Vol. 592 No. 2
74 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has extended the employment action plan to all customers on the live register for over six months; if so, the number of persons who have been on the live register for over six months and have availed of the employment action plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28146/04]
The employment action plan commenced in September 1998 as part of Ireland's response to the European employment strategy. The focus has been on preventing people drifting into long-term unemployment. Under the terms of the plan, people of varying durations on the live register have been referred to FÁS for intervention. This intervention can comprise placement in a job or on a FÁS training or education course.
When the plan commenced in September 1998, those less than 25 years of age were selected for referral as they approached six months on the live register. From March 1999, those less than 25 years of age were also selected as they approached 18 months on the live register. Selection as they approached 12 months on the live register was subsequently extended to those between 25 and 34 years of age from May 1999 and to those between 35 and 55 years of age from February 2000. From July 2000, the threshold for selection was reduced from 12 to nine months for those between 25 and 55 years of age and subsequently to six months from March 2003. From March 2003, a common threshold of six months applies to all those between 18 and 55 years of age.
Following a commitment contained in the programme for Government, a systematic referral of people who have been on the live register for over six months commenced in June 2003. Initially commencing in the Dublin region, this process was extended to all remaining regions by the end of 2003. The purpose of this intensification was to give people who were of longer term duration on the live register and who had not previously been referred to FÁS the opportunity of benefiting from the referral process. In some instances these people can be suffering from severe disadvantage in terms of labour market participation and referral to FÁS on a systematic basis will begin the process of addressing these disadvantages.
Under the terms of the referral process, all people between 18 and 55 years of age who are over six months on the live register and have not previously been selected for inclusion in the employment action plan process are being selected for referral to FÁS. FÁS then commences a guidance process with each individual who attends and a progression plan to address employability barriers is agreed. To date, some 25,600 people have been selected for such referral. At present, there are a further 5,100 people who are on the live register for longer than six months and have yet to be selected for referral to FÁS. At the present selection rate, it is estimated that all people will have been selected by September 2005. At that stage it has been agreed with FÁS that the provisions of the plan will be made available to people over 55 years of age who are on the live register.
This intensification of the provisions of the employment action plan is part of the strategy to help those displaced from labour market activity find employment or further education and training.
75 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the situation regarding the review of the family which he has been undertaking. [28167/04]
The project referred to by the Deputy is intended to begin a strategic process under which issues affecting families would be addressed in an integrated way across the range of Departments and agencies currently involved in issues impacting on families. The project commenced with a public consultation process by way of five regional fora held during 2003 which gave rise to the publication of "Families and Family Life in Ireland: Challenges for the Future" earlier this year.
An interdepartmental committee, IDC, was established to oversee the development of the document and issued a call for submissions to non-governmental organisations interested in family issues to inform the deliberative process. Some 25 contributions were subsequently received and are being reviewed by the committee. The committee also tendered for an expert to prepare an introduction to the review outlining the main issues facing families today. This document is nearing completion and will discuss the role of families and the impact on families and family life of the demographic, social and economic changes taking place in society and what changes might be necessary in current policies and programmes in response to that. The Departments represented on the interdepartmental committee are also identifying the policy areas for which they have responsibility as well as reviewing the recommendations of the Commission on the Family which come within their remit.
In addition to setting out the trends relating to families and family life, it is intended that the review will identify the challenges to be faced and consider the appropriate strategies to meet these challenges, what measures might be taken to give effect to the strategies in the immediate term and the measures which might be planned for in the longer term. The institutional arrangements which might be required to ensure that the measures are implemented in an integrated manner will also be addressed.
In drawing up the strategy, I will also take full account of the findings of the Irish EU Presidency conference "Families, Change and Social Policy in Europe" which was held in Dublin Castle in May to mark at EU level the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family. It is my intention to have the substantive work in connection with the project completed by the end of this year, the tenth anniversary of the UN International Year of Families, with a view to completion of the review and its publication early in the new year.
76 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on whether radical action is required if the commitment to ensure that 70% of workers make pension provision by 2006 is to be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28191/04]
129 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons in possession of a PRSA account; if he has satisfied himself that this number is in keeping with Government targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28198/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 76 and 129 together.
Information on the number of personal retirement savings accounts, PRSAs, opened is received by the Pensions Board from PRSA providers at the end of each quarter. The latest figures available relate to the end of September 2004 and these show that 37,086 accounts have been opened with a total asset value of €106.6 million.
It is Government policy to encourage people to participate in occupational and private pension arrangements so that they can, when they retire, aim to maintain their pre-retirement standard of living. The national pensions policy initiative suggested that up to 70% of those in employment, who are 30 years of age or over, will need to supplement their social welfare pension for this purpose. At present, over 59% of people in this target group have supplementary pensions cover.
PRSAs were launched in 2003 and are one of the main policy instruments being used in pursuit of Government targets in this area. The Government is also undertaking a pensions awareness campaign, through the Pensions Board, to encourage take up of all types of private and occupational pensions, not just PRSAs. Since the launch of PRSAs, the numbers opening accounts has grown steadily. In September 2003, the number of people with accounts was 6,707 and, as already indicated, this had grown to over 37,000 by the end of September this year. The number of people participating in occupational pension schemes increased by 2% in 2003.
Research shows that there is now a high level of awareness of pensions issues amongst the general public and the challenge is to translate this into increased coverage. The Pensions Board is running a targeted awareness campaign this year aimed at groups with low pensions coverage. It has also been involved in an extensive control project to identify employers who are not honouring their legal obligations with regard to access to PRSAs for their employees. Some 64,000 employers have been contacted and the Pensions Board is currently analysing the responses received.
The take up of PRSAs and pensions coverage generally is being monitored closely by my Department and there is no doubt that the overall number of people with pensions has increased. Under legislation a review of the overall coverage position is required by September 2006 and, at that stage, the nature of any further action required in this area will be decided on.
77 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if consideration is being given to have payments being made by other Government Departments to be more readily made by his Department. [28174/04]
The Department of Social and Family Affairs pays a wide range of benefits to persons based on an identified income support need. Payments such as unemployment benefit and disability benefit address the needs of persons who might have lost an income through redundancy or through illness. Payments such as supplementary welfare allowance or the other main means tested payments are made where a person's income is insufficient to meet their ongoing living needs and/or the needs of their family.
My Department has in the past successfully incorporated into the social welfare system payments which had been made by health boards where it was clear that the payment addressed a primary income support need. Hence, the payment of supplementary welfare allowance was incorporated into the mainstream social welfare system on 1 July 1977, although significant aspects of its delivery and administration are still conducted by health board staff. In 1996, the Department of Social Welfare took over the disabled persons maintenance allowance, DPMA, from the health boards and renamed it disability allowance.
My Department continues to keep the appropriateness of income support payment arrangements under review. A recent review of illness and disability schemes concluded, with regard to the infectious diseases maintenance allowance currently paid by health boards, that "the current arrangements for dealing with the social assistance needs of those who are short-term ill or disabled should continue to apply". In addition, "the infectious diseases (maintenance) allowance should be merged into the supplementary welfare allowance scheme". Arrangements are being made to progress this recommendation by my Department in association with the health boards.
The review of illness and disability schemes also considered the limitation on the payment of DA to persons in residential institutions before a certain date and recommended its removal. The working group recognised that the removal would have a range of implications that would not be possible to assess at that time. However, in recognition of a lack of specific information about the practical implication of removing the limitations it was also recommended that progress could be made by taking over from the health boards the discretionary pocket money allowance currently paid to some persons affected by the limitation. Budget 2003 provided for the transfer to begin and sufficient information has now been gathered to address this issue.
No decisions have been made regarding the transfer of other payments to my Department at this time. That being said, the effective and efficient delivery of income supports is a primary objective of the Government and the position regarding such payments must be kept under review.
I understand the Deputy is particularly concerned with payments made by health boards, such as domiciliary care allowances, mobility allowance and other payments. Some of these payments are viewed more in the nature of addressing the cost of disability rather than as income support payments. The range of issues which these raise are considerably wider than income support payments and for this reason a social partnership working group was set up specifically to examine these issues. The working group is chaired by the Department of Health and Children and various Departments, including my own, contribute to the work of the group. The work of this group is ongoing.
78 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the circumstances under which the rent allowance supplement for private accommodation is withdrawn; if it is withdrawn if a person refuses an offer of accommodation from a local authority due to the fact that they believe the accommodation to be substandard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28188/04]
117 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the circumstances under which the rent supplement allowance is withdrawn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28189/04]
138 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his and the Government’s definition of a genuine housing need with regard to his comments on the supplementary welfare rent allowance in Dáil Éireann on 6 October 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28124/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 78, 117 and 138 together.
Rent supplements are provided through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme which is administered by the health boards on behalf of my Department. One of the conditions for receipt of rent supplement is that the tenant must be in need of accommodation and must be unable to provide for it from his or her own resources.
Under previous arrangements, health boards for the most part decided whether an applicant for rent supplement was in need of accommodation without reference to the local authority. Under the arrangements now in place, more systematic referral of applicants gives an increased role for local authorities in this area. Ultimately, it is a matter for the local authorities to determine whether a person has a genuine housing need in accordance with the criteria set out in section 9 of the Housing Act 1988.
If an applicant for rent supplement has not been assessed by a local authority as being in need of housing, they are not necessarily excluded from receiving rent supplement on that account. A number of categories of people are exempted from the requirement to be assessed by the local authority, including elderly people, people with disabilities, those regarded as homeless and people leaving institutions such as prisons. The scheme is also flexible in providing support for existing private sector tenants who have been renting a period of time and who have recently experienced an income maintenance need, for example, because they have become unemployed.
In the past it had been possible for people to refuse State support from the local housing authority in respect of their housing needs in favour of availing indefinitely of rent supplement from the health board in respect of those same housing needs. It is currently a condition of any claimant's entitlement to a rent supplement that he or she has not refused, within any continuous 12 month period commencing on or after 31 January 2004, a second offer of accommodation provided by the local housing authority.
In this regard, offers made by a local housing authority are in respect of accommodation which is of an acceptable standard, suitable to the applicant's needs and in an area chosen by the person themselves. If a rent supplement recipient considers that the accommodation offered by the local authority is not suitable then they must pursue the matter with the local authority. If the offer is withdrawn by the local authority, rent supplement remains in payment.
In addition to people who refuse local authority accommodation without reasonable cause, rent supplement may be withdrawn from a person whose financial circumstances have changed to the degree to which they are deemed to have sufficient means to meet their accommodation costs themselves.
79 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in view of the up coming budget, he will return eligibility for back to work enterprise allowance and back to work allowance to 15 and 12 months respectively in view of the hardships incurred in this sector. [28116/04]
The back to work allowance scheme is part of my Department's programme of initiatives designed to assist long-term unemployed people, lone parents and other social welfare recipients to return to the active labour force. There are two strands to the scheme, the back to work enterprise allowance for self employment and the back to work allowance for employees.
The allowance was introduced in 1993 at a time when long-term unemployment stood at 8.9%. In its early years the scheme proved effective in helping people who had been long-term unemployed to return to the labour force. However, changes in labour market conditions since the mid-1990s have reduced the need for the scheme. This is illustrated by the drop in numbers availing of it in recent years. At present, there are 12,097 participants in the scheme, compared to 39,343 in October 2000 when the scheme reached its peak.
The scheme was reviewed in 2002 in the light of economic and labour market changes and, in particular, the drop in unemployment levels since its introduction. This review also took account of an evaluation of the scheme by independent consultants. They recommended that the scheme should be restructured in the light of the changes in the labour market. In particular, the review recommended that the scheme be refocused on the longer-term unemployed, that the non-financial supports be enhanced and that the overall numbers on the scheme be reduced. In January 2003, therefore, the qualifying period for persons on unemployment benefit-assistance was increased to five years. Recipients of other social welfare qualifying payments were not affected by the change.
The scheme is continually monitored to ensure its relevance to current labour market and economic conditions. It was recognised that there was some difficulty being experienced by persons wishing to enter self employment after five years attachment to the live register. Therefore in budget 2004 the qualifying period for access to the self employed strand of the scheme was reduced to three years. From March 2004, persons in receipt of unemployment benefit/assistance accessing the self-employed strand of the scheme only require three years on their unemployment payment to qualify for participation in the scheme.
There is no evidence that focusing the scheme on the long-term unemployed has caused hardship. However, I will continue to monitor the scheme to ensure that it continues to assist those furthest from the labour market to gain a foothold into sustainable employment or self employment.
81 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the policy reasons behind the decision that involvement in the special saving investment accounts will be counted as means against any future social welfare payments. [28168/04]
I have recently asked my Department to carry out a comprehensive examination of the current arrangements for assessment of capital, particularly in so far as they apply to SSIAs, and I will consider what action needs to be taken on foot of it. I expect that this examination will be concluded in the near future.
Overall, in assessing means for social assistance purposes, account is taken of any cash income the person may have, together with the value of capital and property. Capital may include the following: stocks and shares of every description, which are assessed according to their current market value; savings certificates, bonds, national instalment savings, which are assessed according to their current market value; money invested in a bank, building society and so forth. Under current arrangements amounts held in SSIA accounts are treated in the same manner as other capital outlined above and no specific decision has been made about them.
In assessing the value of capital, however, significant disregards are applied. The first €12,697.38 of capital is disregarded and the assessment is on a sliding scale for amounts above this. In the case of old age pension, for example, a single pensioner with capital of up to €20,315.80 qualifies for a full pension while a single pensioner with capital of up to €68,565.84 qualifies for a minimum pension. These amounts are doubled in the case of married pensioners.
82 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his intentions regarding carers in the Book of Estimates in 2004 further to his recent commitment to do something special for carers in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28218/04]
108 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has received the pre-budget submission from Caring for Carers Ireland; his views on whether the most immediate and effective way to ease the plight of thousands of carers is to abolish the means test for the carer’s allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28193/04]
204 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the extent to which he can expect to increase the number of persons entitled to carer’s allowance in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28461/04]
205 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will give favourable consideration to a major expansion of the numbers entitled to carer’s allowance having particular regard to the ever growing need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28462/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 82, 108, 204 and 205 together.
Supporting carers in our society has been a priority of the Government since 1997. Over that period weekly payment rates to carers have been greatly increased, qualifying conditions for carer's allowance have been significantly eased, coverage of the scheme has been extended and new schemes such as carer's benefit and the respite care grant have been introduced. The 2004 Estimates provide for expenditure of over €203.8 million on the carer's allowance scheme and €8.5 million on the carer's benefit scheme. This represents a combined increase of over 11.6% on last year's expenditure on carer's payments.
The primary objective of the carer's allowance is to provide income support to low income carers. In line with other social assistance schemes, the means test is applied to the carer's allowance so as to ensure that limited resources are directed to those in greatest need. The means test applied to the allowance has been eased significantly in the past few years, most notably with the introduction of disregards of spouse's earnings. In April 2004 the weekly income disregards increased to €250 for a single carer and to €500 for a couple.
The effect of this increase, for example, ensures that a couple with two children, earning a joint annual income of up to €29,328 can qualify for the maximum rate of carer's allowance, while the same couple, if they had an income of €46,384 could still qualify for the minimum carer's allowance, the free schemes and the respite care grant. As average industrial earnings in December 2003 were approximately €29,100 per annum, good progress is being made towards the commitment in the programme for Government that all persons on average industrial earnings will be able to qualify for the carer's allowance.
The complete abolition of the means test would have substantial cost implications. It is estimated, based on available data, that abolition of the means test could cost in the region of €160 million per annum. This estimate should be taken as an order of magnitude given the difficulties in costing such a proposal. It is debatable whether this proposal could be considered to be the best use of resources. The views of some support and health organisations, for example, is that if resources of this scale were available, it would be more beneficial to carers to invest in the type of community care services which would support them in their caring role, such as additional respite care facilities.
Government policy is strongly in favour of supporting care in the community and enabling people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. The development of the range of supports for carers will continue to be a priority for this Government and, building on the foundations now in place, we will continue to develop the types of services which recognise the value of the caring ethos and which provide real support and practical assistance to the people involved.
Proposals involving additional expenditure will be considered in the context of the forthcoming budget. As part of this process my Department is currently undertaking an internal review of the carer's allowance and carer's benefit schemes, taking account of the issues that have been raised in many fora. In addition to examining all the pre-budget submissions sent to me, including that of Caring for Carers Ireland, I am also engaged in meeting a wide variety of community and voluntary groups, including carers' representative groups, to hear their concerns.
83 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his Department has examined the potential for enhanced data sharing to improve the operation of the employment action plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28149/04]
My Department has worked closely with FÁS, in its capacity as the national training and employment service, over a number of years to enhance training and development opportunities available to unemployed customers and other customers. This close working arrangement has meant that a level of data exchange has always existed between my Department and FÁS. FÁS, for example, has access to certain elements of my Department's computer system to facilitate speedy processing of customers registering with it. Similarly, FÁS regularly sends batch data to my Department in respect of persons who have commenced or completed their training and development programmes.
Since 1998, there has been increased co-operation in the context of the preventative strategy of the employment action plan under which unemployed customers are systematically referred to FÁS to avail of training and development opportunities. This involves my Department forwarding details of persons' social welfare status to FÁS which in turn reports back on customers' progress within the process to my Department via an electronic transfer of codified information.
This co-operation was within the framework of a memorandum of understanding signed by both organisations. In April 2004, a new memorandum of understanding was signed which reflects the increased co-operation between the organisations as well as changes in the labour market environment in which we operate. The new memorandum contains an explicit commitment to enhance the sharing of relevant data and methods of doing this are being investigated currently by both organisations. Each organisation is examining its internal enhanced data requirements at present and a joint working group is being formed to progress matters. It is intended that enhanced data exchange will incorporate matters such as the specific type of training, employment or education offered by FÁS to persons participating in the employment action plan.
The data exchanged will also indicate whether a referred person is engaging fully in the process and availing of progression offers made by FÁS. The exchange of enhanced data will facilitate appropriate interventions being made by both organisations in a timely fashion. In addition to this, the memorandum has facilitated the establishment of local and regional networks where relevant personnel from both organisations meet on a regular basis to identify and resolve issues arising. The employment action plan is a significant tool in assisting persons on the live register being reintegrated into the labour market.
Exchange of data between my Department and FÁS is central to the success of the plan and both organisations are working to optimise the level and extent of data exchanged.
85 Mr. English asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the details of the pilot programme planned for certain persons on disability allowance; if this pilot programme has commenced; the results of same and future plans he has for the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28129/04]
Disability allowance is a weekly payment made in 2003 to over 67,000 people with a disability in 2003 at a cost of over €460 million. Recipients must be aged 16 years or over and under age 66 years. The disability must be expected to last for at least one year and the allowance is subject to both medical suitability and a means test.
A pilot project to support people with disabilities will commence in early 2005 based in the Midlands Health Board area — counties Longford, Westmeath, Offaly and Laois — of the country to address the important issue of how persons in receipt of this payment might be better assisted into employment. The pilot project is being undertaken in association with FÁS and the Midland Health Board and marks an important step in exploring a more integrated employment support approach for people with disabilities.
The project will facilitate localised responses to the identified needs of those considered suitable for the project based on an inter-agency approach. It will initially deal with existing customers of disability allowance between 18 and 25 years of age and this phase is expected to take six months to complete. Based on the initial outcomes of phase 1, phase 2, dealing with new entrants to the scheme, will follow for a further six month period. A range of existing employment supports are available to people with disabilities and these are provided on a multi-agency basis. These functions have, thus far, generally operated independently of each other. The initiative will pilot a more co-ordinated support approach for people with disabilities.
Based on an analysis undertaken by my Department, there are some 6,467 persons between 16 and 25 years of age who are in receipt of disability allowance who are not regarded as having disabilities which are profound in nature. The initial target group will be drawn from this cohort.
The specific objectives of the project are to: provide an integrated point of contact for persons with disabilities and a multi-agency examination of their training and employment support potential; facilitate participation in training and employment supports by addressing the needs of groups with high risks of poverty, that is, people with disabilities; reduce social welfare dependency and create economic independence for individuals with disabilities; examine the nature and extent of existing supports used by various providers to assist people with disabilities to progress to employment or other opportunities; analyse and benchmark the outcomes of the pilot against previous approaches. The pilot will allow for better use of existing training-employment supports services and schemes that are provided by the relevant agencies concerned.
The pilot and its follow up will play an important role in the development of policy for people with disabilities, particularly in reaching their full potential through employment.
86 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will consider substantially increasing child benefit with a view to meeting the child care requirements of parents in today’s workforce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28133/04]
112 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when he will honour the long held but as yet undelivered commitment to deliver a series of child benefit increases over a three year period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28196/04]
203 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will favourably consider substantially increasing child benefit as a means of addressing the child care issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28460/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 86, 112 and 203 together.
The policy direction followed by successive Governments has been to concentrate resources for child income support on the child benefit scheme. Child benefit is neutral vis-à-vis the employment status of parents and, therefore, does not contribute to unemployment or poverty traps. It delivers a standard rate of payment in respect of all children in a family regardless of income levels or employment status.
Child benefit supports all children and assists those on low incomes more in relative terms. It is not intended primarily to meet child care costs but to provide assistance generally to parents in the cost of raising children, regardless of the household's income or employment status. In this way it does not distort parental choice in respect of labour force participation and contributes towards alleviating child poverty. The concentration of additional resources in child benefit avoids the employment disincentives associated with increased child dependant allowances and has underpinned the policy of successive Governments since 1994.
In budget 2001, the Minister for Finance announced a multi-annual programme of increases in child benefit to the value of €1.27 billion over three years. This was subsequently extended to five years, to be completed in 2005. Over the period since 1997, the value of all social welfare payments has increased in real terms. In particular, the monthly rates of child benefit have increased by €93.51 at the lower rate and €115.78 at the higher rate, increases of 246% and 234% respectively, compared with inflation of 26.9%. This level of increase is unprecedented and delivers on the Government's objective of providing support for children generally while offering real choice to all parents.
Looking ahead, my priorities include making further progress on our child benefit strategy along with the other commitments on social welfare contained in Sustaining Progress, the national anti-poverty strategy and the programme for Government. The question of further rationalisation of child benefit will be a matter for consideration in a budgetary context and in the context of priorities generally.
87 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his definition of hardship with regard to his comments on rescinding the cutbacks from the Estimates for 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28123/04]
The Estimates for the Department of Social and Family Affairs announced last November included a number of provisions to better target resources within the social welfare code. My Department is currently reviewing all the measures in question having regard to: whether the implementation of the measures may be causing hardship; the factors that may be leading to that outcome; the availability of other measures which could alleviate a likely negative impact on the individual; policy or other developments since the measures were announced last year; and to propose and consider possible solutions to any difficulties associated with the various measures.
In this context, a key issue is whether any of the measures, or an aspect of same, is having a significant adverse impact on individuals, be it financially or otherwise, having regard to the overall purpose of each individual measure. I expect this review to be completed in the near future and I will bring forward proposals, if appropriate, in light of the findings of the review.
88 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the consideration being given to introducing tapered social welfare payments for those who are close to or barely exceed means test levels. [28176/04]
A number of current features of social welfare schemes are designed to make them more employment friendly by removing disincentives associated with loss of benefits on taking up employment.
Examples of such measures for people returning to work are: one-parent family payment, where the first €146.50 weekly earnings plus 50% of earnings from €146.51 to €293 are disregarded; unemployment assistance, where 40% of net earnings from part-time work are disregarded; retention of rent-mortgage interest supplement and other secondary benefits on a tapered basis in certain circumstances; tapered withdrawal of adult and child dependent increases as the spouse-partner's earnings from employment increase; farm assist, where 30% of earnings from self-employment are disregarded; family income supplement, where 40% of net earnings are disregarded.
Further improvements to incentives to encourage people to take up employment fall to be considered in a budgetary context.
89 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the numbers availing of and the amount of funding involved in the farm assist scheme in each year that it has been in operation giving details on a county by county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28182/04]
The details requested by the Deputy in so far as they are available are set out in the attached table. The cost of funding the farm assist scheme is not available in the format requested by the Deputy but I am providing a separate table of the total cost of the scheme on a yearly basis since its inception.
At the end of October 2004, there were 8,486 people in receipt of a farm assist payment. The amount paid to each farmer depends on a number of factors, for example, family size, whether the spouse-partner is working and any means assessed from all sources. The farm assist scheme is a practical response by my Department to the situation of low income farmers and it represents a long-term safety net for them. It benefits farm families with children and also provides increased payments to farming couples without children and to single farmers on low income.
The level of take up is less than had been anticipated when the scheme was first introduced in April 1999. One of the factors impacting on the take up of the scheme is the significant increase in off-farm employment in recent years. However, the benefits to those who have joined it have been significant. The scheme makes a valuable contribution to supporting those who are at the lower end of the farm income spectrum. In calculating means for the purposes of farm assist, account is taken of the gross yearly income which the farmer and his or her spouse/partner may reasonably expect to receive from farming or any other self employment, less any expenses necessarily incurred in carrying on the business.
Where a farmer disagrees with a means assessment, he or she may appeal the decision to the social welfare appeals office. In addition, where a farmer feels that his or her circumstances have changed since the most recent assessment, he or she may request a means review.
A new scheme, the rural social scheme, RSS, was introduced by the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs with effect from May 2004. This scheme is designed specifically for rural people and is a community work programme, with a focus on the provision of direct services in the community. At the end of September 2004, 45 farmers had transferred from farm assist to the rural social scheme.
The following table shows a breakdown by county of farm assist recipients. It should be noted that the figures have been compiled from data that is maintained on a local office catchment area basis and these do not correspond exactly with county boundaries.
|
County |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
29/11/04 |
|
Carlow |
53 |
58 |
72 |
72 |
71 |
61 |
|
Cavan |
287 |
303 |
323 |
307 |
312 |
310 |
|
Clare |
438 |
451 |
458 |
466 |
464 |
461 |
|
Cork |
447 |
507 |
552 |
577 |
599 |
599 |
|
Donegal |
1,007 |
1,100 |
1,165 |
1,211 |
1,219 |
1,183 |
|
Dublin |
9 |
13 |
11 |
11 |
12 |
12 |
|
Galway |
770 |
835 |
847 |
887 |
898 |
902 |
|
Kerry |
686 |
696 |
705 |
691 |
694 |
657 |
|
Kildare |
36 |
41 |
42 |
43 |
49 |
46 |
|
Kilkenny |
78 |
98 |
111 |
112 |
128 |
128 |
|
Laois |
68 |
77 |
89 |
94 |
94 |
87 |
|
Leitrim |
223 |
238 |
247 |
250 |
260 |
225 |
|
Limerick |
185 |
186 |
237 |
226 |
221 |
214 |
|
Longford |
100 |
107 |
112 |
113 |
114 |
112 |
|
Louth |
27 |
28 |
65 |
62 |
65 |
68 |
|
Mayo |
1,228 |
1,492 |
1,570 |
1,593 |
1,647 |
1,605 |
|
Meath |
57 |
58 |
62 |
58 |
60 |
56 |
|
Monaghan |
339 |
378 |
401 |
404 |
408 |
416 |
|
Offaly |
68 |
65 |
76 |
81 |
83 |
85 |
|
Roscommon |
341 |
342 |
351 |
338 |
348 |
322 |
|
Sligo |
243 |
281 |
313 |
341 |
366 |
352 |
|
Tipperary |
170 |
179 |
207 |
231 |
226 |
221 |
|
Waterford |
33 |
37 |
43 |
42 |
49 |
46 |
|
Westmeath |
75 |
85 |
88 |
96 |
89 |
88 |
|
Wexford |
109 |
118 |
130 |
147 |
175 |
174 |
|
Wicklow |
40 |
37 |
35 |
45 |
52 |
56 |
Expenditure per year was as follows: 1999 —€19.861 million; 2000 —€41.425 million; 2001 —€50,650 million; 2002 —€58.571 million; 2003 —€62.806 million.
90 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will increase the income eligibility limits for the retention of secondary benefits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28226/04]
Social welfare programmes aim to be responsive to the needs of those who depend on them while simultaneously providing opportunities to assist people to become more independent. A number of measures have been introduced in recent years to remove disincentives to taking up employment and to ease the transition from welfare to work. These measures include means disregards and tapered withdrawal of benefits as earnings increase, employment support schemes such as the back to work programme and support from facilitators from my Department's staff to assist with the transition to employment.
The income limit referred to by the Deputy applies to people who take up employment under approved employment schemes. Such people are entitled to retain certain social welfare and other benefits, known as secondary benefits, in total or in part for the duration of the scheme subject to certain conditions. For most people the most significant secondary benefit is rent or mortgage interest supplement which is paid under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.
An income limit of €317.43 per week applies to these supplements. While this income limit has not changed since its introduction, significant other improvements have been made to the means test. Back to work allowance and family income supplement, in cases where one or both of these are in payment, are now disregarded in the assessment of the €317.43 weekly income limit. PRSI and reasonable travelling expenses are also disregarded in the means test.
In effect, this means that people who had been unemployed and who commence employment through the back to work scheme can have a weekly household income significantly in excess of the €317.43 limit in question and still qualify to retain 75% of their rent or mortgage interest supplement. In the first year on the back to work allowance, for example, a single person can have combined income from the back to work allowance and wages of €418.50 while a couple with two children can have an income of €510.75. Other improvements have also been made to the retention arrangements. The period for which rent or mortgage interest supplement may be retained has been extended to four years on a tapered basis, that is, 75% in year one, 50% in year two and 25% in years three and four. In addition, the maximum payment limit of €317.43 per month on the amount of supplement payable was abolished for people on approved schemes.
As a consequence of these improvements many families retain more of their rent or mortgage interest supplement than had been the case prior to these changes taking place. In addition, a person availing of an employment support scheme may opt to be assessed under either standard rules or under the special retention rules and will be entitled to receive payment under the more favourable option.
I consider that the secondary benefit income eligibility thresholds and disregards allow significant and realistic retention of these entitlements and are not acting as a disincentive to people to take up back to work opportunities. Any further changes to these arrangements would have to be considered in the light of other priorities and of the budget resources available.
91 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on a finding by the Combat Poverty Agency that relative income poverty has increased dramatically since 1994; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28199/04]
194 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the recent findings which show that welfare recipients are at a very high risk of poverty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28453/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 91 and 194 together.
Ireland has over the past decade achieved an unprecedented level of economic growth. This has resulted in major improvements in average incomes resulting from increased employment; better paid jobs; more two income households resulting from a significant increase in female participation in the workforce; and lower tax levels in exchange for moderate wage increases to maintain economic competitiveness. A major outcome is that average income almost doubled over the same period from €83 in 1994 to €164 in 2001. Another major outcome is that over the period 1994 to 2001, the numbers in basic or consistent poverty reduced by almost two thirds from 15.1% in 1994 to 5.2% in 2001.
The consistent poverty indicator, developed by the ESRI, measures the percentage of persons below 60% of average income, who are also deprived of goods and services regarded as essential for living in Ireland today, as measured by deprivation indicators. Paradoxically, however, during the same period the percentage classified under an EU indicator as being at risk of poverty rose from 15.6% in 1994 to 21.9% in 2001. That indicator measures the percentage of persons below a relative income threshold of 60% of median income. The increase in the proportion at risk of poverty has arisen mainly from the almost doubling of average incomes during this period. Substantial increases in social welfare payments, which have amounted to 27% in real terms over a more recent period, 1997 to 2004, did not keep pace with the unprecedented increases in incomes generally.
However, it is important to point out that not all those below the 60% income threshold are in poverty, as that depends on other factors such as the extent to which their income is below the threshold, the length of time they have been living on a low income, the degree to which their assets will have run down while on a low income and the other resources they have at their disposal. In the case of Ireland, for example, the indicator does not reflect the high level of home ownership, especially among the elderly, and consequently the value to households of owning their own home. It also does not reflect access to household allowances in kind such as electricity, fuel, telephone rental and TV licence.
It is for those reasons that the consistent poverty indicator is a more reliable guide to those who are most deprived and in need of extra support. The over-riding objective of the national anti-poverty strategy, NAPS, is to reduce the number of persons who are in consistent poverty to 2% by 2007 and, if possible, to eliminate consistent poverty entirely. The Government is committed to implementing the measures in the NAPs designed to meet that objective. Improved income supports form a key component of these efforts. The Government, for example, has committed to increasing old age pensions to €200 per week and to making progress towards achieving the target level of €150, in 2002 terms, for the lowest rates of social welfare payments by 2007.
The at risk of poverty indicator also identifies those vulnerable to falling below general living standards. These include families with children relying on low incomes or on social welfare payments long term. A key element of the strategy is to further improve employment participation, create better jobs and target more resources at those who cannot work, such as pensioners for whom there is a commitment to provide higher weekly payments.
Poverty is a multi-dimensional problem, requiring actions across a wide range of policy areas if it is to be tackled decisively. In addition to income supports, the national anti-poverty strategy sets ambitious targets across a range of other policy areas, including employment, health, education, housing and accommodation, all of which impact on poverty and social exclusion. The strategy also addresses the needs of certain groups within society who are particularly vulnerable to poverty and social exclusion. These groups include women, children and young people, older people, people with disabilities, Travellers, prisoners and ex-prisoners.
It is important to emphasise also that economic sustainability is an essential feature of the Government's anti-poverty strategy, as it delivers high employment and high employment participation. It will be important to maintain the balance which has been developed between achieving the key economic and social objectives, having regard to our current stage of economic development, and the need to maintain economic competitiveness.
92 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his Department has been in discussions with Sustainable Energy Ireland with a view to carrying out fuel poverty action research; the stage that research has reached in view of the commitment to have the research completed in the second quarter of 2004. [28117/04]
My Department is in discussion with Sustainable Energy Ireland and with the Combat Poverty Agency with a view to carrying out an energy needs assessment project. Other agencies such as the Department of Health and Children, the Health Institute and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government will also be involved.
It is proposed to carry out an action research project in designated geographical areas where eligible persons will have an energy audit carried out in their homes. The energy audit will include energy advice to the household as well as minor remedial work, such as the installation of roof space insulation, draft proofing, fitting of hot water cylinder lagging jackets and energy efficient light bulbs.
The project will evaluate the effects of the measures undertaken from the point of view of comfort levels, health effects as well as changes in fuel costs and carbon dioxide emissions. The project is due to commence early in 2005 and will take some time to complete, as it will involve monitoring the effect of individual remedial works carried out as part of the project. This action research is not intended to measure the extent to which fuel poverty exists nationally but it may give some indications in that regard.
My Department provides financial supports to assist householders who are in receipt of long-term social welfare or health board payments and who are unable to provide fully for their own heating needs. A fuel allowance payment of €9 per week is paid to eligible households with an additional €3.90 per week being paid in designated urban smokeless fuel zones, bringing the total amount in those areas to €12.90 per week. These payments are made for the duration of the fuel season which lasts for 29 weeks from the end of September to mid-April. The fuel allowances represent a contribution towards a person's normal heating expenses.
Many households also qualify for electricity and gas allowances through the household benefits package. Expenditure by my Department on fuel, electricity and gas allowances for social welfare clients is expected to be some €175 million this year. The extent to which people on social welfare can afford fuel is kept under review in my Department. The objective of social welfare provision in this regard is to ensure that the combined value of weekly social welfare payments and fuel allowances rises in real terms, after compensating people for inflation, including fuel price inflation. In this regard, the significant increases in recent years in primary social welfare payment rates have improved the income situation for these groups in real terms relative to cost increases.
93 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the effect that the Chen judgment of the European Court of Justice will have on his Department. [28169/04]
The judgment of the European Court of Justice in the Chen case, which was given on 19 October 2004, stated that the non-national parents of an Irish born child had the right to live in any other EU state provided they were covered by health insurance and had sufficient resources to avoid becoming a burden on the public finances of the host state. The judgment does not, therefore, confer rights on people who would qualify for social assistance from my Department.
Since 1 May 2004, applicants for certain social welfare schemes and child benefit are subject to the habitual residence condition. The basis for the restriction contained in the new rules is the applicant's habitual residence. The restriction is not based on citizenship, nationality, immigration status or any other factor. The question of what is a person's habitual residence is decided in accordance with European Court of Justice case law, which sets out the grounds for assessing individual claims.
The habitual residence condition is being operated to ensure that the social welfare system is no longer open to everyone who is newly arrived in Ireland, while at the same time ensuring that people whose cases are appropriate to the Irish social welfare system get access to social assistance when they need it. Each case received for a determination on the habitual residence condition is dealt with in its own right and a decision is based on application of the guidelines to the particular individual circumstances of each case. These decisions, however, have to be compatible with EU law and other international and national legal obligations and it is not possible to discriminate in favour of any particular group or nationality.
Any applicant who disagrees with the decision of a deciding officer has the right to appeal to the social welfare appeals office. Should a person find him or herself in an exceptional situation without funds, the community welfare officers may provide a once-off exceptional needs payment under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.
The habitual residence condition is a major new development in the Irish social welfare system. Now that it has been in place for over six months, a review of its efficiency and effectiveness is being carried out by my officials and I will consider any further measures which may be required in the light of the review.
94 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the way in which he has co-ordinated with other Departments and agencies in the development of a strong infrastructure of rights and entitlements in the context of the NAPS; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28143/04]
The office for social inclusion in my Department is responsible for co-ordinating and overseeing the implementation of the national anti-poverty strategy, NAPS. The revised NAPS, Building an Inclusive Society, 2002, contains a commitment to move towards a more formal expression of entitlements across the range of public services and to set standards and guidelines regarding the standard of service delivery which can be expected by the customer.
The Department of the Taoiseach has led developments on this issue. The customer charter initiative, launched by the Taoiseach in December 2002, requires Departments and offices to formalise their commitments to service provision and delivery by describing in a public charter the level of service a customer can expect from a Department or office. This initiative on service standards, by assisting the development of formal expressions of entitlements across a range of public services, recognises that citizenship rights encompass not only the core civil and political rights and obligations but also social, economic and cultural rights and obligations.
As a support to Departments and offices in preparing their charters, the Government approved a detailed set of guidelines in September 2003 that provide a framework for Departments and offices in preparing and reporting on their charters. Charters are based around a four step cycle of consultation, commitment, evaluation and reporting. The guidelines recommend that, in their consultation phase, Departments and offices should consult with all customer groups, including "representatives of groups experiencing, or vulnerable to, poverty and social exclusion as identified by the national anti-poverty strategy and to those covered by equality legislation — gender, marital status, family status, age, disability, sexual orientation, race, religion and membership of the Traveller Community".
As of October 2004, 19 customer charters have been published and the remainder will be published before the end of this year. Departments and offices will report on the implementation of the service standards included in their charters in their 2004 annual reports. The office for social inclusion will continue to co-operate with all relevant Departments in monitoring progress. The first annual report of the office is currently being finalised and will contain an account of progress during the first year of the plan under a number of different policy headings, including access to resources, rights goods and services.
95 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the measures he intends to put in place to ensure the poverty proofing of all Government policies. [28177/04]
Poverty is a key concern of this Government and its substantial reduction and eventual elimination is the major objective of the national anti-poverty strategy. The causes of poverty are multi-faceted and require a multi-policy response across virtually all areas of Government.
Implementation of the Government's anti-poverty strategy requires that Departments take into account the possible implications for poverty when developing or revising policies or legislation. This is especially important for policies that do not have an explicit poverty aspect. Departments are obliged to "poverty proof" their policies and must ensure that major policy proposals indicate clearly their impact on groups in poverty or at risk of falling into poverty.
Poverty proofing is an important tool in helping to achieve the goals contained in the national anti-poverty strategy, NAPS, and the national action plan against poverty and social exclusion. Following the launch of the NAPS in 1997, it was agreed that a system of proofing policies for their impact on poverty be developed. In 1999, my Department introduced proofing guidelines for use by Departments and State agencies. The National Economic and Social Council carried out a comprehensive review of the poverty proofing process in late 2001 and an undertaking was given in the revised national anti-poverty strategy in 2002 to develop a more effective proofing process, taking into account the findings and recommendations of the NESC.
An evaluation of the second national action plan against poverty and social exclusion, which incorporates the commitments in the revised national anti-poverty strategy, is due to be completed by June of next year for submission to the EU. This will be based on the annual report on implementation of the first year of the plan which is due to be published shortly. It is considered appropriate to initiate the review of the proofing process in the context of this evaluation, which will commence from the beginning of next year.
97 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will reverse all of the social welfare budgetary cuts introduced in the past 12 months by his predecessor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28132/04]
106 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons affected by each of the social welfare cutbacks announced in the Book of Estimates in 2003; the number who were receiving each of the social welfare payments and are not doing so now as a result of the changes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28192/04]
206 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he intends to reverse in full the cuts imposed in social welfare in Budget 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28463/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 97, 106 and 206 together.
The Estimates for the Department of Social and Family Affairs announced last November included a number of provisions to better target resources within the social welfare code. It is not possible to quantify precisely the numbers affected by the measures in question in that where disallowances or reduced entitlements occur, the specific reasons for such are not recorded on payment systems in a way which facilitates production of the information requested.
While data are regularly available on the numbers in receipt of all payments, simple comparisons of such numbers would not reliably indicate the number of persons affected by the measures. The number in receipt of any particular scheme can and does fluctuate for a wide variety of reasons, for example, seasonal factors in the case of unemployment. Furthermore, in many instances, individuals who may have been affected by a particular measure could have availed of alternative support.
My Department is currently reviewing the measures in question. It is expected that this review will be completed in the near future and I will bring forward proposals, if appropriate, in the light of the findings of the review.
98 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the measures he intends to put in place to alleviate the situation in view of the fact that 17% of families living in relative poverty in this country have a parent in full-time employment and that 35% of Irish children who live with relative poverty are members of such families. [28166/04]
The Deputy is no doubt referring to the Combat Poverty Agency's recent pre-budget submission to the Government which refers to children of families in low paid employment who are deemed to be at risk of poverty as their income falls below the 60% relative income threshold, that is, 60% of median or average income.
Tackling child poverty has been, and continues to be, one of the key priorities of this Government. The problem of child poverty is a multi-faceted one which requires a multi-faceted response through strategies such as the revised national anti-poverty strategy, the national children's strategy and, more recently, the national action plan against poverty and social exclusion. Through these strategies, the Government has committed to specific and measurable targets aimed at achieving greater equality for all in terms of access to an adequate income, appropriate education, health and housing, thereby seeking to break the cycle of disadvantage and exclusion experienced by certain children in society.
The Government recognises the importance of supporting and protecting families and children and is fully committed to achieving the NAPS target of reducing the number of children who are consistently poor to below 2% by 2007 and, if possible, to eliminate consistent poverty amongst children by then. Significant progress has already been made towards achieving this target. The number of children who are consistently poor, for example, has more than halved in the four year period 1997 to 2001, falling from 15.3% in 1997 to 6.5% in 2001.
One of the key factors underpinning this reduction in child poverty is the reduction in the numbers of parents who are unemployed. Our aim is to continue to maintain high levels of employment and to remove obstacles to taking up employment, especially in the case of lone parents and parents with large families. The work/no work divide is a key factor in child poverty risks. In 2000, for example, the risk of poverty for a child being reared by a lone parent reduced almost five fold when that parent took up employment. Similarly, the risk for children in two parent families reduced from over 33% to less than 10% when one parent started work, and further reduced to 1.2% when the second parent was also in employment.
Securing employment, therefore, is still the surest route out of poverty and this Government has presided over unprecedented reductions in unemployment and significant increases in employment levels. The level of unemployment has been reduced to 4.6%, from 11.9% in 1996, and long-term unemployment has now been reduced to 1.4%. A combination of strong economic performance, labour market interventions, income supports and tax reform have ensured that the downward trend has been constant. In addition to this, the Government has sought to ensure that increases in social welfare payments made progress towards its target of €150 per week in 2002 terms by 2007. The future direction of social welfare rates generally is a matter which is under continuing consideration within my Department.
The elimination of poverty in any society can only occur through tackling its causes, in particular the provision of employment. This Government has worked throughout its term to tackle the root causes of poverty across various themes, including income adequacy, educational disadvantage, unemployment, rural poverty and urban disadvantage, and, while we are already seeing reductions in consistent poverty, its eventual elimination is something for which we, as a society, need to strive. The groundwork for this is now taking place.
This approach is reflected in the investment which has been made in child benefit, an employment neutral payment which offers an effective means of channelling income support to low income families to tackle child poverty. Payments now amount to €131.60 for the first and second children and €165.30 for third and subsequent children.
Family income supplement also provides cash support by way of weekly payments to families, including lone parent families, at work on low pay. Improvements to the scheme, including the assessment of entitlements on the basis of net rather than gross income and the progressive increases in the income limits, have made it easier for lower income households to qualify under the scheme. For instance, the budget 2004 increases raised the weekly income qualification thresholds by €28 at each point, adding an extra €16.80 to the payments of most existing FIS recipients. In addition, the minimum weekly FIS payment was increased by €7, from €13 to €20. The number of persons in receipt of family income supplement at the end of October 2004 was 14,303, with an average weekly payment of €74.16. In the 2004 estimates, €56 million has been allocated for this scheme.
The importance of tackling child poverty is reflected in the fact that Ending Child Poverty was identified as one of ten special initiatives being undertaken under Sustaining Progress. Under this initiative, key policy issues are being addressed, including child income support arrangements. The work being undertaken under the special initiative will, I believe, further enhance our capacity to tackle the issue of child poverty. Further improvements to child income support arrangements will be considered in a budgetary context.
99 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will report on the recent changes in arrangements that end signing on by social welfare recipients at local Garda stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28224/04]
Currently, recipients of unemployment payments who reside more than six miles from their nearest social welfare local or branch office sign a declaration at their local Garda station for the purpose of proving unemployment. This service was instituted as a service to customers at a time when transport was less frequent and travel was more difficult than today.
My Department is currently implementing a modernisation action plan aimed at improving customer service and at enhancing control. In this context, the role of signing at Garda stations has been reviewed and it has been concluded that the service has long since ceased to be appropriate in providing customer service. The new signing arrangements, which balance customer service requirements with effective control measures, will be introduced in two phases. At the end of November 2004, all customers who currently sign on at Garda stations will self-certify and return their signing docket directly to the social welfare local-branch office.
In the early part of 2005 the following revised signing arrangements will apply. Customers residing up to ten miles or 16 km from their social welfare local-branch office will attend that office once every four weeks for certification purposes. Customers residing over ten miles from their local-branch office will self certify every four weeks and attend that office every 12 weeks. These customers will be offered the flexibility to attend at the office on any day in a designated week. A flexible approach to certification will be adopted for customers on offshore islands and other remote areas of the country and they will not, as a general rule, be required to attend the local-branch office.
These changes represent a significant improvement in customer service by enabling all unemployed customers have direct contact with their social welfare local-branch office where they can be directed to the many educational and work supports available to the unemployed.
100 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the nature of his Department’s campaign to alert pensioners to their entitlements; his views on the fact that thousands of over 65 year olds are failing to apply for their old age pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28220/04]
The purpose of the advertising campaign referred to by the Deputy is to alert people coming up to pension age that they should apply for their pension at least three months before they reach pension age. Delays in the payment of old age pensions arising from late applications have been an ongoing issue for my Department for some time and I am keen to get the message across that early applications helps both the pensioner and my Department. There is no evidence to support the Deputy's contention that large numbers are failing to apply for their pension entitlements but I am determined to ensure that people are aware of their entitlements and the necessity to apply on time so that they can be paid their pension in a timely fashion.
My Department takes a proactive approach in advertising our range of pension schemes. Staff in my Department participate at public events, such as the "Over 50s Exhibition" in the RDS, promoting all social welfare pensions and advising people on their entitlements. In addition, staff visit many organisations, such as employer groups, pre-retirement seminars and courses, and voluntary and community organisations, and provide presentations on social welfare pension entitlements.
My Department produces a comprehensive range of information leaflets and booklets covering each social welfare payment or scheme. These information leaflets are available in a wide range of outlets countrywide, including all social welfare local offices, citizen's information centres, post offices and in a wide range of other organisations such as local community centres. My Department works closely with all relevant voluntary organisations engaged in information provision, a number of which receive funding on an annual basis towards the cost of disseminating information to their target groups.
New schemes, changes and improvements to existing schemes and services are advertised, using an appropriate mix of national and provincial media, fact sheets, posters and from time to time direct mailshots. Selective use is also made of freephone services to provide information and advice on the introduction of new schemes or, for example, at budget time. We have also recently introduced a LoCall leaflet line where the public can obtain an information leaflet on any social welfare scheme or service. This initiative has been particularly successful and we are now receiving over 300 calls per day on this channel.
The central information services unit in my Department operates a telephone information service for the public and there is an information officer in each of the social welfare local offices around the country. The public can also access information on social welfare pensions and services through the Department's website www.welfare.ie.
Comhairle, the statutory agency responsible for the provision of independent information, advice and advocacy services for all citizens throughout the country, comes within the remit of my Department. Comhairle currently supports some 85 independent citizen's information centres which are locally based and provide information on a wide range of social services, including pensions. Comhairle also operates the citizen's information phone service and manages the information website OASIS.gov.ie which is a source of information on a wide range of social services. It also produces an information booklet “Entitlements for the Over 60s” on an annual basis.
101 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the arrangements in place for recovering maintenance from spouses and unmarried partners of people on one-parent family payments to contribute to the cost of those payments; his future plans for these arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28158/04]
Applicants for one-parent family payment are required to make ongoing efforts to seek adequate maintenance from their former spouses, or, in the case of unmarried applicants, the other parent of their child. Normally, such maintenance is obtained by way of negotiation or by court order, though separated couples are increasingly using my Department's Family Mediation Service which is being progressively extended countrywide. Since 2001, one-parent family payment claimants are allowed to retain 50% of any maintenance received without reduction in their social welfare entitlements, as a further incentive to seek support themselves.
Where social welfare support is being provided to a one-parent family, the other parent is legally liable to contribute to the cost of this payment. In every case where a one-parent family payment is awarded, the maintenance recovery unit of my Department seeks to trace the liable relative involved in order to ascertain whether s/he is in a financial position to contribute towards the cost of one-parent family payment. This follow up activity takes place within two to three weeks of award of payment.
All liable relatives assessed with maintenance liability are notified by the Department and issued with a determination order setting out the amount of contribution assessed. The amount assessed can be reviewed where there is new information about, or changes in, the financial or household circumstances of a liable relative. The Department requires regular, normally weekly, payment of the contributions assessed in this way.
There are currently 1,779 liable relatives contributing directly to my Department. As a result of maintenance recovery unit activity, savings of €8.5 million were achieved in 2002 and €14.2 million in 2003. Savings for 2004 are estimated at €14.9 million. These savings are composed of direct cash payments by the liable relative to the Department and of scheme savings. Savings on scheme expenditure arise where maintenance recovery activity leads to the liable relative beginning to pay maintenance in respect of a spouse and/or children and the consequent reduction or termination of a one-parent family payment. In 2004 to date, a total of 509 one-parent family payments were cancelled while a further 303 payments were reduced as a result of maintenance recovery activity.
In implementing maintenance recovery provisions to date the Department has concentrated on those cases where the liable relatives concerned, being in employment or self-employment, would be in a better financial position to make a contribution towards the relevant benefit or allowance being paid by the Department to their families.
Legislation allows the Department to seek recovery from liable relatives through the courts in appropriate cases. A total of 152 cases have been submitted for court action from 2001 to date. The majority of these cases have resulted in either orders being written against the liable relative in court or alternatively in the liable relative agreeing to pay a contribution to either the Department or the lone parent. Further cases are in the course of preparation by the Department for court action.
102 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on the call from 42 voluntary organisations to reverse cuts in the rent supplement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28190/04]
107 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to recent remarks by a person (details supplied) who has criticised the restrictions placed on the rent supplement; his views on those remarks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28194/04]
120 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the fact that following changes in the rent supplement scheme in 2003 many women in domestic violence situations are having difficulty withdrawing from such situations due to the new rent restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28222/04]
131 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will give an updated report into any new arrangements being introduced whereby local authorities will be assigned responsibility for meeting long-term housing needs of some 19,000 households dependent on rent supplement for 18 months or longer. [28113/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 102, 107, 120 and 131 together.
Rent supplements are provided through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered by the health boards on behalf of my Department. A growing number of people have come to rely on rent supplements on a long-term basis over the years. However, people with a long-term housing need require a long-term social housing solution, not a social welfare payment in lieu. The new arrangements announced by the Government in July mean that local authorities will progressively assume responsibility for meeting these long-term housing needs, including those of people dependent on rent supplement for 18 months or longer. The rent supplement scheme will continue to provide short-term income support.
The housing authorities will be able to make better use of funding that is currently channelled through the social welfare system and I consider that the new arrangements provide the best solution for disadvantaged people with ongoing housing needs. The necessary funding is being transferred from the social welfare Vote to the housing authorities from January 2005 to cover both the cost of the new system and the cost of administering it. The new system will be implemented initially in seven local authorities and my Department is assisting in this process. It is intended that the system will be commenced in all local authority areas by the end of 2005 and will be fully operational in all areas by 2008.
The changes introduced in the rent supplement scheme earlier this year will also assist by re-focusing the scheme on its original objective of providing short-term maintenance support rather than long-term housing solutions. The likely impact of the measures was assessed in advance and the manner of their implementation was carefully designed to ensure that the interests of vulnerable groups were protected. There are no circumstances in which women in domestic violence situations have to remain in such situations due to these changes. All applicants for rent supplement who have been assessed by a local authority as being in need of housing, receive rent supplement immediately, regardless of how long they have been renting in the private sector or even if they never rented before. Nobody who needs rent supplement is refused if they have a housing need.
If an applicant for rent supplement has not had their housing need assessed by a local authority, they are not excluded from receiving rent supplement on that account. They will be advised, however, by the community welfare officer to have their needs assessed by the authority first. If the local authority considers that they have a housing need and the authority cannot immediately meet that housing need, then rent supplement is payable.
Furthermore, the health boards have discretion to award rent supplement in any cases where they feel it is appropriate to do so. The instructions issued to health boards on implementing the new arrangements earlier this year state that the new arrangements do not restrict the discretion given to them to award a supplement in any case where it appears to the board that the circumstances of the case so warrant. The principal criteria upon which such a determination might be made include the safety and well-bring of the applicant or a situation where an applicant is being made homeless or forced to use homeless facilities unless rent supplement is paid. Such cases could include people who find themselves caught up in violent domestic situations who have to move accommodation because of fears for their safety or well being.
My Department is actively monitoring the impact of the measures. A working group was established earlier this year under the Sustaining Progress agreement to enable the social partners to assess the impact of the changes to the rent supplement scheme. The working group concluded that the new measures were not having any significant adverse impacts, having regard to the design of the measures.
I am aware that a range of voluntary organisations have been critical of aspects of the changes in the rent supplement scheme. However, more than 31,000 rent supplements have been awarded since the measures came into effect at the end of January this year. I have instructed my Department to conduct a review of the measures and I expect that it will be concluded soon.
103 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if contact has been made with the Department of Finance on the income redistribution benefit of refundable tax credits; and if he would be prepared to lobby for such a measure as an assist to other social welfare measures. [28172/04]
The social welfare system plays a key role in the final distribution of disposable incomes and in particular on the ability of many low income individuals and families to participate in society. Previous analysis of the social welfare system shows that it is highly effective in the role of strengthening the income position of those at the bottom of the income distribution.
Some commentators argue that the redistribution objectives of both the tax and the social welfare systems could be enhanced through closer co-ordination between the two systems, particularly in the form of refundable tax credits. Refundable tax credits allow families with incomes below the tax threshold receive a cash benefit or refund of any unused portion of a tax credit. Policy on income taxes is primarily a matter for the Minister for Finance and I understand he has indicated that he has no plans to introduce refundable tax credits at the present time. I also understand that initial estimates of the cost of making all unused personal tax credits refundable would be in the region of €1.6 billion annually.
In the circumstances, my priority objective is to secure sufficient resources to meet the objectives contained in the programme for Government relating to social welfare and to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the social welfare system in addressing issues of poverty and social inclusion. The introduction of a refundable tax credit and its potential role in the tax and social welfare systems was examined by a working group established under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. The working group comprised representatives of the social partners and relevant Government Departments. I understand its report is currently being finalised and I await it with interest.
105 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the resources which have been provided to the respective non-governmental organisations which work to combat poverty and social exclusion in the State for 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28122/04]
113 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the moneys which have been allocated and which have been spent in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004 by his Department in working closely with the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in supporting local community and anti-poverty activities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28141/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 105 and 113 together.
In addition to requiring relevant figures for core Department spending and Estimates, compilation of the information for the Deputy requires an analysis of payments and estimates for 2002-2004 by relevant agencies under the aegis of my Department. The detailed information requested is currently being compiled and will issue to the Deputies, as separate replies from my Department and relevant agencies, in the near future.
109 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the projects undertaken with the International Initiative for Children, Youth and Families; the amount available and the amount spent in each of these projects in 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28157/04]
The International Initiative for Children, Youth and Families is an international network of policymakers, managers, practitioners and researchers involved in promoting effective policies and services for children, youth and families. The initiative was set up in 1992 with initial funding from the Netherlands Government. It is essentially a networking organisation.
Ireland has been involved with the initiative since 2001. Its objectives are to locate and share information about the best family centred programmes and policies from different countries and to develop and disseminate knowledge about what works to help strengthen communities so that they in turn can support families. The current theme of interest to the initiative relates to community engagement in achieving better results for children and families. Arising from the contacts made through the international initiative a residents exchange programme was set up involving Portsmouth in the UK, Groningen in Holland and Waterford.
The purpose of the exchange was to develop best practice for residents involvement in changes affecting their communities. The process consisted of workshops and visits hosted by each of the cities involved. During 2002, residents from disadvantaged areas of Waterford city, along with representatives of Waterford City Council, RAPID, the Garda, the South Eastern Health Board and this Department visited Groningen. The visit sought to advance thinking on best practice in engaging residents, particularly in the RAPID programme which was getting underway in Waterford at the time. The total cost of the exchange visit was €8,827 approximately.
My Department and the Family Support Agency was also represented at an international expert seminar in Windsor sponsored by the UK Government on the theme of "effective policies to support strong communities and better results for children and families". In early 2004, training on working for better results for children, families and communities — one of the strands of work promoted by the international initiative — was run in Waterford and Clonmel in conjunction with the Waterford city and county development boards and South Tipperary County Development Board.
The training was attended by about 100 people from a variety of State agencies and community groups. Its aim was to promote a method of working which would ensure the achievement of better results for children, families and communities. The total cost of the training was approximately €8,000 to which my Department contributed some €4,500. In May 2004, following an invitation from the international initiative, the board of the Family Support Agency nominated its chief executive officer to join the board of the initiative.
Representatives from the Family Support Agency and the National Children's Office, NCO, together with two young people chosen by the NCO attended a study tour and seminar organised by the international initiative in Boston and Washington respectively from 1 to 5 November 2004. The theme of the study tour and seminar was "Involving Youth in Changing Their Communities".
110 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the plans he has to extend the free travel scheme to an all-Ireland travel pass; the number of persons this would effect and the estimated costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28181/04]
Under the existing free travel scheme, pass holders who reside in the Republic of Ireland can travel free within the South. Similarly, people who live in Northern Ireland who hold a concessionary travel pass can travel free within the North. Under special cross-Border arrangements that have been in place since 1995, both southern and northern pass holders can undertake cross-Border journeys free of charge.
The introduction of free travel on an all-Ireland basis would enhance these existing arrangements by enabling southern pass holders to make free onward journeys within the North. Similarly, Northern Ireland pass holders would be able to make internal journeys within the South free of charge to them. There is considerable take up by passholders — North and South — of the existing cross-Border free travel service. Some 200,000 passenger journeys are made by passholders each year under the scheme, about half and half from each jurisdiction. An enhanced All-Ireland free travel service would bring a useful additional flexibility to the service and should help encourage even more extensive take up by passholders on both sides of the Border.
The current annual cost to my Department of providing cross-Border free travel is €2.7 million. It is difficult to estimate the cost of an all-Ireland free travel scheme in advance of its introduction. However, experience to date with the current cross-Border scheme would suggest that the additional transport reimbursement cost of introducing this measure would be of the order of €3 million per annum.
There are a number of technical and financial issues to be resolved to implement an enhanced all-Ireland free travel system. These issues will require co-operation between my Department and the Northern Ireland Department with responsibility for transport policy, as well as the relevant northern and southern transport operator companies. In September 2004, my predecessor met with the Minister of State at the Department for Regional Development in Northern Ireland, to explore the potential for further co-operation between the two Departments on the proposal. They discussed the options and scope for co-funding the scheme and considered various technical issues that arise.
Shortly after taking up this post, I wrote to the Minister, Mr. John Spellar, indicating my wish to move the issue forward. Contacts between the two Departments are being maintained and work is ongoing at official level on developing proposals for an all-Ireland free travel scheme.
111 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the work he has undertaken with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, health boards and other agencies since June 2002 to ensure that his Department’s services are provided in a manner that is appropriate to the needs of Travellers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28127/04]
A high level group on Travellers issues was set up by the Cabinet committee on social inclusion and consists of senior officials from a number of Government Departments and agencies. My Department is represented on the group. The aim of the group is to develop approaches to improve service delivery to Travellers, in particular through inter-agency co-operation. The high level group provides a forum in which agencies can address issues and share experiences in providing services to Travellers.
The primary focus of the group is to address the issue of Travellers on the roadside and to explore what can be done to address their needs in the short, medium and long term. The issue of accommodation for Travellers is a key issue. Travellers are at significant risk of social exclusion and suffer high levels of poverty. Most Travellers are in receipt of income support from my Department through unemployment assistance or payment for one parent families.
Proof of residency is a requirement for the processing of a claim under the social welfare code and it is necessary to validate the information provided by our customers. For many members of the Traveller community there are particular difficulties in establishing the facts necessary to decide on claims. My officials co-operate on an ongoing basis with the local authorities about the issues around residency of individual Travellers. My officials also work closely with other service providers, such as the housing sections of local authorities and the Traveller units in health boards. This co-operation aims to establish facts quickly and so speed up the necessary processing of claims and ensure payment is made as quickly as possible to those entitled to receive it.
The high level group is currently looking at a number of initiatives by local authorities aimed at overcoming the barriers to the provision of adequate accommodation to members of the Traveller community. These initiatives require a multi-agency approach and my Department is playing its role in identifying the data that can lead to the targeting of resources to those in greatest need. Solving the accommodation issue for Travellers will contribute to tackling the issues which arise under the social inclusion agenda. It will also help in improving the delivery of a proper service to these customers, particularly in the area of claim processing.
114 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will extend the free travel scheme to persons in receipt of an Irish pension but who live in the UK on a permanent basis to allow them free travel whilst holidaying at home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28201/04]
The free travel scheme is available to all people aged 66 years or over who are permanently residing in the State. It is also available to carers and to people with disabilities who are in receipt of certain social welfare payments. It applies to travel within the State and cross-Border journeys between here and Northern Ireland.
The primary objective of the free travel scheme is to encourage older people and people with disabilities to remain independent and active within the community, thereby reducing the need for institutional care. Extending the scheme to visitors would not be in keeping with the objective of the free travel scheme. Any extensions to the free travel scheme could only be considered in a budgetary context and taking account of the objectives of the scheme and the needs of those not covered by the existing arrangements.
115 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons who came into his Department by way of open recruitment, transfer from other Departments or offices and return from career breaks or secondments in 2002, 2003 and 2004; the number who left his Department in 2002, 2003 and 2004; the effect that staff turnover has on services provided by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28128/04]
The information requested for the years 2002, 2003 and 2004 — January to September — is outlined in the table below. My Department is committed to delivering a quality customer service to all our customers and also to ensuring the continuous improvement in the service we provide. The Department's statement of strategy, customer action plan and human resources strategy provide a specific focus on customer service development and recognise that effective training of staff is vital to deliver quality customer service. My Department has in place a wide variety of staff training programmes to address, inter alia, staff turnover issues.
|
Category |
2002 (Jan to Sept) |
2003 (Jan to Sept) |
2004 (Jan to Sept) |
|
Open recruitment |
129 |
65 |
91 |
|
Transfer from other Depts. |
111 |
37 |
42 |
|
Return from career break/secondment |
29 |
34 |
37 |
|
Left the Department |
223 |
199 |
159 |
116 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the contributions that have been made to the Council of Europe forum for children and other international fora relating to family issues since the Government was formed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28154/04]
The Forum for Children and Families was established in April 2001 by the European committee on social cohesion at the Council of Europe to report on issues concerning children and families and their living environment. An official from the family affairs unit of my Department represented Ireland on the forum.
The forum discussed the activities, policies and priorities of international governmental and non-governmental organisations in the field of childhood policies, family affairs, children's rights and social support of children and families. It facilitated an exchange of views on strategies for common action on priority issues, acted as a forum for the exchange of information on best practice and made proposals to the European committee on social cohesion for future work.
During the three years of its existence, the forum debated and achieved progress in important issues such as the establishment of good standards for day care of children, the role of ombudspersons for children, the ban on corporal punishment of children and the protection of the rights of children in residential institutions. In consultation with other Government Departments, my Department contributed to these debates and presented the Irish position on the issues being discussed. The information and analysis arising from these discussions are fully taken into account, as appropriate, in policy development at national level with regard to children and families.
The final meeting of the forum took place in April of this year. At this meeting the forum agreed a declaration on the occasion of this the tenth anniversary of the UN International Year of the Family. It welcomed the plans of the secretary general of the Council of Europe to strengthen the organisation's work on the rights of children and encouraged the Council to continue to actively promote child and family friendly policies in Europe.
Following on from the forum's work and recommendations, a new committee of experts on children and families has now been established by the European committee on social cohesion and it will hold its first meeting 8-9 December 2004. The representative of Ireland on the European committee for social cohesion is one of four country representatives chosen by that committee to represent it on the new committee on children and families. Its terms of reference include to: promote European co-operation and exchanges between member states — 46 such states — on the social aspects of childhood and family policies; make an active contribution to any multi-disciplinary project concerning children which may be launched in the framework of the programme of activities of the Council of Europe; conduct research to identify problems of parenting in Europe, particularly problems facing parents whose children are at risk of social exclusion.
In this respect the committee will evaluate national policies to see to what extent they address these problems. In light of the principles and rights enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the committee will promote best practices of parenting, as well as family policies including, in particular, support systems to parents at varying stages of the child's development.
Officials of my Department have also been directly involved in child and family related issues in other international fora. In February of this year the Irish EU Presidency delegation, including officials of my Department, negotiated on behalf of EU countries a UN resolution on the celebration of the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family and beyond at a meeting of the UN commission on social development. My Department has also contributed in its schemes and services to Ireland's response to the United Nations on compliance with the UN conventions on the rights of the child and on economic, social and cultural rights.
The Irish Presidency in May of this year, with the support of the EU Commission, hosted an international conference entitled, "Families, Change and European Social Policy", to mark the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family. The conference focused on the implications for social policy of demographic, economic, political and social changes affecting families, with particular reference to EU policies in this field. It also provided a forum for exchanges on the latest policy developments. Papers from the conference are available on my Department's website and preparations are underway for a final report to be published shortly.
One of the conference conclusions related to the need for further such exchanges to assist member states in modernising their policies to meet the changing needs of families. A direct outcome is a further international conference on the broad theme of family change and social policy being hosted by Germany for representatives of EU states in December.
Ireland has also participated in an OECD multi-country project on reconciling work and family life, entitled "Babies and Bosses". An analysis of the situation in Ireland in this regard was included in Volume II of the study which is now concluded, with a final volume due for publication shortly. The findings of the study will form the basis for an exchange of views on these subjects at an OECD meeting of Ministers for Social Affairs next April. Full account of all these developments will be taken into account in the strategic process to modernise and strengthen supports for families, the preparation of which is being co-ordinated by my Department for publication early next year.
118 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on the report on socioeconomic conditions in west Tallaght by the Tallaght west childhood development initiative; his views on the high incidence of social disadvantage highlighted therein; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28197/04]
I welcome the study and, like many others, am concerned at its findings. It demonstrates the urgency of the action required to combat poverty, which impacts on our most vulnerable citizens, especially our children.
The study is based on a sample of 187 children drawn from 79 households in Tallaght west. The area differs from the average in this country in the following important respects. The population is much younger than the average, 54% under 25 years, compared to the national average of 37%, while the proportion of children leaving education early is significantly higher than the national average. Almost 7% of the population lives with a disability of whom 14.6% are under 15 years age, compared to an national average of 5.3%. The proportion unemployed, at 10.6%, is more than twice the national average, while a further 4.6% are unable to work. Almost one in three, 32.6%, of households are headed by a lone parent, with just under 24% of lone parent households having a child under 15 years, compared to national averages of 12% and 5.3% respectively. Those living in the area are, therefore, at a higher risk of poverty than the national average.
The national anti-poverty strategy, NAPS, which has been in operation since 1997, is being constantly developed, a process being co-ordinated by the office for social inclusion in my Department. The strategy is designed to meet the type of challenges highlighted by this study, challenges which are cross cutting in nature and which require an integrated approach to dealing with them. A key objective of the strategy is to move towards eliminating child poverty and to have a situation of greater equality for all in terms of access to appropriate education, health and housing, thereby seeking to break the cycle of disadvantage and exclusion experienced by certain children in society.
A report on implementation of the strategy for the period 2003 to 2004 is currently being finalised and will be published shortly. This will provide a basis for an evaluation of the progress made so far in combating poverty and social exclusion and what the priorities should be for further action. The evaluation will take place in consultation with the social partners, the community and voluntary sector and other interested parties, with a view to a report being forwarded to the EU in June next year.
A key priority will be to further develop a more effective regional and locally based approach to combating poverty, within the context of the RAPID programme — revitalising areas by planning, investment and development. This programme, launched in 2001, is designed to improve the quality and delivery of services and facilities in identified areas of urban disadvantage, which includes parts of west Tallaght. The ongoing review of the NAPS will examine how national policies in areas such as income and employment supports, child care, health, and education can be better integrated with locally based services to more effectively combat concentrations of poverty, especially in areas of deprivation. Above all the review will seek to identify priorities for immediate action, given the urgency of significantly improving the well being of the children, whose situation is so well documented in the study.
The findings of studies such as this are being fully taken into account in this process. I have also asked my officials to discuss the study with the authors and to identify other priorities for action.
119 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the definition of long-term unemployed; the number of persons who come under this category; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28144/04]
Twelve months on the live register is the generally accepted definition of long-term unemployment and this is the definition used by this Department for most administrative purposes. Twelve months duration is also used by the Central Statistics Office in the quarterly national household survey. It is also the internationally accepted standard used by the ILO.
The number of people signing on the live register for longer than one year was 44,385 at the end of October 2004. This represents a decrease of 9,657, from the figure of 54,042 in October 2000. The number of persons signing long term on the live register in the period from October 2000 to October 2004 has decreased by 18%. My Department remains committed to assisting those persons who are long-term on the live register to make the transition to employment or to further training and education. Programmes such as the back to work and the back to education allowances assist people in returning to employment.
The employment action plan, which is operated with FÁS, is currently being extended to include everybody who has been on the live register in excess of six months and aged between 18 and 55 years of age. Further movement on this will be considered in the future.
121 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will prioritise the phenomenon of food poverty in his Department; the number of persons who are experiencing food poverty; if, in addressing this issue, he will expand the school meals programme in schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28221/04]
Weekly payments through the various social assistance schemes are intended to provide income to meet the basis living needs of recipients. Supplements are also payable in certain circumstances for specific needs, for example, fuel allowances, rent supplements, living alone allowance for older people or the household benefits package for pensioners, eligible disabled people and carers.
Budgetary increases in these rates of payment each year meet or exceed the rate of increase in the cost of living. This is to ensure that those depending on social welfare experience real improvement in their ability to meet their basis needs. The amount by which rates of payment can be increased generally each year is a key element of budget planning, as is the scope for prioritising support for particular needy groups.
The underlying adequacy of social welfare rates is considered in conjunction with the broader issue of the prevalence and alleviation of poverty in our society. One measure of poverty is consistent poverty which takes into account both the level of income and the level of deprivation of basic items, including adequate meals because of the inability to afford them. While consistent poverty is now at very low levels, some recent studies have focused on aspects such as fuel and food costs in particular. A recent report entitled "Food Poverty and Policy", published by Crosscare, the Combat Poverty Agency and the Society of the St. Vincent de Paul, defined food poverty as "the inability to access a nutritionally adequate diet and the related impact on health, culture and social participation".
Another recent study indicated that particular family groups depending on social welfare unemployment or lone parent support might not have an adequate income to meet their basic needs for a balanced diet and other essential items. It is not clear whether this calculation takes account of other supplementary supports available to families or of the earnings and other disregards available to enable them to supplement their income through employment or training. However, the study indicated that a pensioner couple would have more than sufficient income to meet a low cost but acceptable standard of living. This is an affirmation that the Government's policy of providing particular supports to old age pensioners is having a real effect in improving their standard of living. I aim to continue this process.
For families with schoolgoing children, school meals can make a real and important contribution to ensuring that children receive better nutrition. Such services can also contribute to improved school attendance and quality of learning. My Department provides funding for school meals under two strands, namely the urban school meals scheme and the local projects scheme. The urban school meals scheme operates in conjunction with certain local authorities and is co-funded by my Department. The local projects scheme provides funding to secondary, national, pre-schools and community groups in both urban and rural areas who provide school meals.
In 2003, €3.29 million was spent on the school meals programme. It is estimated that 382 schools, with a total of over 50,650 pupils, benefited from the urban scheme while 347 schools and voluntary organisations received funding which benefited some 26,000 children under local school meals projects. The 2004 provision for this programme is €6.08 million. A review of the urban and Gaeltacht schools meals schemes, which was published in 2003, made a number of recommendations to focus the scheme on areas of greatest disadvantage. This includes targeting secondary schools with the highest concentration of pupils at risk of early school leaving and their primary feeder schools.
My Department is working with the Department of Education and Science to extend the school meals programme. In this regard the Department of Education and Science is using its schools completion programme and Giving Children an Even Break programme to target disadvantaged schools. It is actively promoting the school meals programme through the local schools completion programme co-ordinators. I intend to continue to extend and enhance the scheme as much as possible having regard to other resource priorities.
122 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount paid out by his Department since the pre-1953 pension was introduced in 2000; his views on a miscalculation of the costs of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28202/04]
In May 2000, a special half rate old age contributory pension was introduced to enable people with pre-1953 insurance who could not qualify for a payment under normal qualifying conditions to receive a pension. People already qualifying for pensions at less than half rate could also benefit from the new scheme. In order to be eligible for the payment a person needs 260 paid contributions at the appropriate rate, which can comprise a mixture of pre- and post-1953 contributions.
Based on analysis and previous experience of other special measures it was estimated that some 3,000 persons would qualify for this new pension in 2000 at a full year cost of €8.9 million. The overall claim load was not expected to exceed 5,000 people. By the end of 2000, however, over 11,500 applications had been received, of which 3,545 had been awarded pensions. This high level of interest has continued and by the end of October 2004, a total of 28,410 pre-1953 pensions were awarded. Approximately 67% of these pensions are being paid to residents of the UK and other countries. Up to the end of 2004, the total cost, which includes the budget increases in those payments, is estimated at €459 million.
The reason for the underestimation which occurred in this case was, essentially, that the Department, based on its current databases, did not anticipate the large influx of claims from persons resident abroad. Estimates depend on the data available and in the area of social welfare these are administrative data. By definition, these data are compiled for the administration of the various programmes and frequently, for a variety of reasons, are not that suitable for analysis purposes. It can be very difficult to access and interrogate the data and these difficulties are even more pronounced when dealing with pensions, where records can date from as far back 40 or 50 years ago.
My Department is frequently required to estimate the costs of policy measures and its record in this regard is a good one. This has been recognised by the Department of Finance. The experience in this case was highly unusual and, as I have explained, related to lack of data. However, the Department will take on board the specific lessons of this project in estimating the costs of similar proposals in the future.
123 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on the disappointment expressed by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions on the lack of progress on the special initiative in the Sustaining Progress agreement on tackling the care needs of children, persons with disability and older persons. [28175/04]
The Sustaining Progress agreement contains a special initiative to tackle the care needs of children, people with disabilities and older persons.
The areas under this initiative for which my Department has responsibility are: the publication of a study to examine the future financing of long-term care in Ireland and the establishment of a working group to examine the strategic policy, cost and service delivery issues associated with the care of older people; a commitment to review the contribution being made by the Department's income support system to people reconciling work and family life; the development and promotion of an information remit by the Family Support Agency; the preparation of a national programme focusing specifically on the development of family policy and supports to mark the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family.
Supporting carers in our society has been a priority of the Government since 1997. Over that period weekly payment rates to carers have been greatly increased, qualifying conditions for carer's allowance have been significantly eased, coverage of the scheme has been extended and new schemes such as carer's benefit and the respite care grant have been introduced. The long-term care agenda is a very important aspect of social policy, with major financial and other implications, and I am determined to move this agenda on by developing a framework for the future of long-term care in this country.
Under the Sustaining Progress special care initiative the Government gave a commitment to publish the study to examine the future financing of long-term care in Ireland. There is also a commitment to establish a working group, including relevant interests, to examine the strategic policy, cost and service delivery issues associated with the care of older people. The Study to Examine the Future Financing of Long-term Care in Ireland was launched last year. My Department circulated a consultation document based on this study.
The aim of this document was to focus interested parties on the specific complex issues which are discussed at length in the report. These issues include benefit design, delivery, cost and financing of long-term care into the future. The document was circulated to over 70 interested parties, including Government Departments, health boards, interest groups and the social partners. Many of these organisations and groups have replied to the Department and these responses are currently being examined. The feedback from this process will be the starting point for meeting the commitment in Sustaining Progress to examine the strategic policy, cost and service delivery issues associated with the care of older people.
Government policy has had to evolve to take account of changing family structures in Ireland. Issues such as decreasing birth rates, increasing numbers of lone parents, the introduction of divorce, the ageing of the population, as well as the increased participation of women in the workforce, have all impacted on the development of policies to support families in Ireland. In preparation for the tenth anniversary of the International Year of the Family this year, 2004, a series of public consultation fora on the family took place last year, 2003. The aim was to obtain the views, particularly of family members and other interests, on the impact of social and economic changes on families and on what the priorities of Government should be in the development of family policy and supports in this changing context.
A thematic report of the process, entitled Families and Family Life in Ireland — Challenges for the Future was published in February 2004, together with reports on each individual forum. This thematic report provides an analysis of the outcome of the consultative process at the beginning of this special year.
The Irish EU Presidency organised, with the support of the EU Commission, an international conference in May 2004 in Dublin Castle, entitled "Families, Change and Social Policy in Europe", at which support for the caring responsibilities of families was one of the main themes. My Department also arranged for Ireland's participation in a cross country study by the OECD, entitled Babies and Bosses: Reconciling Work and Family Life. Volume II of the study, launched in November 2003, includes an analysis of the position in Ireland regarding reconciling the family caring role and the demands of work. The full study being finalised at present will provide a clear and comprehensive analysis of the issues and of best practices identified in the countries studied, which will be of great assistance in the further development of policy here in Ireland.
An interdepartmental committee with consultancy assistance has been working since July to draw up an integrated strategy for supporting families designed to modernise existing policies and programmes to meet today's realities for families. Full account will be taken of the outcome of the public consultation, the findings of the Irish Presidency conference and of relevant studies at both national and international levels, and of submissions received from interested parties. The aim is to have the strategy substantially completed by the end of this anniversary year with a view to publication early in 2005. The issue of supports for families with regard to caring will form a major part of the strategy.
Under the Family Support Agency Act 2001, one of the functions of the agency is "to promote and disseminate information about issues in relation to marriage and relationships education, family mediation, parenting and family responsibilities and related matters and in this regard to co-operate with other public authorities in providing information to assist persons in balancing their work and family responsibilities". The strategic plan of the Family Support Agency was launched in May 2004 and includes a strategic priority to promote the Family Support Agency as a key provider of support services and related information for families in Ireland. A total of €20.17 million has been allocated to the agency in 2004 to enable it to carry out the functions assigned to it.
I am satisfied that significant progress has been made on those aspects of the special initiative on the care needs of children, persons with disability and older persons which come within the remit of my Department and I am determined to ensure that it continues in this key policy area.
124 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will respond to proposals from the free legal aid centres for a more ordered approach to indebtedness and to persons in financial difficulty, particularly in the context of their report, An End Based on Means, published in May 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28203/04]
The report, An End Based on Means, is a comprehensive report on an area that has not been examined for some time. The report brings together many of the issues faced by people who are over indebted. It deals with how the legal system treats uncontested consumer debt cases and examines alternatives and proposals for reform. The case is made for a review of debt enforcement procedure to be undertaken by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, which has primary responsibility in this area.
The money advice and budgeting service, MABS, funded by my Department, helps to negotiate voluntary repayment arrangements as an alternative to the legal system. This approach is generally well received by creditors who, in the absence of the MABS, would be more likely to use the legal system to enforce the debt. The free legal advice centres, FLAC, work closely with the MABS and the views of those working in the service were sought for the purpose of this report.
The service now operates nationwide, with 52 services operating from 65 centres throughout the country. It has an emphasis on practical, budget based measures that will assist in removing people permanently from dependence on moneylenders and open up alternative sources of credit through the credit unions. The service gives advice and assistance but does not pay debts. An option offered by the MABS is to arrange for the person to open a special account in their local credit union. This enables them to repay their debts by paying an agreed weekly amount into this account. They also open a shares account which helps to cultivate a savings habit and facilitates borrowing in time of need.
A pilot debt settlement programme was agreed by the MABS and the Irish Bankers' Federation and supported by the other main creditors. This pilot scheme provides a non-judicial alternative for resolving cases of multiple consumer debt that are likely to prove intractable and otherwise end up in court. The scheme introduces a range of innovative features that are new to this jurisdiction, such as a finite period for an agreed debt repayment programme, the freezing/reduction of interest and the write off of residual debt on successful completion of the programme. The debt settlement pilot commenced in four Dublin areas in June 2002 and was extended countrywide in June 2003. It closed for new cases on 30 September and it will be evaluated in the first quarter of 2005.
I believe the money advice and budgeting service offers practical and effective assistance to people with problems of indebtedness. I will take account of the recommendations in this report in considering future development in this area.
125 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has considered the report, Counting our Children — An analysis of Official Data Sources on Children and Childhood in Ireland, which highlights a dearth of knowledge regarding children when it comes to welfare and living standards, particularly poverty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28223/04]
A copy of the report to which the Deputy refers has been received in my Department. It will be fully taken into account in the context of the data strategy being developed by the office for social inclusion. This recognises the importance of having comprehensive, accurate and timely data for monitoring and evaluating progress in achieving the targets in the national anti-poverty strategy and in the national action plan against poverty and social exclusion for 2003 to 2005.
The extent to which children are in poverty and at risk of poverty is, however, reasonably well documented from Living in Ireland surveys. A specific target in the NAPS is to reduce the number of children who are consistently poor to below 2% by 2007 and, if possible, to eliminate consistent poverty among children by then. Children in consistent poverty are those living in households which, on the basis of surveys, lack goods and services considered essential by people in Ireland. Significant progress has already been made towards achieving this 2% target. The number of children who are consistently poor, for example, has more than halved in the four year period 1997 to 2001, falling from 15.3% in 1997 to 6.5% in 2001.
The causes of poverty among children and its effects are multi-faceted, requiring a multi-policy response. A wide range of data are required in effectively monitoring, evaluating and further developing such policies. It is for that reason that my Department and the Department of Health and Children, through the National Children's Office, are jointly funding a national longitudinal study on children. The study will be the most significant of its kind to be undertaken here, particularly in terms of the cost, scope and length of study period. It is anticipated that 10,000 children from birth and 8,000 children aged nine years will be recruited to participate in the study.
The aim of the study is to examine the factors which contribute to, or undermine, the well being of children in contemporary Irish families. The findings will make a major contribution to the setting of effective and responsive policies relating to children and to the design of services for children and their families. I expect that, following the completion of the tendering process, this study will commence in mid-2005.
126 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his proposals to provide more assistance to lone parents in receipt of social welfare payments who find themselves in financial difficulty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28217/04]
The main financial support available to lone parents is the one-parent family payment which was introduced in 1997 to replace a number of schemes which catered for different categories of lone parent. These schemes included lone parent's allowance, deserted wife's benefit and the non-contributory widow and widower's pension for those with dependent children.
The one-parent family payment, OFP, is based on the contingency of lone parenthood and the need for social welfare support for parents with children where a person has not secured adequate, or any, maintenance from the spouse or the other parent. One of the objectives of the one-parent family payment is to encourage lone parents to consider employment as an alternative to welfare dependency, while at the same time supporting them to remain in the home if they so wish. It is generally accepted that one of the most effective routes out of poverty for people in the active age groups is through paid employment.
The main element of this policy is an earnings disregard of €146.50 per week. Earnings above this limit are assessed at 50%, up to a maximum of €293 per week. The earnings disregard is designed to facilitate lone parents in entering or re-entering the workforce by enabling them retain entitlement to their payments until they become established in employment. It also facilitates them in availing of training opportunities to prepare them for employment. Lone parents who exceed the upper income limit applying under the one-parent family payment may qualify for the family income supplement. This scheme is designed to provide income support for employees on low earnings with children. It helps to make work pay for employees with children, in circumstances where otherwise they might only be marginally better off in work than if claiming other social welfare payments.
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on behalf of my Department by the health boards, provides for exceptional needs payments to help meet essential, once off expenditure which a person could not reasonably be expected to meet out of his or her weekly income. An application for an exceptional needs payment can be made by contacting the community welfare officer at the local health centre who will carry out an assessment of the applicant's circumstances to determine whether the issuing of an exceptional needs payment is warranted.
I am committed to review the income support arrangements for lone parents. This review will take account of recent reports and emerging analysis in this area, such as the review of the one-parent family payment, published by my own Department in September 2000. Full account is also being taken of policies and programmes pursued in other EU countries, as set out in their national action plans on social inclusion.
127 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has read the report compiled by the Children’s Rights Alliance, entitled End Child Poverty by 2007; and if he proposes to factor in the recommendations of the report, particularly in the area of child income support. [28115/04]
The Deputy is referring to the pre-budget submission by the Childrens Rights Alliance, entitled "End Child Poverty by 2007", in which the alliance makes the case for appropriate policy and budgetary measures with particular reference to child income support measures. In addition to the alliance's presentation at the annual pre-budget forum, I met representatives of the alliance recently and we discussed the contents of its submission.
With regard to child income support, the alliance's submission makes a number of recommendations which have relevance to my Department: implementing increases in child benefit; equalising and increasing child dependent additions to primary social welfare payments; increasing FIS income thresholds.
Tackling child poverty has been, and continues to be, one of the key priorities of this Government. The Government recognises the importance of supporting and protecting families and children and is fully committed to achieving the NAPS target of reducing the number of children who are consistently poor to below 2% by 2007 and, if possible, to eliminate consistent poverty amongst children by then. Significant progress has already been made towards achieving this target. The number of children who are consistently poor, for instance, has more than halved in the four year period 1997 to 2001, falling from 15.3% in 1997 to 6.5% in 2001.
The increased spending on child benefit in recent years has offered an effective means of channelling income support to low income families in order to tackle child poverty. Payments now amount to €131.60 for the first and second children and €165.30 for third and subsequent children. The completion of the announced programme of increases in the level of child benefit is a matter for consideration in the context of the budget.
Policy in recent years regarding CDAs has been to channel available resources through child benefit. In this way, the level of child income support is not reduced as a parent moves into employment. Given the close link between child poverty and the employment status of the parent, this has been a very important element of child income support strategy in recent years.
Family income supplement provides cash support by way of weekly payments to families, including lone parent families, at work on low pay. Improvements to the scheme, including the assessment of entitlements on the basis of net rather than gross income and the progressive increases in the income limits, have made it easier for lower income households to qualify under the scheme. Further improvements to FIS arrangements will be considered in a budgetary context.
128 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the work to date that he has carried out to promote family mediation as a non-adversarial approach to the resolution of issues which arise on marital breakdown and parental separation; the amount provided for and actually spent for each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28156/04]
130 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount he has allocated for and the amount spent in 2002, 2003 and 2004 to promote and support, in conjunction with the Family Support Agency, the provision of marriage and relationship counselling services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28155/04]
It is proposed to answer Questions Nos. 128 and 130 together.
The Family Support Agency, established on 6 May 2003, brings together pro-family programmes and services introduced by the Government in recent years. These are designed to promote continuity and stability in family life, help prevent family breakdown, support ongoing parenting relationships for children and local community support for families.
One of the services provided directly is a nationwide family mediation service. The agency provides funding to support, promote and develop the provision of marriage and relationship counselling and other family supports. The family and community services resource centre programme is also funded through the agency. This year, 2004, funding of €7.61 million was made available to some 520 voluntary and community groups nationwide providing marriage counselling, marriage preparation, child counselling relating to parental separation and bereavement counselling and support.
This Government's families first approach is illustrated by the expansion and continued success of this scheme. This year's funding is more than six and a half times the allocation in 1997 and some €600,000 greater than 2003. The amounts spent on this scheme in 2002 and 2003 respectively were €6,713,789 and €7,088,970.
The Family Mediation Service is a free, professional, confidential service that enables couples who have decided to separate to reach agreement on all issues related to their separation. It assists couples to address the issues on which they need to make decisions, including post-separation living arrangements, finances and parenting arrangements to enable children to have an ongoing relationship with each parent. The benefits of family mediation, as a non-adversarial approach to resolving the issues that arise on separation, are increasingly being recognised worldwide.
The continued expansion of the Family Mediation Service is a priority for the Family Support Agency. During 2003, new centres opened in Sligo and Waterford, bringing to 14 the number of offices nationally. Two more centres are planned for the near future, copper-fastening the service in the north west with the opening of a centre in Letterkenny and expanding the service in the Midlands with a new centre in Portlaoise. The amount provided for and spent for the Family Mediation Service in 2002 and 2003 is as follows:
|
Year |
Allocated |
Spent |
|
2002 |
€1.7 million |
€1,252,593 |
|
2003 |
€1,507,735 |
€1,398,406. |
A total of €2.445 million was allocated to the Family Mediation Service in 2004. For 2004, over €20 million has been made available to the Family Support Agency to fulfil its functions. The level of funding allocated to this area underlines this Government's commitment to supporting families in meeting their key responsibilities not just in the care of individual family members, but through this care to society generally. It represents a ten fold increase in the amount allocated to family services in 1997 when the Government first came to office.
132 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when he last reviewed his Department’s statement of strategy; the conclusions which were reached; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28125/04]
My Department's statement of strategy, Promoting a Caring Society, covers the period 2003 to 2005. The Department's goals as outlined in the strategy reflect the evolving role of the Department, from providing for the income support needs of customers to assisting them in accessing employment where appropriate, addressing the underlying causes of poverty and social exclusion, and supporting families.
The Department's annual reports detail the progress achieved over each year in implementing the strategy. The most recent annual report for 2003 is the first such on the implementation of the current strategy and provides a detailed account of developments. I am arranging for a copy to be sent to the Deputy.
Following my appointment as Minister, and in accordance with the provisions of the Public Service Management Act 1997, a new strategy statement is required to be put in place within six months of the date of my appointment. This will build and develop on the considerable progress which has already been achieved to date but will also provide an opportunity to re-examine the Department's existing objectives, outputs and related actions. Account will be taken in preparing the new strategy of the relevant commitments in the programme for Government, the Department's commitments under its modernisation action plan under Sustaining Progress, the customer action plan 2004-2007 and customer charter, and the Department's internal customer service plan.
133 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the way in which he has supported local authorities in extending the national anti-poverty strategy to them; the amount made available and spent in each of the respective local authorities for 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28159/04]
In 1999, as part of its remit in the national anti-poverty strategy, NAPS, the Combat Poverty Agency, CPA, in conjunction with my Department and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, devised the local government work programme. The main output of the programme is the local government anti-poverty learning network.
The overall aim of the network is to promote and support the development of a strong anti-poverty focus within local government. It is managed by the CPA, with the assistance of an advisory committee and a steering group. My Department's office for social inclusion is represented on both of these groups. The objectives of the network are to: provide a forum in which local authorities can share experience and consider how to make the maximum contribution to policies to tackle poverty and social inclusion; support and assist local authorities to incorporate a strong anti-poverty focus within their work; enable local authorities to share information about developing new and innovative projects and initiatives; and exchange different local experiences and best practice.
The network has supported a range of activities including meetings, grants, information provision, training and research. Overall CPA expenditure under the local government work programme was €396,958 in 2002, €395,024 in 2003 and €251,000 to date in 2004. The programme includes a scheme of grants for local anti-poverty projects which is administered by the CPA. A total sum of €180,866 was paid under this scheme in 2002; the sum paid in 2003 was €201,100 when the focus of the scheme was on applications that supported the development of elements of local anti-poverty strategies. The sum issued to date in 2004 is €45,000. I have asked the agency to provide the Deputy with a breakdown of expenditure across each local authority area.
The office for social inclusion continues to support the social inclusion role of the county and city development boards, CDBs, and the social inclusion measures, SIM, co-ordinating groups of the boards. The office also supports the pilot social inclusion units that were established in seven local authorities during 2002 to 2004. A social inclusion unit was in operation in Dublin City Council prior to the commencement of the pilot units but has also received funding under the pilot scheme. The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government provided total funding of €3.1 million for the establishment and operation of the units for the three year duration of the pilot scheme. In June 2004, independent consultants were engaged to undertake a review and evaluation of the pilot programme and will report shortly.
The office for social inclusion supports the Combat Poverty Agency's partnership in a transnational EU social exclusion programme project, entitled "Local Authorities and Social Inclusion". The project aims at strengthening anti-poverty practice in local government. Following on from the findings of the NESC review of poverty proofing, my Department is a partner in an integrated proofing project with the Equality Authority and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. In the medium term, the intention is that the formal process of poverty proofing will be extended to all areas of local government.
134 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has studied recent family budget research carried out by a group (details supplied) which pointed out the way in which family incomes fall short in meeting basic household costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28219/04]
The report to which the Deputy refers, Low Cost But Acceptable Budgets for Three Households, was launched by the Vincentian Partnership for Social Justice on 18 October this year. It sets out to apply budget standards to three household types.
The framework in which Government policy in this area operates is the national anti-poverty strategy. The reduction and eventual elimination of consistent poverty has been the priority goal of the national anti-poverty strategy since its inception. Using the most recent figures from the 2001 Living in Ireland survey, conducted by the ESRI, consistent poverty rates have fallen considerably from 15.1% in 1994 to 5.2% in 2001. There have been a number of major contributory factors behind this decrease. The substantial reduction in unemployment rates in recent years, particularly with regard to the long-term unemployed, has had a major impact on the numbers experiencing consistent poverty. In addition, policies designed to make work pay, such as the national minimum wage, family income supplement and the back to work allowance have further contributed to the decline in consistent poverty rates.
The lowest social welfare rates have been increased by 62% since 1997, 27% in real terms. The value of social transfers in Ireland can be seen in the fact that the numbers at risk of poverty before such transfers in 2001 was 30% but had fallen to 21% following social transfers. This was among the largest reductions achieved by social transfers of any country in the EU. It demonstrates that the social welfare system is well targeted towards the less well off. Commitments are made in the national anti-poverty strategy to increase old age pensions to €200 per week and to make progress towards achieving the target level of €150, in 2002 terms, for the lowest rates of social welfare payments by 2007.
The challenge now and for the future is to sustain the progress we have made so that we can meet our objective of achieving further substantial reductions in the levels of consistent poverty. The information presented in this study is being considered by officials in my Department and will be fully taken into account in future policy development, especially in the context of the national anti-poverty strategy.
135 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the training programmes which have been sourced by his Department in co-operation and consultation with training agencies in both the public and private sectors since 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28160/04]
My Department assists and encourages long-term unemployed and other long-term welfare recipients to return to work, training or further education through a range of measures administered by the Department's employment support service.
One significant measure is the back to work allowance scheme which incentivises and encourages long-term unemployed people, lone parents and certain people with disabilities to return to work by allowing them to retain part of their social welfare payment when they take up employment or self employment. Another measure offered by my Department's employment support service is the back to education allowance programme.
Facilitators, based in social welfare local offices, can provide additional support to the more marginalised groups in the community, through the special projects fund. This fund enables facilitators to provide enhanced supports to people who need additional help to progress to further training and employment. The groups who need special help of this nature include the long-term ill and people with disabilities, the very long-term unemployed, Travellers, people with literacy difficulties and lone parents.
In addition to the special projects fund, funding is also available by way of the family services project. This funding focuses supports specifically towards some of the key national anti-poverty strategy target groups. It has developed an enhanced programme of support for a small group of customers with complex needs, for example, very young lone parents, parents rearing children without the support of a partner and dependent spouses on social welfare payments.
It is anticipated that the provision of the additional support involving individual attention, customised information and enhanced access to services will increase the capacity of those in the most difficult circumstances to improve their personal situations through the access to basic education, training and developmental opportunities made available.
Since 2002, over 500 special projects have been funded, co-founded or part funded by my Department. Since 2002, just under 200 family services projects have been centrally approved for funding, co-funding or part funding by my Department. I have arranged that further details of individual projects will be provided to the Deputy.
136 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons using the money advice and budgeting service; the numbers of MABS centres and their location; if he has satisfied himself that the budget provided to MABS is adequate to allow it to function efficiently; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28225/04]
In 2003, the money advice and budgeting service provided services to approximately 16,000 new clients and had more than 13,000 active cases at any one time. The number of new clients has increased from 9,000 in 2001 and 12,000 in 2002. An average of 1,700 persons per month visit the MABS website at www.mabs.ie.
There are 52 MABS companies throughout the country with a total of 65 offices including outreach facilities. Each county has at least one MABS company, with the larger counties such as Galway, Tipperary, Mayo, Cork and Donegal having two or more. Due to its large population Dublin city and county has 17 MABS centres. There are 130 money advisers and 80 administrative staff working in the MABS. Provision has been made for a budget of more than €11 million for MABS in 2004.
I am satisfied that the budget provided to MABS is sufficient to enable it to function adequately. The MABS budget since the inception of the scheme has always been sufficient to ensure that the service could develop to its present level and to ensure that all reasonable requests for funding received from MABS companies can be considered. This year's level of funding represents an increase of 15% on the level of funding allowed for the year 2003.
A recent evaluation found that over 90% of those questioned were positively disposed towards the service. This included clients, community and voluntary bodies, the finance industry and statutory creditors. The evaluation also found that two thirds of the caseload consisted of female clients. Just over half were aged between 25 and 44 years and one third were aged over 45 years. A small proportion were aged under 25 years. Approximately 70% were receiving some form of social welfare payment.
The overall conclusion was that the MABS has proven itself a worthwhile intervention with a strong rationale for its continuation.
137 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will provide the rates of child dependant allowance that would now exist had CDA payments been indexed linked and not frozen at 1994 levels. [28170/04]
Since 1994, successive Governments have held the rate of child dependant allowances constant while concentrating resources for child income support on the child benefit scheme. It is important to recognise that over that period, the combined child benefit-child dependant allowance payment has increased by more than double the rate of inflation.
Child benefit is neutral vis-à-vis the employment status of the child’s parents and does not contribute to poverty traps, whereas the loss of child dependent allowances by social welfare recipients on taking up employment can act as a disincentive to availing of work opportunities. As a universal payment, which is not taxable and is not assessed as means for other secondary benefits, child benefit is in fact more effective than child dependant allowances as a child income support mechanism when account is taken of these incentive issues.
The Government's commitment to this policy is reflected in the substantial resources invested in the child benefit scheme since entering office, including an additional expenditure of €1.27 billion on child benefit when the current programme of multi-annual increases is complete. We will then have moved from a position in 1994 where 70% of child income support for a family claiming social welfare payments was in the form of child dependant allowances, to a position where child dependant allowances will account for less than 33%.
The issue of the appropriate strategy to succeed the current one of increasing child benefit rates has been brought to the fore by the special initiative in Sustaining Progress, and in particular the commitment to review the importance of child income support arrangements, including examining the effectiveness of, for example, merging child dependant allowance with family income supplement, FIS. NESC has been commissioned to carry out this review.
It is estimated that if the three rates of child dependant allowance, €16.80, €19.30 and €21.60, were index linked from 1994 to 2004 they would be €22.66, €26.04 and €29.14 respectively.
The issue of increasing child dependant allowances has been raised on a number of occasions. The increased investment in the child benefit scheme which the Government has made in recent years has been of major benefit to families and is a most effective use of the resources available for child income support. The question of further rationalisation of child dependant increases will be a matter for consideration in a budgetary context and in the context of priorities generally.
139 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that persons are giving up their jobs in order to qualify for medical cards in view of the fact that their income alone is not sufficient to cover ongoing medical needs; the cost of this to the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28243/04]
The Government is fully committed to the extension of medical card coverage as set out in the health strategy. This will focus on people on low incomes. The timing of the introduction of the extension will be decided having regard to the prevailing budgetary position.
The Deputy may be aware that entitlement to health services in Ireland is primarily based on residency and means. Under the Health Act 1970, determination of eligibility for medical cards is the responsibility of the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board other than for persons aged 70 years and over, who are automatically eligible for a medical card. Medical cards are issued to persons who, in the opinion of the chief executive officer, are unable to provide general practitioner medical and surgical services for themselves and their dependants without undue hardship.
Income guidelines are drawn up each year by the health board or authority chief executive officers to assist in the determination of a person's eligibility for a medical card and these are revised annually in line with the consumer price index, CPI. The last such increase was notified in January 2004.
For those who do not qualify for a medical card a number of schemes provide assistance towards the cost of medication. Under the long-term illness scheme persons suffering from a number of conditions can obtain the drugs and medicines required for the treatment of that condition free of charges. Under the drug payments scheme, a person and his or her dependants will not have to pay more than €78 in any calendar month for approved prescribed drugs and medicines.
Health board chief executive officers have discretion in regard to the issuing of medical cards and a range of income sources are excluded by the health boards when assessing medical card eligibility. Despite someone having an income that exceeds the guidelines, a medical card may still be awarded if the chief executive officer considers that a person's medical needs or other circumstances would justify this. It is open to all persons to apply to the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board for health services if they are unable to provide these services for themselves or their dependants without hardship.
Increases in social welfare rates in recent years have given rise to a situation where such rates may exceed the income guidelines for a medical card. Due to this situation, my Department has written to the chairman of the chief executive officers' group on a number of occasions asking that he advise the CEOs of the concern that medical card holders should not be disadvantaged by virtue of increases in social welfare payments announced in the budget. They were asked to ensure that increases in social welfare payments do not lead to medical card holders losing their medical cards by reference to the income guidelines and to make every effort to ensure that both medical card holders and applicants are made fully aware that increases in social welfare payments will not disadvantage them when applying to hold or retain a medical card.
I should also add that, as part of budget 1996, the then Government announced that persons who have been unemployed for at least one year shall retain their medical cards after entering employment. Persons on the live register for at least one year, who take up paid insurable employment were deemed to meet the criteria for retaining their medical cards for three years. The provision also covers participants on approved schemes applicable to the long-term unemployed, including back to work allowance, BTWA, community employment, jobstart, job initiative, partnership and community group initiative and development courses such as workplace and vocational training opportunities scheme, VTOS. The purpose of the budget provision was to remove disincentives to labour force participation by long-term unemployed persons. The retention of medical card eligibility is approved for a period of three years when a person or the spouse of a person who has been unemployed for a minimum of one year takes up employment. In this context, time spent on the live register, approved schemes or courses for the long-term unemployed is treated as an unemployed period.
The health strategy that is being implemented includes a series of initiatives to clarify and expand the existing arrangements for eligibility for health services, including recommendations arising from the review of the medical card scheme carried out by the health board CEOs under the PPF which include: streamlining applications and improving the standardisation of the medical card applications process to ensure better fairness and transparency; providing clearer information to people about how and where to apply for medical cards; proactively seeking out those who should have medical cards to ensure they have access to the services that are available.
A core objective of the health strategy is that all people should have access to high quality services. Priority will be given to supporting those who need to access the health service they require, and I will address the provision of health services from this perspective with particular emphasis on the implementation of the current reform programme. In line with the health strategy, my Department is committed to the preparation of new legislation to update and codify the legal framework for eligibility and entitlements in regard to health services.
140 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will allocate additional funding, independent of the funding for the elderly, for home help in regard to parents of triplets (details supplied) in County Meath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28245/04]
The provision of home help services, and any matters relating to such provision within its functional area, is a matter for the relevant health board or the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA. In the case of Collon, County Meath, this responsibility lies with the North Eastern Health Board. In the circumstances my Department has requested the chief executive officer of the North Eastern Health Board to reply direct to the Deputy.
141 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the Southern Health Board has identified the availability of a site for a new health centre in the Youghal Community Hospital and that design team approval has been sought from her Department; if she will give this approval as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28249/04]
My Department has been aware for some time of a proposal by the Southern Health Board to provide a new health centre at Youghal. However, it has not been possible to date, given the competing demands generally of progressing other new capital developments in the Southern Health Board region, to progress this particular project. The question of the appointment of a design team in this case will be kept under review by my Department in the context of determining what new capital commitments can be made, in line with overall funding resources available, under the health capital investment framework 2004-8. My Department will continue to liaise with the Southern Health Board in the matter.
142 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on whether there is a crisis with orthodontic treatment for children in the mid-western region and in north Tipperary in particular; her strategy for dealing with waiting lists in certain parts of the country for orthodontic treatment for children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28250/04]
The provision of orthodontic services is the statutory responsibility of the health boards/authority in the first instance.
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that a number of measures have been adopted to improve orthodontic services in the Mid-Western Health Board, MWHB, 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 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. My Department has given approval in principle to a proposal to further substantially improve training facilities for orthodontics at the school, which will ultimately support an enhanced teaching and treatment service to the wider region — including the MWHB — under the leadership of the professor of orthodontics.
In June 2002, my Department provided additional funding of €5 million from the treatment purchase fund to 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 MWHB was allocated an additional €451,000 from this fund for the treatment of cases in this way.
The chief executive officer of the Mid-Western Health Board has informed my Department that at the end of the September 2004 quarter, there were 1,863 patients receiving orthodontic treatment in the board. The chief executive officers of the health boards/authority have informed my Department that at the end of the September 2004 quarter, there were 22,168 patients receiving orthodontic treatment in the public orthodontic service. This means that there are over twice as many patients getting orthodontic treatment as there are waiting to be treated and more than 6,000 extra patients are getting treatment from the health boards-authority since the end of the September 2001 quarter.
143 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the BreastCheck programme on the east coast will reach the rest of the country; the progress which has been made to date in launching a similar BreastCheck programme in the mid-western region; her plans for the women of north Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28251/04]
The roll out of the national breast screening programme to the remaining counties is a major priority in the development of cancer services. This will ensure that all women in the 50 to 64 year age group throughout the country have access to breast screening and follow-up treatment where required. A capital investment of approximately €20 million has been approved to construct and equip two static clinical units, one in Cork and the other in Galway. This investment will also ensure that mobile units are available to screen women in the relevant age group in the Mid-Western Health Board area. BreastCheck and my Department are fully committed to an expeditious approach to the national roll out of the programme and representatives have met recently to progress the design process.
144 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress to date on the proposed health centre for Borrisokane, County Tipperary; the funds which have been committed to the project to date; if the necessary resources will be provided to construct the facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28252/04]
The provision of health centres to meet the needs of local communities and the prioritising of such centres within its functional area is a matter for the relevant health board or the Eastern Regional Health Authority in the first instance. In the case of Borrisokane, County Tipperary, this responsibility rests with the Mid-Western Health Board.
My Department is aware of a proposal for a health centre in Borrisokane. However, the Mid-Western Health Board has not afforded a high enough priority for this proposal to be considered in the current year and no funding has been committed for this project to date.
145 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the details of children’s playgrounds funded through the National Children’s Office to date; if she intends to increase funding for children’s playgrounds in 2005; the number of applications; the amounts granted; the areas grant aided in north Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28253/04]
Ready, Steady, Play: A National Play Policy, published on 8 March 2004, provides a framework for the development of public play facilities in Ireland, with the overall aim of ensuring that children have access to a range of quality play opportunities to enrich their childhood.
At the launch of the policy, as the Minister of State with special responsibility for children, I announced details of the local authority playground grants scheme. The purpose of the scheme, which is being jointly administered by the National Children's Office, NCO, and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, is to enhance the provision of publicly provided playgrounds around the country through the development of new and refurbishment of existing playgrounds.
A total of 33 applications for funding were received under the scheme, which requires the city or county council to provide matching funding. Some 32 applications have been approved. The 32 new or refurbished playgrounds to be developed under this scheme will represent a substantial increase in the overall numbers of playgrounds in Ireland. A full list of the grants approved under this scheme are set out in appendix 1. Under the scheme, the grants are payable in arrears by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and it is expected that the playgrounds will be completed in late 2004 or early 2005. A grant of €47,000 has been approved to Tipperary North County Council for a playground in Loughtagalla, Thurles.
Under the RAPID playground grants scheme, funding of €3 million, €1.5 million from the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and €1.5 million from the Department of Health and Children, is being provided in 2004 to support the development of new or refurbishment of existing playgrounds in RAPID areas. Each strand I RAPID area will receive a total allocation of €72,000 and each strand II RAPID area will receive a total allocation of €60,000. The local authority in consultation with the relevant area implementation team selected the project(s) to be supported. All 45 applications for funding were successful and this will result in playgrounds being built in some of the most disadvantaged areas in the country, at the locations set out in appendix 2. There are no RAPID designated areas in north Tipperary and therefore no allocations for funding have been made under this scheme.
No decision regarding funding for playgrounds in 2005 has been made at this time. The Deputy may wish to note that while the NCO, which is fully funded by my Department, has an overall role in supporting implementation of the national play policy, individual Departments retain responsibility for implementation of actions falling within their remit. In the context of playgrounds, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has lead responsibility for this area.
|
Grants approved under the local authority playground grants scheme by location. |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
No. |
Local Authority |
Location of Playground |
Amount Approved |
|
€ |
|||
|
1 |
Carlow County Council |
Leighlinbridge |
40,000 |
|
2 |
Cavan County Council |
Ballyjamesduff |
50,000 |
|
3 |
Clare County Council |
Cloughleigh, Ennis |
50,000 |
|
4 |
Cork City Council |
Loughmahon Park |
70,000 |
|
5 |
Cork County Council |
Charleville |
42,000 |
|
6 |
Donegal County Council |
Donegal Town |
50,000 |
|
7 |
Dublin City Council |
Johnstown Park |
88,000 |
|
8 |
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council |
Cabinteely |
84,000 |
|
9 |
Fingal County Council |
Millennium Park, Blanchardstown |
140,000 |
|
10 |
Galway City Council |
Castlepark |
64,000 |
|
11 |
Galway County Council |
Loughrea |
100,000 |
|
12 |
Kerry County Council |
Ballybunion |
80,000 |
|
13 |
Kildare County Council |
Kildare Town |
72,000 |
|
14 |
Laois County Council |
Portarlington |
65,000 |
|
15 |
Leitrim County Council |
Mohill |
41,000 |
|
16 |
Limerick City Council |
Shelbourne Park |
89,000 |
|
17 |
Longford County Council |
Granard |
49,000 |
|
18 |
Louth County Council |
Dundalk |
72,000 |
|
19 |
Mayo County Council |
Ballyhaunis |
60,000 |
|
20 |
Meath County Council |
Athboy |
50,000 |
|
21 |
Monaghan County Council |
Newbliss Village |
17,000 |
|
22 |
Offaly County Council |
Tullamore |
70,000 |
|
23 |
Roscommon County Council |
Loughnaneane Park |
90,000 |
|
24 |
Sligo County Council |
Dramore West |
54,000 |
|
25 |
South Dublin County Council |
Tymon Park |
115,000 |
|
26 |
Tipperary (NR) County Council |
Loughtagalla, Thurles |
47,000 |
|
27 |
Tipperary (SR) County Council |
Fair Green, Carrick-On-Suir |
63,000 |
|
28 |
Waterford City Council |
Williamstown |
80,000 |
|
29 |
Waterford County Council |
Tallow |
40,000 |
|
30 |
Westmeath County Council |
Kinnegad |
40,000 |
|
31 |
Wexford County Council |
Enniscorthy |
45,000 |
|
32 |
Wicklow County Council |
Kilmacanogue |
57,000 |
|
Grants approved under the RAPID playground grants scheme by location. |
||
|---|---|---|
|
RAPID — STRAND 1 |
||
|
Area |
Department CRGA |
Department Health & Children |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Dublin City Council |
||
|
Dublin South West Inner City (Canals & Kimmage/Crumlin) |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Dublin South Inner City |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Dublin North West Inner City |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Dublin North East Inner City |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Dublin South East Inner City |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Finglas |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Dublin Northside (Darndale/Belcamp) |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Dublin Ballymun |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Fingal County Council |
||
|
Blanchardstown |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
South Dublin County Council |
||
|
Tallaght — Killinarden |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Tallaght — Fettercairn |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Tallaght — Jobstown |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Clondalkin |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown |
||
|
Dún Laoghaire |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Wicklow County Council |
||
|
Bray |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Louth County Council |
||
|
Dundalk |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Drogheda |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Cork City Council |
||
|
Knocknaheeney/Churchfield |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Fairhill/Garranabraher/Farranree |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Blackpool/The Glen/Mayfield |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Togher/Mahon |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Limerick City Council |
||
|
Ballynanty/Kileely |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Kings Island |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
South Limerick City |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Waterford City Council |
||
|
Waterford |
36,000 |
36,000 |
|
Area |
Department CRGA |
Department Health & Children |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Westmeath County Council |
||
|
Athlone |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Kildare County Council |
||
|
Athy |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Galway County Council |
||
|
Ballinasloe |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Tuam |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Cavan County Council |
||
|
Cavan |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
South Tipperary County Council |
||
|
Carrick-on-Suir |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Clonmel |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Tipperary |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Carlow County Council |
||
|
Carlow |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Clare County Council |
||
|
Ennis |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Galway City Council |
||
|
Galway |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Kilkenny County Council |
||
|
Kilkenny |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Longford County Council |
||
|
Longford |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Cork County Council |
||
|
Mallow |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Youghal |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Meath County Council |
||
|
Navan |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Wexford County Council |
||
|
New Ross |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Wexford |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Sligo County Council |
||
|
Sligo |
30,000 |
30,000 |
|
Kerry County Council |
||
|
Tralee |
30,000 |
30,000 |
146 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if two additional hours home help will be provided for a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28294/04]
As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in County Waterford is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the South Eastern Health Board. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the issue raised by the Deputy and reply direct to him as a matter of urgency.
147 Mr. McGinley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from her Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28373/04]
2004 is the first year in which designated funding for RAPID in the health sector became available. In the context of the RAPID leverage fund, the Department of Health and Children is making €2 million available, over the period 2004-05, to match €2 million being provided by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs from that fund for projects in the health sector.
In addition, the Department of Health and Children is making €1.5 million of its capital budget in 2004 available to the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for play projects as a follow up to the publication by the National Children's Office of Ready, Steady, Play: A National Play Policy.
In addition to the above amounts specifically designated for RAPID, the Department of Health and Children, in the letters of determination in 2003 and 2004, requested health boards to prioritise projects in RAPID areas, within available resources.
148 Mr. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason it has not been possible for the relevant health board to provide suitable day services for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28399/04]
Responsibility for the provision of funding for services, including day services, for persons with intellectual disability and those with autism in the Dublin 11 area is a matter, in the first instance, for the Eastern Regional Health Authority.
My Department has asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter and reply directly to the Deputy.
149 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will address the urgent needs of a home help organisation (details supplied). [28418/04]
As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Rialto 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 directly to her as a matter of urgency.
150 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if public hospitals will be allowed to offer incentives and flexibility to nurses in order to retain numbers. [28434/04]
The recruitment and retention of adequate numbers of nursing staff has been a concern of this Government for some time. A number of substantial measures have been introduced in recent years which offer incentives and flexibility to nurses.
The Government has invested in nurse training at both undergraduate and post-registration level. The number of nursing training places has been increased by 70% since 1998 to 1,640 from 2002 onwards. Nursing is an attractive career option for school leaver and mature code applicants alike. This is evident from the number of applicants for such courses. For example, there were 8,300 CAO applications for 1,640 places in the autumn 2004 intake. This is most encouraging, given that there is an ever increasing array of attractive alternatives provided by our third level education system. My Department also funds a comprehensive range of financial supports for nurses pursuing part-time degrees and specialist courses, including back-to-practice courses.
The promotional structure within nursing, including the introduction of a clinical career pathway, has been substantially improved on foot of the recommendations of the commission on nursing and the 1999 nurses' pay settlement. The National Council for the Professional Development of Nursing and Midwifery is charged with establishing guidelines for specialist posts. To date, the council has accredited 1,600 clinical nurse specialists and advanced nurse practitioners.
A further measure to attract nurses into the public system was the introduction of paid overtime in 1998. Previously they had been given time off in lieu and the introduction of payment represents a further significant financial incentive for nurses.
A scheme of flexible working arrangements for nurses and midwives was introduced by my Department in February 2001. Under the scheme, individual nurses and midwives may apply to work between eight and 39 hours per week on a permanent, part-time basis. The figure of 33,969 whole-time equivalent nurses working in the health service translates into 40,081 individual nurses. Of these, 9,655 job-share or work other atypical patterns. Thus, almost one quarter of the nursing workforce avails of family friendly work practices.
The recruitment and retention measures introduced by the Government in recent years have led to a substantial increase in the number of nurses working in the health service and a consequent reduction in the number of vacancies. In 1998, there were 26,612 whole-time equivalent nurses employed in the public health system. By the end of June 2004 this figure had reached 33,969. This is an increase of over 7,350 during the period or 27.6%. The vacancy rate of 1.92% at 30 June 2004 compares to a rate of 4.3% at September 2000.
I am confident that the extensive range of measures I have outlined, including the substantial increase in training places, the more effective utilisation of professional skills of nurses and midwives, in addition to the close monitoring and assessment of the situation on an ongoing basis, will continue to prove effective in addressing the nursing workforce needs of the health services.
151 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if more funding will be allocated for the accident and emergency departments in hospitals. [28435/04]
I have previously said that the delivery of accident and emergency services will be an area for particular attention during my term as Minister for Health and Children. I intend to identify the particular pressure points within the health system that affect the efficient delivery of emergency services and to address them in the context of the Estimates process.
152 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is on a waiting list for a cataract operation; if so, the length of time they have been on the list; and when they can expect to be called. [28447/04]
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 regard to this case and to reply directly to the Deputy.
153 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare currently in respite care in Maynooth Community Hospital, Maynooth, County Kildare, could have their length of stay extended for a further four weeks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28472/04]
As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Naas 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.
154 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position in regard to persons in receipt of widow’s pension who are working for a small number of hours, in many cases for therapeutic reasons, or who have been on community employment schemes and are now in receipt of a minimal amount of social welfare on their stamps; if there is a policy that allows them to keep their medical cards for three years after starting work; if, in view of the fact that they have contributed to the State for a number of years, they can keep their medical cards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28484/04]
Entitlement to health services in Ireland is primarily based on residency and means. Under the Health Act 1970, determination of eligibility for medical cards is the responsibility of the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board. Other than persons aged 70 years and over who are automatically entitled to a medical card, medical cards are issued to persons who, in the opinion of the chief executive officer, are unable to provide general practitioner medical and surgical services for themselves and/or their dependants without undue hardship. The chief executive officers of the boards/authority are currently reviewing numerous issues, including assessment of income, in the administration of the medical card scheme, and I understand that their findings and recommendations will be available in the near future.
Income guidelines are drawn up each year by the health board/authority chief executive officers to assist in the determination of a person's eligibility for a medical card and these are revised annually in line with the consumer price index, CPI. The last such increase was notified in January 2004, and the next increase is due by the end of this year.
In regard to the retention of medical cards on re-entering employment, as part of budget 1996, the then Government announced that persons who have been unemployed for at least one year shall retain their medical cards after entering employment. Persons on the live register for at least one year who take up paid insurable employment were deemed to meet the criteria for retaining their medical cards for three years. The provision also covers participants on approved schemes applicable to the long-term unemployed, including back to work allowance, BTWA, community employment, jobstart, job initiative, partnership and community group initiative and development courses such as workplace and vocational training opportunities scheme, VTOS. The purpose of the budget provision was to remove disincentives to labour force participation by long-term unemployed persons.
The retention of medical card eligibility is approved for a period of three years when a person or the spouse of a person who has been unemployed for a minimum of one year takes up employment. In this context, time spent on the live register, approved schemes or courses for the long-term unemployed is treated as an unemployed period.
Furthermore, it is the case that increases in social welfare rates in recent years have given rise to a situation where such rates may exceed the income guidelines for a medical card. Accordingly, my Department has written to the chairman of the Chief Executive Officers' Group on a number of occasions asking that he advise the CEOs of the concern that medical card holders should not be disadvantaged by virtue of increases in social welfare payments announced in the budget. They were asked to ensure that increases in social welfare payments do not lead to medical card holders losing their medical cards by reference to the income guidelines and to make every effort to ensure that both medical card holders and applicants are made fully aware that increases in social welfare payments will not disadvantage them when applying to hold or retain a medical card.
For those who do not qualify for a medical card a number of schemes provide assistance towards the cost of medication. Under the long-term illness scheme, persons suffering from a number of conditions can obtain the drugs and medicines required for the treatment of that condition free of charge. Under the drug payments scheme, a person and his or her dependants will not have to pay more than €78 in any calendar month for approved prescribed drugs and medicines.
Health board chief executive officers have discretion in regard to the issuing of medical cards and a range of income sources are excluded by the health boards when assessing medical card eligibility. Despite someone having an income that exceeds the guidelines, a medical card may still be awarded if the chief executive officer considers, on an individual case by case basis, that a person's financial needs arising from medical or social circumstances would justify this. It is open to all persons to apply to the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board for health services if they are unable to provide these services for themselves or their dependants without hardship.
The Government is fully committed to the extension of medical card coverage as set out in the health strategy. This will focus on people on low incomes. The timing of the introduction of the extension will be decided having regard to the prevailing budgetary position.
The health strategy includes a series of initiatives to clarify and expand the existing arrangements for eligibility for health services, including recommendations arising from the review of the medical card scheme carried out by the health board CEOs under the PPF which include: streamlining applications and improving the standardisation of the medical card applications process to ensure better fairness and transparency; providing clearer information to people about how and where to apply for medical cards; and proactively seeking out those who should have medical cards to ensure they have access to the services that are available.
In addition, my Department is committed to the preparation of new legislation to update and codify the legal framework for eligibility and entitlements in regard to health services.
155 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children , further to Parliamentary Question No. 144 of 3 November 2004, when the group examining potential uses of a property (details supplied) and its lands in County Carlow was set up; the members of the group; the terms of reference of the group; the date the report is expected. [28737/04]
As stated in my reply of 3 November 2004, the working group mentioned by the Deputy was set up by the South Eastern Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer of the board to reply directly to the Deputy on the matter.
156 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance if householders and owners of premises in towns in west Cork badly affected by recent flooding, in particular, in Clonakilty and Bantry, will be covered by the proposed compensation scheme; and the details of such a scheme. [28240/04]
The Government has approved the establishment of a humanitarian aid scheme to relieve hardship arising from flooding of people's homes as a result of severe rainfall over several days during the last week of October 2004. The Irish Red Cross has been appointed to administer the scheme on the ground. My officials in the Office of Public Works met last week with the IRC to finalise arrangements for the scheme and advertising of the scheme in both the national and local media has commenced. The closing date for receipt of applications is 24 November 2004.
The scheme applies to homes but not to businesses. It is emphasised that the scheme is humanitarian and is designed to relieve hardship and is, therefore, not compensation for losses. Eligibility criteria for assistance will be in line with previous aid schemes, namely death, serious injury, damage to home or extreme hardship. The scheme applies countrywide.
157 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance the amount spent on the restoration work at Kells Priory, Kells, County Kilkenny, in each of the past four years; if there is an overall plan of works; the cost of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28241/04]
A total allocation of €690,000 has been provided under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 for conservation works at Kells Priory. Expenditure on the project to the end of October 2004 is €366,483, which is broken down as follows:
|
€ |
|
|
2001 |
18,918 |
|
2002 |
29,472 |
|
2003 |
186,300 |
|
2004 |
131,793 |
The project comprises essential conservation and safety works, which will permit increased public access to the site and will continue until the end of 2006.
158 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance the systems in place to treat waste water and sewage at Cahir Castle and the Rock of Cashel; if there are treatment systems at these and all other heritage sites which meet the required standards; if a survey of each site has been carried out to ensure that each complies with best practice in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28242/04]
The staff toilets and public toilets at Cahir Castle and the staff toilets at the Rock of Cashel are connected to the local municipal sewers. The public toilets at the Rock of Cashel are operated by Cashel Town Council.
With regard to the other heritage sites in the care of the Office of Public Works, where staff toilets or public toilets are provided, they are connected to the relevant local authority sewerage system or have treatment systems installed. A survey of the existing facilities and their requirements under the current legislative framework is in progress.
159 Mr. English asked the Minister for Finance the reason tax relief for disabled drivers will not extend to persons with the use of only one arm or hand in view of the fact that vehicles have to be specially adapted; if he intends to review the criteria in general for persons to become eligible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28244/04]
The disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions scheme is open to people with disabilities who meet the specified criteria and have obtained a primary medical certificate to that effect. The senior area medical officer attached to the relevant local health board is responsible for both the medical assessment and the issue of the medical certificate.
The medical criteria for the purposes of the tax concessions under this scheme are set out in the disabled drivers and disabled passengers, tax concessions, regulations 1994. Six different types of disablement are listed under the regulations and a qualifying person must satisfy one or more of them. The six types of disablement are persons who are wholly or almost wholly without the use of both legs; persons who are wholly without the use of one leg and almost wholly without the use of the other leg such that the applicant is severely restricted as to movement of the lower limbs; persons without both hands or without both arms; persons without one or both legs; persons wholly or almost wholly without the use of both hands or arms and wholly or almost wholly without the use of one leg; and persons having the medical condition of dwarfism who have serious difficulties of movement of the lower limbs.
An individual who qualifies under the medical criteria as set out above is issued with a primary medical certificate. Possession of a primary medical certificate qualifies the holder for remission or repayment of vehicle registration tax, VRT, plus a repayment of value added tax, VAT, on the purchase of the vehicle, plus a repayment of VAT on the cost of adaptation of the vehicle. Repayment of the excise duty on fuel used in the motor vehicle and exemption from annual road tax to local authorities are also allowed.
An interdepartmental review group was established to review the disabled drivers' and disabled passengers' tax concessions scheme. The group examined all aspects of the scheme, including the qualifying medical criteria. The report was published on my Department's website in early July and copies have been placed in the Oireachtas Library. As agreed by Government in June, I will consider the report on an ongoing basis in the overall budgetary context, having regard to the existing and prospective cost of the scheme.
160 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance if he will investigate the serious flooding that occurred in areas (details supplied) in County Cork in recent days; if his attention has been drawn to the severe hardship which was imposed on residents during this storm; if humanitarian aid will be available to help the persons affected during this very stressful time; and if a survey will be carried out of the areas affected with a view to having remedial works and flood protection work put in place as soon as possible. [28311/04]
Preliminary reports from Cork County Council suggest that approximately 50 homes and 20 business premises were flooded in Youghal following the severe rainfall in the last days of October. Indications from the council also suggest that approximately six homes flooded in Cobh town while approximately six homes in the Bellvelly Bridge area were affected as well.
Last week, the Government approved a humanitarian aid package to relieve hardship arising from the flooding of people's homes. The purpose of the scheme is to provide humanitarian assistance to relieve hardship and not to provide compensation for losses. My officials have met the Irish Red Cross Society, IRCS, which will implement the scheme. Details of the scheme were agreed and they were published in the national press at the weekend. They will also be published in the local press this week. The closing date for receipt of applications under the scheme is 24 November 2004. The IRCS has considerable experience in this area, having previously implemented a number of such schemes in the past for the OPW, and I have every confidence that applications will be dealt with in a compassionate, impartial and timely manner.
Last month the Government approved the recommendations of the flood policy review group. This confirms the lead role of the OPW in taking a strategic approach to flood management in the future and working in co-operation with the relevant local authorities. Following the recent flooding, OPW will seek initial assessments of the situation in both the city and county areas of Cork. These assessments will be considered by OPW under new prioritisation criteria, currently being developed by OPW, for all flood relief works, as recommended by the flood policy review group.
161 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Finance the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28374/04]
The programme for revitalising areas by planning, investment and development relates to the co-ordination of relevant activities in disadvantaged areas. No plans submitted under this programme relate to activities carried on by my Department. As such, no funding for these programmes is provided through my Department's Vote.
162 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the number of maturing SSIA accounts; the amounts estimated to be paid out each month; and the average payout per maturing account per month. [28416/04]
The SSIA scheme opened on 1 May 2001 and entry to it closed on 30 April 2002. The accounts are due to mature between May 2006 and April 2007 at the end of the five year period. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that, based on the analysis of the 2003 returns furnished by all qualifying savings managers, the total number of active accounts at 31 December 2003 was 1,113,880. The cumulative gross value of subscriptions and associated tax credits to end 2003 was €5.52 billion. This gross figure is inclusive of €57 million in respect of funds that have been withdrawn from accounts, funds in accounts that have been ceased and funds in accounts that have matured, that is, where the account holder died, during the years 2001 to 2003.
I do not wish to speculate on the amounts estimated to be paid out on maturation of the scheme in 2006 and 2007, as the scheme does not commence to mature for another one and a half years and a number of variables is involved. These include participants withdrawing from the scheme or varying their monthly contributions between now and the end of the scheme; the eventual accrued investment return; and the eventual amount of exit tax to be received at the end.
163 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Finance if a site has been acquired for the decentralisation of the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism in Killarney, County Kerry; if so, the location of the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28417/04]
The Office of Public Works has identified a number of potentially suitable sites in Killarney. The detailed evaluation process is at an advanced stage and preliminary acquisition negotiations are in hand.
164 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the information available to him on the cost to the Exchequer in terms of tax foregone of tax reliefs (details supplied). [28443/04]
165 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the annual cost to the Exchequer in terms of tax foregone of tax reliefs (details supplied). [28444/04]
166 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Exchequer in terms of tax foregone of tax reliefs (details supplied). [28445/04]
167 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Exchequer in terms of tax foregone of tax reliefs (details supplied). [28446/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 164 to 167, inclusive, together.
Claims for most of the reliefs mentioned in the question are aggregated in tax returns with other claims. They do not distinguish between the reliefs claimed in respect of different schemes. Accordingly, the specific information on costs is not available. The various capital allowance schemes in question represent only part of the overall amounts for capital allowances claimed annually, the bulk of which is made up of ordinary business capital expenses and depreciation.
As part of ongoing commitments to improve the quality of information available on the costs of tax expenditures generally, the Revenue Commissioners are introducing a number of changes to certain tax forms, which will yield additional information regarding the cost of reliefs. Provisions were included in the Finance Act 2004 to underpin these changes. This will provide better data in this area and enable fuller estimates of the tax foregone to be made over time.
With regard to tax relief on retirement for certain sportspersons, this scheme was introduced relatively recently. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that statistics are, therefore, not available that would enable the information requested to be provided. Taxpayers claiming the relief have been requested to indicate their participation in their annual returns of income forms. Even with this information, it will be some time before comprehensive statistics are available.
With regard to the scheme for approved share options, which is also relatively new, I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that statistics are not available which would enable the information requested to be provided. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the most recent relevant information available on savings related share option schemes relates to the income tax year 2003 for which the cost to the Exchequer is estimated at €4.9 million. These figures are based on the level of returns received to date and are subject to adjustment on receipt of further or amended returns.
As regards employee share ownership trusts, the only relevant information available relates to the costs to companies of establishing and contributing to trusts which are allowable as deductions against profits for corporation tax purposes. Figures available to date from 1999-2000 onwards indicate that the cost of corporation tax foregone in respect of such expenditure incurred by companies could be up to a total of €32 million.
The Finance Act 2003 requires that returns of income must be made for chargeable periods commencing on or after 1 January 2004 for profits arising from commercially managed woodlands and stallion and greyhound stud fees. Information regarding the cost of these reliefs as a result of the introduction of this new requirement will become available in spring 2006.
168 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when the tax free allowance will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28470/04]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that arrangements were made to issue a certificate of tax credits and standard rate cut off point to the person mentioned by the Deputy before a copy of the parliamentary question was received by the commissioners. The Revenue Commissioners examined the matter again on receipt of the parliamentary question and a further amended certificate of tax credits and standard rate cut off point will issue to the taxpayer in the coming days, incorporating an adjustment to assess the correct amount of taxable social welfare income.
169 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress that has been made in the provision of broadband access; when broadband access will be made available at locations (details supplied); if there are plans to bring broadband to other areas in Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28234/04]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by ComReg, the Commission for Communications Regulation. Recognising that the private sector companies have been slow to invest in the provision of the necessary infrastructure in many areas, the Government set aside an indicative €200 million under the national development plan for infrastructure investment under the regional broadband programme that will enable the provision of broadband services by the private sector.
Under the first phase of the programme 26 metropolitan area networks, MANs, are being built in association with the local authorities. The MANs are being managed for the State on an open-access basis by E-Net, who have been awarded the services concession contract. Under the second phase of the programme, MANs are being built in 92 towns with a population of 1,500 and over. Grant agreements with the local authorities are being drawn up in respect of the first 44 and work is expected to begin by the end of the year.
Nenagh is included in the next phase of the rollout and calls for proposals in respect of a further 50 towns, including Roscrea, Templemore and Borrisoleigh, will issue in the New Year. Full details of the broadband rollout programme can be found on my Department's website, www.dcmnr.gov.ie, and full details of the service providers offering broadband services in County Tipperary may be found on www.broadband.gov.ie.
170 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will make arrangements for the automation of post offices at Grange, Clonmel, Newcastle, Clonoulty, Rossmore and Hollyford, County Tipperary, to ensure the continuation of vibrant village communities and to stop the closure by stealth and starvation of resources of these village post offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28277/04]
Regarding the automation of the post office network, An Post bears a statutory obligation to be financially self sufficient and to conduct its affairs in such a manner as to minimise costs to its customers. The company's programme of automation for certain post offices was completed in 1997. It is, therefore, only in exceptional circumstances such as an existing automated office closing and its equipment being transferred to a suitable neighbouring location which transacts significant volumes of welfare business that offices are automated. The automated network accounts for over 95% of An Post's counter business. This level of automated coverage is considered by An Post to be extremely comprehensive by any objective standard.
Given the minimal business volumes and small customer base of the remaining non-automated post offices and the prohibitively high costs, both capital and ongoing, of automating them, An Post advises me that it has no plans to increase the number of automated offices. That decision is entirely a commercial operational matter for the company.
The Government is committed to a viable and widespread rural post office network. However, consideration must be given to the current climate in which An Post is operating, bearing in mind the serious operational losses the company has suffered and the measures that need to be implemented if the company is to reverse its current situation.
171 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will quantify the significant capacity shortfall identified by his Department at the national ports conference at Kinsale on 24 September 2004; the capacity shortfall by reference to each of the commercial ports operating in the State; his measures for dealing with this shortfall over the medium term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28300/04]
172 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if there is an urgent need for increased capacity at commercial ports here in the context of evidence of capacity shortfall; his views on the way in which such capacity deficits can be addressed; his further views on the period within which capacity can be increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28301/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 171 and 172 together.
My Department has drafted a comprehensive ports policy statement, which, subject to Government approval, I intend to publish in the near future. One of the major policy areas addressed by the policy statement will be how to meet the predicted deficit in seaport capacity.
My Department has commissioned independent consultants, Baxter Eadie Limited, to prepare a series of reports on seaport capacity and future projected capacity needs. Earlier this year, Baxter Eadie Limited prepared a desk study update in order to identify the effect Ireland's changing economic circumstances has had on projected capacity needs at the seaports. The study takes into account current economic growth projections and looks at capacity up to 2014.
Looking to 2014, the study found that traffic is expected to grow by 16.2 million tonnes, 35% more than the tonnage handled in 2003, while growth in capacity over the same period is projected at a low level, approximately 1% over the period. These projections are based on known changes which have full approval for implementation and do not include other plans for infrastructure improvements. A capacity shortfall of 12.2 million tonnes is projected by 2014. The consultants state the situation warrants decisions and further action to avoid increasing delays and congestion in ports, particularly for unit load cargos. My Department recognises that the study by Baxter Eadie Limited is necessarily an inexact exercise, the implications of which will need to be checked against experience in each of the ports.
The Deputy has asked for details of the projected capacity shortfall by reference to each of the commercial ports. However, I do not intend to release details relating to individual ports, as the work by Baxter Eadie Limited is based, in part, on commercially sensitive information provided in confidence by the ports. In the context of the ports policy statement, I will recommend to the Government that a policy framework should be put in place to ensure capacity needs are identified, planned and progressed in a co-ordinated manner.
173 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28375/04]
The RAPID programme is designed to ensure priority is given under national development plan schemes administered by Departments and State agencies to certain disadvantaged areas. There is no specific funding within my Department's budget in respect of the RAPID programme. However, projects which are prioritised under the RAPID programme and which are the subject of applications under NDP schemes administered by my Department would be eligible for funding for such schemes provided within my Department's budget.
It has not been possible in the time available to identify and assemble all the relevant information as requested by the Deputy. Information on projects which are of relevance to my Department is being collated in conjunction with Area Development Management Ltd., ADM, and the State agencies under the aegis of my Department and will be forwarded to the Deputy as early as possible.
174 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if a survey has been carried out in regard to fishing stocks on the Barrow River; the results of such a survey; the results in regard to the salmon stock; the funding available to angling clubs to restock the river; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28414/04]
Under the Fisheries Acts, primary responsibility for the conservation, protection and management of inland fisheries stocks rests with the local fisheries board, in this case the Southern Regional Fisheries Board. I am advised by the chief executive officer of the board that a report was commissioned by the board in 2001 on Angling Along the Barrow Navigation, which recorded a total of 510 salmon over the 17 km of river surveyed. The chief executive officer also advises that the board carried out a fish stock assessment on the River Barrow in 2002. Both of these reports were made widely available by the board at the time and I have asked the chief executive officer to ensure copies are forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
I am further advised by the chief executive officer that in 2004 the Southern Regional Fisheries Board, in co-operation with the Central Fisheries Board, has been facilitating a lamprey survey of the River Barrow and a survey of fish stocks affected by the ESB station at Great Island. According to him, these survey results are being compiled and are expected to be issued in early 2005.
I am informed by the chief executive officer that the Southern Regional Fisheries Board urges restraint with restocking programmes that could damage or impair native species on the River Barrow. The board considers that there is no evidence that a salmon restocking programme is needed for the River Barrow.
175 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has raised with the UK authorities the issue of suicides of Irish persons in the United Kingdom since 1999; the number of persons who died by suicide; and the prisons at which these took place. [28312/04]
My Department, through the Irish ambassador in London, made strong representations to the prison authorities in London following the deaths of seven people, of Irish nationality or of Irish descent, between 1998 and 2002 in HMP Brixton. Subsequently, the governor of HMP Wandsworth was asked to conduct a review of all non-natural deaths in custody in HMP Brixton from 1998 onwards.
The review team published its findings, known as the Heavens report, in June 2003. The report concluded, inter alia, that, in some of these cases, policies and procedures were not properly carried out and that, in some instances, actions were taken that were not in accordance with the prison’s suicide prevention policy. It also noted there was no evidence to indicate that any of these deaths was as a result of prejudice against the men because of their Irish nationality or descent.
Shortly after the publication of the report, a new prison governor was appointed at Brixton drawn from the prisons services inspectorate. Following the appointment, an officer from the embassy met the governor and the director general of the prison services and was assured that both were committed to the implementation of the recommendations of the report. Since then, the embassy has had regular contacts with the new governor and his staff about the report and the implementation of its recommendations as well as other prison matters. The Irish ambassador has also met the relatives and friends of the people involved to discuss the findings of the report.
Since the report's publication, the embassy has not been notified of further deaths of Irish citizens in HMP Brixton but I assure the Deputy that my Department, through the embassy, will continue to monitor the situation closely.
176 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28376/04]
The RAPID programme is a focused initiative by Government to frontload national development plan funding and improve the delivery of services in the 45 most disadvantaged areas in the country. As no proposals from the areas in question have fallen within the remit of the Department of Foreign Affairs, there has been no funding allocated by my Department under this programme.
177 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has received a response directly or through the Irish Embassy in London from the Foreign Office or the Home Office, relating to the detention of an Irish singer-songwriter who was detained at Holyhead under the Prevention of Terrorism Act 2000; if he has received reassurances in line with his request; if an apology has been offered; if an agreement has been reached regarding such matters in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28426/04]
The Home Office responded on 1 November to the initial complaint made through the Irish Embassy, London. This response has been passed to the Irish citizen in question, whom my officials met on 9 November. As the Deputy will understand, citizens have a right to expect that the substance of their communication with my Department on such matters will be maintained in confidence and therefore, against this background, I will not comment further on the detail of the case at this stage.
This case and the issues it gives rise to regarding the operation of the Terrorism Act 2000 and its effects on Irish citizens moving within the common travel area are matters of ongoing discussion and consideration between my Department, our embassy in London and the British authorities.
178 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will use his power and influence to advance the case for a Palestinian state. [28436/04]
The Government believes that the best way to bring about a Palestinian state is through a peaceful solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. The Government, together with our EU partners, has consistently worked for a negotiated end to the conflict, leading to a viable, contiguous, sovereign and independent Palestinian state existing side by side in peace with Israel. As Minister for Foreign Affairs, I will work resolutely for this end.
The Government has expressed its position in the UN and in other international fora, most recently through my predecessor's address to the UN General Assembly on 22 September 2004, as well as during our time on the Security Council.
At the European Council on 5 November, which I attended with the Taoiseach, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to the two state solution as laid out in the quartet road map and stated its objective of relaunching a meaningful political process of negotiations. In particular, the Government strongly supports the Council's decision to endorse a short-term programme of action in the fields of security, reforms, elections and the economy which was proposed by High Representative Solana, and the Council's invitation to the high representative to conduct consultations with the parties and the quartet on how these political objectives can be realised, with a view to placing these proposals within a broader political perspective.
179 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will develop the relationship between the Cuban people and Ireland. [28437/04]
Relations between Ireland and Cuba have developed in recent years, particularly since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1999. Our ambassador in Mexico City is accredited to Cuba. In 2001, Cuba established a resident embassy in Dublin, headed at chargé d’affaires level and with its ambassador to Ireland resident in London. The chargé d’affaires has been extremely active in seeking to promote links between the two countries based, inter alia, on people to people contact and cultural activities. Many Irish people have visited Cuba in recent years. I welcome these developments and would certainly wish to see the bilateral relationship between Ireland and Cuba develop further.
As regards the US economic embargo on Cuba, the Government, in common with our partners in the European Union, believes that it seriously hampers the economic development of Cuba and negatively affects all of its people. We reject unilateral measures against Cuba which are contrary to commonly accepted rules of international trade. On 28 October 2004 in the United Nations General Assembly, Ireland and our EU partners again voted in favour of the annual Cuban tabled resolution, entitled the Necessity of ending the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the United States of America against Cuba.
Unfortunately, the ongoing large scale violation of human rights in Cuba and the unacceptable attitude of the Cuban Government towards the resident EU embassies in Havana are a serious impediment to the further development of relations with Cuba and its people. Large numbers of prisoners of conscience are still in detention in Cuba and its government continues to refuse to co-operate fully with the personal representative of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. A recent report by the NGO, Reporters without Borders, ranked Cuba in second last place worldwide for press freedom.
On 14 June 2004, during the Irish Presidency of the EU, the General Affairs and External Relations Council reaffirmed the validity of the 1996 common position on Cuba, following the fourteenth evaluation of that position, and reiterated that constructive engagement remains the basis of the EU's policy towards Cuba. The Council also emphasised the importance which the Union attaches to dialogue in order to produce tangible results in the political, economic and civil rights and co-operation spheres, and made clear that the EU remains open to resuming such dialogue with Cuba.
The above remains the position of the Government and of our EU partners. Finally, I again urge the Cuban Government to release prisoners of conscience and to respect internationally acknowledged principles and practices in relations with EU missions in Havana so that dialogue can be resumed. I have no doubt but that such steps by the Cuban Government would impact positively on the next evaluation of the EU common position on Cuba.
180 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding persons (details supplied); and if and when they will be returned safely to Ireland. [28438/04]
As the Deputy will be aware, following the decision in the case by Judge Acosta on 26 April 2004, the Office of the Prosecutor General in Colombia lodged an appeal against the verdict which acquitted the three men on the principal charge of providing training for terrorists. That appeal is currently being considered by a panel of judges and their decision is awaited.
Pending the outcome of the appeal, the three men have left the prison in Bogotá. However, the appeal judges ruled that they must remain in Colombia until the appeal is decided. In a letter to the Taoiseach last July, in response to the representations made by the Taoiseach at his meeting with President Uribe on 29 May in Guadalajara, the president indicated that he was hopeful of an early decision in the appeal but he also emphasised that he could not guarantee this because of the independence of the judiciary in Colombia.
In the past week, I have written to Foreign Minister Barco to again stress to her the importance of an early decision in the appeal. When she met my predecessor at the United Nations in New York last September, she indicated that she shared our wish for an early decision and, while emphasising the independence of the courts in Colombia, was hopeful that the appeal would be concluded some time in the autumn.
181 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if there are grants or funding available for a golf club to develop existing facilities and to protect current boundaries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28256/04]
The national lottery funded sports capital programme 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. Under the 2004 sports capital programme I allocated €61 million in respect of 738 projects.
Applications under the programme are assessed in accordance with a very detailed set of guidelines, terms and conditions. While it is open to golf clubs to apply for funding under the programme in respect of the development of facilities, funding for golf clubs would not generally be regarded as a priority under the programme and no golf club benefited under the 2004 programme. I will make an announcement shortly about the timetable for submission of applications for grants under the 2005 sports capital programme.
From a tourism perspective, the only source of grant support generally available for the development of tourism capital projects is the tourism product development scheme. This scheme, which is funded under the European regional development fund, supports investment in tourism product over the period of the National Development Plan 2000-06 and is administered by Fáilte Ireland.
182 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28377/04]
There is no specific funding available in my Department for distribution under the revitalising areas through planning, investment and development, RAPID, programme. Targeted areas are, however, prioritised for investment and development under the national lottery funded sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department. The programme allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country towards the provision of sport and recreational facilities.
One of the programme's four stated main objectives is the prioritisation of the needs of disadvantaged areas in the provision of facilities. Prior to 2003, disadvantaged areas under the programme were those, which were designated by Government for special support through the regional operational programmes of the national development plan, that is, areas supported by area partnership companies as designated by Area Development Management, ADM, Limited. RAPID areas came within this definition but were not classified or designated separately for the sports capital programme.
For the 2003 sports capital programme, following consultation with the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, it was decided disadvantaged areas under the programme would be those designated by Government for special support through the schemes administered by the Department, namely RAPID 1, RAPID 2, local drugs task force areas and CLÁR. Applications located in such areas received priority in the assessment process, provided that they met the basic eligibility criteria for the programme as highlighted in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. Applications from RAPID areas which were eligible for assessment and which were endorsed by their local area implementation team, AIT, received greater priority in the assessment than other applications, even other disadvantaged ones.
A total of €7.6 million was allocated to 71 projects located in RAPID areas under the 2003 sports capital programme, while, under the 2004 programme, for which the same disadvantaged designation was used, a total of €10.5 million was allocated to 100 projects. In addition, under the 2004 sports capital programme, those projects allocated grants which were located in RAPID areas and endorsed by their AIT received additional top-up funding from my colleague the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív, amounting to €2.2 million. The improved targeting of RAPID projects under the sports capital programme is regularly praised by the RAPID national monitoring committee.
Under the local authority swimming pool programme, which is also administered by my Department, the funding allocated to swimming pool projects located in RAPID areas since the inception of the RAPID programme in 2001 is as follows:
|
€ |
|
|
Ballinasloe |
3,809,214 |
|
Ballymun, Dublin |
3,809,214 |
|
Churchfield, Cork City |
3,809,214 |
|
Drogheda |
3,809,214 |
|
Finglas, Dublin |
3,809,214 |
|
Tralee Aquadome |
86,400 |
|
Tralee Sports Centre |
3,809,214 |
|
Clonmel |
1,641,934 |
|
Tuam |
3,809,214 |
|
Youghal |
3,809,214 |
|
Total paid to date |
32,202,046 |
183 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the meetings he has had with Tourism Ireland and the national sporting bodies in regard to the selection of Ireland as a venue for international events; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28400/04]
Since taking up office, I have not had specific meetings with representatives of the national sporting bodies or the State tourism agencies in regard to the selection of Ireland as a venue for international events.
Fáilte Ireland's international sports tourism initiative was launched in January 2000 with a view to supporting efforts to attract major international sporting events with tourism potential to Ireland. Hosting major international sporting events has the potential to both enhance the image of Ireland as a desirable holiday destination and at the same time to generate tourism revenue as a consequence of the valuable exposure provided by media and television coverage associated with the sponsorship of such events. The administration of the initiative is a day to day matter for Fáilte Ireland.
184 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of meetings he has had with the Minister for Transport about the call by the national tourism strategy group in regard to the fast turnaround facilities at Dublin Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28404/04]
I outlined for the House, in response to Parliamentary Question No 25435/04 on 20 October 2004, the approach that is being taken to address the recommendation of the tourism policy review group on fast turnaround facilities at Dublin Airport.
As the Deputy is aware, ministerial responsibility for aviation matters rests with my colleague, the Minister for Transport, who has asked the new Dublin Airport Authority, which took office on 1 October 2004, to give priority to addressing capacity requirements at Dublin Airport, including providing additional facilities for the fast turnaround of aircraft.
I have kept in contact with the Minister for Transport about the transport recommendations contained in the report and, in that context, it is my intention to contact the new Minister for Transport to discuss these issues in the near future.
185 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of theatres and art centres opened by local authorities and funded by the capital grants section of his Department in each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28405/04]
My Department's ACCESS scheme provides for capital grant aid to 44 arts and culture projects around the country, including 17 which are directly promoted by local authorities. These grants were approved in 2001. One of these projects has drawn down its full grant allocation and another five are at the final stage of grant draw down. The remaining projects are at differing stages of completion. The opening of these facilities is a matter for each local authority.
186 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his plans to visit the US to meet with officials of the major film companies; when the visit is planned; the companies he will meet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28407/04]
I intend to visit the United States early in 2005 to meet with key players in the film industry there, in order to promote Ireland as a location for film production. Details have not been decided as yet but decisions regarding the nature and content of the visit will be taken in close consultation with the Irish Film Board.
187 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the funding allocated for the development of home based film productions in each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28408/04]
The Irish Film Board, funded by my Department but independent of it on an operational basis, is responsible on a day to day basis for promoting the Irish film sector. The amounts made available to the board for the support of film projects over the past three years were as follows: 2002 —€12.265 million; 2003 —€10.768 million; and 2004 —€11.845 million.
188 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the discussions he has had in the past six months with his EU counterparts regarding the development of the film industry in the EU; the proposals resulting from such meetings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28409/04]
I chaired the European Union Council formation on education, youth and culture on 27 May 2004. At that meeting there was an exchange of views on the relevant elements of a communication from the Commission, Making Citizenship Work: fostering European culture and diversity through programmes for youth, culture, audiovisual and civic participation.
Since then, the Commission has presented a proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning a new programme of support for the European audiovisual sector for 2007 to 2013. The audiovisual working group, which operates under the auspices of the Council of Ministers of Education, Youth and Culture, including the audiovisual area, has been discussing this proposal. Under the Dutch Presidency since July this year, five meetings of this group have been held. This proposal will be discussed at the forthcoming ministerial Council of 16 November.
189 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of meetings he has had with the Olympic Council of Ireland since the Athens Olympics; the results of such meetings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28410/04]
I have had no formal meeting with the Olympic Council of Ireland since the Athens Olympics, although I had discussions with the President of the Olympic Council of Ireland relating to the performance of the Irish team at the Athens Olympics.
As the Deputy is aware, the Irish Sports Council, as the statutory agency for the promotion and development of sport in Ireland, is responsible, in partnership with both the Olympic Council of Ireland, the Paralympic Council of Ireland, and the relevant national governing bodies of sport, for all matters relating to the preparation and participation of Irish competitors at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Irish Sports Council has initiated a review of Team Ireland's participation in this year's Olympic and Paralympic Games. The review involves questionnaires, one-to-one meetings with the athletes, support personnel, coaches and performance directors. The aim of the review is to produce an objective assessment of the preparation and performance of the Irish teams at the Athens Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2004, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of all aspects of the programmes throughout the four year cycle, with a view to making recommendations regarding the development of a programme for Beijing in 2008.
Wharton Consulting, a leading consultancy firm based in Britain, is conducting the review under the direction of a steering committee established by the Irish Sports Council and on which my Department is represented. The Olympic Council of Ireland and the Paralympic Council of Ireland are also represented on this committee. Wharton Consulting was selected by the Irish Sports Council following a public tender process and has considerable experience working with sporting organisations in England, including Sport England. The review is due for completion by 1 December 2004 and it is the intention of the Irish Sports Council to publish the report in due course.
190 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the meetings he has had or proposes to have with the FAI in regard to its difficulties; the results of such meetings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28411/04]
In response to the recent developments within the Football Association of Ireland which resulted in the departure of the chief executive officer of the association, I requested officials of the FAI to meet with me at my office on 3 November 2004 to brief me on developments.
At the meeting, I reiterated to the FAI officials in attendance that the Government looks to the association to become a dependable, effective and efficient organisation capable of accepting and discharging its responsibilities with regard to projects to which the Government has committed substantial support from public funds. These include the redevelopment of Lansdowne Road stadium, the development of a sports campus at Abbotstown, funding under the sports capital programme for soccer clubs at national, regional and local levels and the funding provided to the association by the Irish Sports Council.
I fully support the delivery of the reform agenda mapped out in the Genesis report and I have indicated to the FAI that the positions of chief executive and director of finance and administration as outlined in the Genesis report should be publicly advertised by the end of this year. In addition, I have appointed my own representative to the joint Irish Sports Council-FAI liaison group which is overseeing the reform process. I have also asked the FAI to maintain regular contact with me and my Department on all matters affecting the development of the association.
191 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28378/04]
My Department's contribution to the RAPID programme has been delivered mainly through the prioritisation of existing FÁS programmes. Support provided by FÁS has been primarily through FÁS community services, where the community employment programme is the major element and where RAPID areas continue to be prioritised, FÁS employment services, the local employment services, and FÁS training services.
The RAPID concept is to co-ordinate the functions of different agencies. It has not attracted departmental funding per se. However, in 2004 the estimated value of the FÁS community employment activities associated with RAPID areas and which are funded from FÁS existing resources will be in the region of €60 million.
192 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he, the IDA and the local authority will investigate the possible purchase of a section of land for a sports club (details supplied) in County Kildare. [28424/04]
The management of IDA Ireland's industrial property portfolio is a day to day operational matter for the agency and not one in which I have a direct function.
From inquires I have made of the agency I understand that IDA Ireland agreed in principle to sell a 2.5 hectare site at Monasterevin, County Kildare, to Kildare County Council in April 2003. The site is part of a transaction involving the disposal of IDA lands at Kildare Town, Monasterevin and Castledermot.
The transaction was approved by the IDA Ireland board on the basis that the council would use the land to encourage industrial development activities in line with the agency's statutory remit. As discussions are ongoing between the agency and the county council, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further.
193 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding a person (details supplied) employed by an Irish subsidiary of a company in regard to employment legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28733/04]
It would appear from the information supplied with the question, that the person concerned is a posted worker within the meaning of Directive 96/71/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 1996 concerning the posting of workers in the framework of the provision of services.
Under this directive a posted worker is a worker who, for a limited period, carries out his or her work in the territory of a member state other than the state in which he normally works. The directive applies, inter alia, to undertakings that post workers to an establishment or to an undertaking owned by the group in the territory of a member state, provided there is an employment relationship between the undertaking making the posting and the worker during the period of posting.
The above directive was transposed into Irish law by section 20 of the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001. The result of this transposition is that posted workers such as the person concerned are covered by all employee protection legislation on the Statute Book in the State.
Even if the person concerned is not a posted worker, he or she would still be covered by all employee protection legislation, because section 20 of the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001 also provides that all such legislation applies to a person, irrespective of his or her nationality or place of residence, who (i) has entered into a contract of employment that provides for his or her being employed in the State, and (ii) works in the State under a contract of employment.
195 Mr. English asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Meath is being penalised in the one-parent family payment for rental income that is not being received by them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28255/04]
The person concerned is currently in receipt of one parent family, widowed person's, payment at the weekly rate of €82.30 and a child dependent allowance payment of €19.30 per week.
One parent family payment is a means tested payment and all income is assessable as means. When assessing a person's means, account must be taken of any savings, investments, property or income which the person may have. It was decided on 3 May 2002 that the person concerned was entitled to a reduced rate one parent family, widowed person's, payment, based on means of €60 per week derived from the letting of a premises adjacent to his family home. This decision was subsequently appealed and the deciding officer's decision was upheld by an appeals officer in November of 2002.
Representations were subsequently received from the Deputy in March of 2004 to the effect that the person concerned was not in receipt of rental income from the premises, as his son was now in receipt of the relevant income.
However, where a person deprives himself of income, in order to qualify for an increase in payment, the legislation provides that the income foregone continues to be assessed as means. Following further investigation by a local officer, the application for an increase was disallowed by a deciding officer on 23 October 2004, as the income from the premises continues to be assessed as means. The person concerned was notified of this decision and of his right of appeal.
Under social welfare legislation, decisions on claims are made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
196 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will consider introducing a voluntary social insurance scheme for disability benefit for persons who have spent the bulk of their working life as employees and who move to self employment status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28264/04]
The social insurance system in Ireland is generally based on compulsory paid PRSI contributions which establish entitlement to a range of contingency based payments. The contributions to be paid are determined by reference to the nature of work.
Employees and their employers generally pay contributions at PRSI class A and self employed workers pay class S contributions. The contribution paid can determine the range of benefits and pensions to which contributors can build up entitlement.
Self employed workers have been compulsorily insurable under the Social Welfare Acts since 1988 and, subject to their having sufficient contributions, they are eligible for the following payments: widow's or widower's contributory pension: orphan's contributory allowance; old age contributory pension; maternity benefit; adoptive benefit; and bereavement grant. When social insurance for the self employed was introduced, coverage for short-term insurance based contingencies including sickness were excluded, given the difficulties of applying these to self-employed workers and the financial implications associated with this.
The range of benefits to which different groups of workers may establish entitlement reflects the risks associated with the nature of their work and this is reflected in the rate of contributions payable. Self employed workers pay PRSI class S contributions at a rate of 3% and are potentially eligible for a narrower range of benefits than employees who, together with their employers, are potentially liable for a total contribution of 14.05%, which is payable at PRSI class A. An extension of short-term benefits to self employed contributors, as well as having significant administrative implications, would necessitate an increase in the rate of PRSI class S contribution to fund it.
It might be noted that where employees move into self employment they may retain entitlement to short term benefits, such as disability benefit, for a period up to two years after their employment status has changed. This reflects the manner in which qualification for social insurance benefits is calculated. Providing the required number of contributions were paid in the governing contribution year, which is the second last complete tax year before a benefit is claimed, and all other qualification conditions are fulfilled, a person can maintain their entitlement to short-term benefits for the initial period of self employment. In this way a self employed worker, who previously worked as an employee, is cushioned against the risk of illness during the early periods of self employment.
The social insurance system contains provisions for voluntary contributions so as to maintain coverage for some long-term benefits. A worker who is under the age of 66 years who ceases to be covered by compulsory PRSI may opt to become a voluntary contributor, provided certain conditions are satisfied.
Voluntary contributions continue to provide cover for certain long-term benefits such as pensions. These contributions do not, however, give cover for other short term benefits such as unemployment, disability or treatment benefit reflecting their voluntary nature and the rate at which they are collected.
There are no plans at present to extend short-term benefits to self employed persons. Any such proposal would have both administrative and financial implications and would have to be considered in a budgetary context.
197 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will rescind the terms of office notice 02/04 of 28 January 2004, job initiative, secondary benefits, in order that persons on the minimum payment for the jobs initiative scheme can qualify for the fuel and smokeless fuel allowances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28274/04]
The job initiative programme is an initiative which is administered by FÁS, under the aegis of the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment. Participants on the job initiative programme may qualify for payment of the fuel and smokeless fuel allowances subject to a weekly gross household income limit of €317.43 per week. In calculating the household income, account is taken of PRSI contributions and reasonable travelling expenses incurred.
The minimum payment to job initiative participants was increased to €318.40 from 1 January 2004, thereby taking it above the limit for continued payment of the fuel allowance. The income limit of €317.43 is kept under review and any changes would have to be considered in a budgetary context.
199 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding the carer’s allowance application submitted by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and when they can expect to receive approval for it. [28449/04]
The person concerned applied for carer's allowance on 8 October 2004. An interim decision issued to her on 29 October, 2004 refusing her application on the grounds that full-time care and attention was not required in this case. She has been afforded the opportunity to submit to my Department any further medical evidence for review. A formal decision will then be made and she will be notified directly of the outcome.
Under social welfare legislation, decisions on claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
200 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of countries with which Ireland currently has bilateral social welfare agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28457/04]
Ireland has concluded bilateral social security agreements with seven countries, namely, Austria, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the USA and Switzerland. Ireland also entered into a bilateral understanding with Quebec on 1 October 1994. All of these agreements are currently in operation. A further agreement has been negotiated with the Republic of Korea and full ratification of this agreement is expected shortly.
The main purpose of these agreements is to protect the social security pension rights of workers who have worked both in Ireland and the other country to which the agreements apply. The bilateral agreements mainly provide for the adding together of periods of insurance and, where appropriate, periods treated as equivalent to periods of insurance completed in Ireland and the other country involved, for the purposes of calculating and awarding pensions. These pensions can also be paid to those residing in the territory of the other country.
201 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will give favourable consideration to increasing family income supplement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28458/04]
Family income supplement, FIS, is designed to provide cash support for employees on low earnings with families and thereby preserve the incentive to remain in employment in circumstances where the employee might only be marginally better off than if he or she were claiming other social welfare payments.
The range of improvements to the family income supplement scheme instituted in recent years, including the assessment of FIS on the basis of net rather than gross income and the progressive increases in the income limits, have made it easier for lower income households to qualify under the scheme.
Budget 2004 provided for further increases in the FIS income limits with effect from January 2004. These increases raised the weekly income limits by €28 at each point, adding an extra €16.80 to the payments of most existing FIS recipients. The minimum FIS weekly payment was also increased by €7 from €13 to €20. The average weekly payment now stands at €76.83 per week, with a total of 14,040 families receiving a supplement under the scheme.
The question of further improvements to the income thresholds is a matter for consideration in a budgetary context, having regard to available resources and Government commitments.
202 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the extent to which he intends to increase pensions for widows and widowers in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28459/04]
In recent years, the Government has, apart from significant increases in rates of payments, introduced a number of specific measures to benefit widows and widowers. In 2000, the widowed parent grant was introduced to provide additional assistance to those with dependent children in the difficult time following a bereavement. The grant is currently valued at €2,700 and is paid in addition to the usual after death payments.
Increases in the rates of child benefit are also of benefit to widows and widowers with children. Since 1997, the monthly rates of child benefit have been increased dramatically. Since April, child benefit payments are €131.60 per month for each of the first and second children and €165.30 per month for the third and subsequent children.
With regard to those who are over 66 years of age, the Government had committed to bringing their rate of payment into line with that of the old age contributory pension. This was achieved through a series of special increases in recent budgets and the process was completed in budget 2004. The maximum rate of both old age and widow's and widower's contributory pension is now €167.30 per week. This group of widows and widowers is also benefiting from the changes in the free schemes announced over a number of budgets.
Under these arrangements, all persons aged over 70 years of age are now entitled to the full range of schemes regardless of their means or household composition. The provisions for widows and widowers under the social welfare code will be kept under review in a budgetary context.
207 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will consider extending the free schemes to younger widows or widowers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28464/04]
The household benefits package of schemes, which comprises the electricity, gas allowances, telephone allowance and television licence schemes, is generally available to people living permanently in the State, aged 66 years or over, who are in receipt of a social welfare type payment or who fulfil a means test.
The package is also available to carers and people with disabilities under the age of 66 years who are in receipt of certain welfare type payments such as invalidity pension and disability allowance. People aged over 70 years of age can qualify regardless of their income or household composition. The free travel scheme is available to all people living in the State aged 66 years, or over, to all carers in receipt of carer's allowance and to carers of people in receipt of constant attendance or prescribed relative's allowance. It is also available to certain people with disabilities.
Widows and widowers aged from 60 to 65 years whose late spouses had been in receipt of the household benefit package or free travel retain that entitlement to ensure that those households do not suffer a loss of entitlements following the death of the spouse. A range of proposals, including that of the Deputy, has been made to extend the free schemes to other groups. These are kept under review in the context of the objectives of the scheme and budgetary resources.
208 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons on back to work allowance in each of the past three years; the extent to which he will improve the scheme in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28465/04]
The back to work allowance scheme, which was introduced in September 1993, is part of my Department's programme of initiatives designed to assist long-term unemployed people, lone parents and other social welfare recipients to return to the active labour force. There are two strands to the scheme, namely, the back to work enterprise allowance for self employment and the back to work allowance for employees.
The number of recipients at the end of the years 2001, 2002 and 2003 are shown in the tabular statement following:
|
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
|
|
Self Employed |
15,973 |
13,510 |
9,873 |
|
Employees |
16,218 |
11,566 |
7,197 |
|
Total: |
32,191 |
25,076 |
17,070 |
The allowance was introduced at a time when long-term unemployment stood at 8.9%. In its early years, the scheme proved very effective in helping people who had been long-term unemployed to return to the labour force. However, changes in labour market conditions since the mid-1990s has reduced the need for the scheme. This is illustrated by the drop in numbers availing of it in recent years.
At present there are 12,097 participants in the scheme, compared to 39,343 in October 2000 when the scheme reached its peak. The scheme was reviewed in 2002 in the light of economic and labour market changes and, in particular, the drop in unemployment levels since the introduction of the scheme in 1993. This review also took account of an evaluation of the scheme by independent consultants. They recommended that the scheme should be restructured in light of the changes in the labour market. In particular, the review recommended that the scheme be refocused on the longer-term unemployed, that the non-financial supports be enhanced and that the overall numbers on the scheme be reduced.
In January 2003, therefore, the qualifying period for persons on unemployment benefit or assistance was increased to five years. Recipients of other social welfare qualifying payments were not affected by the change. The scheme is continually monitored to ensure its relevance to current labour market and economic conditions. It was recognised that there was some difficulty being experienced by persons wishing to enter self employment after five years attachment to the live register. Therefore, in budget 2004, the qualifying period for access to the self-employed strand of the scheme was reduced to three years.
From March 2004, persons in receipt of unemployment benefit or assistance accessing the self employed strand of the scheme only require three years on their unemployment payment to qualify for participation in the scheme. I will continue to monitor the scheme to ensure that it continues to assist those furthest from the labour market to gain a foothold into sustainable employment or self-employment and will therefore keep the scheme under review.
209 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the extent to which ophthalmic and dental benefits are readily accessible to those with the required contributions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28466/04]
Dental and optical benefit is provided to insured workers through panels of dentists and opticians who enter into agreements with my Department to provide treatments under the scheme on a contract basis and at fees specified in the agreements. There are 1,329 dentists on the dental panel and 355 opticians on the optical panel. Under these arrangements and with limited exceptions, treatments are provided to the patients either free of charge or at a reduced fee and the Department pays the balance of the cost directly to the dentist or optician at the agreed rates.
Access to optical and dental benefit is readily available to insured people and their dependent spouses who satisfy the contribution conditions. Both optical and dental panellists can contact my Department using a lo-call service, on behalf of the insured person, and obtain immediate confirmation regarding a person's entitlement to treatment benefits. The panellist can also contact my Department by fax and a reply will be given within 24 hours. If the person has the required contributions, treatment can commence immediately.
Some panellists continue to seek written approval prior to commencing treatment. A written decision issues in these cases within three weeks to the insured person and the panellist. My Department is anxious to develop and improve its communication services to customers and to minimise waiting times wherever possible. In this regard the use of modern technology such as e-mail and Internet services are currently being examined as additional methods of communication. If the Deputy is aware of any particular difficulties, I would be glad to look into them.
210 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Transport if he intends recruiting driving testers; the number of testers he intends employing and the period of employment; the qualifications he will require of applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28310/04]
There are seven driver tester vacancies and one contract driver tester vacancy at present. My Department is in discussions with the Department of Finance with a view to filling all existing vacancies in this area definitively. We hope to fill seven of these posts on a permanent basis and this will in turn necessitate the employment of additional driver testers on contract.
The qualifications and skills required of applicants include a good general education; a satisfactory knowledge of the rules of the road, road procedures and the law relating to road traffic in so far as it concerns the driver of a mechanically propelled vehicle; at least five years' satisfactory driving experience within the last seven years; a general understanding of the working of mechanically propelled vehicles; report writing skills with particular reference to accuracy, clarity and conciseness; a clean driving licence, other than a provisional licence, valid in the State on the day of the test; and excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing and the capacity to remain calm and courteous in dealing with applicants.
211 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the details of all subsidies received by State public transport providers, specifically Irish Rail, Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus; the details of the average cost per journey resulting from these subsidies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28293/04]
Exchequer subvention of €244.98 million was paid to CIE in 2003. The allocation of this amount between the three companies by the CIE board was as follows: Irish Rail, €168.257 million; Bus Éireann, €22.856 million; and Dublin Bus, €53.867 million. I understand from CIE that in 2003, the average subvention per passenger journey for Bus Átha Cliath was €0.36, for Iarnród Éireann was €4.6 and for Bus Éireann it was €0.47.
212 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Transport the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28380/04]
As the Deputy is aware, there is no specific separate funding allocated to the RAPID programme. The RAPID programme is aimed at prioritising national development plan funding to various disadvantaged communities in large urban areas. Under the scheme, Bus Éireann introduced a new route in Cork city, the southern orbital bus service. The Department has provided funding of €735,000 to date towards the project as follows: 2002, €288,000; 2003, €235,000; and 2004 €212,000.
213 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grants available to provide landing jetties, piers or similar facilities in order to permit the development of river and canal boating facilities from his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28413/04]
Waterways Ireland, co-sponsored by my Department and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in Northern Ireland is one of the six North-South implementation bodies established under the British-Irish Agreement Act 1999. It is charged with the management, maintenance, development and restoration of the inland navigable waterway system throughout the island, principally for recreational purposes.
While Waterways Ireland itself undertakes the provision of facilities such as landing jetties and piers in order to permit the development of river and canal boating facilities, it does not offer grants to other groups or organisations for such purposes.
214 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his proposals to allow for inflation and additional costs arising from national wage agreements when allocating funding to the community partnerships; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28265/04]
215 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his proposals to restore the 19.07% reduction in funding from his Department to community partnership in the years 2002 to 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28266/04]
216 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his proposals to provide adequate resources and to introduce multi-annual funding into the community partnership sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28267/04]
217 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his proposals for the extension of the local development social inclusion programme in view of the fact that disadvantage is a pervasive issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28268/04]
218 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the community partnerships as a primary channel for tackling disadvantage in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28269/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 214, 215, 216, 217 and 218 together.
The local development social inclusion programme is managed by Area Development Management Ltd., ADM, on behalf of my Department. Following the appraisal of the plans submitted by the groups, funding for programme and administration costs is allocated to community partnerships by ADM, in the context of funding available from my Department each year. As the Deputy will be aware, Government Departments operate on the basis of funds voted annually by the Dáil. It is therefore not possible to enter into multi-annual budgeting arrangements.
While there was a reduction in the funding available for this programme in the last two years, it should be noted that the community partnerships did not experience the full extent of these reductions. In 2003, the community partnerships experienced budget reductions of between 4% and 6%. Allocations for community partnerships for 2004 compared with 2003 were reduced on average by 5%. I wish to again acknowledge the work being done by community partnerships in addressing disadvantage in their areas. There are no formal plans to extend the remit of the programme at this time.
219 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28381/04]
Proposals from RAPID plans relevant to my Department fall to be considered under the community development programme, funding for local drugs task forces, LDTF, and the young people's facilities and services fund, YPFSF. Six new community development projects in RAPID areas were prioritised since the commencement of the programme. Projects in Bluebell, Dolphin House, Inchicore, Merchants Quay-Ushers Quay, Longford town and Tipperary each received a renewable one-year contract for funding of €60,000. Approximately €3.6 million was allocated to specific projects from RAPID plans from funding available to my Department for local drugs task forces and the young people's facilities and services fund, YPFSF. A further amount of €1 million was also allocated under the premises initiative for a community drugs project.
However, it should be noted that the allocations relate only to allocations to specific projects from RAPID plans. My Department also has responsibility for the work of the 14 local drugs task forces. These were established in the areas experiencing the worst levels of drug misuse, particularly heroin, and many of them have RAPID areas within them. Over €80 million has been allocated to the task forces to implement their two rounds of local action plans. A further €12.8 million has been allocated to capital projects under the LDTF premises initiative, which is designed to meet the accommodation needs of community-based drugs projects.
In addition, approximately €75 million has been allocated to support the work of the young people's facilities and services fund in LDTF areas and four other urban centres. The main aim of the fund is to attract at risk young people in disadvantaged areas into recreational facilities and activities and divert them away from the dangers of substance misuse. RAPID communities located in these areas would benefit from this funding.
There are also currently over 100 CDP projects in RAPID areas that are receiving in excess of €9 million funding from my Department in 2004. Money is also spent under the LDSIP programme in RAPID. As the borders of the partnership are not coterminous with those of the RAPID area, it would be impossible to quantify the exact spend in RAPID areas.
This year, I secured additional dedicated funding of €4.5 million to support small-scale localised actions in RAPID areas through co-funding with the relevant Department or agency and I announced details of a number of co-funded schemes earlier this year. Funding totalling €2 million was allocated to RAPID areas under the local authority housing estate enhancement scheme, which is co-funded by my Department and the local authorities. Under the RAPID playgrounds scheme, which my Department co-funds with the Department of Health and Children, a total of €3 million was allocated to RAPID areas. In addition, my Department has provided top-up funding of €2.2 million to successful projects in RAPID areas that were endorsed by the area implementation teams under the sports capital programme 2004, which is administered by the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism.
The Deputy should also note that since the establishment of the RAPID programme, my Department has provided approximately €5 million by way of support to the local areas in the preparation and implementation of their plans and administration costs associated with the support team in ADM.
220 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of applications for the alarms for the elderly scheme received in his Department by Kildare residents for each of the past three years; if he has satisfied himself with the system of notification of the scheme for applicants; the period of time spent in processing applications; if he will report on the availability of suitable personnel to install the schemes; the funding that has been allocated to the scheme for each of the past three years; the funding that has been allocated for the advertising of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28412/04]
Voluntary groups from County Kildare submitted applications on behalf of 654 individuals since 2002 under the scheme of community supports for older people. This figure comprises 186 individuals in 2002, 170 in 2003 and 298 in 2004. A total of €2.7 million was allocated to the scheme for the country as a whole in 2002, €2.9 million in 2003 and €2.4 million in 2004.
The scheme is advertised each year in the national daily and regional newspapers and is also advertised on my Department's website. Advertising costs for the scheme this year totalled €72,762. Contact details of interested parties are also entered on a database throughout the year and the scheme details are sent by mail shot to all those on the database once the grant scheme is officially launched. This year almost 500 groups and individuals were included in the mail shot.
The 2004 scheme of community support for older people was advertised nationwide on 29 July 2004 with a closing date of 13 September 2004. It is intended to notify the successful applicants in December.
The selection of suppliers and installers of equipment funded under the scheme is a matter for the voluntary-community groups concerned.
221 Mr. English asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a concession can be made in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28233/04]
A penalty was imposed on the person named because he did not submit an amended plan within the permitted time. He appealed the decision but the penalty was upheld by the agriculture appeals office, which is statutorily independent of my Department. The consequences of any actions by a REPS planner are a matter between the farmer concerned and the planner.
222 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a ewe premium grant has not been awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28271/04]
This decision has been appealed to the agriculture appeals office. Appeals require individual examination and are dealt with in the order in which they are received. This appeal was received on 4 October 2004 and has been assigned to an appeals officer for examination.
The appeals office has been in contact with the appellant to arrange the oral hearing that he requested. It is not expected that there will be any undue delay in dealing with this case.
223 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a suckler cow grant has been withheld from a person (details supplied) in County Galway. [28272/04]
The person named applied for premium on nine animals under the 2003 suckler cow premium scheme. Payments of €1613.88 and €403.47 issued to him on 16 October 2003 and 26 March 2004, respectively. These represent payment in full for the animals applied on. The person named is not an applicant under the 2004 suckler cow premium scheme.
224 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a suckler cow grant for 2004 has been withheld from a person (details supplied) in County Galway. [28273/04]
The person named applied for premium on 18 animals under the 2004 suckler cow premium scheme. While processing the application it was found that according to CMMS records two animals bearing tag numbers HBKJ0043K and 181895360318 were not in the ownership and possession of the herdowner on 5 April 2004, that being the date of his application. They moved into his herd on 16 April 2004 only.
The herdowner was contacted in June 2004 regarding this matter and was requested to forward any information or documentation on these animals that would assist the Department in processing his claim further. In the absence of a satisfactory reply, a decision was taken to reject the animals from his claim and to refuse payment of 2004 suckler cow premium. He was notified of this on 21 October 2004 and was given 21 days in which to seek to have this decision reviewed. There has been no reply to date to that notification.
225 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a provisional entitlement statement will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28299/04]
The person named has submitted an application for consideration under the new entrant/inheritance measure of the single payment scheme. Processing of applications under the new entrant/inheritance measure of the scheme is ongoing and the person named will be notified shortly of the decision on his application.
226 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason for the delay in replying to correspondence (details supplied) forwarded to her office; when a reply will be issued; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28304/04]
The correspondence referred to by the Deputy concerns representations made by him on behalf of an individual milk producer who incurred a super levy liability in the quota year ended on 31 March 2004.
EU and national regulations on the milk quota system specify that, where the national quota is exceeded, the overrun must be shared between those producers who contributed to the excess. The regulations do not provide for exceptions in individual cases and therefore it is not open to me to intervene in these cases.
The amount of levy payable in individual cases can, of course, be reduced by the distribution of unused quota, flexi milk, resulting from other producers not filling their individual quotas. This distribution is done on the basis of objective criteria.
My Department on a regular basis throughout the year publishes estimates of milk deliveries and the extent to which these are under or over the national quota and advises producers to keep in close touch with their co-ops/dairies in this matter.
A reply in the case concerned has been issued to the Deputy.
227 Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if farmers and exporters of live cattle will have the right to access markets in continental Europe in view of the fact that a ferry service (details supplied) between Rosslare and Cherbourg will be ending in December 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28305/04]
My Department's function relating to the transport of livestock by sea is to approve vessels based on statutory requirements regarding the protection of animal welfare. The actual provision of such services is a commercial matter.
Approval for the carriage of livestock on roll-on roll-off vessels is considered on a case by case basis, having regard to the characteristics of the individual vessel, whereas there are specific statutory requirements which apply across the board where dedicated livestock vessels are concerned. Within this framework, my Department has approved 18 dedicated livestock vessels and three roll-on roll-off vessels for the carriage of cattle since 1995 and works closely with applicant companies for approval to ensure that the conditions aboard such vessels are consistent with national and EU animal welfare requirements. Indeed, officials of my Department met with a prospective service provider last week on this matter.
The live export trade provides a valuable outlet for categories of younger animals and a degree of competition, thereby sustaining prices. My Department will continue to discharge its responsibilities in the live trade by ensuring that any such applications are dealt with in a thorough, professional and efficient manner and that our animal health status continues to allow producers to have access to markets in the EU and elsewhere.
The Government's consistent position regarding live exports has been that they provide a vital and legitimate market outlet for the livestock sector. The role of the Government in the promotion and preservation of any commercial trade is to create an environment in which it can be carried on in an economic and sustainable manner and which allows it to make the maximum possible contribution to the national economy. In the case of live exports, the preservation of the animal health status of the country, the international reputation of its veterinary certification services and the existence and application of a framework, which ensures that good standards and welfare considerations are taken into account, are all key elements. In each of these areas, our record is exemplary. Ultimately, the transport of live animals is a commercial matter and there are sufficient numbers of approved vessels to provide a service if the commercial demand exists.
228 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be awarded ewe premium. [28734/04]
Under the 2004 ewe/supplementary premium scheme the person named qualified for payment of €2,100 in respect of 75 ewes.
However, under the 2003 scheme he applied on 115 ewes. Following an inspection of his flock only 75 ewes were found leaving a shortfall of 40. Under the scheme if the difference between the number of absent ewes and the number of ewes found eligible exceeded 50% no premium could be paid for 2003. In addition, an amount equal to the amount that would have been due on the number of absent ewes had to be offset against the 2004 ewe premium. The amount was €1,170.40 in this case and, when offset against the 2004 premium of €2,100, leaves a balance of €929.96 payable for 2004. This amount will be paid shortly.
229 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a letter will be submitted to Fingal County Council outlining the status of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [28254/04]
The persons in question were initially granted permission to remain in the State in October 2001, based on parentage of an Irish born child. It is normal practice for the immigration division of my Department to issue letters relating to the status of non-nationals in the State. However it would only be issued on request. To date, no request for such a letter has been received from either the persons in question or Fingal County Council.
230 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received an application from Ballina Town Council, County Mayo, in respect of the provision of closed circuit television cameras; the number of towns in which such systems currently apply; the expenditure involved in the provision of these particular schemes; if an analysis was carried out by him on their success or otherwise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28275/04]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda CCTV advisory committee — established by the Garda Commissioner to advise on all matters relating to CCTV systems — has not received an application from Ballina Town Council for the installation of a Garda CCTV system. However, the advisory committee has received an application for a Garda CCTV system in Ballina from the chief superintendent, Mayo division. This application is being considered along with applications from other cities and towns throughout the country.
Garda CCTV systems, as aids to policing, have been introduced, to date in the following areas: Bray, Dublin city — south central, Dublin city — north central, Dundalk, Dún Laoghaire, Cork city, Limerick city and Tralee. A total of €4.881 million, including VAT, has been expended since 1997 on the supply, installation and commissioning of the above systems. In addition to the above, the following 13 locations throughout the country are set to receive town centre CCTV systems, on a phased basis, subject to the availability of funds: Athlone, Ballyfermot, Carlow, Castlebar, Clondalkin, Clonmel, Ennis, Finglas, Galway, Kilkenny, Sligo, Tallaght and Waterford.
Installation of the CCTV systems is of necessity a detailed, complex and lengthy process. The Garda authorities are giving careful consideration to a restructuring of the manner in which these Garda CCTV systems go to tender, with a view to delivering the implementation of these CCTV systems in a faster, more efficient and cost effective manner.
On the query about the success of CCTV systems, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda research unit carried out an internal evaluation of the CCTV systems in Dublin and Tralee in 1999. While the evaluation identified potential benefits of CCTV — such as reduced crime and disorder, increased detections, improved public feelings of safety, more effective deployment of police resources and improved court processing, guilty pleas — the evidence of that particular evaluation was not fully conclusive. This was mainly due to methodological difficulties, such as data limitations and a difficulty in isolating CCTV effects from other influences.
The Garda research unit is currently evaluating the effects of CCTV in three locations: Dún Laoghaire, Dundalk and Galway/Salthill. The main focus of this evaluation is on crime and detection levels before and after camera installation. Crime and detection levels are also being examined in Blackrock, County Dublin, and in Drogheda — neither of which have Garda CCTV systems — to assess general trends and possible crime displacement. Research findings will not be available for some time, as the evaluation involves the comparison of data for the 12 month periods before and after camera installation.
I am further informed that two other projects are currently underway. The Garda annual policing plan 2004 has committed the research unit to carrying out a review of the cost and benefit of extending CCTV systems to all areas with a population in excess of 7,000. In addition, the Garda annual policing plan 2003 provided for the assessment of the proactive use of CCTV systems as a means of gathering criminal intelligence. It is anticipated that both projects will be completed later this year.
231 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application for naturalisation on behalf of a person (details supplied) will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28283/04]
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 6 July 2004. The average processing time for such applications is currently 24 months and it is likely, therefore, that the application of the individual concerned will be finalised in or around July 2006. I will inform both the applicant and the Deputy as soon as I have reached a decision on the application.
232 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 80, 124 and 138 of 3 November 2004, the circumstances which would amount to a parental failure of duty towards children; if such circumstances have occurred; if so, the number of such occurrences; the way in which State authorities respond in those circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28285/04]
233 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 80, 124 and 138 of 3 November 2004, the number of occasions on which he has given a direction to a parent to bring a child out of Ireland; the grounds for such a direction; if the children in question were born here and are citizens of Ireland; the statutory or other basis in law for the issue of such directions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28286/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 232 and 233 together.
The failure of duty by parents towards their children in any particular circumstances and the action to be taken in such cases to protect the welfare of the children involved are matters for the relevant health board under the Child Care Act 1991 and not for the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Consequently, my Department does not have any statistics on such occurrences and the actions taken in such cases.
Irish born children who are Irish citizens cannot be deported so the question of their involuntary removal from the State does not arise. Notwithstanding the expectation that non-national parents being deported will voluntarily take their Irish born children with them, there are no circumstances in which I can direct such Irish children to leave the State: I have neither the power nor the desire to make such a direction. Further, I will not interfere with a decision arrived at in good faith by a non-national parent being deported who decides to leave the Irish child behind, having made arrangements that the parent considers suitable for the care of the child.
234 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application (details supplied) for a group in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28296/04]
I understand that a capital grant application for more than €750,000 was submitted by the group to my Department some time ago. The Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000 — 2006 is a seven year development programme which aims to increase the availability and quality of child care to support parents in employment, education and training. 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 and, following the mid-term review, additional funding of approximately €12 million was made available for the child care measures. This brings the total funding available for the programme to €449.3 million. This now includes an increased provision for capital developments for which €157 million has been set aside.
Since 2000, my Department, with the technical assistance of ADM Limited, has processed and I have approved 1,253 applications for capital grant assistance amounting to more than €120 million and 997 applications for staffing grant assistance totalling €103 million. Almost €45 million has been allocated for quality projects. Much of the remaining current funding is required for ongoing supports to groups providing child care services to disadvantaged families to enable them to participate in employment, education and training opportunities.
A list of outstanding capital applications is now being finalised and my Department will be writing to the applicants in early December. In the interim, it would be premature to comment further on this capital grant application.
235 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28383/04]
The RAPID, revitalising areas by planning, investment and development, programme targets the most concentrated areas of disadvantage in the State by ensuring that priority attention is given to these areas by Departments and State agencies dealing with disadvantage and local development in the widest sense.
The RAPID programme selected 45 target areas in cities and towns for priority investment and frontloading of funding under the National Development Plan 2000 — 2006, NDP. No dedicated departmental financial allocations have been established to provide potential funding for RAPID proposals as such. However, my Department decides on approving funding for RAPID proposals within the context of existing allocations across Votes under my Department's remit. Particular priority is given to RAPID proposals which fall within the functional areas financed by the NDP.
Information on the funding provided by my Department under the RAPID programme is as follows. The Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000 — 2006 under the NDP has contributed significantly to the provision of child care in RAPID areas. The funding committed under the equal opportunities child care programme includes the provision of more than €45 million in funding to child care services operating in RAPID areas, and of this an amount of approximately €18 million has been allocated to proposals submitted directly through the RAPID programme. These supports include the development of new child care places, supports towards the staffing costs of services and supports to organisations which support the quality ethos in Irish child care, which would impact on many of the services located in RAPID areas. As a programme which receives substantial funding from the European Social Fund, the equal opportunities child care programme has a focus on labour market participation and on breaking the cycle of disadvantage through employment or education and training in preparation for employment.
Funding of €3.3 million, under the NDP, has been allocated by my Department under phase 1 of the equality for women measure to 18 projects located in or adjacent to RAPID areas. Phase II of the measure will fund a number of strands of activity including one strand focused on women living in communities which face particular economic disadvantage. Under the RAPID strand, €7 million has been earmarked to fund projects which address the needs of women living in designated RAPID areas. The closing date for applications under this strand was 15 October 2004 and these applications are in the process of being evaluated. My Department expects that the initial drawdown of grants will occur early next year.
Since the commencement of the RAPID programme capital funding of €355,165 has been allocated by my Department in respect of proposals submitted through the RAPID programme for two probation and welfare projects. In addition, current funding of just over €7 million has been allocated by my Department in 2004 to 36 probation and welfare projects located in or adjacent to RAPID areas.
Garda youth diversion projects are community based, multi-agency crime prevention initiatives which seek to divert young people from becoming involved — or further involved — in anti-social and/or criminal behaviour by providing suitable activities to facilitate personal development, promote civic responsibility and improve prospects of employability. My Department currently funds 64 Garda youth diversion projects and seven mainstream local drugs task force projects. The funding allocation for the projects for 2004 is €5.318 million. A total of 51 of these projects are located in 32 of the 45 RAPID areas. Expenditure on the projects to date in 2004 in RAPID areas amounts to approximately €3.2 million.
As part of the RAPID programme the Garda Síochána has also allocated a number of community gardaí to specific RAPID areas, initiated new neighbourhood watch schemes and assisted in the provision of a community bus.
236 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of unsolved murders in 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28442/04]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of murders recorded to date in 2004 is 30. The number of these murders which remain undetected is seven. However, these figures are provisional and, as such, are subject to validation and liable to change.
237 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has undertaken a study of the conveyancing cost here compared with other EU countries both in respect of initial purchases and top-up mortgages or mortgage switching; if he has satisfied himself that the legal costs imposed are justified and are not unnecessarily inhibiting competition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28448/04]
No such study has been undertaken by my Department. However, my Department has undertaken an ambitious joint project with the Law Reform Commission with a view to reforming and modernising our land law and conveyancing law. The aims of the joint project will be to: simplify land and conveyancing law and improve its presentation to make it more easily understood and accessible for practitioners and the public alike; update the law to accommodate changing social, demographic and economic needs, including new forms of property ownership; and make the conveyancing of property easier and faster with a view to reducing burdensome costs and delays.
On 28 October, I launched a Law Reform Commission consultation paper entitled, Reform and Modernisation of Land Law and Conveyancing Law, which contains more than 90 draft recommendations designed to update and streamline this important area of law. Publication of the paper completes the first stage of the project and it is being followed by the consultation stage, which will run until 31 December. The third stage will involve the drafting of a Bill, or Bills, to give legislative effect to recommendations for reform.
It is my intention to introduce proposals for draft legislation to give effect to the commission's final recommendations next year. The new legislation will repeal approximately 150 pre-1922 statutes — the earliest of which date back to the 13th century — and replace them with a modern law of property that will meet the needs of the 21st century. The ultimate objective of this project is to facilitate the introduction of an electronic conveyancing system as soon as possible.
238 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress to date in addressing the long delays between motorists being observed breaking the speed limit or other road traffic offences which merit penalty points and the awarding against them of those points; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28450/04]
Section 5 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 deals with the notification to licence holders of the endorsement of penalty points. This aspect of the system is a matter for the Minister for Transport rather than the Garda Síochána.
I am aware that some people have experienced delays. However, as the Deputy will appreciate, the penalty points system is currently operating on a semi-manual basis. The fixed charge processing system, FCPS, will address this issue. FCPS provides for the computerisation of the Garda element of penalty points processing and also provides for the outsourcing of the collection of payments. A pilot system has been operational in the Dublin and Louth-Meath areas since 30 June 2004 and will be rolled out to the Dublin metropolitan region from 22 November 2004. Thereafter, nationwide rollout of the system is dependent on the enactment of the Road Traffic Bill 2004, which will provide, inter alia, for the collection of payments by a service provider. The system will be rolled out nationwide as quickly as possible after the enactment of the requisite legislation.
Where persons do not pay the fixed charge relating to penalty point offences within the time limits set out in the Road Traffic Act 2002 the matter must be brought before the District Court. In Dublin the waiting time for the hearing of these cases can be up to six months from the date a person is charged or from the date of receipt of application for a summons to the first court hearing date. This is due to the large volume of cases coming before the Dublin courts. In the provincial District Courts there is generally no delay in cases receiving hearing dates with the exception of Cork city District Court where there is a waiting time of two to two and a half months.
The Courts Service electronically transmits to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government an interface file once every week, setting out the full details of each court case heard to which penalty points apply. However, to allow time for appeals to be lodged and for all data to be entered and verified on the courts criminal case tracking system, the Courts Service allows at least 28 days from the date on which the penalty is imposed by the court before sending this information to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
The benefits of the considerable advances in road safety achieved in the period since the introduction of penalty points outweigh the regrettable delays resulting from the operation of the interim manual system. I am satisfied that the role played by the Garda Síochána to date in the introduction and ongoing enforcement of the penalty points has been vital in the progress made.
239 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his practical measures to deal with anti-social behaviour in the Clontarf, Raheny and Coolock Garda districts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28423/04]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that gardaí from Raheny, Clontarf and Coolock Garda stations regularly police these areas by both foot and mobile patrols. Additional supporting patrols are provided by divisional units and the detective branch. Community gardaí are assigned to these areas and they have an excellent rapport with the local community.
The current policing plans in the area are predicated on the prevention of public order offences, the prevention of crime, including crimes of violence against persons and crimes against property, and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a policing service to the area in question.
There are also two Garda youth diversion projects in the area, the YAK — Youth Action Kilmore — project and the Woodale project. These projects are community based, multi-agency crime prevention initiatives which seek to divert young persons from becoming involved — or further involved — in anti-social and/or criminal behaviour by providing suitable activities to facilitate personal development, promote civic responsibility and improve long-term employability prospects. By doing so, the projects also contribute to improving the quality of life within communities and enhancing Garda/community relations.
240 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied); if he will review the details of this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28485/04]
Following an investigation, a file on the matter was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions who directed that a prosecution be preferred against the person in question. On 18 April 2004 the person concerned was reported missing. Extensive searches to locate the person have been conducted without success to date and investigations are ongoing.
As the Deputy will appreciate, I have no role in the investigation or prosecution of cases. This is a long standing principle of our system of justice. The role of the gardaí is to investigate alleged offences, to gather whatever evidence may be available and to submit a report to the Director of Public Prosecutions. The question of whether a particular person should be prosecuted and for what criminal offence is the responsibility of the DPP. The director, who is independent in the performance of his functions, makes his decision on the basis of the Garda findings viewed against the background of common and/or statute law. In the circumstances it would, therefore, be inappropriate for me to comment further on this case.
241 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the health concerns regarding the low level electro-magnetic fields from the Tetra radio system in the UK; and if he will fully investigate the health concerns surrounding this prior to considering adopting such a system for use by the gardaí. [28738/04]
A pilot Tetra system utilising Tetra digital radio technology has been in operation in the Dublin north central division and the traffic section in Dublin Castle since February 2002. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that they, through their office of Garda medical director, in conjunction with an independent engineering company, assessed the possible adverse effects on human health when using Tetra technology. Having sourced and examined numerous worldwide studies on this subject the conclusion was that measured levels of exposure from Tetra base stations, hand portables and mobile units were well below the levels permitted by the International Commission for Non-Ionising Radiation Protection, ICNIRP, guidelines.
242 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a school (details supplied) was not covered by the Residential Institutions Redress Board Act 2002; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28284/04]
At present 128 institutions are listed on the Schedule to the Residential Institutions Redress Act and I have recently received the approval of both Houses to include a further 13 to this Schedule. For an institution to be added to the Schedule it is first necessary to establish that it is an institution in which children were placed and resident and in respect of which the State had a regulatory or inspection function.
It was not possible when the Act was passing through the Houses, or when I was considering what institutions should be included on the forthcoming Order, to have inquiries completed on all of the institutions that had been brought to my Department's attention. The institution referred to by the Deputy was one of those institutions in respect of which inquiries had not been completed.
My Department is liaising with the Department of Health and Children and other interested parties on those institutions and further consideration will be given to their inclusion in the Schedule when this process is finalised.
243 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will consider putting in place a deal with the training schools at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and the NUI Galway in order to provide additional places for Irish students from October 2005. [28431/04]
244 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will work closely with the Minister for Health and Children to significantly lower the points requirement from 580 to 500 for persons who undertake to work for a number of years within the public health system. [28432/04]
245 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if places in medical schools here which are currently being sold to non-EU citizens will be opened up to Irish and EU residents. [28433/04]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 243 to 245, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy may be aware, on 24 September 2003, the Ministers for Education and Science and Health and Children announced details of the membership and terms of reference for a working group on undergraduate medical education and training which has been jointly established to make recommendations on the organisation and delivery of high quality training for doctors in Ireland. The group, which draws on broad representation from medical academia, university, hospital and health board management and Government officials, was set up to examine and make recommendations on a range of aspects of medical education and training in Ireland. This includes the areas of course curriculum, teaching methods, interdisciplinary work and other issues relating to the organisation and delivery of undergraduate medical education and training.
The working group was asked to consider and provide advice on issues arising from a Higher Education Authority, HEA, report which recommended a move to all graduate entry for medicine and other health science disciplines. On foot of this the group has recently presented interim recommendations for significant reform of the entry mechanism to medical education. These recommendations include the introduction of a multi-streamed model of entry to medicine, comprising undergraduate and graduate entry methods, with leaving certificate performance no longer the sole selection method for entry at undergraduate level.
In this regard, it is proposed that selection for entry to undergraduate medicine would be based on two measures. Anyone opting for medicine who achieves 450 leaving certificate points would be eligible for consideration, with places to be allocated on the basis of performance on a separate entry test. These recommendations are a very welcome attempt to address the tremendous pressures that are being placed on students in the second level system as a result of the extremely high leaving certificate points required for entry to medicine and certain other disciplines.
The potential exists for extending the proposed selection approach to other high points disciplines down the road. It is important that the significant implementation issues associated with this proposed change are carefully attended to. I am currently considering the composition and terms of reference of an implementation group for this purpose and intend to bring forward proposals shortly on this front.
I anticipate that the full report of the working group on undergraduate medical education and training will become available in early 2005 and it is my intention to consider the broad range of recommendations that are expected in tandem with my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children. The question of increasing the numbers of medical places in line with projected health service requirements will be progressed in this context.
246 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason spouses of female teachers are discriminated against under the payment of ex gratia spouse’s and children pensions, which are only payable to spouses of male teachers; if she intends to redress this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28235/04]
The ex gratia pension scheme to provide pensions for widows of male teachers on a non-contributory basis was introduced in 1969. It applies to widows of teachers where the deceased teacher had retired on pension or died in service before the introduction, from 23 July 1968, of the contributory scheme. Similar ex gratia schemes were introduced throughout the public service at that time. No corresponding ex-gratia scheme was introduced for the widowers of deceased female teachers in the public service nor was a contributory scheme introduced to provide benefits on the death of female public servants until the 1980s. I have requested my officials to review the operation of the ex gratia pension scheme and to communicate directly with the Deputy on the matter.
247 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science when a special needs assistant applied for in October 2003 will be provided to a person (details supplied) in County Louth; if an assessment has been carried out on this person; and when a reply will be forthcoming. [28236/04]
I can confirm that an application for a special needs assistant has been received for the pupil in question. This is being reviewed in the context of the resources available to the school.
248 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the method applied in the allocation of special needs teachers to primary schools; if she will examine, in particular, the case put forward by persons (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28237/04]
As the Deputy will be aware, the proposed new system for resource teacher allocation involves a general allocation for all primary schools to cater for pupils with higher incidence special educational needs — borderline mild and mild general learning disability and specific learning disability — and those with learning support needs, that is, functioning at or below the tenth percentile on a standardised test of reading and-or mathematics. An additional 350 teacher posts are being provided to facilitate the introduction of the new system.
The proposed allocation mechanism is as follows: in the most disadvantaged schools, as per the urban dimension of Giving Children an Even Break, a teacher of pupils with special educational needs will be allocated for every 80 pupils to cater for the subset of pupils with higher incidence special needs; in all boys schools, the ratio will be one teacher for every 140 pupils; in mixed schools, or all girls schools with an enrolment of greater than 30% boys, one for every 150 pupils; and in all girls schools, including schools with mixed junior classes but with 30% or less boys overall, one for every 200 pupils.
In addition, all schools will be able to apply for separate specific allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence disabilities. The rationale for the different pupil teacher ratios in boys'— 140:1 — and girls'— 200:1 — schools is twofold — international literature on the incidence of disability indicates that, across all disability types, there is a greater incidence in boys than in girls and international and national surveys of literacy and numeracy have found that these difficulties are more common among boys than girls. The rationale for the level of support proposed for schools in areas of urban disadvantage is that evidence shows that there is a significantly higher incidence of literacy and numeracy difficulties in urban disadvantaged compared to other schools, including those in areas of rural disadvantage.
It is important to emphasise that applications may be made for specific resource teacher allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence special educational needs regardless of gender of pupil or status of school. I am conscious of difficulties that could arise with the revised model, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. The proposed system is intended to improve and streamline the special education resource teacher allocation process. The model will obviate the need for cumbersome individual applications, while at the same time ensure that pupils currently in receipt of service continue to receive the level of support appropriate to their needs. In that context, the additional posts being put in place represent a very significant investment to ensure the success of the measure.
Nonetheless, I am conscious of difficulties that could arise with the model, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. Accordingly, I will review the proposal to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common higher incidence special educational needs. The review will involve consultation with educational interests and the National Council for Special Education before it is implemented next year.
249 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the north Tipperary primary and post-primary schools she proposes to place on the building programme of 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28246/04]
Officials in the school planning section of my Department are currently undertaking a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the revised prioritisation criteria, published earlier this year following consultation with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the multi-annual programme. All schools, including those in north Tipperary, which have an application with my Department for building works are being considered as part of this review.
Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.
250 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if she intends to provide funding for the refurbishment and replacement of windows at a convent (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28247/04]
The management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers has made an application for replacement windows under the summer works scheme 2005, for which the closing date was 5 November 2004. All applications for the 2005 scheme will be considered in the school planning section of the Department and it is planned to publish the list of successful applicants in January 2005.
An application for refurbishment of the school is being considered as part of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them under the multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the revised prioritisation criteria, published earlier this year following consultation with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the multi-annual programme.
Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.
251 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding a school (details supplied); if the project will proceed to design stage shortly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28248/04]
The application for a new school building at the school to which the Deputy refers is being considered as part of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the revised prioritisation criteria, published earlier this year following consultation with the education partners.
Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the multi-annual programme. Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.
252 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Kildare regarding the provision of primary education for their child; if everything possible will be done to ensure that a place is found for the child in question without delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28263/04]
I wish to inform the Deputy that my officials have been in contact with the parent, school authorities and inspectorate on a number of occasions concerning a school placement for the child in question. I understand that the parent is arranging to furnish the relevant professional reports to my Department.
Meanwhile, the parent has submitted an application for home tuition as an interim arrangement until a school place is sourced. This application will be considered in the context of the professional reports referred to above.
253 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if there is a sum in the order of €20 million from the capital third level budget 2004 due to the review carried out which suspended expenditure under that heading; if she will sanction the release of these funds for capital projects prioritised in the Kelly report, particularly for a college (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28278/04]
An amount of €20 million has been provided in the 2004 Estimates for capital expenditure in institutions designated under the Higher Education Authority. The report of the capital review and prioritisation working group on the future capital needs in the higher education sector, the Kelly report, was published recently. This report sets out a strategy to meet the future capital needs of the third level sector and identifies an overall estimated Exchequer requirement of almost €1.9 billion capital funding for the sector over a ten year period.
Major capital projects at the institution referred to by the Deputy have been included in the recommendations contained in the Kelly report. The recommendations and the proposed phasing of funding in the report are currently under consideration and I will determine my response to them in the context of the multi-annual capital allocations for the education sector which form part of the Estimates and budgetary process. Funding available in the current year will be factored into any decisions that I will take in that regard.
254 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason no place can be found for a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and the measures which can be employed to ensure this person’s education. [28289/04]
Officials of my Department have contacted the National Educational Welfare Board about the child referred to by the Deputy. The board was not previously aware of this case. The educational welfare officer for the area will contact the child's parents and assist them to secure a school place for their daughter.
Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 provides parents with a process of appeal to the Secretary General of my Department where a board of management of a school or a person acting on its behalf refuses to enrol a student. Where an appeal under section 29 is upheld, the Secretary General may direct a school to enrol a pupil. An educational welfare officer can assist parents in submitting an appeal under section 29 of the Education Act 1998.
255 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the county breakdown of the number of primary schools with class sizes of 20 to 29, 30 to 39 and 40 and over; and if she will provide this information in tabular form. [28290/04]
The information requested is being compiled within my Department and I have made arrangements for my officials to forward it directly to the Deputy.
256 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason grants and schemes are available to a primary school (details supplied) in County Mayo to carry out repairs to its school buildings; and if it is possible for an official to visit the school and advise its board of management regarding the grant most suitable for the school. [28291/04]
My Department funds a number of schemes through which school building repair projects can be addressed. All national schools receive annual funding under the grant scheme for minor works to national school properties which came into operation in January 1997. The replacement of windows, roof repairs, re-surfacing of school yards, re-painting and re-decorating qualify as improvements to school buildings and grounds and come within the scope of minor works covered by the grant. The summer works scheme provides capital grants for necessary small scale works which can be planned and delivered during the summer months. Applications are considered under the terms and conditions of the scheme and the closing date for their receipt for 2005 was 5 November 2004.
While the school referred to by the Deputy has not submitted an application for funding under the 2005 scheme, it is open to its management authority to apply for funding for key priority works under the 2006 scheme. Details of a streamlined application process for schools requiring temporary school accommodation for September 2005 were published some time ago and a circular outlining the summer works scheme and temporary accommodation application processes was issued to all schools. As in the case of the summer works scheme, the closing date for receipt of applications for temporary accommodation for 2005 was 5 November 2004.
Where the board of management considers that the scope of remedial works required at a school is too extensive to be carried out under the summer works scheme and the school does not require additional temporary accommodation for 2005, it is open to the management authority to make application for inclusion in the school building programme. This can be done by completing the application form FLE, application for grant aid for major capital works for national schools. Application forms and further details on the schemes outlined are available from the school planning section of my Department in Tullamore and on the Department's website at www.education.ie.
On the availability of advice on the schemes available, officials of my Department's school planning section will be pleased to discuss with the chairman of the board of management or principal of the school the selection of the most appropriate funding application mechanism for the works required. The school's local inspector will also be able to assist in this context. The Deputy will appreciate that in the context of available resources, it is not possible for the school planning section to visit prospective applicants at the application stage. If required, a visit can be undertaken at the more appropriate assessment stage of the application process.
257 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will consider the decision to close a college (details supplied) in County Dublin and implement the recommendations of the consultants and advisers to keep the college open and to forge links with one of the Dublin based universities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28292/04]
The decision to close the college arose in the context of the determination by the trustees that personnel and financial considerations meant they were no longer in a position to fulfil their role. Following discussions between the trustees and my Department, it was agreed that a consultant would be appointed to meet relevant parties and prepare a report on the options for the college's future. The consultant's report was thoroughly examined in my Department and the options set out for my predecessor's consideration.
Having carefully considered all of them and having taken into account other factors such as the national spatial strategy, relevant costs in a time of financial constraint, a Government decision to restrict public service numbers, the need to secure value for money and a better allocation of resources, Deputy Noel Dempsey decided they were best served by the closure of the college and the designation of St. Angela's College, Sligo, as the sole centre for the training of home economics teachers.
It was agreed that the closure of the college would be phased over three academic years to facilitate students currently enrolled to complete their studies without moving location and to ensure that there was an adequate transition period for staff. On that basis, there has been no intake of first year students to the college for the 2004-05 year. Instead, these students are now in St. Angela's College. Officials from my Department have already met with the trustees and management authorities of the college to discuss necessary practical arrangements including those relating to the position of the college staff. In addition, a senior official from my Department and I met recently with the board of governors and students of St. Catherine's College to further discuss, among other things, the necessary practical arrangements on the closure. I have no plans to reconsider the decision to close the college.
258 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received an application for provision of a sports hall at Davitt College, Castlebar; the date on which this proposal was received; if she has examined the proposal involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28295/04]
In March 1996, my Department received an application from County Mayo VEC for a physical education hall at Davitt College, Castlebar, County Mayo. The project is at advanced architectural planning stage and my Department's officials have received a combined stage 4 and 5 detail design and bill of quantities submission from the VEC.
My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme, including the one at Davitt College, with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the programme from 2005. On conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process, I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.
259 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from her Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28384/04]
Expenditure under the RAPID programme comes from within my Department's overall budget under a variety of headings. I will arrange to forward details for the period in question to the Deputy.
260 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science when a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary will be allocated resource teaching support. [28422/04]
I have arranged for my officials to investigate the matter referred to by the Deputy and contact will be made with the school in question in this regard. Arrangements will be made to advise the Deputy of the outcome in due course.
261 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary and secondary schools in the State; the number designated as being disadvantaged; the criteria for so designating these schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28419/04]
There are a total of 3,283 primary and 746 post primary schools in the State. Of these, 312 primary and 203 post-primary schools are designated disadvantaged.
A number of socioeconomic indicators were used for the selection of schools under this scheme, such as the proportion of pupils at entry whose family resided in local authority housing, flats or in non-permanent accommodation, held medical cards and those in receipt of unemployment benefit or assistance. Giving Children an Even Break, which was introduced in 2001, subsumes the previous process of designation of primary schools that serve areas of educational disadvantage and my Department's approach is now refined to ensure that the individual "at risk" pupils are targeted. Rather than the old method of designating additional schools, my Department now provides support that is commensurate with the levels of concentration in schools of pupils with characteristics that are associated with educational disadvantage and early school leaving.
Primary schools participating in Giving Children an Even Break are in receipt of a range of additional supports, including teacher posts and other non-teaching supports to be targeted at disadvantaged pupils. The additional supports to be provided reflect the level of concentration of pupils from educationally disadvantaged backgrounds in each school invited to participate in the programme.
These levels of disadvantage were established as a result of a comprehensive survey of primary schools carried out by the Educational Research Centre in March-April 2000 at the request of my Department. Over 2,300 primary schools identified as having pupils enrolled with characteristics of disadvantage are participating in Giving Children an Even Break. Any school in which there is at least one pupil which satisfied any of the criteria associated with socioeconomic disadvantage is entitled to additional resources under Giving Children an Even Break scheme. Resources are allocated to schools on a sliding scale and schools with greater proportions of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds are allocated proportionally more resources than those with fewer numbers of such pupils.
262 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of persons who completed their primary education for each of the most recent five years for which figures are available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28425/04]
The information requested by the Deputy is set out below.
|
Number |
|
|
1998/99 |
58,845 |
|
1999/00 |
56,632 |
|
2000/01 |
54,142 |
|
2001/02 |
54,477 |
|
2002/03 |
55,224 |
These figures refer to the overall number of leavers from primary education in the 12 months preceding each primary census. Pupils in special education and pupils who emigrated are not included in the above figures.
This information is not broken down by standard and therefore, at present, it is not possible to determine exactly the number of children who have completed primary level education. This is one of the main reasons why my Department is developing an individualised primary database to replace the current, school level, census of primary schools. This new primary database will allow us to track the progress of students through primary education and to monitor their transition from primary to second level education.
263 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding made available to youthreach for each of the past three years; the number of persons involved in youthreach programmes for each of the past three years; the extent of child care facilities available at youthreach locations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28427/04]
The youthreach programme is an interdepartmental initiative for unemployed young people, generally aged between 15 and 20 years who left school early without qualifications. The programme is delivered in out of school settings in four networks, including youthreach centres managed by the vocational education committees and funded by my Department. Funding for the VEC youthreach programme and the number of trainees in the programme in each of the past three years is set out below.
|
Youthreach Funding |
Number of Youthreach Trainees |
At 31st December |
|
€28.947m |
2,641 |
2001 |
|
€37.457m |
2,859 |
2002 |
|
€37.229m |
2,653 |
2003 |
In addition, my Department provides funding to VECs annually to assist towards the child care expenses of participants in youthreach, Traveller training centre programmes and VTOS, the vocational training opportunities scheme. The local administration of child care assistance is a matter for individual VECs. The grant is intended as a contribution towards costs.
The financial provision for child care assistance for participants on youthreach and other specified programmes in the further education sector in the years 2001, 2002 and 2003 was €3.123 million, €4.736 million and €4.821 million respectively.
264 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the ratio of teachers to pupils in career guidance and counselling services at second level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28428/04]
Under current arrangements, my Department makes a specific ex-quota allocation of teaching posts in respect of guidance to schools in the second level system. In the case of schools in the free education scheme, the level of allocation ranges from eight hours per week in the case of schools with enrolments below 200 pupils to 44 hours per week — that is, two whole-time posts — in the case of schools with an enrolment of 1,000 pupils or more.
In addition to allocations based on enrolments, 50 whole-time equivalent guidance counselling posts were allocated in the 2001-02 school year under the guidance enhancement initiative. The focus of this initiative was to enhance the provision of guidance to young people at risk, to improve links between schools and the world of work and to improve the take-up of science subjects.
My predecessor recently announced an extension of the guidance enhancement initiative for a further two years and also created an additional 30 guidance posts under this initiative from the commencement of the current school year. This decision reflects the high priority given to guidance by my Department.
265 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if educational disadvantage will be an important part of future proposals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28439/04]
Tackling educational disadvantage is one of my key priorities as Minister for Education and Science. My approach to addressing this issue is set in the context of the Government's National Action Plan Against Poverty and Social Exclusion 2003-2005, known as NAPs/incl, and the latest partnership agreement, Sustaining Progress, which contains a special initiative focused on literacy, numeracy and early school leavers.
A key focus of education policy is to prioritise investment in favour of those most at risk and to optimise access, participation and outcomes at every level of the system for disadvantaged groups.
Some €540 million is being provided by my Department in 2004 for programmes specifically designed to tackle educational disadvantage in accordance with the strategies outlined in the NAPs/incl and Sustaining Progress. This includes provision for programmes at pre-school, primary and post-primary levels, as well as for the youth sector, further education measures and programmes designed to broaden access to third level for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This direct expenditure on educational disadvantage represents an increase of over €80 million on the 2003 provision and nearly 8.5% of the net education budget for 2004.
My Department is finalising an overall review of its educational disadvantage programmes with a view to building on what has been achieved to date, adopting a more systematic, targeted and integrated approach and strengthening the capacity of the system to meet the educational needs of disadvantaged children and young people. My priority as Minister for Education and Science will be to continue targeting resources at those areas and people most in need.
266 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science when stage 3 of architectural planning for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare will be completed; the timescale for the overall completion of the school; when she will provide the necessary funding to permit the school to be commenced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28487/04]
The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. It has a band 2 rating. Officials of my Department recently contacted the school's design team and the response to the issues raised is awaited.
My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects that did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 schools building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the programme from 2005. Following the conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process, I intend to publish the 2005 building programme, which will operate in a multi-annual framework.
267 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary and secondary pupils that receive a school meal each day; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28714/04]
My colleague, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, administers the school meals scheme, which aims to supplement the nutritional intake of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds in order to allow them to fulfil their potential within the educational system and also to reduce the risk of early school leaving.
Under this scheme in 2003, school meals were provided in 729 primary and post-primary schools, encompassing approximately 76,000 pupils, at a cost of €3.3 million. Increased provision of €6 million is being made available to support the school meals scheme in 2004. Officials in my Department are co-operating with the Department of Social and Family Affairs on an ongoing basis with a view to further expanding the number of schools participating in the scheme, as well as ensuring that available resources are targeted at those pupils most in need.
268 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the acquisition of a site for a school at Castledermot, County Kildare, for primary education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28715/04]
The property management of the OPW, which acts on behalf of my Department regarding site acquisitions generally, is currently exploring the possibility of acquiring a site for a new school at Castledermot, County Kildare. Due to the commercial sensitivities of site acquisitions, it is not proposed at this stage to identify specific sites to be acquired. However, this information will be placed on my Department's website when the relevant acquisitions have been completed.
269 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has satisfied herself with the new method of allocation of special education needs teachers; her views on whether the proposals will cause gender imbalance; the action she will take to overcome the problems; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28720/04]
As the Deputy will be aware, the proposed new system for resource teacher allocation involves a general allocation for all primary schools to cater for pupils with higher incidence special educational needs, borderline mild and mild general learning disability and specific learning disability, and those with learning support needs, that is, functioning at or below the tenth percentile on a standardised test of reading and-or mathematics. An additional 350 teacher posts are being provided to facilitate the introduction of the new system.
The proposed allocation mechanism is as follows. In the most disadvantaged schools, as per the urban dimension of Giving Children an Even Break, a teacher of pupils with special educational needs will be allocated for every 80 pupils to cater for the subset of pupils with higher incidence special needs. In all boys schools, the ratio will be one teacher for every 140 pupils. In mixed schools, or all girls schools with an enrolment of greater than 30% boys, the ratio will be one teacher for every 150 pupils. In all girls schools, including schools with mixed junior classes but with 30% or less boys overall, the ratio will be one teacher for every 200 pupils. In addition, all schools will be able to apply for separate specific allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence disabilities.
The rationale for the different pupil teacher ratios in boys of 140:1 and girls of 200:1 schools is twofold. International literature on the incidence of disability indicates that, across all disability types, there is a greater incidence in boys than in girls. International and national surveys of literacy and numeracy have found that these difficulties are more common among boys than girls. The rationale for the level of support proposed for schools in areas of urban disadvantage is that evidence shows that there is a significantly higher incidence of literacy and numeracy difficulties in urban disadvantaged compared to other schools, including those in areas of rural disadvantage. It is important to emphasise that applications may be made for specific resource teacher allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence special educational needs regardless of gender of pupil or status of school.
I am conscious of difficulties that could arise with the revised model, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. The proposed system is intended to improve and streamline the special education resource teacher allocation process. The model will obviate the need for cumbersome individual applications, while at the same time ensure that pupils currently in receipt of service continue to receive the level of support appropriate to their needs. In that context, the additional posts being put in place represent a very significant investment to ensure the success of the measure.
Nonetheless, I am conscious of difficulties that could arise with the model, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. Accordingly, I will be reviewing the proposal to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common higher incidence special educational needs. The review will involve consultation with educational interests and the National Council for Special Education before it is implemented next year.
270 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a school (details supplied) in Dublin 8 has not received payment outstanding since 2002. [28721/04]
Some 36 local drugs task force projects were transferred to my Department in January 2001 with annual funding of €2.58 million and included a project based in the school referred to by the Deputy.
The project received the first moiety of its 2002 financial allocation in August 2002. The second moiety was due to be paid before the end of 2002 subject to the receipt of a claim from the school in the normal way confirming that the first moiety had been expended. Unfortunately, the claim was not received until January 2003 at which stage the money had been refunded to the Exchequer at end of December 2002 in accordance with Government accounting procedures.
My Department has been made aware of the outstanding payment and is endeavouring to put the school in funds in this regard before the end of 2004. The school has been put in funds in respect of the 2003 and 2004 claims for the project.
271 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of chaplains who are employees of and are employed directly or indirectly out of moneys provided by the Exchequer in institutes of technology, teacher training colleges, constituent colleges of the National University of Ireland, other recognised colleges of the National University of Ireland, Trinity College, Dublin, Dublin City University and the University of Limerick; and the estimate of the aggregate current annualised payroll cost in each category. [28722/04]
The provision of a chaplaincy service is a matter for individual third level institutions and I understand that most institutions provide such a service. This service could be provided by either the appointment of a chaplain as a member of staff of the relevant institution or by the provision by the diocese or other appropriate body of a chaplaincy service by way of a contract for services.
My Department does not have details of the numbers employed or of the cost of these services. I am arranging to have this information collected and forwarded directly to the Deputy.
272 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 233 of 6 October 2004, when the national council will become operational; when children with learning disabilities transfer from one educational institute to another, the arrangements that are in place to ensure that the latter links into a central database to inform itself of the details of the child’s disability; the provision that is being made to assist children with basic dyslexia but no other learning or behavioural difficulties; and the training that is available for parents of dyslexic children. [28723/04]
The National Council for Special Education has been established as an independent statutory body with responsibilities as set out in the National Council for Special Education (Establishment) Order, 2003.
The process of agreeing protocols for the transfer of specific functions and future operating procedures is ongoing between my Department and the council. I understand, also, that the council expects to occupy its permanent headquarters within the next number of weeks and this move will enable the council to consider how it will develop information systems. The council has employed a number of special education needs organisers, SENOs. At present the SENOs are undergoing induction training and are making preliminary contact with schools in their areas.
There is currently no central database available in my Department of children with special educational needs, SEN, including those with dyslexia. The arrangement has been that, when a pupil with SEN transfers to another school, responsibility rests with the latter school to apply to my Department for the necessary supports if these cannot be provided from within the school's existing capacity. However, once the council becomes operational, it is envisaged that the relevant SENO will be involved in planning the long-term education provision for each pupil with SEN in their area.
My Department has provided annual funding of €63,500 to the Dyslexia Association of Ireland since 1999. This funding has helped the association to operate an information service for members and the public. In addition, it has assisted in meeting the costs associated with the attendance of some children from disadvantaged backgrounds at workshops and programmes organised by the association. Children with dyslexia have, up to now, generally been catered for on an integrated basis in mainstream primary schools where they can be supported by the learning support teacher service or the resource teacher service. At present, there are approximately 2,600 resource teachers and 1,500 learning support teachers in the primary system. The total cost of these services is in the region of €180 million annually.
Where the condition of a pupil with dyslexia is of a more serious nature, provision can be made in one of the four special schools or 23 special classes attached to mainstream primary schools and dedicated to the needs of children with dyslexia. All special schools and special classes for such children operate at a reduced pupil teacher ratio of 9:1. My Department also provides funding to schools for the purchase of specialised equipment, such as computer hardware and software, to assist pupils with SEN, including those with dyslexia, where recommended by relevant professionals.
The Deputy may be aware that my Department has recently developed a new system of allocation of teaching support for pupils with higher incidence SEN, such as borderline mild and mild general learning disability and dyslexia, and those with learning support needs. The new arrangements will involve a general allocation to all primary schools to cater for such pupils. It will also allow for individual allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence SEN. An additional 350 teaching posts are being provided to facilitate the introduction of the new system in September 2005.
273 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7 is about to lose a resource teaching position; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28731/04]
I am conscious of difficulties that could arise with the proposed model for allocating resource teachers to primary schools, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed.
Accordingly, I will be reviewing the proposed model to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common mild learning disabilities without the need for cumbersome individual applications, while at the same time ensuring that pupils currently in receipt of service continue to receive the level of service appropriate to their needs. The review will involve consultation with educational interests and the National Council for Special Education before it is implemented next year.
It is important to emphasise that applications may be made for specific resource teacher allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence special educational needs.
274 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of persons opting to take the leaving certificate applied course for each of the past five years; the number of schools in the State at which this course is offered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28739/04]
The leaving certificate applied programme was developed by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. This programme is part of the expanded senior cycle provision designed to cater for the diversity of participants' needs.
The programme was introduced in 1996 and has proved to be a most successful option as evidenced by the increasing number of pupils availing of it. There has also been a substantial increase in the number of schools providing this programme to facilitate the interest being expressed by candidates wishing to pursue it.
The statistical data relating to the number of pupils taking the leaving certificate applied programme in second level schools is as follows:
|
1998/1999 school year |
66,890 pupils |
183 schools |
|
1999/2000 school year |
273 pupils |
204 schools |
|
2000/2001 school year |
7,193 pupils |
222 schools |
|
2001/2002 school year |
7,495 pupils |
236 schools |
|
2002/2003 school year |
7,977 pupils |
254 schools |
275 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of persons who started their secondary education for each of the most recent five years for which figures are available. [28740/04]
The information requested by the Deputy is set out below. It should be noted that the figures provided relate to the number of pupils in year one of the junior cycle programme.
|
School Year |
Number of Pupils |
|
1998/1999 |
61,682 |
|
1999/2000 |
61,230 |
|
2000/2001 |
59,660 |
|
2001/2002 |
56,674 |
|
2002/2003 |
56,825 |
276 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Defence the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28385/04]
My Department has no function in the RAPID programme and allocates no funding to it.
277 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on whether a ten day period is sufficient time given to a person to reply to a local authority letter proposing to omit them from the register of electors in view of the fact that the person may be away on business or on holidays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28238/04]
I am satisfied that the ten day period within which a person must respond to a registration authority proposing to remove their name from the draft register is reasonable, taking account of the need to ensure that the register is as accurate as possible and of the responsibilities placed on the authority in this regard. In any event, such a person would have a further opportunity to examine the draft register, when published, and bring any inaccuracies to the attention of the authority at that stage.
278 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the contracts of heritage officers employed with local authorities will begin to expire at the end of 2004; if he has plans to ensure that these posts will be maintained; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28279/04]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 386 of 9 November 2004. I understand that 17 of the 24 heritage officers are employed on a contract basis and that the majority of contracts are due to expire between 2005 and 2007.
279 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of the recent flooding and the likelihood of an area of the country being vulnerable to repeated flooding, there are grants available to local authorities to provide for flow bar protection systems for domestic dwellings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28288/04]
My Department has not in the past granted financial assistance to local authorities in respect of flood protection measures for domestic dwellings. I am aware, however, that some authorities, including Wexford County Council, have made provision for innovative assistance to householders in vulnerable areas.
280 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is proposed that new legislation will be introduced to provide a framework for the development of infrastructure projects of national importance; the types of projects that will be considered as part of this new legislation; the timescale for the introduction of the legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28303/04]
I refer to the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 115 of 4 November 2004.
281 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of funding which has been allocated to the RAPID scheme from his Department’s budget since the commencement of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28386/04]
Details of funding allocated to projects under the RAPID programme by my Department are set out in the following table. A number of other RAPID projects are also under active consideration or have been approved in principle by my Department or local authorities, as appropriate. In addition to RAPID projects, public agencies, including local authorities, are already providing a wide range of services in all RAPID areas. My Department has also met the salary costs of the local co-ordinators for each RAPID area. A total of €5.8 million has been expended to date in this regard.
|
RAPID area (Strand I) |
Project no. |
Subject |
Report / Position |
|
Cork — Blackpool/The Glen/ Mayfield |
CKBG008 |
Waste & Recycling — Bring Facilities |
Approved for grant assistance under the waste management capital grants scheme — total allocation (incl. CKFG053) of €107,000. |
|
Cork — Blackpool/The Glen/ Mayfield |
CKBG011 |
Estate Management Mediation Service |
Funding of €42,500 in total approved for this, together with projects CKFG 17, CKKC16c & CKTM 28 |
|
Cork — Blackpool/The Glen/Mayfield |
CKBG035 |
Glen Regeneration Phase 2 & 3 |
€18.2 million approved for phase 1. Work underway and expected to be completed in early 2004. Proposals awaited from the city council in respect of phases 2 and 3. |
|
Cork — Fairhill/ Garranabraher/Farranree |
CKFG017 |
Estate Management — Mediation Service |
Funding of €42,500 in total approved for this, together with projects CKBG 11, CKKC16c & CKTM 28 |
|
Cork — Fairhill/ Garranabraher/Farranree |
CKFG051 |
Civic Amenity Site — northside |
Funding of €365,000 approved for a site in Blackpool to service north Cork City area, under the Waste Management Capital Grants Scheme. |
|
Cork — Fairhill/ Garranabraher/Farranree |
CKFG053 |
Improved availability of Bring Site |
Approved for grant assistance under the Waste Management Capital Grants Scheme — total allocation (incl. CKFG 08) of €107,000. |
|
Cork — Fairhill/ Garranabraher/Farranree |
CKFG055 |
Farranree Housing Project for the Elderly |
Under the Capital Assistance Scheme, €6,957,213 was approved towards the provision of 39 units of accommodation by Farranree Sheltered Housing Ltd. on 2.12.03 |
|
Cork — Knocknaheeney/ Churchfield |
CKKC007c |
Cork CC Area Housing Office |
Office fully staffed and opened for business 02/10/02 — approved funding of €177,763 paid |
|
Cork — Knocknaheeney/ Churchfield |
CKKC016c |
Estate Management — Mediation Service |
Funding of €42,500 in total approved for this, together with projects CKBG 11, CKFG 17 & CKTM 28 |
|
Cork — Knocknaheeney/ Churchfield |
CKKC018d |
Knocknaheeny Regeneration Plan |
Funding of €2.05 million provided under Remedial works scheme for window/door replacement in Blocks A, B and C. Revised design plans for Block D are under examination by the Department. |
|
Cork — Knocknaheeney/ Churchfield |
CKKC019d |
Knocknaheeny Regeneration Block D |
|
|
Cork — Togher/ Mahon |
CKTM004 |
Togher Community Services Centre |
Budget cost approved for sum of €390,000 issued 25th June 2004. |
|
Cork — Togher/ Mahon |
CKTM028 |
Estate Management Mediation Services |
Funding of €42,500 in total approved for this, together with projects CKBG 11, CKFG 17 & CKKC16c |
|
Ballymun |
DUBBALSOC/01 |
Social Supports Initiative |
Funding of €65,047 approved. |
|
Finglas |
DUBFING011 |
Traveller Community Centre at Avila Park |
Approved as part of 6 house scheme Avila Park Phase iv. The Community Centre is part of an overall scheme to provide additional housing at Avila Park. Approved budget €530,922. |
|
Northeast Inner City |
DUBNEIC001 |
Improvements flat complexes |
D/EHLG is currently funding redevelopment work to a number of flat complexes in the inner city involving part demolition, new build and regeneration. €123m in total (1999 prices) provided over the period 1999-2003 |
|
South West Inner City (Canals) |
DUBSW027 |
Supporting the Regeneration process in St. Michael’s Estate |
Demolition works approved at an estimated cost of €764,000. |
|
South West Inner City (Canals) |
DUBSW028 |
Supporting the Regeneration process in Fatima Mansions |
Demolition works approved at an estimated cost of €670,000. |
|
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown |
DRDUNL034 |
Redevelop the housing stock at Laurel Avenue |
Funding of €13.41million approved. |
|
Limerick — Kings Island |
LIMKI 048 |
Establishment Anti-social unit |
Housing Management Initiative grant approved on 31 May 2004 for funding up to €21,600 in respect of salary of an anti-social behaviour official. |
|
Limerick — Southside |
LKS029 |
Phase II and III O’Malley Park Remedial work Scheme |
Phase 1 completed. Approval to proceed to tender for Phase 2 issued July 03. Dedicated Project Officers are being recruited to implement the regeneration plan. The estimated cost for phase 1 & 2 is €17.5m |
|
Clondalkin |
SDCLON017 |
Environmental Improvements Prog — Establish and maintain a Recycling Centre (6 bottle & can banks) |
Provision of 13 Bring Centres in SDubCoCo area approved under the Waste Management Capital Grants Scheme — total allocation €48,000. |
|
Clondalkin |
SDCLON019 |
To implement the Traveller Accommodation Programme in Kishogue |
Tender Approved, expected to start 2005. Approved budget €5,131,310. |
|
Clondalkin |
SDCLON020 |
To implement the Traveller Accommodation Programme in Lynche’s Lane |
Approved to go to tender. Approved budget €500,000. |
|
Clondalkin |
SDCLON023 |
In-fill housing prog — increase housing availability & decrease sites of anti-social behaviour |
Two schemes are underway at an estimated cost of €5.9m. |
|
Clondalkin |
SDCLON025 |
To enhance the funding available for the LA housing refurbishment programme in Shancastle & Greenfort |
Approval has been conveyed to South Dublin County Council to proceed to a first phase of 100 houses in Shancastle and Greenfort under the Remedial Works Scheme at an estimated cost of almost €2.8 million. Work has already commenced on a number of houses. |
|
Clondalkin |
SDCLON026 |
To enhance the funding available for the LA housing refurbishment programme in Moorfield |
Has been approved for Remedial Works Scheme funding. Budget of €3.2m approved. |
|
Tallaght |
SDTALL030 |
Refurbishment of Cushlawn Est. Killinarden |
Approval has been conveyed to South Dublin County Council to proceed to a first phase of 100 houses in Cushlawn Estate under the Remedial Works Scheme at an estimated cost of almost €2.8 million. Work has already commenced on a number of houses. |
|
Tallaght |
SDTALL033 |
Provision of Traveller Accommodation — Kiltipper |
Completed June 2004. Approved budget €1,120,000. |
|
Tallaght |
SDTALL035 |
Provision of Traveller Accommodation — Belgard |
Under construction. Approved budget €2,478,220 |
|
Tallaght |
SDTALL036 |
Extend existing Traveller Accommodation in Brookfield |
Tender Approved August 2004. Approved budget €1,414,703. |
|
Tallaght |
SDTALL040SDTALL046 SDTALL048 |
Environmental Awareness Campaign, Killinarden, Jobstown and Fettercairn. |
In 2003 €20,000 was allocated from the Department together with €5,000 matching funding from South Dublin County Council to a scaled down environmental awareness programme incorporating the three designated areas of Killinarden, Jobstown and Fettercairn. The programme of environmental awareness activities will be undertaken by Dublin South County Council environmental awareness officer. |
|
Drogheda |
LTHDRO008 |
Estate Management Training (residents), Home management training (homemakers), Environmental Awareness Involving schools/youth and community, House Maintenance Course |
Housing Management Initiative grant approved for an Estate Management Officer and various training initiatives. Funding of €32,576 paid. |
|
Drogheda |
LTHDRO18 |
Remedial Housing works scheme |
Approval given. Council considering tenders for a pilot phase of 37 houses. Work has started on the construction of 16 old persons’ dwellings at St. Finians Park. Funding of €1,918,103 allocated. |
|
Waterford |
— |
Refurbishment scheme at Clonard Park, Ballybeg |
Refurbishment scheme at Ballybeg involves the general refurbishment of some 215 dwellings. A Pilot project was approved in November 2001 for 14 dwellings. Approval issued Feb 04 to accept tender for a further 66 houses. Cost for Pilot Phase and Phase 2 estimated at €5.3m. |
|
Waterford |
— |
Development of an integrated action plan for Larchfield/Lisduggan |
Funding for the appointment of an Estates Officer with responsibility for the development of an integrated action plan for Larchfield/Lisduggan was approved under the Housing Management Initiatives Grants scheme. €28,021 in full and final payment 13.11.03. |
|
Waterford |
WATFC033 |
Community Facilities — Manor St. John. |
The Department has indicated its commitment to providing funding of €0.5 million for the refurbishment of the Community Facility at Manor St. John. It is understood that there is a Childcare Facility on this site. |
|
Waterford |
— |
Provision for Water and Drainage Infrastructure — Kilbarry Development Area |
Contract Documents are awaited in the Department. The Local Authority is currently re-examining local requirements in advance of submitting Contract Documents for approval. Estimated cost €2.6m. |
|
Waterford |
— |
Link Road to centre of Ballybeg |
Waterford City Council has been allocated €1.063 million in respect of the Ballybeg Link Road. €532,928 was paid to the City Council in 2003 and €530,072 has been allocated in 2004. |
|
Waterford |
WATFC035 |
Larchville/Lisduggan Area Plan |
Manor St. John — New Housing. The Department has funded the construction of 47 houses for Manor St. John and the Scheme was completed in 2003 at a cost of over €5 million. |
|
Bray |
WKBRAY003 |
Estate Management Development Officer for Bray |
Funding of €38,700 for the appointment of an Estate Development Officer and tenants/staff training approved. Project is now completed. |
|
Bray |
WKBRAY004 WKBRAY005 |
Audit of Housing Stock in RAPID Area |
Funding of €25,000 paid October 2003. Project is now completed. |
|
RAPID Area (Strand II) |
Project no. |
Subject |
Report / Position |
|
Carlow |
CW CRLW O14 |
Housing Management Initiative |
Department has received a housing management initiative grant application from Carlow County Council (& Carlow Town Council) for funding under the 2003 Scheme. Funding up to €45,330 approved in Aug 2003. |
|
Cavan |
CN CAVN 002 |
Construction of Social Housing — Fair Green |
Approval has issued to the Council to provide 4 apartments and 6 houses at Fair Green Hill, Cavan. The scheme is scheduled to be completed in 2004. Funding of €1.2million approved. |
|
Cavan |
CN CAVN 003 |
Construction of Social Housing — Tullacmongan |
Construction of 18 houses was completed in July, 2004 at an estimated cost of €1.9m. |
|
Cavan |
CN CAVN 007 |
Construction of Central Library and Heritage Centre |
Total grant-aid approved for this project is €4,742,495. Project under construction. |
|
Cavan |
CN CAVN 008 |
Construction of Housing at Mount St. Francis — Stage II |
Under Construction. Approved budget €1,140,170. |
|
Mallow |
CK MALL 014 |
Estate Management — Powerscourt |
Funding of up to €23,000 approved. Fully paid Aug 2003. |
|
Youghal |
CK YOUG 008 |
Remedial Works Scheme — Raheen Park |
Works have been approved under the Remedial Works Scheme Approval of Tender and Budget cost of €137,087 issued March 04 |
|
Youghal |
CK YOUG 029 |
Estate Management — Greencloyne & Chestnut Drive |
Funding up to €46,000 approved in Aug 2003 under Housing Management Initiative Grant Scheme 2003. |
|
Mallow |
CK MALL 038 |
Gouldshill/Town Council Local Agenda Environment Partnership Fund. |
This project received €1,250 from the Department’s Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund in 2003 (€2,500 with local authority co-financing). A further grant of €7,680 was awarded on 10.03.04. |
|
Youghal |
CK YOUG 046 |
Local Agenda 21 Partnership Fund — Reduce Youghal’s Waste Initiative |
This project has received €1,250 from the Department’s Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund in 2003 (€2,500 with local authority co-financing). The LA21EPF Funding has been received. Applications for further funding for this project were invited in November 2003. A further grant of €5,000 was awarded on 11.12.03 |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 012 |
Refurbishment of Walter Macken Flats (96 no. dwellings) |
Construction work on the refurbishment works to 96 dwellings at Walter Macken Flats, Galway has commenced. The refurbishment works include the replacement of the existing flat roof, the installation of central heating, plumbing, rewiring, internal refurbishment and upgrading of the general environment of the estate. Funding of €6.3million has been approved. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 013 |
Refurbishment of 44 no. maisonettes at Mervue |
Approval has been given to the City Council to accept a tender for the refurbishment works to 44 maisonettes at New Mervue, Galway. The refurbishment works include the installation of central heating, rewiring, smoke alarms, internal refurbishment and upgrading of the general environment of the estate. Funding of €1.4million approved. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 014 |
Housing Development at Merlin Park, Ballybane; construction of 114 houses |
This development is a mix of local authority, voluntary and affordable units. The final Phase 1, Stage 3 has recently been completed at an estimated cost of €4.3m. 62 local authority houses have already been completed in Stages 1 and 2. The estimated cost of the scheme is €11.27m. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 015 |
Proposed construction of 268 new dwellings at Merlin Park |
Work has commenced on the 1st phase of 52 houses at an estimated cost of €6.2m. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 016 |
Ballybane Neighbourhood Centre |
The Department is providing funding of €250,000 to Galway City Council under the One Stop Shop Programme towards this development. Construction commenced. Expected completion of library and medical centre, end 2004. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 017 |
Refurbishment of 24 no. local authority houses at St. Finbarr’s Tce, Bohermore |
Designated for funding under the Remedial Works Scheme. Approval issued to the City Council in June, 2004 for a tender for a pilot phase of 24 houses at an estimated cost of €3.8m. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 018 |
Housing Management Initiative Grant, Ballinfoile |
Funding of up to €45,600 approved under the Housing Management Initiative Grant scheme in 2002. €30,600 paid in 2003. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 019 |
Construction of 236 no. units at Bóthar na gCóiste, Ballinfoile |
This scheme includes local authority, voluntary and affordable houses — all 126 local authority units are now completed. The total estimated cost of the scheme is €34.5m. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 020 |
Construction of 19 no. social housing scheme for elderly people and people with disabilities at Sandyvale, Ballinfoile |
This scheme was completed in 2003 at a cost of €2.3m. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 021 |
Westside Housing Inclusion Project |
Funding of up to €39,161 approved under the Housing Management Initiative Grant scheme in 2002. €28,639 paid in 2003. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 022 |
Westside Bris Project |
Paid €8,800 in Dec 2003. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 025 |
Library at Westside |
Library officially opened 23.1.04. Grant aid totalling €2,085,751 was allocated in March 2002. €1,815,321 paid to October 2004. €24,015 due for payment November 2004. |
|
Galway |
GY GLWY 028 |
Construction of three group units at Bóthar na gCóiste |
This scheme was recently completed at a cost of €560,000. |
|
Tralee |
KY TRAL 016 |
Earth Education Project |
Grant of €19,020 was awarded in March 2004 in respect 2003 application. |
|
Athy |
KE ATHY 008 |
Remedial Works Scheme at Townspark and Carbury Park |
An allocation of €100,000 has been made to Athy Town Council in 2004 for the scheme. Departmental approval issued in July 04 to enable the Council seek tenders for the project. |
|
Athy |
KE ATHY 009 |
Employment of Tenant Liaison Officer |
Funding up to €31,750 approved in Aug 2003 under the Housing Management Initiative Grant Scheme 2003. €28,800 paid in Nov 2003. |
|
Kilkenny |
KY KLKY 027 |
Ossory Park Remedial Scheme |
Work on pilot phase of 16 houses currently underway for completion by end of 2004. The estimated cost of the pilot phase is €1.2million. Detailed plans and costings awaited from the Council for Phase 2. |
|
Longford |
LDLGFD 026 |
Housing Management Initiative |
Funding of up to €16,000 approved in Aug 2003 under the Housing Management Initiative Grant scheme 2003 |
|
Clonmel |
ST CLON 005 |
Estate Management Initiative |
An application has been received for funding under Housing Management Initiative Grant scheme 2003. €30,600 paid in Sept 2003. |
|
Tipperary |
ST TIPP 001 |
Housing Management Initiative, Tipperary Town |
Funding of up to €7,500 approved. €7,500 paid in 2003. |
|
Carrick-on-Suir |
ST CKSR 010 |
Ballylynch Renewal Programme |
Works have been approved under the Remedial Works Scheme and approval to proceed to tender stage with a pilot scheme of 10 houses was issued Oct 03. In May 04 approval was given for phase 1A of the scheme which involves the provision of central heating in 73 LA owned houses and the replacement of doors and windows in both the rented and privately owned homes. Under the terms of the RWS private householders must pay 50% of the cost of works. The estimated cost of the pilot phase and phase 1a is €2m. |
|
Athlone |
WM ATHL 005 |
Redevelopment of St. Mel’s Terrace |
Grant aid of €50,000 has been approved under the Local Authorities PPP Fund, for a feasibility study to examine the redevelopment of St. Mels Terrace, using a Public Private Partnership approach. The study was completed in June 2004. |
|
Athlone |
WM ATHL 006 |
Athlone Civic Amenity Facility |
Grant assistance of €860,703 approved (2003) for this project under the Waste Management Capital Grants Scheme. |
|
New Ross |
WD NEWR 007 |
Tenant Participation Officer |
€41,400 approved May 2004 (€31,400 salary, €10,000 support costs). |
|
New Ross |
WD NEWR 017 |
Construction of a Waste Water Treatment Plant and interceptor sewer |
Scheduled to commence construction late 2005 — Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006. Estimated Cost is €13.5m. |
|
Wexford |
WD WEXF 026 |
Tenant Liaison Officer |
Funding up to €38,195 was approved in Aug 2003 under the Housing Management Initiative Grant scheme 2003 |
|
Wexford |
WD WEXF 028 |
Local Agenda 21 |
Grant of €12,500 awarded in February 04. |
282 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in regard to the registration of quarries; if local authorities have a complete register or are required to have such within a specific period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28475/04]
Section 261 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, which will enable planning authorities to better regulate the operation of quarries in their area both by providing them with comprehensive information on such quarries and increasing their powers of control over quarrying operations, was commenced with effect from 28 April 2004. Section 261 introduces a once off system of registration for all quarries, except those for which planning permission was granted in the last five years. Under the registration system, quarry operators must supply full details of their operations to the planning authority, including information on the area of the quarry, the material being extracted, the hours of operation, and the traffic, noise and dust generated by the quarry. This information must be supplied within a year, that is, by 27 April 2005.
My Department has issued guidelines on quarries and ancillary activities to planning authorities, to assist with the implementation of section 261.
283 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in regard to the archaeological investigation at Ardriagh, Athy, County Kildare; the cost of the investigation to date; the estimated total cost; the possible completion date of the works; when it will be feasible to complete the very necessary road improvements in the general area of the site. [28735/04]
The road scheme referred to is being undertaken by Kildare County Council and funded by my Department under the EU co-financed specific improvement grants scheme. To date, a total of €1,131,747 has been paid to Kildare County Council in respect of the scheme.
I understand the archaeological elements of the scheme turned out to be more complex than anticipated. In the light of this, it is now a matter for the county council to consider how it wishes to proceed, including a redesign of the scheme to minimise the impact on the archaeology.
