Written Answers Nos. 931-955
931. Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the amount spent on the national broadband plan over the past five years (details supplied); and the total internal costs incurred by his Department to date on the project. [6160/20]
View answerThe contract signed with National Broadband Ireland in November 2019 is the Government’s plan to rollout high speed broadband to the 1.1 million people living and working in the nearly 540,000 premises including almost 100,000 businesses and farms, along with 695 schools, where commercial operators will not commit to deliver the service.
It will ensure that one quarter of the country mostly living in rural Ireland are not left behind. Without high speed broadband it will be much more difficult to sustain existing jobs or create new ones. It will make it possible for rural Ireland to take advantage of the opportunities created by the digital economy, from health care to farming from education to agricultural development to tourism
The total amount spent on the National Broadband Plan over the past five years is €40,427,264 including VAT.
A breakdown of the amount spent by year is set out the table:
|
Year |
Amount Spent |
|
2020 |
€13,568,565 |
|
2019 |
€6,131,959 |
|
2018 |
€8,330,653 |
|
2017 |
€10,050,428 |
|
2016 |
€2,345,659 |
My Department's NBP team has also been supported by other officers across the Department. While the Department does not operate on a basis of allocating costs for each staff member across its range of functions, salary and other administration related costs for the Department are published in the annual Estimates and in the Appropriation Account.
All large projects require significant preparatory expenditure prior to commencement; this is particularly the case for complex, long term projects with financial, technical and legal elements such as the NBP.
932. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he will request an update from a company (details supplied) regarding roll-out times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6221/20]
View answerThe government is committed to delivering high speed broadband to every home, farm, business and school in Ireland. It is vital that we ensure the people of rural Ireland have the same opportunities as the people in our towns and cities.
The Question refers to areas in Co. Westmeath which are located in the AMBER area on the NBP High Speed Broadband Map which is available on my Department's website at www.broadband.gov.ie. The AMBER area represents the area to be served by the network to be deployed under the NBP State led Intervention, the contract for which was signed in November last with National Broadband Ireland (NBI).
All counties will see premises passed in the first 2 years and over 90% of premises in the State will have access to high speed broadband within the next four years. The NBP network will offer users a high speed broadband service with a minimum download speed of 150Mbps from the outset. By the end of next year, NBI plans to pass approximately 115,000 premises, with 70,000 - 100,000 passed each year thereafter until rollout is completed.
To support remote working and connected communities, approximately 300 Broadband Connections Points (BCPs) are scheduled to be connected to high speed broadband this year. This will assist communities to quickly get free public access to high speed broadband in advance of the main NBP deployment. The planned BCP locations, including schools, library hubs and local sports are available to view on the High Speed Broadband Map on the Department’s website www.broadband.gov.ie. It should be noted that some BCP locations may be subject to change.
These BCPs will leverage the high speed broadband connection through a range of measures and initiatives, for example providing free public Wi-Fi, some will also have hot-desks, and some will be digital hub business centres where digital training, business information events and other SME supports are organised. The BCP delivery project is well underway and surveying of the BCP locations is progressing, which will facilitate detailed design and installation.
933. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the policy on the development of hydrogen power here; if he has had engagements, discussions or paper exchanges with the Commission for Regulation of Utilities regarding its potential as a power source; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6227/20]
View answerThe Government has set a target of 70% of electricity consumption to come from renewable sources (mainly wind and solar) by 2030 as part of the Climate Action Plan. The production of hydrogen from renewable electricity at times of low electricity demand could provide a zero-emission energy source for use in sectors such as transport and industry.
The European Union’s Green Deal and Industrial Strategy prioritise the need to develop hydrogen in achieving climate neutrality by 2050. The European Commission is also expected to publish a new strategy for smart sector integration which will set out a vision for clean hydrogen. My Department is a member of the European Union’s Hydrogen Energy Network which is a platform for the exchange of information and good practices on hydrogen as an energy carrier. In addition, my Department is a member of the North Seas Energy Cooperation which supports the development of the offshore renewable energy potential in the region and is examining the role that hydrogen can play in reaching our climate and energy ambitions.
At a national level my Department regularly engages with a range of key stakeholders including the Commission for Regulation of Utilities and Gas Networks Ireland. In addition, my Department is a policy stakeholder with Hydrogen Mobility Ireland – an industry-led group seeking to develop hydrogen as a transport fuel.
My Department will continue to work with European and national stakeholders to develop policy in relation to the role of hydrogen in Ireland’s transition to a low carbon economy and society.
934. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if a new wind farm located here that feeds its electricity into the Northern Ireland grid will be able to qualify for funding under the proposed new renewable electricity support scheme; if not, if contractual arrangements that provide for the power to be sold on from the Northern Ireland grid to end users here would ensure that the electricity produced can qualify for the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6237/20]
View answerThe Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) is an auction based framework whereby renewable electricity projects compete to receive a guaranteed support price for the electrical energy they produce. The first RESS auction is underway and the qualification window closed on 30 April 2020.
The terms and conditions of the first RESS auction states that eligible projects must be geographically located in the Republic of Ireland (section 6.4.11 refers) and have either (i) an existing grid connection agreement with ESB Networks or EirGrid or, (ii) be eligible to receive a grid connection offer from these system operators under the Enduring Connection Policy-1 (section 6.4.5 refers). Therefore, the project referred to is not eligible to compete in the first RESS auction. For clarity, it is noted that if a project is connecting into another jurisdiction then the grid connection offer would be issued by the relevant system operator in that jurisdiction.
The RESS support is linked to the individual project successful in an auction, therefore, support payments are only made for energy produced by RESS projects. However, other routes to market and contractual arrangements may be open to such projects, such as corporate power purchase agreements.
935. Deputy Roderic O'Gorman asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if there is legislation addressing emissions from the domestic burning of wood in open fires or in stoves; if not, his plans to bring forward legislation on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6324/20]
View answerSuccessive Governments have committed to substantially reducing air pollution and achieving significant improvements in ambient air quality. For example, the ban on the sale, marketing, distribution and burning of bituminous coal (the "smoky coal ban”, as it is commonly known) – which was first introduced in Dublin in 1990 and now applies to another 26 areas which are know as "low smoke zones" - has been very effective in improving air quality and public health within these areas. An additional group of 13 urban areas are due to be designated as "low smoke zones" from September 2020.
Regulating the sale and use of wood for domestic heating is challenging because of the wide range of sources of wood available and the considerable variation in the quality of the wood itself. It must also be considered in tandem with other sources of solid fuels used in homes across the country, to ensure that any measures introduced would be effective in reducing emissions, as well as being fair, reasonable and enforceable. Stakeholder engagement will, therefore, play an important role in any such process.
A number of measures to improve air quality and reduce emissions from wood burning have already been adopted. The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has taken steps to raise the standard of wood used through the voluntary Wood Fuel Quality Assurance Scheme, as better quality wood with a low moisture content tends to have lower emissions.
Meanwhile, the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) has developed standards for solid biofuels, including wood biomass, under Technical Committee (TC) 335 Solid Biofuels, which Ireland has adopted. Although it is not a legal obligation for fuel suppliers to apply this standard, it is strongly recommended that consumers look for fuels meeting the standard when purchasing wood fuels.
Also at EU level, Ireland supported the introduction of stringent emission standards from solid fuel space heaters under the Eco Design Directive (2009/125/EC). These standards will apply to all new stoves, and must be introduced by the year 2022. A number of manufacturers have already placed a range of “Eco Design Stoves” on the market.
As regards the broader issue of Ireland's overall air quality, significant air quality gains will be realised as a consequence of many of the actions contained in the Climate Action Plan. The Department is also currently developing an all-of-Government Clean Air Strategy which will provide an overarching policy framework within which clean air policies can be formulated and given effect in a manner consistent with national priorities, as well as EU and other international policy considerations.
936. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the position regarding the provision of broadband for a person close to the area covered by Eir fibre broadband network (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6436/20]
View answerThe government is committed to delivering high speed broadband to every home, farm, business and school in Ireland. It is vital that we ensure the people of rural Ireland have the same opportunities as the people in our towns and cities.
The Question refers to a premises which is located in the AMBER area on the NBP High Speed Broadband Map which is available on my Department's website at www.broadband.gov.ie. The AMBER area represents the area to be served by the network to be deployed under the NBP State led Intervention, the contract for which was signed in November last with National Broadband Ireland (NBI).
All counties will see premises passed in the first 2 years and over 90% of premises in the State will have access to high speed broadband within the next four years. The NBP network will offer users a high speed broadband service with a minimum download speed of 150Mbps from the outset. By the end of next year, NBI plans to pass approximately 115,000 premises, with 70,000 - 100,000 passed each year thereafter until rollout is completed.
With regard to the fibre installation close the premises mentioned in the Question, eir’s rural deployment of high speed broadband is a commercial undertaking and not part of the planned State Intervention network. It is not funded by the State and is not planned, designed or directed by my Department in any capacity. The decision as to what areas and premises are served was made by eir internally and on a commercial basis. My Department has no statutory authority to intervene in that process.
To support remote working and connected communities, approximately 300 Broadband Connections Points (BCPs) are scheduled to be connected to high speed broadband this year. This will assist communities to quickly get free public access to high speed broadband in advance of the main NBP deployment. The planned BCP locations, including schools, library hubs and local sports are available to view on the High Speed Broadband Map on the Department’s website www.broadband.gov.ie. It should be noted that some BCP locations may be subject to change.
These BCPs will leverage the high speed broadband connection through a range of measures and initiatives, for example providing free public Wi-Fi, some will also have hot-desks, and some will be digital hub business centres where digital training, business information events and other SME supports are organised. The BCP delivery project is well underway and surveying of the BCP locations is progressing, which will facilitate detailed design and installation.
938. Deputy Frankie Feighan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if hedgerows on agricultural land should be included and counted towards the total reduction targets in climate emissions in view of the fact that they are natural carbon collectors (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6469/20]
View answerGreenhouse gas emissions and removals associated with land use, land use change and forestry (LULUCF) are reported in Ireland's greenhouse gas emissions inventory prepared by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and submitted annually to the EU and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. LULUCF includes activities associated with forestry, croplands, grasslands, wetlands, settlements and other lands. Hedgerows, as landscape features within the cropland and grassland categories, can form part of the emission and removal estimates for these land use categories. It is important to note that emissions and removals of greenhouse gases associated with land based activities are reported in a different category to those associated with agricultural activity, in line with international reporting guidelines.
While such emissions are not currently accounted for in relation to the calculation of compliance with Ireland's emissions targets in the period to 2020, from 2021 onwards these emissions will be integrated into the EU framework for compliance with national emissions targets. It is, therefore, essential that Ireland has robust policies in place to manage emissions and enhance removals from LULUCF.
939. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if he has met formally with the director general of RTÉ in the past three months. [6505/20]
View answerI met with the Director General of RTÉ once in the last three months; the meeting took place by videoconference on 8th April, 2020.
940. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the current and capital expenditure allocations to TG4 in each of the years 2018 to 2020, in tabular form. [6536/20]
View answerThe information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table and comprises outturn figures for 2018 and 2019 and the Revised Estimate for 2020:
|
|
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
|
Current Funding |
€33,790,000 |
€34,233,000 |
€34,233,000 |
|
Capital Funding |
€2,000,000 |
€2,000,000 |
€3,000,000 |
|
Total |
€35,790,000 |
€36,233,000 |
€37,233,000 |
*TG4 also received a once off capital grant of €985,000 in 2018 for expenditure relating to Bliain na Gaeilge.
942. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the funding available to local authorities to install public e-car charging points in each of the past two years; the funding each local authority has requested and drawn down in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6547/20]
View answerUnder the Climate Action Plan, the Public Charge Point Scheme has been in place since September 2019 to provide funding to local authorities for the development of on-street public chargers. The primary focus of this scheme is to provide support for the installation of infrastructure which will facilitate owners of EVs, who do not have access to a private parking space but rely on parking their vehicles in public places to charge their EVs.
The Climate Action Plan commits to the development of an eletric vehicle charger strategy to ensure that the supply of vehicle charging infrastructure stays ahead of demand.
My Department, via the SEAI, currently provides a grant of up to €5,000 to support the installation of these charge points. Budget 2020 provided an allocation of €2 million which can support up to 400 on-street charge points this year. Since the launch of the scheme, the SEAI has received 12 requests from various local authorities for the scheme with two local authorities planning to install 24 charge points as outlined in the table. It is hoped that these projects will commence shortly once the terms and conditions have been finalised by the SEAI.
|
Dublin City Council |
4 charge points |
|
Louth County Council |
20 charge points |
As we emerge from the Covid pandemic and enter the recovery phase the further roll out of the Public Charge Point Scheme is expected to intensify. In this regard the Government is fully committed to supporting this programme and the other supports it has made available for the roll out of EVs so as to ensure we meet our ambitious commitments as set out in the Climate Action Plan.
943. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the position regarding the turnaround times for new eircodes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6731/20]
View answerEircodes are assigned to new property addresses using a valid postal address and verified geo-locations. An Post collects information on new and existing buildings, as well as changes to existing addresses and Ordnance Survey Ireland provides the geo-locations for these buildings. An Post GeoDirectory issue a new release of the GeoDirectory database file on a quarterly basis to Capita Business Support Services Ireland, trading as Eircode, in accordance with their licence agreement.
Each new postal address assigned an Eircode is published on the free to use Eircode Finder website, a notification letter is issued to the property occupant containing the Eircode of that address and an updated Eircode Database is provided to licenced businesses for their use. Eircode have informed my Department that over 110,000 property addresses have been assigned an Eircode since the launch in 2015.
In recognition of the fact that earlier assignment of Eircodes to new builds is desirable, my officials are working with An Post, Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSi), An Post GeoDirectory and Capita to improve and expedite the existing process.
944. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the engagements he has had with utility companies in an effort to reduce consumer utility bills during the Covid-19 crisis; if he has considered or proposed the introduction of off-peak rates on a permanent basis for telephone, broadband, electricity and gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6762/20]
View answerI recognise how vital telecommunications services are to citizens for so many aspects of their daily lives, including remote working and staying in touch with family members during the Covid-19 crisis. I and my officials are also very focussed on the need to ensure that telecommunications customers are sympathetically treated at this very challenging time. In that regard, officials from my Department have been engaging intensively with ComReg and with telecommunications industry.
As the Deputy may be aware, I recently signed regulations enabling ComReg to release additional rights of use for radio spectrum on a temporary basis. This will provide flexibility for mobile network operators to create additional capacity for mobile phone and broadband services and accommodate the increased demand at this time.
In addition, on 15th of April 2020, I announced that all major telecommunications providers have committed to a number of measures to help people stay in touch and work from home during Covid 19 including:
1. Any fixed broadband customers who do not have unlimited usage already as standard will be given the opportunity, if they require, to upgrade their package (which may be on a temporary basis), with their current service provider.
2. Any customer who does not have fixed broadband and who relies solely on mobile access to the Internet will have the opportunity to avail of affordable unlimited mobile data access/package from their service provider.
3. Fair usage policies will not be automatically applied to unlimited fixed and mobile data packages.
4. Service providers may implement appropriate permitted traffic management measures to avoid network congestion.
5. Access to healthcare and educational resource websites identified by the Government will be zero-rated for all customers where technically feasible.
6. So that customers can remain connected during the crisis, service providers will engage with any customer that contacts them who is in financial difficulty as a result of Covid-19 and has difficulty paying their bills to agree the best way of keeping them connected to voice and data.
7. Service Providers will work with ComReg in the event of complaints raised to ComReg by consumers, who consider they are not being treated in accordance with these commitments.
In addition to these measures, operators have also independently implemented further supports for consumers, with one operator recently announcing a range of packages providing unlimited data while another operator has removed all limits on calls, text and data.
In relation to energy utilities, the supply of electricity and gas are also vital services for citizens for so many aspects of their daily lives. Responsibility for the regulation of electricity and gas markets is a matter for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) which is an independent regulator under domestic and EU regulatory legislation accountable to a Committee of the Oireachtas. Among the CRU’s responsibilities is that of consumer protection and, given that statutory function, the CRU has pro actively taken several measures to protect domestic consumers in light of the Covid-19 pandemic:
1. One very significant measure is the temporary moratorium on all domestic electricity and gas disconnections until 16 June 2020, prior to which the CRU will further assess the situation.
2. Another measure CRU has taken is to increase emergency credit levels for all gas domestic prepayment customers from €10 to €100, as such customers do not have the options that electricity prepayment customers have, to purchase credit online or over the phone.
3. In general where domestic customers have difficulty paying their electricity or gas bill CRU advises that customers should contact their supplier and seek to come to agreement on a payment plan. The CRU requires suppliers to arrange practical payment plans to assist these customers who have built up arrears and such arrangements must take into account the customer’s circumstances and must be reasonable and affordable.
4. As regards non-domestic customers, CRU has recently implemented a temporary supply suspension scheme for those impacted by COVID-19 restrictions. The scheme is available to Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s) that have been closed due to COVID-19 restrictions. Any customer who opts to enter the scheme will have no energy or network charges billed for their business premises supply point for the duration that the measure is in place.
To further assist customers who are concerned about paying their electricity or gas bill during this time, CRU has provided a suite of useful information on their website which can be accessed at www.cru.ie/home/about-cru/energy/difficulty-paying-your-bill-covid-19/ and which is updated on an ongoing basis. The CRU has indicated that it is continuing to monitor the market and will take action where appropriate to protect customers.
The Deputy may wish to note that CRU provide a dedicated email address for Oireachtas members, which enables them raise questions directly to CRU at oireachtas@cru.ie for timely direct reply.
945. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the amount of coal imported from a mine (details supplied) in 2019 for use in the Moneypoint power station; if his attention has been drawn to the reputation of the mine for the destruction of the environment, forcible displacement of indigenous people and Afro-Colombians living in the area and workers' rights abuses including harassment and threats of community and human rights defenders from state forces; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that the mine has continued uninterrupted operation during the Covid-19 crisis, placing workers and their families at great risk; his plans to seek coal elsewhere while Moneypoint remains open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6787/20]
View answerThe procurement of fuels for ESB power stations is an operational matter for ESB and not one in which I, as Minister, have a statutory function. However, I do wish to address the concerns raised.
I can confirm that ESB has not received coal from the Cerrejón mine since 2018.
The government in the Climate Action Plan has committed to the complete phase out of coal and peat in the generation of electricity.
Since 2015, the amount of coal burned to generate electricity has reduced by 85% and this has contributed to a 13% reduction in green house gases in Ireland since 2005.
I am fully aware of the concerns expressed in relation to the Cerrejón mine. ESB joined Bettercoal, an organisation established by coal buyers to work towards a globally responsible coal supply, in 2014 as part of their commitment to use responsibly sourced coal. I understand that Bettercoal, following an assessment of the Cerrejón mine which indicated that the mine’s operating principles are essentially in line with the Bettercoal best practice code, introduced a Continuous Improvement Plan for the mine and assesses progress against this on an ongoing basis.
The Tánaiste has confirmed that our Embassy in Colombia visited the La Guajira region in September 2019, meeting with stakeholders, including local communities, Cerrejón management, local government, and civic leaders.
The Embassy reported that there are a range of complex issues and challenges in the region and that there is a lack of trust between the local authorities, communities, and the mine. They concluded that efforts should be made to improve communication between the local communities and the mine and recommended that these communities should be included in plans for the closure of the mine by 2033, to ensure the delivery of a just transition for the region. The Embassy engaged with national Government, NGO partners, and Cerrejón management to share feedback and continue to monitor the situation.
The Embassy understands that measures have been put in place by Cerrejón management to ensure a safe work environment during the COVID-19 pandemic, with all bar essential operations ceased. According to the mine company a number of protocols regarding the protection of workers have also been introduced.
946. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment his plans to further support local newspapers that are being forced to enter into liquidation as a result of loss of revenue due to Covid-19. [6843/20]
View answerI have no statutory function in relation to newspapers other than in respect of media mergers.
947. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the steps taken by the mobile telephone service providers and landline service providers to ease access to complaints, payment of bills or other administrative changes during the Covid-19 crisis; if urgent arrangements will be put in place to ensure the availability of a person other than automated systems to deal with urgent inquires; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6878/20]
View answer948. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if arrangements have been made by his Department and broadband service providers to improve broadband services for customers required to work from home due to Covid-19 restrictions and living in areas of limited access to broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6879/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 947 and 948 together.
I recognise how vital telecommunications services are to citizens for so many aspects of their daily lives, including remote working, studying and staying in touch with family members during the Covid-19 crisis. I and my officials are also very focussed on the need to ensure that telecommunications customers are sympathetically treated at this very challenging time. In that regard, officials from my Department have been engaging intensively with ComReg and with telecommunications industry.
As the Deputy may be aware, I recently signed regulations enabling ComReg to release additional rights of use for radio spectrum on a temporary basis. This will provide flexibility for mobile network operators to create additional capacity for mobile phone and broadband services and accommodate the increased demand at this time.
In addition, on 15th of April 2020, I announced that all major telecommunications providers have committed to a number of measures to help people stay in touch, study and work from home during Covid 19 including:
1. Any fixed broadband customers who do not have unlimited usage already as standard will be given the opportunity, if they require, to upgrade their package (which may be on a temporary basis), with their current service provider.
2. Any customer who does not have fixed broadband and who relies solely on mobile access to the Internet will have the opportunity to avail of affordable unlimited mobile data access/package from their service provider.
3. Fair usage policies will not be automatically applied to unlimited fixed and mobile data packages.
4. Service providers may implement appropriate permitted traffic management measures to avoid network congestion.
5. Access to healthcare and educational resource websites identified by the Government will be zero-rated for all customers where technically feasible.
6. So that customers can remain connected during the crisis, service providers will engage with any customer that contacts them who is in financial difficulty as a result of Covid-19 and has difficulty paying their bills to agree the best way of keeping them connected to voice and data.
7. Service Providers will work with ComReg in the event of complaints raised to ComReg by consumers, who consider they are not being treated in accordance with these commitments.
In addition to these measures, o perators have also independently implemented further supports for consumers, with a number of operators recently announcing a range of packages providing unlimited data with one operator removing all limits on calls, text and data.
Telecommunications service providers, are regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), which operates independently of my Department. The telecommunications regulatory framework which ComReg implements, requires each provider to establish and operate a code of practice, including requirements for complaint handling. Service Providers must implement these measures, at a minimum, to assist consumers (including businesses) when they need to contact them with a complaint. A copy of the code of practice, which includes the three ways in which consumers can contact service providers, can be accessed at: https://www.comreg.ie/code-practice-handling-complaints/ .Any operator failing to comply with any of these requirements is a matter to be pursued by ComReg.
In relation to the use of automated services, the majority of operators use an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) to route calls to the relevant customer support area. Many of the IVRs also advise on the current call waiting times. The majority of operators also offer on-line and web chat functions for speedy resolution of standard queries, in addition to non- automated query handling as appropriate.
As mentioned above, Service Providers have committed to engaging with any customer that contacts them who is in financial difficulty as a result of Covid-19 and has difficulty paying their bills to agree the best way of keeping them connected to voice and data. Furthermore, Service Providers have also committed to working with ComReg in the event of complaints raised to ComReg by consumers, who consider they are not being treated in accordance with Covid-19 commitments.
949. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if funding for the getting citizens online grant scheme has been cancelled; if so, the impact on providers that were part way through the scheme; his plans for a modified programme to be established in view of the increased need to get older persons online due to Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6950/20]
View answerThe Digital Skills for Citizens Scheme provides digital skills training for people who have never used the internet with a view to removing a key barrier to digital adoption. Since 2017 over 57,000 people have participated in training under the Scheme.
All organisations delivering digital skills training under the Scheme have been pre-funded to train a specific number of people in line with their respective grant agreements. The ability to deliver training classes has necessarily been impacted by Covid-19 pandemic.My officials will work with these organisations to find safe solutions which comply with public health guidance, to afford them the opportunity to deliver training and meet their targets.
The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the need to provide support and opportunities to empower everyone to get online.With this in mind the future path of the Scheme is currently under consideration by my Department.
950. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the action he is taking to ensure better home energy savings from investment in home energy efficiency schemes; the measures being implemented on foot of the report from the European Court of Auditors on the use of EU finance for energy efficiency programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7000/20]
View answerMy Department funds a number of SEAI grant schemes to help homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their properties. Since 2000, approximately 400,000 homeowners have upgraded their homes with support from these schemes. This has resulted in warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes that are easier to heat and light. Approximately €120 million has been allocated to residential and community energy efficiency schemes in 2020. The SEAI and Department monitor the impact of the schemes on an ongoing basis.
A recently published audit conducted by the European Court of Auditors assessed whether EU co-funded energy efficiency investments in buildings, including under Ireland’s Warmer Homes Scheme, had cost-effectively helped the EU toward its 2020 energy saving target. The primary aim of the Warmer Homes Scheme is to address energy poverty by delivering energy efficiency measures to those homeowners deemed to be in, or at risk of, such poverty. The programme delivers many benefits to homeowners including improved comfort, quality of life, and health. Since 2000, the scheme has provided upgrades to over 142,000 homes across Ireland, improving the lives of some of Ireland’s most vulnerable citizens. The Scheme underwent a significant change in mid-2018, expanding to include more extensive measures, including external wall insulation which is now funded under the scheme. This has resulted in deeper retrofits and greater energy savings for homeowners. In 2018, 77% of homes upgraded under the scheme saw at least one energy consumption classification change.
It is important to note that the scope of the Court of Auditors report addresses EU funding of the scheme over the period 2014-2018 in terms of energy efficiency only and not other benefits such as energy poverty reductions, which is the primary aim of the scheme. Furthermore,the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform is currently undertaking a social impact assessment of the SEAI’s energy poverty schemes, including the Warmer Homes Scheme.
The Climate Action Plan sets an ambitious target of 500,000 energy efficiency retrofits by 2030. Achievement of this target will be supported by the Project Ireland 2040 allocation of €3.7 billion as well as the range of measures identified in the Plan. To deliver our target, a Retrofit Taskforce has been established which will develop a plan to implement a new retrofitting delivery model. The target for development of the plan is Q3 2020. The audit findings will be considered in the context of the reform and development of energy efficiency schemes.
951. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the amount spent on external consultants by his Department in 2019; the average hourly rate; if caps or limits on such spending are in place; the way in which conflicts of interest are managed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7276/20]
View answerMy Department's remit includes complex policy areas, oversight of State regulation and service provision across key strategic services such as energy, environment, climate change and public broadcasting, as well as regulation of sectors such as mining and hydrocarbon exploration. Given the technical complexity, economic significance and community interest in these areas, there is a requirement to disseminate information and to address specific issues as they arise. My Department therefore necessarily incurs some expenditure on consultancies from time to time.
In procuring these services, my Department always seeks to ensure value for money and to keep expenditure to the minimum necessary. Any conflicts of interest are managed in accordance with appointment and contractual provisions. All contracts are procured and delivered in line with procurement best practice.
The details of theses consultancies are outlined in the table at the link. The majority of the contracts awarded by my Department are on a fixed rate basis and no hourly breakdown is available. In some instances such specific details are commercially sensitive and subject to contract. Spending is managed in line with the specific appointment and contractual provisions applying.
952. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he will take to ensure that persons do not lose out financially if a no travel advisory is issued in cases in which airlines do not cancel fights; his views on whether persons requested to adhere to the advice should not be punished financially with the cost of forgone flights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5554/20]
View answerThe law is clear in circumstances where an airline cancels a flight - for whatever reason - that all passengers booked on that flight who seek it are entitled to a full cash refund within 7 days. That provision is set out in EU Regulation 261 (2004). Notwithstanding the contraints arising from the COVID pandemic, a small number of flights are continuing to be operated. Where a flight takes place there is nothing in the law that entitles a passenger to a refund from an airline.
My understanding is that the current practice of the two main Irish airlines serving the Irish market is to offer the opportunity to rebook a flight for later in the year or receive a voucher. I am not aware that people are losing out entirely in these circumstances.
953. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will assist the creditors of a company (details supplied) in particular those who applied for their J1 programme through the company and are now out of pocket; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5588/20]
View answerThere are insolvency protection arrangements in place for customers of tour operators and travel agents licensed to trade in Ireland. These arrangements are administered by the Commission for Aviation Regulation. The meaures include provison for the repatriation of stranded travellers and reimbursements for travel not undertaken.
Customers of the company in question may be covered by the consumer protection scheme if they purchased a package that includes overseas travel.
The customers of the company must complete the relevant claim form and supply supporting documentation as set out in the Commission’s notice, available on its Web site at https://www.aviationreg.ie. For customers of this company, claims must be submitted by 26 May 2020. The Commission will then assess these claims to determine any amount due to the claimant.
954. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider refunding a portion of the motor tax to vehicle owners who have had limited or no need to use their vehicles over the course of the Covid-19 crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5635/20]
View answer974. Deputy Paul McAuliffe asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a refund of motor tax prepaid by those who subsequently were advised to cocoon has been considered; and if so, if such a refund can be issued for the months in which Covid-19 restrictions are in place. [5690/20]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 954 and 974 together.
There are no plans to amend the legislation to extend the grounds for the granting of a refund of motor tax at this time.
The legislation which sets out the circumstances for refunds of motor tax provides for refunds only in certain limited circumstances, namely where:
- a vehicle has been scrapped or destroyed;
- a vehicle has been permanently exported;
- a vehicle has been stolen and has not been recovered by the owner;
- a vehicle in respect of which a tax disc has been taken out has not been used in a public place at any time since the issue of the disc;
- the owner of a vehicle has ceased, because of illness, injury or other physical disability, to use the vehicle;
- the owner of a vehicle has ceased, because of absence from the state for business or educational purposes, to use the vehicle; or
- the owner of a vehicle has ceased, because of service overseas with the Defence Forces, to use the vehicle.
In order to obtain a refund, there must also be a minimum of three months remaining on a disc at the time of surrender of the disc to the licensing authority.
However, I wish to advise that there is a facility in place to declare a vehicle off the road.
The Non-Use of Motor Vehicles Act 2013, as amended, provides for a system of declaring vehicles off the road in advance. A declaration must be made in the last month of an existing motor tax disc or a previously made declaration of non-use. The declaration can be made online or in a motor tax office, and can be made for any number of calendar months between 3 and 12 months i.e. it cannot be made for a period of 1 or 2 months. If a vehicle is subsequently required to be put back on the road, the declaration can be broken at any time simply by taxing the vehicle.
955. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the recourse available to consumers to ensure the right to full refunds when airlines cancel flights in view of Covid-19; the consumer statutory entitlements under Irish and EU laws in this area; and the appropriate State body and-or Department that has the lead remit in this area. [5681/20]
View answerConsumer protections for airline passengers and for holiday-makers who book trips through travel agents and tour operators are enshrined in EU law. EU Regulation 261/2004 requires airlines to provide a full cash refund within 7 days in the event that a flight is cancelled by the airline; and EU Directive 2302/2015 on Package Travel requires travel agents and tour operators to provide a full cash refund within 14 days in the event that a package holiday is cancelled, by either the customer or the holiday provider.
The Commission for Aviation Regulation, which is an indepdendent statutory body under my remit, has responsibility for enforcing airline refund obligations in Ireland, and I understand that the Commission recently wrote to all airlines operating routes that service Ireland, reminding them of their legal obligations to provide refunds for cancelled bookings. I am aware that there are significant delays making refunds, and while I can appreciate that there are genuine administrative challenges dealing with the unprecedented level of cancellations, the legal obligation to provide a refund is clear and unchanged. Anyone having difficulties securing a refund should contact the Commission. Further advice is available on its dedicated passenger rights website www.flightrights.ie.
With respect to consumer rights under the Package Travel Directive, where customers of travel agents and/or tour operators are not receiving requested refunds, then they have recourse to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.
