritised to continue to bring major fairs and events to Ireland, such as the Volvo Ocean Race and Solheim Cup.
Culture
Moving to the importance of the arts, culture and creative industries to Irish society and to our economy, I am conscious not only of the role of the sector in providing vital opportunities for self-expression and participation but also of the economic potential of the arts and creative industries. At the same time, while our arts, culture and heritage are important contributors to sustainable economic recovery, their contribution should never be measured in financial terms alone. Rather, they should be appreciated also for the social, cultural and educative benefits that they bring to communities large and small around the country.
Government policy in relation to the arts will continue to be enabled and implemented through the agencies and institutions within my Department, namely the Arts Council, the Irish Film Board and Culture Ireland as well as the cultural institutions within my Department's remit.
My Department provides funding for a number of cultural events throughout the year which are specifically designed to promote the value of our cultural heritage and cultural activities. These include events such as Culture Night when arts and cultural organisations throughout the country extend their opening hours to provide the public with increased free access to the various collections, workshops and other events hosted by the organisations.
My Department also continues to support the cultural tourism product on offer, particularly in the use and deployment of smart technologies. In 2010, my Department launched a new initiative, the Cultural Technology Grant Scheme, the aim of which was to use a variety of the best new and existing technology methods to deliver a promotional, educational or information product to promote the Irish arts, culture and creative sectors. Funding in excess of €1 million was provided to 25 projects to showcase the best of our Irish art, music, culture and heritage in the most exciting, innovative and dynamic ways.
Another example of an innovative project supported by my Department was the provision of Church Baptism, Marriage and Death genealogy records on the website www.irishgenealogy.ie. This should help generate interest in genealogical research into family histories and encourage roots tourism.
Sport
Similar considerations to those in the cultural arena apply to our sporting heritage, which contributes not just to the personal and social development of communities across the country but also to the economic wellbeing of the country. For example, based on an analysis by my Department, every €26,700 allocated by the Department under the Sports Capital Programme supports one job in the construction sector. Moreover, thanks to the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, a new 25-metre swimming pool with a modern gymnasium supports 12 full-time and 12 part-time jobs.
There is also a very extensive financial dividend to be obtained through the success of major sporting events, particularly those with an international dimension. Through a variety of actions and investments, Ireland is developing an enviable reputation as a destination to play and watch sports. Stadia such the Aviva, Croke Park, Semple and Thomond Park attract international and domestic tourists in large numbers throughout the year. The targeting of major international sporting events such as the Ryder and Solheim Cups in golf, the Volvo Ocean Race and the Irish Open golf tournament attracts tourists and also showcases the country in the best possible light.
The Assessment of Economic Impact of Sport in Ireland report, which was prepared for the Irish Sports Council in 2010, states that Government investment plays an important role in supporting and driving the wider economic benefits of sport. This report demonstrated that there is a very significant return on Government investment and expenditure on sport in Ireland. Based on figures for 2008, it is estimated that overall Government expenditure on grants, capital investment and other sport-related expenditures amounted to €618.3 million. However, the Government sector as a whole received €922.4 million in revenues from taxes on sport-supported expenditures and incomes, in addition to revenues from sports facilities. This implies a net income to the Government sector arising from the sport economy amounting to €304.1 million. In other words, for every €100 of Government expenditure, the Government receives approximately €149 back in the form of taxes and other income arising from sport-related economic activity.
In summary, the tourism, culture and sport sectors have demonstrable ability to contribute to economic recovery and job creation, and the new Government will engage with the key stakeholders to ensure that this potential is fully realised.
Question No. 27 answered with Question No. 20.
Culture Sector
Gerry Adams
Question:28 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport his plans to increase awareness of the value and benefit of cultural activities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6204/11]
The Department of Tourism, Culture and Sport provides annual funding to the National Cultural Institutions which are directly involved in promoting and increasing awareness in the value and benefit of cultural activities. As well as the normal promotion of events and programmes for which they are responsible, each of our National Cultural Institutions provides Community and Outreach programmes which include targeted events for the members of the community e.g. older persons, children, families, socially disadvantaged group etc.
The National Museum of Ireland has long been a resource for primary, secondary and third level students and educators, providing a broad range of services — including guided tours; demonstrations and workshops; an information and resource service; professional development courses and activities for teachers. The Museum's Education & Outreach department organises in-service courses for teachers annually.
The National Concert Hall's Learn & Explore team is dedicated to bringing the finest musicians from The National Concert Hall out into schools and communities across Ireland to deliver the best in music education. Each summer, the team organises in-service primary school teacher training which is accredited by the Department of Education and Skills as a Teacher Education Summer Course. The National Concert Hall also hosts summer camps that cater for all ages and all instruments.
The Irish Museum of Modern Art's (IMMA) Education and Community Programme aims to foster within society an increased awareness and understanding of the visual arts by creating innovative and inclusive opportunities for people to engage with the Museum's exhibitions and programmes, both as audience members and participants. It also seeks to create opportunities for meaningful exchanges between artists and the public. The Museum's Education and Community Programme is informed by models of practice which are designed to meet the needs of specific groups and to address targeted education needs. These models are documented and evaluated and their outcomes inform a broader programme which can provide access for a wide range of people.
Whilst IMMA caters for the needs of all groups interested in using the Museum as a resource, it has also developed a number of programmes and projects intended to address the needs of specific groups, such as schools and colleges.
The National Gallery of Ireland also has a range of educational and outreach programmes, i.e.:
Lifelong Learning Events
Children's & Families Programme
Outreach Programme
Teachers & Schools Programme
A lecture series throughout the Winter
As well as providing funding to the National Cultural Institutions, the Department also provides annual funding to a number of other cultural institutions which are equally important in increasing awareness in the value and benefit of cultural activities. These include the Hunt Museum, Archbishop Marsh's Library, the Foynes Flying Boat Museum, the National Print Museum as well as regional and local museums throughout the country.
The Department also provides funding for a number of cultural events throughout the year which are specifically designed to promote the value of our cultural heritage and cultural activities. These include events such as Culture Night, Dublin Contemporary 2011 and the Cultural Technology Grant Scheme.
Tourism Promotion
Seán Crowe
Question:29 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if he will ensure close community consultation in developing sustainable tourism and outline the methods by which such consultation will take place. [6207/11]
I wish to advise the Deputy that under the National Tourism Development Authority Act, Fáilte Ireland has the devolved function to encourage, promote and support the development and marketing of tourist facilities and services within the State. Sustainable tourism requires a balance to be struck between the needs of the visitor, the place and the host community. It has long been recognised that what is good for communities is generally good for tourism. Communities have a significant role to play in sustainable tourism development in Ireland and should also benefit from a sustainable tourism industry.
Fáilte Ireland — the National Tourism Development Authority — continues to develop and support sustainable tourism development at community level in a number of ways, from funding of festivals, investment in local infrastructure and business development supports to provision of research and insights. These supports are delivered primarily through the development of clusters or networks on the ground, made up of tourism and non-tourism stakeholders, brought together to ensure sustainable tourism development in these areas. A critical part of these networks is the feedback provided by these groups so that future interventions can be tailored to meet the needs of these stakeholders.
Questions Nos. 30 and 31 answered with Question No. 20.
Sport and Recreational Development
Seán Crowe
Question:32 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the date on which the national sports facilities strategy will be published. [6208/11]
I refer the Deputy to my reply earlier today to Priority Question No. 3 in the name of Deputy Wallace.
Question No. 33 answered with Question No. 7.
Question No. 34 answered with Question No. 26.
Jonathan O'Brien
Question:35 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport his plans to address the impact of social disadvantage on various forms of participation in sport. [6197/11]
The Irish Sports Council was established on a statutory basis on 1 July, 1999, and the functions of the Council are outlined in Section 6 of the Irish Sports Council Act 1999. Section 6(1)(a) states that one of the functions of the Council shall be “to encourage the promotion, development and coordination of competitive sport and the achievement of excellence in competitive sport.” Section6(1)(b) states, as one of the functions of the Council, that the ISC has responsibility for developing “strategies for increasing participation in recreational sport and to coordinate their implementation by all bodies (including public authorities and publicly funded bodies) involved in promoting recreational sport and providing recreational facilities”. The ISC operates participation programmes specifically aimed at disadvantaged communities. Details of these are available from the Council and on their website.
Tourism Promotion
Jonathan O'Brien
Question:36 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if he will support the development of significant tourism projects between councils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6198/11]
I wish to advise the Deputy, that under the National Tourism Development Authority Act, Fáilte Ireland has the devolved function to encourage, promote and support the development and marketing of tourist facilities and services within the State. In this context, Fáilte Ireland operates the Tourism Capital Investment Programme, which provides support for capital investment in tourism infrastructure, visitor attractions and visitor activities. Under this programme, Fáilte Ireland has provided grant support to local authorities in projects such as Mizen Bridge, Waterford Viking Triangle, Tralee Lee Valley, Mayo Greenway and Slieve League to name but a few. Fáilte Ireland continues to work closely with local authorities, both collectively and individually, and is open to consider any future proposals for the development of eligible projects that local authorities may have.
Passport Applications
Jack Wall
Question:37 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason a parent (details supplied) has not been allowed a passport for their son given that the child was born here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6293/11]
A passport application for the child in question was made in July, 2010. This was done under the provisions of the Passports Act, 2008, which provides, that this Department must be satisfied that an applicant is an Irish citizen before issuing him/her a passport. As the child was born in the State in April 2010, his entitlement to Irish citizenship is governed by Section 6A of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended (the 1956 Act). This Act provides that a person, who is born in the State on or after 1 January, 2005 and does not have a parent who is either an Irish or British citizen or otherwise entitled to reside in the State or Northern Ireland without restriction, may claim citizenship by birth in the State (and thereby establish eligibility for a passport) only where a parent has been lawfully resident in the State for three of the four years preceding the birth of the child.
This Department assesses such applications in line with guidelines provided by the Department of Justice and Law Reform, which is responsible for citizenship and immigration. Under these guidelines, the proofs of lawful residence, which are accepted and considered in connection with passport applications, are immigration stamps in passports or the registration cards/books which are given to persons registering with the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). These are official documents, which can be objectively verified and are relied on by the Department in the processing of passport applications.
In line with the requirements of the 1956 Act, the lawful residence in the State of the applicant's mother in the four year period preceding her son's date of birth was examined. Based on the evidence of immigration stamps in her passport, which were verified in writing by GNIB, the total amount of reckonable residence did not meet with the statutory requirement of three years. As the child's entitlement to Irish citizenship had not been demonstrated, the Department could not issue a passport to him.
The Department wrote to the applicant's mother on 1 December, 2010 to explain its decision and to give one month's notice of passport refusal unless further evidence was provided to the Department that would increase the amount of her reckonable residence to the legal requirement. I understand a copy of this correspondence was sent to you.
You replied, on behalf of the applicant, to the Department's letter on 22 December, 2010 and provided further documentation such as tax documents and salary details to show the applicant's mother presence in the State. Unfortunately, these documents could not be accepted as they do not fall within the strict category of proofs (i.e. immigration stamps and cards) of lawful residence that are acceptable in this type of passport application. As no other evidence was provided in your letter, the applicant's entitlement to Irish citizenship remained undemonstrated and thus no passport could issue.
This was explained by the Department in a letter to you, dated 30 December, 2010. This letter also advised that the Department of Justice and Law Reform is the Department responsible for citizenship and immigration matters and that any issues relating to lawful residence of the applicant's mother in the State is a matter for that Department. No action was taken at that stage in terms of passport refusal. Instead, the Department extended the deadline date for the proposed refusal to 18 February, 2011. This was done to give time to the applicant's mother to pursue, if she wished, the question of her residence and the implications that this has on her son's entitlement to Irish citizenship with the Department of Justice and Law Reform.
Since then, no further evidence has been provided by the applicant's mother. Accordingly, the passport was refused under the terms of the Passports Act, 2008. The Department wrote to the applicant's mother on 22 February, 2011 to inform her of this. A refund of the passport fee was subsequently made to the applicant's mother.
Tax Code
Michael McGrath
Question:38 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding a subcontractor certificate for a business (details supplied) in County Cork. [6262/11]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the Certificate of Authorisation (C2) has not been issued in the case of this company as there are outstanding liabilities by the company for 2009 and 2010. Also, the company has not submitted the following returns, which are overdue:
Corporation Tax Return for the accounting period ended 31/3/10 due on 21/12/10.
RCT 35 for the year 2010.
RCT 30's for December 2010, January 2011 and February 2011.
P30's for January and February 2011.
Regarding the offset of rebates from the Department of Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation, payment of €6,275 was set against the company's P35 liability for 2009. Revenue are awaiting confirmation of the availability of a further of €3,075.07 for offset. This was requested on 13 August 2010 and 19 October 2010, but no reply has been received to date.
Schools Refurbishment
Brendan Griffin
Question:39 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) in County Kerry will qualify for the summer works scheme. [6236/11]
I can confirm that the school referred to by the Deputy submitted an application for external works under the 2011 Summer Works Scheme. Unfortunately, due to the scale of demand for funding under the scheme, it was not possible to grant aid all applications. As outlined in the Circular governing the operation of the scheme, applications for works in the higher categories were prioritised and it was not possible to include the school referred to by the Deputy in the list of 453 successful schools that were announced yesterday.
Pupil-Teacher Ratio
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn
Question:40 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will commit to reversing the decision to increase the pupil-teacher ratio in Irish-medium schools to that of mainstream schools; his views that it will have a detrimental effect on Gaelscoileanna leading to job losses for teachers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6280/11]
The standardisation of the staffing schedule for Gaelscoileanna so that it is the same as that which applies to primary schools generally is one of a number of measures in Budget 2011 to control and reduce teacher numbers. These changes are effective from September 2011. Given the financial constraints in which this country now finds itself, it is not possible to reverse these changes.
The Gaelscoileanna movement is well established and I do not believe that the growth of Gaelscoileanna will be impeded by way of this measure. This change will result in a reduction of the order of 50 posts in Gaelscoileanna. There are currently a total of over 1,500 teaching posts in these schools. The actual impact at individual school level is determined as part of the allocation process for 2011/12 school year and schools are being notified in the normal manner.
This Government will endeavour to protect front line education services as best as possible. However, this must be done within the context of bringing our overall public expenditure back into line with what we can afford as a country. All areas of Government, including Gaelscoileanna, will have to manage on a reduced level of resources. The challenge will be to ensure that the resources that are being provided are used to maximum effect.
State Examinations
Martin Ferris
Question:41 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Skills the steps he will take to ensure that a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will be provided with a reader for their leaving certificate in June 2011. [6299/11]
The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations including organising the holding of examinations and determining procedures in places where examinations are conducted including the supervision of examinations. I can inform the Deputy that the Commission operates a scheme of Reasonable Accommodations in the Certificate examinations. Applications for such accommodations are submitted by schools on behalf of their students.
A range of accommodations are provided to enable students with special needs to access the Certificate examinations. For example enlarged print, Braille translation, modified questions, use of a scribe, a reader, a personal assistant, a tape recorder or word processor, or exemptions from areas of assessment, may be allowed depending on needs. In view of this I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.
Special Educational Needs
John McGuinness
Question:42 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will ensure that the special needs assistant at a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny is retained; if he will expedite a decision in the case. [6318/11]
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating resource teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. The NCSE has issued a circular to all schools advising of the allocation process for the 2011/2012 school year. A key feature of the amended scheme will be to provide for an annual allocation of SNA support to eligible schools. All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.
School Staffing
Brendan Smith
Question:43 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills if urgent consideration will be given to the concerns outlined in correspondence (details supplied) and if appropriate measures will be implemented without delay to deal with these issues. [6338/11]
The process of allocating teaching resources to schools for 2011/2012 and the arrangements for filling vacant or new teaching posts takes place in the context of the EU/IMF Programme of Support for Ireland and the Public Service Agreement 2010/2014. My Department is aware of the issues which have been raised by the Deputy. However, the overriding imperative is that all the surplus permanent teachers are redeployed into vacancies. The redeployment panels are being circulated to panel operators and a clearer picture will start to emerge in the coming weeks in relation to progress on the redeployment of surplus teachers.
It is the intention of the Department to restore recruitment from fixed-term teachers on the main panels, supplementary panels or public advertisement at the earliest possible opportunity, after all the surplus permanent teachers have been redeployed. The Department will be recommencing discussions with the relevant education partners in relation to what additional arrangements are required to deal with any remaining surplus teachers.
Departmental Committees
Jack Wall
Question:44 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection when the interdepartmental committee on gender recognition will complete its final report; the action she has planned or is proposing to ensure that this matter is resolved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6220/11]
The Gender Recognition Advisory Group was established in 2010 with the following terms of reference:
To advise the Minister for Social Protection on the legislation required to provide for legal recognition of the acquired gender of transsexuals. In particular, to propose heads of a bill to provide for:
The establishment of a process for legal recognition of the acquired gender of persons suffering from Gender Identity Disorder, who have made the transition from one gender to another;
The establishment of a gender recognition register;
The granting of entitlement to marry in the legally recognised reassigned gender; and
Any other provisions as may be deemed necessary consequent to the main provisions of the Bill.
The Group is made up of representatives of various Departments and Offices of State. The group has met on a number of occasions and has engaged in extensive consultation with a range of representative organisations and individuals with knowledge and expertise in the area, both in Ireland and abroad. Further consultation, research and discussion is required on the issues arising. I understand that the group hopes to report within a matter of weeks. As the Deputy will be aware, there are a number of detailed stages and procedures involved in drafting and enacting legislation, so it is not possible for me to set out a timetable for the introduction of legislation in this matter at the present time.
Social Welfare Appeals
Dan Neville
Question:45 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Social Protection if an oral hearing on a farm assist appeal will be granted as soon as possible to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [6213/11]
I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer, having fully considered all the evidence, disallowed the appeal of the person concerned by way of summary decision. The person concerned has been notified of the decision. Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of the Appeals Officer is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed by the Appeals Officer in the light of new evidence or new facts. If there is any new evidence or new facts pertinent to this case that was not brought to the attention of the Appeals Officer during the determination of this appeal, they may be submitted to the Social Welfare Appeals Office for further consideration.
The legislation also provides that an Appeals Officer may decide a case before him/her on the basis of the documentary evidence. This course of action was taken in this case as it was considered that an oral hearing was not warranted. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
Social Welfare Benefits
Michael Ring
Question:46 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive a decision regarding their application for illness benefit. [6219/11]
A claim for illness benefit from the person concerned was registered on 16 March 2011. The records of the Department show that he has no social insurance contributions paid or credited since 2001. He indicated on his illness benefit application form that he has been self-employed since 2002. Any PRSI contributions payable for this period would be class S contributions which are not reckonable for illness benefit purposes.
A formal decision will be issued shortly notifying him that based on his contribution record, he does not qualify for payment of illness benefit nor has he an entitlement to receive credited contributions in respect of any medical evidence of incapacity for work submitted in respect of this illness benefit claim. He will also be advised that, if his means are not sufficient to meet his needs or the needs of his household, he may wish to consider applying for supplementary welfare allowance.
If the person's medical condition is expected to last for at least one year he may wish to consider applying for disability allowance which is subject to a means test. The person's medical condition must be such that he is substantially restricted in undertaking work that would otherwise be suitable for a person of similar age, experience and qualifications. Further information is available from the Department's website www.welfare.ie and from any Citizens information Centre or Local Office of the Department.
Michael Ring
Question:47 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision regarding an application for illness benefit will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [6222/11]
A decision has been made in this case. The person has been awarded illness benefit for the period 28 February 2011 to 18 March 2011 and payment is being issued by electronic fund transfer to her account with a due date of 31 March 2011. Further payments of illness benefit may issue on receipt of medical evidence of incapacity for work in the period since 18 March 2011.
Michael Ring
Question:48 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is not entitled to receive illness benefit. [6223/11]
One of the qualifying conditions for illness benefit is that a person must have at least 104 reckonable social insurance contributions paid since the date of entry into insurable employment. The records of the Department indicate that the person concerned has a total of 78 contributions paid to the end of the 2009 contribution year. Based on that record, he does not qualify for payment of illness benefit. He has been asked to provide full details of his employment and PRSI contributions paid in 2010. Following receipt of this information his case will be reviewed. Furthermore, his case is also being examined to see if he qualifies for occupational injury benefit. If so, he will be notified accordingly.
Social Welfare Appeals
Dan Neville
Question:49 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Social Protection if a social welfare appeals application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be dealt with as soon as possible and an oral hearing granted. [6229/11]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.
There was a 46% increase in the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office in 2009 when compared to 2008, which in itself was 27% greater than the numbers received in 2007. There was an increase of a further 25% in the number of appeals received in 2010. These increases have caused delays in the processing of appeals. In order to be fair to all appellants, oral hearings are arranged in strict chronological order. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
Social Welfare Benefits
Jack Wall
Question:50 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is entitled to payment of rent subsidy, carer’s or domiciliary care allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6291/11]
The Health Service Executive has advised that the person concerned has been requested to provide further information in order to process his application for rent supplement. A decision will be made on his application when the requested information has been provided. Carer's allowance is a social assistance payment, made to persons who are providing full time care and attention to elderly people or to people with disabilities and whose income falls below certain limits. To qualify for carer's allowance in respect of a person under 16 years of age domiciliary care allowance must be in payment in respect of them.
As with other social assistance schemes, a means test is applied to the carer's allowance to ensure that limited resources are directed to those in greatest need. The income of both the applicant and his/her spouse/partner is assessable as means in determining entitlement. In order to qualify for carer's allowance the carer must satisfy a number of conditions including: be aged 18 or over; satisfy a means test; be caring for the person on a full-time basis; not be employed or self-employed for more than 15 hours outside the home; not be living in a hospital, convalescent home or other similar institution; and satisfy the habitual residence condition.
In order to assess a person's entitlement to carer's allowance it is necessary for them to complete an application form. If the person in question makes an application for carer's allowance their entitlement will be considered. A person signing for credits can be considered for carer's allowance and may be entitled provided all conditions are met.
Domiciliary care allowance (DCA) is payable in respect of children who have a disability so severe that it requires the child needing care and attention and/or supervision substantially in excess of another child of the same age. The care and attention received must be given by another person, effectively full-time so that the child can deal with the normal activities of daily life. The child must be likely to require this level of care and attention for at least 12 months.
Eligibility for DCA is not based primarily on the medical or psychological condition, but on the resulting lack of function of body or mind necessitating the degree of extra care and attention required. Each application is assessed on an individual basis taking account of the evidence submitted by the applicant. The person in question may make an application for DCA at any time they wish and their entitlement will be considered.
Jack Wall
Question:51 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be awarded their rent subsidy allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6298/11]
The Health Service Executive has advised that the person concerned has been requested to provide further information in order to process her application for rent supplement. A decision will be made on her application when the requested information has been provided.
Social Welfare Appeals
Charlie McConalogue
Question:52 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a domiciliary care allowance appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6301/11]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an appeals officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
Social Welfare Benefits
John McGuinness
Question:53 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection if the case of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will be re-examined in view of the hardship being caused to the family by the decision to reduce their rent allowance; if the rent allowance will be increased and if she will expedite a response. [6319/11]
The Health Service Executive has advised that payment of rent supplement to the person concerned ceased as the rent payable was in excess of the rent limit for the family size. The Executive further advised that the person concerned has sufficient household income to meet her household needs.
John McGuinness
Question:54 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection if supplementary welfare and assistance with mortgage payments will be approved in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny and if she will expedite a reply. [6320/11]
The Health Service Executive has advised that payment of mortgage interest supplement ceased as the person concerned has sufficient income to meet his mortgage interest costs.
John McGuinness
Question:55 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason rent allowance being paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny has been reduced; if the case will be reviewed and if the payment will be restored as the person has a serious medical condition and the reduction is causing financial hardship and distress. [6327/11]
The Health Service Executive has advised that the person concerned has been awarded rent supplement of €36 per week from 11 April 2011. This is the maximum amount payable based on her household circumstances.
John McGuinness
Question:56 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Social Protection if rent allowance being paid to persons (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be increased and if she will expedite a response. [6328/11]
The Health Service Executive has advised that the persons concerned are in receipt of the maximum amount of rent supplement payable based on the household income from disability allowance and jobseeker's allowance.
Pearse Doherty
Question:57 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Social Protection the arrangements that were adopted when a person on the live register was employed by the Central Statistics Office for the purpose of compiling census 2011; the savings that were made to the Department for each person employed in this way; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6330/11]
One of the qualifying conditions for a jobseeker's payment is that a person is unemployed for three days out of six (not including Sunday). This means that an enumerator could work up to four days a week, including Sunday, and still receive a jobseeker's payment.
A person on jobseeker's benefit must sign off for any days worked as an enumerator. If a jobseeker's benefit customer carries out his/her duties as an enumerator over three days each week, s/he may be entitled to jobseeker's benefit for the other three days provided all other statutory conditions are satisfied. Customers in receipt of a jobseeker's benefit payment have an entitlement to 234 or 312 days benefit depending on the number of contributions paid. Where a customer signs off for any days worked during the life of the claim, this extends the duration of his or her entitlement to jobseeker's benefit. There are no savings to the Department.
Where a person on jobseeker's allowance carries out his/her duties as an enumerator over three days each week, s/he may be paid a full week's jobseeker's allowance less any earnings means from the days worked, provided all other statutory conditions are satisfied. Statistics are not maintained on the savings to the Department as means can differ in each case.
Dan Neville
Question:58 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Social Protection if rent allowance will be reinstated in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [6331/11]
The Health Service Executive has advised that payment of rent supplement automatically ceased in September 2010 as the person concerned had not collected her payment for a number of weeks. If the person concerned wishes to make a new application for rent supplement then she should contact the community welfare officer at her local health centre.
Paul Connaughton
Question:59 Deputy Paul J. Connaughton asked the Minister for Social Protection when disability allowance will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6345/11]
The person concerned applied for disability allowance on 4 February 2011. As this is a means tested allowance she has been asked to forward a P45 from her last employment and bank statements for the past six months. A decision on her entitlement to disability allowance will be given on receipt of the requested documentation and she will be notified directly of the outcome. The person has also been advised of her possible entitlement to an invalidity pension and an application for same has been forwarded to her.
Sports Capital Programme
Jack Wall
Question:60 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport when the sports capital grant applications will be accepted again or when will grant applications submitted under this heading be accepted and processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6294/11]
Under the Sports Capital Programme, funding is allocated to sporting and to voluntary and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. No decision has been made on the timing of the next round of the Programme.
Grant Payments
Sean Fleming
Question:61 Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the amount of grants and other payments to a project (details supplied) in County Laois. [6310/11]
Dunamaise Arts Centre in Portlaoise, Co Laois has received a total of €1,884,719 in capital grant aid from my Department and my Department's predecessors since 1994. The following is a breakdown of the funding — all of which has been paid out.
|
Year |
Amount |
|
€ |
|
|
1994-1999 |
1,650,671 |
|
2006 |
140,000 |
|
2007 |
80,000 |
|
2010 |
14,048 |
|
Total |
1,884,719 |
Planning Issues
Catherine Murphy
Question:62 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when all of the remaining sections of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 will receive a commencement notice; the reason there has been a significant delay in commencing the outstanding sections; if the delay has increased the risk of the European Commission taking further legal action against Ireland for failing to implement the earlier ruling of the European Court of Justice in the case of C-215/06; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6224/11]
The Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 was enacted on 26 July 2010, and five commencement orders have been made over the period August 2010-March 2011. Remaining provisions of the Act will be commenced as soon as possible once the required regulations, guidance and certain legal refinements to the 2010 Act are finalised. Section 69 of the Act will not be commenced as it now stands part of a separate Act, the Compulsory Purchase Orders (Extension of Time Limits) Act 2010.
Following the European Court judgment on 3 July 2008 in case C-215/06, my Department immediately wrote to planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála to advise that applications for retention should no longer be accepted in respect of projects requiring environmental impact assessment and the practice of accepting such applications should cease from that date. An amendment to section 34 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 Act was made in the 2010 Act to address the judgment and this provision was commenced on 23 March 2011. As a result, the retrospective regularisation of projects requiring environmental impact assessment may only be applied for in very limited exceptional circumstances. The related substitute consent provisions will be commenced as soon as possible.
Catherine Murphy
Question:63 Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, following the announcement by the European Commission on 16 February 2011 last that it is to take Ireland back to the European Court of Justice to seek the imposition of fines for failing to implement the earlier ruling in the case of C-66/06, the position regarding these ongoing legal proceedings; when he will bring before the Oireachtas the necessary legislation to ensure satisfactory closure of this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6225/11]
The European Court of Justice found, in its ruling of 20 November 2008, that Ireland's system of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) screening for certain categories of agriculture related projects was over-reliant on size thresholds and did not take other relevant criteria (e.g. cumulative impacts of development, proximity to sensitive sites etc.) into account. The categories of projects in question include the restructuring of rural land holdings, the use of uncultivated land or semi-natural areas for intensive agricultural purposes, and water management projects for agriculture, including irrigation and land drainage projects.
Following discussions with the European Commission and other stakeholders, including the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, my Department provided a comprehensive response to the Commission in November 2010, outlining its proposed legislative reforms fully to address the Court judgment which proposed, inter alia, to significantly to lower the thresholds at which mandatory EIA was required and at which a planning application is required (i.e. lowering the exempted development thresholds).
Notwithstanding these proposals, the European Commission announced in February 2011 that it is referring Ireland back to the European Court of Justice for failing to implement the ruling. My Department, together with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and in consultation with the Commission, is working intensively to develop appropriate proposals which will satisfy the Commission's concerns regarding full implementation of the judgment, and which will also be proportionate and capable of being operated effectively and efficiently by the farming community and local authorities. Both Departments have recently met with Commission officials on this matter.
Subject to further discussions with the Commission and other stakeholders, it is proposed to address the issues through a combination of amendments to the exempted development provisions of the Planning and Development Regulations, which will require a resolution of both Houses of the Oireachtas, and new enabling regulations made by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food under the European Communities Act 1972. It is intended to finalise both sets of Regulations, together with accompanying guidance for farmers, planning authorities and other interested parties, in the coming weeks.
Pension Provisions
Olivia Mitchell
Question:64 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will comply with the recommendation of the Ombudsman in respect of the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 16; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6263/11]
Under the terms of the Local Government Superannuation Scheme (LGSS) a person's pension contributions and benefits are based on the pensionable pay appropriate to the pensionable local authority post. Earnings in respect of a position, other than the person's local authority pensionable post, do not count for pension purposes and, equally, contributions are not payable in respect of such earnings.
I understand that the person referred to in the question was employed by a local authority and was seconded to a post, at a higher level, in another public service organisation up to the time of retirement. In this regard, the local authority correctly determined his superannuation award based on the salary applicable to his pensionable local authority post. It is a standard feature of public service pension schemes that a scheme member on secondment is pensionable in his/her substantive post and I am not aware of any proposals to amend this principle.
Building Regulations
John McGuinness
Question:65 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government under the Building Control Act 2007, Part 3, the person who appoints the stage 3 interview board and the technical assessment board relevant to the evaluation process for applications; if the appeals board has been set up and if so, if he will name the board members and their qualifications; the number of appeals outstanding and the number of appeals dealt with; the time frame for each appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6316/11]
Part 3 of the Building Control Act 2007 enables eligible persons engaged in the provision of architectural services to register for the use of the title architect. The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) has been designated as the registration body for the purposes of Part 3 of the Act.
To date the registration body has established an Admissions Board and a Technical Assessment Board which allowed for the commencement of the registration process in 2010. The Chairpersons of these Boards, who may be a solicitor, a barrister or a former judge of the Circuit Court, High Court or Supreme Court, were appointed by my predecessor as Minister who also nominated a majority of persons who are not architects to each Board.
The Act also provides for an Appeals Board and a Professional Practice Committee and the matter of appointing Chairpersons and nominating the majority of non-architect members to each of these bodies is now being attended to as a matter of priority. I understand that the registration body has received one application for an appeal against a decision of the Technical Assessment Board.
The table below lists those members thus far appointed to the bodies concerned.
|
Applications Board |
|
|
Mr. Richard Humphreys, Chairperson |
Ministerial appointee |
|
Ms Paula Butler |
Ministerial nominee |
|
Ms Mairéad Hughes |
Ministerial nominee |
|
Mr. Brian Cunningham |
Ministerial nominee |
|
Vacancy |
Due to resignation of Martin Hogan, Ministerial nominee |
|
Mr. Eoin O’Cofaigh |
RIAI appointee |
|
Mr. Toal O’Muire |
RIAI appointee |
|
Ms Gráinne Shaffrey |
RIAI appointee |
|
Technical Assessment Board |
|
|
Ms Cliona Kimber, Chairperson |
Ministerial appointee |
|
Mr. Sean Balfe |
Ministerial nominee |
|
Mr. Henk van der Kamp |
Ministerial nominee |
|
Mr. Bernard Lennon |
Ministerial nominee |
|
Ms Geraldine Walshe |
Ministerial nominee |
|
Ms Orla Fitzgerald |
RIAI appointee |
|
Mr. Loughlin Kealy |
RIAI appointee |
|
Ms Joan O’Connor |
RIAI appointee |
Proposed Legislation
Olivia Mitchell
Question:66 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when he will sign the commencement order of the remaining section of the Multi-Unit Developments Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6265/11]
The Commencement Order for the remaining sections of the Multi-Unit Developments Act 2011 was signed on 2 March (S.I. No. 95 of 2011). They come into operation on 1 April.
Citizenship Applications
Pat Breen
Question:67 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 959 of 29 September 2010, the position regarding an application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6215/11]
A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in January 2008. The application is being processed in the normal way with a view to establishing whether the applicant meets the statutory conditions for the granting of naturalisation and will be submitted to me for decision in the near future.
I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.
Jack Wall
Question:68 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application for citizenship in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6232/11]
A valid application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in June 2008. The application is being processed in the normal way with a view to establishing whether the applicant meets the statutory conditions for the granting of naturalisation and will be submitted to me for decision in due course. While the average time from application to decision is 26 months, processing requirements and time taken to carry out necessary checks vary from case to case.
I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.
Crime Levels
Finian McGrath
Question:69 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will provide statistics for an area (details supplied) regarding anti-social activities. [6233/11]
Following the submission in 2004 of a report and recommendations by an expert group on crime statistics, it was decided that the compilation and publication of crime statistics should be taken over by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, from An Garda Síochána. The Garda Síochána Act 2005 consequently makes provision for this and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose. Following the setting up of the necessary technical systems and auditing of the data from which the statistics are compiled, the CSO is now compiling, publishing and responding to queries regarding criminal statistics. I have requested the CSO to provide statistics directly to the Deputy.
Parking Regulations
Finian McGrath
Question:70 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will support the case of persons (details supplied) regarding parking. [6234/11]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the location referred to is within Clontarf Garda Sub-District. Local Garda management is not aware of any specific complaints regarding parking at the location. A member of the local Community Policing Unit is specifically assigned to the area and will contact local residents. Any issues arising will be dealt with appropriately.
The area is the subject of regular patrols by members of An Garda Síochána on mobile and foot patrols. Local Garda management closely monitors and keeps under review patrols and other operational strategies in place, in conjunction with crime trends and policing needs of the communities in the area, to ensure optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the public.
Stardust Disaster
Finian McGrath
Question:71 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding supports for the Stardust families (details supplied). [6257/11]
As the Deputy will recall, the principal recommendation made in Mr. Paul Coffey SC's independent examination has been implemented in full by means of motions passed in both Houses of the Oireachtas. Insofar as his recommendation concerning outstanding medical and counselling needs is concerned, arrangements have been put in place to provide services to those victims, or bereaved, who wish to access such services through this channel and a number have chosen to do so.
Citizenship Applications
Jack Wall
Question:72 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application for citizenship in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6292/11]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in November 2009. On examination of the application submitted it was determined that the person in question did not meet that statutory residency requirements as set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended. The person concerned was informed of this in a letter issued on 2 December, 2009. It is open to the person concerned to lodge a new application for a certificate of naturalisation with the Citizenship Division of my Department if and when they are in a position to meet the statutory requirements.
I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.
Residency Permits
Jack Wall
Question:73 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; the procedure he or she must follow to obtain a resident permit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6297/11]
The person concerned was granted permission to remain in the State on 17th September, 2001, for an initial twelve month period, on the basis of his parentage of an Irish citizen child. This permission was renewed on a number of occasions, most recently to 17th September, 2009.
Arising from the conviction of the person concerned in the United Kingdom, for an immigration related offence, which resulted in a custodial sentence being handed down in that jurisdiction, allied to the fact that he was no longer living as part of a family unit with his Irish citizen child, the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 28th October, 2009, that, in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against him. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
The position in the State of the person concerned will now be decided by reference to the provisions of Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned. In advance of a final decision being made, the case of the person concerned will be examined to determine what, if any, impact the recent European Court of Justice Judgment in the Belgian Zambrano case may have on his case.
I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.
Gerald Nash
Question:74 Deputy Gerald Nash asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the reasons for the delay in processing an application for a subsidiary protection order in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; if he will grant such an order to the person concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6347/11]
The persons concerned are a husband, his wife and the couple's three children. The husband and wife lodged separate asylum applications on 24th January, 2005. The first and second named children were included in their mother's asylum application meaning that any decision taken in relation to her applied equally to the two children. The third named child made a separate asylum application on 15th March, 2007.
The second named person concerned initiated Judicial Review Proceedings in the High Court, challenging the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal in her case. The High Court refused the Judicial Review Leave Application with the consequence that the earlier decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal stood.
Arising from the refusal of their respective asylum applications, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), they were separately notified, the husband and wife by letters dated 30th March, 2009 and the third named child by letter dated 20th February, 2009, that the Minister proposed to make Deportation Orders in respect of them. They were each given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of Deportation Orders or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why Deportation Orders should not be made against them. In addition, they were notified of their respective entitlements to apply for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006.
The persons concerned submitted applications for Subsidiary Protection and, following the separate consideration of these applications, it was determined that the persons concerned were not eligible for Subsidiary Protection. The persons concerned were notified of these decisions by separate letters dated 25th March, 2011. The position in the State of the persons concerned will now be decided by reference to the provisions of Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. All representations submitted will be considered before the files are passed to me for decision. Once decisions have been made, these decisions and the consequences of the decisions will be conveyed in writing to the persons concerned.
I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.
Grant Payments
Tom Hayes
Question:75 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a payment for single farm payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6240/11]
On 11th February 2011 an application was received by my department to transfer 38.22 entitlements by way of inheritance from the Kilkenny herd number of the person named in her maiden name to the Tipperary herd number of the person named in her married name. As the application form indicated that an inheritance was involved, a letter issued from my department requesting the normal testamentary documents required to process a transfer application involving inheritance.
The person named contacted my department by telephone on the 25th March 2011 and clarified that the transfer was not by way of inheritance. The transfer of her entitlements was completed that same day and payment will issue in the coming week. While the closing date for submission of transfer applications for the 2010 scheme year was 15 May 2010 this application was accepted on the basis that the entitlements concerned were being amalgamated with other entitlements held by the person named.
Harbours and Piers
Pádraig Mac Lochlainn
Question:76 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will confirm when he will allocate the necessary funding to ensure that construction works on the breakwater at Greencastle, County Donegal can recommence and when the project will be completed. [6279/11]
Greencastle harbour is owned by Donegal County Council and responsibility for the maintenance and development of the harbour rests with that local authority in the first instance. My Department has, however, in recent years, project managed works on phase one of the Greencastle Harbour development project on behalf of Donegal County Council as well as providing funding. Any application received from Donegal County Council for funding, under the 2011 Fishery Harbours and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme, to continue phase one of the Greencastle development project will be considered in the context of available exchequer funding and competing national priorities.
Grant Payments
Tom Hayes
Question:77 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when single farm payment for 2008 will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6286/11]
The person named is one of three applicants who have declared commonage land on their SPS applications: two applicants each declared a half share, while the third claimed a one-third share. All applicants have submitted varying degrees of proof in support of their claims to my Department in support of their declaration. While the onus rests with the individual claimants concerned to clarify the position regarding their respective rights to the commonage land concerned, my Department has decided to undertake a field survey on the land. It is envisaged that this will be done in the coming weeks.
Forestry Sector
Martin Ferris
Question:78 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount of forestry and land under Coillte’s control that has been sold since 1989; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6300/11]
I am advised that, since its establishment in 1989, Coillte has sold approximately 15,700 hectares of land, of which circa 6,000 hectares were afforested. Of the total sold, some 3,400 hectares were sold to State Bodies (e.g. E.S.B, County Councils, O.P.W and local development groups). I understand that the properties sold are those considered by the company not to be of strategic importance to the company's forestry business. As advised to the Deputy last week, Coillte has also sold, since its establishment in 1989, approximately 11,500 hectares of immature forests to forestry investment funds. In these sales, the sale agreements confer rights on the purchaser to harvest timber at maturity while Coillte retains ownership of the land, carbon rights and other assets.
Animal Welfare
Maureen O'Sullivan
Question:79 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in view of the publicised plans by the Irish Greyhound Board to expand greyhound racing to China, if his attention has been drawn to the non-existence of animal welfare legislation in China; if he will assure those concerned for the thousands of Irish surplus dogs who would end up discarded if racing starts in China and are in very real danger of being used in fur and/or food production. [6306/11]
Bord na gCon is a commercial State Body. The Board of Bord na gCon is responsible for leading and directing the activities of the Company. My Department is aware that Bord na gCon is exploring possible business opportunities in China. However Bord na gCon has not as yet made a submission to the Department in this regard.
Bord na gCon has repeatedly confirmed its commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare in the greyhound industry. Consequently my Department would expect that any proposal involving Bord na gCon engaging with the greyhound industry in China would consider animal welfare matters. The Department will, if and when it receives a submission on this matter from Bord na gCon, consider the proposal in the round and form a view based on the case put forward. The Department is always mindful of the need to ensure the welfare of animals.
Any proposal to export greyhounds from Ireland to China would require the establishment and agreement of export health certification protocols with the Chinese authorities, and appropriate transport arrangements would have to be put in place to ensure the welfare of the animals in transit. My Department endeavours to ensure that all exporters comply with Council Regulation (EC) No. 1/2005 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations. All Member States of the EU including Ireland are working to promote better animal welfare internationally and in this regard Ireland has introduced national legislation giving effect to Regulation (EC) No. 1523/2007 of the European Parliament and Council dated 11 December 2007 banning the marketing, import to or export from, the Community of cat and dog fur and products containing such fur.
Grant Payments
John McGuinness
Question:80 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if REP scheme payments due to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be granted and if he will expedite the matter. [6324/11]
The person named commenced REPS 4 in October 2009. The person named received the year 1 payment in December 2009 and the year 2 payment in February 2011.
Employment Support Services
Pearse Doherty
Question:81 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the efforts that have been made to assist the workers recently made redundant (details supplied) in County Donegal to find suitable alternative employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6238/11]
Pearse Doherty
Question:82 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if she has instructed any Government Departments to target investment to a townland (details supplied) in County Donegal following recent job tosses in the area. [6239/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 81 and 82 together.
In January 2011, the company in question, which is a client company of Údarás na Gaeltachta, announced its decision to cease the frozen production element of its operations in the district referred to by the Deputy, due, according to the company, to increases in the cost of raw materials, a decline in sales and increased competition. I understand that, following the company's decision, Údarás na Gaeltachta has worked with the company in an effort to maintain employment levels in the district. In this context, I understand from Údarás na Gaeltachta that the assets owned by the company, with the exception of the frozen food line, have now been purchased by the company's former owner with a view to saving 67 jobs at the facility.
I also understand from Údarás na Gaeltachta that it has facilitated a number of meetings between affected employees and relevant State agencies, such as FÁS and the Department of Social Protection, with a view to assisting them in any way possible.
Pension Provisions
Tom Hayes
Question:83 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary is entitled to a refund of pension contributions made while working part-time for the Health Service Executive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6282/11]
As this is a local matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Medical Cards
Jack Wall
Question:84 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6212/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Jack Wall
Question:85 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will receive their medical card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6226/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services
Finian McGrath
Question:86 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a care package in respect of a person (details supplied). [6228/11]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Services for People with Disabilities
Finian McGrath
Question:87 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of adults with an intellectual disability nationally who are on residential, day care and respite waiting lists. [6235/11]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services
Michael McGrath
Question:88 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the payment due to a nursing home for a week of respite care in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [6237/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Prescription Charges
Michael Creed
Question:89 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will reverse the charge on prescriptions for medical card holders; if he will explain the rationale behind this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6241/11]
An analysis of the available research shows that prescription charges tend to reduce the use of medicines among certain patient groups. This can create negative health effects. Reducing the use of essential medicines may lead to increased hospitalisation, resulting in greater costs for the Exchequer in the long term. It is my intention, subject to Government approval, to introduce legislation to abolish prescription charges for medical card holders.
Nursing Homes Support Scheme
Finian McGrath
Question:90 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) regarding the fair deal scheme. [6256/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Child Care Services
Michael Creed
Question:91 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the charging of rates on facilities that provide preschool services and the early childhood care and education scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6260/11]
I have responsibility for the implementation of the free Pre-School Year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme, which was introduced in January 2010 and which is participated in by some 4,300 pre-school services. A pre-school service's liability to commercial rates under the Valuation Act 2001, is a matter for the Valuation Office, acting under the remit of the Department of Finance. I understand that pre-school services which are operated by community not for profit organisations may, on a case by case basis, be exempted from commercial rates. In addition, the Valuation Office has advised that pre-school services participating in the ECCE programme will be considered to be exempt from commercial rates where the expenses they incur in providing their services are defrayed wholly by the State. My understanding is that in all other cases, pre-school services are regarded as being subject to these charges.
Health Services
Olivia Mitchell
Question:92 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will ensure a person (details supplied) in Dublin 16 has their orthodontic treatment completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6264/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Hospital Services
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:93 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line services and capacity to Clonmel hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6266/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:94 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line services and capacity to Merlin Park hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6267/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:95 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line services and capacity to Nenagh General Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6268/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:96 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line services and capacity to Roscommon County Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6269/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:97 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line services and capacity to Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6270/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:98 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line service and capacity to Sligo General Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6271/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:99 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line service and capacity to Letterkenny General Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6272/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:100 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line service and capacity to Portiuncula Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6273/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:101 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line service and capacity to Wexford General Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6274/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:102 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line service and capacity to Monaghan Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6275/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:103 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line service and capacity to Ennis General Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6276/11]
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Question:104 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will restore front line service and capacity to Louth County Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6277/11]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 93 to 104, inclusive, together.
I am committed to ensuring that acute hospital services at national, regional and local level are provided in a clinically appropriate and efficient manner. In particular I want to ensure that as many services as possible can be provided safely in smaller, local hospitals. In order to fully consider the issues involved, I am being briefed by my Department and the Health Service Executive (HSE) on the organisation of acute services in each region and on the important clinical programmes being developed by the HSE. These inter-related programmes aim to improve service quality, effectiveness and patient access and to ensure that patient care is provided in the service setting most appropriate to individuals' needs.
Health Services
Tom Hayes
Question:105 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will investigate the delays in accessing orthodontic treatment, including the case of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [6285/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Medical Cards
Jack Wall
Question:106 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the reasons medical card holders are being charged by general practitioners in respect of certain health issues (details supplied); if this is acceptable under the guidelines of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6295/11]
Under the General Medical Services (GMS) contract, a general practitioner (GP) is expected to provide his/her patients who hold medical cards or GP visit cards with all proper and necessary treatment of a kind generally undertaken by a GP. Where blood tests form part of the investigation and necessary treatment of patients' symptoms or conditions, these should be provided free of charge to medical card and GP visit card holders. The HSE also points out that, in many GP surgeries, it is the practice nurse who takes blood samples. The HSE significantly subsidises the cost of employing practice nurses. If the HSE is made aware of specific cases where GMS patients are being charged by GP contractors, it will arrange to have such cases investigated as appropriate.
John McGuinness
Question:107 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if a medical card will be issued as a matter of urgency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [6304/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services
John McGuinness
Question:108 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will confirm the home support that has been put in place for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if the reports of doctors and psychologists have been considered and the action that has been taken arising from the reports; if the needs of the family will be assessed to determine the level of care needed so that it can be sourced privately if the Health Service Executive does not have the capacity to respond; if a case meeting can be arranged to hear the concerns of the family directly; if urgent action will be taken to resolve all issues and provide the care urgently needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6314/11]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Medical Cards
John McGuinness
Question:109 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if a medical card will be issued immediately in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [6315/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Programmes for Government
John McGuinness
Question:110 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the changes he will introduce to assist Members to obtain information through the parliamentary question system from the Health Service Executive in a more timely manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6317/11]
Responding to the information needs of the Oireachtas and the public is a priority for my Department and is a regular agenda item at meetings between the Secretary General of my Department and the Chief Executive Officer of the Health Service Executive. The Health Service Executive is a statutory body with its own vote and Accounting Officer.
As the Deputy is aware, Parliamentary Questions raised in relation to day to day operational matters concerning the health service are referred to the HSE for direct reply to Deputies. This is in line with the commitment under the Programme for Government that it shall be a statutory duty on any body established under statute, to submit to the same Parliamentary Question regime as applies to Government Departments. This will involve a liability to provide answers to written questions within a specified number of Dail sitting days.
The operation of the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the HSE (PAD) allows for the centralised receipt, assignment and tracking of Parliamentary Questions within the HSE's extensive network of operations. More generally, PAD monitors overall performance in relation to the timely issue of replies and provides a central contact for all requests from Oireachtas members for information relating to matters within the statutory remit of the Executive. It reports on a regular basis to the Chief Executive Officer and his management team.
The Executive is very conscious of the need for prompt replies to Parliamentary Questions and there is regular liaison between my Department and the Executive in this regard. While the Executive attempts to answer all questions referred to it as quickly as possible, many of the questions submitted by Deputies request large and detailed amounts of statistical data on a variety of subjects which require input and coordination from all areas of the Executive.
Recently, the HSE has undertaken a number of initiatives to improve response times to Parliamentary Questions and to deal with other queries from members of the Oireachtas including:
the development of a new I.T. system to streamline and improve the process of responding to Parliamentary Questions. The new system is expected to go live within the next few weeks;
the provision of additional resources to reduce backlogs in key areas;
the nomination of regional coordinators for each HSE region to deal with Parliamentary Affairs for that area;
the development of a dedicated web page on the HSE website for Oireachtas members. This page, titled "Rialtas", will link Oireachtas members to a range of information on the HSE website including published reports, statistical data and responses to Parliamentary Questions;
the Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) has also established a dedicated page on the HSE website. This web page, which can be accessed at www.medicalcard.ie, provides assistance in a range of areas for both Oireachtas members and their constituents including:
detailed guidelines on the criteria for eligibility for medical cards;
a facility to make a medical card application online;
a facility to check on the status of a current application, or the status of an existing medical card.
The Programme for Government contains a number of proposals to improve the handling of Parliamentary Questions, Adjournment Debates etc. It is expected that these initiatives will be progressed across all Government Departments in due course.
Medical Cards
John McGuinness
Question:111 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if a full medical card will be approved in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny and if he will expedite the matter. [6321/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services
John McGuinness
Question:112 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children his plans in respect of the need to improve neurological services throughout the country and in particular the south east; the average waiting times for inpatient and outpatient services in this area; the numbers of patients waiting for the services throughout the country and the length of time they have been on the list by region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6322/11]
In 2010 the Director of the Office of Clinical Strategy and Programmes in the HSE met the Irish Consultant Neurologists' Association (Neurology Faculty) to discuss how best to move neurological services forward in Ireland. Following discussions it was agreed to appoint a number of Neurologists to lead three key national programmes, giving neurological care a major focus in the HSE.
The first two national programmes are on stroke management and on epilepsy. Plans for epilepsy and stroke will include the development of protocols of care and delivery of expert care closer to people's homes as well as in the expert centres. The third national programme on access for neurology outpatients aims to provide standardised care for neurology patients and to increase access. This programme is in the process of recruiting 13 additional Consultant Neurologists / Consultant Neurophysiologists. The setting up of these programmes shows the importance that the HSE gives to neurological care and its commitment to improving access to neurological services.
Furthermore, the HSE has emphasised to my Department that all national programmes, including those concentrating on neurology, will have a focus on patient advocacy. These inter-related programmes aim to improve service quality, effectiveness and patient access and to ensure that patient care is provided in the service setting most appropriate to individuals' needs. I am being briefed by my Department and the HSE on these important clinical programmes and on the organisation of acute services in each region. In relation to the other issues raised, as these are service matters, they have been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Medical Cards
John McGuinness
Question:113 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if an application for a medical card will be expedited and approved in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [6325/11]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Service Executive Investigations
John McGuinness
Question:114 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the names of officials and those who attended a meeting with the former Minister, former Deputy Mary Harney, relative to a formal complaint lodged by a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; the actions taken by him or the Health Service Executive following this meeting; if he will arrange an independent review of the case and the way the complaint was handled to satisfy himself that the HSE investigation followed best practice, protected the rights of the patient concerned, protected the rights of the nurse who made the complaint, disciplined those who were found to be wrong and introduced protections and procedure to ensure such an incident be a does not happen again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6326/11]
At the meeting on 19 January last, Minister Harney was accompanied by her adviser, a representative from the Mental Health Unit and a representative from the Patient Safety Unit. Following the meeting, and as agreed, the official from the Mental Health Unit contacted the Mental Health Commission and requested that the Inspector of Mental Health Services again examine the issues raised by the complainant.
On 7 March, the Acting CEO of the Commission forwarded a copy of the Inspector's response, which indicated that he had reviewed all available information relating to the case, and had spoken to the Executive Clinical Director for Carlow/Kilkenny/South Tipperary. The Inspector indicated that in his judgement, satisfactory investigations were carried out and he is satisfied that appropriate measures are now in place to prevent a recurrence. The complainant was informed of the Inspector's response by letter dated 14 March, and the position was also explained to him, by telephone, by a number of Department Officials.
The complainant's contention that his working hours were reduced following the submission of his complaint has not been substantiated; documentary evidence received from the HSE indicates that the complainant's working hours had in fact increased, following the submission of his complaint. I am satisfied that the allegations have been satisfactorily reviewed and any necessary measures were taken by the hospital management. In the circumstances, I believe that a further review of the complaint is not warranted.
Road Network
Dominic Hannigan
Question:115 Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Transport the persons responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the N2; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6278/11]
The construction, improvement and maintenance of individual national roads, including the N2, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Act 1993 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
National Roads Authority
Finian McGrath
Question:116 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Transport if he will offer advice to families regarding damage (details supplied). [6258/11]
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme element of Transport 21. The implementation of individual national road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993-2007, in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. The construction of the Dublin Port Tunnel project was procured by Dublin City Council and funded through the NRA. In order to be of assistance I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Services for People with Disabilities
Jack Wall
Question:117 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Transport if consultations have taken place with a company (details supplied) or if he has given any directives or issued any guidelines in regard to disability placement on trains to facilitate persons who suffer from a disability to obtain a placement on a train or in asking passengers to facilitate a disabled person on a train; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that signage to this effect has been changed on trains and it is causing problems for disabled persons; if he has plans to ensure that on whatever public transport a disabled person seeks to use, the signs, facilities and so on will be in place to ensure that the disabled person will be facilitated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6296/11]
I appreciate the Deputy's concerns and while I have a general responsibility for the promotion of improved accessibility across all transport modes, the issue of signage is essentially a matter for Iarnród Éireann.
I have been informed by Iarnród Éireann that it is currently undertaking a complete modernisation of the signage on trains and this will be completed in 2011. This new signage is compliant with the new EU legislation requirements set out in EU Commission Decision of 21 December 2007 concerning the technical specification 2008/164/EC relating to "persons with reduced mobility". This became effective on 1 July 2008. These signage requirements are for use by all EU railways and represents best practice in terms of layout and content. Iarnród Éireann has also indicated that it has not received any representations from any party regarding the signage for persons of reduced mobility.
Improvements to public transport in general are being advanced through the implementation of Transport Access for All, my Department’s Sectoral Plan under the Disability Act 2005. The Plan is available on my Department’s website www.transport.ie and was first published in 2006 and reviewed in 2008. Among other things, the plan sets out a series of policy objectives and targets for accessible public transport across all modes — actions to make trains, buses, taxi and hackney services, as well as air and marine transport, accessible to people with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairments. Preparations are already underway for a further review of the plan this year which will include an extensive public consultation process.
Air Services
Tom Fleming
Question:118 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Transport, as the continuation of reductions of Kerry-Dublin flights is impacting severely on tourism and business in County Kerry and jobs at Kerry Airport, if he will bring forward to a more immediate date the public service obligation which was originally scheduled for July 2011. [6346/11]
My Department is in the final stages of consultation with Kerry Airport on the specifications for a new PSO air service on the Kerry-Dublin air route. Discussions with the EU Commission are also ongoing. The next step in the process is the submission of necessary PSO and tender notifications to the European Commission for approval and publication in the Official Journal of the European Communities. In line with the EU guidelines, the process of renewal of a PSO takes a minimum of 6 months from the date the notices appear in the Official Journal. My Department is making every effort to expedite the completion of the necessary documentation and transmission to the European Commission.