Written Answers.

Insurance Levy.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

14 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Finance if it is planned to reduce or eliminate the insurance levy. [8680/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I have no plans to reduce or eliminate this levy, which yielded about €100 million in 2003 and is forecast to yield a similar amount in 2004.

Tax Harmonisation.

Bernard Allen

Question:

15 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Finance his views on the proposal of the French Finance Minister to harmonise corporation taxes among some member states under the enhanced co-operation provision of the EU Treaties. [8695/04]

Trevor Sargent

Question:

46 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance his views on discussions between the European Commission and other EU member states on the possibility of harmonising corporate tax rates. [8982/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I will take Questions Nos. 15 and 46 together.

In 2001, the Commission issued a communication setting out its twin track approach in the company taxation area as follows: targeting particular obstacles in the short to medium term by taking a direct approach to each of the issues and finding a specific answer to the problem and adopting a longer term comprehensive measure, a common consolidated corporate tax base for companies for their EU-wide activities. The Commission made it clear this did not involve harmonizing rates.

In November 2003, the Commission updated its position with a communication entitled "An Internal Market Without Company Tax Obstacles — Achievements, Ongoing Initiatives and Remaining Challenges". The common consolidated tax base has been discussed at EU conferences and has been the subject of a Commission consultation paper. Ireland does not see the Commission's proposals for a common consolidated base as an appropriate way forward. However, we support efforts to eliminate unfair business tax practices within the EU and the removal of barriers to cross border trade and business.

I understand that what is now being suggested is that member states who favour the common consolidated corporate tax base would proceed under enhanced cooperation. Ireland would not favour such a course. It is, however, a matter for each member state to decide on whether to participate in an enhanced cooperation procedure. Ireland does not intend to do so. In any case, it is not clear that it has been established that we are in a position of "last resort" where adoption of enhanced cooperation would be appropriate.

Ireland's opposition to the harmonisation of corporation tax is well known and clear. It is important that the rights of member states in relation to tax are retained at the national level.

Special Savings Scheme.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

16 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether any scheme should replace the special savings account when it expires. [8655/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The specific goal of the SSIA scheme was to encourage people to save over a period of at least five years. Its effect has been to stimulate such savings over varying income ranges which is evident in the extensive take-up by many low income earners. The scheme has been a success in those terms. The scheme has a specific duration. Any proposals for new schemes either to replace the SSIA scheme or other schemes would be considered as part of the normal annual budgetary process taking account of public policy objectives and Exchequer cost implications.

Tax Code.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

17 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance his views on the contention expressed in the recent publication by the Economic and Social Research Institute, Reforming Pensions in Europe, that tax foregone in reliefs given to encourage private pension provisions now exceed the payment of means tested old age pensions. [8974/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

A recent publication 'Reforming Pensions in Europe' launched at the ESRI deals with a range of pension issues arising in different EU countries. In one of the chapters it is stated that in Ireland, the UK and the US, tax reliefs for private pensions cost more than means-tested pensions. In Ireland, the tax system is used to encourage private pension provision, that is, occupational pension schemes and personal pensions. Tax relief is available for contributions made by the employer, employee or self-employed. Furthermore, the income and gains during the funding period are exempt. However, as a quid pro quo for these reliefs, tax arises when the income is withdrawn from the pension fund in retirement.

The total very tentatively estimated cost of tax relief for pension funding is €2,600 million for the year 2000-1 which is the latest year available. This covers tax relief on contributions by employers, employees and self employed and the exemption from income and gains in the fund. There is very little concrete information in respect of contributions to occupational pension schemes as the relief is effectively given through the payroll system. In this regard, I provided in the Finance Bill 2004 that from February 2005 an employer will be obliged to show the overall amount of employer and employee contributions in the end of year P35 return.

Expenditure on means tested social welfare pensions is estimated at €720 million in 2004. It is Government policy to encourage pension provisions through tax relief as well as through the PRSI system and payment of non-contributory pensions.

Fiscal Policy.

John Perry

Question:

18 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Finance his views on the efforts of European Ministers to reduce the strength of the euro. [8677/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

As Minister for Finance, I have not commented in the past on the euro exchange rate and I do not now propose to make any specific comment on the euro exchange rate. The Eurogroup Ministers meeting on 19 January 2004, with the ECB President Jean Claude Trichet, agreed the following statement on the euro exchange rate.

Concerning exchange rates, our long-term strategy does not change. The euro must keep its value over the medium and long run, in line with economic fundamentals. In the present circumstances we particularly stress stability and we are concerned about excessive exchange rate moves.

I also recently attended the meeting of G7 Finance Ministers held in Florida on 6-7 February in my capacity as President of the ECOFIN Council. The statement issued by the G7 ministers included the following comments on exchange rates:

We reaffirm that exchange rates should reflect economic fundamentals. Excess volatility and disorderly movements in exchange rates are undesirable for economic growth. We continue to monitor exchange markets closely and cooperate as appropriate. In this context, we emphasize that more flexibility in exchange rates is desirable for major countries or economic areas that lack such flexibility to promote smooth and widespread adjustments in the international financial system, based on market mechanisms.

Question No. 19 answered with QuestionNo. 8.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

20 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Finance the sections of Government Departments that have already been relocated outside of Dublin to date; and the extent to which the workers transferred were the original workers attached to each Department concerned. [8980/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Sections of both the Revenue Commissioners and the Office of Public Works have decentralised offices. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the numbers of posts that were initially relocated outside of Dublin under the previous decentralisation programmes to other locations are estimated as follows:

	Staff
Nenagh	215
Ennis	152
Limerick	550
Dundalk	86
Rosslare	47

The estimated percentage of those staff already serving in Revenue prior to decentralisation were as follows:

	%
Nenagh	30
Ennis	51
Limerick	31
Dundalk	90
Rosslare	98

The accounts branch of the Office of Public Works decentralised to Kilkenny in 1997. I am informed by the OPW that of the 27 posts involved, five were filled by staff who had already been with the OPW prior to the announcement of decentralisation.

Tax Yield.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

21 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance if late payments by State agencies to companies are taken into account in relation to payments sought from such companies from Revenue Commissioners. [8981/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, where a company is having difficulty in meeting its tax obligations, all aspects of the company's business, including late payment by the company's customers, are taken in to account in considering the action to be taken.

Revenue's consistent advice in such cases is that the company should contact Revenue to discuss the situation so that an appropriate arrangement for dealing with the issue can be considered.

Fiscal Policy.

Damien English

Question:

22 Mr. English asked the Minister for Finance if he plans to introduce new procedures for the presentation of proposals for spending and taxation in Dáil Éireann which would be more meaningful and more timely; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8668/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The Estimates outline the Government's main spending proposals and they are presented to Dáil Éireann in accordance with the Standing Orders of the Dáil. I normally present the pre-budget or Abridged Estimates Volume (AEV) to Dáil Éireann approximately two weeks before budget day. The post-budget or Revised Estimates Volume (REV) is normally presented to the Dáil within eight weeks of the start of the fiscal year to which it relates. The Estimates by departmental Vote are then subject to individual scrutiny and approval by the relevant Oireachtas committee.

As regards taxation, the financial statement on budget day outlines the main taxation measures proposed. The details of these proposed measures are contained in the accompanying budget book, which is distributed to Members on budget day. The budget and Finance Bill debates provide the House with the opportunity to give its views on these measures. I do not have any plans to amend the arrangements outlined. I will, however, inform the Deputy of some reforms introduced and ongoing consideration under way which are of relevance to his question.

In my Budget Statement of 3 December 2003, I announced a major change in the financial treatment of capital spending through the introduction of rolling five year multi-annual capital envelopes. In implementing the new envelope system, I intend to allow Departments to carry over to the following year, subject to Dáil approval, any unspent Exchequer capital allocations, up to a maximum of 10% of each year's voted capital allocation.

The capital envelopes, including the carry-over arrangement, as well as leading to improvements in the management of capital programmes, will mean changes in the presentation of voted capital monies to the Dáil. The Finance Bill 2004 makes provision for the new carry-over arrangement. Under the new arrangements, as envisaged in the Finance Bill, the Dáil will be apprised of the amounts to be carried over in the AEV and it will be asked to approve the amounts on three separate occasions: the Appropriation Act of the carry-over year; a ministerial order which must be approved by the Dáil in the following year; and in the REV of the following year. The 2004 Public Capital Programme (PCP) included material relating to the multi-annual capital envelopes and it is intended that future PCPs will provide more project level information on major capital projects when the envelopes are fully operational.

Changes by way of tidying up or rationalising subheads and-or Votes have been made in the REV in recent years in consultation, as appropriate, with the Committee of Public Accounts. The 2004 REV contained a revised presentation of the subheads in the Vote for the Department of Agriculture and Food so that the Vote better reflects the Department's main goals, as set out in its Statement of Strategy, and facilitates a match between the subheads of the Vote and the main programmes or strategic areas of the Department.

Work is ongoing on a pilot project under the aegis of my Department, involving the Departments of Agriculture and Food, Social and Family Affairs and Transport, to examine ways of improving the information available on the relationships between the resources deployed and the outcomes. The results of this pilot project will be evaluated and consideration will be given as to whether this approach should be mainstreamed across Departments. If it is considered that the pilot project should be further developed and mainstreamed, I will bring proposals to Government and to the Committee of Public Accounts. I expect the pilot project working group will furnish its draft report in the next few months.

Public Private Partnerships.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

23 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the impact on public investment of the recent changes in the system for accounting for projects with private sector participation. [8703/04]

John Gormley

Question:

70 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Finance the way in which EUROSTAT changes in the way public private partnerships can be accounted for will result in announcements in infrastructure projects being funded through such a mechanism; and when. [8978/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 70 together.

I welcome the recent clarification from EUROSTAT as to the accounting treatment of public private partnerships. It will assist Departments in implementing the ambitious PPP investment target of €3.6 billion in the period 2004-2008 under the five year rolling multi-annual capital investment envelopes which I announced in the 2004 budget.

Public private partnership investment is an important component of the five year investment envelope. The latter is set at 5% of GNP, over twice the EU average. The objective of the investment envelope is to address our infrastructure deficiencies. To the extent that the EUROSTAT ruling provides greater clarity it will assist this objective. Individual projects, PPP or otherwise, are a matter in the first instance for relevant Departments. I look forward to the implementation of these PPP targets by individual Departments taking account of the EUROSTAT clarification.

It might be noted that the overall investment envelope will be reviewed in the context of the 2005 budget taking account of budget sustainability and, as appropriate, the EUROSTAT clarification.

Tax Yield.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

24 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance his views on the case for tax neutrality to accompany carbon taxation in order that proceeds of the new tax are used to reduce the tax burden on other resource friendly items. [8651/04]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

41 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the progress made by his Department in its consideration of the consultation papers on carbon taxes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8945/04]

John Gormley

Question:

83 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Finance if he remains committed to the introduction of a carbon tax as outlined in his Budget 2003 speech; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8977/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 24, 41 and 83 together.

In my budget speech in December 2002, I said there would be full consultation with interested parties on the design of a carbon energy tax. In July 2003, I commenced this consultation process and made available a carbon energy tax consultation paper prepared by my Department. This consultation paper was designed to facilitate discussions on the introduction and design of the carbon energy tax while recognising that there are divergent views on the issue. The paper gave a concise overview of the issues relevant to consideration of the proposal including revenue recycling or 'tax neutrality'. Submissions in response to the paper were invited from interested parties to be received in this Department by 30 September 2003, but extra time was given where requested by organisations to complete their submissions. Some 117 submissions were received by my Department in response to the carbon taxation consultation paper.

The issue of revenue neutrality and recycling will be examined, along with all other relevant considerations, during the development of the carbon energy tax proposal in the coming months. Such an examination will include consideration of whether the tax should be recycled to the sectors on which it is levied or whether it should be used for other purposes including reducing the tax burden on other sectors. It would not be appropriate for me to comment further on any particular issue at this stage. The current step in this process is the examination of submissions received in the Department. As part of the consultation process, these submissions are now also available publicly via my Department's website.

Decentralisation Programme.

Liz McManus

Question:

25 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Finance if an assurance has been sought from public service unions that civil servants who opt not to participate in the Government’s proposed decentralisation programme will not suffer in regard to promotional prospects; if such an assurance has been given; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8933/04]

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

53 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Finance if promotion opportunities have been made dependent on a willingness to decentralise. [8688/04]

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

78 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance the nature of the threats posed to the Government’s Department relocation programme by the reluctance to this policy being shown at recent annual conference of public service unions. [8973/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose to take questions 25, 53 and 78 together.

I have made it clear on many occasions that the decentralisation programme will operate on a voluntary basis. Civil and public servants who do not wish to transfer to a decentralised location will be assigned to alternative public service posts in Dublin. The exact procedures which will apply in such cases will be dealt with as part of the implementation process, which is being overseen by the implementation group. These arrangements are also being discussed with the public service unions.

Decentralisation will inevitably change the way in which the public service will operate in the future. In the case of promotion prospects, there will continue to be broadly speaking the same opportunities across the service but the impact on individuals, both those serving in Dublin and outside Dublin, will depend upon a variety of factors. The decentralised nature of the service will mean that people, particularly those at the more senior levels, will in the future have to consider their career prospects in the light of the opportunities that arise both in Dublin and outside Dublin. I would also expect, for example, that the question of regional promotion structures is an issue that is likely to arise in the discussions with the unions. Promotion practices for the future will have to have regard to decentralisation.

One of the advantages of the decentralisation programme is that it will create a wider range of work and career opportunities for individuals working outside Dublin than is currently the case. Present and future civil servants who aspire to senior management positions will no longer have to migrate to the capital, although many may well continue to do so. Similarly, individuals serving in Dublin will be able to pursue their careers within Dublin but, again, many may choose to avail of promotion opportunities in decentralised offices.

I am confident arrangements will be put in place to ensure that sufficient staff are available to carry out the work of the Department and agencies involved in the decentralisation programme.

Public Sector Jobs.

Dan Boyle

Question:

26 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the discrepancy between the figures of his Department and those of the Central Statistics Office and FÁS in relation to growth of public sector jobs in 2003. [8971/04]

Paul Connaughton

Question:

71 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Finance his plans for the development of public service numbers over the next three years. [8702/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose taking Questions Nos. 26 and 71 together.

The FÁS labour market commentary drew employment figures from the CSO quarterly national household survey 2003 quarter 3 which do not purport to be an indicator of public service employment. As I have stated previously, the CSO classification of "Public Services" includes sizeable private sector elements in the Health and Education sectors including work without a public sector parallel. For example the health sector figure includes private sector health practitioners and providers and also private crèche workers. The education sector figure includes private schools, colleges, and training providers.

As regards public sector employment, a more relevant CSO series is that on public sector employment and earnings, although it should be noted that this survey includes the commercial State companies, which are not covered by the Government's numbers policy, and only includes figures in respect of the health sector, which is covered by the numbers policy, annually, in respect of December, rather than quarterly as for all other sectors. The most recent figures available under this series are in respect of September 2003, published on 18 February. This shows a reduction of 5,000, from 240,700 to 235,700, between June and September 2003. There is certainly a seasonal element in this but the reduction in 2003 was more than double the average reduction in the same months in the previous three years.

It is also worth noting that the CSO figures under both headings discussed above include all employees whether full-time or part-time. The surveys cover those who worked at least one hour in the reference week for most sectors. The most appropriate measure for the purposes of monitoring the effect of the Government's policy on public service numbers is whole time equivalents. On this basis my Department's figures show a total public service employment of 279,274 at 31 December 2002 and an estimated 279,991 at 31 December 2003 with a projected figure of 278,145 at the end of 2004.

Therefore, the level of public service employment, having risen steadily over several years up to 2002, stabilised in 2003 and should fall this year. Within that overall 2003 picture, numbers are marginally up in the health sector, attributable mainly to persons taken on as public servants during 2003 following the withdrawal of certain private and voluntary providers from areas of the health service; numbers in the Education sector rose by about 1,250, largely attributable to special needs education provision; while numbers reduced in the rest of the public service.

I intend achieving a reduction of 5,000 in authorised numbers by the end of 2005. I consider that good progress has been made to date and I am satisfied public service employers are taking the appropriate steps to ensure that this demanding target will be reached.

Pension Provisions.

Joan Burton

Question:

27 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance if he has plans to introduce ethical guidelines to cover the investments made by the National Pensions Fund to ensure that the public money is not put into inappropriate investments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8920/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The National Pensions Reserve Fund is managed by commissioners who are independent of Government. They control and manage the fund with discretionary authority to determine and implement an investment strategy for the fund. This investment strategy is based on a commercial investment mandate with the objective of securing the optimal return over the long term, having regard to the purpose of the fund as set out in section 18(1) of the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000 and the payment requirements of the fund as provided for under section 20 of the Act, provided the level of risk to the moneys held or invested is acceptable to the commission.

These features of the Act are similar to the trustee arrangements which exist in private pension funds. Along with the statutory prohibition on draw-downs from the fund prior to 2025, they insulate the fund from day to day pressures on Government and enable the commission to take a long-term view. This is essential if the purpose for which the fund was established, to meet as much as possible of the cost to the Exchequer of pension payments from the year 2025 until at least the year 2055, is to be achieved.

Section 19 of the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000 provides that, in investing fund moneys, the commission shall seek to optimise total financial return provided the level of risk is acceptable to the commission. Therefore, the commission is required to adopt a standard commercial investment policy and it does not have discretion to choose not to invest in particular sectors or companies for anything other than commercial reasons.

In determining the investment policy of the fund during the drafting of the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act, I considered whether this policy should be strictly commercial or whether it should be qualified by ethical, environment and other public policy criteria. A major difficulty in deciding on an ethical investment policy is where to draw the line, given that there will inevitably be different opinions and intense debate on what constitutes ethical and socially responsible investments. In short, there is unlikely to be broad consensus on any ethical investment policy. I have no plans to revisit this matter.

Under the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act, the chairperson of the commission is required to appear before the Committee of Public Accounts at that committee's request. Furthermore, the commission's annual report must be laid before each house of the Oireachtas and is required to include a detailed list of the fund's assets at year end. These requirements are designed to ensure that detailed information concerning the fund is made available to the public at the appropriate time. The commission's report for 2002 was launched on 23 July 2003.

The commission is specifically required to include in the report information on the investment strategy followed, a report on the investment return achieved by the fund and a valuation of the net assets of the fund at year end. These requirements are designed to ensure that detailed information concerning the fund is made available to the public at the appropriate time.

Decentralisation Programme.

Liam Twomey

Question:

28 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Finance if his Department through the offices of the OPW has given consideration to using Johnstown Castle in County Wexford as the decentralised headquarters of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government taking into account the role this castle has in this country’s heritage, in view of the fact that the Environment Protection Agency headquarters is nearby, that the castle grounds offer a favourable environment to work nearby and that distance and journey times are favourable for travelling to Dublin. [8286/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

In conjunction with the others received, a proposal to use the Johnstown Castle Estate in Wexford as the decentralised headquarters for the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government is under consideration by the Commissioners of Public Works.

Tax Code.

Joe Costello

Question:

29 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Finance the reasons he felt unable to respond to the case made by the Gaelic Players Association for the introduction of a special tax allowance for high performance amateur sportspersons in order to recognise their contribution to society; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8922/04]

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

162 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance the contacts he has had with the Gaelic Players Association in respect of the concerns it expressed about a taxation allowance for high performance amateur sportspersons; his views on the matter; the actions he proposes to take; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8574/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 162 together.

The Gaelic Players Association made representations to me and my Department both by letter and at a number of meetings in respect of the introduction of special tax arrangements for elite amateur sportspersons which would be of benefit to their members. The Gaelic Players Association whose members are not paid in respect of their direct participation in gaelic games proposed a scheme of annual tax credits for elite amateur sportspersons who are resident in the State. As Deputies are also aware this proposal was the subject of considerable discussion during both Committee and Report Stages of this year's Finance Bill. The proposal envisaged that a tax credit of €2,000 would be used against the person's non-sport income since being amateurs, they do not have income arising directly from the sport itself.

Agreeing to the introduction of such a measure would simply result in the taxpayer subsidising certain amateur sportspersons when their own organisations are unwilling to do so. That is the nub of the matter. As I have said on a number of occasions, over the years the needs of GAA players have often been neglected and it was shameful that it was only in recent times that players' concerns had been heard. The GPA is to be complimented on its role in that regard. However, the provision of a new tax credit for each player in recognition of the efforts of GAA players is an entirely different matter. The GPA argument appears to be that because the GAA refuses to pay players for participation in the games, or even reimburse them adequately for legitimate expenses incurred directly as a result of their involvement in games and training sessions, the Government, that is, the taxpayer, should pick up the bill. It is not an argument with which I can agree under any circumstances.

The proposed tax credit of €2,000 per annum per sportsperson is more than the total tax credit available to a non-PAYE single person which stands at €1,520 while the PAYE tax credit itself of €1,040 is almost half of what the GPA proposes be granted to a select group of players. A tax credit of €2,000 is the equivalent of exempting €10,000 of income from tax for a standard rate taxpayer.

The Government has made substantial sums of money available to the GAA at national and local level for the development of facilities which provide the appropriate arenas in which these great national games are played. In the past two years alone the organisation has been allocated no less than €68 million in Exchequer funding, including €1.5 million a year in current funding for the governing body. I am not just referring to Government funding for Croke Park, in respect of which I took more than my fair share of criticism, but for a whole range of GAA facilities built with assistance under the sports capital programme which is administered by my colleague, the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism. The record shows that no Government has been as generous to Irish sport as this Administration. In addition, the GAA has also been exempt from income tax for the past 75 years, since 1928. This relief should not be overlooked by those seeking additional tax concessions.

If it was ever considered desirable to grant €2,000 per annum to all elite sportspersons, a direct grant mechanism would be a more appropriate and fairer measure. A tax credit would not benefit many elite athletes who due to the levels of commitment and time demands of their respective training regimes are often not in a position to hold down full time employment.

In seeking this €2,000 tax credit, the GPA has claimed there is discrimination in the tax code in the treatment of the players represented by them and certain professional athletes. This is not the case. Two years ago, I introduced a scheme of tax relief for certain professional and semi-professional sportspersons which was given by way of a repayment of tax which could be claimed in the year in which the sportsperson retired from active participation in the sport. The relief relates solely to direct sports income and not from sponsorship or other income. However, the position of GAA players vis-à-vis professional sportspersons that can avail of the retirement relief is quite different. In general, specific allowances or credits in the tax system are put in place to compensate taxpayers for necessary expenses incurred in the process of earning an income and not for expenses incurred while undertaking a voluntary activity.

Furthermore, the introduction of this credit would set an unwelcome precedent and would inevitably lead to other voluntary workers demanding a similar credit on equally supportable grounds. If these sportspersons were to get a special tax credit to acknowledge their expenses relating to the activity and their contribution to the community it would be near impossible not to extend this to other categories of individuals who give of their time and incur expenses in a wide variety of community, youth and other voluntary work. Many of the voluntary and charitable organisations to which they contribute are far less likely to be able to meet expenses of these individuals than the GAA can.

Disabled Drivers.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

30 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the delay in publishing the review group report on drivers and passengers with a disability; when the review group was first established; when it reported to him; and when he intends to publish the report. [8653/04]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

42 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance when the report of the interdepartmental group on the disabled drivers and passengers scheme was completed; the arrangements for consideration being given to this report in his Department; the reason this consideration has not been completed; and if he intends to take action on this report. [8707/04]

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

156 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Finance the position in relation to the interdepartmental group review of the 1994 disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8433/04]

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

167 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the outcome of the cross departmental committee to review and revise the tax concessions for disabled motorists (details supplied). [8724/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

187 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the position in regard to the interdepartmental review of the 1994 disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions; when it is expected to extend the limits of the scheme; the reason for the long delay in bringing the matter to a conclusion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9147/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 30, 42, 156, 167 and 187 together.

The interdepartmental review group on the disabled drivers' and disabled passengers' (tax concessions) scheme was established in 1998. I received the report of the group in September 2002 and the issues raised in it are currently under consideration. The report is a substantive one and needs to be studied carefully. On completion of this process, I envisage that the report will be made available publicly.

Tax Code.

Joan Burton

Question:

31 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider the establishment of a commission on taxation to inquire into the fairness and equity of the overall tax system and the impact, in particular, of provisions for exemption from tax and residency rules; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8921/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The last commission on taxation was set up in early 1980. Its terms of reference included the recommendation of such changes as appear desirable and practicable to achieve an equitable incidence of taxation, due attention being paid to the need to encourage development of the national economy and to maintain an adequate revenue yield. The background to the setting up of this commission was the discontentment of the PAYE sector with the system which led to the PAYE tax marches of that time. The 1980 commission on taxation issued five reports between 1982 and 1985. Its key recommendation was a low single rate of direct tax on a wider tax base.

I see no case to set up a new commission. Since 1979-80, the top rate of income tax has gone down from 60% to 42%, the 45% and 50% rates have been abolished and the standard rate, which at one stage was as high as 35%, has come down to 20%, and is now the bottom rate. With regard to PAYE concerns expressed at the time vis-à-vis the self-employed, a PAYE allowance — now a credit — was introduced in the 1980 budget. The system of income tax allowances has been replaced by a much fairer system of tax credits. Standard rating and the move to tax credits has equalised the value of personal allowance for all tax payers regardless of their level of income, thereby increasing the equity of the system.

Since 1993-94, while the total number of those in the income tax record has increased significantly by almost 664,000, or almost 54%, from 1,230,000 to 1,893,800, the number who pay no income tax at all has more than doubled over the past ten years from almost 325,400 to almost 668,700. Over the past 7 budgets, 81,300 aged income earners have been taken out of the tax net. Tax exemption limits for persons aged 65 and over have more than doubled since 1997. On international comparisons relating to the average production worker, Ireland has the lowest tax wedge in the EU and one of the lowest in the OECD.

As regards combating tax avoidance and widening the tax base, I have introduced a series of measures over the past six years, beginning with the imposition in my first budget of a £25,000 annual cap, now €31,750, on the amount of capital allowances on buildings that an individual passive investor can set against non-rental income. On combating tax evasion, I have given the Revenue Commissioners increased powers which they have used to good effect in pursuing tax defaulters.

For all these reasons, there is no question but that the present income tax system is much fairer than it was ten years ago, not to speak of the system that applied in 1979-80.

There are various fora now at which the tax system can be discussed, including the National Economic and Social Forum and the partnership process and these have played a key role in ensuring our economic success in recent years.

The Deputy has made particular reference to the provisions for tax exemption. Deputies may be interested to note that one of the few exemptions which the commission on taxation proposed in 1984 to retain was the exemption from tax on income from stallion nominations. The Deputy also referred in particular to the present rules on residence for tax purposes. I remind the Deputy that these rules were agreed by the then Fianna Fáil and Labour Government following detailed consideration in the context of the 1994 Finance Bill.

The previous residency rules were a mixture of statutory provisions, old case law and administrative practice, which Deputies I am sure would accept was an unsatisfactory situation. In his 1994 budget speech the Minister for Finance had earlier pointed out that the rules were quite complex and that there was a case for clarifying and simplifying them to ensure the legislation provided certainty. This aim was achieved by the provisions in the 1994 Finance Act. The key residency rule is residence in the State for at least 183 days in a tax year, which is also a key rule in several other EU countries. I see no reason to change them, let alone set up a commission on taxation to examine them.

International Monetary Fund.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

32 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance the discussions he has had with other EU Ministers on a replacement for Mr. Horst Kohler as director of the International Monetary Fund; his views on the qualities required by a replacement; if he has views regarding the person this should be; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8925/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Mr. Horst Kohler has stepped down as Managing Director of the IMF. The decision on appointment of the managing director of the IMF is a matter for the executive directors of the IMF in Washington in accordance with the articles of association of the Fund. In the event of a number of candidates emerging, a vote may be needed.

As of this time I do not believe any nomination has been made but various names of possible candidates have surfaced in the media. The matter was discussed briefly during the Minister's lunch as the recent ECOFIN meeting on the 9 March but no decision was reached.

European Council Meetings.

Mary Upton

Question:

33 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on the outcome of the ECOFIN council held in Brussels on 9 March 2004. [8923/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

On 9 March, I chaired a meeting of the ECOFIN Council in Brussels. The Council adopted the key issues paper, which sets out in a clear fashion the priorities that ECOFIN would like to see tackled by the European Council later this week. The Council also adopted conclusions on national contributions to the European Growth Initiative. The stability programmes of Belgium, Germany, Spain and Portugal were examined and opinions for each of the four member states were approved.

The ECOFIN Council heard reports on the state of play in the negotiation of saving tax agreements with UK and Dutch dependent territories and in the Commission's negotiations with European third countries. In this context, the Council also indicated that it was favourably disposed to a Commission recommendation proposing a framework for the negotiation of a monetary agreement with Andorra. On the issue of reduced VAT rates, a brief exchange of views was held at the request of the French delegation.

With regard to the European Community budget, ECOFIN recommended that discharge be given to the Commission in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Communities for 2002. The Council also agreed on the priorities that it would like to see reflected in the 2005 Community budget. There was a brief discussion on the budgetary classification of funded pension schemes.

The discussion over lunch covered the upcoming vacancies on the European Central Bank's executive board and at the International Monetary Fund, the establishment of a European centre for international economics and the need to have informal exchanges of views about some of the longer-term economic and strategic challenges facing the Union in the years ahead.

Prior to the Council meeting, I also chaired a breakfast meeting where Ministers discussed the impact of regulation on economic performance and the possibilities of reducing the administrative burden on enterprises.

Decentralisation Programme.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

34 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Finance if, in regard to his decentralisation proposals, a survey has been carried out generally to establish the number of public servants willing to transfer to new locations, or if such a survey is planned; if the move will be voluntary and no public servant will suffer in regard to career options or promotional opportunities if they do not wish to move to a new location; if his attention has been drawn to the serious concern that has been expressed by various trade unions representing virtually all grades in the public service at the implication of the proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8931/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I have not undertaken a survey of civil servants or public servants to ascertain the numbers who wish to transfer to each of the locations included in the decentralisation programme. Conducting such a survey in advance of clearer timelines for the sequencing of all the various moves would be of limited value. Following the finalisation of the implementation plan by the decentralisation implementation committee, a structured application system should be established to allow staff to apply for each of the locations announced. The nature of this system is currently the subject of discussion between public service management and unions.

The decentralisation programme will operate on a voluntary basis. Civil and public servants who do not wish to transfer to a decentralised location will be assigned to alternative public service posts in Dublin. The exact procedures which will apply will be dealt with as part of the implementation process and is being discussed with the public service unions.

Decentralisation will change the way in which the public service operates in the future. In the case of promotion prospects, there will continue to be broadly speaking the same opportunities across the civil and public service. The new programme will create a wider range of work and career opportunities for individuals working outside Dublin than currently. Public servants who aspire to senior management positions will no longer have to migrate to the capital, although many may well continue to do so. Similarly, individuals serving in Dublin will be able to pursue their careers within Dublin but many may choose to avail of promotion opportunities in decentralised offices.

From the outset the Government has been anxious to consult the unions on the issues of concern to them. Regular meetings are taking place between management and unions on all aspects of the programme.

Stability and Growth Pact.

Phil Hogan

Question:

35 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Finance the grounds on which the Commission has initiated a court action against the Council of Ministers in respect of enforcement of the rules of the stability pact. [8697/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The Deputy appears to be referring to the European Commission action concerning the ECOFIN Council conclusions of 25 November 2003 on the implementation of the excessive deficit provisions of the treaty.

The decision of the European Commission to initiate a court action against the Council in this case is entirely a matter for the Commission itself. In this regard, I would specifically point the Deputy to the Commission press release of 13 January 2004 which outlined the grounds for its decision, available at www.europa.eu.int/comm/economyfinance/news/pressreleasesen.htm.

As regards the ECOFIN Council meeting of 25 November last, the Commission and the Council differed in their interpretation of the treaty provisions, but not on the substance of the issues in question.

Decentralisation Programme.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

36 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the steps that were taken in the decentralisation programme since it was first announced in 1999; the consultations that took place with staff associations and otherwise between 1999 and the detailed announcement in 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8919/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I announced in my budget speech in December 1999 that the Government intended to proceed with a new, more radical programme of decentralisation. Since that announcement, my Department received submissions, representations and inquiries on behalf of more than 130 centres throughout the country seeking to be included in the new programme. There was extensive consultation with interested parties including meetings at official level between the Department of Finance and other Departments and with each of the civil service staff unions; between myself and the staff unions generally to hear the latter's views and concerns; the Strategic Management Initiative Implementation Group of Secretaries General provided advice, at the request of the Government, on how implementation of the new programme could enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the public service; heads of relevant Departments provided views, at the request of the Government, on the experience of their respective Departments with the previous programme of decentralisation; and a major public service union provided advice, in response to an invitation from me, on the development of criteria for the programme.

In coming to its decision the Government took account of a wide range of factors in selecting suitable locations and departments and agencies for the new programme. I refer the Deputy to page B.25 of the summary of 2004 budget measures which describes the main factors taken into account.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

37 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance if a report on leases of public service units proposed for removal from Dublin was considered as part of the decision on decentralisation. [8686/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

Currently, the State rents some 200,000 square metres of office space in the Dublin area at a cost in the region of €70 million per annum. In addition, the State uses some 230,000 square metres of state owned office accommodation in Dublin.

Under the decentralisation programme in excess of 200,000 square metres of office accommodation will be required in the regions for staff moving out of Dublin. A broadly equivalent amount of space will, as a consequence, be no longer required in the Dublin area.

The issues surrounding the disposal of surplus Dublin space, both owned and leased, are currently being addressed. In this context, the following considerations will be taken into account: the specific circumstances associated with each building including location, quality and design, tenure, office area and whether its leasehold or freehold; the relocation of Departments-offices within the Dublin portfolio with a view to the optimum consolidation of Dublin office space and the timing of property disposals; the market value of a building can be greatly affected by prevailing market conditions including a significant influx of properties to the market.

EU Presidency.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

38 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance if he has received the results of the independent investigation into concerns expressed about the procurement of certain goods and services by the OPW in connection with the EU Presidency; the main findings of the investigation; if it is intended to publish the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8949/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

The review being carried out by PricewaterhouseCoopers on behalf of the Office of Public Works of the matters to which the Deputy refers is nearing completion and its report will be finalised shortly. The purpose of the examination is to establish, insofar as possible, the facts in this matter.

The report has been commissioned as an internal management document to assist me and the relevant senior officials in my office to ascertain the facts and as such it is not my intention to make it available generally to the public. However, I will make public the main findings of the report.

Question No. 39 answered with QuestionNo. 10.

National Development Finance Agency.

Michael Ring

Question:

40 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance the number of projects examined to date by the National Development Finance Agency; and the outcome in terms of the recommended system of funding of these projects. [8663/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I refer the Deputy to my reply of 17 February 2004. I am advised there have been no further developments requiring any update on the information provided last month.

The National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) was established on 1 January 2003. One of its functions is to advise State authorities on the optimal means of financing the cost of public investment projects in order to achieve value for money. The NDFA's role includes advising on the financing and risk evaluation of Ireland's public private partnership procurement projects and raising or arranging finance for national development plan projects. In this respect it provides a centralised expert service to Departments and certain other State authorities. In addition to its advisory role, the NDFA has the power to raise funding itself or through special purpose companies up to a total of €5 billion to finance infrastructure projects. I understand that this facility has not been invoked so far.

I am advised that the agency has completed or substantially completed its input on six infrastructure projects with a combined value of more than €700 million and has organised EIB and other private lending facilities of some €250 million for these projects.

In my recent budget speech I initiated a major change in the financial treatment of capital spending by introducing five year capital envelopes. These envelopes include a commitment to keep the level of Exchequer funded capital investment at close to 5% of GNP over the period 2004-08. A significant development in these capital envelopes are specific targets for projects financed through public private partnership or by the NDFA. These targets increase from 3% of total spending in 2004 to 15% by 2008 and amount to €3.6 billion in total. The NDFA will have an important role to play in advising Departments and agencies in regard to the optimum financing of these projects to achieve value for money.

Question No. 41 answered with QuestionNo. 24.

Question No. 42 answered with QuestionNo. 30.

Non-Resident Accounts.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

43 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance the number of High Court orders sought to date by the Revenue Commissioners under the Finance Act 1999 to require financial institutions to supply names, addresses and other relevant information regarding holders of bogus accounts at the latest date for which figures are available; the number of cases in which orders have been granted; the general progress made to date in identifying the holders of such accounts who did not avail of the recent voluntary disclosure scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8950/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Authorised Revenue officers are empowered to make an application to a judge of the High Court seeking an order requiring financial institutions to supply names, addresses and other relevant information concerning account holders who may have held bogus non-resident deposit accounts. Such applications are made under Section 908 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, as amended by the Finance Act 1999.

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that eighteen applications for orders under Section 908 have been made and have been granted. When one includes institutions which have been taken over or amalgamated with other institutions, these orders seek information in respect of accounts in 26 financial institutions. No further applications for such orders are pending in regard to the bogus non-resident account enquiries.

A large volume of information has been reported to Revenue under the High Court orders. Inquiry work in the examination of the first batch of taxpayers commenced on 11 October 2002. Further general issues of inquiry letters were made in January, May, July, September, October 2003 and January 2004. These general inquiry letter issues relate to 91,000 non-resident accounts that had Irish addresses connected to them. A total of 177,000 inquiry letters have been issued to taxpayers in respect of these non-resident accounts. The final general inquiry letter issue took place in January 2004.

While it is clear Revenue is facing a long programme of investigations over several years, the Revenue Commissioners have informed me that they are satisfied significant progress has been made in this the final phase of the investigations. Since 15 November 2001, payments of €275 million have made to Revenue by taxpayers who held bogus non-resident accounts.

Company Closures.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

44 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Finance the investigations being pursued by his Department in relation to the collapse of a company (details supplied). [8979/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I understand a Garda investigation is ongoing in relation to the company to which the Deputy refers. As the Deputy will appreciate, I am unable to give any details as to the progress of that investigation.

As regards the policy-legislative issues arising from the collapse of the firm, it is clear that careful and detailed examination of all aspects will be required before any such action is taken. In that regard, I have decided to set up three working groups to examine the issues arising from the case. These groups will investigate the relevant areas of legislation, including company and trust law, funding for compensation and financial regulation. The groups will comprise officials from my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment as well as representatives from the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority and the Investor Compensation Company Limited. I also intend to invite representatives from relevant financial service industry bodies.

The terms of reference for these groups are being finalised and I expect they will begin their work in the coming weeks. While no date has yet been agreed for completion of their examination of these issues, I envisage that the working groups will report back to me with their recommendations within a matter of months.

Tax Yield.

David Stanton

Question:

45 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Finance the amount collected by way of the increased taxation on alcopops in 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8985/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that an estimated €12.2 million was collected in 2003 as a result of the increased taxation on alcopops. This is made up of additional excise duty of €10.2 million, together with additional VAT estimated at €2 million. The figure for additional VAT collected is estimated as VAT returns are not required to be completed in a manner that identifies the yield from particular goods and services.

The 2003 budget increase almost doubled the excise duty content on a 275 ml. bottle of alcopop, that is, lower strength spirit-based drink with less than a 5.5% alcohol content, from 30 cent to more than 59 cent. The increase was equal to 35 cent when VAT was included. The total volume of alcopops on which excise duty was paid in 2003 fell by 11.5%, compared to the corresponding period in 2002.

Question No. 46 answered with QuestionNo. 15.

European Central Bank.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

47 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance when he expects a decision will be made on the new appointment to the board of the European Central Bank to replace the Spanish member whose term expires on 31 May 2004; his assessment of the prospects of the Irish nominee securing the appointment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8924/04]

Dan Boyle

Question:

56 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding Ireland achieving a position on the executive board of the European Central Bank. [8972/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 56 together.

The vacancy on the six member executive board of the European Central Bank to which the Deputies refer arises from the expiry of the non-renewable term of office of Mr. Eugenio Domingo Solans on 31 May next. The decision regarding the appointment is made by common accord of the Governments of the member states who have adopted the euro at the level of Heads of State or Government. It is based on a recommendation from the ECOFIN Council after it has consulted the European Parliament and the governing council of the ECB.

Three candidates have been nominated to fill this vacancy when it arises. Ireland's nominee is very well-qualified for the position. The eurogroup Ministers, at their meeting on 8 March last, decided that we will decide from among the three candidates on our recommendation to the Heads of State and Government by the time of the European Council at the end of this month. This would allow a detailed consideration by Ministers of the suitability of the candidates proposed. As part of our Presidency, I have convened an informal meeting of Ministers of the eurozone member states on 25 March 2004 in Brussels to consider the matter further.

Carbon Tax.

Damien English

Question:

48 Mr. English asked the Minister for Finance his latest estimate of the impact of a carbon tax on carbon emissions. [8692/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The most recent estimate of the effect of various tax rates in terms of revenue raised and the expected reduction in carbon emissions is shown in the following table.

Effects of Tax Rates (2010 with exemptions for emissions trading *)
Tax Rate	Revenue Raised (€)	CO2 reduction (Mt)
€	€ million
7.50	200	0.75
10	265	1.01
15	390	1.51
20	510	2.02
25	625	2.52

*To facilitate comparison with figures supplied previously, it might be noted that not providing an exemption for those covered by emissions trading would add from approximately €100 million to €250 million, depending on the tax rate, to the revenue figures for 2010, which assume a reduction in energy use by that date. The revenue streams for each tax rate would be higher in earlier years.

Tax Code.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

49 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Finance when he intends to implement the commitment given in An Agreed Programme for Government to remove all those on the national minimum wage from the tax net; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8928/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The position is that the statutory minimum wage is an average hourly rate of gross pay for an employee as defined under the National Minimum Wage Act 2000. The wage currently stands at €7 per hour having been increased on 1 February 2004 from the previous amount of €6.35 per hour. The annualised equivalent of the present minimum wage is €14,196. The provisions in budget 2004 and the Finance Bill 2004 ensure that for a single person in the PAYE sector, he or she will not pay tax on any income of €246 per week or under, equivalent to €12,800 per year.

An Agreed Programme for Government, states that, "over the next five years our priorities .... will be .... to achieve a position where all those on the minimum wage are removed from the tax net". The five year period mentioned commenced two years ago when the Government was elected to office. It should also be noted that the commitment to exempt the minimum wage from tax is given in the context of a broader economic and budgetary strategy which provides, among other things, that the public finances will be kept in a healthy condition and that personal and business taxes will be kept down to strengthen and maintain the competitive position of the Irish economy.

The Deputy will also be aware of the commitment contained in Sustaining Progress which states that, "to the extent that there is any scope for personal tax reductions, progress will continue to be made over the three budgets contained within the lifetime of this Agreement towards removing those on the minimum wage from the tax net". Progress on this taxation commitment is subject to the need to pursue responsible fiscal policies and to maintain the public finances in a healthy condition.

Accordingly, exemption from tax of those on the minimum wage will be a matter for consideration in the context of the annual budgets over the next few years, consistent with the Government's overall economic and budgetary strategy and its commitments as outlined.

Special Savings Incentive Scheme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

159 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the number and value of awards withheld under benchmarking; and the recommendations of the performance verification group in each case. [8459/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 54 and 159 together.

The estimated cost of the 1 January 2004 increases is as follows: Sustaining Progress — €538 million; benchmarking — €310 million. As regards the awards withheld under benchmarking, my reply will deal only in respect of the Civil Service sector which is my area of responsibility in this matter. The position in other sectors of the public service is a matter for the Ministers responsible for those sectors.

In the Civil Service, save the one exception, no increases were withheld. In the Civil Service a separate performance verification group was set up for the justice and equality sector. Those prison officer grades which are represented by the Prison Officers Association are the only Civil Service grades for which the increases recommended by the public service benchmarking body and the general round increases under Sustaining Progress have not been approved.

The Deputy will be aware that there are industrial relations difficulties in the Prison Service arising from the proposals to introduce an annualised hours system and to eliminate overtime working. The justice and equality performance verification group has deferred making a decision on the prison officer grades pending ongoing developments in this area.

Tax Code.

Michael Ring

Question:

55 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance his views on the desirability of capping the aggregate value of special tax reliefs which can be claimed by an individual. [8660/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

There is no cap on the aggregate value of special tax reliefs which can be claimed by an individual. However, as the Deputy may be aware, in budget 1998 I announced, as and from 3 December 1997, that an annual a cap of €31,750 would apply on the amount of capital allowances that an individual passive investor could claim against non-rental income in relation to capital expenditure incurred on certain industrial buildings. Any unrelieved capital allowances can be carried forward for offset against the individual's rental income. Industrial buildings such as factories, docks, hotels, etc. are affected by this provision as well as buildings under the area based schemes such the urban, rural and town renewal schemes, and a range of other schemes such as multi-storey car parks, private hospitals etc.

There is also a cap of €31,750 on the annual amount that can be claimed by individual investors under the business expansion scheme as well as a cap of €31,750 on the maximum annual amount that can be invested in a qualifying film under the scheme of relief for investment in films. In the case of the latter scheme, this is further restricted as only 80% of total investment is eligible for relief under the scheme.

In my response to the Dáil debate on Second Stage of the 2004 Finance Bill, I referred to the fact that the special reliefs provide undoubted economic and social benefits. On the other hand, they narrow the tax base, have a cost, and inevitably are used by high earners to reduce their tax bill. A judgment must be made as to whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Imposing an overall cap on the aggregate value of special tax reliefs, other than the caps already applying to specific reliefs, which can be claimed by an individual could undermine the effectiveness of many incentive schemes in providing the economic and social benefits referred to. However, as I have stated previously, I will keep the various tax reliefs under review in the context of annual budgets and Finance Bills.

Question No. 56 answered with QuestionNo. 47.

Tribunals of Inquiry.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

57 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Finance the role he played in approving the most recent increases in fees to lawyers and State counsel participating in ongoing tribunals of inquiry. [8976/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Fees payable to legal personnel acting on behalf of the State in tribunals of inquiry are subject to my sanction after obtaining the advice of the Attorney General and the views of the sponsoring Department of the respective tribunal. There have been no increases in per diem rates for counsel in ongoing tribunals of inquiry since July 2002. The increase in 2002 was the only increase since the establishment of the Flood and Moriarty tribunals.

Ethics in Public Office Act.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

58 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance if he has concluded his consideration of correspondence received from the Standards in Public Office Commission drawing his attention to limitations in the Ethics in Public Office Act 1995, arising from consideration of a case (details supplied); if he has decided on the steps to be taken to address the issues raised by the commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8953/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

As I have informed the House previously, I received correspondence from the Standards in Public Office Commission on 2 December 2003 concerning a possible amendment to section 21 of the Standards in Public Office Act 2001. Advice from the Office of the Attorney General on this matter has been received and is currently being examined by my officials. My Department is also considering, in consultation with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, a separate request from the commission that a possible amendment to the Petty Sessions (Ireland) Act 1851 be considered. That amendment would increase the timescale within which the commission would be allowed to refer to the Director of Public Prosecutions any possible offence, which may come to its attention under section 6 of the Statutory Declarations Act 1938.

Tax Code.

John Bruton

Question:

59 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the failure to apply indexation in the capital gains code will result in taxes on paper gains. [8690/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

After indexation relief was introduced in 1978 there was high inflation in the 1980s and high capital gains tax rates. At the time these high rates were a major deterrent for people considering disposals of assets. Now that the tax rate has been lowered to 20% and inflation is also consistently low, there is no reason to retain indexation relief in the capital gains tax system. Internationally, most countries do not apply indexation relief to the taxation of capital gains.

I have consistently stated that I believe in low direct taxation rates but that a broadened tax base is the price which must be paid to achieve this. As regards capital gains tax, the rate is now 20% and streamlining measures, including the abolition of indexation relief, have broadened the base. In the six years since I lowered the rate to 20%, there has been an upsurge in activity and revenue collected under the capital gains tax code. This proves my point that lower taxation means higher yield.

Money Laundering.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

60 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the total number of suspicious financial transactions that might involve money laundering reported to the Revenue Commissioners during 2003; if he has satisfied himself that adequate procedures are in place to prevent money laundering; the work being undertaken by the money laundering steering committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8927/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they have received 2,688 suspicious transaction reports, which may relate to money laundering, between 1 May 2003, the date on which the reporting obligation under section 57 of the Criminal Justice Act 1994 was extended to the Revenue Commissioners, and 31 December 2003. A dedicated office, the suspicious transactions reports office, has been set up to ensure these reports are comprehensively followed through by Revenue. The commissioners regard these reports as a valuable intelligence resource which will assist them in the identification of cases of tax evasion. They will be used in connection with their investigation programmes carried out by their regional divisions and by their investigations and prosecutions division.

The suspicious transactions reports office and the Garda bureau of fraud investigation meet regularly to review the reports received and to ensure their respective actions are co-ordinated and do not overlap. Money laundering investigations are conducted by the Garda, and Revenue deals with cases of suspected tax evasion. Irish legislation on money laundering is set out in the Criminal Justice Act, 1994, as amended. Primary responsibility for legislation in the area of money laundering rests with the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Under regulations made by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in 2003, and in compliance with the second EU money laundering directive of 2001, the list of bodies designated under the Criminal Justice Act 1994 was extended to include accountants, auctioneers, auditors, estate agents, tax advisers, solicitors, investment business firms, dealers in high value goods where payment is made in cash for a sum of €15,000 or more, casinos, administration companies providing services to collective investment schemes, and providers of money remittance services.

Under the legislation, designated bodies are required to identify their customers, report suspicious transaction to the Garda Síochána and the Revenue Commissioners, keep records and ensure that they have in place adequate anti-money laundering procedures, including staff training. The Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority requires all institutions it supervises to comply with the anti-money laundering legislation and relevant sectoral guidance notes and to have in place the necessary procedures and controls to ensure such compliance.

The adequacy of such systems is reviewed by IFSRA in the course of its ongoing supervision of institutions and requirements for improvement advised to institutions as necessary. Furthermore, in accordance with its legal obligation under section 57(2) of the Criminal Justice Act 1994, IFSRA is obliged to make reports to the Garda and Revenue where, in the course of its supervision, it suspects that an institution has breached section 31 or 32 of the Criminal Justice Act 1994.

As part of its ongoing supervision, IFSRA ensures that institutions are informed of international developments in the area of prevention of money laundering, in particular in relation to recommendations and reports issued by the international financial action task force on money laundering.

The money laundering steering committee, which was set up in 1994 under the chairmanship of the Department of Finance, is a representative body of Government Departments, enforcement agencies, financial institutions and other designated bodies. Its main function is to facilitate consistent application of the money laundering provisions of the Criminal Justice Act 1994, across the range of bodies affected by the legislation. Ireland's law and procedures on money laundering were the subject of a favourable review by the financial action task force in 1998, under its procedure for the mutual evaluation of its members. The next mutual evaluation of Ireland is due in 2005.

Tax Code.

Richard Bruton

Question:

61 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the different tax treatment of separated, cohabiting and married parents; and the rationale for this structure. [8671/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am aware that the tax treatment differs as between separated, cohabiting and married parents. The detail of this treatment was included in my reply to a question from the Deputy last month. The difference in treatment reflects the differing nature of the relationships involved, the legal arrangements between the relevant parties as regards maintenance and support, and the provisions of the general law as it relates to the status of familial structures.

Revenue Investigations.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

62 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons, companies and trusts being investigated by the Revenue Commissioners arising from the Ansbacher accounts at the latest date for which figures are available; the number of cases in which settlements have been agreed and the amount paid to date; the number of cases still outstanding; if additional action has been taken by the Revenue Commissioners arising from the report of the Ansbacher inspectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8951/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that their Ansbacher review has inquired into 289 cases to date and 63 of these cases have concluded settlements with Revenue. The 289 cases, taking account of spouses and connected companies, consist of 300 names.

A total of 211 cases have been under active investigation. The remaining cases consist of 62 non-resident persons, including 17 former Irish residents, 12 individuals who claimed the 1993 amnesty provisions and four cases with insufficient identity information.

The investigation includes examining the tax position of disclosed entities and accumulating and assembling information on other connected entities. The number of connected entities in regard to cases under investigation is now nearly 700.

Revenue is making extensive use of its legislative powers to seek books, records, documents and information in the cases being investigated. Where appropriate, prosecutions will be considered but these will depend on the level of evidence available.

Revenue has made five successful applications to the High Court for the production by financial institutions and third parties of books, records and other documentation, which are relevant to liabilities of Ansbacher account holders. Some 150,000 documents have been received under the terms of the High Court orders. Advanced investigative computer software is used in controlling and managing the documentation.

To date a total of €40.56 million has been received, mostly by way of payments on account, in respect of 82 cases. This is made up of:

		€ million
Cases involving Ansbacher or Ansbacher type arrangements	72 Cases	32.84
Other cases involving offshore funds or deposits	10 Cases	7.72
Total	82 Cases	40.56

The 63 cases which have concluded settlements with Revenue consist of 31 cases which were settled on payments of €16.33 million, included in the amount listed, 25 non-resident cases which are covered by the provisions of double taxation agreements, five had no additional liability and two were covered by the 1993 amnesty provisions.

Revenue made an application under section 11 of the Companies Act, 1990, for a copy of the High Court inspectors' report which was made available to Revenue on 6 July 2002. The information in this report has been carefully considered as regards the tax liabilities of the persons concerned. In addition, Revenue has made a further application to the High Court for access to the supporting papers to the High Court inspectors' report. The matter was heard by the High Court on 26, 27 and 28 November 2002 and judgment is reserved. Revenue has informed me that the investigations are time-consuming and complex and are likely to continue for some time to come.

Question No. 63 answered with QuestionNo. 9.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

64 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance the progress made by the Revenue Commissioners into allegations that tax improprieties may surround trust operations in a bank (details supplied) in Jersey; if the Revenue Commissioners have reached a determination regarding whether these trusts facilitated tax evasion as distinct from tax avoidance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8938/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that this investigation is still ongoing and that substantial progress has been made. Arising from a voluntary disclosure programme, 254 individuals came forward and made voluntary disclosures. To date in excess of €105 million has been received by the commissioners. Revenue now intends to pursue vigorously those individuals who failed to come forward, using all powers available to it. Criminal prosecution will be considered in these cases subject to obtaining the relevant evidence. It is clear from some of the disclosures and the amount collected to date that some trusts were used to evade tax.

Departmental Investigations.

Seán Ryan

Question:

65 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Finance if the investigation being carried out on behalf of his Department into the circumstances in which contracts worth more than €800,000 were awarded by the Office of Pubic Works to a company whose managing director was a business associate of an OPW official has been concluded; the main findings of the investigation; if it is intended to publish the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8948/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

The review being carried out by PricewaterhouseCoopers on behalf of the Office of Public Works of the matter to which the Deputy refers is nearing completion and its report will be finalised shortly. The purpose of the examination is to establish, in so far as possible, the facts in regard to this matter. The figure of €800,000 mentioned by the Deputy refers to the total value of payments to the company in question over a nine year period from 1995 to date.

The report has been commissioned as an internal management document to assist me and the relevant senior officials in my office to ascertain the facts. As it is likely to contain information on the personal and private affairs of certain individuals, it is not my intention to make it available generally to the public. However, I will make public the main findings of the report.

International Financial Policy.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

66 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Finance the details of the policy direction the Government wishes to see followed by the soon to be appointed head of the International Monetary Fund. [8975/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Policy for the IMF is set in accordance with the articles of association at the regular meetings of the governors of the fund and on an ongoing basis by the executive directors of the IMF. The Government would expect the IMF to operate in accordance with the articles of agreement to ensure the stability of the international financial system. The post of managing director of the IMF is of considerable significance. The basic function of the IMF is not likely to be greatly changed by any person holding the post.

Decentralisation Programme.

Liz McManus

Question:

67 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Finance if he has received the first report of the group chaired by Mr. Phil Flynn to oversee the decentralisation programme; if it is intended to publish his report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8932/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The Decentralisation Implementation Committee, chaired by Mr. Phil Flynn, was charged with the development of an implementation plan for the new decentralisation programme which is to be submitted to the Minister for Finance by the end of March 2004. I have not yet received the committee's report.

The chair of the committee, Mr. Phil Flynn, reports directly to the Decentralisation Cabinet Sub-Committee and a first report to the Cabinet sub-committee has been received. There are no plans to publish this report at present.

Departmental Appeals.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

68 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the progress made with regard to efforts to clear the backlog of appeals in the Office of the Information Commissioner; the number of appeals outstanding at the latest date for which figures are available and the average time being taken to hear an appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8946/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

This is the latest available information which has been supplied to my Department by the Office of the Information Commissioner. The number of review applications received by the Information Commissioner, and accepted as valid, increased by 58% between 2002 and 2003, from 585 to 924.

During 2003 the Information Commissioner completed reviews in 729 cases, compared with 534 cases in 2002, which is an increase of 37%. Of the 729 completed in 2003: six were received in 1999; 62 were received in 2000; 81 were received in 2001; 143 were received in 2002; and 437 were received in 2003.

At 31 January 2004 the Information Commissioner had 796 valid reviews on hands; the comparable figure for 31 January 2003 was 622, representing an increase in the on hands figure of 28% as between the two years. The 796 cases on hand are broken down as follows in terms of year of receipt: received in 1999 — two; received in 2000 — 19; received in 2001 — 182; received in 2002 — 130; received in 2003 — 451; and received in 2004 — 12. The total figure was 796.

Figures are not currently available as to the average time taken to conclude reviews — appeals. At present, the commissioner is dealing with applications received currently as well as older cases including some applications received in 2000. Any average figure thus derived would need to be treated with caution. However, the commissioner hopes to be able to give fuller details of case completion timescales in her annual report for 2003.

Revenue Investigations.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

69 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons, companies and trusts being investigated by the Revenue Commissioners arising from the Clerical Medical Insurance/NIB Inquiry at the latest date for which figures are available; the number of cases in which settlements have been agreed and the amount paid to date; the number of cases still outstanding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8952/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that arising from the Clerical Medical Insurance/NIB inquiry, 452 cases have been targeted for investigation. To date, 287 cases have been settled on payment of tax, interest and penalties amounting to a total of €44.46 million. A further 111 cases have been finalised with no additional liability arising. The remaining 54 cases are the subject of ongoing investigation, in respect of which €4.58 million has been paid on account.

In the course of 2003, three cases were prosecuted, with fines being imposed in two cases and a suspended sentence imposed in the other. The individuals concerned have also settled their tax affairs and paid the outstanding tax, together with interest and penalties. A further case is currently under investigation with a view to prosecution.

Aggregate results of the ongoing investigations have been published each year since 1998 in the annual reports of the Revenue Commissioners. Individual details of settlements have also been published where the provisions of section 1086 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 applied.

Question No. 70 answered with QuestionNo. 23.

Question No. 71 answered with QuestionNo. 26.

Decentralisation Programme.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

72 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which he hopes to have achieved the targets set in regard to decentralisation by the end of 2004; if disturbance or relocation costs are envisaged; if so, the extent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8440/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I have appointed a decentralisation implementation committee to drive forward the implementation of the programme. The committee, which is chaired by Phil Flynn, will prepare an implementation plan and will report back to Government by the end of March 2004. Subject to approval by the Government, work will then start on advancing the programme in accordance with the proposals in the implementation plan. In tandem with this, consultations with unions representing all the staff involved will continue.

The decentralisation programme is on a voluntary basis and therefore it is envisaged that there will be no disturbance or relocation expenses paid to staff who volunteer to relocate.

Pension Provisions.

Dan Neville

Question:

73 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Finance if he has considered the approach advocated by the ESRI for the deployment of funds set aside for the National Pensions Reserve Fund. [8676/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am aware of various views expressed by individuals and institutions concerning the National Pensions Reserve Fund, NPRF. The NPRF was established in April 2001 with the objective to meet as much as possible of the cost to the Exchequer of social welfare and public service pensions to be paid from the year 2025 until at least 2055. I have no plans to alter the basic levels at which contributions are made to the NPRF.

As explained in answers to other parliamentary questions in regard to the National Pension Reserve Fund, I am committed to the investment mandate of the fund as set out in section 19 of the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000. This provides that, in investing fund moneys, the commission shall seek to optimise total financial return provided the level of risk is acceptable to the commission. Therefore, the commission is required to adopt a standard commercial investment policy and it does not have discretion to choose not to invest in particular sectors or companies for anything other than commercial reasons. Accordingly, there is nothing to prevent the commissioners from investing in projects in Ireland should they be satisfied that such investments are likely to yield a commercial return.

I note that the ESRI has stressed the importance of infrastructural spending. It should be clear the Government is fully committed to the development of the national infrastructure. As I announced in my recent Budget Statement, the Government will implement multi-annual capital investment envelopes over the period 2004 to 2008, providing for investment of about 5% of GNP per annum, which is twice the EU average.

Tax Code.

Willie Penrose

Question:

74 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Finance the progress made in his review of tax incentive schemes, especially in view of the finding of the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General that in 2002 the top 400 earners benefited from tax breaks to the value of €70 million; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8940/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

As I pointed out to Deputy Michael Higgins in my response to the same Dáil question last month, all tax reliefs and incentives were reviewed in the context of the budget and Finance Bill 2004.

On foot of that review, and having considered the many pre-budget submissions made to me, I made a number of announcements regarding various tax reliefs in my 2004 Budget Statement and these and other necessary provisions are now included in the Finance Bill 2004 which was published last month. The provisions include an extension of film relief to end 2008 with an increase in the amount per film that can be raised under the relief to €15 million and significant administrative changes to tackle abuse. There is also an extension of the termination date for various area-based tax incentive schemes to 31 July 2006 in order to relieve pressure on construction resources to meet the December 2004 deadline and allow for an orderly winding down of these schemes. In line with my position on targeted reliefs, the business expansion scheme and the associated seed capital scheme are also being extended to end 2006 and the company limit is being increased to €1 million. However, the extension and changes to both these schemes are subject to a commencement order to allow clarification of potential EU State aid issues raised by the European Commission.

It must be accepted that, of their nature, tax reliefs even where they can be justified for good public policy purposes will reduce the tax bills of those in the higher income bracket.

As the Deputy will be aware, the figures referred to by the Comptroller and Auditor General are extracted from a study carried out by the Revenue Commissioners in 2002 on the Effective Tax Rates for High Earning Individuals based on the tax year 1999-2000. A similar study was undertaken in 1997. I placed copies of both these studies in the Oireachtas Library.

One of the conclusions drawn from the 1997 study was that the use of capital allowances on the expenditure on buildings in tax designated areas and on hotels was one of the main methods of reducing the tax bills of high earners to very low levels. Subsequently, in budget 1998, I capped the amount of annual capital allowances on such buildings that could be set-off against non-rental income and, in the case of hotels throughout most of the country, I abolished in total the capital allowances against non-rental income.

The 2002 study indicates an increase in the effective tax rate of high earners in 1999-2000 compared with earlier years. However, it is clear that some high earners continue to achieve substantial reductions in their tax liability as a result of certain tax reliefs. The study indicates that property based capital allowances continue to be the chief instrument used by high-income earners to reduce their taxable income by substantial amounts. It is also clear that the 1998 changes were not fully in effect by 1999-2000.

I assure the Deputy that all tax incentive schemes will continue to be kept under review, especially in the context of the annual budget and Finance Bill process, seeking at all times to ensure that there is an appropriate balance between the provision of particular incentives for good public policy reasons and the availability of opportunities for higher earners to reduce their tax exposure. In addition, as part of the work on the evaluation of tax incentives, the Revenue Commissioners are taking steps to ensure that in future there will be better information available in the ongoing cost of tax expenditures such as property-based tax incentives and pension reliefs. I have underpinned this by way of a provision in Finance Bill 2004, which will require additional information to be provided in regard to property-based capital allowances by taxpayers in their annual tax returns for the tax year 2004 and by employers on pension reliefs starting in relation to the tax year 2005.

Pension Provisions.

The informal meeting of ECOFIN Council in April, which I will chair, will also have the opportunity to consider the Commission communication. The European Parliament will also play an important role in these discussions.

Question No. 78 answered with QuestionNo. 25.

Tax Collection.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

79 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance the progress made with regard to the negotiations between the Revenue Commissioners and the authorities in the Cayman Islands with a view to the conclusion of a tax information exchange agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8937/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

In response to earlier Dáil questions on this matter, I stated that a first round of negotiations between the authorities in the Cayman Islands and the Revenue Commissioners for a tax information exchange agreement was held in Dublin on 24 November 2003. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that a further round of negotiations is planned for next month. As I stated in my earlier responses, it is not possible at this stage of the negotiations to comment on their likely outcome.

Tax Code.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

80 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Finance the procedures that are in place to ensure that Irish citizens claiming residency abroad for tax purposes comply with the requirement to be out of Ireland for a minimum of 183 days; if he has satisfied himself that existing procedures are adequate; if he has plans to review the procedures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8934/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that they have the entitlement to make all relevant enquiries in relation to any tax return or statement made to them and, where appropriate, to carry out an audit to verify the accuracy of the return or statement. This applies to returns or statements made by persons claiming to be non-resident as it does for all other taxpayers.

Audits and other interventions by the Revenue Commissioners are made on the basis of indications of risk. Claims to non-residence status are included in risk profiling and Revenue has indicated it is committed to auditing and validating a number of such claims.

I am informed by the commissioners that the procedures to be adopted in relation to validating a claim to non-residence status will depend on the circumstances in each case. For example, in some instances it may involve the cross-checking of records available to customs. The administration of these audit and validation procedures is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners and I am informed by them that these procedures are kept under review.

Tax Collection.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

81 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Finance the nature of the arrangement offered by the large cases division of the Revenue Commissioners offering structured communications with wealthy persons and firms that would reduce the number of audits; and if he will make a statement on the matter.[8929/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that their large cases division has responsibility for ensuring that there is the highest possible level of tax and duty compliance by 320 of the largest business enterprises — those with annual turnover in excess of €125 million — and 250 of the wealthiest individual taxpayers — those with estimated net worth in excess of €50 million. The division also deals with the financial services sector in its entirety.

As well as monitoring compliance by these cases through audit and debt management programmes, the division is engaging directly with the companies and individuals concerned to encourage their commitment to observe an agreed framework of good tax compliance standards, supported by open lines of communication with Revenue. These audit and communication strategies allow Revenue to develop a more informed view of the risks posed by particular large businesses and wealthy individuals and to apply audit resources as appropriate to match those perceived risks.

Fiscal Policy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

82 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if he can rely on the financial projections of various Departments as delivered at estimate and budget time in view of the fact that many such Departments have in the intervening period found resources to which their attention had not been drawn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8439/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

186 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the circumstances whereby previously unforeseen resources have been found in a number of Departments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9144/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 82 and 186 together.

I am satisfied with the financial projections of the various Government Departments and that the increase in resources between budget day and the publication of the 2004 Revised Estimates Volume, REV, reflects the normal process of updating in the light of emerging information. The budget day estimate for gross current and capital spending by Departments and offices was €41.117 billion and the estimate for appropriation-in-aid receipts relating to spending on services — as noted in tables 4 and 5 of the budget book statistics and tables — was €8.170 billion, giving a net total of €32.947 billion.

In the recently published 2004 REV the revised figure for gross spending is €41.239 billion and for estimated appropriations-in-aid is €8.298 billion, giving a net total of €32.941 billion. The increase of €128 million in receipts relates to:

	€
Social Insurance Fund	61.3 million
EU Receipts — on a number of votes	41.4 million
Justice and Garda receipts	10.0 million
Broadcasting — licence fee receipts	9.8 million
Defence — UN Receipts	5.0 million
Petroleum receipts	2.5 million
Environment, Heritage and Local Government	1.5 million
Mining receipts	1.0 million
Enterprise, Trade and Employment	1.0 million
Agriculture — disease levies	5.0 million
Other	300,000
	128.8 million

As noted earlier the updated figures reflect the latest available data, including end-year outturn data which were not available on budget day.

Question No. 83 answered with QuestionNo. 24.

Ministerial Appointments.

Enda Kenny

Question:

84 Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach the names, duties, annual salaries, work locations and dates of appointment of the political advisers, personal assistances and secretaries appointed by the Ministers of State at his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8284/04]

The Taoiseach

The names, duties, annual salaries and dates of appointments of the political advisers, personal assistants and personal secretaries appointed by the Ministers of State atmy Department are set out in the table below. All staff are located in Government Buildings except for the personal secretary to the Minister of State, Deputy Roche, who is based in Wicklow town.

Office of the Government Chief Whip
Name	Job Description	Date of Appointment	Current Annual Salary
			€
Carl Gibney	Special Advisor — co-ordinating Information Society events, liaising with interest groups, monitoring developments in e-government at EU level, and research and speech writing on Information Society issues.	06/06/02	72,128
Averil Power	Personal Assistant — speech writing, research, and political and constituency- related issues.	23/07/02	38,653
Nuala Redmond*	Personal Secretary — constituency related issues and management of Minister’s constituency correspondence.	06/06/02	26,871
Paula Eager	Personal Secretary, replaced Nuala Redmond.	28/07/03	26,931

*Returned to Dept. of Health and Children on 18/03/03

Office of Minister of State Roche
Name	Job Description	Date of Appointment	Current Annual Salary
			€
Ciara Furlong	Personal Secretary — constituency related issues and management of Minister’s constituency correspondence.	06/06/02	34,600
Geraldine Cole	Personal Assistant to MoS Roche at the Department of Foreign Affairs.	02/02/04	40,515(paid by Department of Foreign Affairs)

Olwyn Enright

Question:

85 Ms Enright asked the Taoiseach the number of staff appointed by him, from outside the Civil Service, since the general election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8325/04]

The Taoiseach

The number of new staff appointments to my Department, in my office, the offices of the Ministers of State at my Department and the Government press secretariat, from outside the Civil Service since the general election 2002 are detailed in the table below.

Name	Job Description	Salaries	Expenses Received 2004 to date	Expenses Received in 2003	Expenses Received in 2002
		€	€	€	€
Brian Murphy	Special Advisor to the Taoiseach	77,537	Nil	Nil	Nil
Mandy Johnston	Government Press Secretary	100,369	Nil	1,148	971.25
Carl Gibney	Special Advisor to the Government Chief Whip	72,128	Nil	Nil	Nil
Averil Power	Personal Assistant to the Government Chief Whip	38,653	Nil	1,210	Nil
Paula Eager	Personal Secretary to the Government Chief Whip	26,931	Nil	Nil	Nil
Ciara Furlong	Personal Secretary to Minister of State Roche	34,600	Nil	Nil	Nil

International Trade.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

86 Mr. Durkan asked the Taoiseach the full extent of the growth of Irish exports in the past five years [8206/04]

Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach (Ms Hanafin)

The data requested by the Deputy are presented in the table following. Table 1 shows the total value of exports which increased from €57,321.8 million in 1998 to €82,125.5 million in 2003. Tables 2 and 3 show annual merchandise export data for the years 1998 to 2002 and for the period January to November 2003 broken down by major geographical region and identifying, in particular, the top ten commodity groupings for the period. November 2003 is the latest month for which detailed data are available. Details for December 2003 will be available towards the end of March 2004.

Table 1 — Total Exports
	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002	2003
	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)
Total	57,321,815	66,956,219	83,888,932	92,689,909	93,610,346	82,125,500

Table 2 — Exports by major geographic area
	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002	Jan-Nov 2003
	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)
UK	12,920,617	14,690,171	18,869,835	22,629,829	22,453,776	13,565,387
Other EU	26,067,093	28,768,665	33,416,681	34,946,145	37,443,845	32,447,729
USA and Canada	8,088,768	10,667,226	14,622,342	16,286,893	17,000,413	16,115,544
Rest of the world	10,245,337	12,830,157	16,980,074	18,827,042	16,712,312	13,196,887
Total	57,321,815	66,956,219	83,888,932	92,689,909	93,610,346	75,325,547

Table 3 — Exports by top 10 commodity groupings
	1998	1999	2000	2001	2002	Jan-Nov 2003
	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)
Office machines & automatic data processing machines	12,940,208	15,152,684	19,616,841	21,034,504	17,309,437	13,222,389
Organic chemicals	9,946,284	11,394,108	16,897,510	17,117,882	17,378,629	14,247,985
Medical & pharmaceutical products	4,212,398	4,815,059	5,311,737	8,975,123	15,669,895	12,407,618
Electrical machinery, apparatus & appliances nes & parts	4,212,243	5,135,805	7,915,994	10,164,509	10,564,769	4,711,309
Miscellaneous manufactured articles nes	4,231,432	5,208,985	6,121,857	6,002,669	5,034,547	4,420,245
Telecommunications & sound equipment	2,150,444	3,582,145	3,736,538	3,657,620	2,635,458	1,196,700
Essential oils, perfume materials; toilet & cleansing preps	2,012,419	2,448,692	2,355,173	3,140,932	3,160,548	3,754,563
Chemical materials & products nes	1,414,116	1,862,762	1,940,871	2,295,191	2,223,569	2,201,768
Professional, scientific & controlling apparatus nes	1,394,955	1,387,281	1,703,242	1,881,812	2,061,755	3,004,397
Meat & meat preparations	1,481,651	1,770,558	1,752,217	1,594,127	1,744,252	1,672,990

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

87 Mr. Stanton asked the Taoiseach the amount of money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the amount of money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access the services of his Department. [8636/04]

The Taoiseach

No funds were committed to provide additional facilities for people with disabilities in 2003 as my Department provides adequate facilities, including a ramp at the entrance, wheelchair lifts and disabled toilets. However, in 2004, the Office of Public Works are arranging for the upgrade of the lifts in my Department and adaptations will be made to make them more user friendly for wheelchair users in line with building regulations. Three websites are maintained by the Department of the Taoiseach. These are www.taoiseach.gov.ie, www.bettergov.ie and www.betterregulation.ie. All of these sites are regularly tested to ensure that they are compliant with WAI level 3 accessibility guidelines — these are universal principles for publishing information on the Internet, which include the promotion of a high degree of usability for people with disabilities.

The situation regarding the general suitability of services for people with disabilities is also kept under constant review so that any additional improvements may be made where opportunities are identified. Services for persons with disabilities are, of course, addressed within the social partnership process and the quality customer service dimension of public service modernisation, dealt with by my Department.

Decentralisation Programme.

Pat Breen

Question:

88 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when decentralisation for Trade and Enterprise Ireland staff to Shannon will take place; if he has identified offices for such transfer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8447/04]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

The Minister for Finance, in his budget speech, announced the decision of the Government to decentralise 300 of Enterprise Ireland's Dublin based staff to Shannon. The decision on the timing of the move by Enterprise Ireland staff to Shannon will depend on the conclusion of national, public sector wide, discussions on the implementation of the decentralisation programme, and the availability of suitable accommodation in Shannon.

Through the Office of Public Works, OPW, expressions of interest for the provision of accommodation have been sought, by way of public advertisement in the national newspapers. Some ten responses have been passed to Enterprise Ireland by the OPW. These range from the development of purpose-built accommodation to the availability of a potential site or sites. Enterprise Ireland is considering the options in consultation with OPW. Enterprise Ireland has nominated a senior manager to sit on a group established within the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, to oversee the implementation of the decentralisation decision.

As requested by the Department of Finance, Enterprise Ireland is preparing an information pack on the Shannon area. The pack will include information on a number of topics such as transport systems, business facilities, accommodation, education facilities and sports & leisure facilities in Shannon.

Job Creation.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

89 Mr. O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the job creation needs of Tallaght, Dublin 24, which is the third largest population centre in the country, continues to receive special attention by her Department and State agencies; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that Tallaght has a very young population and huge challenges ahead as far as employment needs are concerned; the action she plans to take; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8295/04]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

With support from IDA Ireland, the agency with statutory responsibility for attracting foreign direct investment, a number of companies in the electronics, internationally traded services and software sectors have established operations in the Tallaght area and are continuing to expand their operations. Recently, Google and Overture, two world renowned high-tech companies, decided to locate in the area. A Japanese pharmaceuticals company has begun construction of a plant in Grangecastle, Clondalkin, which will employ 60 people. A new biotechnology facility, also in Grangecastle, employs 500 people which is expected to increase to 1,300 by 2005.

As regards indigenous industry, Enterprise Ireland, in 2003, approved 16 projects in the greater Tallaght area. Each of these is planning to increase employment in the area over the next few years. Enterprise Ireland is working closely with South Dublin County Council and other agencies in the area. A number of community enterprise centres have been established to provide incubation space for start-up companies. At the micro-enterprise level, the South Dublin County Enterprise Board continues to provide a comprehensive range of supports and training.

The strong infrastructural support already in place will continue to help attract companies to Tallaght and its environs, and the State agencies are committed to promoting the area for industrial development.

Ministerial Appointments.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

90 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of staff appointed by her, from outside the Civil Service, since the general election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8326/04]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

Since the formation of the current Government in June 2002, I have appointed seven staff from outside the Civil Service, six of whom are currently serving. A special adviser appointed on 6 June 2002 died in October 2003.

The breakdown of staff currently serving is as follows: three special advisers, one of whom is assigned to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform; two personal assistants; and one personal secretary. It should be noted that my programme manager was actually appointed by the Taoiseach. The role relates to the implementation of the programme for Government, which involves liaising with departmental officials and programme managers in other Departments.

The special advisers are involved in the provision of advice and assistance to myself and the two Ministers of State. The personal secretary and personal assistants are involved in the performance of general secretarial duties including duties relating to the handling of inquiries made to the offices. The total salaries and expenses for the seven staff employed from 6 June 2002 to date amounts to €750,297.09 and €17,202.68 respectively.

Biotechnological Innovations.

Billy Timmins

Question:

91 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position in relation to a group (details supplied); the identity of the members; and their employment at the time the group sat. [8410/04]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

In March 1999, the Government noted the range of concerns raised by genetic modification and approved the establishment of an interdepartmental group on modern biotechnology to report with a co-ordinated overall position as soon as possible. The membership of the group at that time was as follows: Ronald Long, Assistant Secretary, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment — Chairman; Tom Mooney, Assistant Secretary, Department of Health and Children; Jim Beecher, Assistant Secretary, Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development; Dr. Jim Flanagan, chief inspector, Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development; Geraldine Tallon, Assistant Secretary, Department of the Environment and Local Government; Owen Ryan, Assistant Principal, Department of the Environment and Local Government; Alan Reilly, director operations division, Food Safety Authority of Ireland; Dr. Jim Ryan, director, BioResearch Ireland, Enterprise Ireland; Dr. Noel Gillatt, Forfás; Padraic de Bhaldraithe, inspector, Department of Education and Science; and Peter Buckley, Assistant Principal, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment — secretary.

In December 2000, the Government, in considering the report of the group, approved the continuation of the group on a permanent basis and the extension of its membership to include representatives of Teagasc, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Food Safety Promotion Board, the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands, Enterprise Ireland and Forfás. The group is currently chaired by Mr. Brian Whitney, Assistant Secretary, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The future work programme of the group is currently under consideration.

Work Permits.

Willie Penrose

Question:

92 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the requirements for a person from Canada seeking an employee work permit to work here; the stage at which the application should be sought; and if same should be applied for prior to such a person leaving Canada to come here. [8487/04]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

Only an employer in the State may apply for work permits. However, skilled workers in certain sectors may apply for working visas or work authorizations. Details of these programmes may be found on my Department's web site at www.entemp.ie. Details of the working visas and work authorization programmes are also available from the Department of Foreign Affairs web site at www.irlgov.ie/iveagh.

Insurance Claims.

Martin Ferris

Question:

93 Mr. Ferris asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the former employees of Irish Steel at Cobh were not insured; and her plans to ensure that those with claims against the company for work related injuries receive compensation. [8503/04]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

I understand that at the time of the sale of Irish Steel Limited in 1995, the company had employer liability insurance in place although there was a policy excess or deductible of £2 million per annum. Claims up to this amount each year would have been a matter for the company. I also understand that such arrangements for limited self-insurance would not be unusual for companies of the size and nature of Irish Steel Ltd. It is also the case that the company's insurance brokers confirmed at that time that the insurance cover in place was adequate for the company's then current operations.

Full information on any claims on hands at the time of the sale were disclosed to the purchasers as part of the due diligence process. Furthermore, as part of the sale agreements, the State made a payment of £2,445,000 to Irish Ispat Ltd. in respect of certain potential liabilities for dust and deafness claims as well as for outstanding taxes. As part of these arrangements, it was agreed that any liabilities in respect of these items would be the sole and exclusive responsibility of the company and the purchaser. The purchaser also undertook to utilise the payment for these items.

I have no information on the insurance arrangements that Irish Ispat Ltd maintained subsequent to the sale. Given that Irish Ispat Ltd is in liquidation, it would appear that any persons with claims against the company should pursue the matter with the liquidator.

FÁS Training Programmes.

David Stanton

Question:

94 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons with disabilities who are in FÁS mainstream training programmes in relation to the policy of mainstreaming; the number of persons with disabilities who are in programmes with specialist training providers; the cost of each group in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8611/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Fahey)

On 27 February 2004 there were 453 participants in FÁS mainline training programmes with an annualised budget of €5.787 million. This annualised budget cost is a total direct cost and does not include FÁS staff or overheads. In respect of specialist training providers, the number of participants at 27 February 2004 was 1,752, with a total budget for 2004 of €41.833 million. This budget is a total cost for vocational training which includes trainer fees, trainee allowances, trainee travel and child care etc.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

95 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the money allocated by her Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access the services of her Department. [8637/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Fahey)

The FÁS actual expenditure in 2003 and the budget for 2004 for programmes specifically related to persons with disability are as follows:

	Actual 2003	Budget 2004
	€m	€m
Specialist Training Providers	37.792	41.833
Pilot Employment Programme	1.95	2.200
Employment Support Scheme	2.904	3.000
Supported Employment Programme	6.122	7.000
Disability Support/Awareness	1.081	2.000
Total	51.850	56.033

The amounts stated above are the direct costs attributed to the programmes and do not include FÁS staff or overhead costs.

My Department endeavours to deliver all of its services in an inclusive manner and as such the cost of services to persons with disabilities is included in the cost of delivering the service to all customers. In some instances specific expenditures occur. In 2003, approximately €47,000 was spent on evacuation chairs for persons with disabilities. In addition, my Department is currently redesigning the website to make it fully inclusive with a minimum of level II web accessibility initiative compliance at a cost of approximately €45,000.

Job Losses.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

There are currently no plans to introduce new, nor amend existing national minimum wage legislation. The Minimum Wage Act applies to employees who work under a contract of employment in Ireland. Irish registered shipowners may apply for work permits for non-nationals working in Ireland. Such workers are covered by Irish employment rights legislation by virtue of section 20 of the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001 which provides that the full range of Irish employee protection legislation applies to foreign workers posted to work in, or otherwise working in this country.

Community Employment Schemes.

Michael Ring

Question:

100 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in relation to the proposed rural social scheme, persons currently participating in a community employment scheme who qualify for the rural social scheme will be automatically kept on a community employment scheme. [9018/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Fahey)

Persons currently employed on the community employment programme and who qualify for the new rural social scheme, will have the option to remain on community employment or transfer to the new scheme. Participants who wish to progress to the open labour market may wish to remain on CE and continue to receive the appropriate level of personal development and training provided by this programme. Eligible CE participants who choose to transfer to the rural social scheme, which is the responsibility of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, will be allowed to do so.

Job Creation.

Michael Ring

Question:

101 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when a plant (details supplied) in Crossmolina, County Mayo, will be fully operational; and when the jobs promised to the people of the region will be filled. [9019/04]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

DeCare International is a leader in the US dental benefits industry. Its subsidiary and flagship company, Delta Dental Plan of Minnesota, is a non-profit health services company that administers prepaid dental service plans.

In 1999 DeCare established a dental claimprocessing centre in Claremorris, County Mayo. DeCare Operations Ireland Limited currently employs 102 people and handles more than 22,000 dental claims submitted daily from its US headquarters. In November 2001, DeCare announced the expansion of its existing operation in Claremorris and the establishment of a new facility at Crossmolina, County Mayo. The new investment was part of DeCare's growth strategy for both the US and world markets. The company planned to recruit 210 new employees over a three year period, 50 in Claremorris and 160 at Crossmolina. It was envisaged that the Mayo facilities would take responsibility for customer relationship management worldwide outside of the US, including telephone support, written responses and Internet support to dental subscribers.

The company has advised IDA Ireland that, as neither existing nor new markets had developed as anticipated, business and employment targets have not yet been attainable. At this time, the company has stated that it cannot give any indication as to when it will be in a position to commence employment in Crossmolina.

Insurance Industry.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

102 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her proposals to bring about a substantial reduction in motor insurance premia; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9063/04]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

The insurance reform programme that I announced on the 25 October 2002 comprises a comprehensive set of interrelated measures designed to improve the functioning of the Irish insurance market. I chair a ministerial committee established to drive the co-ordinated implementation of the reform programme across the relevant Departments and other bodies concerned. Substantial progress is being made on a range of measures that will radically overhaul the functioning of the insurance market and help tackle the high cost of insurance.

The key measures include the implementation of the recommendations in the Motor Insurance Advisory Board action plan within a target timeframe. To date, 32 of the recommendations have been fully implemented, four partially implemented and work is in progress on the implementation of the other recommendations.

A second measure is the establishment of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board. The Personal Injuries Assessment Board Bill 2003 completed its passage through the Houses of the Oireachtas on 19 December 2003 and was signed into law on 28 December 2003. The provisions of this Act will be commenced in the near future. A CEO designate has been appointed and commenced duty on 2 February 2004. The proposed structure and staffing levels of the new body are finalised and a recruitment campaign commenced in February. The board will be operational when the necessary staff and IT systems are in place, which is expected to be in the second quarter of this year. The PIAB interim board has made significant progress in this regard.

My Department and the Competition Authority have undertaken a joint study into the insurance market. The study will identify and analyse barriers to entry and limitations on rivalry in the insurance marketplace. The bulk of the study was completed in 2003 and a preliminary report and consultation document on competition issues in the non-life insurance market was published on 18 February 2004. Following a two month consultation period, a final report will be published which will contain recommendations based on its findings.

Significant progress has been made by the Department of Transport in relation to the implementation of the road safety strategy. The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform published the Civil Liability and Courts Bill on 11 February. This Bill contains measures to streamline the law in relation to personal injury claims including measures to deal with fraudulent and exaggerated claims.

While EU law prohibits the imposition of price control on insurance I have made it clear that I consider there to be an onus on the insurance industry to ensure that the reforms to be taken will have the effect of significantly reducing the cost of premia to consumers and businesses. Indications to date are that the reform programme is having its desired effect. The CSO publishes monthly indices of costs for a number of classes of insurance. These statistics show that there was a reduction of 11.8 index points,11.1%, in motor car insurance between the months of January 2003 and January 2004. Further, the CSO noted a significant contribution from insurance to the recent reduction in inflation. As implementation of the reform programme continues, I expect further reductions to occur in all forms of insurance. I am also confident that the measures the Government is putting in place to reform the Irish insurance market will attract new players into the market leading to further downward pressure on premia.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

103 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the total cost to the exchequer or EU of events to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9178/04]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

The number of functions or receptions held to date by my Department in connection with Ireland's Presidency of the EU is ten. These events have been held in Dublin, Galway and Kildare. Of these events, eight were at official level and two had ministerial involvement. The numbers attending these functions varied from 17 at a meeting of ASEM, the Asia-Europe meeting co-ordinators, to up to 370 attendees at an informal meeting of Ministers with responsibility for employment, social policy, health and consumer affairs. In three instances, Garda escorts were provided for Ministers. Invitations were mostly issued by e-mail and post, and in one instance by courier. The total cost to my Department for these events is €686,863.

Departmental Properties.

John Bruton

Question:

104 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Defence the plans for Defence Forces families living in Gormanston Camp now that Gormanston lands will be among the State lands released under the Sustaining Progress affordable housing initiatives; the location the families of the Defence Forces will be deployed to; if compensation will be afforded to them to meet the costs of moving house if this is necessary; the time scale for the redeployments; the notice that the families will receive before the move takes place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8255/04]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

There are no married quarters at Gormanston Camp so the question as to the redeployment of Defence Forces families does not arise.

Departmental Staff.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

105 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Defence the number of staff appointed by him, from outside the Civil Service, since the general election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8327/04]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

I have, as Minister for Defence, appointed three staff since June 2002, as follows :

Job Description	Current Salary	Expenses up to 12 March, 2004
	€	€
Special Advisor to the Minister for Defence	72,128 per annum	4,280.97
Personal Assistant to the Minister for Defence	40,918 per annum	Nil
Personal Secretary to the Minister for Defence	633.80 per week	Nil

All three appointments, which are subject to the Civil Service Regulation Acts 1956 to 1996 and any other Act for the time being in force relative to the Civil Service, are to temporary non-established positions in the Civil Service.

Departmental Properties.

Pat Breen

Question:

106 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Defence further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 209 of 2 March 2004, if a map forming part of the said draft order indicated a proposal to designate four sub-areas in the vicinity of Baldonnel Aerodrome; if so, the proposed height restriction on building development within each such sub-area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8467/04]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

The draft protected area order proposed in the 1950s, which was not promulgated, provided for four sub areas in the general environs of Baldonnel Aerodrome. The proposed height restrictions were area A: any height; area B: any height greater than 35 feet; area C: any height greater than 35 feet if the elevation is greater than 375 feet; and area D: any height greater than 35 feet if the elevation is greater than 475 feet. The current safety policy reflects best international practice in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards and recommendations and provides for military training in the area.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

107 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access services of his Department. [8638/04]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

No money has been allocated by my Department to fund services described by the Deputy during the period in question. Offices which are open to the public are accessible to people with disabilities and facilities for disabled persons are provided for in all new buildings and in all major refurbishments contracts.

Departmental Properties.

Jack Wall

Question:

108 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the plans his Department has to protect the many military and civilian monuments and historical sites on the Curragh, County Kildare; if he has satisfied himself that the signage in regard to such historical sites is such that the tourist value is maximised and fully effective; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8895/04]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

The main recommendation contained in the report of the interdepartmental task force on the future management and development of the Curragh of Kildare is that a statutory body should be established under the aegis of the Department of Defence to manage the Curragh, with the exception of the Defence Forces training centre. The necessary legislation to give effect to this, and to other recommendations of the task force report, is being prepared at present and it is expected that heads of Bill will shortly be submitted for the approval of Government.

My Department will continue to protect archaeological sites and historical features situated on the Curragh plains until the new authority is established within the legislation currently being prepared. The entire area of the Curragh is classified as a recorded monument under section 12 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1994 and my Department ensures that the terms of that Act are adhered to before any works, alterations or signage are permitted.

The military authorities comply with relevant planning legislation in relation to protected structures located at the Defence Forces training centre.

Defence Forces Equipment.

Jack Wall

Question:

109 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the number of contracts placed by his Department with any of the Nordic countries for equipment over the past two years; the total cost of such contracts; his plans to purchase equipment from these countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8896/04]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

I am advised that some 40 orders / contracts have been placed by my Department with companies in the Nordic region for equipment in 2002 and 2003. The value of the orders/contracts was €12.5 million, approximately. Tender competitions are held for the acquisition of equipment for the Defence Forces. These competitions determine the company and country of origin of the equipment.

Jack Wall

Question:

110 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the number of contracts for military equipment placed with non-EU member states for each of the past three years; the total cost of such contracts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8897/04]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

I am advised that orders/contracts have been placed by my Department with companies in non-EU member states in the past three years. The details are as follows:

Year	No. of Orders/ Contracts	Value
		€
2001	32	5.5m. approx.
2002	23	39m. approx.
2003	64	77m. approx.

Tender competitions are held for the acquisition of equipment for the Defence Forces. These competitions determine the company and country of origin of the equipment.

The main contract placed in 2002 was for an additional 25 APCs from Mowag of Switzerland with a value of over €34 million, including VAT. Payments under the contract are spread over a number of years, from 2002 to 2005. All 25 vehicles are scheduled for delivery this year.

In 2003, following a tender competition a contract was placed with Pilatus of Switzerland for the supply of eight trainer aircraft for the Air Corps. The value of the contract including VAT is €60 million, approximately and again, the payments are spread over a number of years up to 2005. All eight aircraft are scheduled for delivery this year.

Defence Forces Pay.

Jack Wall

Question:

111 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the consideration given to the payment of the military service allowance to soldiers that have retired; the representations he has received in relation to the matter; his plans to implement the payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8906/04]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

Arising from a recommendation made in 1990 by the Commission on Remuneration and Conditions of Service in the Defence Forces, the Gleeson commission, military service allowance was made pensionable in the case of personnel retiring on or after 1 August 1990. This approach was fully consistent with settled public service pensions policy which provides that the benefit of an allowance being made pensionable for serving personnel does not extend to existing pensioners.

More recently, the Commission on Public Service Pensions specifically addressed the issue of the pensionability of allowances, including military service allowance, and the consequences for public service pensioners generally in its final report which was published in January 2001. However, having considered the arguments advanced by the groups affected, together with long-standing public service pensions policy in that context and the substantial cost implications involved, the commission did not recommend any increase for the pensioners concerned. No change in existing policy on this matter has been authorised or is contemplated.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

112 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the cost to the Exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9179/04]

Minister for Defence (Mr. M. Smith)

In so far as my Department is concerned, two meetings at senior official level have been held to date in Dublin as part of Ireland's Presidency of the EU. Both meetings were held at the same location, one over two days in January and the other over two days in February. Some 90 delegates attended the January meeting and 160 attended the February meeting. As the meetings were at senior official level, no Garda escorts were required. Invitations were issued both through the postal service and by electronic mail. The total cost of both events is €56,000.

Export Licences.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

113 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he intends introducing an export licence for the export of dogs, including pups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8736/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

My colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, has general statutory responsibility for the control of dogs and related issues under the provisions of the Control of Dogs Acts 1986 and 1992. I have no plans to introduce a regime of export licensing for dogs.

Under the provisions of the European Communities (Trade in Animals and Animal Semen, Ova and Embryos) Regulations 1996, S.I. 12 of 1996, which transposes Directive 92/65/EEC, my Department provides health certification for exports of traded dogs to other member states, apart from the UK. This certification relates, inter alia, to identification, rabies status and vaccination, distemper vaccination and fitness to travel. Provided there is compliance with animal health rules, there can be no restriction in intracommunity trade in such animals. In recognition of the rabies free status of Ireland and the UK, there is free movement of dogs and cats between these two jurisdictions. The Deputy will appreciate the practical difficulties to which any system requiring the licensing of the movement of dogs to the UK, including Northern Ireland, would give rise.

Animal Identification Scheme.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

114 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a herd number has not been granted to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8322/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

My Department cannot grant a herd number to the person indicated because he has declared that he has no cattle at present and does not intend to purchase any cattle until 2006. As this person has a flock of sheep, he has applied under the national sheep identification scheme and has now been registered as a flock owner by my Department's district veterinary office in Galway.

Departmental Staff.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

115 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of staff appointed by him from outside the Civil Service since the general election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8328/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The details requested are outlined in the following table:

	Minister Walsh
Personal Assistant	1
Personal Secretary	1
Drivers	0

Total salaries and expenses paid to these staff in 2003 was €76,315.82.

Milk Quota.

Enda Kenny

Question:

116 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties that have arisen in respect of the case of persons (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if his attention has further been drawn to the complications arising from this particular case; if he has investigated same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8390/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

I am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers. In 1997 the person named leased land and milk quota from a participant in the early retirement scheme for a period of approximately six years. In 2003, by order of the Circuit Court, that quota was returned to the landlord. The landlord then applied to my Department to have a substitute lessee installed and on the basis that the court had ordered the termination of the existing agreement, my Department agreed to that request. My Department did not have any basis or evidence on which to question the validity of the lease before the matter was dealt with by the court. The basis for action by my Department was solely in accordance with the court order.

Animal Welfare Bodies.

Billy Timmins

Question:

117 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position in relation to the award of a grant in view of the fact that a trust (details supplied) received €12,000, while others received €30,000; the criteria used in deciding the size of the awards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8409/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

In recent years I have made ex gratia funding available to a number of bodies involved in the direct delivery of animal care and welfare services throughout the country, having regard to the monies available to me from within the Department’s Vote at the end of the year. In December 2003 grants totalling €850,000 were awarded to 80 organisations to assist them in their activities in 2004. A copy of the press release, which details the organisations that received funding, will be furnished to the Deputy. The organisations in question provide a range of services and carry out valuable work.

Applications for funding were considered against a number of criteria. These included the standing of each applicant, past performance in respect of utilisation of grants from my Department and impact, both real and potential, that is, that direct care and welfare services to animals have been delivered which have had a meaningful impact on animal welfare in the locality. The levels of grant assistance provided also took account of the fact that large urban areas make particularly onerous demands on animal welfare services. In considering the amounts granted in each case, a conscious effort was made to achieve proportionality and the greatest possible spread of benefits from within available resources.

This was the first time the organisation referred to in this question had applied to my Department for grant assistance within the context of these disbursements. Its application was considered having regard to the criteria applied to all other applications. On this basis, a payment of €12,000 was granted to assist it in its work during 2004. Those organisations which received €30,000 in 2003 made applications for grant assistance in previous years and all were considered based on the same criteria.

Live Exports.

Pat Breen

Question:

118 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the representations he is making to the European Commission in his capacity as President of the Agriculture Council of Ministers in relation to the proposal by the European Commission to review the live export conditions which will have a devastating effect on farmers here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8450/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

I assume the Deputy is referring to a Commission proposal for a Council regulation on the protection of animals during transport which is at present being discussed at EU level. In principle, I favour the application of rules which protect the welfare conditions for animals being transported over long distances, while also permitting the livestock sector to continue to avail of the benefits of a single European market. While welcoming many aspects of the proposal, certain elements could have potentially adverse implications for the live export trade. These concerns have been conveyed to all involved in negotiations at every step of the process.

Considerable progress has been made on this complex document during the Irish Presidency. While many differing views have been expressed, I am hopeful that a compromise proposal, which will meet the legitimate concerns of those exercised by the need to improve welfare conditions for animals being transported, while permitting the live export trade to continue in a manner which is sustainable and economically viable, will be presented to Council of Ministers within the next few weeks.

Suckler Cow Quota.

Pat Breen

Question:

119 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will consider a decision to reinstate a suckler cow quota to a person (details supplied) in County Clare in view of the circumstances involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8502/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The suckler cow quota of nine premium rights has already been restored to the person named who was informed accordingly on 5 March 2004 following consideration of an appeal submitted by him on that date.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

125 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason deductions are being made from the farm retirement pension of a person (details supplied) in respect of a social welfare pension when the person is not currently in receipt of a social welfare pension. [8725/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The person named is a participant in the 1994 early retirement scheme introduced under EU Council Regulation 2079/92, which she entered in joint management with her husband. It is a requirement of the Council regulation that any national retirement pension to which a scheme participant and his or her spouse or partner in a joint management situation becomes entitled must be deducted from the early retirement pension. The husband of the person named is in receipt of a non-contributory old age pension and this is being deducted from the early retirement pension. His pension was increased with effect from January in line with the changes announced in the 2004 budget and the amount of this increase was deducted from the early retirement pension.

Grant Payments.

Gerard Murphy

Question:

126 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason his Department is denying payment to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [8726/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The person named participated in 2002 extensification premium, while opting for the simplified system for the purposes of determining eligibility. On participation, he chose to observe a stocking density of less than 1.40 livestock units per hectare for each and every day of 2002. Under the terms of the scheme and the relevant regulation, my Department is required to carry out stocking density cross-checks against the CMMS animal database prior to payment to ensure that the stocking density, as chosen, was not breached. Cross-checks were carried out on 19 May and 15 September 2002 and stocking densities of 1.2932 and 1.4291 livestock units per hectare, respectively, were established. These stocking densities were calculated on a total forage area of 45.62 hectares. In view of the fact that the chosen stocking density was found to have been breached at 15 September 2002, the person named cannot be considered for payment of 2002 extensification premium under EU regulations. The person named is also a participant in 2003 extensification premium, payment of which is scheduled to commence in June of this year.

The person named was paid his full entitlement of €4,147.77 on 19 September 2003 under the 2003 area based compensatory allowance scheme. He was paid €3,999.60 in respect of the maximum eligible area of 45 hectares of more severely handicapped lowland and an additional sum of €148.17 under a compensation package agreed with the European Union for farmers experiencing losses under the area based compensatory allowance scheme.

The person named had seven animals slaughtered under the 2002 slaughter premium scheme. Payment in respect of these animals has issued in full. The person named also had 13 animals slaughtered under the 2003 slaughter premium scheme and has been paid 80% advance payment on all 13 animals. Balancing payments are due to commence in the coming weeks. The person named applied for premium on 60 animals under the 2003 suckler cow premium scheme. An 80% advance instalment for €10,759.20 issued on 16 October 2003. The balancing payment will issue shortly.

Mayo Landslide.

Michael Ring

Question:

127 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason Parliamentary Question No. 187 of 3 March 2004 was not answered in full; and if he will give a full and detailed reply. [8729/04]

Michael Ring

Question:

138 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be compensated for damage to their land during the landslides in north Mayo in September 2003. [8987/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 127 and 138 together.

As stated in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 172 on 10 March, the position is that following from the meeting between officials from my Department and the landslide committee on 23 January last, arrangements were made to have a detailed survey of the affected area carried out. The results of that survey have recently become available and the matter is now under review in my Department. I confirm that the person named is included among the farms surveyed.

Suckler Cow Quota.

Willie Penrose

Question:

128 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position of farmers who are currently participating in the early retirement scheme and who hold a suckler cow quota, which they have now leased in the context of the Fischler proposals and the decoupling measures; if he will indicate how such farmers will be treated therein, and if they will maintain such suckler cow quotas at the end of their lease, which will facilitate them for returning to farming if they so desire; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8735/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The position is that all livestock premia and arable aid schemes are to be fully decoupled from production as and from 1 January 2005 and will be replaced by the new single payment scheme to be introduced from 2005. The quota regime in respect of the livestock premia schemes will cease to be in existence from 31 December 2004. Consequently, quotas, including suckler cow quotas, will no longer exist for any farmer after that date and will not be required to ensure payment of the single payment scheme in the future.

Under the European Council regulation introducing the single payment scheme, a farmer may have access to the scheme if he was an active farmer during the reference years 2000, 2001 and 2002 and received payments under the livestock premia and/or arable aid schemes. In addition, farmers for whom entitlements will be established must activate those entitlements in 2005 by continuing to farm and submitting an area aid declaration in that year. In general, farmers must also have an eligible hectare of land for each payment entitlement.

Farmers who were participating in the early retirement scheme prior to the commencement of the reference period will not have any entitlements established for them under the single payment scheme as they had already retired from farming and because of their obligations under the early retirement scheme, they may not return to farming in the future. The persons who were leasing the retired farmer's lands and were active farmers in the reference period will have entitlements established for them. It should be noted that entitlements are attached to the farmer who was actively farming during the reference period and not to the land. However, during the Council negotiations last year I secured agreement that farmers, including offspring of farmers who retired before the reference period, who take over the holding of the retired farmers at some date in the future will be able to apply to the national reserve for payment entitlements under the single payment scheme.

Farmers who entered the early retirement scheme during or after the reference period will have entitlements established for them, provided they were actively farming during the reference period and received payment under the relevant schemes. However, because they have now ceased farming under the early retirement scheme, they will not be in a position to obtain payment under the single payment scheme in 2005 or thereafter. The European Council regulation provides for such entitlements to revert to the national reserve. However, the question of whether retired farmers in this category should be allowed to activate entitlements with a view to leasing them out in 2005 and thereafter is one of the items under discussion in the context of the Commission establishing detailed rules. Negotiations are still ongoing and agreement is not expected until the end of this month or early in April. It would be unwise at this stage to speculate on what the final outcome will be.

Animal Welfare Bodies.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

129 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will give assistance to an association (details supplied) in Dublin 5 so it can discharge its responsibilities. [8737/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

In recent years I have made ex gratia funding available to a number of bodies involved in the delivery of animal care and welfare services throughout the country, having regard to the resources available to me from within the Department’s Vote at year end. In December 2003, grants totalling €850,000 were awarded to 80 organisations. The organisations concerned had approached the Department seeking assistance. A grant of €15,000 was paid to the Cats Protection Association of Ireland in December 2003 to assist it in its activities in 2004.

Grant Payments.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

130 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason for the delay in the payment of forestry premium to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry. [8738/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

Michael Ring

Question:

136 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will make a decision on an appeal by a person (details supplied) in County Sligo regarding commonage destocking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8880/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

Appeals against the destocking provisions of the commonage framework plans are considered by an independent appeals committee under the chairmanship of Mr. Gerry Scully, chief sheep adviser with Teagasc. To date, one appeal has been lodged in respect of a commonage framework plan in County Sligo, plan reference SL05-Q. The person named was not a party to that appeal. If he wishes to lodge an appeal against a plan other than the one mentioned above, he should contact the secretary, commonage framework plan appeals, Department of Agriculture and Food, Johnstown Castle Estate, County Wexford.

International Trade.

John Perry

Question:

137 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will make statement on correspondence (details supplied). [8986/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The Council of Agriculture Ministers is acutely aware of the needs of developing countries and of the implications for them of policy decisions taken at EU level. I am satisfied that the recent reform of the CAP will be of benefit to developing countries, including ACP countries. Decoupled payments will replace production related supports, thereby reducing the potential distortion impact of production related supports.

Trade with ACP countries is governed by the terms of the ACP-EU partnership, which was signed in Cotonou in June 2000, under which the EU grants non-reciprocal trade preferences to imports from ACP countries. In September 2002, the ACP countries and the EU officially launched negotiations on a series of economic partnership agreements which will replace the existing arrangements with reciprocal agreements that are WTO compatible and which will retain an element of differential treatment for the ACP countries. These economic partnership agreements will cover trade in agricultural products. The current preferential trade regime has been extended pending completion of the negotiations.

Furthermore, the EU has recently abolished tariffs and other such restrictions on all products from the 49 poorest countries on the planet, the least developed countries. This "everything but arms" initiative gives these countries immediate duty and quota free access to the EU market. This includes products such as beef, milk products, fruit and vegetables. A transitional period applies for rice, bananas and sugar but full liberalisation will be in place by 2009.

In the context of the WTO talks, the EU is asking that other developed WTO partners provide similar concessions.

Question No. 138 answered with QuestionNo. 127.

Question No. 139 answered with QuestionNo. 135.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

140 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of the postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the cost to the Exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9180/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

To date there have been no functions or receptions held by me or my Department in connection with Ireland's Presidency of the EU. A number of functions are planned for later in our Presidency.

Grant Payments.

Dan Neville

Question:

141 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a headage payment will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [9205/04]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

The terms and conditions governing the 2003 area based compensatory allowance scheme require that applicants maintain a minimum stocking density of an average of 0.15 livestock units per forage hectare in the calendar year preceding the year of application. As CMMS checks to establish what stock was on the holding in 2002 were unable to establish that the minimum stocking was maintained, my Department wrote to the person named on 13 October 2003 asking him to detail the stock which was maintained by him on his holding during the year. No reply has been received by my Department's local office and a final decision regarding the eligibility or otherwise of the application cannot be made until a reply is received.

Tax Code.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

142 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance if he has any plans to have schools exempted from VAT payments; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this has become a serious issue as far as schools are concerned; his views on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8292/04]

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

151 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance his plans to provide exemption from VAT payments to primary and second level schools; if his attention has been drawn to the interest in this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8299/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 151 together.

In accordance with the EU sixth VAT directive and Irish VAT law, most education and training, including primary and secondary level schools, are exempt from VAT. This means they do not charge VAT on the services they supply but cannot recover VAT on the goods and services they purchase. Essentially, only VAT registered businesses which charge VAT are able to recover VAT.

I presume the Deputy is proposing that a provision should be introduced whereby primary and secondary schools are relieved of VAT. It is normal for most State funded services, such as schools or hospitals, to bear VAT on their purchases. However, Exchequer funding for such services, including primary and secondary schools, takes account of VAT when allocations are being made by the Government. Given this position, I would be concerned about the Exchequer cost of establishing a separate mechanism to relieve primary and secondary schools of VAT. There would be pressure to extend such a mechanism to all potentially affected sectors. I have, therefore, no plans to introduce a mechanism to relieve VAT incurred by primary and secondary schools.

Summer Works Scheme.

Pat Breen

Question:

143 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Finance when works will be carried out at Kilkishen national school in view of the fact that the removal of the asbestos was approved by the OPW and was included in the summer programme 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8451/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

The asbestos removal works at Kilkishen national school have been rescheduled for the summer programme 2004.

Departmental Expenditure.

Seán Power

Question:

144 Mr. S. Power asked the Minister for Finance the cost of holding the general election; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8613/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

While the definitive cost of the last general election, held in May 2002, has not yet been finalised, the provisional estimate of cost is €20 million approximately. Of this, postal expenses cost almost €8 million, purchase of electronic voting machines for the three constituencies where they were used cost €3.3 million, while the balance was for other returning officers' expenses, for example, fees for staff.

Seán Power

Question:

145 Mr. S. Power asked the Minister for Finance the cost of holding each of the past five referenda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8614/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

It has not been possible in the time available to provide the information sought by the Deputy in respect of the last five referenda. As soon as my officials have collated the data, I will supply the Deputy with the information sought. In the meantime, for the Deputy's information, the provisional estimate of costs of the last two referenda is: Treaty of Nice referendum in October 2002 — €10.9 million and referendum on the protection of human life in pregnancy in March 2002 — €7.2 million.

Civil Service Appointments.

Joe Costello

Question:

146 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons who were blacklisted for public service appointments in each decade since 1960; the criteria used to blacklist them; if there is a list of names of persons in the Civil Service and Local Appointments Commission who are blacklisted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8874/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Under the Civil Service Commissioners Act 1956, the Civil Service Commissioners are responsible for selection procedures for appointment to the Civil Service. Applicants for posts in the Civil Service must go through the competitive procedures set out by the commissioners which may involve short-listing, tests, interviews, and other checks before a final appointment is made by the commissioners. The commissioners must, in common with other employers, ensure that an applicant is qualified for the post being applied for by, among other things, validating their educational qualifications, health status, as well as obtaining statements from referees and character reports. Details of the outcome of the procedures used by the commissioners to check a candidate's suitability are confidential in the interests of both the service and the applicant.

Drainage Schemes.

Mary Wallace

Question:

147 Ms M. Wallace asked the Minister for Finance the progress made over the past 12 months with regard to the Tolka River and Castle Stream at Dunboyne-Clonee including the list of works carried out and the list of works remaining to be carried out; the persons who will be responsible for the works remaining; the expected time frame on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8265/04]

Mary Wallace

Question:

148 Ms M. Wallace asked the Minister for Finance if he will outline the various reports that have been published with regard to flooding of the Tolka River and Castle Stream at Dunboyne-Clonee including the dates of the reports and progress to date with regard to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8266/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

I propose to take QuestionsNos. 147 and 148 together.

In June 2001 Dublin City Council had commissioned the greater Dublin strategic drainage study which is a multi-million euro engineering study of the strategic drainage requirements of the greater Dublin area. A full study of the Tolka, covering the Meath and Fingal County Council areas as well as the Dublin City Council area, was not included in the GDSDS at this time but, in view of the November 2000 flood, the Office of Public Works requested that it be included and funded it at a cost of €870,000.

The Tolka flooding study was under way when the November 2002 flood occurred. The consultants were asked to produce interim reports for all three local authorities to identify works that could be undertaken straight away to reduce the risk of flooding in the worst affected areas. The interim report for the Meath area was received by Meath County Council and the OPW in February 2003. Officials from the OPW and the county council agreed a programme of works, which would be funded and undertaken by the OPW. The proposed works were the subject of a public consultation procedure by Meath County Council as required under Part 8 of the planning and development regulations, and the main construction work began in July 2003.

The final report on the Tolka was completed in November 2003 and brings together many of the recommendations contained in the interim reports and also much additional information which will provide the basis for further decisions in relation to the catchment as a whole. The final report was published by Dublin City Council in December 2003, as Dublin City Council is the contracting authority for the report, and is available in the offices of each of the three local authorities involved. In Dublin it is available for viewing at the Civic Offices in Wood Quay and the public library in Drumcondra. It is available to view in the Meath area in Dunshaughlin area office and library, while Fingal County Council has made it available at its offices in Swords. In addition, the report has also been published on the websites of Dublin City and Meath county councils. The programme of works initiated in 2003 in County Meath included: the construction of a 1,400 metre long embankment on lands adjoining the Tolka River downstream of Dunboyne, from Loughsallagh to Clonee; the deepening and widening of the Castle Stream from the Maynooth Road bridge, Dunboyne, to the confluence with the Tolka River; underpinning of the old railway culvert to the rear of Beechdale Estate, Dunboyne; the construction of a 300 metre long, 1.5 metre high wall from Clonee bridge to the M3 and the upgrading of the Tolka over the same stretch; the replacement of the Rooske Road bridge, Dunboyne; general cleaning of the River Tolka in the Dunboyne and Clonee areas; and the removal and storage of the Castle bridge, Dunboyne. These works were funded by OPW and carried out, for the most part, by the OPW direct labour. Expenditure in 2003 was €766,000.

Some minor elements of above programme remain to be completed in 2004. The main element of the recommendations contained in the final report left to be done is the replacement of Loughsallagh bridge. Meath County Council will invite tenders for the replacement of this bridge shortly, and OPW has agreed to fund the costs of the work subject to the costs being reasonable. Expenditure in 2004 in the Meath area is expected to be in the region of €1million.

When work on Loughsallagh bridge is completed, almost all the recommendations contained in the final report for the Meath area will have been implemented. The remaining recommendations relate almost entirely to the Bennetstown-Bracetown area and involve the raising of parts of the Navan Road and the construction of some embankments. These recommendations will be considered by the OPW and Meath County Council for a further phase of works in due course. As the recommendations cater for a 100 year level of flood protection, I am satisfied that these works, when fully completed, will give long-term protection from flooding in the Dunboyne and Clonee areas from the Castle Stream and River Tolka.

Garda Stations.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

149 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance if the OPW will report on its evaluation of the need for a second Garda station in the west Tallaght area of Dublin 24; if his attention has been drawn to the need to deal with this particular issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8297/04]

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

150 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding plans for the redevelopment of the Garda station site at Tallaght, Dublin 24; if his attention has been drawn to the need for action in respect of this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8298/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

I propose to take QuestionsNos. 149 and 150 together.

Having completed a feasibility study on the redevelopment of the existing Garda station site at Tallaght, the Commissioners of Public Works have decided that the site will be offered for sale on the open market on condition that the purchaser constructs a new Garda station on a designated part of the site to a specification approved by the OPW and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The new station will fully address all Garda requirements in Tallaght, and a sketch scheme will be drawn up for the Department's approval in the next few months. Following receipt of planning approval for the Garda station, the site will be offered for sale on the open market on the basis that the purchaser must deliver the new Garda station in a definite timeframe. It is expected that the new station will be available by the end of 2006.

Question No. 151 answered with QuestionNo. 142.

Tax Code.

Pat Carey

Question:

152 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Finance if the tax matters of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8324/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the taxpayer was in partnership with another individual between March 2002 and April 2003. VAT returns for all periods up to April 2003 have been received and a VAT credit of €2,075 arises. Relevant contracts tax of €3,542 has also been paid. The total credit available for set-off against any other tax owed by the partnership is €5,617.

Given the nature of the break-up of the partnership, the taxpayer in question is finding it difficult to complete accounts for the partnership and his own personal tax return. He has agreed to submit to Revenue full details of the partnership, including debts outstanding at date of termination. On receipt of this information, Revenue expects to be in a position to finalise the tax liability of the partnership and his own personal tax liability.

Departmental Staff.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

153 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Finance the number of staff appointed by him from outside the Civil Service since the general election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8329/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table:

Name	Noeleen McCreevy*	Michael Fitzpatrick
Position Held	Personal Secretary	Personal Assistant
Date of appointment	17th May 2002	17th May 2002

Salary Details
17/5/02 to 31/12/02	€23,272	€22,838
01/01/2003 to 31/12/03	€39,970	€42,234
01/01/04 to 19/3/04	€9,876	€10,075
Total salary	€73,118	€75,147
Allowance details
17/5/02 to 31/12/02	€2,245	0
01/01/2003 to 31/12/03	€3,432	0
01/01/04 to 19/3/04	€829	0
Total Allowances	€6,506	0

Expenses details
17/5/02 to 31/12/02	0	€6,720
01/01/2003 to 31/12/03	€1,674	€8,927
01/01/04 to 19/3/04	0	€1,584
Total expenses	€1,674	€17,231

*Since the 1980s Ms McCreevy has been employed as a Dáil secretarial assistant and would have been paid out of the Vote of the Houses of the Oireachtas. Upon the appointment of a Deputy to an office holding position, such Dáil secretarial assistants may be appointed as employees of the relevant office holder's Department and are then paid from the relevant Department Vote. The information above relates to payments to Ms McCreevy in her capacity as personal secretary to the Minister for Finance.

State Claims Agency.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

154 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the role of the State Claims Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8406/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

Under the National Treasury Management Agency (Amendment) Act 2000, the management of personal injury and property damage claims against the State and of the underlying risks was delegated to the National Treasury Management Agency. When performing these functions, the NTMA is known as the State Claims Agency.

The Act sets out two objectives for the SCA: to manage claims to ensure that the State's liability and associated legal and other expenses are contained at the lowest achievable level, and to provide risk advisory services to State authorities with the aim of reducing over time the frequency and severity of claims.

The SCA manages personal injury and property damage claims against certain State authorities, including the State itself, Ministers, the Attorney General, the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána, prison governors, community and comprehensive schools and various other bodies listed in the Schedule to the Act.

The following classes of claim are expressly excluded from the SCA's remit: claims which give rise to constitutional issues; claims for compensation under the Garda Síochána (Compensation) Acts; claims against the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Garda Commissioner or a prison governor in respect of alleged assault by a member of the Garda Síochána or a prison officer; claims under the non-statutory scheme providing compensation for personal injury criminally inflicted on prison officers; hearing loss claims against the Minister for Defence or the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform; claims arising from infection with hepatitis C through the administration of blood or blood products; child abuse claims against the State; and claims in which torts other than negligence are pleaded.

These classes of claim have been excluded either because alternative compensation arrangements have already been put in place by the Government or because they give rise to issues of legal policy which require the ongoing close involvement of the Attorney General.

Child Care Services.

Joe Higgins

Question:

155 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider introducing tax relief or other incentives to help parents with the excessive burden of child care costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8432/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

As the Deputy will be aware, over the past number of years the Government has considered carefully the whole area of child care. The core objective of Government policy in the area of child support is to provide assistance which will offer real choice to parents and which will benefit all children. In that context it has been decided that, as a matter of policy, child benefit will be the main fiscal instrument through which support will be provided to parents with dependent children. Child benefit provides assistance to all parents in whatever caring choices are most appropriate for them and their children. In addition, unlike tax relief, it provides support to parents irrespective of their income status.

In line with this policy approach, the Government commenced a major initiative to substantially increase the rates of child benefit. In 2001, the rate for the first and second child was increased by almost €32 per month and by €38 per month for the third and subsequent children. This represented an increase of over 50% on the rates prevailing in 2000. Similar monetary increases were provided in 2002. Further increases were implemented in 2003 and, in my recent Budget Statement, I announced additional increases of €6 and €8 per month respectively in 2004 which are around double the projected inflation rate for this year. All this means that, since 1997, the child benefit rates have increased by more than 230% compared with a projected increase of inflation of only 28% over the period 1997 to 2004.

In addition, the Government has in place a package of other expenditure measures to support child care needs. The supply of formal child care places throughout Ireland is being stimulated through a programme of investment under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. The equal opportunities programme is making capital grant assistance available with the aim of increasing the supply of quality child care places to address the child care needs of parents who wish to remain in or return to employment, education and training. The programme aims to increase by 50% the supply of child care places by end 2006. The budget for the programme is €436.7 million and is funded by the Government and the European Union. This funding and the recent increases in child benefit are a significant financial commitment and clearly show the Government's continuing support for the child care sector.

Given the Government's policy in this area as outlined above, I have no plans at this time to introduce a specific tax relief for parents in relation to the costs incurred for child care. There is an exemption to the usual benefit-in-kind provisions for employees who have free or subsidised child care facilities provided by their employers. The exemption applies whether the employer provides the facilities in-house or in a premises made available by the employer in another location. The exemption also applies if an employer provides child care facilities jointly with others, for example, other employers.

Furthermore, capital allowances are available for expenditure incurred on child care facilities which meet the required standards for such facilities as provided in the Child Care Act 1991. Child care services are also generally exempt from VAT, so no VAT should be chargeable on fees levied by crèches.

Under the auspices of Sustaining Progress, the Government has committed itself to ensuring, inter alia, that the Department of Social and Family Affairs will review the contribution made by its income support system to people reconciling work and family life and prepare a national programme focusing on the development of family policy and supports to mark the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family.

Question No. 156 answered with QuestionNo. 30.

Decentralisation Programme.

Pat Breen

Question:

157 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider a proposal by Industry Ennis to decentralise some information technology units to Ennis in view of the fact that Ennis has important IT infrastructure and is Ireland’s information age town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8445/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

An implementation committee was set up immediately after the budget announcement on decentralisation to drive forward the programme. Among its terms of reference was the provision to Government of advice on 835 IT posts included in the programme. The implementation committee will report to Government on its overall implementation plan by the end of March 2004.

Pat Breen

Question:

158 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Finance when decentralisation of revenue staff to Kilrush in County Clare will take place; if he has identified offices for such transfer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8446/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the timescale for the decentralisation of 50 staff to Kilrush is dependent on the availability of suitable accommodation in the location and the completion of the decentralisation implementation committee's implementation plan. A site has not yet been identified in Kilrush. The OPW is undertaking an initial assessment of proposals.

Question No. 159 answered with QuestionNo. 54.

Planning Issues.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

160 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance when the planning and management study for Oldbridge Estate by a company (details supplied) of May 2001 will be made available to the public. [8480/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

The study will form part of the briefing documentation accompanying a formal memorandum being prepared by the Department of Foreign Affairs for the Government's consideration. It is envisaged that the study will be published shortly thereafter.

Sale of Land.

Gerard Murphy

Question:

161 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance when the Office of Public Works expects to be in a position to complete the sale of a portion of land attached to Ballydesmond Garda station, Mallow, County Cork, to facilitate a housing development. [8485/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

The request to dispose of the portion of the land in question has only recently been referred to the Commissioners of Public Works. This request will be examined in the context of the effect on the overall existing site and indeed any possible future requirement for the site. On the completion of the review the commissioners will contact the person involved.

Question No. 162 answered with QuestionNo. 29.

Pension Provisions.

Richard Bruton

Question:

163 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the impact of the new pension provisions on the pension entitlement of paid public service workers as a result of the new rules for social welfare pension co-ordination with public service pension entitlements. [8616/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I indicated in the budget for 2004 my intention to bring forward proposals to change certain pension terms for existing staff. These proposals include, among other things, provisions to amend the formula used for integrating public service and social welfare pensions in order to make better provision for current and future staff on lower pay levels.

Integration is the arrangement whereby, in the case of public service employees on full PRSI, the social welfare pension is combined with the occupational pension to provide a combined pension which is at least as good as the pension which would have been payable if the sole source of pension were occupational pension alone. The lump sum payment due at the time of retirement is not integrated and as such is payable in full based on pensionable remuneration and service.

Under the current approach to integration of pensions, the occupational portion of pensions is calculated on the basis of net pensionable remuneration, that is, pensionable remuneration less an offset of twice the value of the old age contributory pension. The occupational portion of pension is then calculated at a rate of 1/80th of the net pensionable remuneration for each year of reckonable service up to a maximum or 40/80th over 40 years. The current approach can provide a very low rate of occupational pension, apart from lump sum, for public servants who retire on low levels of pay.

In the approach recommended by the Commission on Public Service Pensions and discussed with the public service unions, a new formula would be used which would ensure that workers with income below 3 1/3rd times' old age contributory pension, currently €557 per week or €29,100 per annum, would be guaranteed a certain level of occupational pension as well as the full old age contributory pension. Discussions are under way with the public service unions on the development of a new formula in line with the commission's recommendations.

Garda Stations.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

164 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance if funding will be made available for the construction of a new Garda station in Wexford town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8617/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

The question of funding for the construction of a new Garda station in Wexford town will be addressed when a suitable site is acquired. The process of identifying a suitable site is at an advanced stage.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

165 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Finance the money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access services of his Department. [8640/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

As the Deputy will appreciate, providing services to persons with disabilities is not among the functions of this Department and, consequently, the Department's Estimates for 2003 and 2004 do not contain allocations for directly funding such services. However, the Department's Estimates for both years contain an allocation of €7.618 million in each year for payments to the promoters of certain charitable lotteries. The main beneficiary of this allocation in 2003 was the Rehab Group which received €5.845 million, while the Polio Fellowship of Ireland and the Irish Wheelchair Association were among the other beneficiaries.

As regards enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access the Department's services, the Department's Estimates for 2003 and 2004 do not contain specific allocations for this purpose. However, in 2003, the special projects unit of the Department spent €2,178 on Braille key panels for attachment to the Department's time and attendance clocks and the departmental training unit spent a further €600 in providing services for visually-impaired staff at presentations and talks. The Department will continue to keep under review the accessibility of its services to persons with disabilities.

I should add that responsibility for the improvement of physical access to the various buildings occupied by my Department rests with the Office of Public Works, OPW, and my Department maintains contact with the OPW regarding the implementation of access improvements. In 2003, at the Department's request, the OPW provided an external disabled access lift from the South Road into Government Buildings, and in 2004, the OPW has been requested to provide a similar access at the front door of the Department's Mount Street offices. In view of the OPW's cross-departmental role in this area, I have arranged for it to supply information about its activities directly to the Deputy.

Tax Code.

Seamus Kirk

Question:

166 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Finance if there are plans to introduce VAT on postage stamps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8723/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The European Commission proposed a draft directive to change the existing VAT treatment of public postal services and postage stamps on 5 May 2003. This has been discussed in Brussels at the relevant tax questions working party. If the draft directive were agreed as proposed by the European Commission, one of the potential effects would be the imposition of a positive rate of VAT on postage stamps. Ireland has indicated in the context of EU discussions that it is opposed to this proposal in its present form.

Question No. 167 answered with QuestionNo. 30.

Flood Relief.

Seán Haughey

Question:

168 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on discussions between the Irish Insurance Federation and the Minister of State at the Department of Finance in relation to flooding; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that householders in Drumcondra, Dublin 9, still cannot obtain household insurance from any insurance company in this State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8764/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

In November 2002, I initiated a major review of the State's approach to flooding with the primary objective of developing a cohesive national flooding policy for the future. On 6 December 2002, I met the Irish Insurance Federation, IIF, which welcomed my decision to initiate the review and outlined its views and concerns. I indicated that the State would play its part in risk reduction and that, in turn, the insurance industry would be expected to act in a responsible manner. I invited the IIF to make a submission to the review group. A submission was received and OPW officials subsequently met with the IIF to clarify certain aspects of that submission.

These discussions, along with all others involved in the consultation process carried out as part of the policy review, have contributed to shaping the review group's draft final report. That report is currently being considered by Departments before being submitted to Government for final consideration in the very near future. I am confident that the recommendations of the report can lead to a much improved flood management regime in Ireland and will, in the long term, substantially mitigate the impact of flooding on society.

One of the key components of future flood management strategy is the development of flood maps. These provide valuable information to assist in numerous decision-making processes, for example, planning and development, flood works prioritisation and assessment of risk. In this regard, I can confirm that the OPW has commenced work on a flood mapping programme, the first phase of which will be completed in 2005.

I am not in a position to intervene with insurance companies in regard to the risks that they are unwilling to underwrite. The appropriate regulatory body for the industry is the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority. I remain confident that the increased availability of risk information arising from the production of maps and other recommendations of the policy review, together with the implementation of a more strategic approach to flood management, will reduce exposure to risk and provide a more accurate basis upon which insurance companies formulate their decisions relating to potential flood damage in the future.

The final report of the River Tolka flooding study was published by Dublin City Council in December 2003 and details the measures required to protect homeowners against flooding along the river. The report is available on the Dublin City Council website and is also available to view in the library in Drumcondra. Copies of the report in CD-ROM format are also available from Dublin City Council.

An initial phase of works outlined in the report has already been completed by the Office of Public Works on behalf of Dublin City Council. The OPW and the city council are committed to carrying out the next phase of works in the current year, and discussions are ongoing to agree the detail and timing.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

169 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance if he intends to increase the number of pumping stations on the Cashen Estuary, County Kerry, to alleviate flooding at that location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8765/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

There has been no change in the situation since my reply of 9 December 2003 to the Deputy on the same subject.

Offshore Accounts.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

170 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the physical and mental anxiety and concern being placed on the elderly who are receiving documentation from the Office of the Revenue Commissioners in relation to foreign deposit accounts. [8766/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I assume the Deputy is referring to letters which have recently issued from Irish financial institutions to customers who hold or held accounts or investments in their offshore branches or subsidiaries. As part of a Revenue initiative to deal with tax evasion involving the use of accounts or investments in such offshore subsidiaries, Revenue recently encouraged the financial institutions to advise such customers of an upcoming Revenue investigation. They were also encouraged to advise any such customers, who themselves considered they may have tax issues, of the opportunity prior to commencement of that investigation on 29 March 2004 to avail of the Revenue voluntary disclosure scheme. Revenue has also written to the holders of foreign accounts or investments in some cases where it has been contacted directly by the taxpayer.

The letters issued by the banks and financial institutions clearly state that, if the customer's tax affairs are entirely in order, the letters should not be a cause of any concern. Where an individual's tax affairs are not in order, it is in the individual's own interest to take action prior to 29 March 2004 to regularise the matter in the context of the opportunity for voluntary disclosure.

Revenue has made available a comprehensive booklet entitled Making a Qualifying Disclosure of an Offshore Related Tax Default to Revenue. This booklet contains a series of frequently asked questions and answers together with calculation worksheets to assist taxpayers to determine if they need to make a disclosure and, if so, to calculate the tax interest and penalty due. Assistance is also available from Revenue's offshore assets group and local Revenue districts by telephone. The booklet contents and interactive spreadsheets are also available on the Revenue website at www.revenue.ie. I understand that Revenue is providing this material and assistance in the interests of ensuring that individuals can quickly determine if they have a tax problem so that they can deal with any such problems as effectively as possible and with the minimum of stress.

Property Investment Funds.

Seán Crowe

Question:

171 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the success of REITs in Britain, he has plans to introduce a similar system in this country. [8767/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

REITs, real estate investment trusts, exist in the United States to assist investors achieve diversified ownership of primary passive real estate investments. They qualify as pass-through entities, that is, entities which are able to distribute the majority of income cash flows to investors without taxation at the corporate level providing certain conditions are met. Therefore, an REIT is a tax transparent structure aimed at encouraging increased institutional investment in the housing market and at boosting affordable housing development.

The UK Chancellor, Gordon Brown, announced in his budget speech on 17 March 2004 that the UK Government accepts the recent UK Barker report recommendations for British real estate investment trusts to improve the supply of rented property. In this context it is understood that the British authorities will seek views on how these new vehicles, to be called property investment funds, PIFs, may be structured to meet the objectives of further enhancing the liquidity of property investment. I have no plans at present to introduce a similar system in this country but the position will continue to be monitored by my Department.

Mayo Landslide.

Michael Ring

Question:

172 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works has provided funding for the rebuilding of a bridge (details supplied) in County Mayo, which was completely destroyed by the landslides of September 2003. [8864/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

The Office of Public Works has no responsibility for this matter.

Decentralisation Programme.

Jack Wall

Question:

173 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance the number of applications received for the provision of facilities, that is, site, buildings and so on, for the decentralisation of the Department of Defence to Newbridge, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8907/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Mr. Parlon)

The number of property decentralisation proposals received by the Office of Public Works in respect of Newbridge is seven and these proposals are currently being assessed.

Jack Wall

Question:

174 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance the number of applications received for the provision of facilities for the decentralisation of a section of his Department to Athy, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8908/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the Office of Public Works received 16 proposals for accommodation facilities in Athy, County Kildare. These include sites and proposals to build. The Office of Public Works is currently undertaking an initial assessment of proposals.

Departmental Staff.

Denis Naughten

Question:

175 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance his the plans to appoint contract staff within the public service as permanent staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9062/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The following reply concerns the Civil Service only. I am not considering any general policy instruction or plan in this regard. Contract staff are appointed to carry out specific tasks or functions. This is reflected in the terms of the contract and, in particular, in the period of the contract. The issue of extending any contract is examined by management in Departments in the light of the business needs of the organisation and is a matter for Departments.

Tax Code.

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The euro is trading significantly higher against the US dollar than when it was introduced in January 2002. The euro's appreciation against sterling has been much less significant. The appreciation of the euro affects the economy in a number of different ways.

The main negative effect of a stronger euro is to make Irish exports less competitive on world markets. This occurs as exports to non-euro areas become relatively more expensive while at the same time imports from these areas become relatively less expensive. Also, firms competing with US and UK firms in markets outside the eurozone will experience competitiveness problems. The reduced competitiveness of the euro area lessens demand for Irish goods and services.

A significant proportion of Ireland's trade is with non-euro countries such as the UK and the US. The recent rise in the euro against sterling and the dollar must be a cause for concern. In my Budget Statement, I specifically highlighted Ireland's vulnerability to sharp falls in the US dollar exchange rate against the euro. That is why competitiveness is a priority for the Government. We must remain vigilant to the risks to our competitiveness, such as wage and price inflation. Otherwise, jobs will be at risk.

I have appointed a decentralisation implementation committee to drive the implementation of the programme. The committee, which is chaired by Phil Flynn, will prepare an implementation plan and will report back to Government by the end of March 2004.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

185 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the number of civil and or public servants who have so far agreed to relocate under the Government decentralisation proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9143/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

I have not undertaken a survey of civil servants or public servants to ascertain the numbers who wish to transfer to each of the locations included in the decentralisation programme. Conducting such a survey in advance of clearer timelines for the sequencing of all the various moves would be of limited value. Following the finalisation of the implementation plan by the decentralisation implementation committee, a structured trawl should be carried out to allow public servants apply for each of the locations announced. The nature of this trawl is the subject of discussion between public service management and unions.

Question No. 186 answered with QuestionNo. 82.

Question No. 187 answered with QuestionNo. 30.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

188 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the cost to the Exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9181/04]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The main focus for my Department in the Irish Presidency of the EU is the meetings of the Council of Economics and Finance Ministers of the EU. These meetings, which I chair on behalf of the Presidency, are held once a month over the six months of the Presidency. Most of the meetings are in Brussels or Luxembourg, but the informal meeting between 2 and 4 April takes place in Punchestown, County Kildare.

This meeting will be among the largest meetings to take place in Ireland over the period of the Presidency. It will be attended by some 300 delegates and up to 400 media personnel. The national delegations from the 25 member states of the enlarged EU will be led by Ministers for Finance and central bank governors in each case. The attendance will also include a number of Commissioners, among them President Prodi, and other distinguished representatives of EU institutions, including Mr Jean-Claude Trichet, President of the European Central Bank. Security is a prime concern in an event of this importance. As part of this, Garda motorcycle escorts will be provided for the transportation of delegations. Coach transfers will be used to the maximum extent possible. Invitations have been issued by post, fax and e-mail.

It is estimated that the direct Exchequer cost of the event, including venue hiring, venue fit-out, media facilities, hotel accommodation of delegates, transport, catering, hospitality, security, etc., will be of the order of €500,000. This is net of a contribution to the cost by the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland, reflecting the participation of central bank governors in the meeting. Holding a meeting of this scale and importance and ensuring that it is carried off in a manner that reflects well on the country is unavoidably expensive. Where ECOFIN Council meetings are held in Brussels or Luxembourg, the cost falls mainly on the EU.

The other main meetings in Ireland arising for my Department in the Presidency are:

Date	Meeting	Venue	Est. Cost (€)
26/27 February	Regional Ministers Meeting	Portlaoise	380,000
1 / 2 March	Asia-Europe Finance Deputies Meeting (ASEM)	Cork	60,000
27/28 May	Public Administration Directors General Meeting	Dublin Castle	76,000

Northern Ireland Issues.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

189 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his contacts with political parties in the North regarding the peace process; if his attention has been drawn to the widespread interest in this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8300/04]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

Since the review of the operation of the Good Friday Agreement was convened on 3 February 2004, we have had the opportunity to meet with all the political parties elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly. Over recent weeks, in partnership with the British Government, I and the Minister of State, Deputy Tom Kitt, have met with the parties on several occasions to discuss all aspects of the operation of the Agreement and to examine ways to resolve the outstanding issues.

On 9 February the Secretary of State, Paul Murphy, MP, and I met the Alliance Party, Sinn Féin, SDLP, DUP and UUP when we discussed a broad range of issues, including institutional matters regarding strands two and three. The Secretary of State, Mr. Murphy, also updated me on strand one meetings that had taken place the previous day.

Following the alleged abduction of a man in Belfast on 20 February, the review meetings on 24 February and 2 March focused primarily on paramilitary activity. After discussions with all the parties, both Governments asked the Independent Monitoring Commission to bring forward its first report, from July to May, covering all paramilitary activities since its establishment in early January. The commission subsequently indicated that the report would be presented to both Governments in early April. On 9 March, I met the Secretary of State, Mr. Murphy, in Stormont to review developments. On that day, I also met a DUP delegation and Mark Durkan, MLA, leader of the SDLP.

On 11 March, the Taoiseach and the Prime Minister, Tony Blair, MP, met at Farmleigh to assess the state of the process and to seek to add momentum to the efforts of the two Governments to find a way forward. To follow up on this meeting, the Taoiseach and Prime Minister, accompanied by appropriate colleagues, will meet the parties at Hillsborough Castle today. In all our meetings to date, the Government has made it clear that we are determined to see an early restoration of stable inclusive political institutions with a definitive end to all forms of paramilitarism. The Taoiseach recently stated: "There can be no half-way house between violence and democracy" and equally "no comfortable resting place between exclusion and partnership".

Foreign Conflicts.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

190 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on negotiations, within the context of Ireland’s EU Presidency, regarding the future of Cyprus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8301/04]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

Ireland, as EU President, welcomed the announcement in New York on 13 February by UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, with the agreement of the parties, that negotiations for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem would resume in Nicosia on 19 February. The accession of a united Cyprus on 1 May remains the clear preference of the European Union and these negotiations offer a real opportunity to achieve this historic objective.

The negotiations will move into their second phase tomorrow, 24 March, in Switzerland when Greece and Turkey, at the invitation of the UN Secretary General, will join the representatives of the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities in a concentrated effort to agree a finalised text by the end of the month. In the event of continuing deadlock at that time, the parties have invited the Secretary General, Mr. Annan, to use his discretion to finalise the text for submission to separate simultaneous referenda on the basis of this plan.

The General Affairs and External Relations Council, which I chaired on 23 February, welcomed the agreement of the parties to resume the negotiating process for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem in the framework of the Secretary General's mission of good offices and on the basis of his proposals. The Council stressed the full support of the Union for the Secretary General's efforts to conclude an agreement. It reiterated the willingness of the EU to accommodate the terms of a settlement in line with the principles on which the EU is founded and welcomed the readiness of the European Commission to fulfil its supportive role by providing assistance requested by the UN Secretary General. The Government continues to give its full support to the Secretary General. We are in regular contact with his team and with the Governments of Greece, Cyprus and Turkey. It is our firm hope that the parties will redouble their efforts in the negotiating process on the basis of their commitment to reach a settlement based on the Secretary General's proposals. The goal remains a settlement which will enable the accession of a united Cyprus to the EU on 1 May.

I welcome the organisation by the European Commission of a high level international conference in Brussels on 15 April to prepare a donor's conference. In advance of the referenda, scheduled for 20 April, this conference will demonstrate in a tangible way the support of the international community for the settlement and for its implementation. On 20 April, the people of Cyprus will exercise their democratic prerogative. I sincerely hope they will seize this opportunity to choose a future together which is in the interests of all the people of the island, of Europe and of the wider region.

Departmental Staff.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

191 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of staff appointed by him from outside the Civil Service since the General Election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8330/04]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

The tables indicate the numbers, job descriptions and salary scales of the staff appointed by me and by Ministers of State, Deputies Kitt and Roche, since June 2002.

Minister's office:
Job Description	Number	Salary scale
Personal Assistant	1	€37,520 — €44,328
Personal Secretary	1	€18,741 — €36,160

Minister of State, Deputy Kitt's office:
Job Description	Number	Salary scale
Personal Assistant	1	€37,520 — €44,328
Personal Secretary	1	€18,741 — €36,160
Civilian Driver	2	€26,468

Minister of State, Deputy Roche's office:
Job Description	Number	Salary scale
Personal Assistant	1	€37,520 — €44,328
Civilian Driver	2	€26,468

Overtime, travel and subsistence expenses are paid in accordance with normal Civil Service regulations.

Arms Trade.

Richard Bruton

Question:

192 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his proposals to advance the case for stricter controls on small arms through international fora in which he participates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8394/04]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

Ireland is fully supportive of the principle of having strict controls on small arms and is working within the European Union to address the need for such controls. The export of arms from EU countries must conform to the EU code of conduct on arms exports which establishes criteria to control such exports. Ireland was actively involved in the establishment of this politically binding code which lists the factors to be taken into account when deciding whether to allow an export of military goods. These include respect for human rights, the internal situation in the country of final destination, and the preservation of regional peace, security and stability. Discussions are under way during our EU Presidency on the possible reinforcement of the status of the code of conduct, for example, by its transformation into an EU Common Position, which would be legally binding. Ireland supports such a reinforcement of the code.

The European Council adopted a joint action on the EU's contribution to combating the destabilising accumulation and uncontrolled spread of small arms and light weapons in July 2002 which is concerned primarily with enhancing efforts by EU member states to build consensus in the relevant regional and international fora, such as the UN and the OSCE, to prevent the further accumulation of small arms and to ensure that the EU's arms controls are as effective as possible. More recently, the European Union adopted a Common Position on arms brokering, in June 2003, requiring member states to introduce ad hoc legislation to control the activities of brokers. Ireland has contributed within the framework of the OSCE in developing best practices guidelines which will provide useful common standards in this area. The OSCE published a handbook of best practices on small arms and light weapons last December. Work is ongoing within the OSCE on issues such as end-use certificates, brokering and man portable air defence systems. Ireland will continue to participate fully in this forum and other international fora to promote the objective of strengthening arms controls globally.

There is widespread recognition in the global community that illicit trading of small arms must be addressed in a multilateral context. In July 2001, the United Nations convened a conference on small arms to consider how this could be most effectively addressed. A programme of action to prevent, combat and eradicate the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons in all its aspects was agreed at that conference. The programme of action is a politically binding document which includes measures for implementation and international co-operation and assistance and provides a procedure for follow-up, including biennial meetings to assess progress in implementation. The first such biennial meeting took place in New York in July 2003 and focused on the presentation of national experiences in the field. A review conference will take place in 2006.

Ireland also welcomes the recent recommendations of a UN group of experts on the feasibility of a multilateral instrument to enable states to identify and trace, in a timely and reliable manner, illicit small arms and light weapons. The first substantive discussion by the working group established to examine this issue will take place in New York in June. In our EU Presidency capacity we must prepare and co-ordinate the EU positions for this session. While the nature of such an instrument will be the subject of negotiation, we together with our EU partners, have stated our preference for a legally binding measure.

Parental Rights.

Pat Breen

Question:

193 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Clare regarding the legal rights of a separated father; if he intends to act on it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8449/04]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

A reply has been issued to the correspondence received from the person referred to by the Deputy. While my Department is sympathetic to the situation of this person, the assistance that the Department can give is limited. If the person wishes to pursue this matter, he will have to do so through legal channels and he has been advised to consult his legal advisers on this point.

Northern Ireland Issues.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

194 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs what assistance the Government will offer to the Conway Mill Preservation Trust development in west Belfast. [8560/04]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

My Department's reconciliation fund was established in 1982 to assist organisations involved in reconciliation work and in developing a better understanding between people in both parts of Ireland and between Ireland and Britain. Since its establishment, it has funded a wide variety of organisations working in the field of reconciliation in Northern Ireland, between North and South and between these islands.

The Department welcomes applications from organisations whose activities may qualify for consideration under the criteria governing the fund. All applications are considered by an interdepartmental advisory committee on the basis of published eligibility criteria and the committee then makes its recommendations to me. In 2003, Conway Mill Preservation Trust Limited applied for grant aid of £300,000 sterling to the reconciliation fund. I regret that, on account of the constraints arising from the numerous applications received and the limited resources available, it was not possible on that occasion to provide financial support to this application. A letter informing the organisation of this decision was issued in August 2003. It is open to Conway Mill Preservation Trust Limited to apply again to the reconciliation fund.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

195 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access services of his Department. [8641/04]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

The Department of Foreign Affairs is responsible for Vote 28-Department of Foreign Affairs, and Vote 29-International Co-operation. Details of the funding allocated by my Department for services for persons with disabilities in 2003 and 2004 are as follows Vote 28: in 2003, the communicating Europe initiative, which is administered by the Department for Foreign Affairs, allocated €10,018.11 in funding to the Disability Federation of Ireland for a series of ten EU information workshops for DFI members in locations throughout the country. The workshops were aimed at people with disabilities who wished to learn about the European Union, its history and institutions, and to review how the EU impacts on the lives of people with disabilities.

On 16 July, 2003, an interpreter was engaged to conduct a meeting between the personnel officer and a member of staff who is hearing impaired. The cost of this service was €101.34. On 3 March 2004, sign interpreters were engaged for a PMDS course at a cost of €426.72. The video production company making an induction video for new staff has been requested to include a sign language version. This will cost approximately €2,500. The Department's website and the EU Presidency website meet recommended standards for accessibility. The Department's building and refurbishment programmes give priority to provision of services and facilities for those with disabilities.

Vote 29 covers civil society funding. Development Cooperation Ireland supports specific projects and programmes for people in the developing world with disabilities through a variety of funding schemes and mechanisms, including the multi-annual programme scheme, the annual block grants and project co-financing. For various reasons, it is difficult to identify precisely how much of DCI funding in 2003 and 2004 is specifically targeted at disabled people, for example, certain programmes may address education, health or water and sanitation needs in communities with high incidences of river-blindness or landmine injury, but it is not possible to differentiate between the beneficiaries of such programmes in many cases. However, funding in the region of €300,000 was allocated for projects addressing the specific needs of disabled communities under the non-governmental organisation co-financing scheme and the block grants arrangements. Under the block grant arrangements for 2004, Action Aid Ireland proposes as one of its broad themes to focus on physical and intellectual disability.

Examples of projects or programmes specifically targeting disabled groups which have received DCI support include €88,000 allocated in June 2003 for the development of a school for the deaf in Nigeria. Under the block grant arrangements, allocations were made to World Vision DCI provided €65,000 to an integrated education project for children with special needs in Armenia and Action Aid Ireland gave €25,000 to the construction of an orthopaedic workshop in Nepal. Under the in-country micro project scheme, just more than €80,000 was provided to three projects in India supporting autism, physically handicapped and leprosy projects, a river-blindness control programme in Nigeria, support to a society for the mentally handicapped in Lesotho and occupational therapy services support to enable children with disabilities to realise their rights in Tanzania.

The United Nations Development Programme received funding of €57,340 from the human rights and democratisation scheme in 2003 for its strengthening the rights protection of the disabled project in China. That project is intended to lay foundations in policy-making for relevant government departments in China and to improve the mechanisms providing legal assistance to persons with disabilities. Under the missionary development fund, which provides co-funding to projects implemented through the Irish missionary orders, funding in the region of €146,000 was allocated for projects addressing the specific needs of disabled communities in 2003 and 2004. Examples of projects aimed at groups for those with disabilities include €50,000 support to Nkokonjeru Providence Cheshire Home in Uganda through the Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa. Support of €58,769 was also provided through the Vincentians order to a primary school for deaf pupils in Nigeria.

The Agency for Personal Services Overseas personnel co-funding expenditure for disability under Vote 29, subhead C is as follows:

Agency	Country	Skill	Amount in Euro
Health Action Overseas	Romania	Two occupational Therapists	30,000
Irish Red Cross	Iraq	Ortho-prosthetist	7,500
Skillshare International	Tanzania	Two occupational Therapists	30,000
VSO	Thailand	Special Education Teacher	15,000
	Namibia	Teacher Trainer of Hearing Impaired	15,000
	Philippines		15,000
	Vietnam	Special Education	15,000
	Ghana	Occupational Therapist	15,000
	Sri-Lanka	Disability Careers Adviser	15,000
	India	Physiotherapist	15,000
Medical Missionaries of Mary	Brazil	Nurse for the Disabled	15,000
	Honduras	Literacy trainer	15,000
Sisters of St Louis	Nigeria	Co-ordinator of Leprosy education Programme	15,000
John Grooms	Bangladesh	Speech Therapist	7,500
	Bangladesh	Occupational Therapist	9,000
Total			234,000

DCI's humanitarian assistance is aimed at victims of natural or man-made disasters in the poorer countries of the world. Those with physical or intellectual disabilities are often among the most vulnerable groups receiving such assistance. Under the DCI partnership agreement with the International Labour Organisation, funding has been allocated for an ILO programme aimed at capacity building for female entrepreneurs with disabilities in developing countries. Funding for this initiative, which focuses mainly on east Africa, has amounted to more than $789,860 from subhead B of the DCI Vote. The Government also supports a second programme with the ILO that provides advice and advocacy at government level for the employment of people with disabilities in developing countries. Funding of more than $600,860 has been provided for this from Subhead B. The timeframe for both programmes is from 2002 to 2005. The ILO provides information and advice to governments, employers' organisations and workers' organisations on policy, legislation and programmes relevant to the employment of people with disabilities. The programmes also review the impact of legislation in these countries regarding this matter and advise the national governments accordingly.

Since 2003, DCI has delivered €2.89 million for landmine action in the developing world. Of this, €2.5 million was provided through a partnership programme with the Halo Trust for the period 2003 to 2004 and further funding of €390,000 was delivered to Handicap International, a non-governmental organisation which assists victims of mines and explosive remnants of war to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

Much of the assistance DCI gives to countries of the Balkans and of the Commonwealth of Independent States is targeted at minority groups, including people with disabilities. Importance is also attached to awareness raising and to an advocacy role for disabled people and the organisations which represent them so that they can better influence public policy. In 2003, DCI provided funding of €217,336, the second part of a two year grant, to the international non-government charitable organisation, Catholic Relief Services, for a project for disabled people in Serbia. The project involved training for disabled people, for personal assistants for them and for organisations representing the disabled, the objective being to enable them to lead independent lives and participate more fully in their communities. DCI gave a grant of €18,881 in 2003 to the Bulgarian Association for People with Disabilities for equipment for a rehabilitation centre for people with intellectual difficulties. No funds have, as yet, been allocated in 2004 to projects specifically for people with disabilities.

In 2003, DCI contributed €250,000 to the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights to support its work for a thematic cluster that includes disability as well as gender and HIV and AIDS. This contribution was part of our 2003 voluntary contribution to the OHCHR which comes under Vote 29, subhead E. In 2004, we contributed €2.539 million to OHCHR. DCI will decide on the distribution of this contribution across various OHCHR activities, in consultation with the OHCHR. We intend to earmark a percentage of this contribution for the same thematic cluster reflecting the Government's strong commitment to these issues. In 2003, a grant of €5,000 was given to Gulluddene Unit for mentally retarded children for water tanks under the in-country programme in Uganda.

Overseas Development Aid.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

196 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the economic situation in Kosovo, its population, GDP, income per capita, and rate of unemployment; and the assistance that is being given by Ireland towards its economic development. [8813/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs (Mr. Kitt)

Despite progress in recent years under the administration of the UN mission in Kosovo, the situation remains tense. Together with our EU partners, the Government fully support the special representative of the UN Secretary General, Mr. Harri Holkeri, in his work to ensure the implementation of Security Council Resolution 1244.

The EU is committed to a stable future for a secure, democratic and multi-ethnic Kosovo with its place in Europe. Through the EU pillar of UNMIK, the EU has particular responsibility for reconstruction and economic development in Kosovo. In the four years to end of 2003, the EU has provided almost €960 million in assistance to Kosovo.

Notwithstanding significant international assistance since 1999, the economy of Kosovo remains underdeveloped. Given the political circumstances there, statistical data are unreliable. The last census figures, dating from March 1991, show that the population then was 1,956,196. However, many ethnic Albanians boycotted this census. The Statistical Office of Kosovo estimates the current population to be still some 1.9 million. One third of the population is under 15 years of age, and more than 50% is under 25. According to the UNDP, 70% of those aged between 16 and 24 are unemployed while overall unemployment is estimated to be between 49% and 57%. Gross domestic product in 2001 was estimated to be under €1.2 billion, rising to almost €1.3 billion in 2003. On that basis, average per capita income in 2003 was about €684.

The Government, through Development Cooperation Ireland, has provided €950,000 in direct bilateral assistance in the past two years in support of health, education, employment generation and democratisation. Assistance has also been provided to the UNMIK office of missing persons and forensics which, through its work on the identification of remains, is helping to address one of the most sensitive post-conflict issues, and to UNMIK's refugee return programme.

In addition, Ireland funds the regional activities of multilateral agencies active in the western Balkans, giving in excess of €550,000 in assistance in 2003. We also provide direct support for the privatisation process in Kosovo through grant assistance channelled through the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. We support the efforts of the OECD and the stability pact for south-eastern Europe to encourage foreign investment and facilitate trade.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

197 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the cost to the Exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9182/04]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen)

During the course of the Irish Presidency, the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, Ministers, Ministers of State and senior officials from many Departments are required to host meetings in Ireland as well as in Brussels and other countries throughout the world. Usually hospitality, by way of a lunch, dinner or reception, is extended during these meetings. There are, in addition, many other bilateral meetings held during the EU Presidency context over the course of the six months. However, in view of the number and scale of events, I hope the Deputy will understand that it is not possible to provide the number and status of those invited to attend all of the functions. Following is a copy of the calendar for Council meetings in Brussels and for meetings in Ireland and a list of the summits at which the Taoiseach will represent the European Union.

With regard to the security aspects for meetings held in Ireland, these are a matter for the Garda Síochána However, I can confirm that Garda escorts are only provided where it has been deemed necessary for security reasons.

Invitations to meetings and functions issue in different ways. To date, invitations have been issued by post, e-mail and through Irish embassies abroad, as well as those embassies accredited to Ireland, for onward transmission to the appropriate authorities. It is not possible at this stage to provide a figure for the total cost to the exchequer of hosting Presidency events.

Summit meetings at which the Taoiseach will represent the European Union

Date	Meeting	Location
18 March	EU — Canada Meeting	Canada
28/29 May	EU — LAC	Guadalajara, Mexico
End May	EU — Russia	Moscow
22 June	EU — Japan	Tokyo
26 June	EU — US	To be decided

Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union
January/June, 2004
Day	January	February	March
Thu	1 New Year’s Day
Fri	2
Sat	3
Sun	4	1
Mon	5	2	1
Tue	6 Government/Commission meeting PSC	3 PSC	2 ENVIRONMENT PSC
Wed	7	4 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1	3 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1
Thu	8 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES (poss) COREPER 2	5	4 EMPLOYMENT, SOCIAL POLICY, HEALTH AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
Fri	9 PSC COREPER 1	6 PSC COREPER 1	5 EMPLOYMENT, SOCIAL POLICY, HEALTH AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS PSC
Sat	10	7	6
Sun	11	8	7
Mon	12	9 Eurogroup	8 TRANSPORT, TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND ENERGY Eurogroup
Tue	13 PSC	10 ECOFIN PSC	9 ECOFIN TRANSPORT, TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND ENERGY PSC
Wed	14 COREPER 1	11 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1	10 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1
Thu	15 COREPER 2	12	11 COMPETITIVENESS
Fri	16 Employment and Social Policy (Informal) PSC	13 PSC COREPER 1	12 PSC COREPER 1
Sat	17 Employment and Social Policy (Informal)	14	13
Sun	18	15	14
Mon	19 Eurogroup	16	15
Tue	20 ECOFIN PSC	17 PSC	16 PSC Conciliation Committee
Wed	21 COREPER 1	18 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1	17 COREPER 1
Thu	22 Justice and Home Affairs (Informal) COREPER 2 PSC	19 JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS PSC	18 COREPER 2 PSC
Fri	23 Justice and Home Affairs (Informal) COREPER 1	20 JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS COREPER 1	19 COREPER 1
Sat	24	21	20
Sun	25	22	21
Mon	26 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES	23 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS	22 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES
Tue	27 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS PSC Conciliation Committee	24 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES PSC Conciliation Committee	23 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES PSC
Wed	28 COREPER 1	25 COREPER 1	24 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1
Thu	29 COREPER 2	26 COREPER 2 EDUCATION, YOUTH AND CULTURE	25 EUROPEAN COUNCIL, BRUSSELS
Fri	30 PSC COREPER 1	27 PSC COREPER 1	26 EUROPEAN COUNCIL, BRUSSELS
Sat	31	28	27
Sun		29	28
Mon			29
Tue			30 PSC JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS
Wed			31 COREPER 1

April	May	June
		1 EMPLOYMENT, SOCIAL POLICY, HEALTH AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS Eurogroup
		2 ECOFIN EMPLOYMENT, SOCIAL POLICY, HEALTH AND CONSUMER AFFAIRS
1 COREPER 2		3 COREPER 2
2 PSC COREPER 1 Economic and Financial Affairs (Informal)		4 PSC COREPER 1
3 Economic and Financial Affairs (Informal)	1	5
4 Economic and Financial Affairs (Informal)	2	6
5 Defence Ministers (Informal)	3	7
6 PSC Defence Ministers (Informal)	4 PSC	8 JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS PSC
7 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1	5 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1	9 COREPER 1
8	6	10 TRANSPORT, TELECOMMUNI-CATIONS AND ENERGY European Parliament Elections COREPER 2 PSC
9 GOOD FRIDAY	7 PSC	11 TRANSPORT, TELECOMMUNI-CATIONS AND ENERGY European Parliament Elections
10 Easter Saturday	8	12 European Parliament Elections
11 Easter Sunday	9 Schuman Day Agriculture (Informal)	13 European Parliament Elections
12 Easter Monday	10 Agriculture (Informal) Eurogroup	14 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS / COREPER 1
13	11 ECOFIN PSC Agriculture (Informal)	15 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS
14	12 COREPER 1	16 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1
15	13 COREPER 2 PSC	17 EUROPEAN COUNCIL, BRUSSELS
16 Gymnich	14 COREPER 1 Environment (Informal)	18 EUROPEAN COUNCIL, BRUSSELS
17 Gymnich	15 Environment (Informal)	19
18	16 Environment (Informal)	20
19	17 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS, including Defence Ministers COMPETITIVENESS	21 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES
20 PSC	18 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS, including Defence Ministers COMPETITIVENESS PSC	22 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES PSC
21 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1	19 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1	23 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1
22 COREPER 2 PSC	20 Ascension Thursday	24
23 COREPER 1	21 Bridging day	25 COREPER 1
24	22	26
25	23	27
26 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS, including Development Ministers PSC	24 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES	28 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS(poss) ENVIRONMENT
27 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS, including development Ministers PSC	25 AGRICULTURE AND FISHERIES PSC	29 GENERAL AFFAIRS AND EXTERNAL RELATIONS (poss) PSC Environment
28 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1	26 COREPER 2 / COREPER 1	30 COREPER 1 / COREPER 2
29 JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS	27 EDUCATION, YOUTH AND CULTURE
30 JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS PSC COREPER 1	28 EDUCATION, YOUTH AND CULTURE PSC / COREPER 1
	29
	30
	31 Whit Monday holiday

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

198 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Science the estimate of the cost to the State of the indemnity agreement in relation to abuse in institutions run by religious orders. [9114/04]

Grants under my Department's higher education grant scheme and vocational education committees scholarship scheme are tenable in respect of full-time undergraduate courses of not less than two years' duration pursued in a university or third level institution which is maintained or assisted by recurrent grants from public funds in another EU member state. With regard to colleges of further and higher education in the UK and Northern Ireland, generally speaking, an approved course means a course at higher national diploma, HND, level or higher. As the course referred to by the Deputy does not meet the definition of an approved course for the purposes of the schemes, it cannot be recognised for grant assistance.

The terms and conditions of the schemes are reviewed by my Department annually and revised where necessary. Additional courses may be approved under the schemes only where they meet the prescribed definition of an approved course.

Schools Building Projects.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

202 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science if the building of schools by public private partnerships has been an economically sound decision; if the running costs of these schools has decreased or increased in view of the fact that these schools have been operating for more than a year; and if he will commission a report to quantify exactly the overall cost-benefit of these public private partnership agreements for schools. [8257/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The Department's interest in participating in the PPP pilot programme arose primarily for four reasons: to take school principals away from running buildings and thereby allow them concentrate on their core educational and management functions; to test value for money of school provision over a longer period than construction; to get new ideas on school design through an output-based approach; and to see better usage of school buildings outside school hours.

The contract for the first pilot education PPP in Ireland, a bundle of five post-primary schools, was signed in November 2001. Construction of the schools was completed by the end of December 2002, four of the schools ahead of schedule while the fifth was signed-off as scheduled. The speedy delivery of infrastructure is one of the attractions of this form of procurement. The private sector is paid on the basis of a combination of asset usage, availability and performance during the life of the project — in this case 25 years — and is not paid upfront for construction. Under PPPs, the private sector is required to take a stake in the whole-life cycle of the building, aligning responsibility for operation and maintenance with responsibility for design and construction.

The cost of operating the schools is determined by the project agreement. This provides for a review of the annual operating costs of the schools and allows for an inflationary increase in this element of the unitary payment. My Department is pleased with the project and is in the process of undertaking an initial evaluation of the project to date. As part of this evaluation, regular meetings are held with the management of each of the schools to allow for updates on the operation of the individual schools.

My Department provides grants to post-primary school to meet the running costs of the schools. These grants have been significantly reduced in respect of each of the PPP schools.

Special Educational Needs.

Finian McGrath

Question:

203 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if assistance will be given to pupils and staff at Scoil Caitríona primary school, Coolcock, Dublin, in their efforts to obtain a resource teachers and special needs assistant to improve the education service for children with special needs. [8258/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I can confirm that my Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy. The school has the services of one full-time special needs assistant, SNA, four part-time SNAs, one full-time resource teacher and one part-time resource teacher.

SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are being considered. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year. The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the national educational psychological service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03, which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

The arrangements for processing applications received after the 31 August 2003 will be considered in the context of the outcome of discussions on a weighted system of allocation of resource teaching support. A further communication will be sent to schools in this regard.

Summer Works Scheme.

Dan Neville

Question:

204 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science the schools in County Limerick which will obtain assistance through the summer work scheme by his Department. [8259/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The list of successful applicants under the summer works scheme is published on my Department's website at www.education.ie. Contact will be made with the school authorities shortly with details of the works approved.

Early Childhood Education.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

205 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has verified the need for early start school places in Jobstown, Tallaght, Dublin 24; if his attention has been drawn to the serious demand in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8293/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Any decision to expand or extend the early start pre-school pilot project is being considered in the context of a broad review of all initiatives to tackle educational disadvantage which is underway in my Department.

Schools Building Projects.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

206 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans for the provision of further school places in the Tallaght area to deal with the additional house building approved by South Dublin County Council and which is now in various phases of development; if his attention has been drawn to the urgent need to deal with this challenge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8294/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Officials of my Department's school planning section meet on a regular basis with the planning department of South Dublin County Council with a view to identifying the need, if any, for additional educational provision and reserving sites for schools where required. A decision on the provision of new schools in the Tallaght area will involve further consultations with the local authority regarding the rate and likely timescale of housing developments, together with an ongoing assessment of the capacity of existing schools in the area to meet anticipated demand. My Department will continue to monitor developments in the Tallaght area and any needs identified will be addressed by initially increasing capacity at existing schools where appropriate or through the provision of new schools as necessary.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

207 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of the new community school in Dingle, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8305/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that a new school building project for Dingle community school is due to proceed to tender and construction as part of the 2004 school building programme.

The indicative timescale in the programme for this project proceeding to tender is the second quarter of 2004. The tendering process for this project has commenced with the pre-qualification of suitable contractors. The school authorities will be kept advised of developments.

Departmental Staff.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

208 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of staff appointed by him from outside the Civil Service since the general election in 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8331/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Details of the number of staff appointed by me, from outside the Civil Service to my office and that of the Minister of State, Deputy de Valera, are as follows:

Office of the Minister
Name	Position
James Fegan	Special Adviser
Margaret Conway	Personal Assistant
Una Grehan	Personal Secretary
Grace Cappock	Press Officer

Office of the Minister of State
Name	Position
Mary McNamara	Personal Assistant (July 2002-February 2003)
Seamus Browne	Personal Assistant (April — June 2003)
Mairead Collins	Personal Secretary
John Flanagan	Civilian Driver
Frank O’Sullivan	Civilian Driver
PJ Higgins	Civilian Driver

The total cost of salaries and expenses for these staff from July 2002 to date is €642,066.08. Department of Finance guidelines for appointments in ministerial private offices have been adhered to in all cases.

Special Educational Needs.

John Deasy

Question:

209 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in appointing one-to-one teaching for a person (details supplied) in County Waterford who has been assessed and approved for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8341/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I can confirm that my Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy, including an application for the pupil in question.

SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are currently being considered. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year. The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the national educational psychological service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03 which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

The arrangements for processing applications received after the 31 August 2003, including the application for the pupil in question, will be considered in the context of the outcome of discussions on a weighted system of allocation of resource teaching support. A further communication will be sent to schools in this regard.

Early School Leavers.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

210 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to a matter regarding a college (details supplied); if he will consider reinstating the stay in school retention initiative at this college; if not, if he will continue funding at current levels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8342/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Any decision to expand or extend the school completion programme is being considered in the context of a broad review of all such initiatives to tackle educational disadvantage and early school leaving, which is currently under way in my Department.

Consultation Projects.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

211 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the members appointed by him to a board to examine the future of Irish education; the salaries or expenses payable to these members in the course of their duties on this board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8368/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I assume that the Deputy is referring to the YES consultation process, which is underway at present. The purpose of the process is to facilitate a wide public discussion-debate on the issues to be faced in the framing of future education policy. I am encouraging students and parents in all socio-economic circumstances and education providers, along with employers and other groups with a more oblique interest in future education policy, to contribute. The result of the process will be a report that will outline the issues raised by those who have participated in or contributed to the process during the year, which should provide a blueprint against which future education policy can be framed. The secretariat for the process is also producing reports on individual elements of the process as these occur. At present, reports on the public meetings that have taken place as part of the process can be viewed on www.youreducation.ie.

I have not appointed members of a board to examine the future of education in Ireland. Instead, I have set up this process to facilitate public debate and discussion. The Educational Research Centre, ERC, in Drumcondra is providing the independent secretariat that both manages and reports on the information and contributions being gathered through the process. The ERC will require funding of about €60,000 to purchase the resources it needs to undertake this task.

School Accommodation.

Seán Crowe

Question:

212 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will make funding available for the provision of a small prefab to be used both as a library and for use by the resource teacher of Gaelscoil Barra, Faussagh Road, Cabra, Dublin, which is without accommodation. [8369/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

An application has been received from Gaelscoil Bharra for grant-aid for the provision of a temporary room to accommodate a resource teacher. Officials within my Department are assessing and prioritising applications for temporary accommodation. I intend shortly to publish details of all temporary accommodation projects that will proceed in 2004.

Special Educational Needs.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

213 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science when resource hours for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford, who was diagnosed in 2002 with dyslexia, will be allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8370/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I can confirm that my Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy, including an application for the pupil in question.

SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003, including this application, are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year. The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the national educational psychological service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03 which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

School Accommodation.

Seán Power

Question:

214 Mr. S. Power asked the Minister for Education and Science if a decision has been made on the future use of lands and buildings adjoining Gaelscoil Cill Dara, Curragh, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8373/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

My Department's school planning section is currently assessing the need for accommodation for permanent education provision in the Newbridge area. This assessment will involve a review of the lands and buildings adjoining Gaelscoil Cill Dara.

Schools Refurbishment.

Seán Crowe

Question:

215 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide funding to upgrade the heating and security measures, including consideration of the installation of closed circuit television cameras, at St. Francis junior and senior schools, Priorswood, Dublin 17. [8378/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The scope of the works required at the schools referred to by the Deputy are appropriate for consideration under the summer works scheme which was announced in December last. The closing date for applications under the scheme was 30 January 2004. I note that the schools in question did not make applications under this scheme.

Subject to a review of the summer works scheme 2004, it is planned to invite applications for the 2005 scheme later this year. Full details will be posted on my Department's website at www.education.ie as soon as possible.

Post-Leaving Certificate Review.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

216 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science the elements of the McIver report he has put in place; his views on whether the PLC colleges are giving a tremendous service and that the review initiated by his Department can no longer be ignored; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8382/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The post-leaving certificate review was commissioned to examine the sector and make recommendations as necessary regarding the organisational, support, development, technical and administrative structures and resources required in schools with large scale post-leaving certificate, PLC, provision, having regard to good practice in related areas across the system and in other countries. The final report was completed in April 2003.

The recommendations of the report are wide-ranging and encompass proposals that extend beyond PLC provision. The report poses considerable challenges in regard to the shaping of structures for the delivery of further and adult education into the future. The recommendations are being considered at departmental level with a view to addressing the priority issues within the context of overall educational policy and provision.

During 2003, officials in my Department held discussions with the management and staff representative interests in the sector to examine their respective priorities and to consider issues surrounding a number of the recommendations of the report, having regard to the implications for other areas of the education system. Discussions involving all the relevant interests with regard to prioritisation of the recommendations will continue as necessary in the coming period.

Pension Provisions.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

217 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if the new proposal regarding the retirement age for national teachers will apply to the final year students in Mary Immaculate training college, Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8383/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2004 provides for the raising of the minimum pension age of most new entrants to the public service, including teachers, to age 65. It also provides for the removal of the compulsory retirement age for most new entrants to the public service, including teachers. A detailed definition of new entrant is given in section 2 of the Bill.

The definition provides, broadly, that persons entering employment in the public service on or after 1 April 2004 will be regarded as new entrants. The new arrangements do not apply to public servants who are serving on 31 March 2004. A broad scope has been given to the term "serving" in the context of the Bill. The general principle is that anyone who has an employment relationship with the public service as of 31 March 2004 will not be deemed to be a new entrant.

I cannot comment on the position of individual students. The application to them of the proposed new terms would depend on whether or not they fall within the definition of new entrant if they take up employment in the public service.

Special Educational Needs.

Emmet Stagg

Since 1997 my Department provides the grant scheme for minor works to all primary schools including the school referred to by the Deputy. Details of the scheme are available on my Department's website at www.education.ie and works covered by the scheme are improvements to school buildings and grounds such as re-surfacing of school yard.

School Enrolment.

It is proposed that a further cohort of schools will introduce the revised syllabus in September 2004. The relevant circular inviting schools to participate in phase two is being prepared in my Department and will issue to all post-primary schools in the coming weeks. It is not possible to indicate at this time the number of schools which will be involved in phase two. This will be decided when the applications have been received and plans for inservice provision have been prepared. It is envisaged that the junior cycle physical education support programme will continue during the 2004-05 school year.

School Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

226 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will increase the size of the general purposes room in the proposed extension of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare in line with the extra classroom accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8477/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

A GP-PE room of 200 m2 is provided for in the proposed extension to this school. However, my Department has no objection to the school increasing the size of the proposed GP-PE room, provided the additional costs are funded locally.

Special Educational Needs.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

227 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the application for resource hours for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8479/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I can confirm that my Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy, including an application for the pupil in question. SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all of these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the national educational psychological service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03 which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

The arrangements for processing applications received after the 31 August 2003 will be considered in the context of the outcome of discussions on a weighted system of allocation of resource teaching support. A further communication will be sent to schools in this regard.

Finian McGrath

Question:

228 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if urgent assistance will be given to a school (details supplied) in Dublin 14 in its efforts to develop resource services and provide special needs assistants for its pupils; and if this matter will be given priority. [8490/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I can confirm that my Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy. The school in question has the services of three full-time and one part-time special needs assistants, two full-time resource teachers and one shared learning support teacher.

SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all of these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the national educational psychological service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03 which issued in September, 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

The arrangements for processing applications received after the 31 August 2003 will be considered in the context of the outcome of discussions on a weighted system of allocation of resource teaching support. A further communication will be sent to schools in this regard.

School Enrolment.

Tom Hayes

Question:

229 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will address the capping of numbers attending a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary due to the consequences and hardship for many families in the locality. [8508/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The school planning section of my Department has received an application to remove the enrolment cap in place at the school referred to by the Deputy. The school planning section of my Department, in conjunction with the local district inspector for the area, is carrying out a review of the enrolment capping policy at this school. As part of this examination an extensive review of the enrolment situation in all primary schools in the Clonmel area and neighbouring parish is taking place. It is expected that this review will be completed shortly. A decision on this application will be conveyed to the school authorities as soon as possible.

Schools Building Projects.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

230 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the stage the application for a new school (details supplied) in County Clare is at; the reason for the delay in the provision of the new school; if he intends it to proceed by public private partnership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8526/04]

The various stages of architectural planning for large-scale building projects are set out in the frequently asked questions, FAQ, section of the 2004 school building programme which is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie.

While most of the projects in the 2004 school building programme are at an advanced stage of architectural planning, there are over 15 projects in the very early stages of architectural planning that are earmarked for progression through architectural planning and on to construction as part of the programme.

These projects mainly arise in rapidly developing areas and are listed in the programme as part of my Department's response to meeting urgent demand for school places in these areas. To meet the indicative timescales set out in the programme, my Department is using innovative methods to deliver these projects, including a design and build contract, combining of stages of architectural planning for projects, generic designs and various forms of devolved authority.

The expansion of the devolved initiatives that were introduced in 2003 to over 90 further projects enables these schools to progress their projects themselves through architectural planning and on to construction without reference to my Department.

Departmental Schemes.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

234 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide finance for the following works at a school (details supplied) pending the building of a new school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8530/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The scope of works required at the school referred to by the Deputy are appropriate for consideration under the summer works scheme. While the school's application under the summer works scheme for 2004 was unsuccessful, it is open to the school's management authority to reapply for the key priority works required at the school as part of the 2005 summer works scheme, details of which will be announced later this year.

Class Sizes.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

235 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science when he will implement his promise to send an inspector to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare to address the problem of large classes, two of which consist of 33 boys; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8536/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The relevant Department officials met the school authorities on 19 February 2004 to discuss a range of issues, including the issue raised by the Deputy.

Schools Building Projects.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

236 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the need for a second level school in the Laytown area of County Meath in view of the rapidly expanding population in Laytown and Bettystown and also in areas such as Drogheda where young persons from Laytown and Bettystown have traditionally accessed second level places; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8537/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

As I recently announced, over the remainder of this year a new school planning model involving published area development plans will be piloted in five areas. Included in the pilot scheme is the south Louth and mid-Meath region, which covers the area referred to by the Deputy.

The purpose of this new approach to school planning is to ensure that in future, the provision of school infrastructure will be decided only after a transparent consultation process. In this regard, parents, trustees, sponsors of prospective new schools and all interested parties in a locality will have the opportunity to have their voices heard in the process. Following the consultation process, individual plans will set out the blueprint for schools' development in an area covering a period of up to ten years. In this way, the education needs at both primary and post-primary levels in the Laytown area will be assessed as part of the development plan to be drawn up for that area.

School Staffing.

Pat Carey

Question:

237 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will examine the application by a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11 for additional teaching resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8562/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The day to day management of universities and institutes of technology, including library opening hours, are matters for the institutions themselves. My Department does not have a function in such matters.

Some €630.5 million has been provided in the 2004 Estimates for universities and HEA designated institutions. I have no plans to provide additional funding to the sector this year. Overall funding, capital and current, for the higher education sector will stand at €1.48 billion in 2004. From 1997 to 2004, there has been an increase of almost €300 million in the recurrent provision to the university sector. This represents an increase of approximately 90% over this period. This is up €631 million or 74% on 1997 levels.

I am aware that institutions will be challenged in the short term by the constraints on recurrent Exchequer funding placed on them in 2004, having regard to overall cost pressures. I appreciate that individual institutions are required to find economies and to become more streamlined in some of their operations to reconcile available budgets with pre-existing demands and commitments. This must be viewed, however, in the context of overall increases in investment in higher education over recent years and the Government's longer-term strategic objective for excellence in the sector.

Site Acquisitions.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

241 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the money set aside in his Department in 2004 for site acquisition for primary and post-primary schools; the amount spent to date and the amount remaining to be spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8586/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Some €32 million has been allocated for the acquisition of sites for primary and post-primary schools during 2004. The Office of Public Works manages site acquisitions on behalf of my Department and to date a total of €7 million has been transferred to the OPW account. This leaves a balance of €25 million.

Schools Building Projects.

Paddy McHugh

Question:

242 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science if an application from a school (details supplied) in County Galway for grant aid towards construction of two classrooms will be approved; when funding will be made available; the amount of funding that will be allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8609/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

An application for grant aid towards additional accommodation has been received from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers. When publishing the 2004 school building programme, I outlined that my strategy going forward will be grounded in capital investment based on multi-annual allocations. My officials are reviewing all projects which were not authorised to proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme, with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual school building programme from 2005 and I expect to be in a position to make further announcements on this matter in the course of the year. The application from the school referred to will be considered in this regard.

Seán Power

Question:

243 Mr. S. Power asked the Minister for Education and Science if agreement has been reached on the extension at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8610/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Proposals for the delivery of approximately 575m2 of modular accommodation this year have issued to the management authorities of Naas CBS. I understand that the management authorities have agreed in principle to the proposals.

Special Educational Needs.

David Stanton

Question:

244 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access services of his Department. [8642/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Any application for special educational needs, SEN, supports received in my Department will be considered in the context of the criteria outlined in the relevant Department circulars and the existing level of SEN resources already available in the school.

My Department's commitment to supporting children with special educational needs within the primary school system is reflected in the significant growth in investment in special needs provision in recent years. This is illustrated by the following details. The number of learning support teachers in the primary school system has increased from 1,302 in 1998 to 1,531 at present. The annual salary cost of these teachers is approximately €54 million. The number of resource teachers has increased from 104 in 1998 to more than 2,500 currently. The annual salary cost of these teachers is estimated at over €75 million. The number of special needs assistants within the primary system has grown from 300 in 1998 to 4,319 full-time and a further 1,353 part-time posts. The salary cost of this service in 2003 was €103.56 million and is estimated at €120 million for 2004. The allocation for part-time tuition services for children with special educational needs has been increased from €24.27 million in 2003 to €31.7 million in 2004. Funding towards special equipment within the primary school system has increased from €2.12 million in 2003 to €3 million in 2004.

The resources that have been and that continue to be allocated by my Department represent real and substantial improvements in special education services. They provide concrete evidence of the Government's commitment to build on the unprecedented development of special education services.

Departmental Schemes.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

245 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason an application by a school (details supplied) in County Cork under the summer works scheme has not been approved; and when approval for these works is likely to be forthcoming. [8721/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Each unsuccessful applicant under the summer works scheme 2004 will receive a letter from my Department outlining the reason works were not approved. The 2005 scheme will be announced later this year.

Schools Building Projects.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

246 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application by a school (details supplied) in County Galway; when phase 1 of this school will commence; if phase 1 will be included in the small schools devolved initiative scheme; if so, when his Department will grant approval for this project; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this school will increase from a five class teacher to a six class teacher school in September 2004; if this attention has further been drawn to the fact that there are only two proper classrooms in the school, together with two sub-standard classrooms and a pre-fab for the other three teachers; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that in September 2004 another class will have to use a pre-fab, that the full-time resource teacher is currently housed in a pre-fab and that the shared learning support teacher based in the school works from a small kitchen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8722/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

250 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has considered the application for resource and special needs assistant hours for a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if he intends to agree to the request. [8748/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

My Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy, including an application for the pupil in question. SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003, including this application, are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all of these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the national educational psychological service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03, which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

Damien English

Question:

251 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will allocate a person (details supplied) in County Meath one hour per day with the resource teacher in a school (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8749/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

My Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy, including an application for the pupil in question. SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all of these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03, which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

The arrangements for processing applications received after the 31 August 2003, including the application for the pupil in question, will be considered in the context of the outcome of discussions on a weighted system of allocation of resource teaching support. A further communication will be sent to schools in this regard.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

252 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of appeals against the awarding of assistant school principal and special duties posts at primary and second level throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8750/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The pupil may avail of concessionary fare paying transport to his nearest national school, subject to no extra State cost being incurred by way of extending or altering the route of service and on condition that spare seats exists after all children fully eligible for school transport have been accommodated.

Exemption Certificates.

Denis Naughten

Question:

256 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science when a decision will be made on an application by a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon for an exemption certificate; the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8754/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The exemption certificate for the pupil in question issued to the school on 15 March 2004.

Special Educational Needs.

Denis Naughten

Question:

257 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if primary school teachers receive training in identifying dyslexic students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8755/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Existing pre-service teacher training programmes provided by the colleges of education include specific elements aimed at equipping all primary teachers to recognise and cater for children with specific learning disabilities, including dyslexia.

In addition, the learning support teacher service has a particular role to play in addressing the special educational needs of such children. This service, which was extended in 1999 to cover all primary schools with a pupil teacher ratio of 10:1 or above targets specifically the children in question. At present, there are 1,531 learning-support teachers in primary schools.

My Department is engaged in an ongoing programme of specialist training for learning support teachers to enhance their capacity to address the needs of children with literacy and numeracy difficulties. A significant proportion of learning-support teachers have already participated in this programme.

The courses in question are supported and directly funded by the in-career development unit of my Department. Course syllabi include training in the diagnosis and identification of reading difficulties and in appropriate techniques for remediation. In particular, there is a focus on the problem of specific learning disabilities, including dyslexia, in regard to diagnosis and pedagogy.

Many shorter courses, including on-line courses, for primary teachers in the area of specific learning disabilities, including dyslexia, have been and are currently supported by the special education support service which was established by my Department in September 2003. Similar courses are also provided through the network of education centres, through teachers' organisations and through the programme of summer courses for primary teachers.

Schools Building Projects.

Denis Naughten

Question:

258 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if an application for funding will be expedited for the extension to a school (details supplied) in County Roscommon which is currently with his post primary building unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8756/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

A large scale building project for Scoil Mhuire, Strokestown, is listed in section 9 of the 2004 school building programme which is published on my Department's website at www.education.ie. This project is at the early stages of architectural planning. It has been assigned a band 2 rating by my Department in accordance with the published criteria for prioritising large scale projects.

The budget announcement regarding multi-annual capital envelopes will enable me to adopt a multi-annual framework for the school building programme which, in turn, will give greater clarity regarding projects that are not progressing in this year's programme. I will make a further announcement in that regard during the year.

John Cregan

Question:

259 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Education and Science further to recent correspondence to his Department from a secondary school (details supplied) with regard to its application for funding under the access for all scheme, if he will arrange for his Department’s architect to call to this school at the earliest possible date to resolve outstanding matters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8757/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

My Department has requested a revised proposal in respect of access for all at St. Brigid's College, Convent of Mercy, Callan, County Kilkenny. When the requested information is received in my Department the application will receive further consideration. Therefore, the Deputy will appreciate that it will serve no useful purpose at this time to have an official from my Department attend the school until such time as the revised proposals are submitted for examination.

Institutes of Technology.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

260 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the recent annual lobby of the Oireachtas 2004 organised by the Union of Students in Ireland which was attended by student leaders of the Institute of Technology in Tallaght; if he will confirm that the concerns of the USI are being addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8758/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I do not have details of the concerns to which the Deputy refers. I would need more information regarding the issues involved to address the matter further.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

261 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the contacts he has had with the Institute of Technology, Tallaght regarding the need for further development of facilities at this institution; if his attention has been drawn to the anxiety of the college’s student union to see progress in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8759/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I am not aware of the concerns of the student's union at the Institute of Technology, Tallaght as referred to by the Deputy. However, if the Deputy is referring to further capital developments at the institute he is probably aware that the Higher Education Authority, at my request, is carrying out a review of capital projects to assess the entire set of demands in all publicly funded third level institutions, to establish prioritisation and agree re-phasing.

I understand the Institute of Technology, Tallaght has met the review group and made a presentation on its institutional strategy and set the capital development proposals in such a strategic context. It is the intention of the review group to have a report submitted to the HEA by the end of March. The authority will then advise me of its views. Decisions in respect of capital projects at third level institutions, such as those at the Institute of Technology, Tallaght, will be taken in the context of the capital envelope of funds available to me.

Special Educational Needs.

John McGuinness

Question:

262 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the school and home support that has been put in place for a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; if a full assessment of the person has been completed; if all of the recommendations from that assessment have been acted upon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8818/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

My Department has received an application from the school in question for special educational resources, SER, for the pupil referred to by the Deputy. SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003, including this application, are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all of these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

My Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy, including an application for the pupil in question. SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all of these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

Processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03, which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

Higher Education Grants.

John Perry

Question:

266 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties encountered by a person (details supplied) in County Sligo in regard to financial assistance while at college; if he will ensure that this funding is granted in light of the circumstances outlined; the avenues available to him to secure funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8858/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The VEC in Dun Laoghaire has indicated that all PLC courses in the Senior College Dun Laoghaire have prior sanction of the Department of Education and Science and all lead to recognised qualifications. The post leaving certificate review was commissioned to examine the sector and make recommendations as necessary regarding the organisational, support, development, technical and administrative structures and resources required in schools with large scale post leaving certificate, PLC, provision, having regard to good practice in related areas across the system and in other countries. The final report was completed in April 2003.

The recommendations of the report are wide-ranging and encompass proposals that extend beyond PLC provision. The report poses considerable challenges in regard to the shaping of structures for the delivery of further and adult education into the future. The recommendations are being considered at departmental level with a view to addressing the priority issues within the context of overall educational policy and provision.

Officials in my Department have had discussions with the management and staff representative interests in the sector to examine their respective priorities and to consider issues surrounding a number of the recommendations of the report, having regard to the implications for other areas of the education system. Further consultations with all the relevant interests with regard to prioritisation of the recommendations will be held in the period ahead.

Site Acquisitions.

The purpose of this new approach to school planning is to ensure that, in future, the provision of school infrastructure will be decided only after a transparent consultation process. In this regard, parents, trustees, sponsors of prospective new schools and all interested parties in an area will have the opportunity to have their voices heard in the process.

Following the consultation process, individual plans will set out the blueprint for schools' development in an area covering a period of up to ten years. In this way, the education needs at both primary and post primary levels in the Laytown-Bettystown area to cater for the rapidly expanding population in the area will be assessed as part of development plan to be drawn up for the area.

Special Educational Needs.

Michael Ring

Question:

273 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the resource teaching hours that are allocated to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; the psychologist who assessed him; and when he was assessed. [9014/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

My Department has received an application for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy in regard to the pupil in question. SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all of these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

Processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03, which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

The arrangements for processing applications received after 31 August 2003 will be considered in the context of the outcome of discussions on a weighted system of allocation of resource teaching support. A further communication will be sent to schools in this regard.

Grant Aid.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

274 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when he expects to allocate the balance of grant aid available to encourage participation in the sciences to the authorities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if his attention has been drawn to the urgent need in view of the fact that the school is expected to respond to and participate in the policy decisions announced by his Department; if his attention has further been drawn to the damage likely to the schools junior syllabus in the event of further delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9015/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

275 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when he expects to allocate the balance of grant aid available to encourage participation in the sciences to the authorities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if his attention has been drawn to the need in view of the fact that the school is expected to respond to and participate in the policy decisions announced by his Department; if his attention has been further drawn to the damage likely to the schools syllabus in the event of further delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9016/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 274 and 275 together.

My Department is currently examining all the applications received and upon completion of this process will issue payments to all eligible schools. To facilitate schools participating in this process, it is the intention of my Department's school building unit to have finalised this examination by mid April 2004 at the latest and to proceed at that time with the issuing of the relevant grant aid.

Youth Services.

David Stanton

Question:

276 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the mechanisms through which youth groups and youth organisations and others providing facilities for youth work can apply for, and avail of, funding to enable capital and refurbishment works to be carried out on premises to be used for youth activities; the amount of such funding made available by his Department specifically for capital and refurbishment works for youth activities in 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9017/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Funding at the disposal of the youth affairs section in my Department is designed principally to ensure the provision of non-formal educational opportunities for young people. For this purpose, grant-in-aid funding is provided for youth organisations at national level under the youth service grant scheme, special youth work projects for disadvantaged young people and youth clubs and groups through the local youth club grant scheme. These schemes are of a current expenditure nature.

In 1998, the Government approved the establishment of the young people's facilities and services fund to assist in the development of preventative strategies in a targeted manner through the provision of youth facilities, including sport and recreational facilities and services in disadvantaged areas, where a significant drug problem has been identified or has the potential to develop. Decisions regarding locations from the fund are made by a national assessment committee, which is chaired by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. My Department agreed to administer the funding to the local authorities and vocational educational committees in respect of more than 300 capital and services projects. The capital provision in respect of the YPFSF for the years 2000 to 2002 was €4.762 million, €11.0645 million and €10.254 million, respectively, and was administered by the youth affairs section. In 2003, responsibility for the YPFSF funding transferred to the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.

In addition, my Department's youth affairs section made available a once-off capital contribution of €1.27 million towards the reconstruction costs of the Limerick youth services centre, which had been announced in the 2001 budget. A capital allocation of €507,895 was provided in the post primary capital Vote in 2000 towards the cost of the construction of an administrative building and resource centre of the Catholic Scouts of Ireland. A total of €457,105.71 was drawn down by June 2001 and the balance in June 2003.

In addition, a capital allocation of €1,237,994.63 was provided for An Óige in the post-primary capital Vote in 2000. The allocation was in respect of refurbishment works to Aughavannagh youth hostel. To date, this grant has not been drawn down by An Óige.

ICT Programme.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

277 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science if he proposes to provide computer hardware for primary schools; the level of investment in computer hardware for primary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9132/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Since 1998, my Department has provided funding of more than €140 million for the schools' ICT programme, including capital grants for computer hardware and software, teacher training and a range of support services to promote ICT in teaching and learning in schools.

Under the schools IT 2000 initiative 1998-2000, €22 million was made available to primary schools in ICT capital grants while a further €35 million was provided to primary schools under the Blueprint for the Future of ICT in Education, 2001-2003. In this period, significant progress has been made in enhancing access to and use of ICT in primary schools. The average pupil to computer ratio has fallen from 37:1 to just over 11:1, every school has been provided with an Internet connection and approximately 90% of teachers have acquired basic training in the use of ICT, while many teachers have gone on to undertake further training.

Future funding for computer hardware in primary schools will be considered in the context of available resources and plans for a new schools' ICT strategy which are currently at an advanced stage of preparation in my Department.

Schools Refurbishment.

Mary Upton

Question:

278 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review the maintenance needs of a school (details supplied) in particular, repairs to windows and the leaking roof; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9151/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Carrying out routine maintenance works in a school is the responsibility of a school's board of management. The school's management authority should use a portion of the capitation grant provided by my Department for this purpose.

More extensive works of a capital nature can be addressed by accessing funding under the summer works scheme. While an application from the school to which the Deputy refers under the 2004 summer works scheme was unsuccessful, it is open to the school's management authority to re-apply for funding for capital works as part of the 2005 scheme, details of which will be announced later this year.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

279 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the total cost to the Exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9183/04]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

To date, my Department, together with bodies under the aegis of the Department and other educational bodies, has hosted nine Presidency events in the field of education and training. The information sought by the Deputy in respect of each event is set out as follows. The total costs of all events to date is not available as final payments have yet to be made.

Launch of the European Year of Education Through Sport, 29-30 January, Croke Park, Dublin — the Presidency hosted one dinner at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham during this event. The dinner was attended by the Dutch Minister for Sport and by approximately 180 delegates representing Ministries of Education and Sport and other relevant bodies in each EU member state and accession country. A number of EU Commission officials were also in attendance. No Garda motorcycle escorts were provided. Invitations were issued by post and by e-mail.

Learning in the Europe of Knowledge Conference, 6-7 February, NUI, Galway — a delegate dinner was held in Newcastle, County Galway. Some 101 delegates attended, including educational experts, lecturers and professors in third level institutions from Ireland and Europe. No Garda escort was provided. Invitations were issued by post. European Student Convention, 10-12 February, Dublin Castle — no functions or receptions were held.

Youth Ministerial Conference, 4-6 March, Dromoland Castle, County Clare — a reception and gala dinner was held on 5 March. Approximately 170 delegates attended, including several Ministers for Youth Affairs from EU and accession countries, senior officials, representatives of non-governmental organisations and two young people from each country. Several local dignitaries, including TDs and representatives of the European Parliament, the EU Commission, the European Youth Forum and the European Economic and Social Committee also attended. Garda escorts from Shannon Airport to Dromoland Castle were provided for the eight Ministers who attended, for the chairperson of the education committee of the European Parliament and the EU Commission Director for Youth, Civil Society and Communication. Invitations issued by post and e-mail.

Meeting of Directors General for Higher Education, 5-6 March, Dublin Castle — a reception was held in the Mansion House and a dinner in Farmleigh. Both events were attended by 80 people composed of delegates from EU and accession countries, delegates' spouses or partners, invited speakers, invited speakers' spouses or partners and officials from the Department. No Garda escort was provided on either occasion. Invitations were issued on registration.

Conference on Common Approaches to Vocational Training and Higher Education, 8 March, Dublin Castle — a reception was held in Trinity College, hosted by the Tánaiste, attended by approximately 250 people, including delegates from EU and accession countries and from relevant Irish bodies. No Garda escort was provided. Invitations were issued by e-mail. A reception was held in the Chester Beatty Library at the end of the conference with delegates from the Directors General for Vocational Training and the Bologna Follow-up Group also present. Approximately 200 people attended. Invitations were issued by post and e-mail. No Garda escort was provided.

Meeting of Bologna Follow-up Group, 9 March, Department of Education and Science, Dublin — delegates attending the Bologna Follow-up Group also attended a reception at the end of the conference on Common Approaches to Vocational Training and Higher Education.

Meeting of Directors General for Vocational Training, 9 March, Dublin Castle — a dinner was held in Farmleigh attended by 70 people, including senior officials from EU member states and accession countries. No Garda escort was provided. Invitations were sent by post.

OECD Ministers Conference, 18-19 March, Dublin Castle — a dinner was held in Farmleigh attended by 154 people, including Ministers for Education from OECD countries and senior officials. A Garda escort was provided to the venue. Invitations were hand delivered.

Ministerial Appointments.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

280 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of staff appointed by him from outside the Civil Service since the general election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8332/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

I have appointed four staff from outside the Civil Service since the general election in 2002. The details which the Deputy has requested in relation to these individuals is laid out in the following table:

Name	Title	Salary 2002(June to Dec)€	Salary2003€	Salary 2004(Jan to date)€	Travel & SubsistenceJune 2002 to date€
Richard Moore	Press adviser	47,061	97,854	24,404	2,265
Ciaran O’Cuinn	Special adviser	31,512	71,001	20,316	4,696
Myra Wall	Personal secretary	22,059	51,832	13,493	Nil
Christine Maguire	Personal assistant	23,252	55,314	15,215	Nil

Telecommunications Services.

Enda Kenny

Question:

281 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether, in respect of his commitment to open up access to broadband for all, that the inclusion of a former Eircom subsidiary (details supplied) in a consortium can be interpreted as an appeasement of a major telecommunications operator, and at the same time provide an additional blocked competition in the market place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8396/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

Arrangements for the marketing, management, operation and maintenance of the metropolitan area networks will be consistent with the Government's strategy of providing broadband infrastructure on an open access and carrier neutral basis. It is intended that this open access principle will be enshrined in a code of practice for the use of the metropolitan area networks thus ensuring that access to the infrastructure is administered on fair, transparent and non-discriminatory terms to all interested parties. The competition for the appointment of the management services entity is a public procurement process. I have, and have had, no role in the tendering process.

Radio Broadcasting.

Enda Kenny

Question:

282 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the conditions required for Internet radio station approval; and his views on the feasibility of such a project by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [8405/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

I am aware of the demands as expressed by the associations mentioned by the Deputy in regard to drift netting for wild salmon. I take this opportunity to reaffirm the Government's commitment to the conservation of the wild salmon stock so that in the future the resource can provide the maximum contribution to the regional and national economy.

The Government views our salmon stock as a national asset, which must be conserved, protected and shared among all our citizens. As a result, a delicate balancing exercise is necessary between the needs of the coastal and inland communities who depend on fishing resources for their livelihood and the recreational users, including tourists, who each pursue the noble salmon for their own end.

We all agree over-exploitation of fish stocks is a significant threat to the long-term sustainability of the inland fisheries resource. The Government has accepted the scientific advice to the effect that reductions in the overall fishing effort are required in order to sustain and rebuild wild salmon stocks on a district basis. For this reason, the current policy has been designed to bring spawning escapement in all districts and catchments up to the level of the scientifically advised conservation limit in 2005.

With regard to commercial salmon fishing, I would argue strongly that the Government's management of the Irish home water commercial salmon fisheries, which limits the commercial salmon fishing season and restricts the number of fish being caught, clearly demonstrates a commitment to the conservation of the wild salmon stock which is in keeping with the highest international standards.

My Department has in recent years introduced a range of conservation measures which have seen considerable advancements made in salmon policy and, in particular, the management of the drift net salmon fishery. As part of these measures, the drift net season is now confined to a two month period in June and July on a four day week basis. Fishing is only allowed during daylight hours and is confined to the area within the six mile limit.

The Department has recently published draft wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme regulations which, inter alia, limit the total allowable commercial catch of salmon for the 2004 season. The current strategy of developing a sustainable commercial and recreational salmon fishery through aligning catches on the scientific advice by next year holds out the strong prospect of a recovery of stocks and of a long term sustainable fishery for both sectors.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

288 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the amount of money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access services of his Department. [8643/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

There was no specific allocation by my Department in 2003 or 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities. In terms of enabling access to my Department for persons with disabilities, the refurbishment of the reception to the Department's offices in Leeson Lane incorporated a number of items to facilitate and enhance access for persons with disabilities. The Department's offices in Adelaide Road have also been refurbished and access for persons with disabilities enhanced as part of that project. While it is not possible to accurately separate the cost of these items from the overall cost of the contract, it is estimated that the cost was in the region of €61,500 plus VAT.

Harbours and Piers

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

289 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he proposes to make funding available to a local authority (details supplied) to complete very necessary works. [8719/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

Knockadoon Pier is owned by Cork County Council and responsibility for its repair and maintenance rests with the local authority in the first instance. In July 2003, Cork County Council made an application to my Department for funding to carry out works at Knockadoon slipway at an estimated cost of €94,500. There was no funding available in 2003 for these works. The question of providing funding in the 2004-06 period will depend on the amount of Exchequer funding available for works at fishery harbours generally and overall national priorities.

Departmental Schemes.

Denis Naughten

Question:

290 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the action he is taking to extend three phase electricity to rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8732/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

My Department administers the farm electrification grant scheme which subsidises the installation of electricity supply to farms located in disadvantaged areas which are without supply or where supply is inadequate to facilitate their development and modernisation. Both single phase and three phase installations are eligible for assistance under the scheme. Apart from that, the question of availability of three phase supply is a matter for the electricity sector players and not one in which I have a function.

Motor Ferry Employees.

Finian McGrath

Question:

291 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will assist the 75 mostly European crew of a motor ferry (details supplied) operating out of Cork; and if he will give them the maximum advice, support and assistance. [8988/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

I have no statutory function in regard to seafarers' wages. Terms and conditions of employment in respect of the seafarers operating on board the super ferry is primarily the responsibility of the ship owners. The super ferry is not registered on the Irish ship register. Obligations on the ship's owners regarding maintenance, crewing standards and certification of those matters are appropriate to the flag state operating the ship's register, which in this instance is St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The primary concern of my Department is to ensure that all sea-going vessels operate in a safe manner and in compliance with all the relevant regulations and legislation. This is in accordance with the International Labour Organisation, ILO, Convention No. 147, article 4, which authorises port states to take measures necessary to rectify any conditions on board a vessel which are clearly hazardous to health. In this regard, the maritime safety directorate of my Department regularly inspects the super ferry under port state control and EU mandatory ro-ro vessel inspection procedures, to ensure that the vessel complies in every respect with international maritime safety requirements.

Fishery Inspectors.

Martin Ferris

Question:

292 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the action he intends to take to settle the industrial dispute with the fishery inspectors which affects the fish processing industry by the Department’s ban on landings between midnight and 8 a.m.; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that boats are now landing outside of this country and thus seasonal workers are being denied the right to work by the actions of his Department; and if the Minister will compensate the fish processing workers for loss of earnings and the fishermen for additional transport costs. [9073/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

The new landing times for pelagic fish have been imposed because of more stringent monitoring controls and weighing procedures recently introduced by the European Commission in regard to the mackerel, horse mackerel and north west herring fisheries. These new rules are designed to facilitate effective control of pelagic fisheries. Such control is a key element in fisheries management policy and enables the sustainable management and development of the fisheries concerned. This is an entirely valid policy objective and I fully support it.

In implementing the new EU procedures, my Department has acceded to industry requests to allow landings at a variety of ports around the coast. The immediate impact of that decision was that some restrictions had to be placed on permitted landing time at the range of permitted ports. The permitted times for landing are between 8 a.m. and midnight on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and public holidays. This represents fairly comprehensive coverage given the constraints on staffing resources. While a 24 hour coverage would be an ideal situation, there are certain organisational and resource realities that my Department has had to consider and the current rate of coverage is a reasonable response in the prevailing circumstances.

I and my Department officials continue to work closely with the industry in the implementation of these new requirements. We have worked together in the past few weeks to put in place certain transitional arrangements which are both effective in control terms and also satisfy the legitimate requirement of both fishermen and processors to maintain the quality of catches. This process will continue and I am confident practical problems can be resolved in a mutually satisfactory manner. In this context, I have not ruled out a possible extension to the existing permitted hours of landing going forward provided that a clear justification exists and that sufficient resources are available to support any such changes.

The supply of fish to fish processing plants has always been subject to the influence of many factors including weather, the location of where the fish is being caught and the prices paid at different ports. A significant proportion of the catches in the spring pelagic fisheries have normally been landed abroad. The choice of where fish is landed, whether into ports within Ireland or elsewhere, cannot be directed by me and is a matter solely for the individual fishing skippers. Under the current arrangements, the maximum possible waiting period in Irish ports of up to eight hours during a weekday and up to 14 hours during a weekend is substantially less than the time that is often spent by these vessels sailing to alternative landing ports outside Ireland. Clearly, the choice of some skippers to land some pelagic catches abroad is not determined by the limited restrictions on night time landings.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

293 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the cost to the exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9184/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

The following table sets out the EU Presidency events undertaken to date by my Department. Final costs are not yet available.

Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Presidency events.
Date	Event	Number/Status invited	Involvement of Garda Motor Cycles	Method of invitation
01-03 March	Broadcasting Conference — Dublin	30 Ministers 80 Delegates	Yes	Letter
10-11 March	Ministerial Fisheries Conference — Dundalk	25 Ministers 105 Delegates	Yes	Letter and E-mail
17 March	International Maritime Organisation — Sub-committee on Flag State Implementation, 12th session — St. Patrick’s Day reception — IMO, London	200 Delegates	No	Verbal by announcement at the meeting

Dissolution of Board.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

294 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when a board (details supplied) was informed of its dissolution and the structure in place in the interim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9206/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

Donegal County Council has been wholly responsible for the management, control and operation of Buncrana Harbour since December 1999. Following consultation between the various interested parties, the Buncrana Harbour Commissioners, which had operated the harbour under the Harbours Act 1946, was dissolved by means of an order, S.I. No. 394 of 1999, made under section 88 of the Harbours Act 1996. On dissolution, all property, rights and liabilities and every member of staff of the harbour authority transferred to Donegal County Council.

Ministerial Appointments.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

295 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of staff appointed by him from outside the Civil Service since the general election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8333/04]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

Since the general election in 2002, I have appointed two people from outside the Civil Service to positions in my Department. The appointees are my personal assistant and my personal secretary. The total salary paid to these appointees since June 2002 is €137,585.69. The total paid to date in expenses is €34,488.21. These appointments are in accordance with the Department of Finance guidelines on such matters.

National Conference Centre.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

296 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in regard to the national conference centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8434/04]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

As I informed the House on 25 February last, four submissions were received by the Office of Public Works in response to its advertisement for expressions of interest in the provision of a national conference centre in the Dublin area.

Those submissions are currently undergoing detailed evaluation by an assessment panel representative of my Department, the Office of Public Works and its advisers, the Department of Finance, Fáilte Ireland and the National Development Finance Agency. A separate panel will subsequently evaluate the site proposals that candidates were also required to put forward, following which the next stage of the process will be initiated with a view to securing a final decision from Government in the autumn. Subject to the acceptability of proposals, the national conference centre could, as envisaged in the expressions of interest notice, be constructed before the end of 2007.

Tax Code.

Pat Breen

Question:

297 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has received correspondence from an organisation (details supplied) in County Clare; the action he will take in regard to the correspondence under the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8549/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern)

Section 847A of the Taxes Consolidation Act provides for a scheme for tax relief for relevant donations to an approved sports body for the funding of approved projects. This scheme is administered jointly by the Revenue Commissioners and my Department. My Department's sole function is to certify that the project is a sports project.

It is a requirement under the scheme that the applicant be recognised as a sports exempt body under section 235 of the Taxes Consolidation Act. Sports exempt certification is provided by the Revenue Commissioners alone. This certification by the Revenue Commissioners states that a body is established and existing for the sole purpose of promoting sport, whose income is exempt from income-corporation tax.

An application to this scheme was received by my Department earlier this year from the organisation in question. However, this organisation is not recognised by the Revenue Commissioners as a sports exempt body and as a result its project does not qualify for consideration under this scheme.

Sports Capital Programme.

Michael Ring

Question:

298 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when funding will be made available under the sports capital programme 2004; and if he will sanction funding to a centre (details supplied) in County Mayo under this programme. [8550/04]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

The national lottery funded sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The programme is advertised on an annual basis.

The 2004 sports capital programme was advertised in the national newspapers on 30 November and 1 December 2003. The closing date for receipt of applications was 16 January 2004. A total of 1,304 applications were received before the closing date, including one from the organisation in question. All applications are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.

Dance Training.

John Gormley

Question:

299 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is currently no dance training to professional level available for dance students here; if he has plans to fund dance students who have no choice but to live and train abroad; and if he has plans to provide a comprehensive dance education system and an academy for the performing arts. [8566/04]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 225 on 17 December 2003.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

300 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access services of his Department. [8644/04]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

Under the national lottery funded sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, funding is available to sporting clubs and organisations and to voluntary and community organisations, including organisations representing people with disabilities at local, regional and national levels throughout the country towards the provision of sporting facilities and equipment. It is a requirement of the programme that projects funded be accessible to those with disabilities.

Under the 2003 sports capital programme, €56.35 million was allocated to 628 projects. The type of projects involved include indoor sports halls, community centres, athletic tracks, all-weather playing pitches, basketball courts, provision of sports equipment and a variety of other sports facilities, all of which can be used by disabled persons. In terms of specific allocations to organisations representing the disabled under the 2003 programme, grant aid of €100,000 was allocated to the Irish Wheelchair Association and €3,000 to the Laois Riding for the Disabled Association under the 2003 programme.

Funding in 2003 included €350,000 allocated to the AUL complex in Clonshaugh and €275,000 to Morton stadium to refurbish and improve their facilities for hosting the soccer and athletics competitions of the 2003 Special Olympics World Games. In 2003, my Department also paid the final 5% of the €19.05 million grant allocated in 2001 to ensure that facilities at Croke Park were ready for the games.

The 2004 sports capital programme was advertised in the national newspapers on 30 November and 1 December 2003. The closing date for receipt of applications was 16 January 2004. A total of 1,034 applications were received before the closing date, all of which are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.

In addition, the Irish Sports Council, from the funding provided by my Department, provided annual grants to a number or organisations representing the disabled, such as the Paralympic Council of Ireland, Special Olympics Ireland, Cerebral Palsy Ireland, Irish Blind Sports Association, Irish Deaf Sports Association and the Irish Wheelchair Association and also to individual elite competitors with disability to assist with their programmes and activities. In 2003, €9.05 million was allocated from my Department's Vote to assist towards the costs of preparing for and staging the Special Olympics World Summer Games.

There is no provision within my Department's Vote specifically allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access the services of my Department. However, I am happy to say that my Department's website has been certified for maximum possible accessibility for users with disabilities and is monitored on a monthly basis to ensure it continues to be fully accessible.

The main services of my Department used by the public are provided by the cultural institutions — the National Museum, the National Library and the National Archives — which form part of my Department. The capital expenditure for new construction and refurbishment in regard to these institutions is provided by the Office of Public Works and the provision of access for disabled persons is incorporated to the extent that is practicable.

Sports Capital Programme.

Martin Ferris

Question:

301 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when the grant application by An Tinteán Theatre, Ballybunion, which was submitted more than two years ago, will be assessed; and when they will get a reply. [8742/04]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

A capital grant of €825,000 was allocated by my Department to this project in December 2001, to assist with the development of phase 1 of the project, which involves the construction of an auditorium with associated administration and backstage facilities. My officials have been in regular contact with the promoters of this project and €675,000 was paid to the promoters in December 2003. The balance will be paid on submission by the promoters of the appropriate documentation. In addition, I announced yesterday that a grant of up to €709,803 has been allocated to this project under the EU co-financed tourism product development scheme, operated by Fáilte Ireland.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

302 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will approve a grant for a club (details supplied) in County Kerry from the national lottery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8743/04]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

National Cultural Institutions.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

312 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his Department has received a request for additional staffing from the National Museum of Ireland following implementation of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997; the levels of additional staffing requested; the levels of additional staffing to be allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9153/04]

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

313 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his attention has been drawn to the provisions of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997 which have yet to be implemented; the timescale for the full implementation of the Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9154/04]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 312 and 313 together.

The main provisions of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997 that have not yet been brought into effect relate to the establishment of statutory boards for the National Museum of Ireland and the National Library of Ireland for the purpose of granting these institutions autonomous status. Work has been proceeding with a view to bringing the relevant provisions into force. However, it is not the intention to grant autonomous status unless the resources available to the institutions are adequate to enable them thereafter to function satisfactorily.

To date, the finance and human resource functions for these institutions have been carried out by my Department and, at a minimum, resources necessary to allow those functions to be transferred must be provided to the institutions. The National Library of Ireland has sought an additional 12 posts in the context of autonomy. The National Museum of Ireland has sought a total of 93 additional posts in the context of its ten-year capital expansion programme and the granting of autonomous status. The granting of autonomous status and the bringing into effect of the remaining provisions of the Act are dependent on the resolution of the issues surrounding staff resources. In this regard, discussions are ongoing with the Department of Finance, in the context of current Government policy on staff numbers in the public sector.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

314 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the cost to the exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9185/04]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

The following tabular statement sets out the information requested by the Deputy on EU Presidency events held to date.

Event	Detail	Date	Invites	Status of those attending	Garda Escorts	Total Spend €
Cultural Programme	Cultural Programme Launch (Dublin)	7 January	1000 posted	Minister, Arts community, Media, Department Officials, Embassies	No	11,500
	Danu Concert (Brussels)	12 January	1500 posted	Minister, Brussels Diplomatic Community, Department officials, Media	No	48,200
	Gallery of Photography Exhibition Launch (Brussels)	12 January	100 bye-mail	Minister, Artists, Diplomatic staff,	No	1,000
	National Gallery — New Frontiers (Dublin)	2 March	1000 posted	Minister, Ambassadors, Ministers of Culture, Arts community, Sponsors, Media, Department officials	No	12,500
	Music Tours Launch (Dublin)	9 March	500 posted	Minister, Ambassadors, Arts community, Participating musicians, Media, Department officials	No	7,500
Official Events	Seminar on Literature as a means of promoting Linguistic Diversity (Killarney, Kerry)	11-12 March	10 posted66 by e-mail	Minister, EU Cultural Affairs Committee, Sectoral Representatives, Department officials	No	100,000
TOTAL €	180,700

Health Board Services.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

315 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if speech therapy will be provided for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8. [8344/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

The provision of health related services, including speech and language therapy, for people with physical and/or sensory disabilities is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards in the first instance. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the chief executive officer of the Eastern Regional Health Authority with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy, as a matter of urgency.

Adoption Services.

David Stanton

Question:

316 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children adopted from outside the State each year in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and to date in 2004; the countries of origin in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9026/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan)

The Adoption Board, which is an autonomous body, collects the information requested. My Department has asked the CEO of the board to reply directly to the Deputy.

Heart Disease.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

317 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children the deaths due to heart disease in each health board region for the years 2000 and 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8267/04]

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

318 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children the deaths due to cardiovascular diseases in County Kerry for both males and females in the years 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2003 respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8268/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 317 and 318 together.

The information sought by the Deputy is in the following tables.

Deaths of residents in Kerry classified by cause of death and sex
Year of occurrence: 2000
		All	Male	Female
393-398	Acute rheumatic fever	2	0	2
401-405	Hypertensive disease	15	8	7
410-414	Ischaemic heart disease	312	169	143
415-417	Diseases of pulmonary circulation	5	4	1
420-429	Other forms of heart disease	97	49	48
430-438	Cerebrovascular disease	118	58	60
440-448	Diseases of arteries, arterioles and capillaries	43	24	19
451-459	Diseases of veins and lymphatics, and other diseases of circulatory system	9	4	5
All		601	316	285

Year of occurrence: 2001
		All	Male	Female
401-405	Hypertensive disease	16	10	6
410-414	Ischaemic heart disease	278	159	119
415-417	Diseases of pulmonary circulation	2	2	0
420-429	Other forms of heart disease	87	50	37
430-438	Cerebrovascular disease	104	55	49
440-448	Diseases of arteries, arterioles and capillaries	40	25	15
451-459	Diseases of veins and lymphatics, and other diseases of circulatory system	5	2	3
All		532	303	229

Year of registration: 2002
		All	Male	Female
393-398	Acute rheumatic fever	2	0	2
401-405	Hypertensive disease	18	6	12
410-414	Ischaemic heart disease	288	149	139
415-417	Diseases of pulmonary circulation	2	1	1
420-429	Other forms of heart disease	82	46	36
430-438	Cerebrovascular disease	110	54	56
440-448	Diseases of arteries, arterioles and capillaries	40	25	15
451-459	Diseases of veins and lymphatics, and other diseases of circulatory system	12	6	6
All		554	287	267

Year of registration: 2003 (1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter)
		All	Male	Female
401-405	Hypertensive disease	11	5	6
410-414	Ischaemic heart disease	180	111	69
415-417	Diseases of pulmonary circulation	2	1	1
420-429	Other forms of heart disease	63	31	32
430-438	Cerebrovascular disease	83	39	44
440-448	Diseases of arteries, arterioles and capillaries	23	9	14
451-459	Diseases of veins and lymphatics, and other diseases of circulatory system	3	0	3
All		365	196	169

Year of occurrence: 2000
Healthboard area of residence	All
Eastern	3,775
South-Eastern	1,384
Midland	766
North-Eastern	1,062
Mid-Western	1,169
Southern	2,217
West	1,440
North-Western	853
All	12,666

Year of occurrence: 2003
(1st, 2nd and 3rd quarter available to date
Healthboard area of residence	All
Eastern	2,548
South-Eastern	917
Midland	506
North-Eastern	646
Mid-Western	738
Southern	1,404
West	1,023
North-Western	565
All	8,347

Hospitals Building Programme.

Paul McGrath

Question:

319 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children when the builders’ warranty on phase 1 and the new accident and emergency department of the new James Connolly Memorial Hospital expire. [8269/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Responsibility for the capital development at James Connolly Memorial Hospital, phase 1, is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has therefore asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Finian McGrath

Question:

320 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the waiting list for new patients for both diabetes and endocrine disease is still 16 months at Beaumont Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8270/04]

Finian McGrath

Question:

321 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will appoint and fund four full-time diabetes consultants for Beaumont Hospital, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on improving the services for patients who have to wait 16 months. [8271/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 320 and 321 together.

Services at Beaumont Hospital are provided under an arrangement with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to examine the issues raised and to reply to the Deputy directly.

Hospital Services.

Liz McManus

Question:

322 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is no dietician in St. Columcille’s Hospital, Loughlinstown; the reasons this is so; when the post is to be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8272/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Any proposal to develop services at St. Columcille's Hospital, Loughlinstown, is a matter for consideration by the Eastern Regional Health Authority in the first instance. My Department has, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the matters raised by the Deputy and to reply to her directly.

Home Help Service.

Jack Wall

Question:

323 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare has had their home help hours cut; if there is medical evidence to support such a reduction; the plans his Department has to review such reductions; the number of hours allocated to the person now; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8273/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. Callely)

As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Kildare area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the South Western Area Health Board acting under the aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply direct to him as a matter of urgency.

Organ Donation.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

324 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children his plans to introduce an organ donation scheme such as found in several other European countries in which consent to donate is presumed unless an opt-out form is signed. [8302/04]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

332 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children the discussions he has had with the Minister for Transport in regard to introducing an organ donation scheme using the new plastic card formatted driving licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8347/04]

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

343 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will consider introducing an organ donation scheme using the new plastic card formatted driving license, which will be introduced shortly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8391/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 324, 332 and 343 together.

There are two systems that can be used to ascertain an individual's wishes on organ donation: the opt-in system and the opt-out system. The former system, which operates in this country, requires that the specific consent to donation of each person, or their relatives, be obtained before organs or tissues are removed. The opt-out system presumes that all citizens consent to donation unless they have specifically expressed a wish to the contrary. The practice in this country is that where a person has indicated his or her willingness to donate organs by way of carrying an organ donor card, or a driving licence marked accordingly, the consent of the next-of-kin is always sought.

Even where opt-out systems are in operation, the relatives of the deceased are approached as part of the donor screening process to seek a medical history of any high-risk behaviour. Thus, the relatives will always be aware that a donation is being considered and can register an objection to the donation.

I understand that the European Commission is considering the question of legislation in respect of organ transplantation, including the issue of consent, and proposes to conduct a thorough scientific evaluation. It will present a report to the Council of the European Union on its analysis as soon as possible.

In the meantime I am proposing to establish, in the near future, an expert group to examine organ donation, procurement and utilisation policy in Ireland as part of the national health strategy's commitment to develop organ transplantation services with a view to increasing donation and utilisation rates. I would be happy to have the issue raised by the Deputies considered by the group in the course of its work.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

325 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are plans to negotiate a public private partnership arrangement in respect of the need for the immediate redevelopment of the Millbrook Lawns health centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24; if his attention has been drawn to the obvious potential in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8303/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The identification, prioritisation and provision of health centres to meet the health and personal social service needs of local communities are matters for the health boards or the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA. In the case of Millbrook Lawns health centre, this responsibility rests with the ERHA.

I am not aware of any plans to negotiate a public private partnership arrangement in respect of Millbrook Lawns health centre. However, the ERHA has recently submitted proposals for the development of this centre costing in the region of €1 million. These are currently being considered by my Department in the context of an examination of overall capital priorities for 2004. This examination will be completed shortly and my Department will then be in a better position to revert to the ERHA about progressing this project.

Hospital Services.

Finian McGrath

Question:

326 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if the maximum advice and assistance will be given to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 on their peripheral vision and their attempt to claim assistance. [8317/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Responsibility for the provision of ophthalmic services to eligible persons in Dublin 5 is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has asked the regional chief executive officer to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Eating Disorders.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

327 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of specialist consultants in the State specialising in eating disorders; the other services available to those suffering from eating disorders; if there is a strategy in place for addressing this growing public health problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8319/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

Persons presenting with eating disorders are generally treated through the psychiatric services of their local health board. Out-patient psychiatric services are provided from a network of hospitals, health centres, day hospitals and day centres. Where in-patient treatment is deemed necessary, it is provided in the local acute psychiatric unit or hospital, beds being allocated on the basis of patient need at any particular time.

A tertiary referral service for eating disorders is available to public patients in St. Vincent's Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin where three in-patient beds are designated for this purpose. A similar service is available privately at St. Patrick's Hospital, James's St, Dublin and at St. John of God Hospital, Stillorgan, County Dublin.

The number of consultants in the State specialising in eating disorders is not known, as eating disorders do not represent a recognised consultant specialty or special interest post in the context of the appointment of consultants. However, it is acknowledged that many physicians, paediatricians and psychiatrists have developed particular expertise in the area.

Later this year, the working group on child and adolescent psychiatry will commence the preparation of a report on services for people with eating disorders and how they can best be developed in the short, medium and long term.

Home Help Service.

Pat Carey

Question:

328 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason 1.5 hours home help service is being withdrawn from a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8321/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. Callely)

As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Dublin 11 area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the Northern Area Health Board acting under the aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply direct to him as a matter of urgency.

Departmental Staff.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

329 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of staff appointed by him from outside the Civil Service since the general election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8334/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Since the General Election in 2002 there has been one appointment to the post of press officer to my office from outside the Civil Service. The total amount for salary and expenses paid from 6 June 2002 to 26 March 2004 is €119,337.84 broken down as €115,616.91 for salary and €3,720.93 for expenses.

Genetically Modified Organisms.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

330 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Health and Children if a moratorium on the importation of genetically modified foods is still in existence here; the regulations governing the actions of retailers importing foods from the United States or other countries in this regard; and the regulations that are required for the labelling of foods, which may contain genetically modified ingredients from genetically modified plants. [8340/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

There is no moratorium on genetically modified foods in Ireland or the EU. The de facto moratorium in the EU on genetically modified organisms, GMOs, relates to the fact that since October 1998, no new GMOs have been authorised for release into the environment under Directive 90/220/EC, or as food under the novel food Regulation 285/97. The EU’s regulatory regime has since been updated to better address the challenges posed by modern biotechnology. Under EU rules, only authorised genetically modified foods, or foods containing ingredients thereof, can be imported and placed on the market. Ireland applies EU legislation on GM foods.

Several EU regulations, including 258/97, 1139/98, 49/2000 and 50/2000, govern the labelling of food products containing GMOs. These will be either amended or repealed by a new regulation on GM food and feed 1829/2003, which repeals 1139/98, 49/2000 and 50/2000. Regulation 1830/2003 stipulating traceability and labelling rules for GMOs and any derived food has also been adopted. These regulations become applicable in April of this year, and will require foods produced from GMOs to be labelled irrespective of whether DNA or protein of GM origin is present in the final product.

Consequently, highly refined or processed food such as starch, sugar and oil products which may not contain any detectable DNA or protein from the original GMO and until now did not require GM specific labelling, will require specific labelling if derived from GMOs. A traceability system will also be put in place to verify the GM origin of the food where DNA or protein is not detectable. Labels will have to indicate either "This product contains genetically modified organisms" or "... produced from genetically modified (name of organism)". Operators will have to comply with these new provisions on labelling from April 2004.

Trace levels of GMOs in conventional food and feed can and do arise during cultivation, harvest, transport and processing. This is not particular to GMOs but can occur in the production of food, feed and seed with the result that it is very difficult to achieve products that are 100% pure. Against this background, the EU's objective is to ensure legal certainty and establish certain thresholds above which conventional food and feed have to be labelled as consisting of, or containing, or being produced from a GMO.

Under current legislation the presence of GM material in conventional food does not have to be labelled if it is below 1% and if it can be shown to be adventitious and technically unavoidable. The EU has now revised this to a threshold of no higher than 0.9% that will apply from April of 2004.

The FSAI is the competent authority in Ireland for the enforcement of EU legislation regarding genetically modified foods. The FSAI carries out checks on the marketplace for compliance with the GM legislation and since 2000 has found that any GM ingredients found in foods were authorised and complied with GM labelling.

Hospital Services.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

331 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Donegal will be called for urgent orthodontic treatment. [8346/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Responsibility for the provision of orthodontic treatment to eligible persons in County Donegal rests with the North Western Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 333 to 339, inclusive, together.

The Government's objective is to provide a model of cancer care, which ensures that patients with cancer receive the most appropriate and best quality of care regardless of their place of residence. In order to achieve this objective, an integrated and co-ordinated approach is required, which encompasses prevention, screening, cancer treatment — including medical, surgical and radiation oncology — education, training and research.

I launched the report the Development of Radiation Oncology Services in Ireland in October 2003. Its recommendations have been accepted by Government. The group, which prepared the report, formulated guidelines for the development of additional radiation therapy facilities as follows. A sufficient patient population should exist within a proposed catchment area to support the future development of a radiation oncology service. A radiation oncology service should enable maximum patient access to the highest quality service. Other clinical specialties and support services that enable the appropriate function and development of a radiation oncology centre and/or supra-regional cancer centre should exist on the site. Radiation oncology must be part of organised multidisciplinary cancer care. A radiation oncology service should take account of patient groups with special needs. A radiation oncology service should develop links between those hospitals providing radiation oncology care and other hospitals involved in the provision of cancer care but without physical treatment facilities. Where radiation oncology facilities are not available on site, it will be important to provide appropriate outreach services particularly through the development of joint clinical and other appointments between hospitals and/or health boards.

I am satisfied that the application of these guidelines in the development of radiation oncology services as part of a multidisciplinary cancer service will best ensure that cancer patients have access to the highest quality of care.

The Government has agreed that a major programme is now required to rapidly develop clinical radiation oncology treatment services to modern standards and that the first phase of the programme will be the development of a clinical network of large centres in Dublin, Cork and Galway. The development of these centres as a clinical network is of paramount importance and will, in the shortest possible timeframe, begin to address the profound deficit in radiation oncology services that has been identified in the report.

I have provided resources to begin to implement the report's recommendations. Specifically, I have approved the purchase of two additional linear accelerators for the supra-regional centre at Cork University Hospital, CUH, and the necessary capital investment amounting to over €4 million to commission this service as rapidly as possible. In 2004, €1 million ongoing revenue funding is being made available for this development which will improve services for cancer patients in the Southern, Mid-Western and South Eastern Health Board regions.

I have approved the appointment of an additional consultant radiation oncologist at CUH with sessional commitments to the South Eastern Health Board. I shortly expect to be in a position to announce the approval of a further consultant radiation oncologist with significant sessional commitments to the Mid-Western Health Board. I have also approved the appointment of a project team to prepare a brief for the rapid expansion of current capacity at CUH from four to eight linear accelerators.

I am making available €2.5 million ongoing revenue funding this year to the supra-regional centre at University College Hospital, Galway, UCHG. This centre is constructed and the equipment is being commissioned. I have approved the appointment of an additional consultant medical oncologist and two consultant radiation oncologists, one of whom has significant sessional commitments to the North Western Health Board. I shortly expect to be in a position to approve the appointment of a third consultant radiation oncologist, with significant sessional commitments to the Mid-Western Health Board.

I have requested the Western Health Board to prepare a development control plan to facilitate the expansion from three to six linear accelerators in the medium term. I have also approved the establishment of a project team to plan this expansion at UCHG. This project team met for the first time yesterday. These developments will have significant benefits for patients in the western, mid-western and north-western regions.

The immediate developments in the south and west will result in the provision of an additional five linear accelerators. This represents an increase of approximately 50% in linear accelerator capacity. We will also provide for the appointment of an additional five consultant radiation oncologists. We currently have ten consultant radiation oncologists nationally. This will result in a significant increase in the numbers of patients receiving radiation oncology in the short term.

The report recommends that there should be two treatment centres located in the eastern region, one serving the southern part of the region and adjacent catchment areas and one serving the northern part of the region and adjacent catchment areas. I have asked the chief medical officer of my Department to advise on the optimum location of radiation treatment facilities in Dublin. A detailed request for submissions is being finalised at present. The chief medical officer will apply the guidelines established by the group and will be supported by the hospital planning office and international experts.

With regard to the Deputy's reference to St. Luke's Hospital, I wish to assure the House that I am committed to protecting its distinct ethos and to ensuring that its expertise plays a key role in the development programme I have outlined.

The Government has also decided that in the future development of services, consideration should be given to the efficacy of developing satellite centres at Waterford, Limerick and in the north-west. Such consideration will take into account the international evaluation of satellite centres, the efficacy of providing this model and the need to ensure quality standards of care.

As recommended in the report, I have established the national radiation oncology co-ordinating group. The group comprises clinical, technical, managerial, academic and nursing expertise from different geographic regions. The group's remit encompasses recommending measures to facilitate improved access to existing and planned services, including transport and accommodation. I expect the group to develop proposals in these important areas.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Michael Ring

Question:

340 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for surgery (details supplied). [8359/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The provision of hospital services for people living in County Mayo is a matter for the Western Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the case and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Mental Health Services.

Dan Neville

Question:

341 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the report from the expert group on mental health policy, which was established in October 2003. [8372/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

The expert group on mental health policy was established in 2003 to prepare a new national policy framework for the mental health services updating the 1984 policy document Planning for the Future. The group consists of 18 widely experienced people who are serving in their personal capacity. The membership encompasses a wide range of knowledge and a balance of views on many issues affecting the performance and delivery of care in our mental health services.

The group requested submissions from interested organisations, individuals and the general public in October 2003 and almost 150 submissions were received. These submissions are now being considered by the members of the group. It has been decided also to undertake further consultation initiatives with various stakeholders, including users of the mental health services. The group is expected to complete its work in 2005.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Mary Upton

Question:

342 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding long overdue redevelopment of Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8379/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

As the Deputy is aware, the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, is charged with responsibility for commissioning health and personal social services on behalf of the population of the region, and also on behalf of those outside the region who are referred for specialist treatment.

On foot of an acknowledgement by all parties of the need for an overall development of the facilities at Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin, I approved the establishment of a project team to plan for the future development of the hospital. The team includes representatives from the hospital, the ERHA, and the Department of Health and Children.

Many of the buildings within the hospital are approximately 50 years old, and have not been upgraded in any significant way over that period. As a result, they do not now generally meet contemporary standards for paediatric hospital facilities. The first stage of the planning process, the brief for an outline development control plan that will set the context for future capital developments on the site, has been finalised and a design team to prepare the plan has been selected. The ODCP is due for completion by the end of September 2004.

It is intended that a phased approach to new development and the upgrade of facilities will be taken. The plans will allow for the prioritisation of developments according to the service needs of the hospital and the ERHA. A phased approach will ensure that services continue to be provided at the hospital during the redevelopment.

A number of additional major developments, funded by the Exchequer, are currently being put in place at the hospital. These include a €30 million investment in the new operating department which will provide two additional theatres, increasing the capacity of the hospital to five major theatres and two minor theatres. Included in this development are new recovery beds, a day surgery unit and a modern central sterile supplies department. This development will increase the capacity of the hospital to meet the additional surgery demands at both inpatient and outpatient level.

In addition, on the basis of the volume and complexity of cases being dealt with at the hospital, I approved the provision of an MRI facility at Crumlin that will significantly enhance the level of diagnostic services provided for children. A design brief has been prepared for this development and a design team to advance the planning and design process on this facility has commenced its work.

Question No. 343 answered with QuestionNo. 324.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

344 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 can avail of a scheme to obtain a free special type of door bell, smoke alarm and fax; and the schemes which are available to help persons of this kind. [8401/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

The provision of aids and appliances including, special types of doorbells, smoke alarms and faxes are a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the regional chief executive officer of the Eastern Regional Health Authority with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

Post-Adoption Contact Register.

Billy Timmins

Question:

345 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the agencies which a person who is anxious to trace their birth mother needs to contact in order to start inquiries; the agencies which will assist in checking out a birth certificate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8411/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan)

An adopted person wishing to trace their natural mother may contact the agency that handled their adoption. If the person does not know the name of the agency involved, he or she may contact the Adoption Board for advice.

Hospital Services.

Joan Burton

Question:

346 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children the regulations which exist concerning a person (details supplied) enquiring into the exact time of birth of their children in the Rotunda Hospital; if these details are recorded; if parents can access these details; and, if so, the way in which they can do so simply. [8424/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Services at the Rotunda Hospital are provided under an arrangement with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to examine the issues raised and to reply to the Deputy directly.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Michael Ring

Question:

347 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are plans in place to provide funding for an organisation (details supplied) in County Kerry. [8425/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

The development of health related support services to people with disabilities is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards in the first instance. Priorities for the allocation of funding available for the development of such services are decided by the health boards in consultation with their regional co-ordinating committees and regional consultative and development committees for disability services. Voluntary sector service providers and consumers are represented on the co-ordinating committees. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the chief executive officer of the Southern Health Board with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy, as a matter of urgency.

Hospital Staff.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

348 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of nursing posts now filled by agency nurses; if this represents good practice in terms of staffing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8469/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The Health Service Employers Agency carries out quarterly national surveys of the nursing resource, including use of agency nurses. The numbers of agency nurses used in the public health service for the months mentioned are as follows:-

Month	Average Number of Agency Nurses Used per Day
September 2000	414
January 2001	423
April 2001	499
July 2001	417
October 2001	397
January 2002	459
April 2002	384
September 2002	416
December 2002	346
March 2003	307
June 2003	294
September 2003	317
December 2003	329
Average 2001	434
Average 2002	401
Average 2003	312

While the above figures demonstrate significant fluctuations, a comparison of the averages for 2001, 2002, and 2003 clearly shows a continuous and substantial downward trend. The average number of agency nurses used per day during 2003 was 122 less than the number used during 2001, and 187 less than that used during April 2001, which was the highest monthly number recorded since the surveys began.

The use of agency nurses has always been a feature of the system and while it has been declining in recent years, there are sound operational reasons for such use. These reasons include making up for unexpected absences and dealing with short-term fluctuations in workflows.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Seán Ardagh

Question:

349 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Health and Children when an orthopaedic shower will be installed for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12. [8482/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

The provision of aids and appliances including orthopaedic showers is a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the regional chief executive officer, Eastern Regional Health Authority with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

Ministerial Orders.

The Deputy should note that diabetes is an eligible condition under the long-term illness, LTI, scheme. Through the LTI, a health board may make arrangements for the supply without charge of drugs, medicines and medical and surgical appliances for the treatment of eligible conditions. Applications should be made directly to the relevant board.

General Register Office.

Willie Penrose

Question:

353 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the legislation which exists for the issuing of birth certificates for births registered on or after 8 September 2003 in pursuance of section 2 of part 5 of the Schedule to the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002, which registration omits the date of birth of each parent. [8491/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Certified copies of entries in the register of births are issued in accordance with the provisions of the Births and Deaths Registration Acts 1863 to 1996, as amended.

The roll out of the new civil registration computer system commenced in Cork on 8 September 2003 and is being implemented on progressive basis in other registration offices. The necessary amendments to the Births and Deaths Registration Acts 1863 to 1996 to facilitate on line registration of births and deaths and the electronic production of certificates were enacted via the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002. A separate commencement order under that Act is required for the introduction of the new electronic registration system in each district.

The commencement orders provide that the particulars set out in section 2 of part 6 of the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002, which include the dates of birth of the mother and the father apply to the registration of a birth from the date of the commencement order. Particulars, including dates of birth of parents, are only registered and produced on a certificate, if they have been supplied by the qualified informant. These particulars may not be available in all cases, in particular where the occupier of a hospital acts as qualified informant. This is why parents should register the birth of their child.

Medical Cards.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

354 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will report on the progress to date on his discussions with the Survivors of Symphysiotomy, in particular with regard to the outcome of discussions between his Department and the ERHA and health boards and the Department of Social and Family Affairs, on a range of eligibility issues in respect of the provision of services and assistance to the patients. [8512/04]

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

372 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if medical cards will be granted to those persons who have had a symphysiotomy. [8618/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 354 and 372 together.

Arising from my discussions with the Survivors of Symphysiotomy, SOS, group, the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards have been working closely with the group to progress a range of service supports. In this regard, my Department has recently received a progress report from the chief executive officers' group, which includes proposals on GMS eligibility for patients on medical grounds. These proposals are being examined within my Department.

My Department has also sought advice from the Department of Social and Family Affairs, on behalf of these patients, on the eligibility criteria for social assistance allowances. The Department of Social and Family Affairs has offered to liaise directly with SOS in this regard, in order to expedite the processing of any claims that may be made.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

355 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will refer the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9 to the Northern Area Health Board for its investigation; the reasons the Mater Hospital has not responded to the repeated pleas of this person’s general practitioner to fully deal with this person’s needs; if he will now arrange for this person to have a hip replacement, if this cannot be catered for in the Mater Hospital, if he will make arrangements with St. Mary’s Hospital, Cappagh or another hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8513/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Responsibility for the provision of health services to persons living in counties Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to her directly.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

356 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are plans to extend, refurbish or repair the health centre at Brockagh, Cloghan, County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8514/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The identification, prioritisation and provision of health centres to meet the health and personal social service needs of local communities are matters for the health boards or the Eastern Regional Health Authority. In the case of the new health centre at Brockagh, Cloghan, County Donegal, this responsibility rests with the North Western Health Board.

The board has advised me that a proposal for a new health centre at Brockagh is at an advanced planning stage and that it will shortly be submitting this proposal to my Department for approval. When received, this proposal will be considered by my Department in the context of overall capital priorities for 2004 in line with funding resources available.

Health Board Services.

Denis Naughten

Question:

357 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 478 of 4 November 2003, if he has made a decision on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8515/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

Joe Sherlock

Question:

361 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received an application from the Southern Health Board for the appointment of a consultant geriatrician to Mallow General Hospital; his decision on this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8519/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The provision of hospital services, including the appointment of staff at Mallow General Hospital, is a matter for the Southern Health Board. An application for approval of a consultant geriatrician post has been submitted by the Southern Health Board to my Department. Funding for this consultant post will be considered in the context of available resources.

Hospital Services.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

362 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children the original financial allocation for 2002 and 2003 in respect of hospitals (details supplied); the number of in-patients treated; the average duration of stay; the total number of in-patient days; the estimated daily cost per in-patient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8520/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The distribution of funding to the hospitals mentioned by the Deputy is a matter for the Southern Health Board and my Department has asked the chief executive officer of the board to provide the relevant information directly to the Deputy.

The patient information requested by the Deputy for 2002 has been compiled from the hospital in-patient enquiry system, HIPE. Comparable information for 2003 is not yet available.

Hospital	Number of In-patients treated	Average duration of stay in days	Total number of in-patient days	Estimated daily cost per in-patient
				€
Cork University Hospital	23,656	6.34	149,934	746
South Infirmary/Victoria Hospital	8,090	6.42	51,977	465
Mercy University Hospital	10,856	6.61	71,733	516
Mallow General Hospital	4,268	5.35	22,826	475

Care should be exercised in the interpretation of this data, in particular the daily cost figures, as the case mix complexity can vary between hospitals.

Health Board Services.

Joe Higgins

Question:

363 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason persons with pulmonary hypertension in need of oxygen treatment equipment supplied by a company (details supplied) at a cost of €124.84 per month and portable oxygen kits at €50 per month have to wait six to eight weeks before this money, paid up front to the company, can be reimbursed by the local health board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8521/04]

Joe Higgins

Question:

364 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will take steps to speed up the process by which persons with pulmonary hypertension in need of oxygen treatment equipment at a cost of €124.84 per month and portable oxygen kits at €50 per month are reimbursed by the local health boards following an up front payment to the company supplying this equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8522/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 363 and 364 together.

The provision of oxygen and oxygen equipment to non-medical card patients is a matter for the individual health board. If the Deputy is aware of people experiencing difficulties he should contact the relevant health board with details of the claim.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

John Perry

Question:

365 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will ensure that a person (details supplied) in County Sligo is called for treatment to Sligo General Hospital in view of the deterioration in their condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8534/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Public Service Retirement Age.

Martin Ferris

Question:

373 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will include all current psychiatric students in the proposal to extend the retirement age for the profession from 55 to 65. [8619/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. Callely)

The Nursing Home (Subvention) Regulations 1993 are administered by the health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority. There are currently three rates of subvention payable, namely, €114.30, €152.40 and €190.50, for the three levels of dependency which are medium, high and maximum. Included in these payments is an increase of 25% which came into effect in April 2001.

A review of the nursing home regulations is currently underway involving all of the key stakeholders. The objective of the review is to: develop a scheme which will be transparent; offer a high standard of care for clients; provide equity within the system to include standardised dependency and means testing; be less discretionary; provide both a home and nursing home subvention depending on need; be consistent in implementation throughout the country; be financially sustainable; and draw on experience of the operation of the old scheme. Pending the outcome of the review, there are no plans to increase the current approved subvention rates.

A health board may pay more than the maximum rate of subvention relative to an individual's level of dependency in a case for example where personal funds are exhausted. The application of these provisions is a matter for the individual health board concerned in the context of meeting increasing demands for subvention within the board's revenue allocation as notified annually in the letters of determination. This is in keeping with the provisions of the Health (Amendment)(No. 3) Act 1996. The average rate of subvention paid by health boards generally exceeds the current approved basic rates.

Adoption Services.

Willie Penrose

Question:

377 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are adoption agencies apart from the health boards which can conduct home studies that would be approved by the Adoption Board, for persons who make applications to adopt children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8717/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan)

Adoption agencies registered with the Adoption Board can conduct home studies at present. Apart form the health boards, PACT is the only agency currently carrying out assessments.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

378 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has plans to devise and implement a three to five-year plan to address funding deficits in intellectual disability services; if he has received a submission from the East Coast Area Federation detailing the extent of its waiting lists; the funding required of same for both capital and current purposes; when he intends to address its funding needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8718/04]

Richard Bruton

Question:

388 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the trends in the waiting lists for different forms of service for persons with an intellectual disability over the past four years; if he will indicate his target for waiting times and waiting lists in respect of these services under the programme for Government; and if he has satisfied himself that progress in reducing waiting lists and waiting times is being achieved. [8824/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 378 and 388 together.

My Department has, since 1997, allocated significant levels of funding across the disability sector which has resulted in very significant and unprecedented developments in the quality and quantity of the health related services which are being provided to people with disabilities. A total of €643 million has been invested in these services, of which €388 million was provided for services to persons with intellectual disability and those with autism. The overall total includes an additional €25 million in current expenditure which was made available by the Minister for Finance in the 2004 budget for services for people with disabilities. A total of €18 million is being used by services for persons with intellectual disabilities and those with autism to provide extra day services particularly for young adults leaving school in June 2004, emergency residential placements and to enhance the health related support services available for children with intellectual disability or autism.

The national intellectual disability database shows that in 2002 there were 23,050 people with intellectual disability in receipt of specialised services, representing 90.6% of the total population registered on the database. There were 468 people — 1.8% of those registered — who were without services at that time and were identified as requiring appropriate services in the period 2003-07. This number had reduced by 47, or 9%, since 2001. The remaining 1,930 people, 7.6%, were not availing of services and had no identified requirement for services during the planning period 2003-07.

Since 1996 there has been significant growth in the level of provision of full-time residential services, residential support services and day services recorded on the national intellectual disability database, reflecting, in particular, the significant investment programme in the intellectual disability sector between 2000 and 2002. Key developments noted in the 2002 report include: a 37% growth in the number of people with intellectual disability living in full-time residential placements within local communities; a 165% increase in the provision of intensive placements designed to meet the needs of individuals with challenging behaviours; a 47% reduction in the number of people accommodated in psychiatric hospitals; a continued expansion in the availability of residential support services, in particular service-based respite services, which have grown by 255%, with an additional 443 people being reported as being in receipt of these services between 2001 and 2002 alone; and increased provision in almost all areas of adult day services and in the level of provision of support services delivered as part of a package of day services to both children and adults.

Despite the significant investment outlined, demographic factors are contributing to growing waiting lists for residential services in particular even though the numbers of people in receipt of services continues to increase. For example, in 1981 some 27% of persons with a moderate, severe or profound intellectual disability were aged 35 years and over and in 2002 the proportion of this population aged 35 and over has increased to 45%.

The increased birth rate in the 1960s and 1970s has resulted in large numbers of adults in their late 20s and early 30s requiring full-time residential services. In addition, people with an intellectual disability are living longer than previously, increasing the need for services compared to previous generations. This has also been the international experience in service provision to this population.

The need to provide for additional day places for young adults leaving school in 2003 and again in 2004 also reflects the increased adult profile of those requiring support from these services in that the numbers leaving the adult day services are not sufficient to free up places for younger persons coming through from the schools.

One of the major difficulties facing the health services in delivering support services to people with disabilities, is the shortage of certain professionals such as speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and psychologists. Significant progress has been achieved in boosting the number of therapy training places. Last year the Ministers for Education and Science and Health and Children announced 150 additional therapy training places in speech and language therapy and occupational therapy.

There has also been a concerted overseas recruitment drive on behalf of all health boards, the introduction of a fast track working visa scheme for health and social care professionals and the streamlining of procedures for the validation of overseas qualifications. The success of these measures is reflected in the increases in speech and language therapists and occupational therapists employed in the public health service over the three year period to end of 2002, with a 73% increase in occupational therapists and a 33% increases in speech and language therapists.

From the information outlined, it is clear that while significant progress has been made in recent years, there is a need for a continued programme of investment. I am not aware of any submission from the East Coast Area Federation.

Health Board Services.

Finian McGrath

Question:

379 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps he intends to take to assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 who is waiting for two stump boards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8814/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

The provision of aids and appliances including, stump boards are a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the regional chief executive officer, Eastern Regional Health Authority with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

Drugs Payment Scheme.

Willie Penrose

Question:

380 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the last review of the drugs repayments scheme took place in 1995 and since then there has been a significant increase in the instance of asthma, inflammatory bowel disease and other such illnesses, and that no State subvention or help is available towards their treatment; if, in this context, he will ensure that same is reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8815/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I assume that the Deputy is referring to the drugs payment scheme, DPS, which replaced the drug refund and drug cost subsidisation schemes in 1999, following a review of those schemes. The DPS is open to all individuals or families who do not hold a medical card. Under the DPS, no individual or family unit pays more than €78 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. As entitlements under the DPS are based solely on eligible expenditure, people suffering from the conditions mentioned by the Deputy have the same access to State support for the cost of drug treatment as any other member of the scheme. There are no plans to amend this position.

The provision of assistance in the circumstances outlined by the Deputy in County Kilkenny is a matter for the South Eastern Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

387 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when regular and continuous speech therapy will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare in view of the fact that they are attending mainstream school and are disadvantaged by the lack of speech therapy currently offered to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8823/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

The provision of health related services, including speech and language therapy, for people with physical and/or sensory disabilities is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards, in the first instance. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the chief executive officer of the Eastern Regional Health Authority with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy, as a matter of urgency.

Question No. 388 answered with QuestionNo. 378.

Jack Wall

Question:

389 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the date of an operation for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who has been on an emergency list since 3 October 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8825/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

There are, at present, six young people being cared for in City Lodge. The South Western Area Health Board has informed me that alternative placements have been identified for each of them including the young person referred to by the Deputy. The board has also assured me that City Lodge will not be closed down until the young people have been moved to their new accommodation.

Accident and Emergency Services.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

393 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the chaotic and dilapidated conditions in the accident and emergency Department of the Mater Hospital; his views on the appropriateness of very sick and vulnerable patients having to endure conditions where there are no adequate toilet or washing facilities and very poor catering arrangements, often for up to 48 hours, while awaiting a hospital bed; and the steps he will take to upgrade this Department, as a matter of urgency. [8869/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Responsibility for the funding of services at the Mater Hospital rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. At the outset, I should say that both my Department and the Eastern Regional Health Authority have accepted the need for upgrading of the accident and emergency department at the Mater Hospital. In October 2002 my Department approved a capital grant of €1.4 million for this purpose. This upgrading will, apart from benefiting Accident and Emergency patients, staff and clinical risk management in general, reduce hospital admissions and expand the available complement of hospital beds.

Due to the nature of the Accident and Emergency department, it was necessary to phase work on the project which commenced in April 2003. My Department is advised by the ERHA that a new three-bay resuscitation area and wound care clinic have now been completed while the final stages of the project, which relate to security and upgrade of the entrance, are expected to be completed shortly. It is acknowledged that, due to ongoing pressure in the Accident and Emergency department, programming of the project has been difficult. However, the Deputy will appreciate that clinical priorities have at all times needed to take precedence over project work.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Mary Upton

Question:

394 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 will be assisted in every way possible, in particular as they have been identified for an emergency residential placement. [8871/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

Responsibility for the provision of funding for services to persons with intellectual disabilities and those with autism in the Dublin region is a matter, in the first instance, for the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply directly to him.

Pharmacy Services.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

395 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the action he is prepared to take to ensure the continuation of the traditional pharmacist-owned pharmacy services in this country in view of the finding of the recently published pharmacy review group report that these types of pharmacies, which are the backbone of pharmacy services in this country, could disappear in a deregulated market. [8872/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

As Minister for Health and Children, my responsibilities centre on the provision of a high quality health service and this includes ensuring, in so far as possible, that adequate and accessible pharmacy services are generally available. I established the pharmacy review group in November 2001 to examine the pharmacy issues raised in the OECD report on regulatory reform in Ireland. The review group was asked principally to assess the existing statutory restrictions on entry to the community pharmacy sector, and to put forward options to address these issues. The group's report is available on my Department's website, www.doh.ie, along with reports prepared for the group by Indecon International Economic Consultants.

The opening and operation of retail pharmacies in Ireland is governed by the Pharmacy Acts, 1875 to 1977, subject to restrictions imposed by non-pharmacy legislation such as the planning Act. Pharmacies have not been exclusively pharmacist controlled since 1890. Any individual or company who satisfies the legal requirements, principally that the shop and the dispensing and compounding of medical prescriptions are personally supervised by a full-time pharmacist who is not acting elsewhere in a similar capacity, can open a pharmacy in Ireland.

I have been examining the complex legal and other issues surrounding the group's recommendations. The Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the report's recommendations before completion of this examination. However, the Deputy should note that the review group made only one proposal on restrictions on pharmacy ownership, which was in respect of beneficial ownership or business interests between dispensing and prescribing.

Health Board Services.

Jack Wall

Question:

396 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will receive orthodontic treatment in view of the urgency of such treatment for the person involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8909/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Responsibility for the provision of orthodontic treatment to eligible persons in County Carlow rests with the South Eastern Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply to him directly.

Hospital Services.

Phil Hogan

Question:

397 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will be appointing new consultants at St. Luke’s General Hospital, Kilkenny, in 2004 in view of the European Working Time Directive and the reduction of junior hospital doctors at that particular hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8910/04]

Phil Hogan

Question:

398 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a third paediatrician will be appointed to St. Luke’s General Hospital, Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8911/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 397 and 398 together.

The provision of hospital services, including the appointment of staff, at St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny, is a matter for the South Eastern Health Board. The board has submitted an application to my Department for approval of a third consultant paediatrician at St. Luke's Hospital. Funding for this post will be considered in the context of available resources.

As part of ongoing measures to achieve the required reductions in the average weekly on-site working hours of non-consultant hospital doctors, NCHDs, each hospital has been asked to map out the potential for reducing hours, the measures that could be taken to reduce hours and any associated resource requirements. It should be noted however, that the Hanly report points to change in work practices rather than the appointment of large numbers of additional consultants as the key means of reducing NCHD hours by 1 August 2004.

Disabled Drivers.

John Ellis

Question:

399 Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Health and Children if his Department will now withdraw the upper age limit of 65 years for people who are entitled to motorised transport grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8996/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

The guidelines in respect of the motorised transport grant were revised in July 2002, in accordance with recommendations by the national health board working group on disability related allowances/grants coming under the aegis of my Department.

The revised circular for the motorised transport grant states that all health boards may pay a grant towards the purchase of a car and/or adaptions to a car being purchased by a person with a severe disability who is 17 years or older and up to 65 years of age, where such a car is essential for him or her to obtain or retain employment. Self-employed persons who satisfy the criteria of eligibility may also be considered, subject to the above age limits. In cases where application is made on the basis of obtaining or retaining employment or self employment, the board must be satisfied that the applicant is capable of holding down a job, has the physical capacity to drive the vehicle and is qualified to hold a driver's licence, full or provisional. However, a qualified person with a disability who is incapable of driving or who has been medically advised not to drive and who has to be driven to and from his or her place of employment will only be considered eligible for a grant provided that he or she will be driven by another named person to and from his or her place of employment. The car must be purchased in the name of the person with a disability. The grant may also be considered in exceptional circumstances for a person with a severe disability, subject to the above age limits, who lives in a very remote location and whose disability impedes him or her from using public transport.

My Department's view is that the grant is primarily aimed at people with disabilities to enable them obtain or retain employment and, therefore, the upper age limit of 65 years of age is considered appropriate. The working group has made various recommendations in respect of the age limits and eligibility criteria for this grant including the withdrawal of the age limit where the motorised transport grant is paid due to "very remote location". I envisage that this issue will be addressed by the working group on the feasibility of introducing a cost of disability payment as part of a global review of mobility related allowances and benefits.

John Ellis

Question:

400 Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Health and Children if his Department would indicate an approximate date by which the interdepartmental working group on motorised transport will report. [8997/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

I am not aware of the working group referred to by the Deputy. The Deputy may be referring to the interdepartmental report on the disabled drivers and disabled passengers (tax concessions) scheme which was produced under the aegis of the Department of Finance.

Health Board Services.

Jack Wall

Question:

401 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of the original nine beds allocated for respite care by the South Western Area Health Board which are still dedicated for that purpose; the number of persons that have availed of the service in the past year; the number on the waiting list for such a service; the number of vacant beds at the hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9029/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. Callely)

The provision of health services in this area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the South Western Area Health Board acting under aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. As the information sought by the Deputy is not held in my Department, the regional chief executive of the authority has been asked to investigate the matter raised and provide the information requested, to my Department, as a matter of urgency. My Department will contact the Deputy when the information is to hand.

Jack Wall

Question:

402 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the reopening of the assessment and respite unit at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Athy, County Kildare; when this will occur, in view of the recent advertisements for nurses by the board and the reasons stated by the board that there were nurse shortages in the closing of the ward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9030/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. Callely)

The provision of health services in this area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the South Western Area Health Board acting under the aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. As the information sought by the Deputy is not held in my Department, the regional chief executive of the authority has been asked to investigate the matter raised and provide the information requested, to my Department, as a matter of urgency. My Department will contact the Deputy when the information is to hand.

Nursing Home Subventions.

Jack Wall

Question:

403 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of applications received by the South Western Area Health Board for enhanced subvention in the past year; the waiting list for such subvention; the plans he has to review the scheme in view of the imbalance of costs for nursing homes within the South Western Area Health Board region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9031/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. Callely)

The provision of health services in this area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the South Western Area Health Board acting under aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. As the information sought by the Deputy is not held in my Department, the regional chief executive of the authority has been asked to investigate the matter raised and reply direct to him as a matter of urgency.

A review of the nursing home regulations is currently underway involving all of the key stakeholders. The objective of the review is to develop a scheme which will be transparent, offer a high standard of care for clients, provide equity within the system to include standardised dependency and means testing, be less discretionary, provide both a home and nursing home subvention depending on need, be consistent in implementation throughout the country, be financially sustainable and draw on experience of the operation of the old scheme.

Health Board Services.

Pat Carey

Question:

404 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children if there has been a response from the chief executive officers of each health board or authority (details supplied) in respect of the charge by chiropodists to medical card holders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9032/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The health board chief executive officers have responded to my Department's request for a report on the arrangements for the provision of chiropody services by each health board. The report is being examined by my officials. The need for further action will be considered on completion of this examination.

Mental Health Services.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

405 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children if his attention has been drawn to the fact that, in County Wexford, the adult mental health services have no high support medium secure hostels or units, no psychologists, no social workers and no occupational therapists; his views on whether an adult mental health service without such resources is adequate to meet the needs of persons with mental illness or learning disabilities in County Wexford; when funding for the provision of such vital resources will be made available to the South Eastern Health Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9033/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

With regard to the Wexford mental health services, I am informed by the South Eastern Health Board that it has advertised for psychologists and these interviews are scheduled to take place in the near future. The board has also advised that interviews are taking place for the senior social worker post the week beginning 29 March and a basic grade post is due to be filled by a newly qualified social worker in May-June of this year.

The South Eastern Health Board has experienced difficulties filling the senior occupational therapy post and the post will be advertised again next week. However, the board expects to be in a position to offer a basic grade post to a newly qualified graduate in the near future.

The South Eastern Health Board acknowledges that there are ongoing difficulties in recruiting allied health professionals and a number of different recruitment initiatives have been implemented in an effort to recruit these grades. I am satisfied with the measures being taken by the South Eastern Health Board to overcome the current staffing difficulties which are not related to the provision of funding.

Within the Wexford mental health service there are two high support hostels for people who are in the process of being rehabilitated back into the community. However, there are no high support medium secure hostels or units for people with serious challenging behaviour. The provision of appropriate accommodation for this particular group of patients is being considered in the context of the development of a national capital framework programme currently under active consideration within my Department.

Health Board Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

406 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when assessment in respect of qualification for domiciliary care allowance will be completed in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare in respect of their child; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9034/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

The assessment of entitlement to and payment of the domiciliary care allowance in any individual case is a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, a copy of the Deputy's question has been forwarded to the chief executive officer of the Eastern Regional Health Authority with a request that he examine the case and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

Child Care Services.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

407 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 261 on 18 February 2004, the reason the information requested was not available; if he will now provide it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9035/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan)

The detailed information which the Deputy sought was not readily available in my Department. The information has since been furnished to my Department by the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards and I have communicated it to the Deputy.

Health Board Services.

Dan Neville

Question:

408 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 88 of 7 October 2003, No. 291 of 12 November 2003 and No. 273 of 4 February 2004, when domiciliary care allowance will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [9036/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

As previously stated in this case, the assessment of and entitlement to domiciliary care allowance is a matter for the relevant health board. I have contacted the Mid-Western Health Board on the Deputy's behalf and have been advised that this case is still under consideration and once more information is available the health board will contact the Deputy directly.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

409 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children on waiting lists for orthodontic treatment in the Eastern Regional Health Authority with the total numbers in each treatment category, and the numbers in each category who are waiting longer than six months, 12 months, two years, three years and four years or more; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9074/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The provision of orthodontic services is a matter for the health boards-authority, in the first instance.

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that I have taken a number of measures to improve orthodontic services in the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, area and on a national basis. The grade of specialist in orthodontics has been created in the health board orthodontic service. In 2003, my Department and the health boards funded 13 dentists from various health boards for specialist in orthodontics qualifications at training programmes in Ireland and at three separate universities in the United Kingdom. These 13 trainees for the public orthodontic service are additional to the six dentists who commenced their training in 2001. Thus, there is an aggregate of 19 dentists, including five from the ERHA, in specialist training for orthodontics. These measures will complement the other structural changes being introduced into the orthodontic service, including the creation of an auxiliary grade of orthodontic therapist to work in the orthodontic area.

Furthermore, the commitment of the Department to training development is manifested in the funding provided to both the training of specialist clinical staff and the recruitment of a professor in orthodontics for the Cork Dental School. This appointment at the school will facilitate the development of an approved training programme leading to specialist qualification in orthodontics. The chief executive officer of the Southern Health Board has reported that the professor commenced duty on 1 of December 2003. In recognition of the importance of this post at Cork Dental School, my Department has given approval in principle to a proposal from the school to further substantially improve the training facilities there for orthodontics. This project should see the construction of a large orthodontic unit and support facilities; it will ultimately support an enhanced teaching and treatment service to the wider region under the leadership of the professor of orthodontics. Orthodontic initiative funding of €2.044 million was provided to the ERHA in 2001 and this has enabled the authority to recruit additional staff and build additional orthodontic facilities.

In June 2002, my Department provided additional funding of €5 million from the treatment purchase fund to the health boards-authority specifically for the purchase of orthodontic treatment. This funding is enabling boards to provide both additional sessions for existing staff and purchase treatment from private specialist orthodontic practitioners. The ERHA received €1.815 million for the treatment of cases in this way.

The regional chief executive of the ERHA has informed my Department of the following information on the treatment waiting lists at the end of December 2003:

Treatment Waiting Lists
Area Health Board	Category A	Average waiting time (months)	Category B	Average waiting time (months)
South Western	644	< 10	474	< 12
East Coast	52	< 6	148	< 24
Northern	45	< 12	2,220	< 24

The management of waiting lists for orthodontic treatment in the ERHA is the responsibility of the regional chief executive. My Department has, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to provide the Deputy with a breakdown of the treatment waiting list as requested.

The chief executive officers of the health boards ERHA have informed my Department that at the end of the December quarter 2003, there were 21,727 children receiving orthodontic treatment in the public orthodontic service. This means that there are over twice as many children getting orthodontic treatment as there are children waiting to be treated and 4,432 extra children are getting treatment from the health boards ERHA since the end of 2001.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

410 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if the ERHA will indicate when a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9 will receive their orthodontic treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9075/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Responsibility for the provision of orthodontic treatment to eligible persons in Dublin 9 rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has asked the regional chief executive to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply to her directly.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Martin Ferris

Question:

411 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will facilitate the allocation of extra hours to existing services at the Child and Family Clinic, Brothers of Charity Services, Tralee. [9115/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

416 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the total cost to the exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9186/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

Eight events have been organised by my Department or agencies under its aegis in Ireland and one in Brussels since the Presidency began. The number of locations used for functions or receptions in conjunction with these eight events is eight.

To date, 654 persons approximately have attended Presidency health events. The attendees at events have included: member and accession state Health Ministers accompanied by senior policy and medical advisers; members of the advisory forum and management board of the European Food Safety Authority; experts from the competent authorities for the authorisation of medical devices from the EU member and accession and states and three EFTA countries; member state chief medical officers; representatives at policy making and expert level from member states in the area of cardiovascular health; representatives of non-governmental organisations and other stakeholder groups in the area of cardiovascular health; representatives of the World Health Organisation; representatives of the European Commission; representatives of the Irish food sector; and staff from the Department, the permanent representation of Ireland to the EU, the Irish Medicines Board, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland and the Food Safety Promotion Board. Garda motorcycle escorts were not requested or provided in respect of these events.

Invitations to the events concerned were issued by post and e-mail by my Department, the Irish permanent representation in Brussels, agencies under my Department's aegis and the European Food Safety Authority in the relevant cases. The costs invoiced or paid to date in respect of these events by my Department or agencies under its aegis is €267,478.

Hospital Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

417 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is on a waiting list for prostate surgery in Galway Regional Hospital or Mayo General Hospital. [9209/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

The provision of hospital services for people living in County Mayo is a matter for the Western Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the position in relation to this case and reply directly to him.

Nursing Education.

Michael Ring

Question:

418 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are plans in place to introduce a course for persons who have qualified in psychiatric nursing to further study in general nursing; if so, when this course will be available; and the centres in which this course will be available. [9210/04]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Martin)

I presume the Deputy is referring to the postgraduate general nursing course which was offered to registered psychiatric nurses, RPN, and registered mental handicap nurses, RMHN, who wished to train as general nurses.

A number of significant measures have been introduced to increase the supply of nurses to the Irish public health system in recent years. In order to provide more training places the schools of nursing at St. Michael's Hospital, Dún Laoghaire, and Tralee General Hospital, which had previously offered the postgraduate general nursing course were redesignated as pre-registration schools of nursing.

A significant development in nursing education was the commencement of the new four-year undergraduate nursing degree programme in thirteen higher education institutes in autumn 2002, with an approved annual intake of 1,640. The Government has approved capital investment in excess of €240 million to ensure the provision of purpose-built facilities for nursing students, with state-of-the-art clinical skills and human science laboratories. In addition, when the programme has a full cohort of students in 2006, the total annual revenue cost will be in excess of €90 million.

The number of training places has increased by 70% across the three disciplines of general, psychiatric and mental handicap nursing since 1998 as follows:

Discipline	1998	2004
General Nursing	759	1057
Psychiatric Nursing	92	343
Mental Handicap Nursing	117	240

The number of training places was increased in direct response to the identified needs of the services involved and is a key element of my overall strategy for ensuring that sufficient home-trained nurses are produced for our health services into the future.

As applications for the general nursing degree programme continue to greatly exceed the number of places available on the programme, I do not see the need at present for a postgraduate general nursing course. It is important to bear in mind that such a course would be primarily designed to cater for practising registered psychiatric and mental handicap nurses wishing to work as general nurses and, as such, would have the effect of withdrawing nurses from the mental health and intellectual disability services. The pre-registration nursing degree programmes, on the other hand, have the effect of attracting new entrants to the health service. I will keep the situation under review in the light of service requirements.

Tax Code.

Finian McGrath

Question:

419 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Transport if he will investigate the concerns regarding the on-line motor taxation in relation to a system for validating keyed in particulars of car insurance and the methodology of establishing road worthiness of vehicles in the absence of a requirement to submit details of an NCT certificate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8366/04]

Bernard Allen

Question:

421 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Transport if spot checks on the insurance policies of those who have renewed their motor tax via the new Internet service have been carried out; if so, the number of such spot checks that have occurred; [8545/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Dr. McDaid)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 419 and 421 together.

The information which is required to be entered and confirmed when making on-line arrangements for the payment of motor tax include details of the name of the insurance company, the date of expiry of the insurance policy and the number of the insurance policy. Arrangements for on-line renewal of motor tax have been made by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in consultation with local authorities and commenced generally from 1 March 2004. I understand that no spot checks on insurance details entered on-line have been carried out to date. The current arrangements are an interim measure pending the setting up of an interactive on-line mechanism for verifying insurance data supplied on-line.

The NCT status of vehicles liable to car testing is recorded on the national vehicle file maintained by the vehicle registration unit of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. However, the production of a NCT certificate when taxing a motor car has not been a requirement since December 2001 when, arising from an industrial dispute at National Car Testing Service Limited earlier that year which affected testing, some motorists were experiencing difficulties in arranging tests in sufficient time to obtain the NCT certificate needed for their motor tax application. On the resumption of normal testing service, the demand for the NCT indicated that restoration of the NCT-motor tax link was not necessary as NCT compliance rates were on a par with those for motor tax. If the compliance rates were to fall, it remains open to me to reinstate the requirement to have a valid NCT certificate for a liable motor car in order to renew motor tax.

National Car Test.

John Perry

Question:

420 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport the plans he has in place to have car wash facilities available in the NCT test centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8863/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Dr. McDaid)

I have no plans to require NCTS to provide car wash facilities at NCT test centres.

Question No. 421 answered with QuestionNo. 419.

Liz McManus

Question:

422 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to complaints relating the health and safety issues regarding the national car testing centre in Deansgrange, County Dublin, during the past five years; if so, the nature of these complaints; if they are being addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8282/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Dr. McDaid)

Under the contract for the provision and operation of the car testing service, National Car Testing Service Limited is required, inter alia, to comply with all enactments having force of law in the State, which includes health and safety legislation. Responsibility for the enforcement of health and safety legislation is a matter for the Health and Safety Authority.

Penalty Points System.

Jackie Healy-Rae

Question:

423 Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport the steps he intends to take to ensure that a written account is given to verify the speed a vehicle was allegedly travelling when accused of breaking the speed limit by a Garda using a hand-held device while manning a speed check; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8283/04]

Joe Higgins

Question:

439 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport if his Department will take measures to ensure that motorists observed breaking the speed limit are sent initial notification within two weeks of the offence being committed to encourage them to observe the speed limit during the months that elapse between the offence being committed and the issuing of penalty points. [8544/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 423 and 439 together.

Section 11 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 provides that where a member of the Garda Síochána has reasonable grounds for believing that a fixed charge offence is or has been committed, the member shall serve or cause to be served a fixed charge notice. Since 31 October 2002 the offence of breaking a speed limit falls within the remit of the fixed charge system. In the case of a detection for speeding, the fixed charge notice contains details of the speed that the vehicle was travelling at when detected and the speed limit in force at the relevant location. The issuing of fixed charge notices is a matter for the Garda Commissioner.

The Road Traffic Acts give broad scope to the Garda Commissioner in respect of the use of equipment in the enforcement of speed limits. Decisions relating to the type of equipment used by the Garda and the deployment of such equipment are operational matters for the Garda Commissioner.

A particular period of time after the alleged commission of an offence is not provided for in the Road Traffic Acts in respect of the issue of a fixed charge notice on the grounds that more than one notice may be required in certain circumstances. Where a detection is made that does not involve a direct interception by a member of the Garda, the fixed charge notice must be issued to the registered owner. Where the owner was not driving the vehicle at the time of the alleged commission of the offence he or she may, within 28 days of the date of the notice, nominate the driver who may then be served with a notice.

Air Services.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

424 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Transport if it is proposed to review the PSO to regional airline services following a recent report by a company (details supplied); his plans for the future State subsidisation of these services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8304/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

The report to which the Deputy refers is the review of air services supported by the essential air services programme — public service obligation, PSO, routes. DKM Economic Consultants were commissioned by my Department to undertake the review under the Government's expenditure review initiative.

EU Council Regulation (EEC) No. 2408/92 allows member states to establish a PSO in respect of scheduled air services to an airport serving a peripheral or development region where such air services are considered essential for the economic development of the regions concerned and where air carriers are not prepared to provide such air services on a commercial basis. In accordance with this EU regulation, the Government has established PSOs on six routes linking Dublin Airport with the airports in Kerry, Galway, Knock, Sligo, Donegal and Derry. The total cost of subvention amounts to over €20 million per annum. The purpose of the DKM review was to evaluate the degree to which the objectives of the PSO air service programme warrant the ongoing allocation of Exchequer support and to examine the scope for alternative policy or new approaches to achieving the objectives on a more efficient and cost effective basis.

I am currently exploring ways of restructuring PSO specifications and contractual arrangements to ensure that, in the long term, an appropriate level of air access to the regions can be facilitated on a cost-effective basis, within the annual Estimates provision, while also encouraging maximum commercial initiative on the part of the regional airports and air operators. I intend to bring proposals to Government later this year and to re-launch a revised specification for services on all six routes to commence in mid-July 2005.

Ministerial Appointments.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

425 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Transport the number of staff appointed by him, from outside the Civil Service, since the general election in 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8335/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

Details of staff (including salary costs and expenses paid) appointed by me from outside the Civil Service, since the general election in 2002, are set out in the following tables. The role of the staff concerned is set out hereunder.

The role of my special adviser is to keep me informed on a wide range of issues including business, policy, political and administrative, along with monitoring the objectives of the Department and liaison with interested parties in all relevant areas.

The role of my press officer is to deal with all media queries, research and prepare press releases and media information, monitor all areas of transport in the media and liaise with all sections in the Department on the dissemination of information that will be of benefit to the general public.

The role of the personal assistants is to assist in providing support and advice for the administrative responsibilities of the Minister of State and me.

The role of the personal secretaries is to act as Oireachtas secretary dealing with constituency matters and the role of the civilian driver is to drive for the Minister of State.

Table of appointments made by Deputy Brennan, Minister for Transport, for his office.
Grade/ Job Title	Total Salary Cost per Annum	Total cost of Expenses(from June 2002 to date)
	€	€
1 x Personal Assistant	33,685	Nil
1 x Personal Secretary	36,160	Nil
1 x Press Officer	86,314	Nil
1 x Special Advisor	80,457	18,870.93

Table of appointments made by Deputy Brennan, Minister for Transport, for the office of Deputy McDaid, Minister of State at the Department of Transport.
Grade/Job Title	Total Salary Cost per Annum	Total cost of Expenses(from June 2002 to date)
	€	€
1 x Personal Assistant	39,781	2,275.94
1 x Personal Secretary (Temporary, to Cover maternity Leave)	469.20 per week	Nil
1 x Personal Secretary	24,483	Nil
2 x Civilian Drivers	26,468 each	11,252.72

The offence in question currently comes within the scope of the on-the-spot fines system. The amount of the on-the-spot fine applicable to this offence is €19 which is the level that applies to the majority of parking offences. Where an on-the-spot fine notice is issued, it is open to the person to whom the notice is addressed to pay the relevant amount so as to avoid the matter proceeding to court.

The Road Traffic Act 2002 provides for the replacement of the current on-the-spot fines system by a fixed charge system. The new system which already applies to the offences of exceeding a speed limit and breaching the requirements for the use of seat belts brings greater certainty to the application of administrative charges in respect of offences. It features, in particular, a provision through which the original amount of the fixed charge will automatically increase by 50% where payment is not made within 28 days of the date of the original notice.

The roll-out of the system to the majority of traffic and parking offences including the offence of parking in a disabled persons' parking bay is being progressed in conjunction with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda authorities. I envisage that this process will feature the updating of the charges associated with parking offences generally including this offence.

Rail Accidents.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

436 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if his railway safety inspecting officer has commenced an investigation into the deaths of two persons on the Luas line at Naas Road and Davitt Road, Dublin 12; if his Department has received a preliminary report from the inspecting officer and the RPA; if not, the reason therefor; if he will outline the details available to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8523/04]

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

441 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the huge public concern being expressed in Tallaght and elsewhere arising from the recent sad deaths on the Luas lines on Davitt Road and the Naas Road; his views on whether there are clear safety issues to be addressed; if he will seek a report from the Railway Procurement Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8581/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 436 and 441 together.

As the Deputies are aware, responsibility for the day to day management of the Luas project rests with the Railway Procurement Agency, RPA. However, the RPA has assured me that it and the Luas contractors are committed to ensuring the safety of traffic management measures which must be put in place to facilitate Luas works. As Garda investigations are still ongoing into the road traffic accidents on the Naas Road and Davitt Road it would be inappropriate at this stage to comment further on the matter.

Road Traffic Regulations.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

437 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport the reason motor bikes and scooters are not allowed to use bus lanes, thus forcing them into normal heavy city traffic; if he intends to raise this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8542/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

The use of bus lanes in this country is provided for in the Road Traffic (Traffic & Parking) Regulations 1997, the primary purpose of which is to facilitate and promote bus based public transport. These regulations generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists. Having regard to the role of taxis in providing on-street immediate hire service an exemption to that limitation is allowed in respect of taxis when they are being used in the course of business.

An overriding concern is the carrying capacity of bus lanes and the potential that their primary role to provide bus priority could be undermined if other vehicles are allowed access.

I have received representations seeking to extend access to bus lanes to a wide range of other road users, including hackney and limousine operators and motorcyclists. I do not have any immediate proposals to review the question of extending access to bus lanes to other road users. However, as I have indicated on previous occasions in this House, I will review the question when the number of bus lanes has doubled.

Driving Licences.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

438 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Transport when it is envisaged to introduce the proposed plastic card type driving licence; if he will give consideration to availing of this opportunity to allow persons to indicate on the cards whether they are organ donors; his views on whether this would increase the awareness of organ donation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8543/04]

John Gormley

Question:

440 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether the new driving licence format should include an opt-out from organ donation rather than the current opt-in. [8567/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 438 and 440 together.

The paper format driving licence currently in use contains an optional section where the licence holder may, if he or she so wishes, indicate consent to be an organ donor.

I propose to introduce a plastic card licence, tenders for which are currently being considered by my Department. Consideration will be given as part of development of the card licence system as to whether optional information regarding organ donation might be recorded on the card licence. In the context of organ donation, I consider that it would be more appropriate for a prospective organ donor to positively consent to donation as is currently provided for.

Question No. 439 answered with QuestionNo. 423.

Question No. 440 answered with Question No. 438.

Question No. 441 answered with QuestionNo. 436.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

442 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport the amount of money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the amount of money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access services of his Department. [8646/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Dr. McDaid)

A catalytic converter forms part of a vehicle's overall emission control system and is designed to treat vehicle engine gases by removing harmful pollutants. The emissions element of the NCT measures the exhaust gases of a vehicle for compliance with specified limit values. Failure of the NCT for exceeding a specified emission limit value could arise for a number of reasons, including a defective catalytic converter. However, as the NCTS is not a diagnostic service for vehicle faults, identification of individual factors contributing to the failure of a car on emissions grounds does not form part of the NCT and accordingly no such data on defective catalytic converters is available.

All new cars sold in the European Union must have Whole Vehicle Type Approval, WVTA. WVTA requires cars to meet the requirements set out in a series of separate type-approval directives including Directive 70/220/EEC, as amended, relating to vehicle emissions. This directive provides for the type-approval of emissions systems including catalytic converters.

Rail Services.

Denis Naughten

Question:

446 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the discussions he has had with Irish Rail regarding the potential for the development of its rail freight business; the plans he has to provide specific rail freight grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8849/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

449 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport the position on the provision of seat belts in school buses; if the Minister has provided a mechanism to monitor such a provision; the guidelines the Minister has put in place in relation to monitoring such a provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8918/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Dr. McDaid)

The Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles) (Amendment) No. 3 Regulations 1991 require, inter alia, the compulsory fitment of anchorages and safety belts for use by the driver and each passenger in a forward facing front seat of buses up to 3,500 kg maximum weight that were first registered since 1 January 1992. The requirements do not distinguish between school buses and any other buses. Other buses or coaches are not at present required to be equipped with seatbelts either under EU or Irish law.

In 2003 the European Commission published proposals to amend a number of directives relating to the type approval requirements for safety belts and restraint systems, anchorages for safety belts, and seats, their anchorages and head restraints. These proposals provide, inter alia, for the mandatory fitment of seatbelts in all buses and coaches, other than those used on staged-stop urban services, at manufacturing stage for the purposes of obtaining motor vehicle type approval. Under the proposals it would be a requirement for the registration, sale or entry into service of new buses and coaches, from 1 January 2006, that their safety belts and restraint systems, anchorages for safety belts, and seats, their anchorages and head restraints would conform with the technical requirements specified in the proposed amending directives. It is not proposed nor would it be feasible for technical reasons to fit seatbelts to existing buses. It is expected that the proposals will be considered at Council shortly with a view to the adoption of a common position by member states.

The operation of the school transport scheme is provided and operated by Bus Éireann under contract from the Department of Education and Science. In 2002, my Department published a discussion paper on school bus safety to which a large number of responses was received. These are now being reviewed with a view to identifying a cost effective approach to enhancing road safety for school transport.

Air Services.

Denis Naughten

Question:

450 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the contingency plan which Aer Rianta has in place to ensure that industrial action does not stop the operation of flights, in line with the Government direction of six years ago; the reason this was not put in place for the industrial action on 18 March 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9003/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I am pleased that SIPTU decided to call off its threatened industrial action at the three State Airports on Thursday last. I believe that any such action is unnecessary and unjustified and I look forward to a resumption of the engagement process between the unions and my Department, under the chairmanship of an LRC official, at which issues of concern to Aer Rianta workers arising from the restructuring of the company can be further discussed.

My Department is currently reviewing the position regarding contingency planning by Aer Rianta to deal with industrial action affecting State airports. I have directed my officials to consult in that regard with Aer Rianta and the Irish Aviation Authority and to seek to elicit also the views of the airlines. In light of recent events, I have directed my officials to report to me on these matters as a matter of urgency.

Public Transport.

Denis Naughten

Question:

451 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport when a decision will be made on the outstanding 2003 applications for bus licences and authorisations in view of recent discussions at the Oireachtas committee; when a decision will be made on an application (details supplied) which has been with his Department for over seven months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9058/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

During the course of 2003, a total of 196 applications were received for new passenger licences or amendments to existing licences representing an increase of nearly 100% on 2002. The Department succeeded in dealing with 139 of these applications, as well as concluding assessment of a substantial backlog of applications from previous years. A total of 57 were carried forward into 2004. Of these, 26 have been processed to date. All but one of the remaining 31 applications are currently under consideration and these are expected to be cleared by end May subject to the retention of existing bus licensing staff and the timely provision of any further information by applicants where necessary.

The particular notification referred to in the Deputy's question is one of only three notifications, of a total of 157 received from the CIE bus companies during 2003, upon which a decision had to be deferred pending clearance of a prior application for a passenger licence from a private operator. The Department expects to be in a position to make a decision on the case involved by the end of this month.

Denis Naughten

Question:

452 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the introduction of bus competition outside Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9059/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I set out my policy proposals for public transport reform in statements to the Public Transport Partnership Forum in November 2002 and the Oireachtas committee on transport in June 2003. It is my intention that all public transport outside the greater Dublin area be subject to independent economic regulation. I also propose to establish an independent procurement and regulatory body for public transport on a national basis.

I have considered the many comprehensive submissions to my Department following the publication of the consultant's report commissioned by my Department, entitled Regulation of Bus Services Outside the Greater Dublin Area. It is my intention to bring forward detailed proposals in the near future having regard to the ongoing discussions on public transport reform with the CIE unions.

Driving Tests.

Denis Naughten

Question:

453 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the number of vacancies within his Department for driving testers; the plans he has to fill these positions and to recruit additional testers; the number of contract testers and the plans he has to appoint them on a permanent basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9060/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

The authorised number of driver testers, including supervisory testers, a chief tester and 20 contract driver testers, is 130. Currently, there are seven driver tester vacancies and one contract driver tester vacancy. The Department keeps the level of vacancies under review having regard to current and future requirements of the driver testing service.

Denis Naughten

Question:

454 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the plans he has to introduce a bonus scheme for driving testers to address the current backlog; the details of the scheme in place in 2003 and its success; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9061/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

The bonus scheme for driver testers introduced in June 2003 provided for bonus payments per additional test conducted. Payment was conditional on delivering a minimum number of additional tests. Three driver testers opted to participate in the scheme and 1,050 additional tests were delivered under the scheme. The possibility of introducing a further bonus scheme in 2004 is currently being considered.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

455 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the total cost to the exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9187/04]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Brennan)

I have not hosted any events as yet in connection with Ireland's Presidency of the EU. However there will be an event involving the signing of the European Road Safety Charter in Dublin Castle on 6 April next. All EU Ministers for Transport, including the accession countries, have been invited to attend with a number of ancillary organisations. The Vice President of the European Commission and the President of the European Parliament have also been invited to attend.

All invitations were sent by the postal service. It is unlikely that Garda motorcycle escorts will be necessary. As this event is yet to take place the cost is not yet known.

Child Care Services.

Joe Higgins

Question:

456 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the establishment of quality, community based, State-run child care facilities as a matter of urgency in order that parents have no problems in securing child care places, which are very expensive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8418/04]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

501 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the claim that Irish parents are spending an average of €800 per month on child care for one child, and much higher than this in many cases; if information is collected by his Department on the typical child care costs for Irish families; if so, will he provide the latest information on such costs to the House; the action he is taking to reduce child care costs; if his attention has further been drawn to the enormous disincentive for parents in taking up or continuing in employment, especially if they have two children, because of child care costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8831/04]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

502 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the assistance on offer from the State to parents to cover child care costs while they are at work. [8832/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 456, 501 and 502 together.

The Deputy will be aware that there have been very significant developments in the provision of supports for the development of child care in recent years. Child care was identified as a priority area for investment in the National Development Plan 2000-2006 and the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006, EOCP, was launched by my Department in April 2000 to support the development of a range of child care facilities to enable parents to remain in or return to employment, education and training. We are aware that, at the turn of the century, there were approximately 56,000 centre based child care places in Ireland.

When all the EOCP 2000-06 funding is drawn down, I expect that we will have supported at least 30,000 additional places, benefiting every county. The current EOCP is a seven year programme which aims to maintain and increase the number of child care facilities and places, improve the quality of child care services and introduce a co-ordinated approach to the delivery of child care services to meet the diverse childcare needs of parents in employment, education or training.

Total funding allocated to my Department for these purposes during the seven year period of the programme is €437 million for a diverse but strategically focused range of measures including capital grants, staffing supports for community facilities in disadvantaged areas and projects designed to improve the quality of childcare. The total funding committed under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006, in the period up to 28 February 2004, is more than €254.3 million. Over 2,000 grants have been awarded to date to child care providers and community groups which will, when fully drawn down, lead to the creation of 28,002 new child care places and will also support over 26,500 existing places. Much of the unallocated funding is already earmarked for second phases of existing projects, particularly as a contribution to the staffing costs of community based child care facilities which offer services to disadvantaged families.

At the request of my Department, the Central Statistics Office included a module on child care in its 2002 quarterly national household survey. The survey found that for families with pre-school children only, the average cost of child care was about €105, while the average weekly cost for families using child care for school going children only was almost €76 per week. For families using a mix of child care, the average weekly cost was found to be €107.37. The Deputy will also be aware that child benefit supports made available by my colleague, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, have been increased very significantly in recent years to support parents in their choices with regard to the care of their children. The programme for Government and the progress of my Department's equal opportunities childcare programme are confirmation of the Government's commitment to developing child care and keeping it at the forefront of its social agenda.

Sign Language.

Enda Kenny

Question:

457 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Government intends to recognise Irish sign language as an official language of the State within the Constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8470/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Two forms of sign languages are commonly in use in this country. The Commission on the Status of People with Disabilities received a broad range of submissions from the different disability organisations and from individuals, including proposals for the recognition of Irish sign language as the language of deaf citizens and for education to be provided to deaf children through Irish sign language. The commission pointed to the need for sign language to be recognised but did not recommend inclusion as an official language or specify a particular form of sign language.

Arising from its deliberations the commission made proposals relating to the education of deaf children and access to further education options through sign language. In this regard, the Education Act 1998 made provision for support services in respect of students learning through Irish sign language or any other sign language, including interpreting services. The Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill 2003, which is currently before the Oireachtas, addresses the provision of services for children in education, focusing on the assessment of the needs of the individual child and this may include the consideration of appropriate sign language services.

While I support appropriate measures to further social inclusiveness for people with disabilities, there are no current proposals to give recognition to Irish sign language as a third official language.

Garda Stations.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

458 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a Garda station in Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8995/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I understand from the Garda authorities that there are no current plans to undertake works at Carndonagh Garda station. However, the accommodation needs of the gardaí there will be kept under continuing review by the Garda authorities.

Garda Security Escorts.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

459 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he intends to review the costs incurred by the Exchequer originating in security provided for banks and other lending institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9138/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

As regards costs associated with cash escorts carried out by the Garda Síochána, following negotiations between the banks and my Department last year, the banks agreed to increase their contributions to these costs from €952,000 in respect of 2002 and previous years to €3,000,000 in respect of 2003.

It was also agreed that further discussions would occur about the level of contributions to be made by the banks in future years and my Department is currently pursuing this matter.

Asylum Applications.

Mary Upton

Question:

460 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review a deportation order in regard to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will give consideration to this person’s situation. [8253/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

463 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the powers of the Garda Síochána in dealing with noise pollution in urban areas or centres of population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8307/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The legislation on noise pollution is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Cullen. His Department has issued a leaflet entitled A Guide to the Noise Regulations which outlines the steps to be taken where a person is experiencing nuisance caused by noise.

While this is primarily a civil matter and rests outside the remit of the Garda Síochána, the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 2003 provides that application may be made by the Garda to the District Court for a closure order on a catering premises for certain reasons including continuous loud noise emanating from such premises.

Crime Prevention.

Tony Gregory

Question:

464 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda authorities will provide a report regarding a spate of car vandalism in recent weeks in the East Wall area of Dublin 3; the action the Garda has taken on this matter; if Garda patrols are adequate to deal with this problem; if they can be increased; if there is evidence that some of the attacks are racially motivated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8308/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that from 9 February to 11 March 2004 there were 11 reported incidents of car vandalism in the East Wall area. There is no evidence at this stage that these incidents are racially motivated.

I understand that local Garda management has responded to these incidents by deploying a mobile unit in the area consisting of three uniformed gardaí specifically tasked with addressing the problem of car vandalism. This unit is in addition to the normal foot and mobile patrols in the area from divisional crime task force, divisional traffic unit, detective patrols, community police units and regular uniform patrols.

I am assured that local Garda management are satisfied that there are adequate resources deployed to deal with the problems highlighted.

Garda Deployment.

Tony Gregory

Question:

465 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí specifically assigned to anti-drug measures in the Cabra area of K district, Dublin 7; the number of gardaí in the drug unit covering the entire K district; the areas and the population covered by this unit; the Garda’s views on whether the drug problem is on the increase in this area; if additional Garda resources might be assigned to it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8309/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the K district drug unit covers the Cabra, Finglas and Blanchardstown areas and that the current personnel strength of the K district drug unit is nine, all ranks. I am further informed that the current personnel strength, all ranks, of Cabra Garda station as at 22 March 2004 is 65.

The approximate population of the K district is as follows:

Station	Population
Blanchardstown	80,000
Finglas	20,000
Cabra	20,000

Garda management in the K district state that there is no apparent increase in the drug problem in the area and are satisfied that the current strength of the K district drug unit is adequate to address the drugs issues there.

All gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to deal with drug related matters as they arise. I am assured by the Garda authorities that the situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Cabra Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.

Registration of Title.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

466 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position of an application for registration for persons (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8310/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for transmission of part which was lodged on 6 October 2003 — dealing No. D2003WS009387E refers. I am further informed that this application was completed on 25 February 2004.

Ministerial Appointments.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

467 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of staff appointed by him, from outside the Civil Service, since the general election 2002; the job descriptions for these staff; the salaries and expenses paid to these staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8336/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The details of staff appointed by me from outside the Civil Service since the general election 2002, in accordance with guidelines for staffing of ministerial offices, are as follows:

1 Special Adviser — annual salary €83,690

1 Personal Secretary — annual salary €36,159.70

1 Personal Assistant — annual salary €38,653

In addition a total of €4,526 has been paid to the special adviser for travel and subsistence over a 21 month period.

Garda Deployment.

Seán Crowe

Question:

468 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the massive amounts of cocaine available in the Cabra and Phibsborough areas of Dublin; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that there are only six drugs officers assigned to the whole K district, which covers Finglas, Cabra and Blanchardstown; and if, in the context of the Government’s pledge to provide 2,000 extra gardaí, extra resources and personnel will be allocated to tackle the rising drugs problem in these areas. [8371/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that there is no apparent recent increase in availability of cocaine in the areas covered by the K district nor is there evidence to suggest that there are massive amounts of cocaine available in those areas. Garda management in the K district is satisfied that the current strength of the K district drug unit is adequate to address the drug issues there. The strength of the unit is kept under constant review. Other operational gardaí, both uniformed and plain clothes, in the K district are also active in fighting drug misuse.

The current personnel strength of the K district as at 22 March 2004 is 267, all ranks. The current personnel strength of the K district drug unit is nine, all ranks.

I am assured by the Garda authorities that the situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of K district will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the country.

Sexual Offences.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

469 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will outline the legislation regarding prostitution; the number of persons who have been arrested or convicted in the Dublin area in the past three years for providing or paying for such services; and the breakdown by geographical area. [8389/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

As the Deputy may be aware, prostitution is not in itself a crime. Section 7 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 1993 creates a summary offence of soliciting or importuning for the purposes of prostitution. Subsequent sections of the Act 8, 9, 10, and 11 deal with other offences in relation to prostitution.

I have made inquiries with the Garda authorities regarding the number of offences where proceedings commenced and the number of persons convicted in the Dublin area for years 2002 and 2003 for breaches of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 1993. The information provided by the Garda authorities is outlined in the following table.

It should be noted that these statistics relate to two Garda divisions in the Dublin metropolitan region only as no offences were recorded in the other Dublin divisions. Statistics for year 2001 were not recorded on the PULSE system and it is therefore not possible to provide a breakdown on a divisional basis for 2001.

Breaches of Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act, 1993
	2002	2003*
	North Central	South Central	North Central	South Central
Details of Offences where proceedings were commenced	Proceedings Commenced	Persons Convicted	Proceedings Commenced	Persons Convicted	Proceedings Commenced	Persons Convicted	Proceedings Commenced	Persons Convicted
Soliciting/importuning for Commission of Sexual Offence (Section 6)	0	0	0	0	2	0	0	0
Soliciting/Importuning for Prostitution (Section 7)	117	29	102	47	115	16	52	11
Loitering for Prostitution (Section 8)	32	9	41	9	36	2	17	3

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

472 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the religious, ethnic and cultural division which originally forced a person (details supplied) in County Kildare to seek asylum here; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that these dangers still exist and that a return to their native land will be life threatening; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8426/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I refer to my replies to Questions Nos. 171 of 23 October 2003 and 173 of 6 November 2003 concerning this case. A decision in this case will be made having regard to the factors specified in section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and to the prohibition on refoulement contained in section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended. The persons concerned will be informed of my decision in due course.

Health Board Services.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

473 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received correspondence on behalf of ten school principals in Dún Laoghaire concerning the discharge of unaccompanied students from the care of the East Coast Area Health Board; the consideration he has given to the case made by the principals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8427/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have received the correspondence referred to by the Deputy. The care of unaccompanied minors is the statutory responsibility of the health boards and my Department has no role whatsoever in this regard. In the Eastern Regional Health Authority Area, the East Coast Area Health Board, ECAHB, carries out this function for the three local area health boards.

The Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2003 which commenced on 27 May 2003 restricts the awarding of a rent supplement to asylum seekers. Guidance issued to health boards by the Department of Social and Family Affairs — SWA Circular No. 02/03 — stipulates that, where unaccompanied minor asylum seekers reach 18 years of age and are discharged from the care of a health board, they should be offered placement in adult direct provision accommodation.

Arising from this, when unaccompanied minors reach 18 years of age and are discharged by the health boards from their care they are provided with direct provision accommodation by the Reception and Integration Agency, RIA, which operates under the aegis of my Department.

It should be noted, however, that a health board, in line with the provisions of social welfare legislation, may exercise discretion and retain persons in its accommodation who have attained 18 years of age where there is a determination that the individual is vulnerable or does not have a sufficient level of maturity to be accommodated in an adult facility.

To date the RIA has arranged placements for approximately 150 former unaccompanied minors in direct provision accommodation at the request of the ECAHB. In addition, the RIA has also arranged a small number of placements in such accommodation in the Cork city area at the request of the Southern Health Board. The RIA, in consultation with the dedicated social work team of the ECAHB working with unaccompanied minors, has made a major effort to ensure that former unaccompanied minors who are second level students are facilitated in continuing to attend school by effecting placements close to their previous health board accommodation.

During the February mid-term break a senior official from the RIA attended meetings with former unaccompanied minors who had been relocated to direct provision accommodation to discuss what further initiatives could be put in place to facilitate their continuance in education. The RIA also engaged in discussions with VECs, Southside Partnership, Dún Laoghaire Refugee Support Group, Northern Area Health Board, NAHB and the ECAHB to identify ways to improve transitional supports for former unaccompanied minors attending school.

Arising from these discussions study facilities are being enhanced in direct provision centres. It is also intended to improve tutor supports for leaving certificate students. In the context of transitional supports the NAHB will ensure that all leaving certificate students in direct provision receive appropriate SWA payments. In addition every full-time student is being advised to avail of their entitlement to child benefit up to 19 years of age.

Further referrals of former unaccompanied minors are due to take place over the coming months and I am informed by the RIA that they will discuss with the ECAHB if referrals of examination students can be deferred until the State examinations have been completed in late June 2004.

Refugee Status.

Damien English

Question:

474 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application by a person (details supplied) for leave to remain on humanitarian grounds; if their reasons for remaining will be taken into consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8442/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The person referred to in the question and her child were refused refugee status in the State following consideration of their case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and on appeal by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.

A notification under section 3(3)(a) of the Immigration Act 1999 issued to the person on 24 February 2004 in which they were advised that the Minister had decided to refuse them a declaration as refugees and setting out the options now open to them, that is, to leave the State before the Minister decided whether or not to make deportation orders in respect of them; to consent to the making of deportation orders in respect of them or to make written representations to the Minister setting out reasons they should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.

To date no response has been received from the applicant or her legal advisers. I will shortly consider their case for deportation under section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement). Any representations received in time by, or on behalf of, the persons will be taken into consideration.

Parental Rights.

Pat Breen

Question:

475 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Clare regarding the legal rights of a separated father; if he intends to take action on it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8448/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I can confirm that I have received and replied to the letter referred to by the Deputy. The attention of the correspondent has been drawn to certain statutory provisions and it has been suggested to him that he obtain legal advice as to whether he could avail himself of these provisions or of any other possible remedy.

Missing Persons.

Seán Power

Question:

476 Mr. S. Power asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if progress has been made on the search for missing women in the Leinster area; the lessons which have been learned as a result of Operation Trace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8504/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Cabra
Year	Strength
1994	84
1995	87
1996	81
1997	85
1998	80
1999	76
2000	80
2001	82
2002	78
2003	75
2004	65

Mountjoy
Year	Strength
1994	86
1995	80
1996	77
1997	80
1998	73
1999	84
2000	74
2001	74
2002	75
2003	80
2004	85

Whitehall
Year	Strength
1994	42
1995	39
1996	42
1997	43
1998	45
1999	42
2000	39
2001	43
2002	39
2003	41
2004	40

Fitzgibbon Street
Year	Strength
1994	97
1995	103
1996	113
1997	119
1998	109
1999	118
2000	107
2001	107
2002	110
2003	108
2004	119

Bridewell
Year	Strength
1994	159
1995	154
1996	145
1997	141
1998	149
1999	157
2000	162
2001	161
2002	153
2003	156
2004	163

Store Street
Year	Strength
1994	208
1995	196
1996	191
1997	190
1998	218
1999	227
2000	232
2001	232
2002	221
2003	219
2004	261

In addition, national units greatly augment the operational requirements of the Dublin metropolitan region on a day to day basis and perform a very considerable amount of their duties within the region.

With regard to the Deputy's request for crime figures for each of these six Garda Stations over the ten year period in question, crime figures for each of these individual stations are not available. Crime statistics are published on a Garda divisional basis in the annual reports of the Garda Síochána which are available in the Oireachtas Library.

Registration of Title.

John Perry

Question:

480 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application by a person (details supplied) in County Sligo will be expedited; if he will make a decision on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8510/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

As I indicated in my reply to the Adjournment Debate on 12 November 2003, Fort Mitchel will resume its role as a closed detention centre in the event that agreement is reached with the Prison Officers' Association on sensible work practices and an annualised hours system which is good for staff and the Prison Service as a whole. This remains my position. I would envisage setting out a timetable for the re-opening of Fort Mitchel if there is a satisfactory conclusion to the ongoing talks with the Prison Officers' Association in the Labour Relations Commission.

Proposed Legislation.

Seán Haughey

Question:

484 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the introduction of a disability Bill; if this Bill will be rights-based; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8590/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

It is my intention, in accordance with the commitment given in An Agreed Programme for Government, to circulate a disability Bill as soon as possible in the coming weeks. Given the complex and cross cutting issues involved, the preparation of the Bill is being overseen by the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion.

The disability Bill is a key part of the framework being put in place by the Government to underpin the equal participation by people with disabilities in Irish society. The framework includes: the Education for Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2003 which is on Report Stage in the Dáil; the Comhairle (Amendment) Bill which is being prepared in the Department of Social and Family Affairs in relation to the provision of advocacy; sectoral plans for key public services; and equality legislation, currently being updated by the Equality Bill 2004, which is about to commence Second Stage in the Dáil.

Following concerns expressed by interest groups, the Government agreed to further consultations about the disability Bill 2001 and proposals for disability legislation. An expert consultation team was appointed by the Government in April 2002 to oversee the consultation process. The team met with and received the views of stakeholders including the disability legislation consultation group, DLCG, the social partners, the community and voluntary sector and relevant Departments before completing its task in February 2003.

As Deputies will be aware, the DLCG is a group representative of people with disabilities, their families, carers and service providers which was brought together by the National Disability Authority, NDA, to facilitate dialogue at national level, both within the sector and with the consultation team. The DLCG presented the document, Equal Citizens — Proposals for Core Elements of Disability Legislation, to the expert consultation team in February 2003.

Since then, the DLCG have had meetings with a number of members of the Government including the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, and Ministers of State, Deputies O'Dea and Tim O'Malley. The discussions at these meetings covered such matters as assessment of need, standards, service provision, the need to build capacity in key sectors of the public service so as to allow provision of disability accessible services in a cost effective way and workable redress mechanisms. The DLCG was assured of the Government's commitment to bring forward the disability Bill as a matter of priority.

In recent weeks, there have been meetings between the DLCG and officials from my Department, the Department of an Taoiseach and the Department of Social and Family Affairs. At these meetings, the DLCG was given an outline of the proposals for legislation and their views about these proposals were discussed and noted for consideration by the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion. The Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion and the Government are finalising their deliberations on the Bill which, as I mentioned already, it is intended to circulate in the coming weeks.

The disability Bill will give statutory effect to a range of important policies as they relate to people with disabilities, establish systems for assessment of need and service provision and specify infrastructure for policy delivery and redress. The Government is convinced of the importance of effective redress mechanisms if services committed in the Bill are not delivered. Statute-based complaints and appeals structures will be provided.

Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Seán Crowe

Question:

485 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 244 of 19 November 2003 and 394 of 2 March 2004, in replies to which he stated that a request for tender and detailed technical specification documents were being drafted for a closed circuit television system in Tallaght and that the pre-tender process was at an advanced stage, if his attention has been drawn to the similarity in the two replies; if his attention has further been drawn to progress towards this process being completed; and the progress which has been made between the two dates. [8607/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

As the Deputy is aware, Tallaght, with Athlone, Clondalkin and Waterford, is one of the four systems in phase 2 of the current CCTV installation programme throughout the State set to receive a new Garda town centre CCTV system.

The experience to date with the installation of CCTV systems in other areas clearly indicates that to arrive at full commissioning can be a very lengthy process. This is due in the main to the complex nature of these CCTV systems, which includes, inter alia, refurbishment of Garda stations for the monitoring of the cameras, provision of civil works, services of the ESB and local authorities and so on.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that in order to implement and deliver these systems in the most efficient and cost effective manner, careful consideration must be given to the planning of the project as a whole. Consideration is currently being given to a restructuring of the manner in which these systems go to tender with a view to delivering the implementation of these CCTV systems within a shorter timeframe.

Residency Permits.

Paddy McHugh

Question:

486 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application by a person (details supplied) in County Galway for residency will be processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8621/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The person in question arrived in the State in November 2002 and made an asylum application. His wife and two children arrived in the State in September 2002 and made an asylum application. The wife gave birth to a child in the State in October 2002. The asylum applications were withdrawn and applications were made for residency on the basis of parentage of an Irish child.

Following the decision of the Supreme Court in the cases of L and O, the separate procedure which then existed to enable persons to apply to reside in the State on the sole basis of parentage of an Irish born child ended on 19 February 2003. The Government decided that the separate procedure would not apply to cases which were outstanding on that date. There are a large number of such cases outstanding at present, including the case to which the Deputy refers.

As the person in question does not have an alternative legal basis for remaining in this jurisdiction the issue of permission to remain will be considered, but only in the context of a ministerial proposal to deport him. In that context he has already been notified of such a proposal on 10 March 2004 and was given an opportunity to make representations in relation to it. If, in the light of those representations and the range of factors set out in section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, the Minister decides not to make a deportation order he will be given leave to remain on a humanitarian basis.

Because of the large number of such cases on hand I am unable to say at this stage when the file will be further examined.

Youth Services.

Seán Haughey

Question:

487 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has research available to him regarding how young persons view the gardaí; his views on the fact that this is a negative relationship which is to the detriment of local communities; if his attention has been drawn to the reasons for this conflict; the policies being pursued to address this problem; the role young persons can play in improving the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8622/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Síochána strives to deliver a professional service of the highest standards to all members of the community.

The Garda Síochána places emphasis on working with young people and in particular with youths from marginalised communities. This commitment is particularly evident in the policies of the Garda national juvenile office and Garda youth diversion projects. The success of the youth diversion programme is self evident with figures of 87% of juveniles cautioned reaching their 18th birthday not having re-offended on coming to Garda attention for anti-social or criminal activity.

The fact that the diversion programme is now legislated for under the Children Act 2001 is also an indicator of its success. The introduction of restorative justice concepts into diversion has brought more into focus the position of crime victims, by giving them a voice and encouraging young people to recognise the effect of their behaviour. This concept enables the young offender to learn from misbehaviour in a caring but firmly structured environment and assists in diverting young offenders away from criminality.

The Garda youth diversion projects, of which there are 64 throughout the country, work primarily with marginalised youths who would be considered at risk of becoming involved with criminal activities. These projects are funded by my Department and have a primary goal of developing their participants into caring contributing members of society. Many projects are based in the communities from which the young people come and engage with the local community in a positive manner. The majority of referrals to these projects are from juvenile liaison officers and community Garda personnel, but referrals are also taken from teachers and members of the local community.

The Garda schools programme continues to be delivered throughout the State to children in fifth and sixth class of primary school and allows for interaction in a non-confrontational environment. The programme is delivered by locally based gardaí. A new programme for junior cycle secondary schools has been piloted and will be rolled out nationally next September as part of the Department of Education and Science's social political and health education programme.

A large number of gardaí are involved in sporting and youth organisations in their recreation time. This involvement continues to benefit communities and in particular creates an awareness among young people of Garda commitment to their well-being. In the 2004 policing plan the Garda Commissioner has given an undertaking to carry out research in the form of a survey to examine the attitudes and experience of young people towards the Garda. The survey will also examine attitudes of young people toward delinquency.

The Garda research unit at the Garda College has been tasked to carry out this survey. The results of this research when available will assist in the review and formulation of policy where necessary.

Garda Remuneration.

John Cregan

Question:

488 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if garda management will supply the number of Garda Síochána members and their ranks who have been granted the full 18 month lodging allowance, from 1 January 2000 to date as allowed for in transfer regulations applicable when members of an Garda Siochána are promoted and transferred. [8623/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

My Department's financial management system contains certain accounting information on the payment of lodging allowances in connection with the transfer of members of the Garda Síochána. However, there are no records in my Department, either manual or computer, that can be readily accessed in order to indicate the number of members and their ranks who have been granted the full 18 month lodging allowance from 1 January 2000 to date. An extensive trawl through manual records would be necessary but it is not certain that the result would be conclusive.

Liquor Licensing Laws.

John Cregan

Question:

489 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if current legislation governing minors being on licensed premises after 9.00 pm can be amended to permit minors involved in the playing of traditional music to remain on licensed premises while performing after 9 p.m. [8624/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Section 14 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003, which substitutes a new section for section 34 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988, generally prohibits persons under the age of 18 years from being in the bar of licensed premises. A licensee may, however, permit a child, a person under the age of 15 years, to be in the bar if the child is accompanied by a parent or guardian, but not after 9 p.m. Likewise, a licensee may permit a person aged between 15 and 17 unaccompanied by a parent or guardian to be in the bar, but not after 9 p.m.

Moreover, a licensee may allow a child accompanied by a parent or guardian, or a person aged between 15 and 17, to be in the bar after 9 p.m. on the occasion of a private function at which a substantial meal is served to persons attending the function. The restrictions in section 14 of the 2003 Act do not apply to a son or daughter of the licensee, a person who resides in the licensed premises, a person who is passing through the bar solely for the purpose of entering or leaving another part of the premises or a person who is employed in the licensed premises in accordance with section 38 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988.

It is important to note that the restrictions set out in section 14 of the 2003 Act apply to the bar and not to other parts of licensed premises. This means that persons under the age of 18 years may engage in playing traditional music after 9 p.m. in parts of licensed premises other than the bar. 'Bar' is defined in the Act as any open bar or any part of licensed premises exclusively or mainly used for the sale and consumption of intoxicating liquor and includes any counter or barrier across which drink is or can be served to the public.

I should add that the restrictions set out in section 14 of the 2003 Act are in line with recommendations both of the Commission on Liquor Licensing in its final report and the strategic task force on alcohol in its interim report.

I have no proposals to amend these recently enacted provisions of the law.

Dublin-Monaghan Bombings.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

490 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has ordered an investigation into reports that a file on the bombing of Monaghan town on 17 May 1974 was removed from special branch headquarters in Harcourt Square on the order of a senior garda officer; if this file was later found under the seat of a garda patrol car and this occurred two years ago while the inquiry by Judge Barron was ongoing; and if the said file was supplied to Mr. Justice Barron when recovered. [8625/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that a one-page document, which formed part of a contemporary working file used to make a presentation to the Independent Commission of Inquiry into the Dublin and Monaghan Bombings, was found in a Garda patrol car on 11 February 2000. I am further informed that this one-page document was not an original document from a 1974 file.

Upon investigation by the Garda authorities, it was found that the single page accidentally fell out of a loose leaf folder attached to the working file when it was being transported from Garda headquarters to the Garda office at Harcourt Square.

Accordingly, no further investigation into the matter is warranted.

Non-EEA Nationals.

Denis Naughten

Question:

491 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedure involved in allowing a newly married bride from outside the EEA to join her spouse who is on a work permit here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8626/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The following is the position in respect of such a non-EEA national who is legally employed in the State and who wishes to be joined here by his spouse. If the spouse is a visa required national then the worker in question must have been in the State for a period of 12 months and have the expectation of remaining here for at least a further 12 month period before he can be joined here. If the spouse is not a visa required national, there is no waiting period before she may join her husband in the State. However, he must be in a position to support her without recourse to public funds.

Peace Commissioners.

Denis Naughten

Question:

492 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of peace commissioners in the Roscommon town Garda district; the names; when they were appointed; the plans he has to appoint further peace commissioners in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8628/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

There are five peace commissioners entered on the current roll of peace commissioners as residing in the Garda sub-district serving Roscommon town.

The names and dates of appointment of the peace commissioners are as follows:

Hazel Irene Cheatle	16/11/2000
Martin J. Geraghty	30/08/1994
Patrick O’Rourke	03/11/1982
Barry Molloy	31/10/1975
Vincent Joseph McManus	15/10/1996

Peace commissioners are appointed under section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act 1924. An application for appointment may be made by a person on his or her own behalf or a nomination may be made by a third party. The Garda authorities may also request an appointment in the public interest when they believe there is an essential need for a further appointment. There is no application or nomination for the appointment of additional peace commissioners in the Roscommon Garda sub-district under consideration at present.

Criminal Convictions.

Richard Bruton

Question:

493 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there are circumstances in which the record of a minor conviction can be erased from a person’s record. [8629/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

As the Deputy will be aware, a criminal conviction whether minor or otherwise, reflects a verdict of the courts. There is currently no provision for expunging a criminal conviction from the Garda criminal records.

However, the second programme of the Law Reform Commission for the period 2000 to 2007 proposes, as part of an examination of the law on privacy, to consider longevity of criminal records and expunging of certain offences from the records. I will consider any recommendations which the Law Reform Commission may make on the matter.

The Deputy may also be interested to know that under section 258 of the Children Act 2001, where a person has committed an offence, other than an offence triable in the Central Criminal Court, while under the age of 18 years and a period of three years has elapsed since the finding of guilt and that person has not been dealt with for an offence in that three year period, he or she will be treated for all purposes in law as a person who has not committed, been charged with, been prosecuted for, found guilty of or dealt with for the offence or offences which were the subject of the finding of guilt. That provision came into operation on 1 May 2002.

Departmental Expenditure.

David Stanton

Question:

494 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the amount of money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access services of his Department. [8647/04]

Question:

512 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of considerable expansion in the population and ongoing problems relating to traffic and law and order, he will consider the request for the establishment of a Garda station in the village of Adamstown, County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9038/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 497 and 512 together. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that Adamstown is part of the Carrickbyrne sub-district. The current personnel strength of Carrickbyrne Garda station is two, all ranks.

Local Garda management is satisfied that the arrangements currently in place at Carrickbyrne are adequate to meet current policing needs of the area. There are currently no plans to open a Garda station in Adamstown.

The situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next becomes available the needs of Carrickbyrne will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.

Garda Deployment.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

498 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí assigned to the Limerick division at the end of February 2004; the number at the end of 2003; the number at the end of 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8828/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of Limerick division as at 31 December 2002, 31 December 2003 and 1 March 2004 is as set in the following table:

Year	Strength
2002	460
2003	472
01/03/04	466

The situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Limerick will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.

Citizenship Applications.

Willie Penrose

Question:

499 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application for a certificate of naturalisation by a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath will be expedited, as it has been a long time in the system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8829/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Applications for certificates of naturalisation were received from the person referred to and her husband in December of 1994. Certain information required in order to process the applications was sought on numerous occasions but was not supplied. My officials explained to the applicants that it would not be possible to finalise the applications without this information. The files were closed in 1997.

If the information that was sought at that time is now available, the applicants can submit new applications along with the necessary support documentation and these will then be considered.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

500 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the average delay in dealing with applications for naturalisation; the reasons for such delays; and the steps that are being taken to deal with such applications efficiently and effectively. [8830/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The following table sets out the number of applications for naturalisation which were received and the number of certificates issued in the period 2000 to date:

Year	Applications Received	Percentage Increase on previous year for new applications.	Certificates Issued
		%
2000	1,004	35	125
2001	1,431	42	1,012
2002	3,574	250	1,332
2003	3,580	0	1,664
2004 to end February	660	N/A	317

Despite the increase in the number of applications over the last four years the average processing time has been reduced from two and a half years to between 15 and 18 months. It should be borne in mind that the granting of Irish citizenship is an honour and that applications must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is given only to persons who are suitably qualified. There is, therefore, a limit to the reduction in the processing time that is possible without affecting the integrity of the citizenship process.

Questions Nos. 501 and 502 answered with Question No. 456.

Child Support.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

503 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the contacts he has had with the Institute of Technology in Tallaght regarding the need for the development of crèche facilities at this institution; if his attention has been drawn to the anxiety of the college’s Student Union to see progress in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8833/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The day to day administration of the equal opportunities childcare programme 2000-2006 is undertaken by Area Development Management Limited, which has been engaged by my Department to carry-out thorough assessments of all applications for grant assistance under the programme on my behalf. All large-scale capital projects are referred by ADM Limited, to an independent external building specialist to assess the suitability of the proposal and its value for money. I am aware that there has been significant ongoing dialogue between the group, ADM Limited, and the external building specialist with regard to this application. I understand that the initial proposal from the group required revision to take account of the issues raised by the external building specialist. I also understand that ADM Limited is currently awaiting a final report from the building specialist. On completion of the assessment process this application will be considered by the programme appraisal committee, chaired by my Department, which will make a funding recommendation to me before I make a final decision on the matter. I would advise the Deputy that there has been considerable demand from community based groups for capital grant assistance under the programme and every county has benefited from significant grant commitments to provide new and enhanced community based child care facilities.

My Department is currently carrying out an extensive review of the programme's capital commitments to date to ensure that those grant commitments previously entered into will in fact be realised by the groups on the ground. At the same time, it is also reviewing different budget lines under the capital programme to ensure that the most effective use is made of all remaining capital funding in accordance with the objectives of the programme. Every effort is being made to expedite the programme review of the capital elements of the equal opportunities childcare programme to ensure that all capital projects which have already received grant allocations will proceed. The Deputy will appreciate that more than 1,100 capital grants have been allocated already totalling approximately €114 million. Many of these projects are either awaiting planning permission or the completion of tender processes before reasonable assurance can be taken that they will proceed. In the event that a project does not proceed, the funding can be decommitted and made available to another project.

At the same time, an extensive review of child care provision on the ground is taking place to identify obvious service gaps, the filling of which will be a priority using the remaining capital funding which currently amounts to some €30 million, not including decommitted funding, and possible funding transfers from other elements of the programme following the current review. The careful analysis of this information is essential if the best use is to be made of the significant capital funding being provided by the Government to support the child care needs of parents who may be in employment, education or training. I would be hopeful that the review work will be completed before Easter, following which the critical appraisal of all applications against the programme criteria will lead to the allocation of further capital funding.

I would remind the Deputy that the equal opportunities childcare programme 2000-2006 is in fact a seven year development programme. The progress of the programme was commented upon very favourably by the mid-term evaluators of both the regional operational programmes and the National Development Plan 2000-2006. Expenditure under the programme must take place in a planned manner and covers the period to end 2007. Accordingly, grant approvals must take place in a carefully planned manner to ensure that the programme can meet its financial commitments at all times.

Joe Costello

Question:

504 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason there is a delay in processing child care grant applications; if he will expedite an application (details provided); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8873/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

All applications for grant assistance under the equal opportunities childcare programme 2000-2006 undergo a thorough assessment and appraisal process by Area Development Management Limited. All large scale capital projects are referred by ADM Limited to an independent external building specialist to assess the suitability of the proposal and its value for money.

I understand from information supplied by the childcare directorate that there has been significant ongoing contact between Area Development Management Limited, the external building specialist and the group regarding their application for capital funding under the programme. On completion of the assessment process, applications are considered by the programme appraisal committee, chaired by my Department, for a recommendation before I make a final decision.

I would advise the Deputy that there has been considerable demand from community based groups for capital grant assistance under the programme and every county has benefited from significant grant commitments to provide new and enhanced community based child care facilities. My Department is currently carrying out an extensive review of the programme's capital commitments to date to ensure that those grant commitments previously entered into will in fact be realised by the groups on the ground. At the same time, it is also reviewing different budget lines under the capital programme to ensure that the most effective use is made of all remaining capital funding in accordance with the objectives of the programme.

Every effort is being made to expedite the programme review of the capital elements of the equal opportunities childcare programme to ensure that all capital projects which have already received grant allocations will proceed. The Deputy will appreciate that more than 1,100 capital grants have been allocated already totalling over €114 million. In the event that a project does not proceed, the funding can be decommitted and made available to another project.

At the same time, an extensive review of childcare provision on the ground is taking place to identify obvious service gaps, the filling of which will be a priority using the remaining capital funding which currently amounts to some €30 million, not including decommitted funding, and possible funding transfers from other elements of the programme following the current review. The careful analysis of this information is essential if the best use is to be made of the significant capital funding being provided by the Government to support the child care needs of parents who may be in employment, education or training. I would be hopeful that the review work will be completed before Easter, following which the critical appraisal of all applications against the programme criteria will lead to the allocation of further capital funding.

I would remind the Deputy that the equal opportunities childcare programme 2000-2006 is in fact a seven year development programme. The progress of the programme was commented upon very favourably by the mid-term evaluators of the regional operational programmes and the National Development Plan 2000-2006. Expenditure under the programme must take place in a planned manner and covers the period to end 2007. Accordingly, grant approvals must take place in a carefully planned manner to ensure that the programme can meet its financial commitments at all times.

All applications for grant assistance under the equal opportunities childcare programme 2000-2006 undergo a thorough assessment and appraisal process by Area Development Management Limited. On completion of the assessment process, applications are considered by the programme appraisal committee, chaired by my Department, for a recommendation before I make a final decision.

As the group's application for staffing grant assistance relates directly to the capital grant application, it will be considered following the completion of the appraisal process of the capital grant application.

Question No. 505 answered with QuestionNo. 471.

Citizenship Applications.

John Perry

Question:

506 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application for naturalisation has been received by his Department for a person (details supplied); if he will ensure that it is processed immediately; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8878/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of my Department on 27 February 2004.

The average processing time for applications for naturalisation is 15 to 18 months at present. A letter was sent to the applicant on 2 March 2004 informing her that her application had been received and that it was likely that her application would be examined during the course of 2005.

I will inform the Deputy and the person concerned as soon as I have reached a decision on the application.

Dublin-Monaghan Bombings.

Finian McGrath

Question:

507 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, further to Question No. 382 of 2 March 2004 regarding Garda special branch monitoring of the families and victims of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings, he how accepts that the fact is widely known and in the public domain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8912/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I do not accept the proposition set out in the Deputy's question, and the position remains as set out in my reply to Question No. 382 of 2 March 2004.

Registration of Title.

Michael Ring

Question:

508 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding a folio (details supplied) in County Mayo; and when the matter will be dealt with. [8998/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for a transfer order which was lodged on 8 October 2003. Dealing No. D2003SM008488N refers.

I am further informed that a query was issued to the lodging solicitor on 26 February 2004 and that the application cannot proceed until that query has been satisfactorily resolved.

However, I can assure the Deputy that on receipt of a satisfactory reply, the matter will receive further attention in the Land Registry.

John Perry

Question:

509 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will intervene with the Land Registry on behalf of a person (details supplied) and have the maps and folio numbers issued; if the application will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9027/04]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that these are two applications for vesting of land by the Land Commission which were lodged on 31 October 2000 and on 17 November 2000. Schedule Nos. 93552 and 93556 refer.

Land Commission schedule applications are deemed to be registered as of the date of vesting, which is prior to the date of lodgement of the documents in the Land Registry. Accordingly, registration in the Land Registry of Land Commission cases is afforded a lower priority than the registration of other dealings.

I am further informed that queries regarding both applications were raised with the Land Commission on 5 February 2004, that a reminder was issued on 24 February 2004, and that neither application can proceed until those queries have been satisfactorily resolved.

However, I can assure the Deputy that on receipt of a satisfactory reply the matter will receive further attention in the Land Registry.

Michael Ring

Question:

510 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding a dealing (details supplied); and if this file can be expedited in view of the fact that the delay is causing hardship to the family. [9028/04]

Road Traffic Accidents involving road dumpers 2001 to 2004*
Division	Total
Cavan/Monaghan	1
Cork City	5
Cork West	3
Cork North	4
Galway West	2
Kerry	1
Limerick	1
Longford/Westmeath	2
Louth/Meath	1
Mayo	1
Roscommon/Galway East	1
Sligo/Leitrim	3
Tipperary	2
Waterford/Kilkenny	8
Wexford/Wicklow	2
DMR North Central	1
DMR North	1
DMR South	2
DMR West	2
DMR East	2
Total	45

*Up to 22 March 2004.

Animal Breeding Regulations.

Richard Bruton

Question:

520 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has proposals to introduce a puppy breeders Act similar to that in Britain so that there might be proper regulation of the standards and conditions within which animals are kept; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8558/04]

Pat Carey

Question:

526 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will consider introducing legislation similar to the Breeding of Dogs Acts 1973 and 1991 and the Breeding and Sale of Dogs (Welfare) Act 1999 introduced in the Westminster Parliament, for example, a puppy breeders Bill to regulate puppy farming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8323/04]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

550 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reasons that section 19 of the Control of Dogs Act 1986 has not been fully implemented; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that section 19 may be one way of counteracting the many animal welfare issues associated with dog farming; if he has plans to bring section 19 into full force; the other measures he intends to take to regulate dog farming and empower inspectors in the enforcement of those regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8568/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 520, 526 and 550 together.

The main focus of action by local authorities under the Control of Dogs Acts 1986 and 1992 has been on the control of stray dogs and dangerous dogs, such as guard dogs, which could present nuisance or danger to the general public or to other animals.

In light of recent concerns, my Department is currently engaged in discussions with relevant interests regarding the proper management of kennels regarding the provisions of the Control of Dogs Acts. Those discussions are continuing and are intended to inform my Department whether or to what extent revised legislation or regulatory administrative measures is desirable in the area.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Enda Kenny

Question:

521 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an application in respect of Crossboyne sewerage scheme, Crossboyne, County Mayo, has been received by his Department; when that application was received; if the application has been assessed; if so, if the scheme will be included by his Department in its investment programme for 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9316/04]

Michael Ring

Question:

579 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when funding will be sanctioned for the Crossboyne sewerage scheme extension; and when the funding will be made available. [9021/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 521 and 579 together.

No specific proposals have been received in my Department in respect of this scheme. The scheme was 32nd on the list of sewerage schemes submitted by Mayo County Council in response to my Department's request to local authorities in 1998 to undertake a five-yearly assessment of the needs for capital water services works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessment. Given the rating afforded to the scheme by the council at that time, it has not been possible to include it in the water services investment programme.

The scheme is sixth in the most recent priority list of water and sewerage schemes furnished by Mayo County Council earlier this year in response to my Department's request to all local authorities in 2003 to produce updated assessments of needs. That latest assessment will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the water services investment programme in due course.

Election Management System.

Richard Bruton

Question:

522 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is planned to release the details of electronic voting records on the Internet as was done in the case of the pilot constituencies in the 2002 general election on the next occasion on which electronic voting is used; and the form in which those results will be published and the persons who will have access to the electronic files. [8262/04]

Richard Bruton

Question:

523 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that it is possible through the selection of permutations and combinations of lower-order preferences for voters to create a form of electronic signature in respect of their votes; if his Department has considered the possibility that the existence of such electronic signatures can create the opportunity for a group of voters to enter into a contract to vote in a certain way, which would be verifiable afterwards by searching the electronic returns for the distinguishing electronic signature; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8263/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 522 and 523 together.

I intend that legislative proposals on electronic voting to be brought forward urgently will address, inter alia, the type and format of any voting data to be published following elections, with regard to the constitutional requirement to preserve the secrecy of the ballot.

State Property.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

524 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if international agreements or international obligations would be breached if the Government were to allow hunting on State lands. [8264/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 4 of 4 March 2004.

Public Service Charges.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

525 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has plans to have local authorities grant waivers for local charges to primary and second level schools; if his attention has been drawn to the importance of that issue to many schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8296/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

The power to waive a local charge is, under law, a matter for individual local authorities, and my Department is not involved in the administration of waiver schemes.

Question No. 526 answered with QuestionNo. 520.

Ministerial Appointments.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

527 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of staff appointed by him from outside the Civil Service since the general election of 2002; the job descriptions for those staff; the salaries and expenses paid to those staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8337/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I have appointed three temporary staff from outside the Civil Service since the general election in 2002 in support of my office. Their names, job descriptions and salary scales are set out in the following table.

Name	Job Description	Salary Scale
Pat Daly	Special Adviser	Principal Officer Standard Scale €69,194 — €72,128 — €75,043 — €77,981 — €80,457 €83,024 [after three years’ satisfactory service at the max.]€85,589 [after six years’ satisfactory service at the max.]
Sean Dower	Personal Assistant	Higher Executive Officer Standard Scale €37,520 — €38,653 — €39,781 — €40,918 — €42,052 — €43,191 — €44,328€45,965 [after three years’ satisfactory service at the max.] €47,606 [after six years’ satisfactory service at the max.]
Inez O’Neill	Personal Secretary	Secretarial Assistant €359.17 — €379.38 — €403.30 — €436.25 — €469.20 — €503.94 — €538.16 — €570.17 — €602.80 — €633.80 — €656.81 — €667.72€681.58 [after three years’ satisfactory service at the max.] €692.98 [after six years’ satisfactory service at the max.]

The total expenses paid to these staff from June 2002 to date is €35,725.67. Other temporary appointments have been made to the offices of the Ministers of State at my Department and to my Department's press office.

Environmental Policy.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

528 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has considered the report of the New Economics Foundation, Ghost Town Britain; if this has implications for Ireland; if his attention has been drawn to concern regarding the number of post offices, banks and small retail outlets which have closed in Dublin and other parts of the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8343/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 420 of 9 March 2004.

Planning Issues.

Michael Ring

Question:

529 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the new guidelines on the Planning and Development Act 2000 will be issued to the county councils. [8357/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I have recently published and circulated to all local authorities draft guidelines for planning authorities on sustainable rural housing and draft guidelines on strategic environmental assessment on certain plans and programmes. The guidelines will be issued in due course as ministerial guidelines under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, having regard to the views expressed during the public consultation process.

Work is under way in my Department on the preparation of several guidelines which I propose to issue either in draft or final format during 2004. I propose to issue draft development plan and wind energy guidelines and finalised control of quarries guidelines in the summer of this year, and draft development management guidelines and finalised architectural heritage guidelines in the autumn. A review of the floorspace cap on retail warehouses, contained in the retail planning guidelines, is being completed and I expect to be able to make an announcement in that regard shortly.

Election Management System.

Enda Kenny

Question:

532 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the comments of returning officers regarding difficulties in recruiting sufficient staff to conduct the local and European elections in June 2004; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that the closure of polling stations makes it less attractive for members of the public to vote and, as a consequence, lessens the extent of democratic decision; if he will make sufficient resources available to all returning officers so that no polling station has to be closed without exceptional reason; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8365/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Arrangements for the taking of polls at the European and local elections, including the recruitment of staff, are the responsibility for the appropriate European and local returning officer. Support and guidance is provided for those officers by my Department regarding the statutory requirements involved and the countrywide introduction of electronic voting and counting, and by the Department of Finance regarding the financing, from the Central Fund, of the expenses of elections.

The elected members of local authorities are responsible for making a polling scheme dividing a county or city council into polling districts. The number of polling stations to be used in any polling district is then a matter for each returning officer. Adequate funding will be provided to returning officers for the employment of staff and other electoral expenses arising at the June 2004 elections, including the costs of polling stations.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Dan Neville

Question:

533 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a sewerage scheme at Glin, County Limerick, will be upgraded. [8392/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Fluoride dosing levels and review of such levels, including the type, form, quality and purity of fluoride to be added to public water supplies, are matters for the Minister for Health and Children under the Health (Fluoridation of Water Supplies) Act 1960.

Motor Taxation.

Paul McGrath

Question:

537 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the motor tax receipts allocated by Westmeath County Council in each of the past five years, the way in which those figures compare with the allocation to Westmeath County Council for non-national roads in each of those years, and the allocation to Westmeath County Council from the motor tax central fund in each of those years. [8472/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

The information requested is set out in the table below.

Year	Motor Tax Receipts*	Non-National Roads Grant Payments	Local Government Fund General Purpose Grants
	€	€	€
1999	8,376,952	4,770,914	8,261,153
2000	8,427,224	5,442,224	8,803,388
2001	9,381,309	6,013,207	11,777,470
2002	10,412,085	6,856,446	12,428,512
2003	12,117,216	7,292,144	14,734,329

*Net of collection costs.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Paul McGrath

Question:

538 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if plans for a proposed water scheme for Glasson and Tubberclare, County Westmeath, have been received in his Department; the date of receipt of those documents; the status of the application; his plans to fund the scheme; and the envisaged timeframe. [8473/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Phase three of the south Westmeath regional water supply scheme, which will serve Glasson and Tubberclare, is included in my Department's water services investment programme 2003 to 2005 as a scheme to commence construction in 2005. Further consideration will be given to Westmeath County Council's preliminary report for phases one to three of the scheme on receipt of the additional information requested by my Department from the council in June 2003.

Paul McGrath

Question:

539 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the situation concerning funding for the proposed sewerage system for Glasson and Ballykieran, County Westmeath. [8474/04]

Paul McGrath

Question:

540 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an application for funding for a proposed sewerage system for Ballykieran and Glasson, County Westmeath has been received in his Department; the date of the receipt of that application; if the application has received technical approval; if so the date of that approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8475/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 539 and 540 together.

The Glasson-Ballykeeran-Coosan sewerage scheme has been approved for funding under the rural towns and villages initiative of my Department's water services investment programme 2003 to 2005. Additional information requested from Westmeath County Council regarding the preliminary report for scheme was received in my Department in February 2004. The preliminary report is now being examined in the Department and will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

Disabled Drivers.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

541 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide additional funding to increase the number of parking spaces for disabled persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8506/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Where a person is convicted in court of the offence of illegally parking in a disabled person's parking bay, he or she is liable to a fine not exceeding €800 for a first offence, a fine not exceeding €1,500 for a second or subsequent offence, and if a third or subsequent such offence is committed within 12 months, the person is liable to a fine not exceeding €1,500 or, at the discretion of the court, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months, or both. The determination of the actual fine to be imposed in each case is a matter for the courts.

The offence in question comes within the scope of the on-the-spot fines system. The amount of the on-the-spot fine applicable to this offence is €19, which is the level that applies to the majority of parking offences. Where an on-the-spot fine notice is issued, it is open to the person to whom the notice is addressed to pay the relevant amount so as to avoid the matter proceeding to court.

The Road Traffic Act 2002 provides for the replacement of the current on-the-spot fines system by a fixed charge system. The new system, which already applies to the offences of exceeding a speed limit and breaching the requirements for the use of seat belts, brings greater certainty to the application of administrative charges regarding offences. It features, in particular, a provision through which the original amount of the fixed charge will automatically increase by 50% where payment is not made within 28 days of the date of the original notice.

The roll-out of the system to the majority of traffic and parking offences, including the offence of parking in a disabled person's parking bay, is being progressed in conjunction with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda authorities. I envisage that the process will feature the updating of the charges associated with parking offences generally, including that offence.

Local Authority Funding.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

542 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an application from a local authority (details supplied) has been made to his Department for loan approval in 2003 and 2004. [8525/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

An application was made to my Department in February, 2004 by Killarney Town Council for sanction to raise a loan of €4.5 million for the purchase of housing land. To enable the matter to be addressed, the council has been requested to forward to my Department the associated borrowing resolution of the council.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

John Perry

Question:

543 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 1000 of 27 January 2004, if he will give a firm commitment that Enniscrone sewerage scheme in County Sligo will commence immediately as we head into the tourist season in view of the serious problems encountered last year; the reason it has not yet been sanctioned as Sligo County Council has submitted all reports and requested documentation to his Department and, despite constant promises, work has not commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8531/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 1000 of 27 January 2004. Further progress on the scheme awaits the submission by Sligo County Council of the information requested by my Department in November 2003.

John Perry

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

551 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the proposals he has to reduce the voting age as raised with Minister Síle de Valera on a recent visit to St. Mark’s community school, Tallaght, Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8572/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

There are no proposals at present to reduce the voting age.

Election Management System.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

552 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the proposals he has to ensure the control of impersonation in the June 2004 elections; the contacts he has had with local authorities in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8573/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Existing controls regarding personation are set out in electoral law. The returning officer or the presiding officer may, of his own volition, or if so requested by a personation agent present in the polling station, request any person applying for a ballot paper to produce a specified identification document. If a person fails to produce such a document, or if the returning officer or the presiding officer is not satisfied that the person is the person to whom the document relates, he or she shall not be permitted to vote. Returning officers or presiding officers may also — or, if so requested by a personation agent, shall — put certain questions or administer an oath or affirmation to persons applying for a ballot paper. Electoral law also sets out a range of offences and penalties regarding personation.

The law and the administrative arrangements in place regarding this matter will continue to be monitored with a view to possible improvements, while remaining conscious of the need to maintain a proper balance between accessibility to the system and its security and integrity. As part of the preparations for the forthcoming polls, my Department will shortly provide guidance documentation to European local returning officers for issue to presiding officers which will contain detailed advice on personation.

Parks and Wildlife Service.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

553 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a vacancy (details supplied) in County Donegal will be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8578/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

The Civil Service and Local Appointments Commissioners were requested some months ago by my Department to hold a public competition to fill this and other conservation ranger vacancies in the National Parks and Wildlife Service. While the commissioners exercise this function independently, they have been asked to expedite the matter.

Election Management System.

David Stanton

Question:

554 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the bodies or individuals consulted by his Department regarding the access by persons with a disability to the electronic voting machines to be used in the forthcoming elections; if those machines will be fully accessible to persons with disabilities, the measures he has taken to ensure such accessibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8612/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

My Department has consulted with the National Disability Authority and the National Council for the Blind, which have provided constructive input into improvements made to the voting machine since the pilot polls. The new features, which include an increase in the size and legibility of candidate details, the use of larger preference numbers and brighter displays for better visibility and the use of a redesigned "cast vote" button, have improved its user-friendliness for the visually impaired and for other users.

At my Department's request, the equipment suppliers have undertaken initial work on developing a facility for the future whereby visually impaired voters, who would otherwise require assistance to vote, will be able to use the new voting system independently. The National Disability Authority and the National Council for the Blind will be consulted regarding the development of that further facility.

The voting machine is at present accessible to wheelchair users and returning officers will also be acquiring a specially designed voting table, with a tilt facility, which will provide for additional ease of use.

I refer also to the reply to Question No. 425 of 9 March 2004.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

555 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is concern at either Department or local authority level regarding the need for trained staff to oversee electronic voting in all polling stations; if adequate trained staff have been or are being recruited for that purpose; if polling stations traditionally employed at election time will be in use on 11 June 2004 for e-voting, with no closure of polling stations or other disruption of the election process on polling day; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8615/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

The employment and training of polling station staff are matters for the European and local returning officers. To support that process regarding the forthcoming June elections at which electronic voting and counting will be introduced nationwide, my Department arranged with the Institute of Public Administration to provide a training course for staff nominated by those returning officers. That training is under way and covers procedures on polling day, including voting machine set-up, voting and close-of-poll arrangements. The staff instructed through that process will then provide training for polling station staff locally.

If additional assistance is required locally for the training of polling station staff, my Department has arranged that that will be provided by the IPA. The provision of polling stations within the polling districts established by local authorities is a matter for the European and local returning officers.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

556 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to fund directly services for persons with disabilities and the amount of money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to access more easily the services of his Department. [8648/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Spending by my Department which benefits people with disabilities cannot readily be disaggregated, as many of the relevant measures benefit other groups such as elderly persons or persons who are disadvantaged in different ways. Details of the different measures are set out below; provisional outturn figures are provided for 2003, and estimates for the current year.

Voluntary housing capital assistance scheme, B.1.4 — €95.864 million in 2003 and €99.123 million in 2004. This measure includes provision for grants to local authorities under section 15 of the Housing Act 1988 to enable them to advance loans to approved voluntary organisations providing housing for the elderly, homeless, disabled and other disadvantaged persons under the voluntary housing capital assistance scheme.

Disabled persons-essential repairs grants, B.2.2 — €43.841 million in 2003 and €49.400 million in 2004. These schemes include provision for partial recoupment to local authorities regarding grants for adapting a dwelling house to cater for the needs of a disabled person; and prolonging the life of houses, mainly of elderly persons, which are in need of repair.

Communal facilities in voluntary housing schemes, B.4 — €2.063 million in 2003 and 2.070 million in 2004. Funding is provided towards the capital costs of providing communal facilities in both new and existing voluntary housing schemes, some of which benefit elderly and disabled persons.

Public library service, F.2.2 — €0.051 million in 2003 and €0.389 million in 2004. Funding totalling €440,000 is available to library authorities for the provision of PC-based optical scanning facilities for use by visually impaired persons. A grant of up to €4,400 is payable for the provision of the facilities in up to 100 library branches. Those facilities may also be used to assist persons with learning disabilities.

Harbours and Piers.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

557 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the work to decontaminate a site (details supplied) in Cork harbour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8720/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

My Department has been assigned the operational responsibilities associated with the former Irish ISPAT site, including the advancement of the site investigation and remediation processes.

Cork County Council has agreed to take a front-line role on my Department's behalf in advancing the site investigation exercise, which is designed to determine more precisely the nature and extent of contamination of the site and an appropriate remediation programme. The council is about to commence the process of engaging professional expertise which it requires to manage those processes. Following that, tenders for the site investigation exercise will be sought with the intention of commencing the process in autumn 2004.

In parallel, Cork County Council has taken steps to secure the site better and ensure that necessary maintenance continues to be carried out. Arrangements have also been made for the identification of potentially hazardous materials which can readily be removed from the site; removal of some materials has already taken place, and the removal of further materials is currently under consideration.

Question No. 558 answered with QuestionNo. 530.

National Spatial Strategy.

Denis Naughten

Question:

559 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans he has to establish an implementation group to deliver the national spatial strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8731/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

A wide range of measures have been put in place at national, regional and local level to implement the national spatial strategy, or NSS, which is a 20-year planning framework designed to enable every part of the country to achieve its potential. At national level, my Department is leading and overseeing the process of embedding the NSS into the policies, programmes and activities of Departments and agencies with a view to ensuring that all relevant activities support the NSS and that the strategy directs the spatial aspects of public sector programmes, including the determination of investment priorities. An interdepartmental steering group, similar to that which oversaw the preparation of the strategy, has been established and is now working to oversee its implementation.

At regional level, regional authorities, working in conjunction with their constituent local authorities, are making good progress on developing regional planning guidelines to roll out the NSS in more detail at regional level. Draft guidelines have been published in all the regions, and it is anticipated that regional planning guidelines will have been adopted by all regional authorities by the end of May 2004.

Regarding NSS implementation at local level, planning authorities are putting in place development frameworks and plans at the gateway and hub level, that will support the achievement of a critical mass of development at strategic locations. Those are already established in a number of locations, e.g. Cork area strategic plan and Galway transportation and planning strategy, and are well advanced in others.

Animal Welfare Bodies.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

560 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will give assistance to the Cats Protection Association of Ireland so that it can discharge its responsibilities (details supplied). [8760/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

My Department is not able to make a direct financial contribution to the association. However, where a local authority considers it appropriate, it may assist a body which is endeavouring to reduce, in a humane manner, the problems caused by feral cats. Several local authorities in the Dublin area have provided assistance to the Cats Protection Association of Ireland in recent years.

Planning Issues.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

561 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is possible to have section 23 commercial changed to section 23 residential (details supplied); the procedure required to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8761/04]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

The designation of sites and related tax incentives for the purposes of the town renewal scheme was determined having regard to town renewal plans prepared by local authorities in accordance with the Town Renewal Act 2000 and relevant guidelines issued by my Department. Those plans contained, or were accompanied by, recommendations for such designations by the relevant county council. An independent expert advisory panel assessed each such plan, and in turn made recommendations to the Minister in this regard. The panel's recommendations were accepted in full and are the basis on which the town renewal scheme is now being implemented in all areas, including Gorey, County Wexford.

Election Management System.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

562 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 408 of 9 March 2004, if he can confirm that town council or town commission areas are considered local electoral areas under section 6 of the Electoral (Amendment) Act 2001. [8762/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

In all cases at present, with the exception of Bray and Dundalk, the total area of a town council — which term covers both former urban district councils and town commissioners — comprises a single local electoral area. Under section 23 of the Local Government Act 2001, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government may by order divide a town council area into a number of electoral areas, following, inter alia, a report from the local government commission. That provision will become operable only when the commission is established, as intended, following the June 2004 local elections.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

563 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his proposals to grant voting rights in future Seanad elections to graduates of the Institute of Technology in Tallaght; if his attention has been drawn to the particular interest in that issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8763/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

This matter will be kept under review, particularly in the light of any recommendations made by the Seanad Éireann Sub-Committee on Seanad Reform or proposals arising from such recommendations.

Question No. 564 answered with QuestionNo. 530.

Waste Disposal.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

565 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the legislation or regulations concerning the controlled and uncontrolled burning of domestic or builders waste; and the measures he intends to introduce to control the same. [8860/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

The Waste Management Acts 1996 to 2003 place a general duty of care on holders of waste to ensure that the waste they hold is disposed of in a manner which does not cause environmental pollution. In addition, under the Air Pollution Act 1987, the occupier of a premises is prohibiting from causing or permitting an emission in such a quantity or manner as to be a nuisance. The enforcement of waste and air pollution legislation is primarily a matter for the relevant local authority, and my Department has no direct function in the matter. However, as part of the race against waste campaign, I am considering ways in which better awareness about the issues surrounding the uncontrolled burning of waste can be created.

Mayo Landslide.

Michael Ring

Question:

566 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the assistance which is being given in regard to persons (details supplied) in County Mayo, who lost their home in the landslides of September 2003 in north Mayo, to assist them rebuild. [8861/04]

Michael Ring

Question:

567 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the assistance which is being given regarding persons (details supplied) in County Mayo, who lost their home in the landslides of September 2003 in north Mayo, to assist them rebuild. [8862/04]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 566 and 567 together.

My Department, under the Housing Act 1988, has been recouping to Mayo County Council 90% of the cost of providing emergency accommodation to households affected by the landslides in north Mayo in September 2003. In addition, some households may be eligible for assistance under the social housing measures operated by Mayo County Council. It is, however, a matter for the council to determine possible eligibility under those measures in individual cases.

Details of the humanitarian aid scheme available in certain circumstances from the Office of Public Works may appropriately by sought from the Minister for Finance.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Jack Wall

Question:

568 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans his Department has to remove the conditions on rental subsidy housing that prevent the tenants purchasing such houses after a period of residency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8898/04]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

There are no plans to make provision in my Department's capital loan and subsidy scheme — formerly known as the rental subsidy scheme — for voluntary housing projects for the purchase of individual houses by tenants. A tenant purchase scheme is not desirable at this stage of the development of the voluntary housing sector in this country, as the sale of individual housing units would undermine the capacity and resources of voluntary housing bodies to manage and maintain their estates and continue to provide further housing projects to meet pressing needs.

My Department has received an application from Kildare County Council for funding under the serviced land initiative regarding the provision of sewerage facilities to service 135 residential sites at Ballitore. The application is under consideration in my Department and will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

A proposed sewerage scheme for Ballitore, Moone and Timolin was also included in the list of schemes submitted by Kildare County Council earlier this year in response to my Department's request to local authorities in 2003 to undertake fresh assessments of the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. That assessment will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the water services investment programme.

Jack Wall

Question:

572 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position of the new sewerage scheme for Castledermot, County Kildare; the time scale of the proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8903/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Jack Wall

Question:

576 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Question No. 185 of 6 November 2003, the position of an application by a person (details supplied) in County Kildare for the first-time buyer’s grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8993/04]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Question Nos. 575 and 576 together.

A review is being finalised and the applicants will be notified of the outcome shortly.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

577 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government about contract documents for a group water scheme (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8994/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Stage one of the Desertegney water scheme was approved for construction under my Department's water services investment programme for the years 2003 to 2005. My Department is examining the Donegal County Council's design review report and contract documents for the third contract of the scheme and will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

Planning Appeals.

David Stanton

Question:

578 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has considered making funding available to support both sides of planning appeals to enable them to make a reasoned argument for the common good; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9020/04]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

Under sections 145 and 219 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, An Bord Pleanála, at its absolute discretion, may direct that a payment be made towards the costs of a party involved in a planning appeal or who appeared at an oral hearing into a proposed local authority compulsory purchase order. There are no proposals to extend the provision or to make funding available to persons or bodies undertaking planning appeals.

Question:

584 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress that his Department may have made regarding negotiations for implementation of EU Directive 2000/53/EC (details supplied). [9129/04]

Since the beginning of the year my Department has organised four functions related to Ireland's Presidency of the EU. Three functions took place in Dublin and one in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Details are as follows:

1. In February 130 delegates from the European Trade Union Confederation, the Social Platform of European Social Non-governmental Organisations and the European Environmental Bureau attended a conference in Dublin on investing in sustainable development. They were invited to a reception hosted by my Minister of State, Deputy Noel Ahern. Invitations were issued by e-mail.

2 In February 100 national experts on climate change attended a conference in Dublin on European emissions trading. I hosted a reception for them and their invitations were issued by e-mail.

3 I hosted a reception during the 7th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity in Kuala Lumpur in February. Some 300 invitations were issued to EU delegates and Irish members of the business community in Kuala Lumpur. Some invitations were issued by post but the vast majority were distributed to EU delegates at the conference.

4 Earlier this month the Minister of State, Deputy Gallagher, hosted a reception and dinner for delegates attending an extraordinary meeting of the Bureau of the Committee of the Regions and its consultative commission in Dublin. As many as 240 invitations were issued, including an invitation to the Lord Mayor of Dublin. Invitations were either posted or delivered by hand.

Garda motorcycle escorts were not required for any of these functions. The final invoices for all four functions have not been received but the total cost for my Department is estimated in the region of €48,000. I do not know if the EU incurred any costs for these functions.

Inland Waterways.

Jack Wall

Question:

589 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he is satisfied with the development of inland waterways and the workings of Waterways Ireland since the amalgamation of the bodies under the Good Friday Agreement; the number of meetings the Minister has had with Waterways Ireland; if he is concerned that inland marinas have not been developed and the loss of a major tourist initiative through the development of boating holidays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8894/04]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

Waterways Ireland is one of the six North-South implementation bodies established under the British-Irish Agreement Act 1999. I have met the company once since my Department was established in June 2002 during a meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council. It has not been possible to hold such meetings since the suspension of the institutions in the North. My officials, together with officials from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in the North, meet the organisation on a monthly basis. The development of inland marinas is not a problem for Waterways Ireland. It would be happy to discuss any case the Deputy has in mind.

Departmental Staff.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

590 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of staff appointed by him, from outside the Civil Service, since the general election in 2002; their job descriptions; their salaries and expenses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8338/04]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

I appointed four staff since my appointment in June 2002. They are as follows:

Title of post	Salary Scale	Salary at March 2004	Date of appointment	Expenses1
		€		€
Media Adviser	PO (Standard)	72,128	24 June 2002	23,935.65
Special Adviser	PO (Standard)	69,194	12 January 2004	None
Personal Secretary	Personal secretary plus 10% attraction allowance	39,121	24 June 2002	271.83
Personal Assistant	HEO (Standard)	44,328	24 June 2002	None

1Expenses are those paid to staff from their date of appointment to the end of January 2004.

The staff concerned are entitled to claim travel and subsistence and other relevant expenses under the same terms and conditions applicable to civil servants.

Calaidh agus Céibheanna.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

591 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad é an deontas a ceadaíodh do Ché Theilinn, Dún na nGall, cad é an obair atá déanta, cé hé an conraitheoir agus cad é méid an deontais atá íoctha go dáta. [8471/04]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

Cheadaigh mo Roinnse deontas iomlán de €867,417 do Chomhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall chun an chéibh seo a dheisiú agus chun casadh 15 méadar ar fhad a chur ar a ceann. Ba iad na conraitheoirí Seamus Gillan a rinne an obair agus tá an deontas íoctha amach ina iomláine anois.

Údarás na Gaeltachta.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

592 D’fhiafraigh Mr. O’Dowd den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta i dtaca le forthairiscintí poiblí i leith thithe saoire Eanach Mheáin, cén méid iarratas a fuair an túdarás agus cén méid díobh a cuireadh faoi bhráid an bhoird; sna cáipéisí a eisíodh don chomórtas ar leagadh béim ar phlean gnó chun na tithe a reáchtáil mar thithe saoire ar mhaithe leis an nGaeltacht; ar cuireadh na pleananna gnó seo faoi bhráid bhord an údaráis; cén luacháil a rinneadh ar na hiarratais maidir lena gcuid pleananna leis na tithe a reachtáil chun leasa na Gaeltachta agus na Gaeilge agus cén tionchar a bhí aige sin ar na moltaí a rinneadh; ar glacadh leis an tairiscint ab ísle; ar dhiúltaigh an túdarás do €500,000 sa bhreis a bhí á thairiscint ag grúpa amháin nó don tairiscint ón bhfondúireacht naisiúnta aitheanta a bhí €55,000 níos airde agus plean forbartha acu a chosnódh na céadta mílte eile. [8524/04]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

Dírím aird an Teachta ar an bhfreagra a thug mé ar Cheist Uimh. 146 ar 9 Márta. Tuigim go mbeidh an t-ábhar seo á phlé tuilleadh ag Údarás na Gaeltachta ag cruinniú boird ar 26 Márta agus, ag an bpointe seo, nach bhfuil aon chonradh déanta i leith na maoine seo a dhíol.

Maidir leis an tuairisc a d'iarr mo Roinn ar an údarás faoin gcás seo, is féidir liom a chur in iúl don Teachta go bhfuil eolas áirithe curtha ar fáil dom ach tuigtear dom go mbéidh eolas breise á chur chugam tar éis an chruinnithe réamhluaite. I gcúinsí an cháis, creidim nach mbeadh sé cuí domsa tuileadh a rá ag an tráth seo.

Calaidh agus Céibheanna.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

593 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil iarratas ina Roinn le haghaidh deontais feabhsúcháin ar Ché Inis Oirthear, Dún na nGall; an bhfuil meastachán costais déanta amach agus an gceadóidh sé deontas don obair. [8604/04]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

Tá iarratas ar dheontas faighte ag mo Roinnse ó Chomhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall chun oibreacha a chur i gcrích ar an gcéibh seo ar chostas iomlán de €100,000. Tá an t-iarratas seo á mheas faoi láthair agus cuirfear san áireamh é nuair a bheidh clár céibheanna beaga á roghnú amach anseo.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

594 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of money allocated by his Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the amount of money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access his Department’s services. [8649/04]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

The following organisations focus on disability and are core funded by my Department's community development programme.

Interaction

This is a community participation project for people with disabilities organised under the auspices of the Irish Wheelchair Association. It targets people with disabilities who, because of personal circumstances, have the most difficulty in accessing social, educational and developmental opportunities and experience exclusion from their local community. At present the project is in pilot phase and initially will operate from centres in Kilkenny and Navan. Funding of €87,500 was allocated in 2003.

Kerry Network of People with Disabilities

The network is one of 30 networks of people with disabilities nationwide that collectively form the national organisation, People with Disabilities in Ireland Limited. The network employs five staff, one of which is a community development worker, funded through the CDP programme. Its aims are to create awareness about disability issues in Kerry, to provide a structure in the county through which people with disabilities can participate and influence decision-making and to empower and enable local people with disabilities to participate in their communities. A sum of €40,000 was allocated in 2003.

Disability and Equality Specialist Support Agency

DESSA is an agency that works with projects funded by the community development programme to develop strategies that will facilitate and support the full involvement and inclusion of people with disabilities within the CDP. The agency was established in 2002 and is based in Dublin. It is one of six specialist agencies operating within the CDP and each one has a specific issue based focus. The 2003 allocation was €161,500.

I expect that these organisations will continue to be funded under the programme throughout 2004. Contracts and budgets have yet to be finalised in respect of the current year.

There is no specific funding allocated for persons with disabilities under the local development social inclusion programme. However, this is one of the target groups supported by the programme.

Only a limited range of services are directly provided by my Department to the public. Therefore, no funds have been specifically allocated to enable persons with disabilities to more easily access its services. As part of my Department's customer service action plan, it is proposed to undertake research with a view to identifying persons or groups that have difficulty accessing our services and to seek to eliminate such barriers.

Harbours and Piers.

Jackie Healy-Rae

Question:

595 Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if funding will be made available for Brandon Bay pier, Tralee, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8745/04]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

The pier has been recognised as a strategic Gaeltacht pier under my Department's programme for development that is projected to operate for the period of the National Development Plan 2000-06. Funding has already been provided under the programme for improvement works carried out at Baile na nGall pier. My Department is in ongoing discussions with Kerry County Council with regard to further development of strategic piers in the Kerry Gaeltacht. No decision has as yet been made with regard to the development of Brandon Bay pier.

Community Development.

Mary Upton

Question:

596 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position on important community development applications for lower Crumlin and Drimnagh; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8853/04]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

The Deputy will be aware of the commitment under Partnership 2000 to identify 30 priority areas for inclusion in the community development programme, thereby continuing the development of a nationwide network of projects. In 2003 as many as 15 priority areas were funded and the remainder, including lower Crumlin and Drimnagh, are proposed for inclusion before the end of the year.

Recently my Department received work plans from both areas. They are being assessed and officials from my Department will contact the groups concerned. My Department has contracted the Draíocht Regional Support Agency to continue supporting the management committees in these areas in the intervening period.

Road Network.

Michael Ring

Question:

597 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason road repairs in County Mayo (details supplied) were estimated at €62,000. [8854/04]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

Normally the relevant local authority provides my Department with an estimate for road repairs under Scéim na mBóithre. Mayo County Council provided the estimate referred to by the Deputy. To date the road has not been approved for funding.

Security of the Elderly.

Mary Upton

Question:

598 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 is entitled to avail of the security scheme for the elderly. [8989/04]

Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N. Ahern)

The purpose of the scheme of community support for older people is to improve the security and social support of vulnerable people aged 65 years or over. Voluntary groups and organisations that have undertaken to identify such older people receive a grant. Under the terms of the scheme the grant goes towards the once-off costs of purchase and/or installation of small scale physical security equipment and socially monitored alarm systems.

Later this year the 2004 scheme will be advertised and the person referred to may apply through one of the participating organisations. A list of organisations funded under the scheme in the south Dublin region in 2003 is as follows:

File No.	Group Name	Address	Name	Tel No.	Amount Approved	No. Approved
					€
11	Neighbourhood Watch Greystones	Ashgrove, Kindlestown, Greystones, Co Wicklow	Mrs. Jackie Quinn	01 2876014	129,798.00	320
21	Society of St Vincent de Paul (Conference of St Cecilia)	47 Dangan Park, Kimmage Road West, Dublin 12	Mr. Brendan Dunne	01 4555637	486.00	2
40	Castletown Community Alert	Arklow, Co Wicklow	Mr. Charlie Clonough	0402 37563	630.00	2
45	Lower Kimmage Road Residents Association	4 St Martins Park, Lower Kimmage Road, Dublin 6w	Ms Una Moriarty	01 4908630	172.00	1
110	Aughrim Community Alert	The Avenue, Aughrim, Co Wicklow	Ms Kay Leeson	0404 20100 or 0402 36334	700.00	2
123	Dún Laoghaire — Neighbourhood Watch	c/o Dun Laoghaire Garda station, Corrig Avenue, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin	Ms Mary O’Keeffe		10,200.00	28
135	Templeogue and District Active Retirement Association	30 College Drive, Terenure, Dublin 6w	Mr. Vivian Rynne	01 - 4906491	4,000.00	11
148	Carnew Community Care	Gorey Road, Carnew, Wicklow	Sr. Anne Killeen	055-26371/055-26510	7,600.00	21
184	Corbawn & Area Neighbourhood Watch	10 Corbawn Court, Shankill, Dublin 18	Ms Deirdre Cox	01 - 2821817	300,000.00	935
238	Society of St Vincent de Paul St Peter’s Conference	Fred’s Fashions, Upper Main Street, Arklow, Co Wicklow	Mr. Liam Walker	0402 - 31186	4,850.00	14
309	Hollywood Community Carers Association	Hollywood, Co Wicklow	Ms Marie Tutty	045 - 864289	1,400.00	4
333	Laragh & Glendalough Community Alert	Glenmacnass, Glendalough, Co Wicklow	Ms Denise Nolan	0404 45272	8,700.00	25
336	Slievemore Road Neighbourhood Watch	68 Slievemore Road, Drimnagh, Dublin 12	Ms Teresa Balfe	01- 4651166	203,521.00	531
353	Glencree & Adjoining Areas Community Alert	Cloon, Glencree, Enniskerry, Co Wicklow	Mr. John Burgess	086 2549417	430.00	1
420	Churchtown West Neighbourhood Watch	4 Oakdown Road, Churchtown, Dublin 14	Ms Mary McInerney	01 2951546 / 086 - 8329156	350.00	1
458	Avoca Community Alert	Cherrybrook, Kilmagig Upper, Avoca, Co Wicklow	Ms Bernie Ivers	0402/35179	1,600.00	4
					674,437.00	1,902

Rural Social Scheme.

Michael Ring

Question:

599 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if the guidelines for the rural social scheme for farmers have been drawn up and released; and the position regarding the scheme. [9006/04]

Funding is available for training, education or research initiatives and for refurbishment of premises, or the purchase of equipment and a number of the groups funded under the scheme have a youth focus. It does not provide for the purchase or building of premises.

CLÁR and RAPID programmes — At present the CLÁR programme provides top-up funding of up to 20% to projects in its areas that are selected under the sports capital programme run by the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism. This is subject to overall public funding not exceeding 80%. In 2004 I intend to run a similar RAPID scheme.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

603 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued using the postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the total cost to the Exchequer or EU of events to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9190/04]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

To date my Department has not held functions or receptions in connection with Ireland's Presidency of the EU. As I informed the House on a number of occasions, most recently in my reply to Question No. 155 on 9 March, my Department will organise three Presidency-related events. They are scheduled to take place in May and June.

Question:

636 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs her policy of negotiating with Eircom or other telecommunications providers for the contract for free line rental for pensioners and others in view of the precedent set in 2004 of not covering the whole of the rental charge; if it is her intention to ensure that her Department pay all of the rental charge in the future; and the steps she is taking to ensure that the precedent set in 2004 is not repeated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9077/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 604, 605, 618, 623, 632 and 636 together.

I am happy to confirm that the telephone allowance remains in place. It is payable at the rate of €40.62 per monthly bill, equivalent to €49.39 per bill including VAT. I have no plans to abolish it. The allowance is an important element in the overall social welfare support package for pensioners, the disabled and carers.

I am committed to the development of the telephone allowance scheme to respond to the expanding telecommunications market and to facilitate greater client choice of telephone services. My Department had extensive discussions with the Commission for Telecommunications Regulation and the industry with a view to enabling telephone allowance customers to select a participating telephone service provider that suits their circumstances.

As soon as the ComReg wholesale line rental agreement is operational telephone allowance customers will be entitled to switch between participating provider companies within a reasonable period. They will receive one periodic bill from their provider, including the rental element and the telephone allowance credit.

It will be up to the provider companies concerned to design suitable marketing packages to attract and retain these clients like any other group. It is likely that participating service providers will offer different cost packages to telephone allowance customers.

To ensure that the costs to my Department are predictable and that the telephone allowance does not become a distorting factor in the market, its structure was changed last October to make it a standard cash credit on bills and not attributable to a component charge. The change makes it easier for additional service providers to participate in the scheme by applying a standardised allowance amount to bills irrespective of the tariff components.

At the same time as the change, a special social benefits scheme was negotiated with Eircom. It provides telephone allowance customers with line and equipment rental plus an enhanced call credit of up to €5.35 worth of free calls per bimonthly billing period. The cost of the scheme, €40.82 plus VAT per bi-monthly bill, was at a substantial discount to the previous cost to my Department for these services, as well as giving increased value to social welfare customers.

ComReg subsequently approved a price increase application from Eircom of 7.5% in line rental and a lesser percentage increase in instrument rental, effective from 4 February. I understand that Eircom will offset these increases by rebalancing call costs in order to limit the average private customer bill increase to the level of the consumer price index.

Following detailed discussions with officials of my Department, Eircom agreed that the increase in the cost of its social benefits scheme would be limited to the prevailing rate of CPI at 1.9%. Eircom also agreed to change its scheme and removed some of the additional call unit value. To offset this it offered to give low use customers up to €10 worth of calls free per bi-monthly bill by promoting its separate vulnerable users scheme in addition to its social benefit scheme.

The revised Eircom package resulted in a small increased cost to the social welfare customer of 94 cent, including VAT per bimonthly bill, or about 72 cent per week. This is in comparison to an increase for non-social welfare customers of €3.78 per bill. The further rebalancing of call costs by Eircom should be broadly beneficial to social welfare customers, especially those who make a lower amount of calls.

Any future changes to the telephone allowance will be considered in a budgetary context, in light of available resources and other priorities.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

606 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, further to Parliamentary Question No. 188 of 26 February, if she will review the maximum earnings disregard because these limits have remained static since 1997 and have not kept pace with rates paid by FÁS, as in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8, and is only reached by those with more than eight children. [8277/04]

The number of recipients in the following tabular statement refers to the position at 19 March. Some recipients may be in receipt of a combination of payments such as basic payment and various supplements.

As many as 1,669 payments of an exceptional or urgent need were made to single persons during the week ending 19 March at a cost of €386,644. As many as 818 payments of an exceptional or urgent need were made to persons under 27 years during the week ending 19 March at a cost of €178,657

Details of the current numbers of recipients and the estimated annual cost of categories identified by the Deputy are as follows:

	Recipients	Estimated Annual Cost
		€ million
Recipients of SWA who are single
Basic SWA	16,225	101.72
Rent Supplement	14,363	89.45
Mortgage Interest Supplements	849	1.68
Diet Supplement	3,716	2.13
Heat Supplement	820	0.45
Other Supplements *	2,965	3.93

Recipients of SWA who are Under 27
Basic SWA	10,223	66.96
Rent Supplement	16,497	106.99
Mortgage Interest Supplements	63	0.18
Diet Supplement	518	0.35
Heat Supplement	61	0.37
Other Supplements *	1,518	2.02

Recipients of rent supplement who are under 27 and in receipt of One-parent family payment	6,230	49.13

*Includes crèche, MARS, travel, etc.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

617 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will consider introducing flexibility into the PRSI arrangements for persons who are self-employed to allow them to pay contributions that would qualify them for dental treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8538/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

Workers are generally insurable under the Social Welfare Act either as employed or self-employed contributors. The nature of an employment determines the PRSI contribution due and the range of benefits and pensions contributors can receive.

The majority of insured workers pay PRSI class A contributions. Over a period they can build up an entitlement to a range of benefits and pensions, including dental benefit.

PRSI for the self-employed was introduced in 1988 and they are compulsorily insured since. They are eligible for the following benefits and pensions: widow or widowers' contributory pension; orphans contributory pension; old age contributory pension; maternity benefit; adoptive benefit and bereavement grant.

To extend the range of benefits for self-employed contributors would necessitate an appropriate increase in the rate of PRSI class S contribution. At present there are no plans to extend any of the short-term benefits to the self-employed population of insured workers. Any such measures would have significant financial implications and would have to be considered in the wider budgetary context.

Question No. 618 answered with QuestionNo. 604.

Community Welfare Service.

Denis Naughten

Question:

619 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the changes that will take place in the community welfare service; her plans to move the community welfare offices in the Department of Health and Children to her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8627/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is subject to my general direction and control. It is administered by the health boards' community welfare service on behalf of my Department. The service also has other functions within the health boards' community care programmes.

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is being reviewed by an interdepartmental working group as part of my Department's series of expenditure reviews. It is a fundamental appraisal of the scheme aimed primarily at improving customer service and administrative efficiency.

An advisory group, comprising representatives of the regional health boards, has been established to consider various supplementary welfare allowance policy issues. It will also consider the implications of the health service reform programme for the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.

The desirability of transferring the community welfare service in part or wholly to my Department will be assessed in the light of the above evaluations. My primary objective is to enhance the service provided to those who avail of the supports in a manner that maximises their effectiveness and efficiency.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Seán Crowe

Question:

620 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the implications of lump sum holiday payments with regard to entitlement for unemployment benefit for lollipop ladies. [8631/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

Social welfare legislation provides for the payment of unemployment benefit in respect of days of unemployment. Any day on which a person either receives or has an entitlement to holiday pay is not regarded as a day of unemployment and a person has no entitlement to unemployment benefit in respect of that day. Unemployment benefit cannot be paid in respect of days on which there is an entitlement to holiday pay even where the payment is not made for some time following a period of lay-off.

People in seasonal, term or limited contract employment, including people in school related employment, who claim unemployment benefit must supply details of all holiday pay entitlements due during each temporary lay-off period. Full details of holiday pay entitlements must be provided in respect of each school vacation period in the case of lollipop ladies. This means that the level of entitlement, if any, can be determined. When the required details are provided, payment of any unemployment benefit entitlements is arranged in respect of days not covered by holiday pay, subject to the standard conditions for entitlement to employment benefit. Holiday pay made in lump sums, in some cases, does not affect the way unemployment benefit is calculated.

A person can only have an entitlement to unemployment benefit for any day of unemployment that forms part of a period of interruption of employment. In other words, where he or she is fully unemployed for a period of at least three days in any period of six consecutive days. In addition, payment of unemployment benefit is not made for the first three days of unemployment that are known as waiting days. Where a person had a recent claim in respect of certain schemes payment may be made from the first day of the claim.

Poverty Research.

Seán Crowe

Question:

621 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when her Department proposes to introduce new measures to deal with fuel poverty for the over 65 years of age category; the designated geographic areas of work proposed; the amount of persons that will be targeted; the timescale for the project and moneys she will make available to target this persistent problem. [8634/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

At present my Department is in discussions with Sustainable Energy Ireland with a view to carrying out a fuel poverty action research project. These discussions are still at an early stage and the exact details of the project, such as its geographic location, timescale and the number of persons to be targeted, have yet to be decided.

Until such time as the research project has been completed and evaluated it will not be possible to determine the nature and extent of the resources required to address the issue of fuel poverty. I hope that the first phase of the project will commence in the second quarter of this year.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Question:

622 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount of money allocated by her Department in 2003 and 2004 to directly fund services for persons with disabilities and the amount of money allocated to enabling persons with disabilities to more easily access her Department’s services. [8650/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

My Department administers a number of income support schemes that are specifically targeted at persons who are sick, disabled, or caring for a sick or disabled person. Total expenditure on these schemes in 2003 was €1,619.9 million and the total allocated in 2004 is €1,776.37 million. These sums represent 15.4% and 15.7% of my Department's total expenditure in 2003 and estimates expenditure for 2004, respectively. The schemes are as follows:

Exchequer Financed	2003	2004
	€ million	€ million
Blind Pension	14.80	15.60
Carers Allowance	183.30	203.82
Disability Allowance	463.60	526.10
Social Insurance financed
Disability Benefit	433.50	466.70
Invalidity Pension	439.10	472.10
Occupational Injuries Benefits	78.70	83.55
Carers Benefit	6.90	8.50
Total	1,619.90	1,776.37

My Department also administers a broad range of income support schemes to which both disabled and able-bodied persons have access on an equal basis. Such schemes would include payments to the elderly, unemployed, those trying to access the labour market and those on low income.

Substantial progress has been made in recent years in improving and upgrading the general standard and access facilities of my Department's buildings. Access issues are addressed as part of a comprehensive, ongoing office maintenance and refurbishment programme undertaken in conjunction with the Office of Public Works who ensure compliance with regard to access. It is not possible to identify specific expenditure on works to improve access for people with disabilities within overall expenditure on maintenance and refurbishment. In 2003 my Department spent €2.6 million on maintenance work generally and in 2004 the budget is €2.7 million.

In addition, there is a specific ongoing programme of work being carried out on my Department's existing buildings to provide access for people with disabilities such as the construction of ramps and installation of lifts. The work is being undertaken by the OPW under the disabled access programme administered by it. Any new premises occupied by my Department, such as the recently opened new local office in Navan, include measures to facilitate access for the disabled.

My Department produces a comprehensive range of information booklets covering each social welfare payment, including those for disability payments. These are widely available from social welfare local offices, citizens' information centres and many local organisations or on my Department's LoCall leaflet request line 1890 20 23 25.

In 2003 my Department spent in the region of €250,000 on information booklets for people with disabilities and their carers. This includes the guide to social welfare services. In addition, booklets on the full range of services from disability benefit to entitlements under the back to work allowance were revised and re-issued. These publications will continue to be updated during 2004 and now include the new SW 110 that is a directory of services for the ill and incapacitated.

Under the scheme of grants for the development and promotion of information and welfare rights operated by my Department, once-off grants of €15,000, €25,000 and €10,000 were paid to Kerry Deaf Resources, Irish Sign Link and the Forum Partnership in Letterfrack, respectively, in 2003. To date in 2004 a grant of €18,000 has been made to the Carers' Association.

My Department spent €3,000 in 2003 towards the conversion of the website www.welfare.ie allowing better accessibility for people with disabilities.

Comhairle is the national information agency coming under the aegis of my Department. It supports the provision of independent information, advice and other supports to all citizens, including those with disabilities. Comhairle supports a network of 85 citizens' information centres whose role is to provide information to members of the public on all social services.

In 2003 a total of €1,210.964 was spent supporting or delivering specific activities and initiatives for marginalised groups, including people with disabilities. Within this figure regional Comhairle services spent €253,914 on information and advocacy projects.

Included in this figure are specific allocations for services for people with disabilities in 2003. They are as follows: €211,242 provided through the Comhairle information grants scheme for disability organisations; €43,000 support grant for the National Association for the Deaf; €25,000 to Irish Sign Link; €39,399 for entitlements for people with disabilities booklet; €45,608 for disability information awareness week; €201,153 for access improvements for citizens' information centres; €83,717 for the development of an assistive technology database; and €38,292 for the disability resource centre.

In 2004 a total of €1,200,110 has been allocated to support or deliver specific activities and initiatives for marginalised groups, including people with disabilities. Within this figure regional Comhairle services will spend €275,000 on information and advocacy projects.

Within this figure also specific allocations for services for people with disabilities in 2004 include: €48,610 support grant for the National Association for the Deaf; €35,000 to Irish Sign Link; €40,000 for entitlements for people with disabilities booklet; €150,000 for access improvements for citizens' information centres; €90,000 for the development of an assistive technology database; and €20,000 for the disability resource centre.

My Department has no record of a recent application for disability benefit from the person concerned.

In the context of preparation of the spending Estimates for 2004, entitlement to the concurrent payment of a number of benefits, including the payment of disability benefit concurrently with widow or widower's pensions, was discontinued for new claimants with effect from 19 January. Existing recipients were not affected by the measure for the duration of their claim.

As the person concerned is in receipt of a widow's contributory pension at the maximum rate she is no longer entitled to claim disability benefit concurrently. The measure was introduced in response to the pressure on Government spending and to provide scope for other improvements in social welfare provision in the budget. The operation of this and other measures will be kept under review and any necessary adjustments will be made in the light of this.

In the event of the person concerned becoming unfit for work in the future she should submit medical certificates to my Department. She will then be awarded credited contributions during the period.

Community Welfare Officers.

Michael Ring

Question:

627 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of community welfare officers; the plans that are in place to increase their numbers; and how she intends to deal with the matter. [8881/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is subject to my general direction and control. It is administered on behalf of my Department by the health boards. The scheme operates under the community care programme and is delivered by community welfare officers and superintendent community welfare officers.

At present there are 53 SCWOs and 700 CWOs operating from approximately 1,050 locations throughout the country. Some of them also perform other duties apart from administering the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.

Health boards administer the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, including the assignment of staff. Therefore, it is up to each board to respond to variations in workloads arising from population movement.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Michael Ring

Question:

628 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason an overpayment of social welfare benefit was calculated for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; if her Department will provide a full breakdown of how this overpayment was calculated. [8886/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

The person concerned was in receipt of unemployment assistance at the maximum weekly rate from 11 March 1998 to 24 December 2002. He was also in receipt of a back to work enterprise allowance from 25 December 2002 to 28 February 2004.

In the context of a review of his entitlements, it came to light that the person concerned had a farm. He had not informed my Department of this at the time of his application. When interviewed regarding his farm he stated that he had no stock and no income from the farm in the period from 11 March 1998 to 24 December 2002. He also denied receiving any payments from the Department of Agriculture and Food. It was later established that he received annual payments from that Department, including cattle headage, suckler cow, REPS and area-based payments.

Consequently, a deciding officer disallowed the unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned for the period 11 March 1998 to 24 December 2002. He failed to show that his means did not exceed the statutory limits for receipt of unemployment assistance payments during the period in question. The statutory limits were as follows: €172 from 11 March 1998, €175.35 from 27 May 1998, €181.70 from 26 May 1999, €191.60 from 26 April 2000, €193.89 from 28 March 2001 and €214.40 from 26 December 2001.

As a result of the revised decision by the deciding officer an overpayment of €48,885.55 occurred and is recoverable from the person concerned. This is the total amount of unemployment assistance paid to him during the period in question.

If he considers the decision to be incorrect he can send further documentary evidence to his local social welfare office. He can also appeal the decision to the independent social welfare appeals office.

Under social welfare legislation decisions on claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. They are statutorily appointed and I have no role in making such decisions.

Jack Wall

Question:

629 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position of a person in receipt of the widow’s pension now seeking maternity leave from her employment, due to the major financial loss incurred by her; the alternatives available to overcome the financial implications for the maintenance and welfare of her family during the period of her pregnancy. [8914/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

The social welfare system is primarily a contingency based system with entitlement based on pre-defined contingencies, such as sickness or unemployment. It can happen that a person may experience more than one contingency at the same time. For example, an unemployed person may become sick or pregnant. A general principle usually applies whereby even if a person experiences more than one of the contingencies at the same time they only receive one of those payments. This principle is common to social security systems across the world.

Under the Irish social welfare system there have been a limited number of exceptions to this general principle. In the past these included the situation whereby a widows pensioner could, at the same time, receive short-term social insurance benefits such as disability, unemployment or maternity benefit, at half rate if the contingency arose.

In the context of preparation of the spending Estimates for 2004, this entitlement to concurrent half-rate payment of a number of benefits was discontinued for new claimants with effect from 19 January. Existing recipients were not affected by this measure for the duration of their claim. The measure was introduced in response to the pressure on Government spending and in order to provide scope for other improvements in social welfare provision in the budget. It is my intention that the operation of this and other measures will be kept under review and any necessary adjustments will be made in the light of this.

With regard to the specific circumstances outlined by the Deputy, the maximum personal rate of widow's contributory pension is €140.30 a week, increased by €21.60 for each qualified child. Maternity benefit is an earnings related payment and is subject to a minimum weekly payment of €151.60 and a maximum payment of €232.40. Depending on the particular circumstances, such as the level of earnings from employment and the number of qualified children, it may be more financially beneficial for someone receiving a widow's pension to claim maternity benefit instead for the duration of the maternity leave period.

Social Welfare Appeals.

Jack Wall

Question:

630 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the mechanisms in place in her Department in regard to applicants seeking an unemployment allowance payment that is under appeal; if there is an agreement with the CWO system that such applicants should be awarded a payment before the decision of the appeals board is completed, or if there is a disagreement as to how such a payment should be paid during the period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8915/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

I am always willing to consider applications from licensed private transport operators who may wish to participate in the free travel scheme. While my Department pays transport providers to operate the free travel scheme, it is not in a position to provide transport services where none exist.

Various alternatives to the existing system, including the use of vouchers, have been examined. A study published in 2000 under the Department's programme of expenditure reviews concluded that a voucher type system, that would be open to a wide range of transport providers including taxis and hackneys, would be extremely difficult to administer. It would be open to abuse and unlikely to be sufficient to afford an acceptable amount of travel. The position remains unchanged.

At present the issue of access to public transport in rural areas is being addressed through the rural transport initiative. It is managed by Area Development Management on behalf of my colleague, the Minister for Transport.

Significant improvements have been made to the free schemes, including the free travel scheme, in recent budgets both in terms of the qualifying conditions and the coverage of the schemes. I will continue to review the operation of these schemes with a view to identifying the scope for further improvements as resources permit.

Bereavement Support Groups.

David Stanton

Question:

635 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the funding available to support families of suicide bereaved and to further support such families with funeral costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9057/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

There are a number of schemes within the social welfare system to assist families in dealing with death and funeral expenses.

The bereavement grant is a payment based on PRSI contributions and is designed to assist families in dealing with death and funeral expenses. It amounts to €635 and is paid by cheque to the husband, wife, next of kin or personal representative of the deceased or to the person responsible for the payment of the funeral bill.

The widowed parent's grant is designed to assist with the income support needs of widows and widowers with dependent children in the immediate aftermath of a bereavement. It is payable to widows and widowers with dependent children who qualify for a widow or widower's contributory pension, a one-parent family payment or a bereavement grant payable on the death of their spouse.

A qualified child for the purpose of the grant is a child under 18 years or a child between the ages of 18 and 22 years who is in full-time education. The rate of the widowed parent's grant increased to €2,700 from December 2003.

In most cases the scheme of six weeks after death payments is payable to the qualified adult of claimants of contributory and non-contributory payments. The payment is generally made in a lump sum by cheque when the bereaved person produces a death certificate and funeral bill or funeral notice.

Support for bereaved families is also available in the form of specialist counselling provided by voluntary organisations. In turn they are funded through a scheme of grants administered by the Family Support Agency.

The scheme of grants funds bereavement counselling and support services on the death of a family member. They also fund voluntary organisations that provide marriage counselling, marriage preparation courses and counselling for children of separated parents.

In 2003 the sum of €7.009 million was allocated under the scheme. Over €1 million of it was allocated to organisations providing bereavement counselling and support services and 370 organisations nationwide received grants. This included six organisations specifically dealing with bereavement following suicide. They were as follows:

	Amount Allocated
	€
National Suicide Support Network, Cork	4,000
Facing up to Suicide, Dublin	6,000
Kildare Suicide Bereavement Support Group	7,000
Midlands Suicide Bereavement Support Group, Laois	1,500
Wexford Suicide Bereavement Support Group	700
Bray Suicide Bereavement Support Group, Wicklow	3,000.

Application forms for the 2004 scheme of grants was issued to all organisations that received funding last year. The closing date for receipt of applications was Friday, 27 February. Applications have been received from five of the above listed organisations and from a new applicant, the Kerry Suicide Support Group deals specifically with suicide. The Wexford Suicide Bereavement Support Group has not applied for funding this year. The applications will be considered having regard to available resources and overall demand for funding.

Question No. 636 answered with QuestionNo. 604.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Martin Ferris

Question:

637 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will make a statement on the status of fishermen employed on a share basis and their social welfare benefits; if they are categorised as self-employed or employees; the criteria for classification; and if not self-employed, their entitlements to benefits. [9078/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

The employment status of sharefishermen for social insurance purposes was considered by the High Court hearing two appeals on a question of law under section 271 of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act 1993. A judgement confirmed earlier judgements of the court in the matter and was delivered in October 2001.

The High Court held that sharefishermen who offer their services to boat owners and skippers in the manner that is customary in the industry, that is with payment based on a share of the catch, do so as self-employed co-venturers or partners and are not employed under a contract of service. Therefore, they are not employees. Accordingly, they are insurable at class S as self-employed persons.

Entitlement to benefit for persons insurable at class S comprises the following: widow and widower's contributory pension; orphan's contributory allowance; old age contributory pension; maternity benefit; adoptive benefit; and a bereavement grant.

Sharefishermen who are insurable at class S may also enhance their PRSI cover by availing of an optional scheme of social insurance, class P, that was introduced in 1994. It gives them the option, on payment of an additional contribution, of enhancing their social insurance cover over and above that available to other self-employed persons. Payment of the additional contribution provides limited cover for disability benefit and unemployment benefit as well as full cover for treatment benefits.

Fishermen who are not self-employed or those who are employees working under a contract of service are insurable at class A. It provides cover for all social welfare benefits and pensions.

Determination of a person's insurable status is carried out by deciding officers under the provisions of section 247 of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act 1993. A deciding officer has regard to the relevant statute law, case law and the facts and circumstances of each case when making a determination.

As regards the criteria employed, the High Court has held that fishermen are partners in a "joint adventure" in circumstances where: each weekly voyage is a separate venture and no crew member has a contract that entitles him to take part in any subsequent voyage; crew members do not receive payment of wages for participating in a fishing expedition but become entitled to a share in the net profits, if any; and, most importantly, although the boat owner or skipper engages each crew member, he does not decide what the rate of remuneration will be and is determined by custom and agreement between the parties.

Fishermen who work in circumstances where the three factors mentioned above apply, and are paid solely by a share of the value of the catch, are likely to be self-employed and insurable at class S. Those who are paid by fixed basic wage or salary are more likely to be employees of the boat owner or skipper and insurable at class A.

Where there is doubt as to a fisherman's status, my Department's scope section may be requested to provide a formal determination.

Seán Ardagh

Question:

638 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs her views on the qualifying criteria for receipt of payment under the family income supplement, particularly for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if she can change it so that people in these circumstances benefit in the future. [9079/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

Family income supplement is designed to provide cash support for employees on low earnings with families. It preserves the incentive to remain in employment in circumstances where the employee might only be marginally better off than if they claimed other social welfare payments.

As an employment support, it is important that qualification for FIS requires a significant attachment to the workforce. The current minimum level is 19 hours per week or 38 hours per fortnight. A combination of hours worked by both spouses or partners may be taken into account for this purpose.

As a reduction in the minimum number of hours required would run counter to the principal aim of the scheme I have no plans to introduce any changes in this regard.

Question No. 639 answered with QuestionNo. 633.

EU Presidency.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

640 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of locations and status of functions or receptions held in connection with Ireland’s Presidency of the EU; the number and status of those invited to attend; if Garda motorcycle escorts were provided in any or all instances; if invitations were issued by way of postal service or by other means in every case; if not, the nature of the exception; the total cost to the exchequer or EU of events to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9191/04]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mary Coughlan)

To date my Department have jointly hosted one Presidency event. It was an informal Council meeting involving employment and social policy Ministers and it was held in Galway from 16 to 17 January. As many as 200 delegates, including Ministers and their accompanying officials and representatives from the Commission, the European Parliament and the Council secretariat, attended the meeting and 370 attended the gala dinner. Garda escorts were provided for Ministers. Invitations were generally issued by post and e-mail but a courier was used in some cases. The cost of the event is being shared between my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. All invoices for the event have not yet been received. The cost to my Department was initially estimated at €335,000. It now appears that the cost will be less than that.

Dáil Éireann debate - Tuesday, 23 Mar 2004

Insurance Levy.

Dinny McGinley

Tax Harmonisation.

Bernard Allen

Trevor Sargent

Special Savings Scheme.

Dinny McGinley

Tax Code.

Ciarán Cuffe

Fiscal Policy.

John Perry

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Ryan

Tax Yield.

Trevor Sargent

Fiscal Policy.

Damien English

Public Private Partnerships.

Paul Kehoe

John Gormley

Tax Yield.

Gay Mitchell

Ruairí Quinn

John Gormley

Decentralisation Programme.

Liz McManus

Pádraic McCormack

Ciarán Cuffe

Public Sector Jobs.

Dan Boyle

Paul Connaughton

Pension Provisions.

Joan Burton

Decentralisation Programme.

Liam Twomey

Tax Code.

Joe Costello

Charlie O'Connor

Disabled Drivers.

Pádraic McCormack

Jim O'Keeffe

Cecilia Keaveney

Olivia Mitchell

Bernard J. Durkan

Tax Code.

Joan Burton

International Monetary Fund.

Eamon Gilmore

European Council Meetings.

Mary Upton

Decentralisation Programme.

Kathleen Lynch

Stability and Growth Pact.

Phil Hogan

Decentralisation Programme.

Jim O'Keeffe

Olivia Mitchell

EU Presidency.

Joe Sherlock

National Development Finance Agency.

Michael Ring

Non-Resident Accounts.

Joe Sherlock

Company Closures.

Eamon Ryan

Tax Yield.

David Stanton

European Central Bank.

Eamon Gilmore

Dan Boyle

Carbon Tax.

Damien English

Tax Code.

Brendan Howlin

Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Mar 2004