Vol. 598 No. 4
12 Mr. English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the outcome of the recent 3GSM World Congress and Exhibition in Cannes; his views on the lessons which can be learned for the wireless telecoms industry here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6200/05]
I visited the 3GSM World Congress and Exhibition in Cannes on 15 February last to support the strong Irish delegation of 19 companies which attended it. Fourteen of the Irish companies availed of the Irish stand at the exhibition, organised by Enterprise Ireland, while five companies had their own stands.
The 3GSM World Congress and Exhibition is the premier world show for the wireless telecoms industry. The organisers this year registered over 40,000 participants from over 170 countries, including all of the major operators and equipment manufacturers active in the 3G wireless sector.
Each of the Irish companies attending had an individual programme of meetings with operators and systems integrators.
I attended a networking dinner, organised by Enterprise Ireland, for the Irish companies and their partners on the evening of 15 February. The attendees at this dinner were drawn equally from Irish companies and the international investors, buyers and operating companies represented at the exhibition, some of them brought specially for this event by Enterprise Ireland.
I was pleased to have been able to meet each of the Irish companies participating in the exhibition to express my support for their activities. I also met representatives of NTT DoCoMo, NEC and Siemens' venture capital arm, SMA, to encourage them to improve their co-operation with Irish companies.
I was deeply impressed by both the exhibition and by the Irish companies which participated in it. The companies have a clear commercial focus and excited a substantial level of interest among systems integrators, buyers and operators attending the exhibition. The wireless telecoms market was valued at over $380 billion in 2003, and is expected to grow to over 500 billion dollars in five years time. I believe Ireland has a clear strength in this sector and that many of the companies participating in this exhibition will show substantial growth over the coming years.
Although it is still too soon after the exhibition to detail specific commercial outcomes, the feedback from the companies attending is positive. The Government, through Enterprise Ireland, will be following up with both the Irish companies and the international buyers at the show to ensure that the opportunities identified are availed of.
13 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the main findings of the progress report submitted to him by a person (details supplied) relating to three companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6189/05]
43 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in regard to the direction issued by his predecessor to an authorised officer to cease his inquiries into three companies being carried out under section 19 of the Companies Act 1990, the authorised officer has completed his reports; if he has received these reports; if he has passed any relevant information to the tribunals of inquiry; the date on and the tribunal to which such information was passed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6166/05]
74 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will make a statement on the report of a person (details supplied); the reason this investigation was concluded earlier than expected; and the advice his Departmental officials gave the then Minister in that regard. [6213/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 43 and 74 together.
Section 21 of the 1990 Act, as amended, prohibits the disclosure of information obtained under section 19 investigations except to certain specified "competent authorities" and for certain purposes. Accordingly, I am not in a position to disclose any details or findings of the investigations to date.
Information and assistance has been provided to both the Moriarty and Mahon tribunals by the authorised officer and by my Department at various dates in the period since March 2004 and this is continuing.
The progress of these investigations was monitored by my predecessor and by the Department over the course of the past seven years. It was the expectation that the investigations would be concluded within a reasonable period following the coming into operation of the Company Law Enforcement Act 2001. Over time, concerns developed on the part of the Tánaiste and the Department in relation to the timeframe of the investigations and these were conveyed at various times to the authorised officer. These concerns culminated in the issue of a formal direction on 29 July 2004 to the authorised officer to cease investigative work and to commence writing up the reports with a view to facilitating appropriate follow-up action as soon as possible by relevant authorities. I am informed and understand that this direction was based solely on concerns relating to the length of time which the investigations were taking and to the consequential possibility that any meaningful substantive follow-up action, if such were deemed necessary, would be rendered more difficult.
14 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when the promised new legislation in regard to export controls for military goods will be introduced; the main features of the legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6151/05]
28 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the nature of the proposed new legislation in the area of export controls for military goods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6197/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 28 together.
The proposed new legislation, which was recommended by the 2004 Forfás review, will provide for the introduction of new controls on arms brokering and on the provision of certain types of technical assistance. Existing legislation will be also updated to provide, inter alia, for increased penalties for non-compliance with export control legislation, for the statutory right for the inspection and audit, by officials from my Department, of companies that export military goods and for controls on the transfer of relevant software and technology by electronic means. Work on drafting of the new legislation has commenced and it is hoped to publish the Bill this year.
The introduction of this new legislation will ensure that Ireland meets its EU and international obligations in full and equally ensures that its procedures are not overly restrictive as to make Ireland an unattractive location by international standards for mobile activity in legitimate industries.
15 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the recent Enterprise Ireland report on start-up companies and the action he plans to take on the basis of the findings of that report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6219/05]
47 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on a recent publication (details supplied); if more can be done to reduce the 25% of start-up businesses that failed in the period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6188/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 47 together.
The report referred to is the Review of Enterprise Ireland Supported High Potential Start-ups 1989-2004, conducted by Enterprise Ireland. I should point out that the report is an internal report of Enterprise Ireland and as such is an operational issue for the agency and not one in which I have a direct function.
Enterprise Ireland has informed me that the report is a review of the performance of 470 Enterprise Ireland supported high potential start-up companies, HPSUs, that started between 1989 and June 2004.
Of the 470 HPSUs that started in this period, 357, or 76% of firms are still trading as EI clients, 21, or 4%, were taken over and 92, or 20%, are closed. Enterprise Ireland considers that the failure rate is low by most standards given the normal risk of starting a new business.
It should be noted that the average number of start-ups per year has also increased significantly between 1989 and 2004. It has risen from an average of 17 new HPSUs per year in the 1989 to 1996 period to an average of 58 HPSUs per year in the period 2001 to 2003. During 2004, 65 new HPSUs were started and supported and I will be announcing the names of these companies on 2 March 2005. The review also found that there has been no appreciable increase in the failure rates, despite the substantial increase in the volume of start-ups.
The economic importance of HPSUs is not underestimated by Enterprise Ireland. In 2003, the 357 companies still trading as EI clients had a combined direct employment of 7,458 people — the majority of which were highly skilled jobs — and total sales of €979 million. This represents a very substantial positive economic impact.
EI will not be complacent and will seek to further increase the success rate of HPSUs. Of the 52% of HPSUs that fail, this failure occurs within the first three years. This "valley of death" period has been highlighted as an area where EI is to devote more resources and effort including: a team based approach to bring the extensive experience and a range of expertise to bear at this critical stage; a joint approach by EI staff in Ireland and overseas to assist early stage companies to identify and secure key customer reference sites; a more direct and supportive approach to assisting companies to develop and augment their management team and board capabilities; and a milestone funding based approach to the provision of EI funding to an increased number of the start-ups phasing funding in line with realistic targets.
16 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when the promised legislation to put the employment permit regime on a comprehensive and sound statutory footing will be brought forward; the reason for the delay in bringing forward the legislation, which was originally promised for early 2003; if it is intended to replace the current work permit system with a green card system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6153/05]
A Bill to put Ireland's existing employment permit system on a statutory basis is in the final stage of drafting. The intention is to have the Bill enacted before the summer recess. The preparatory stages of this Bill have taken longer than expected because of the change in labour market circumstances, due to the enlargement of the European Union.
The proposed Employment Permits Bill 2005, which will govern the issue of all employment permits for nationals from outside the European economic area, EEA, will put the existing employment permit administrative arrangements on a sound legislative footing and thereby provide greater accountability and transparency. The EEA comprises the 25 EU member states, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
It is also intended that the Bill will include provisions that will empower me to issue employment permits of extended or indefinite duration, analogous to a "green card" type system, where the workers in question are critical to meeting Ireland's skill and employment needs.
18 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the work undertaken by Enterprise Ireland in 2004 in facilitating the expansion of Dublin companies to regional locations; the details of firms which relocated in 2004; the number of employees which relocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6204/05]
The implementation of Enterprise Ireland's regional development strategy is a day-to-day matter for the agency and not one in which I am directly involved.
Enterprise Ireland informs me that it seeks to encourage a balanced spread of regional enterprise development in line with Government policy. Enterprise Ireland's strategy in this regard includes encouraging companies, where relevant, to locate outside Dublin and its environs to less developed regions.
One of the ways in which Enterprise Ireland encourages client companies that wish to relocate to regional locations is by making it financially more attractive for them to establish or grow outside Dublin and the mid-east. Enterprise Ireland provides higher levels of funding assistance for companies that are expanding or establishing a business in certain regions.
The availability of suitable building infrastructure can be an important factor in encouraging companies to expand outside Dublin and Enterprise Ireland makes its client companies aware of available business space in the regions. It also conducts itineraries to regional locations for companies which might be encouraged to relocate. Furthermore, Enterprise Ireland is directly involved in supporting certain programmes aimed at building infrastructure for businesses.
There is little tradition of companies relocating outside of Dublin. While Enterprise Ireland can encourage a company to consider relocation, it is the company itself that makes the final decision. There are many factors, beyond the influence of Enterprise Ireland, which the company will consider such as its home base, proximity to markets, availability of physical, educational and research infrastructure, access to raw materials and availability of skilled labour and research facilities, to name but a few.
Enterprise Ireland remains committed to the creation of an environment where existing businesses in the regions can develop their competitiveness, high growth start-up businesses are encouraged, and innovation flourishes. My Department considers the issue as a priority and has recently asked Enterprise Ireland to review its regional enterprise development strategy. It is intended that this review will facilitate the design of a new regional strategy for the agency.
19 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the recent report from a centre (details supplied) which found that foreign women employed as domestic workers were being subjected to widespread mistreatment and exploitation; if he intends to introduce additional measures to ensure that such vulnerable workers are not exploited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6155/05]
I can confirm that the report referred to in the question has been brought to my attention.
The labour inspectorate of my Department is responsible for monitoring certain employment conditions for all categories of workers in Ireland, including immigrant workers. The inspectorate operates without any differentiation with regard to worker nationality as statutory employment rights and protections apply to immigrant workers in exactly the same manner as they do to native Irish workers.
In the area of pay and conditions, it is primarily the provisions of the National Minimum Wage Act 2000 and the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 that apply to employees who are employed in domestic service.
Inspectors pursue allegations of worker mistreatment and when evidence of non-compliance with the relevant employment rights legislation is found, the inspectorate seeks redress for the individual/s concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated. Employers are required to maintain records in respect of such employees and these records, together with other substantiating evidence, for example, a statement from an employee, provide the essentials of a basis for legal proceedings. Failure on behalf of the employer to maintain adequate records is an offence.
It should be noted also that in many cases employment rights legislation has provisions whereby workers who believe they have been denied their entitlements, or otherwise unfairly treated, can, as an alternative to dealing with the labour inspectorate, take the matter before a commissioner in the rights commissioner service of the Labour Relations Commission.
In this regard, I urge anyone who has evidence of the mistreatment of workers to furnish all the relevant details and any related materials to the inspectorate with a view to pursuing the matter.
Where employers seek work permits in order to employ non-EEA nationals, the Department requires a statement of the main functions of the job, salary-wages, deductions, other than statutory, other benefits and hours to be worked per week. Both the proposed employer and the proposed employee must sign this statement. Work permits are not granted unless there is evidence of the intent to comply with minimum wages legislation. Applications for renewals require confirmation that the stated wages have been paid; P60 and other sources are used. New work permits are not granted for sectors such as domestic employment where it is believed that such employment can be met from the Irish-EEA labour market and where there is a greater risk of exploitation; the granting of new work permits for this category of worker ceased in early 2004.
20 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in order to aid competitiveness by lowering insurance costs for both businesses and motorists, his Department is considering bringing forward proposals for the establishment of a State insurance company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6141/05]
Following the establishment of the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority, IFSRA, on 1 May 2003, I no longer have responsibility in relation to the supervision and regulation of insurance undertakings. The Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority, IFSRA, under the aegis of the Minister for Finance now holds responsibility for practically all of the financial services industry, including insurance.
My Department is not considering bringing forward proposals for the establishment of a State insurance company. Financial services generally are a matter for the Minister for Finance. I am not aware of any plans in this regard. I understand, however, that State funding of an insurance company would raise state aid issues under EU rules.
21 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of EU directives for which his Department has responsibility and which have yet to be implemented; the number in respect of which the deadline for implementation has passed; if he has satisfied himself with the rate of compliance by his Department; the number of cases in which legal actions have been notified or commenced by the European Commission arising from a failure to implement a directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6162/05]
The current position in relation to the transposition of EU directives for which my Department is responsible indicates a total of 29 directives to be implemented, including nine for which the deadline for implementation, in full or in part, has passed.
Details of the directives, including, in so far as it has been decided, the proposed transposition instruments, are available on my Department's website at www.entemp.ie/trade/eudirectives. The website also contains information on directives in respect of which infringement proceedings have been commenced. A number of these directives have been transposed but are still the subject of legal proceedings by the European Commission.
In relation to six of the directives that have not yet been transposed and for which the deadline has passed, letters of formal notice have recently being received from the Commission.
I am satisfied that my Department is giving all due priority to the task of implementing EU directives, in light of the available resources.
22 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he is satisfied that there are sufficient legal safeguards in place to ensure the right of all employees to be represented by a trade union; if he intends to legislate for collective bargaining arrangements in accordance with the principles of the ILO and enshrined in the European Convention on Human Rights and the proposed new EU constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6144/05]
The system of industrial relations in Ireland is essentially voluntary in nature. However, for situations where it is not the practice of an employer to engage in collective bargaining negotiations and where the internal procedures normally used by the parties have failed to resolve a dispute, the parties may avail of procedures set out in the Industrial Relations (Amendment) Act 2001 as amended by the Industrial Relations (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004 and supported by the enhanced code of practice on voluntary dispute resolution. These procedures contain two distinct strands for settling the issues in dispute — a voluntary procedure and a fall-back legislative procedure. I have no plans to bring forward new legislation in this area.
23 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department has carried out or commissioned any research on the effects on business of the current system of commercial rates, compared to a system of site value taxation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6215/05]
This matter is the primary responsibility of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. My Department has not carried out or commissioned research on the effects on businesses of the current system of commercial rates compared to a system of site value taxation.
24 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he intends to publish the report of the review group on the employment rights bodies; the main recommendations in the report; if he intends to implement these recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6146/05]
Membership of the review group on the functions of the employment rights bodies consisted of representatives of the bodies covered by the review and representatives of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Written submissions were received from various parties, including the social partners and the bodies covered by the review.
The review group made a number of recommendations intended to bring a greater coherence to the workings of the bodies, combined with greater accessibility and improved customer service. These included improved internal processes and common procedures, some possible reconfiguration of fora and measures to bring about legislative restatement and harmonisation of the large corpus of employment rights legislation.
Since receiving the report my Department and I have engaged in a very intensive process of consultations in the context of the report. The key challenge to be faced in formulating the Government's proposals in this area will be to offer a better customer service while reforming procedures and simplifying the overall process, but while not reducing employment rights or undermining the adjudicative independence of the various bodies concerned.
The very intensive consultations to which I have already referred have identified a number of possible approaches that can command a wide degree of consensus among the various interests involved. These are now being considered in the context of the Government's overall perspective on dispute resolution, customer service and the related issue of a competitive and flexible labour market.
It is my intention to be in a position to announce the Government's response to the review group's report and the subsequent consultations within the next few weeks.
In accordance with the undertaking given by the review group, the report will be made available to the parties invited to make submissions to that group and will be published on the Internet, after consideration by Government.
25 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, further to Question No. 301 of 15 February 2005, if he will review the policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6113/05]
The reduction of 5,000 in staffing levels as announced by the Government in 2002 applies to all sectors of the public service. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and its agencies, including FÁS, are expected to contribute to this reduction. In the case of FÁS, a reduction of 150 from a staffing level of almost 2,400 over a number of years is considered appropriate and in the circumstances I do not propose to review the situation.
26 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he is satisfied that the necessary measures have been taken to prevent exploitation of foreign workers in the construction industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6187/05]
61 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will report on the work of the labour inspectorate with respect to the ongoing evidence of exploitation of migrant workers. [6140/05]
66 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps being taken to prevent the exploitation of migrant workers in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6139/05]
124 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he is satisfied that all immigrant workers have been paid and treated in accordance with national and EU legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6457/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 26, 61, 66 and 124 together.
The labour inspectorate of my Department is responsible for monitoring certain employment conditions for all categories of workers in Ireland, including immigrant workers. The inspectorate operates without any differentiation with regard to worker nationality as statutory employment rights and protections apply to immigrant workers in exactly the same manner as they do to native Irish workers. Inspectors pursue allegations of worker mistreatment and when evidence of non-compliance with the relevant employment rights legislation is found, the inspectorate seeks redress for the individual/s concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated. Employers are required to maintain records in respect of such employees and these records, together with other substantiating evidence, for example, a statement from an employee, provide the essentials of a basis for legal proceedings. Failure on behalf of the employer to maintain adequate records is an offence.
I urge anyone who has specific evidence of the mistreatment of workers to furnish all the relevant details and any related materials to the Inspectorate with a view to pursuing the matter.
The wages and employment conditions of workers employed in the construction industry are governed by the Registered Employment Agreement (Construction Industry Wages and Conditions of Employment) Variation Order, which is enforced by the labour inspectorate of my Department. In this regard, the rate of pay which can be enforced in respect of construction operatives under the terms of the registered employment agreement is €7.36 per hour.
The enforcement of the provisions of a registered employment agreement may also be effected under the industrial relations Acts. A trade union, an association of employers or an individual employer may complain to the Labour Court that a particular employer is not complying with a registered employment agreement. If, after investigating a complaint, the court is satisfied that the employer is in breach of a registered employment agreement it may by order direct compliance with the agreement. Failure to comply with such an order is an offence punishable by a fine.
Where employers seek work permits in order to employ non-EEA nationals, the Department requires the statement of the main functions of the job, salary-wages, deductions, other than statutory, other benefits and hours to be worked per week. Both the proposed employer and the proposed employee must sign this statement. Work permits are not granted unless there is evidence of intention to comply with minimum wages legislation. Applications for work permit renewals require confirmation that the stated wages have been paid; form P60 and other sources are used for this.
27 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will make a statement on the outcome of his recent official visit to China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6172/05]
41 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will report on his visit to China; his views on whether the political situation in China, including the denial of human rights and the lack of democratisation, is endangering political stability and, therefore, Irish investments in China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6218/05]
50 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his assessment of the recent trade mission to China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6190/05]
85 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the value to Ireland of trade with China; if he will report on the contracts entered into during the recent trade mission to China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2630/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 27, 41, 50 and 85 together.
Between 17 and 25 January 2005, I accompanied the Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, on an official visit and trade mission to China. The Ministers for Education and Science, Agriculture and Food and Communications, Marine and Natural Resources also participated.
The trade mission was the largest in the history of the State, involving in total 121 Irish companies and educational institutions primarily involved in the ICT, educational services, environmental and engineering services, medical devices and food and drinks sectors.
During the mission, a memorandum of understanding was signed with the Chinese Government concerning mutual co-operation and development in software and a joint statement on education was issued. A protocol concerning the opening of trade in pork was also signed.
The total value of contracts signed between Irish suppliers and Chinese customers in the course of the mission totalled €125.8 million. In addition, four Irish companies — Kerry Group, AIL, EPS, PUCA — signed investment contracts worth €46.8 million.
During the trade mission, over 1,800 meetings were held by the Irish participants with potential and existing customers. I expect that these contacts, and the follow-up which the participating companies will undertake, will lead to substantial additional commercial gains in the future.
In Beijing, business agreement contracts to a total value of €38.5 million were signed. In addition, agreements in the education sector to the value of €31.4 million were signed.
In Shanghai, business agreement contracts to a total value of €39 million were signed, and additional agreements within the education sector to the value of €6 million were signed.
In Hong Kong, business and education sector agreements were signed amounting to €10.9 million in total.
Trade between Ireland and China-Hong Kong is currently worth €4.8 billion a year — an increase of 24% on 2003. The CSO estimates that Irish exports to China in 2004 increased by 9% last year over 2003, from €585 million to €639 million, while exports to Hong Kong increased from €688 million to €833 million. More than 250 Irish companies are currently doing business in China and Hong Kong and many have well-established partnerships and business alliances with local companies.
In the course of the visit, the Taoiseach announced that it is the Government's intention to double the value of trade between Ireland and China by 2010. Based on emerging trends and projections, the Government is confident that this can be realised, or even surpassed. In the interim all Government Departments, State and private entities involved will be co-operatively working to that end.
During the mission, I met a number of representatives from companies which have invested in China and they expressed a general satisfaction with their experience.
While recognising that democracy and respect for human rights in China are not at the level we would wish, the Government takes the approach of seeking to encourage the Chinese authorities to continue to move in a positive direction. This approach, which situates human rights issues and questions of democratisation within a broad dialogue on matters of mutual concern, is shared by other European and North American governments and is, I believe, the approach most likely to yield tangible long-term progress on these issues, thus leading to greater stability in China.
29 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding the liquidation process for Irish Fertiliser Industries; if he has satisfied himself that all possible steps have been taken to protect the interests of former employees of this company who lost their jobs as a result of the liquidation of same; if he has any information regarding the proportion of pension entitlement that former workers, including those in Northern Ireland, are likely to receive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6147/05]
I understand that the liquidator has made considerable progress in realising the assets of the company and establishing the full extent of its liabilities and that he hopes to complete the liquidation process later this year. At this stage, the plant and machinery at the main production facilities at Arklow and Cork have been sold and are in the process of being dismantled and removed from the sites by the purchasers. The production sites themselves remain the principal assets yet to be realised. It is understood that the liquidator has received an offer for the Cork site and that discussions are ongoing with the prospective buyer, while a number of parties have expressed interest in acquiring the Arklow site. It is a matter solely for the liquidator to determine whether to accept any particular offer made.
The State has already made a significant financial contribution to assist the former employees of Irish Fertiliser Industries. Following the decision by the board of IFI to put the company into liquidation, ICI and the State, the shareholders in IFI, while there was no legal obligation to do so, established a special fund with almost €24.5 million to provide ex gratia severance payments to the former employees of IFI. Payments from the fund were made were in accordance with the basis for distribution determined by the trustee of the fund, which has been endorsed by a ballot open to all employees.
In addition, the liquidator has admitted, as unsecured creditors in the liquidation, claims from the employees of the company to have entitlements in respect of the voluntary severance terms traditionally paid by the company. However, the dividend payable to the workers concerned, if any, can only be determined when all the assets of the company have been realised and all liabilities established. It must be emphasised that the amount, if anything, to be paid in due course in respect of such claims is a matter solely for determination by the liquidator.
As regards pensions, I understand that the two main schemes covering employees in the Republic have sufficient funds to meet all of the entitlements provided under the schemes. While I understand that the schemes may not be in a position to provide some additional discretionary benefits that members had hoped to receive, it would appear that the payment of such benefits would always have been conditional on sufficient funding being available to meet the costs involved. I am aware that employees based in Belfast, who are deferred pensioners of the Richardsons' pension fund, are likely to receive much reduced pension entitlements. The specific financial position of the Richardsons' fund appears to have arisen primarily from a combination of the statutory rules which currently apply on the winding up of a pension fund in the UK and a shortfall in the assets of the Belfast fund compared with its liabilities as a result of the fund trustees' investment strategy coupled with a significant fall in the equities market.
I understand that the UK Government has announced proposals to deal with the issue of pension shortfalls arising from insolvencies but I am not aware of the impact, if any, this may have on the shortfall in the Richardsons' scheme. In addition, I understand that the trustees of the various schemes involved have submitted a number of claims to the liquidator of IFI and that he is currently considering, in consultation with his legal and actuarial advisers, whether, and to what extent, these claims are admissible.
While I have the utmost sympathy for the plight of the members affected by the shortfall that has arisen in the scheme, I am satisfied that the Irish Government does not have any obligations in respect of the shortfall that the pension scheme faces.
30 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he is satisfied that the Health and Safety Authority has sufficient staff and resources to carry out its work, in view of the continuing unacceptable number of industrial accidents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6168/05]
This year the Health and Safety Authority will receive a grant of €16.098 million, which is an increase of 12% on 2004. In addition, an allocation of €301,000 has been made towards workplace safety projects to be implemented in conjunction with the construction safety partnership.
The authority has a staff of 163, 100 of whom are specifically involved in inspection, investigation and enforcement of health and safety legislation.
The authority has an ambitious work programme for 2005 which includes an increase in the level of inspections to be undertaken and the related enforcement. Serious accidents and complaints will be prioritised, investigated and any necessary actions taken to ensure the required improvements. New business systems will be implemented to support the inspection and enforcement management systems to enable inspectors to better target places of work for inspection and enforcement.
In the context of the overall allocation of resources I am confident that the authority can achieve the objectives set out in its work programme for 2005.
The number of people killed in work related accidents last year was 47 compared to 65 in 2003 and 61 in 2002. While this is the lowest number of deaths since the authority was established in 1989 it is still unacceptable. There is a major challenge to reduce workplace accidents which lead to injuries and deaths. There are responsibilities on the main participants in the workplace — the workers and employers. The achievement of good health and safety standards in the workplace comes about as a result of interaction, co-operation and joint action towards a mutual goal between staff and management.
31 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has received the report of the high level group to consider the implications of the report of the enterprise strategy group and the best manner of implementing its recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6142/05]
78 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made to date in implementing the recommendations contained in the report of the enterprise strategy group, Ahead of the Curve; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6137/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 78 together.
Shortly after the launch of the enterprise strategy group's report in 2004, the Government asked a high level committee under the chairmanship of my Department to advise on the most appropriate means to progress implementation of its recommendations. The Government recently considered and endorsed that committees report, which was broadly supportive of the policy directions recommended by the enterprise strategy group.
As recognised by the ESG, the environment in which our businesses trade is becoming more global, more competitive and our economy has to become more reliant on knowledge and innovation to win business in tomorrow's technologies and markets. To ensure continued enterprise profitability with robust and quality employment creation potential, I have, earlier today, announced the main findings of the Government concerning implementation of the ESG recommendations. Except in a couple of small areas we can now push ahead with getting the ESG's policy options into effect. Indeed in some areas, significant progress has already been made on a number of the ESG's suggestions.
As part of this process I will be making regular reports to Government on progress in implementing the ESG's prescriptions, which are imperative to providing the enterprise economy with the momentum for continued prosperity and profitability.
In drawing up these reports I will be consulting an expert group comprising a number of representatives of the enterprise sector and relevant Secretaries General from Departments will attend those meetings. The expert group will advise me on how implementation milestones are being achieved and any other issues concerning the implementation process.
Putting in place the ESG's diverse and innovative suggestions is not necessarily a simple and straightforward process given the number of Departments and agencies involved. I will rely on the expert group's depth of experience to advise me about any implementation difficulties and how they can be overcome or circumvented.
For the Deputies' information I am providing a copy of my recent announcement concerning the formation of the expert group and the outcome of the high level committee's work.
32 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of work permits issued to date under the new arrangements to give access to employment to the spouses of non-EEA nationals working here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6154/05]
A total of 844 work permit applications in respect of the spouses of non-EEA nationals working here were issued up to 18 February 2005.
33 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps he will be taking to encourage the growth of trade between developing countries and the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2660/05]
68 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has proposed, in view of the recent South East Asia disaster and for the more general reason of poverty reduction, such new initiatives on trade as would bring a genuine development round in relation to trade into existence at the level of the World Trade Organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2762/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 33 and 68 together.
Trade is increasingly recognised as an important and effective lever for development and hence the alleviation of poverty. Ireland, in common with other EU member states, has placed a very clear emphasis on the need to assist developing countries and particularly least developed countries, LDCs, in their integration into the world economy as a necessary condition for their future development. Such integration, which is one element in the process of poverty reduction in the LDCs, will be deeper and fairer if anchored in the WTO multilateral trading system.
Ireland, along with other member states of the EU, in the context of the delivery of the development dimension of the Doha development agenda, is committed to working hard to secure genuinely pro-development outcomes in all areas of the DDA work programme. The DDA negotiations are currently ongoing and in that regard the European Union is giving priority in these negotiations to the achievement of real benefits to the poorest countries through substantial progress on issues of interest to developing and least developed countries. This discussion is taking place across the full range of issues including market access, special and differential treatment and trade-related assistance and capacity building targeted at those most in need.
By increasing their trade capacity developing countries can enhance export earnings, promote industrialisation and encourage the diversification of their economies. While multilateral trade liberalisation is the priority, effective preference arrangements can provide a stepping stone to help developing countries benefit in the long run from such broader liberalisation. A key instrument for helping developing countries achieve these objectives is the provision of tariff preferences under a generalised scheme of preferences such as the EU's GSP scheme. More recently, in the context of the enhancement of the European Union's generalised scheme of preferences for developing countries, the EU Commission has indicated that it is seeking the earliest adoption of the revised GSP regulation and in any case not later than 1 April 2005. The accelerated entry into force of these preferential trade measures will be to the benefit of tsunami-hit countries and is a direct response to the recent tsunami disaster. The EU GSP, already by far the most generous in the world, provides for further tariff concessions, in particular in the clothing and fisheries sectors, and its benefits will extend to all countries affected by the tsunami with its focus on those most in need such as the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Indonesia. Ireland is fully supportive of and is doing everything to see that the GSP regulation enters into force at the earliest opportunity.
34 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has received the final report of the consumer consultative panel; if it is intended to publish the report; if he intends to implement the recommendations of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6159/05]
40 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress to date of the consumer strategy group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6206/05]
62 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he intends to legislate for a consumer rights enforcer to represent consumers at social partnership talks, to name and shame those charging excessive prices and to act to eliminate uncompetitive behaviour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6203/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 34, 40 and 62 together.
The consumer strategy group was established in March 2004 to advise and make recommendations on the development of a national consumer strategy. I have not yet received the group's final report. However, I do expect the group to present its report very shortly and that the report will be published shortly thereafter. I intend to fully consider whatever recommendations may be contained in the report as promptly as possible.
35 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has met with the board of Shannon Development; the outcome of those meetings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6192/05]
51 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the end of year returns published by Shannon Development; if his attention has been drawn to the comments made by the chief executive officer that the company will not have the wherewithal to continue driving the region if, as proposed, a major transfer of its assets is made to Shannon Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6149/05]
82 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made to date with regard to his consideration of the deliberations of the working group established to examine the specific issue regarding Shannon Development; if he has met the board of Shannon Development to discuss this and other issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6148/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35, 51 and 82 together.
In so far as the future of Shannon Development is concerned, I refer to the reply I gave earlier to Priority Question No. 4, which outlines the up to date position in this regard.
I am aware of the end of year returns published by Shannon Development and that these show positive results in the region, including a net growth of jobs in 2004 which reverses the trend of recent years. I have noted the statement referred to in the question that the company will not have the wherewithal to continue driving the region if, as proposed, a major transfer of its assets is made to Shannon Airport. I should point out, in this regard, that the possible transfer of the Shannon free zone assets to the airport authority is just one of a number of options under consideration. As already indicated, the board of Shannon Development is also preparing a new strategy for the company in the light of the various developments impacting on the company, and the mid-west region generally. I expect to discuss this new strategy with the board in the near future.
36 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of IDA-supported firms which set up in Ireland in 2004; the number of existing IDA-supported firms which increased the number of Irish workers they employ; the number of such increase; the location and number of new jobs created in each firm; the proportion of these new start-ups which were located in the BMW region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6205/05]
IDA Ireland is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment to Ireland and its regions. IDA Ireland indicated in its end of year statement for 2004 that it was the best year since 2000 in terms of the quality, depth and value of the investment decisions won and the estimated 10,800 new jobs created. However, more precise data on job creation is compiled from an annual employment survey carried out by Forfás and final figures for 2004 will not be available until mid-2005. According to the 2003 survey, which was published in mid-2004, 21 new greenfield projects supported by IDA Ireland started operations during the year, of which one third were in the BMW region. The survey also indicates that 426 existing companies created 8,673 new jobs. Employment data in relation to individual companies is provided on a confidential basis for survey purposes only.
37 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he plans to introduce a “green card” system for migrant workers; the nature of the scheme; when he plans to introduce it; the number of workers he envisages qualifying under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6209/05]
A Bill to put Ireland's existing employment permit system on a statutory basis is in the final stage of drafting. The intention is to have the Bill enacted before the summer recess. The preparatory stages of this Bill have taken longer than expected because of the change in labour market circumstances, due to the enlargement of the European Union. The proposed employment permits Bill 2005, which will govern the issue of all employment permits for nationals from outside the European Economic Area, EEA, will put the existing employment permit administrative arrangements on a sound legislative footing and, thereby, provide greater accountability and transparency. The EEA comprises the 25 EU member states, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
It is also intended that the Bill will include provisions that will empower the Minister to issue employment permits of extended or indefinite duration, analogous to a "green card" type system, where the workers in question are critical to meeting Ireland's skill and employment needs. Our skills and labour needs will be continually assessed and research carried out by FÁS and the expert group on future skills needs will continue to inform Government policy in this area.
38 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason the IDA has withdrawn its option to purchase land (details supplied) in County Kilkenny in view of its past stated position that this area was an important strategic site of future industrial development. [6212/05]
IDA Ireland is an autonomous statutory agency set up under the Industrial Development Acts 1986 to 2003. The agency operates in accordance with the provisions of the Acts and under the aegis of my Department. The management of IDA Ireland's industrial property portfolio, including the purchase and disposal of property, is a day-to-day operational matter for the agency as part of the statutory responsibility assigned to it by the Oireachtas and a matter in which I have no function. I have been advised by IDA Ireland that it has in place a due diligence process to access land bank needs and that it has taken the view that its existing land bank in the area is sufficient.
39 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the representations he has received relating to the groceries order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6207/05]
I have received a significant amount of correspondence in recent weeks in relation to the groceries order. These representations have generally been made by, or on behalf of, business interests which support retention of the order in its current form. I await the report of the consumer strategy group, which was established to deliberate on a wide range of consumer matters. Accordingly, I expect that the report will contain recommendations in relation to the groceries order. On receipt of the report I will consider the group's findings in consultation with my Government colleagues and interested parties before deciding what action is appropriate.
42 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position in regard to each of the inquiries being carried out by or on behalf of his Department; the projected date for the conclusion of each such investigation; the inquiries in respect of which reports have been referred to the DPP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6164/05]
56 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the costs incurred by the State, at the latest date for which figures are available, arising from the various inquiries instigated by or on behalf of his Department; the element of these costs which have been recovered from any of the other parties involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6165/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 42 and 56 together.
A total of 16 investigations into company law matters were initiated by my predecessor from 1997 onwards. The High Court appointed, on an application by the Minister, inspectors under section 8 of the Companies Act 1990 in three cases. The inspectors appointed to Ansbacher (Cayman) Limited presented their report to the High Court on 10 June 2002 and it was subsequently published and referred to the DPP. The inspectors appointed to National Irish Bank Ltd and National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited presented their report to the High Court on 12 July 2004 and it was subsequently published. The court ordered that a copy of the report should be referred to several relevant authorities, including the DPP.
One investigation under section 14 of the Companies Act 1990 was completed in 1998, the report on which was referred to the DPP. One investigation was undertaken under section 59 of the Insurance Act 1989, the report on which was referred to the DPP as well as to the inspectors who undertook the section 8 investigation into that company.
A total of 11 investigations were initiated by the Minister under section 19 of the Companies Act 1990, six of which have been concluded. Of the six investigations completed, two of the reports were referred to the DPP. A number of summary prosecutions have since been successfully concluded in one case. One report provided an input into the successful application to the High Court for the appointment of inspectors under section 8 while the fourth report was passed to the relevant High Court inspectors. One report was completed in September 2002 and a further report was completed in March 2003. Both reports have been referred to the Director of Corporate Enforcement. Two of the 11 section 19 investigations were held up in legal appeals. These inquiries are the responsibility of the Director of Corporate Enforcement.
With regard to the three remaining section 19 investigations, the authorised officer was directed by my predecessor to cease investigative work and to commence writing up his reports with a view to facilitating appropriate follow-up action as soon as possible by the relevant authorities. I recently received a briefing note on the up-to-date position on the section 19 investigations from the authorised officer. I am considering that with the object of ensuring the reports of the authorised officer on his investigations into the three companies are completed by him as soon as possible and that they are made available to the relevant authorities for any action they consider appropriate.
The costs incurred since 1997 on company investigations initiated by or on behalf of my Department amount to approximately €10.9 million. This amount does not include the salaries of Civil Service staff working on a number of these investigations or the legal costs, which are primarily being borne by the Vote of the Chief State Solicitor. Of the €10.9 million expended, €1.6 million relates to section 19 investigations by authorised officers and the remaining €9.3 million was incurred by High Court inspectors appointed under section 8 —€5.8 million in the case of National Irish Bank Limited/National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited and €3.5 million in the case of Ansbacher (Cayman) Limited.
The question of recovering costs from the section 8 investigations does not arise until such time as the inspectors complete their investigations. The High Court proceedings taken by the State to recover the costs of the Ansbacher inquiry were settled out of court for the sum of €1.25 million in favour of the State. With regard to National Irish Bank Limited-National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited, the court ordered that National Irish Bank should pay the full costs of the investigation. The costs of the investigation have been borne by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Department has requested the Chief State Solicitor's office to commence the process of recovering the full costs of the investigations from the bank. Section 19, as originally enacted, did not provide for the recoupment of costs. It was amended through the enactment of the Company Law Enforcement Act 2001.
45 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if it is intended to introduce and enact the required legislation to give effect to EU Directive 2002/14/EC regarding information and consultation with employees by the required date of 23 March 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The objective of EU Directive 2002/14/EC is to establish a general framework setting out minimum requirements for the right to information and consultation of employees in undertakings or establishments over a certain employee threshold within the Community. On 14 December 2004 the Government approved the priority drafting of the information and consultation of employees Bill 2005. My Department is working closely with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel to finalise the draft Bill and I expect to have it considered by the Government shortly with a view to early publication and introduction in the Oireachtas.
46 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason the new construction regulations approved by the HSA and its construction advisory committee, which included representatives of trade unions and professional bodies, have still not been introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6136/05]
The draft construction regulations are with the Office of Parliamentary Counsel for formal drafting and this drafting has not been finalised.
48 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the aspects of the economy, which are vulnerable due to high costs or lack of competitiveness; his proposals to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6225/05]
123 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the cost factors most prominent in undermining the competitiveness of the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6456/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 48 and 123 together.
The National Competitiveness Council's Statement on Prices and Costs 2004 highlights the key areas that contribute to Ireland's cost base and which affect our competitiveness. The statement also provided the statistical analysis for the NCC's Annual Competitiveness Report 2004, which was published in October together with the council's competitiveness challenge 2004. The challenge offers detailed recommendations designed to address weaknesses in Ireland's competitiveness performance across a range of areas.
Both the NCC's Statement on Prices and Costs 2004 and Annual Competitiveness Report 2004 found that by 2003 Ireland was on a par with Finland as the most expensive country within the euro zone for goods and services. However, the statement also found that Ireland is the cheapest country in the euro zone for both clothing and footwear. With regard to business costs, the statement found that Ireland is the second most expensive country for electricity costs for industrial users. Ireland's cost competitiveness needs to be improved and this will continue to be a priority for the Government.
The Government has already taken several steps to address the issue of prices and costs in Ireland. The Government avoided inflation fuelling increases in indirect taxes for the second year running in budget 2005, thus minimising the Government's contribution to inflation. The most recent consumer price index figures from the CSO show that inflation fell to 2.3% in January compared with 2.6% in December.
Last year, the Government established the consumer strategy group to advise and make recommendations for the development of a national consumer policy. In the performance of this role the group has carried out a range of activities, including studies that investigate issues of special concern. Price trends in other parts of Europe have been examined and some prices have been the subject of additional investigation, including those of fruit and vegetables, alcoholic beverages and pharmaceuticals.
High insurance premiums have adversely affected all business operating in Ireland for the past few years. However, the NCC acknowledged that the cost of insurance for many businesses and consumers has reduced over the last year as a result of determined Government actions including the establishment of the Motor Insurance Advisory Board and the Personal Injuries Assessment Board, PIAB. The Government is, furthermore, committed to increasing competition in all sectors of the economy. The Government recognises that the key to reducing prices and maintaining them at optimal levels in the long term is to ensure that vibrant competition is present in all sectors of the Irish economy. That is why we have strengthened the powers and resources of the Competition Authority, which is charged with combating anti-competitive practice in the economy.
With regard to the high cost of electricity in Ireland, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources recently announced plans for a review of the electricity sector. This review will examine the institutional arrangements and market structures and assess their appropriateness. The impetus for this review stems from the perceived difficulties relating to ESB's dominance and the need to attract new entrants and develop competition in the sector. On Monday, 21 February, the Minister formally invited tenders from European and Irish consultancy firms to carry out this review.
49 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made to tackle high rates of unemployment among disabled workers since training and employment services for persons with disabilities were restructured in June 2000. [6138/05]
Broad employment and training objectives and polices to promote the employment of disabled people, including schemes, programmes and services, are reflected in the statements of strategy and business plans of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and FÁS. FÁS programmes and the various support measures are based on the policies of the Department, which are developed through a three dimensional approach involving the following: facilitating the progression of disabled people into sustainable employment through the development of their skills; stimulating awareness amongst employers of the contribution which disabled people can make to their business and encouraging companies to actively consider recruiting disabled people to fill their vacancies; and providing specific employment supports for disabled people and employers.
People with disabilities benefit from the full range of FÁS training programmes and services and FÁS also provides an extensive range of schemes and grants to promote the employment of people with disabilities in the private sector including the disability awareness training support scheme, employee retention grant, work and equipment adaptation grant, job interview interpreter grant, personal reader grant and employment support scheme.
In addition, FÁS also operates the following programmes on behalf of the Department: pilot programme for employment of people with disabilities, PEP — providing grant assistance for commercially viable enterprises of which at least 50% of the employees are people with disabilities and a supported employment programme — an open labour market initiative that works towards the placement of and support of people with different types and varying degrees of disability who need the initial support of a job coach to obtain or maintain employment. The numbers of disabled people, in the case of those with a self declared disability, who registered with FÁS between 2002 and 2004 were as follows:
|
2004 |
2003 |
2002 |
|
3,014 |
2,574 |
2,431 |
The numbers of disabled people placed by FÁS into employment, training and other options over the period were :
|
2004 |
2003 |
2002 |
|
4,812 |
4,791 |
5,572 |
These placement numbers refer to persons in receipt of disability allowance or disability benefit, and include disabled persons having completed FÁS employment programmes.
I was recently pleased to announce that €5 million is being provided to FÁS in 2005 to launch a new employment support scheme for people with disabilities. This funding will allow the introduction of a new full-time support scheme on a three-year pilot basis, aimed at increasing the numbers of disabled people in full-time employment in the open labour market. My Department's objective in the period ahead is to consolidate the significant value added in advancing the employment and training agenda since assuming policy responsibility for vocational training and employment for people with disabilities.
52 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department has plans to employ more labour inspectors and to give labour inspectors greater powers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6224/05]
64 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason for the major reduction in the number of inspections carried out by the labour inspectorate; the number of prosecutions initiated by the inspectorate during 2004 and the way in which this compares with 2003; if he intends to provide additional staff or resources for the inspectorate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6169/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 64 together.
The numbers of workplace inspections-visits undertaken by the labour inspectorate in 2003 was 7,168. The number of workplace inspections-visits undertaken was 5,160 in 2004 while 20 prosecutions initiated by the labour inspectorate in 2003. The labour inspectorate initiated 14 prosecutions. The reduced number of labour inspectorate workplace inspections-visits during 2004 relates to two factors. First, the successful Irish Presidency of the EU in the first half of the year placed significant demands on the labour inspectorate staff. Second, the mid-term review of Sustaining Progress provided that a review be carried out on the mandate and resourcing of the labour inspectorate.
The review was carried out by the staff of the labour inspectorate in the second half of 2004. As agreed in the mid-term review of Sustaining Progress, four additional inspectors were appointed earlier this year. This has increased the complement of inspectors to 21. The Review of the Mandate and Resourcing of the Labour Inspectorate contains a wide-ranging analysis of the various options regarding the powers of the inspectorate and the number of inspectors required in the future. The report is being considered by the social partners.
Employment rights legislation has provisions whereby workers who believe that they have been denied their entitlements, or otherwise unfairly treated, can, as an alternative to dealing with the labour inspectorate, take the matter before a commissioner in the rights commissioner service of the Labour Relations Commission.
53 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the establishment of an EU-wide corporate governance code in the context of increasing volumes of transnational trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6222/05]
As the Deputy may be aware, there is no EU-wide corporate governance code. It is a matter for the European Commission to initiate proposals. The Commission has studied the matter comprehensively and concluded that a European corporate governance code would not add significant value but would simply add an additional layer between international principles recently updated at OECD level and national corporate governance codes. The Commission's comparative study of national corporate governance codes revealed a remarkable level of convergence anyway.
However, the Commission also concluded that the self-regulatory approach that characterises corporate governance codes in most member states was not sufficient to guarantee sound corporate governance. Given the increased integration of European capital markets, it felt that the EU should adopt a common approach on a few essential rules and should ensure adequate monitoring of national corporate governance codes. To this end, the Commission, in its action plan on company law and corporate governance, published in May 2003, included a range of corporate governance initiatives, a number of which are in place while others are under negotiation or still being developed.
For example, the Commission has put in place a corporate governance forum drawn from relevant interest groups with the job of monitoring corporate governance developments and encouraging ongoing convergence and best practice in the member states. Ireland has a representative on this group. The Commission's action plan was endorsed by the Competitiveness Council in September 2003, the broad approach on the way forward on corporate governance shared by the member states. This is particularly so as far as having a European wide code is concerned.
While the focus at EU level is on corporate governance applicable to listed companies, at national level here improved corporate governance initiatives applicable to companies generally have been put in place in recent years as follows: proactive enforcement of the provisions of company law by the establishment and resourcing of the multidisciplinary Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement; increased penalties and additional resources to ensure companies meet their filing obligations with the Companies Registration Office; provision of new corporate governance requirements, for example, director's compliance statement in the Companies (Auditing and Accounting) Act 2003 — these do not apply to smaller companies; establishment of the company law review group on a statutory footing to ensure that the provisions of our company law are consolidated, modernised and simplified, thus making compliance easier; and establishment of IFSRA, which has the job of regulating the financial institutions and exercising important consumer protection powers as regards the provision of financial services to the consumer. Business, markets and the public want companies that operate good corporate procedures and practices throughout the EU.
55 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the policies his Department has formulated to help rural regions diversifying their economic development strategies in view of his commitment to this process; his plans to ensure that his Department optimises such strategies through the NSMC and the operations of Enterprise Ireland and InterTrade Ireland; and if he has given consideration to the potential benefits going forward of a shared development strategy between the relevant economic development agencies North and South. [6174/05]
73 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if there has been serious consideration within Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and InterTrade Ireland of the problems of industrial development for indigenous enterprise in the regions outside of Dublin; if there has been any cross-Border discussion between the Irish development agencies and Invest Northern Ireland on the potential for developing an integrated approach in the north west to harness the potential for economic development, especially in the context of optimising the potential of new economy enterprise; and if he will provide the details of any such plans or meetings. [6173/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 55 and 73 together.
I assure the Deputies that the Government, along with the State development agencies, is committed to balanced regional development, particularly through the implementation of the national spatial strategy and the Government's decentralisation programme. The State development agencies will continue to work together to attract investment and foster job creation in all regions, including the Border region and the north west.
Regarding the work of IDA, the board of IDA and the board of Invest Northern Ireland hold an annual joint board meeting to discuss enterprise development strategies, opportunities for collaboration and other topics of mutual interest. One important outcome of those high-level board meetings is a commitment to establish a cross-Border virtual business park centred on Letterkenny and Derry. IDA also attends meetings of the inter-agency planning managers' group involving Enterprise Ireland, InterTrade Ireland and Invest Northern Ireland. Those meetings are a further opportunity for discussion of common issues and exchange of information.
Enterprise Ireland seeks to encourage a balanced spread of regional development throughout all parts of Ireland. In that regard, Enterprise Ireland's policy objectives for balanced regional development are reflected in the structure of its grant-aid rates. In addition to the funding that it provides directly to clients in the form of equity investments and grants, Enterprise Ireland leverages the venture capital community to invest in early stage companies throughout the country.
Enterprise Ireland and InterTrade Ireland liaise frequently on matters of mutual concern and continue to explore areas for fruitful co-operation. The areas of mutual activity currently include stimulating cross-Border trade, through the Acumen programme, knowledge and technology transfer between academia and industry, through the Fusion programme, and benchmarking, through the Irish Benchmarking Forum, as well as sectoral studies and the development of the equity markets on the island.
In the case of Invest Northern Ireland, Enterprise Ireland works with its counterpart across a range of activities. Following a meeting between the chief executives of Enterprise Ireland and Invest Northern Ireland, together with their senior management teams, a meeting of the boards of Enterprise Ireland and Invest Northern Ireland was held in Dundalk during November 2004 to discuss their respective strategies, and further meetings are envisaged. The student enterprise awards are jointly sponsored by Enterprise Ireland, Invest Northern Ireland and Ulster Bank. Other areas of co-operation include sectoral studies and exchanges of experience at a senior level on the development of innovation.
Regarding the work of InterTrade Ireland, the all-island trade and business development body, it should be noted that InterTrade Ireland does not have a specific regional or sub-regional aspect to its programmes, all of which are all-island in nature and all of which are equally open to businesses from across the island. Under its corporate plan for the period 2005 to 2007, InterTrade Ireland is committed to enhancing the global competitiveness of the island economy to the mutual benefit of both parts of the island, through measures such as the creation of all-island business networks and the implementation of all-island trade and business development programmes. That strategic aim is consistent with recent statements on enterprise strategy both in this State and in Northern Ireland, which emphasise the importance of global competitiveness, innovation, knowledge and value-enhancing collaborative networks. InterTrade Ireland's new corporate plan specifically identifies the importance of collaboration between it and the other economic development agencies on this island. The body's commitment to this form of collaboration is clearly evidenced by the composition of the steering committees of its major programmes, which include representation from agencies North and South and also by the level of consultation which takes place both formally and informally between the agencies on an ongoing basis.
With regard to a possible shared strategy between economic development agencies North and South, it is the case that the recent enterprise strategy group's report has identified a role for North-South co-operation in infrastructure investment and in providing supports to enterprise. The report recognises the potential for collaboration at a business network level and recommends the development of all-island business networks where complementary strengths are identified. I will take into account any opportunities to advance North-South co-operation, for mutual benefit, in the future implementation of the enterprise strategy group's recommendations that relate to my Department.
The Deputy will be aware that the North-South Ministerial Council has been unable to meet since October 2002, due to the ongoing suspension of the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Deputy will also be aware that, following the introduction of suspension, the Irish and British Governments agreed that decisions of the North-South Ministerial Council on policies and actions relating to the North-South Implementation Bodies or their respective functions would be taken by the two Governments and that no new functions would be conferred on the bodies while the Assembly remained suspended. Those arrangements were designed to ensure that the bodies would continue to fulfil their important public functions on a "care and maintenance" basis, pending the restoration of devolved government to Northern Ireland.
57 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress in regard to his consideration of proposals to introduce legislation to provide for a new offence of corporate killing as recommended by the Law Reform Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6150/05]
The Law Reform Commission, in its consultation paper on corporate killing of October 2003, recommended that a new offence of corporate killing be established which would be prosecuted on indictment, without exclusion of any entity, whether incorporated or not. The offence would apply to acts or omissions of a high managerial agent, which would be treated as those of the undertaking.
To reflect the seriousness of the offence, the commission also recommended that the legislation should provide for an unlimited fine, or that, in certain circumstances, an individual high managerial agent should also be subject to imprisonment of up to five years. The commission is currently considering submissions on its consultation paper.
My Department is already in receipt of advice from the Office of the Attorney General to the effect that the issue of corporate killing has broad implications.
As I indicated during Committee Stage of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Bill 2004, which took place on 23 and 24 November last, Government policy is to await the review by the Law Reform Commission, which is due for publication in 2005, and then to decide what is to be done with regard to the issue of corporate manslaughter. The provisions in section 80 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Bill 2004 entitled Liability of Directors and Officers of Undertakings are more explicit regarding the assignment of responsibility than an existing provision in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989. However, it is worth noting that directors and managers of companies have in the past been prosecuted for failures under occupational safety law which resulted in death or serious injury to workers.
58 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to reports of significant differences between prices for many goods on this side of the Border, when compared with Northern Ireland, and to the fact that as a result many consumers are travelling to Northern Ireland to take advantage of these lower prices, with a consequent loss of trade; if the consumer consultative panel will examine this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6160/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply of 16 December 2004 to a question, reference no. 33743/04.
As advised in that reply, the consumer strategy group, which is due to present its final report shortly, as part of its work examined price trends in this jurisdiction compared with prices in other parts of Europe for a variety of goods and services. I expect that the group's report will detail its analysis of its price comparison examinations. I look forward to considering the group's analysis and any recommendations that it may make in this area. The group's report will be published. I intend to give the report prompt attention and consideration as soon as I receive it.
59 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department, in assessing the potential impact of REACH on competitiveness here, is also taking into account the impact of current instances of industrial misuse of chemicals and the improper disposal of chemical waste; if his Department has data on this subject; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6221/05]
My Department supports the proposed EU chemicals legislation, known as REACH, which proposes the establishment of a comprehensive regulatory framework governing the manufacturing and use of chemicals in the EU, with a view to protecting human health and the environment and maintaining and enhancing the competitiveness of EU industry. We are working to ensure that the new regime will be clear and workable and that the right balance will be achieved in meeting the REACH objectives.
To assist in assessing the potential impact on competitiveness in Ireland, Forfás has commissioned consultants to undertake an impact assessment study, which is expected to be finalised shortly. I understand that the key benefit reported by Irish industry in that study is the expected improvement to the availability of chemicals safety and risk management data. That is seen as being of greater benefit by smaller industries and downstream users, who may not have the resources to generate such data.
It is important to appreciate that even after the new regulation comes into effect, existing legislation, including requirements under the integrated pollution prevention and control and waste-licensing systems, will continue in operation. The primary legislation in those areas is the responsibility of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, with operational matters falling to the Environmental Protection Agency, which comes under the aegis of that Department. I understand, however, that information published by the EPA has shown some very positive trends regarding the eco-efficiency of the industrial sector, significant recycling of some industry wastes and progress regarding the level of hazardous waste produced in Ireland over recent years.
It is unclear what issues the Deputy has in mind in his reference to current issues of industrial misuse of chemicals. If the Deputy has a more specific query in that regard, perhaps he might forward details to me, and I will endeavour to assist him.
60 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the 3.3% drop in exports to EU accession states for the period to November 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6202/05]
Total exports from Ireland during the period in question, January to October 2004, amounted to €69.4 billion. That reflects an increase on the same period in the previous year of €1,498.9 million, or 2.2%. The total export sales to the ten new EU member states for the period from January to October 2004 amounted to €586.3 million. That reflects a 3.3%, or €20 million, decrease in exports to the region compared with the same period in 2003.
To date, exports to those markets from Ireland have been accounted for mainly by multinational companies operating here. For indigenous companies those markets are at a relatively early stage of development, and the Government, through Enterprise Ireland, is rolling out a market development offer to Irish companies to assist them to take full advantage of the export opportunities in those markets.
One example was the launch, in May 2004, of Enterprise Ireland's guide to developing economic activity in the new member states entitled Building Your Business in the EU Accession States, in which it outlined the scope for further substantial growth in export business with those markets via the sale of sophisticated products and services.
Another recent initiative is the Enterprise Ireland GCEE automotive business development programme, launched on 15 February 2005 to meet the growth requirement of Enterprise Ireland's industrial, software and services clients targeting the German and central and eastern Europe automotive sector as a primary market.
In addition to the numerous trade missions which have been organised to the majority of the new member states in recent years and the inward buyer visits from the ten which have taken place with Enterprise Ireland support, there will be another mission, to the Czech Republic, in April this year.
Enterprise Ireland has overseas offices in three of the ten new member states, namely, Poland, Hungary and the Czech Republic. Exports to those three countries account for 81% of all exports to the region, totalling €477.2 million in January to October 2004, up €13.6 million, or3%, on the previous period.
Exports to the ten new EU member states currently account for under 1% of total exports. I am confident that this proportion will increase over time as the benefits of the Single Market begin to come into effect. It is also true that an increasing number of Irish companies are viewing the potential of central and eastern European countries for competitive production with interest, and are using that potential to strengthen their Irish operations. In the longer term, I am confident that our economic relations with our new partners will achieve the levels which reflect the recognised potential.
63 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action he is taking to develop the manufacturing sector of the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6117/05]
Enterprise policy is being actively refocused towards creating conditions that will make possible a sustained shift to higher skill, knowledge-intensive activities and in which advanced manufacturing expertise will be an important contributor to growth and employment. That new focus is essential if our enterprises are to capture sustainable competitive advantage in niche markets that are less susceptible to cost-based competition. The range of incentives provided through the enterprise development agencies is designed to meet those objectives and help enterprise operate at higher levels of skill, undertake higher-order strategic investments, product development and innovation. The agencies are active and supportive partners with enterprise in helping new, market-oriented investment projects.
As Ireland becomes more economically sophisticated, services will become a much more important source of wealth and employment creation. Because of the importance of manufacturing, however, we cannot afford to be complacent about any consistent long-term erosion in employment in such an important economic sector.
Manufacturing remains at the heart of overseas investment and is likely to do so for a considerable time. That is reflected in changes to tax rules to encourage more research and development activity to take place here, particularly in the area of high-value-added and customer-driven innovation. The sustainability of employment levels in manufacturing is heavily tied to the sustainability of their competitiveness in delivering products and services in Ireland and in export markets. To that end Enterprise Ireland is working with its client base to improve the productivity of this important aspect of our industrial base.
The Government is committed to developing a competitive economy that will be resilient to competitive pressures from today's global economy. That involves maintaining a pro-business environment that will provide firms with a solid stable platform from which they can successfully compete on both domestic and international markets. Our economic and enterprise policies are designed to promote deeper, stronger and more profitable connections with global markets, and to make Ireland one of the most attractive locations in the world from which to do business.
67 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action he intends to take to bring alternative employment to Ballyshannon in County Donegal following the closure of a company (details supplied) with the loss of 54 jobs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6195/05]
It was with regret that I learnt of the announcement by Donegal Parian China that it intends to close its plant in Ballyshannon, County Donegal, with the loss 54 jobs.
I understand that the decision to close is due to a reduction in demand. However, I am also advised that the company is to consolidate its production in its existing Belleek facility and that some 15 of the 54 Donegal employees may be offered employment in Belleek.
The role of FÁS will be particularly important in assisting those who are to lose their jobs. The agency will make its full range of services available to the workers, including advice and training opportunities.
In addition to the foregoing, Enterprise Ireland is also providing information and support for those that might wish to start their own businesses.
On 2 December last I visited north Donegal and met several groups and companies. I undertook that visit in recognition of the relatively difficult employment situation in Donegal. It is also my intention, in the very near future, to visit south Donegal and meet local interest groups to discuss the employment situation.
IDA Ireland is actively marketing all areas of Donegal for new investment and jobs and has invested significant moneys in developing a business park to international standards in Letterkenny. In Ballyshannon itself, the agency has obtained planning permission for a new facility, and a significant amount of site development work has been completed. Also in Ballyshannon, Enterprise Ireland has recently partnered with the local community development company, Erne Enterprise, to develop new high-quality enterprise space. Enterprise Ireland is providing €300,000 in support to this new 10,000 sq. ft. enterprise centre.
While IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland continue to work with their existing company client base to encourage them to grow, the Donegal County Enterprise Board continues to be active in helping new and existing micro-enterprises in the county.
I can assure the Deputy that tackling the difficulties in Donegal is a priority, a point which I have also reiterated to the State development agencies operating in Donegal.
69 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the finding in the CSO’s population and labour force projections, which suggested that Ireland will need 50,000 immigrants a year over the next 12 years to meet labour force needs; the way in which he intends to respond to the projection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6156/05]
Economic migration policy in Ireland is predicated on economic needs, and it therefore addresses identified labour and skills shortages. As the economy grew in recent years, there was a consequential increase in the demand for labour. Where suitable workers were not available in Ireland or the wider European Economic Area, which consists of the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein and, for this purpose, Switzerland, the shortage was catered for through the work permit system.
In a gesture of solidarity with the ten new EU member states, the Government decided to allow free movement to nationals of those countries from accession on 1 May 2004. Because a large proportion of work permits issued in recent years had been granted to nationals of the ten countries in question, it was decided that future economic migration from outside the European Economic Area would be confined to higher-skilled or higher-paid personnel.
In 2004, 34,000 work permits were issued, of which over 10,000 related to new applications. In addition, in excess of 50,000 nationals of the ten new member states entered the State from May to December 2004.
Also, the new employment permits Bill now being finalised will contain provisions which will enable me to respond quickly and flexibly to skills shortages in the economy.
Taking account of those developments and the CSO projections to which the Deputy refers, in combination with the numbers of returning Irish emigrants, I am satisfied that Ireland's labour needs will be met in the years ahead.
70 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the reason, despite an increase in export sales of €1 billion among Enterprise Ireland’s client firms, there was a net job loss of 1,317 in 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6191/05]
Issues relating to job creation and retention in Enterprise Ireland client companies are day-to-day matters for the agency itself, and not one in which I am directly involved.
Enterprise Ireland informs me that the resurgence in the international economy was reflected in the increase in Enterprise Ireland client export sales during 2004. Irish companies delivered a solid performance during the year, delivering on the growth revival experienced in the latter part of 2003. Companies in the services and high-tech manufacturing sectors, namely, software, ICT, digital media, financial services and health care account for the majority of those increases in export sales, whereas companies operating in the more traditional manufacturing sectors such as food showed more modest increases.
The positive impact of international market improvements is reflected first in export sales, as illustrated in the €1 billion increase in export sales during 2004. However, the impact on employment can take several months and even years to be fully realised. Factors which influence the time lag include the time taken to recruit and train staff, secure significant international contracts and sales, locate and acquire a suitable site for the companies' operations, construct the facility and install plant and machinery.
Enterprise Ireland recorded a net fall in employment between 2003 and 2004 of 1,317. That reflects a 60% reduction in the net losses compared to the preceding 12-month period, based on strong performance of the high-tech sectors, in particular those companies supported under the Enterprise Ireland high-potential start-up division, as well as the many expansion projects undertaken by Enterprise Ireland-established client companies in the past number of years.
The majority of job losses — 90% of the total — recorded in Enterprise Ireland-supported firms occurred in the food sector, which is facing fundamental change largely driven by CAP reform and WTO negotiations. Ever-changing consumer preferences, rationalisation at retail and production levels, trade liberalisation and increased competition from lower-cost economies will present major challenges to that sector in the years ahead. Enterprise Ireland and other State agencies will continue to assist companies in the sector to increase competitiveness, undertake research and development into new products, and assist penetration into new export markets.
71 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the claim made by a trade union leader (details supplied) that safety on the nation’s building sites was deteriorating rather than improving; the number of persons killed and injured in accidents on building sites during 2004; the steps being taken to deal with this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6167/05]
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989, the National Authority for Occupational Safety and Health, known as the Health and Safety Authority, is the State body charged with overall responsibility for administration, enforcement and promotion of workplace safety and health.
The management of health and safety in all sectors of employment is based on the principles of legislation, enforcement, information and awareness-raising, coupled with a partnership approach involving all the main players. The partnership approach was further advanced with the establishment, in November 1999, of the Construction Safety Partnership, or CSP, which includes representatives of the CIF, ICTU, HSA and other relevant agencies and Departments. The overall aim of the CSP is to achieve the highest possible standard of safety, health and welfare in Irish construction.
The Health and Safety Authority is fully committed to furthering the principles agreed by the CSP and is actively engaged with all parties to the CSP in enhancing safety, health and welfare on sites.
Among the major initiatives undertaken and ongoing are the safe pass and construction skills certification schemes. Greater employee representation in health and safety matters and the safety representative facilitation scheme has been further supported to continue the work of increasing safety consultation on sites.
In 2004, HSA inspectors visited over 5,000 construction sites and closed 26, one by court order and 25 by agreement, until safety deficiencies were remedied and safety management systems put in place.
The HSA also has an advisory role illustrated by a range of initiatives including the development of a code of practice for safety in roof work, the development of a code of practice for avoiding danger from underground services, the approval of Irish Standard 360: 2004 Code of Practice: Safe Use of Cranes in the Construction Industry as a code of practice for the purposes of the safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2001, and ongoing drafting work on the development of a wide range of other construction safety guidance material.
The authority recently published a new aid, the safe system of work plan, or SSWP, aimed at reducing injuries and deaths on construction sites. That initiative relies on pictograms to explain and clarify hazards and controls, thereby creating a wordless document where safety can be communicated to all workers, regardless of language skills. The safe system of work plan aims to focus on those in the construction industry who are most at risk and empowering them to ensure that all necessary safety controls are in place prior to the commencement of planned work.
The attached table shows the key employment and accident figures for the construction industry in the last six years.
|
Year |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
|
Fatalities |
16 |
15 |
17 |
21 |
13 |
15 |
|
Total Employed |
142,100 |
166,300 |
180,200 |
188,500 |
190,400 |
206,000* |
|
Rate per 100,000 |
11.3 |
9.0 |
9.4 |
11.1 |
6.4 |
7.3* |
|
Accidents Reported |
601 |
1,108 |
1,059 |
1,121 |
1,031 |
1,474* |
*Figures for 2004 are provisional and will be included in the 2004 annual report of the Health and Safety Authority.
72 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the recent consumer prices average analysis for Dublin and outside Dublin produced by the CSO which showed a wide variation in prices being charged for goods and services throughout the country and which disclosed that a number of items in Dublin were consistently more expensive than in other parts of the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6161/05]
The analysis to which the Deputy refers resulted from an initiative whereby data for average prices in Dublin and outside Dublin in May 2004 was published by the Central Statistics Office last July — drawn from the national average prices published for the consumer price index. This initiative, which resulted from close co-operation between my Department, the CSO, the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs, the Consumers' Association of Ireland and Forfás, continued with the publication of figures for November being brought forward to December. I issued a statement on the 16 December welcoming the analysis and outlining my reaction to it.
The aim of this initiative is to provide data to consumers on prices, given that differences in the prices of goods and services are an ongoing aspect of an open economy. I have noted that 48 of the 73 prices involved in the analysis were higher in Dublin than outside of Dublin with 24 lower and one showing no difference. Prices in Dublin for meat, fish and most fruit and vegetables were generally higher but prices of most of the other food products were lower except standard and large eggs, spaghetti and orange juice.
It should be noted that the prices of goods and services are determined by factors such as outlet location and size, brand and quality. The location of a business will have implications for costing of any goods and services provided in terms of overheads such as transport, rent and insurance.
The data also provides consumers with an indication of the average prices for 73 goods and services. Consumers in Dublin, for example, could note an average price in November for various cuts of meat and compare this with the prices they were paying. They could also note that the average price for a litre of milk in November was 80 cent, a white sliced loaf was €1.06, a pint of stout was €3.73 and a ladies' wash, cut and blow dry €33.14. Consumers outside Dublin were paying 88 cent, €1.16, €3.42 and €29.86 for these goods and services. With this information in hand consumers were in a position to shop around for cheaper alternatives or to ask suppliers providing these goods and services at higher prices why they were charging above the average.
My Department proposes to continue building on this initiative in order to get more user-friendly data to consumers on prices and will continue to work with the CSO, ODCA, CAI and Forfás in this regard. In addition, I will continue to support the work of the Competition Authority on an ongoing basis and the work of the Director of Consumer Affairs who has been proactively undertaking price surveys and bringing their results to the attention of the public.
While we are working on getting information to consumers, we also need to support consumers so that they can be confident in raising queries with suppliers. Arising from the concern about the imbalance between consumers and more vocal and more powerful lobbies the consumer strategy group was set up last March and I await formal publication of its report. I will be carefully considering the group's findings and recommendations and I look forward to building on its work and to developing a modern and responsive consumer policy for the years ahead.
75 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he intends to introduce further measures to make the personal banking sector more competitive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6214/05]
The Competition Authority published a report on the banking sector on 14 December 2004 which was prepared in conjunction with economic consultants LECG. The report contains 40 recommendations designed to enhance competition between banks for the benefit of personal banking customers and SMEs. Interested parties were invited to submit comments on the remedies to the competition issues outlined in the report by 14 February 2005, after which the authority will publish a final report and recommendations. On receipt of the authority's final report, I will consider the recommendations with a view to enhancing competition in the sector.
76 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made with regard to the Government’s proposals to provide legal protection on a sectoral basis for whistleblowers who may wish to expose illegalities or wrongdoing on the part of their employers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6145/05]
As I outlined to the House on 16 December 2004 in reply to a previous question on this issue, a provision has been included in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Bill 2004, which is currently awaiting Report Stage. This Bill provides for protection against dismissal and penalisation of employees who, in good faith, take steps to protect themselves or others in a workplace situation.
77 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which he has monitored relocation of jobs to lower wage economies; if it is intended to put in place measures to combat this trend; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6226/05]
Relocation is just one factor in the many enterprise related issues that determine employment levels. Firms invest in different regions for a variety of reasons and while there is little doubt that some firms establish themselves primarily to take advantage of reduced costs in lower wage economies this is often not the only factor in deciding where to invest. It is not possible to monitor the extent to which jobs are relocated to lower wage economies with any degree of accuracy or to determine the employment change arising directly from just one aspect affecting the enterprise economy.
The competitive characteristics of our enterprise base has made a reliance on low technology, basic manufacturing less sustainable than it was in the past. There has been a fundamental shift in the strengths and competitive advantages of our economy, which is now typified by higher output and productivity together with high returns to labour in the form of wages, salaries and better living standards. Clearly, a more attractive cost environment abroad will inevitably attract some firms that are unable to produce in the high-wage, high skill environment of modern Ireland. The continuing structural transformation of our economy is inevitable. With this, some plant transfers and other adjustments are bound to come, but where relocation has occurred to date, it has largely been limited to relatively low-technology, labour-intensive activities.
To counterbalance the competitive threat from lower cost competitor economies, our policy is to encourage a move to higher levels of competitiveness and value added products and services. Sustainable employment will be driven by companies with higher profitability, that are more technologically advanced and prove a better fit with the competitive characteristics of our economy and that are therefore less likely to move on the basis of simple cost influences. This new investment will be sourced by a combination of developing existing clients and new investors in existing or new activities or sectors. Given the critical mass of FDI in Ireland and its linkages with indigenous companies, one of the greatest potential contributions will come from developing companies already operating here. The enterprise development agencies are working to encourage companies into more sophisticated activities where competitive advantage is less likely to be whittled away by cost based competition.
79 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons on community employment places at 1 January 2003, 1 January 2004 and 1 January 2005; the anticipated number at 31 December 2005; if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties faced by many community and voluntary groups due to the shortage of community employment places; if changes are planned with regard to eligibility to participate in the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6157/05]
FÁS employment programmes, which comprise community employment, social economy and job initiative, will provide a total of 25,000 places in 2005. I am informed by FÁS that the number of participants on community employment was 24,991 in January, 2003, 19,848 in January 2004 and 22,194 in January 2005.
On foot of a review of FÁS employment schemes, which included detailed consultations with the social partners, I decided that with effect from 10 November 2004 the three year cap would be removed for CE participants aged 55 or over. This category of participants is now eligible to participate on community employment for a maximum of six years. The extension of the participation cap from three to six years for over 55s should ensure that there will be sufficient clients to fill the available places. The practice of ring-fencing and prioritisation for the essential services of child care, health related services and drugs task force clients are being maintained.
The continuation of ring-fencing and the extended participation on community employment by older workers will help to secure the continuity of community services generally and will ensure that the existing community service support framework will be maintained.
81 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the recent call from ICTU for a major initiative to salvage manufacturing jobs following the major series of job losses announced during January 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6170/05]
In the past few years Irish manufacturing firms, particularly in the more traditional sectors, have operated against a backdrop of significantly declining external demand, downward price pressure, and an increasingly competitive international environment — China, central and eastern Europe — together with upward pressure on costs and the strengthening of the euro against our key trading partner currencies. In an increasingly globalised economy lower skilled manufacturing type operations are migrating to lower wage economies. The replacement of the inevitable job losses is a tough challenge.
My Department is working closely with the development agencies and industry to address this issue and seeks to support new and existing firms at all stages of business development and in a balanced regional manner.
During 2005, the 35 city and county enterprise boards will continue to actively co-operate with both the south and east and Border, midlands and west regional assemblies in developing indigenous micro-enterprises throughout the regions. The boards provide a comprehensive system of capital and employment grants, support, mentoring, and training and development initiatives for new and existing micro-enterprises.
Enterprise Ireland, the agency which has prime responsibility for supporting indigenous industry, provides funding for innovation development, upskilling within client companies and developing export opportunities in overseas markets. In addition, the agency provides advice and referrals for clients to improve their competitive position.
Enterprise Ireland's competitiveness fund was set up to help small and medium enterprises, SMEs, overcome distinctive competitiveness difficulties. Under this fund, which closed in mid-2004, 97 applications, to the value of just under €12 million, were approved for companies predominantly operating in the traditional manufacturing sectors. The total investments forecast in these firms as a result of Enterprise Ireland investments will amount to over €41 million over a two year period. This investment, together with other Enterprise Ireland supports and services, has revitalised many firms in these sectors, ensuring continued commitment to employment and sales in the Irish economy.
IDA Ireland is the agency charged with attracting foreign direct investment to this country. In its end of year statement for 2004, IDA Ireland has stated that manufacturing remains at the heart of overseas investment in the Irish economy. However, the quality of these investments and the types of jobs have changed considerably in recent years. In order to achieve a continuing high level of FDI and of investment from existing clients, IDA Ireland is concentrating more resources on helping to underpin the competitiveness of existing overseas companies in Ireland, by encouraging existing clients to move up the value chain into higher value products and services and into higher order functions, such as R & D. It seeks out niches of business in which Ireland can carve out world market leadership in a medium term.
I am confident that the strategies and policies being pursued by the development agencies, together with the ongoing commitment of Government to regional development will bear fruit in terms of additional sustainable investment and jobs for the people of this country.
83 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether there are benefits in bringing in proposals requiring transparency of the levels of executive pay within State owned or publically quoted companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6223/05]
The determination of levels of executive pay within companies and firms generally is primarily a matter for the individual company or firm and I have no proposals to intervene in the matter at present.
It is a requirement of the listing rules of the Irish Stock Exchange that publicly quoted companies disclose annually the remuneration of the directors in their annual reports.
At EU level the European Commission recently adopted a recommendation relating to remuneration of directors of publicly quoted companies which member states will be required to implement by the middle of 2006. While a recommendation is not legally binding member states will be expected to comply with its principles and guidelines. Many of the principles and guidelines of this recommendation already apply to publicly quoted companies here on foot of the listing rules of the Irish Stock Exchange. However, one of the new elements provided for in the recommendation is that disclosure of directors pay extend to managing directors and chief executive officers of such companies regardless of whether or not they are members of the board of the company.
Matters relating to executive pay within State owned companies fall within the responsibilities of my colleague, the Minister for Finance.
86 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the implications for the work of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board of the decision of the High Court of 25 January 2005 upholding the right of clients to deal with the board through their legal representatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6143/05]
I understand that at this point the judge's ruling does not affect the majority of the approximately 3,000 cases currently being handled by the PIAB. Many accident victims are already successfully dealing directly with PIAB and the first awards under the system are due within the promised nine months time frame, without recourse to litigation and litigation costs.
I remain fully committed to the PIAB's primary objectives of reducing the cost of delivery of compensation to victims of accidents and reducing the time taken to process claims.
The judgment affects those who choose to engage a solicitor. Solicitors' costs will not be awarded by PIAB. Therefore, claimants ultimately have the choice of dealing directly with PIAB or engaging a solicitor with attendant costs.
88 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans he has to create one single national regulator; if such a regulator would be beneficial; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6211/05]
I am concerned to ensure that our national system of regulation encourages and promotes competition within the economy and that individual regulators recognise such objectives as an important national priority. Indeed, in this regard I am aware that the Competition Authority has already co-operation agreements in place with many of the existing sectoral regulators.
There is a danger that the scope of a single regulator would be too broad and that as a consequence speedy decision making would be hampered. Furthermore, the trend internationally is away from the concept of a consolidated regulator towards a sectoral approach.
I have no plans to establish a single national regulator and as none of the existing regulators come within my remit as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, this is not a matter for which I have any direct responsibility.
89 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will state the voluntary organisation which the Minister of State (details supplied) has met in his capacity as Minister of State since 1 September 2004. [6384/05]
Since 1 September 2004 to date, in his capacity as Minister for State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Tim O'Malley has met with the following voluntary organisations: Mental Health Ireland; NAMHI; Meath Suicide Awareness Group; Brothers of Charity Services; National Federation of Voluntary Bodies; Rosbrien Suicide Awareness Group; Caring for Carers; St. Mary's Drumcar; St. Munchins Group; Irish Patients Association, GROW; Offaly Alzheimers Society; Schizophrenia Ireland; The 3T's; One in Four Ireland; and Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary.
Also, in his capacity as Minister of State, Deputy Tim O'Malley has performed many launches and openings for various voluntary organisations.
90 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the procedures which have been established and are currently in place for the treatment of prisoners at the county hospital in Roscommon; the type of segregation facilities available both in the accident and emergency and in the main hospital itself; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6385/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the treatment of prisoners at the County Hospital Roscommon. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to theDeputy.
91 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of medical cards issued in counties Galway, Mayo and Roscommon; the number of persons covered in each respective county; the percentage of the population which is covered by a medical card; the respective figures for 2000 to 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6386/05]
The information requested by the Deputy is set out in tabular form below and refers to December of each year.
|
No. of medical cards in circulation |
No. of persons covered |
% of the population of that county covered |
|
|
2000 |
42,855 |
67,750 |
35.87 |
|
2001 |
45,617 |
70,394 |
37.27 |
|
2002 |
44,144 |
68,293 |
32.70 |
|
2003 |
44,572 |
67,244 |
32.16 |
|
2004 |
44,859 |
66,502 |
31.81 |
|
No. of medical cards in circulation |
No. of persons covered |
% of the population of that county covered |
|
|
2000 |
32,234 |
50,728 |
45.49 |
|
2001 |
33,025 |
50,999 |
45.73 |
|
2002 |
32,090 |
49,660 |
42.29 |
|
2003 |
32,176 |
48,680 |
41.45 |
|
2004 |
31,962 |
47,590 |
40.52 |
|
No. of medical cards in circulation |
No. of persons covered |
% of the population of that county covered |
|
|
2000 |
13,405 |
20,575 |
39.59 |
|
2001 |
13,845 |
20,894 |
38.14 |
|
2002 |
13,200 |
20,376 |
37.87 |
|
2003 |
13,598 |
20,165 |
37.50 |
|
2004 |
13,725 |
20,066 |
37.32 |
92 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the mechanism for recruiting nursing staff to health board residential nursing centres when extra staff are required, a nursing member of staff becomes ill or is unavailable for any reason; if private agencies are employed; the rate charged; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6402/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for recruiting nursing staff to HSE residential nursing centres when extra staff are required. Accordingly, my Department has requested the acting national director of human resources at the HSE to investigate the matters raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
93 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Question No. 48 of 17 February 2005, her views on whether best cancer patient outcomes are achieved when the three treatment modalities, surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy are available in one hospital location and the overall policy framework she is developing relates only to the development of private facilities on public hospital sites; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6406/05]
The Government's objective is to provide a model of cancer care which ensures that patients with cancer receive the most appropriate and best quality of care regardless of their place of residence. In order to achieve this objective, an integrated and co-ordinated approach is required, which encompasses prevention, screening, cancer treatment, including medical, surgical and radiation oncology, education, training and research.
Government policy in relation to radiation oncology services is based on the report on the development of radiation oncology services in Ireland. The group which prepared the report formulated guidelines for the development of additional radiation therapy facilities as follows: a sufficient patient population should exist within a proposed catchment area to support the future development of a radiation oncology service; a radiation oncology service should enable maximum patient access to the highest quality service; other clinical specialties and support services that enable the appropriate function and development of a radiation oncology centre and-or supra-regional cancer centre should exist on the site; radiation oncology must be part of organised multi-disciplinary cancer care; a radiation oncology service should take account of patient groups with special needs; a radiation oncology service should develop links between those hospitals providing radiation oncology care and other hospitals involved in the provision of cancer care but without physical treatment facilities; and where radiation oncology facilities are not available on site, it will be important to provide appropriate outreach services particularly through the development of joint clinical and other appointments between hospitals and-or health boards.
I am satisfied that the application of these guidelines in the development of radiation oncology services as part of a multi-disciplinary cancer service will best ensure that cancer patients have access to the highest quality of care. The Government is committed to making the full range of cancer services available and accessible to cancer patients throughout Ireland. To this end, we will provide considerable investment in radiation oncology facilities in the coming years.
We are determined to deliver enhanced services for the whole population as soon as possible. There is unanimity about the urgent need for significantly enhanced services in the major population centres of Dublin, Cork and Galway. I will keep the question of networked satellite locations under active review. The immediate developments in Cork and Galway will result in the provision of an additional five linear accelerators. Five additional consultant radiation oncologists are being recruited for this service. These developments will significantly improve access to radiotherapy for patients throughout the country.
As recommended in the report on the development of radiation oncology services in Ireland, the national radiation oncology co-ordinating group, NROCG, has been established. The group comprises clinical, technical, managerial, academic and nursing expertise from different geographic regions. The group's remit encompasses recommending measures to facilitate improved access to existing and planned services, including transport and accommodation. The group is expected to develop proposals in these important areas. The group will also advise on quality assurance protocols and guidelines for the referral of public patients to private facilities. The group is also in the process of developing a national telesynergy network for radiation oncology services which will enable hospitals to develop improved linkages with the supra-regional radiation oncology centres in Galway and Cork and St. Luke's Hospital in Dublin and reduce patient and consultant travel time.
In relation to the development of private facilities on public hospital sites, I am in the process of developing an overall policy framework which will identify the policy issues which need to be addressed and the key criteria to be applied. I hope to complete this work in a matter of weeks.
94 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans for improved accident and emergency services at Kerry General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6407/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of services at Kerry General Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's southern area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
95 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of beds in each of the hospitals in the public acute hospital sector. [6408/05]
The average number of beds available in acute hospitals for the period January to November 2004, the latest date for which figures are available, was 13,359. I am providing details by individual hospital separately to the Deputy.
96 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the amount of funding Cork University Hospital receives for its neurosurgical unit; the number of procedures carried out in this unit; and the number of inpatients and outpatients attending annually. [6409/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of services at Cork University Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's southern area to respond to the Deputy directly in relation to the information requested.
97 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of patients awaiting heart transplants nationwide; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6410/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for transplant services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the director of the national hospitals office at the Health Service Executive to investigate the matter raised and to reply to the Deputy directly.
98 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if tablets and injections (details supplied) will be restored on the GMS drug scheme to ensure that medical card patients with cancer are not disadvantaged in the range of medication they can have to counteract the side effects of their treatment. [6411/05]
There is a common list of reimbursable medicines for the general medical services and drug payment schemes. This list ensures equity between the schemes in relation to the range of medicines paid for by the State. The list is reviewed and amended monthly, as new products become available and deletions are notified.
For an item to be included on the common list, it must comply with a published list of criteria. These include authorisation status where appropriate, price and, in certain cases, the intended use of the product. In addition, the product should ordinarily be supplied to the public only by medical prescription and should not be advertised or promoted to the public.
A medical cardholder who experiences financial difficulty in obtaining items not on the common list should approach the health board for assistance.
There is an agreement in place between my Department, the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association and the Association of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers of Ireland on the supply terms, conditions and prices of medicines supplied to the health services, that is, the general medical services, other community drug schemes, Health Service Executive and hospitals. One of the conditions of the agreement is that the price to wholesaler of each item of medicine covered by the agreement may not be increased for the term of the agreement. The manufacturers of the product referred to by the Deputy applied to my Department for a price increase in December 2003 which was refused. The product was subsequently removed from the list of reimbursable drugs and medicines at the manufacturer's request. However, because of the indications for which this product is prescribed, my Department is reviewing the matter.
99 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children , further to Question No. 137 of 16 February 2005, if she will identify the 11 stand-alone psychiatric units; the stage of development these units are at for transfer to an acute general hospital; her view on whether patient care is compromised by this delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6412/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of mental health services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Health Service Executive to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
With regard to patient care, the Mental Health Commission has a remit to encourage and foster high standards and good practice in the delivery of mental health services. The Inspector of Mental Health Services, who is employed by the commission, inspects all mental health units once a year and her annual report is included with that of the commission, which is laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas.
100 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the new state of the art private hospital in Galway is being used for the treatment purchase fund: if not, if some treatments can be carried out outside the State at a much less charge; if, with regard to the rental charges for doctors in private hospital many unnecessary procedures that command high fees are carried out to justify the operational cost of the medical profession; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6413/05]
The national treatment purchase fund, NTPF, purchases procedures from private and public hospitals in Ireland. Where it is not possible to treat patients within a reasonable period in Ireland, either in public or private hospitals, arrangements can be made to refer the public patients for treatment abroad, having regard to quality, availability and cost. My Department has been informed by the fund that it has arranged for treatments to be carried out at the new private hospital in Galway.
The majority of procedures funded by the NTPF to date have been carried out in private hospitals in Ireland. In relation to the cost of these procedures, my Department has been assured by the fund that the prices negotiated by the NTPF compare favourably with the comparative benchmarks available for the costs of the vast majority of procedures.
I have no function regarding the operation of private hospitals in Ireland or in the delivery of the services they provide.
101 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will address the concerns raised by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6435/05]
The Mental Health Act 2001 was signed into law by the President in July 2001. However, its key provisions concerning the independent review of involuntary admissions have not yet been commenced. The Mental Health Commission, established under the provisions of the Act, is currently putting in place the infrastructure required for its commencement.
Under the provisions of the Mental Health Act 2001, mental health tribunals, operating under the aegis of the Mental Health Commission, will conduct a review of each decision by a consultant psychiatrist to detain a patient on an involuntary basis or to extend the duration of such detention. The review will be independent, automatic and must be completed within 21 days of the detention-extension order being signed. As part of the review process the mental health tribunal will arrange, on behalf of the detained person, for an independent assessment by a consultant psychiatrist and the commission will also operate a scheme to provide legal aid to patients whose detention is being reviewed by a tribunal.
While the detailed work programme of the Mental Health Commission is a matter for the commission itself to determine, in accordance with its statutory functions under the Mental Health Act 2001, I understand that the establishment of the mental health tribunals is a priority for the commission.
102 Mr. O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will report on requests from the Health Service Executive for increased funding to allow for the long-awaited redevelopment of the Millbrook Lawns health centre in Tallaght, Dublin 24; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6452/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of health centres. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and reply directly to the Deputy.
103 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the consultant staffing levels for psychiatry in each of the years 2000 to 2005. [6453/05]
The number of approved consultant psychiatrist posts in each of the years 2000 to 2005 as requested by the Deputy was as follows: 2000 — 225; 2001 — 246; 2002 — 261; 2003 — 276; 2004 — 281; and 2005 — 295, as at 23 February 2005. Source — National Hospitals Office-Comhairle, formerly Comhairle na nOspidéal.
104 Dr. Fitzpatrick asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the plans that are made for patients who may require admission for respite care, hospital care or nursing home care upon their return to Ireland, in the case of persons who are treated abroad under the national treatment purchase scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6454/05]
The question of providing after care for patients who have had their treatment arranged by the national treatment purchase fund, NTPF, outside the State is a matter for the fund. My Department has, therefore, asked the acting chief executive of the NTPF to reply directly to the Deputy on the matters raised.
105 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if persons who were accommodated in private nursing homes over the years and were charged and had their pensions retained to help discharge payments due, will be considered for refunds under the recent judgment from the Supreme Court; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6476/05]
My Department is studying the Supreme Court judgment in detail and will take on board all the consequences for policy and law arising from it. A special Cabinet sub-committee comprising the Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, the Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen, the Attorney General, Mr. Brady, and myself has been established to consider the issue of repayment in light of the judgment.
Persons who were in publicly contracted beds in private nursing homes are covered by the terms of the Supreme Court judgment. The Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990 regulates the private nursing home sector. Under the nursing home subvention regulations, the HSE is empowered to make a financial contribution to an individual towards the cost of his or her private nursing home care provided he or she qualifies on means and dependency grounds. In the case of private nursing home care the contract of care is between the individual and the private nursing home owner. Accordingly, the provisions of the Supreme Court judgment do not apply to individuals in private nursing homes who entered homes under the nursing home subvention scheme.
106 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the recent Supreme Court decision regarding the illegal imposition of charges on residents of nursing homes, it is the intention to give compensation in cases in which the person who paid the charges is deceased, to the lawful heirs of that person; if it intended to pay interest as part of the compensation; if it is intended to invoke the statute of limitations in regard to the compensation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6478/05]
My Department is studying the Supreme Court judgment in detail and will take on board all the consequences for policy and law arising from it. A special Cabinet sub-committee comprising the Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, the Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen, the Attorney General, Mr Brady, and myself has been established to consider the issue of repayment in light of the judgment. Full details of a repayment scheme will be announced as soon as possible.
107 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the full amount deducted from pensions of patients in State operated nursing homes in each year for the past six years. [6772/05]
In submissions for the Supreme Court's consideration of the constitutionality of the Health (Amendment) No. 2 Bill 2004, my Department provided estimates of the overall amounts deducted from people in publicly funded long-term residential places since 1976, based on the information available at the time. The amount estimated in relation to all relevant charges since 1976, a sub-set of which were charges relating to persons in State operated nursing homes, was €1.15 billion. The portion of this amount in respect of the past six years is in the order of €500 million.
The precise amounts of charges specifically made of patients in State operated nursing homes in each year are not available at present. My Department has requested the Health Service Executive to provide precise data for the amounts deducted from eligible patients regarding long stay charges in publicly funded long-stay residential units. Fully comprehensive information is not yet available covering the wide range of programmes concerned. The HSE has begun the process of collating this information and in this context my Department has asked the HSE to investigate the matter raised and reply directly to the Deputy.
108 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the reason the vehicle registration office in Roscommon is to be closed to the public; the reason alternative public access to the service is not being put in place as is the case in other parts of the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6374/05]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, as part of their modernisation programme, they have invested heavily in the provision of Internet based services and the Revenue on-line service, ROS, has been widely acknowledged as a major success both from a technological and customer service point of view. Revenue adds to the range of services available on ROS on an ongoing basis and during 2003 vehicle registration was added to the suite of on-line services. With the support of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, the service has become extremely popular and in January 2005 the percentage of new vehicles registered on-line reached 86%. As a consequence, the demand for contact services at vehicle registration offices has declined substantially.
The Revenue Commissioners have reviewed the implications of these changes and, having regard to the reduction in service demand, have decided to close a number of the smaller vehicle registration offices and consolidate the service in adjacent offices and to reduce the opening hours in others. Decisions on opening hours and closures were made on a case by case basis having regard to customer service demands and cost efficiency.
Revenue continues to provide a high level of service to car dealers, including dealers in Roscommon. Almost all vehicles are registered in real time, either on-line or by fax. Discussions have been held with SIMI on an ongoing basis about the new arrangements. Revenue will continue to market the use of on-line registration with a view to further increasing take-up.
109 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the total amount paid in fees in remuneration to a person (details supplied) for consultancy or other work carried out for or on behalf of his Department in respect of each year since 1998; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6436/05]
My Department paid the following gross amounts in fees earned by the person in question in the years mentioned by the Deputy:
|
€ |
|
|
1998 |
NIL |
|
1999 |
NIL |
|
2000 |
NIL |
|
2001 |
9,523.04 |
|
2002 |
48,759.13 |
|
2003 |
NIL |
|
2004 |
39,650.00 |
|
2005 (to date) |
9,555.00 |
Income tax and employee PRSI, including levy, totalling €19,041.04 in 2004 and €4,581.32 in 2005, were deducted from the amounts shown above for those years.
110 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance if there is any post within the Civil Service or public service, established or unestablished, which does not carry an incremental salary table; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6442/05]
A number of posts within the civil and public service have a single rate of pay rather than an incremental pay scale. These include senior posts such as Secretary General and equivalent levels in the Civil Service, county manager and a number of posts in State bodies, including chief executive officer posts. It is not unusual for single rates of pay to occur in specific posts where contracts are expected to have a short-term duration or special rates of pay have been agreed on an exceptional basis, making incremental progression less relevant. In these cases, the rate of pay reflects the nature of the appointment.
111 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if he will give further consideration to the request by a person (details supplied) in County Kildare under the 1994 disabled drivers-disabled passengers tax concession; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6468/05]
Qualification for the tax concessions under the disabled drivers and disabled passengers scheme is by reference to specified medical criteria, as set out in the 1994 regulations. In this regard, six different types of disablement are listed and a qualifying person must satisfy one or more of them. The six types of disablement are as follows: persons who are wholly or almost wholly without the use of both legs; persons who are wholly without the use of one of their legs and almost wholly without the use of the other leg such that they are severely restricted as to movement of their 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.
It is a fundamental requirement for admission to the scheme that the applicant meets the specified medical criteria and is in possession of a primary medical certificate to that effect, issued by the appropriate senior area medical officer who is an official of the local health board. I have no function in deciding whether individual certificates are issued. Where the issue of the required certificate is refused, this can be appealed to the disabled drivers medical board of appeal, an independent body, whose decision is final.
112 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the Southern Regional Fisheries Board intends not to renew commercial drift net salmon fishing licences for persons over 65 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6370/05]
The Control of Fishing for Salmon Order 2005, SI 72 of 2005, which I signed on 16 February last, authorises the issue of commercial salmon fishing licences by regional fisheries boards and prescribes the criteria under which those licences may be issued. There is no upper age limit specified within those criteria.
113 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if it is considered satisfactory that the onshore pipeline design for the gas terminal (details supplied) in County Mayo is an upstream pipeline that will carry raw, untreated odourless gas when Bord Gáis Éireann does not operate upstream pipelines and only transports clean odorised gas where mercaptan has been added for smell as a safety measure. [6374/05]
114 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if it is considered satisfactory that the onshore pipeline design for the gas terminal (details supplied) in County Mayo does not conform to IS 328:2000, the code of practice for gas transmission pipelines and installations, as operated by Bord Gáis Éireann. [6375/05]
115 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if it is considered satisfactory that the onshore pipeline trench connecting the wellhead to the refinery at the gas terminal (details supplied) in County Mayo will carry an upstream pipeline of 20 in. in length, a waste pipe of 10 in. and umbilical cable operating at pressure of 610 bar, when Bord Gáis Éireann carries just one pipe in its trench lines. [6376/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 113 to 115, inclusive, together.
At the outset, I inform the Deputy that the questions posed by him in regard to the design of the upstream pipeline compared to the design of the transmission pipelines used by Bord Gáis Éireann do not compare like with like.
Transmission pipelines used by Bord Gáis Éireann are designed using IS 328. In the case of the Corrib onshore gas pipeline, BS8010 is used for the design code. IS 328 has been used as a supplement to BS8010 where it was considered beneficial. Design codes in general allow themselves to be supplemented by other similar codes where they are either silent or do not provide clear guidance. What is not normally permitted is for sections of one design code to be substituted by another one.
The Corrib onshore pipeline has certain design considerations, which are unusual and unique both within Ireland and also within Europe, and for this reason there is no direct precedent. The design requires consideration to be given to the choice of design code best suited to the project. The Corrib export pipeline has, for the onshore section, an extremely high design pressure of 345 bar. Thus, the pipeline is well above the normal design pressure experienced for onshore distribution gas pipelines. This has resulted from the relatively rare occurrence where the pipeline is connected directly to the producing wells and not via an intermediate platform or processing facility as happens in most other cases.
Since the onshore pipeline has no direct precedent either within Ireland or elsewhere for the reasons stated above, it is clear that strict use of the Irish design standard applied to all Bord Gáis Éireann transmission and distribution pipelines, IS 328, results in a design that is not optimised for wall thickness and less practical to construct.
The Deputy is aware that an independent evaluation of the onshore pipeline design code was commissioned by my Department. This was carried out by Mr. Andrew Johnston, an experienced petroleum pipeline consultant. His report, Corrib Gas Pipeline Project: Report on Evaluation of Onshore Pipeline Design Code, was submitted to my Department on 28 March 2002 and its recommendations have been included as conditions attaching to the consent to construct pipelines issued in April 2002.
Mr. Johnston concluded as follows: the pipeline design code has been selected in accordance with best public safety considerations and is appropriate for the pipeline operating conditions; the design of the onshore pipeline is generally in accordance with code selection and best national and international industry practice, provided that the actions recommended in section 2.2 of his report are followed; the pipeline is considered to be adequately protected from third-party interference by burial to 1.2 m and provision of marker tape above the pipeline; and the pipeline is considered to meet public safety requirements as outlined in the selected design code, provided that the actions recommended in section 2.2 are followed. As stated above, the recommendations of section 2.2 have been incorporated in the statutory approvals issued for the Corrib pipeline development. I have forwarded a copy of Mr. Johnston's report to the Deputy.
I should also point out that the upstream pipeline will be buried in a trench generally of 2 m in depth adjacent to the umbilical and the waste pipe in the same trench. While the umbilical will carry high-pressure liquids the volumes are very small and the umbilical will also be buried to a depth of 2 m so these liquids will pose no threat to people in the area.
116 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties with the call signs which are mandatory for the allowance of owners to purchase safety beacons with regard to the difficulties encountered on licensing of hundreds of small boats; if, in view of the delays in providing the VHF courses, the difficulties for private boat owners to arrange a private radio course and the prohibitive cost associated with it, he will extend the deadline date in March 2005 for a number of weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6423/05]
The Deputy's reference to licensing relates to the scheme for the licensing of traditional pot-fishing boats in the Irish inshore fleet. The implementation of this scheme is a matter for the Licensing Authority for Sea-fishing Boats, which operates on an independent basis subject to criteria set out in the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003. This Act provides that the licensing authority shall not grant a fishing boat licence unless an independent survey of the boat confirms that it is safe and seaworthy.
I understand from the licensing authority that last July, letters of licence offer were issued to the successful applicants under that scheme, specifying the conditions to be complied with in order for their boats to be licensed, including the requirement that the boats comply with the code of practice on the safety of fishing vessels less than 15 m in overall length.
Radio regulations governing all sizes of fishing vessels were introduced in 1998. All fishing vessels must comply with the requirements of the Fishing Vessel (Radio Installations) Regulations 1998 and are surveyed in accordance with the Fishing Vessel (Radio Installations Survey) Regulations 1999. The enforcement of these regulations is carried out by the marine survey office of the Department, which inspects vessels to ensure they are complying with the safety standards laid down.
While Bord Iascaigh Mhara provides radio courses, there are also a number of radio courses provided by private operators in the market which comply with the code of practice guidelines and regulations. Ensuring the safety of both the vessel and its crew is the paramount issue and I urge all fishermen to take the responsible approach to ensure that both radio equipment and the requirements regarding the training of radio personnel are fully complied with.
The licensing authority set a deadline of 11 March this year for compliance with all the conditions of the licence offer. This deadline was set having regard to European Community requirements that the licensing and registration of all fishing boats be completed as soon as possible. I understand from the licensing authority that where applicants have difficulty meeting this deadline due to the practicalities of arranging necessary training and securing the required radio competency certification, the authority will allow some extra weeks to give them an opportunity to comply with the requirements of the code of practice. However, it is not in a position to grant a substantial extension due to the need to ensure that Ireland complies with European Community requirements on the registration of fishing boats.
117 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the recent opening in Dublin of the new embassy of Lesotho; the consideration he has given to opening an embassy in that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6450/05]
The Government approved the opening of an embassy of Lesotho in Dublin in January 2003. The embassy was formally opened on Wednesday, 16 February 2005, by Prime Minister Mosisili of Lesotho. My colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Conor Lenihan, represented the Government at the opening ceremony.
Ireland has had resident diplomatic representation in Lesotho since an aid office was opened there in 1974. Ireland is currently represented by a consul general based in the capital, Maseru. The opening of new Irish missions and the upgrading of existing missions is considered by the Government on an ongoing basis. As the Deputy will appreciate, however, constraints on Government expenditure, and the limits on the resources that can be made available, require that the expansion of our diplomatic network must be incremental and be based on a thorough assessment of the costs and benefits involved.
At present, there are no immediate plans to change the status of our diplomatic representation in Lesotho.
118 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the date in which he intends to announce the swimming pools funded under the local authority swimming pool programme in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6391/05]
There is no set date for an announcement on the approval of projects under the local authority swimming pool programme. There are four principal stages in the grant process — preliminary report, contract documents, tender approval and construction and specific ministerial approval are required before a project can move from one stage to the next stage.
Approval for projects in 2005 will depend on a range of factors, including available funding in the Department's multi-annual capital envelope for the local authority swimming pool programme, the availability of project financing in the local authority, some of which have more than one project within the programme. In addition, such factors as compliance with technical and procedural requirements at each of the various stages of the process and the nature of managerial arrangements must also be taken into account.
119 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the 20 key North-South actions being promoted by the IBEC-CBI Joint Business Council; the measures his Department is taking to advance the key actions identified by the IBEC-CBI Joint Business Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6437/05]
I am aware of the excellent work of the IBEC-CBI Joint Business Council in promoting economic co-operation on the island of Ireland over many years. At its meeting on 8 March next, the joint business council proposes to formally endorse an action plan for the period 2005-6. The action plan will comprise key actions drawn from more than 100 recommendations contained in a number of North-South joint business council reports and will, I understand, cover a range of issues within the remits of various Departments.
I very much welcome this initiative by the business council and look forward to discussing with it, after its adoption of the action plan, how best to advance those actions which concern areas for which my own Department is responsible.
120 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the way in which entrepreneurship in Ireland is supported and encouraged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6378/05]
Entrepreneurship in Ireland is supported and encouraged by the constant pursuit and promotion by the Government of an economic environment supportive of entrepreneurial activity combined with a wide range of targeted interventions by various State enterprise development agencies.
Ireland's extraordinary success over the past decade has been built on key competitive strengths such as having one of the lowest taxation regimes in Europe, access to the EU's Internal Market, a well educated and skilled workforce and a history of pursuing Government policies that are pro business and provide a benign business environment. The Government is committed to the continued support and development of these strengths.
The Government also supports the relevant State agencies in the delivery of a wide range of interventions that are designed to encourage and support entrepreneurs. Examples include the training and mentoring provided to new entrepreneurs and micro-enterprises by the network of 35 city and county enterprise boards. The boards also promote entrepreneurship within schools through their schools enterprise programmes including the annual student enterprise awards scheme.
Enterprise Ireland is responsible for helping and supporting the development of new Irish enterprises, built on successfully harnessing the creativity and innovation of home grown entrepreneurs. Examples of the programmes run by Enterprise Ireland include the enterprise platform programme, a one-year rapid incubation programme designed to provide hands-on support and management development for entrepreneurs who wish to start their own business. The State, through Enterprise Ireland, is also actively engaged in supporting the establishment of the necessary physical infrastructure to facilitate new and emerging innovative businesses.
Enterprise Ireland is working with third level institutes of technology to develop on-campus incubation centres to facilitate the generation of new, high growth companies. A new initiative has been put in place which will see the institutes of technology receive up to €30 million for the establishment of business incubation centres. It is expected that by the end of 2005 all institutes of technology will have their own incubation centre.
In the mid-west region, Shannon Development's new business department is based in the Limerick InnovationWorks facility on the National Technology Park, Limerick. InnovationWorks is part of the Shannon Development knowledge network which has delivered a number of world class locations across the region for living and working in the knowledge age.
Shannon Development's venture development process is the engine by which high potential entrepreneurs and firms are supported at each stage in their growth and development cycle. An important module in that process is the venture start one programme, designed for people considering a career move and the entrepreneurship option. It offers them an opportunity to explore the entrepreneurship process, what it involves and helps them to determine if entrepreneurship is the route that they should take.
The national training and employment authority, FÁS, organises a range of courses aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship and business formation. These include courses in assessing business opportunities to provide the participants with the skills and related knowledge that will enable them to assess business opportunities; business appraisal training programme to develop and appraise the participants' enterprise skills; provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge required to assess the feasibility of business projects; help them identify any further action/training required to set up in business and prepare a business plan outlining the viability of the project. Other courses include start your own business which provides participants with the knowledge and skills to understand the key elements/processes required in starting a business and to conduct a personal assessment and to conduct a business assessment.
The critical role of entrepreneurship is fully recognised by the Government and the actions being taken are achieving the objective of ensuring that we have an entrepreneurial society. The 2004 Global Entrepreneurship Monitor report, the premier cross-national assessment of entrepreneurship, shows Ireland performing extremely well in entrepreneurship activity; Ireland is second in total entrepreneurial activity among EU member states.
122 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs likely to be created in County Kildare in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6455/05]
Support for job creation and investment in individual counties is a day-to-day operational matter for the development agencies. IDA Ireland has responsibility for foreign direct investment. Enterprise Ireland concentrates on the indigenous sector and the county enterprise boards have primary responsibility for the promotion of indigenous industry in the micro-enterprise sector. While the agencies caution that decisions regarding investments and job creation are ultimately a matter for individual investors, they are optimistic in regard to job creation from new and expansion projects in 2005.
Enterprise Ireland is actively involved in assisting Kildare-based client companies to grow and develop their businesses, with a view to facilitating the creation of new jobs and the retention of existing jobs. Over the past three years the agency has approved €9.3 million in support to companies to help them grow their sales and exports and improve innovation and new product development to compete on world markets. Enterprise Ireland is supporting the development of community enterprise centres in County Kildare at Allenwood, Clane and Athy, which when fully operational, are expected to significantly contribute to further job creation.
One main sector of indigenous industry in County Kildare is food and consumer products. This sector accounts for a major part of the employment growth within the county. Green Isle Foods in Naas, for example, has already announced expansion plans which are expected to create 130 jobs.
IDA Ireland advises that significant developments in overseas investment were announced for the county in 2004, such as the largest ever ICT investment in the country by Intel of €1.6 billion and a €21.4 million technology development centre by Hewlett Packard. County Kildare has benefited from a significant investment in recent years in technological infrastructure in the National University Ireland, Maynooth. This will be the key to ensuring that County Kildare is an attractive location for knowledge-based industry in future years.
While it is difficult to predict foreign direct investment in 2005, the agency expects employment trends to continue, with overseas companies in the county such as Wyeth Medica, Oral B, Tegral Products, IFS, all continuing to provide solid job opportunities.
One of the main priorities for the Kildare County Enterprise Board in 2005 will be to continue to meet with existing and potential entrepreneurs who are starting or growing their business. In 2004 the board paid out over €341,457 in grant assistance to micro-enterprises in the region. The board advises that they will be making every effort to ensure that available funds in 2005 are targeted to maximise entrepreneurial development in the county, thereby continuing to deliver on their record of employment development in the area.
The latest live register figures show that unemployment in the county has decreased from 4,921 in January 2004 to 4,430 in January 2005, a decrease of almost 10%. This data indicates that any job losses that may have occurred in the county are being offset by employment opportunities in other sectors.
The strategies and policies being pursued by the development agencies, together with the ongoing commitment of Government to regional development, 750 public servants are to be relocated in the county, will continue to bear fruit in terms of additional sustainable investment and jobs for County Kildare in 2005.
125 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has provided adequate resources to enable FÁS undertake its full programme throughout County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6458/05]
A total of €922 million has been allocated by my Department to FÁS in the 2005 Estimate. This is an increase of 11% on last year's allocation. These resources are allocated by FÁS on a regional basis. Within the relevant regional allocation, the necessary resources will be provided to fund the FÁS programmes in County Kildare this year.
126 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the net number of jobs lost or created in each of the past 12 months; the locations to which jobs have been lost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6459/05]
Job creation and job losses are a feature of economic development in all countries as various sectors expand and contract in response to market demand for goods and services, competitive forces, restructuring and technological change. Despite the slowdown in the global economy the Irish labour market has been very resilient with employment continuing to grow and unemployment remaining stable.
Statistics on job creation and job losses are obtained from the Central Statistics Office quarterly national household survey. According to the latest available survey for the third quarter of 2004, 1,893,600 persons were in employment in the third quarter of 2004, an increase of 57,200 or 3.1% in the year. This is the highest level of annual growth recorded since the 3.8% recorded in the first quarter of 2001. Quarter on quarter, there was a seasonal increase of over 57,000 persons in employment. When seasonal factors are taken into account employment showed an increase of 13,200 in the quarter.
There were 93,900 persons unemployed in the third quarter, representing a decrease of 4,900 in the year. The seasonally adjusted unemployment figure stood at 86,600, representing a decrease of 1,500 in the quarter. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 4.4%.
While job losses have been experienced in some sectors, the above statistics indicate that they are being offset by employment opportunities in others. Detailed figures for 2004 for job gains and losses in client-supported companies of the industrial development agencies will not be available until mid 2005 when the annual Forfás employment survey is published.
127 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which the cost of public liability insurance has been reduced in the past two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6460/05]
Since the establishment of the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority on 1 May 2003, under the aegis of the Minister for Finance, I have no responsibility in the supervision and regulation of insurance undertakings. I am not in a position to supply the information requested as my Department does not collect the data in question. I am aware that the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority has been investigating the provision of information for public liability insurance. The Deputy may wish to contact the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority directly in this regard.
128 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of applications for work permits received in the past 12 months; the number from outside the EU; the number approved or rejected in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6461/05]
In 2004 the work permit section of my Department received 35,553 applications for work permits. Of this figure 34,067 permits were issued and 1,486 were refused. Of the 34,067 permits issued, 5,107 were issued to applicants from the new EU states who required a work permit up to 30 April 2004 and the remainder were issued to citizens of the non-EEA area.
129 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of new markets for Irish products which have been established in the past two and a half years; the markets lost in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6462/05]
Ireland exports across the globe. As such, there are virtually no markets to which Irish companies do not export. The Government's strategy is to assist companies, through Enterprise Ireland, on an individual basis to deepen market penetration where they are already active and to identify opportunities in markets where they have not yet achieved significant penetration.
In terms of export destinations, the EU is by far our most important market, accounting for 64% of the total in 2002, 61.3% in 2003 and 62.2% for the January to October period in 2004, the latest for which statistics are available. The 2004 figure includes the ten countries which acceded to the EU on 1 May of that year.
The drop in the percentage of exports going to the EU is accounted for almost entirely by a drop in exports to the UK, which was caused by an unusual trading pattern, thought to be related to a VAT fraud in the UK, in the years before 2003. The UK accounted for 17.7% of exports in the January-October period last year, having accounted for 18.2% of the total in 2003 and 24% in 2002.
The US is now our largest single export market taking 19.9% of exports in the January-October period last year. It took 20.6% in 2003 and 17.6% in 2002. Total exports to the US declined by an estimated 2.5% in 2004 following increases of 4.4% in 2002 and 2.6% in 2003. This fall is thought to be due principally to the rising value of the euro against the dollar.
Exports to Asia in 2004 have proved to be very positive, growing by over 10% in the January-October period over the same period in 2003. Of particular note is the increase of 20% in exports to China and Hong Kong, reflecting both China's strength as an emerging manufacturing sector and the Government's focus on developing economic relations with China under the Asia strategy. It also justifies the Government's determination to reinforce the effectiveness and relevance of the strategy in its next phase, as announced by the Taoiseach during his recent visit to China.
130 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the range of imports in the past two and a half years suggests any threat to home production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6463/05]
Over the past 15 years, Ireland has emerged as one of the most globalised economies in the world. This is a reflection of our extremely strong record in attracting investment and growing trade.
This open structure means that we have unusually high levels of both exports and imports. Since our domestic economy is so highly internationalised, it is estimated that approximately two thirds of our imports are used by industry in Ireland as input materials, and are subsequently re-exported after integration in higher value products.
As such, the strength of imports is a reflection of the strength of home production — indeed, a change in the pattern of imports, either positive or negative, is usually followed in subsequent months by a corresponding change in exports. Furthermore, imports contribute to enhancing the competitiveness of the economy and so strengthen the base of our industry and services.
The pattern of imports in the past two and a half years has done nothing to change this situation. However, the Government recognises the need for Irish industry to maintain and accelerate its progress towards higher value-added industries, a process which is necessary as a result of our increasing prosperity. In certain products, we simply cannot match the cost base of low cost production centres. Where companies are negatively affected by lower cost imports, the Government, through its economic development agencies and principally Enterprise Ireland, can offer advice and assistance to them to enable them to adjust to the new situation and maintain growth.
131 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of import and export markets established during the recent promotional trip to China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6464/05]
Between 17 and 25 January 2005, I accompanied the Taoiseach on an official visit and trade mission to China. The Ministers for Education and Science, Agriculture and Food and Communications, Marine and Natural Resources also participated. The trade mission was the largest in the history of the State, involving in total 121 Irish companies and educational institutions primarily involved in the ICT, educational services, environmental and engineering services, medical devices and food and drinks sectors.
During the mission, a memorandum of understanding was signed with the Chinese Government concerning mutual co-operation and development in software and a joint statement on education was issued. A protocol concerning the opening of trade in pork was also signed. The total value of contracts signed between Irish suppliers and Chinese customers in the course of the mission totalled €125.8 million. In addition, four Irish companies, Kerry Group, AIL, EPS, PUCA, signed investment contracts worth €46.8 million.
During the trade mission, over 1,800 meetings were held by the Irish participants with potential and existing customers. I expect that these contacts, and the follow-up which the participating companies will undertake, will lead to substantial additional commercial gains in the future.
In Beijing, business agreement contracts to a total value of €38.5 million were signed. In addition, agreements in the education sector to the value of €31.4 million were signed. In Shanghai, business agreement contracts to a total value of €39 million were signed, and additional agreements within the education sector to the value of €6 million were signed. In Hong Kong, business and education sector agreements were signed amounting to €10.9 million in total.
Trade between Ireland and China-Hong Kong is currently worth €4.8 billion a year — an increase of 24% on 2003. The CSO estimates that Irish exports to China in 2004 increased by 9% last year over 2003, from €585 million to €639 million, while exports to Hong Kong increased from €688 million to €833 million. More than 250 Irish companies are currently doing business in China and Hong Kong and many have well-established partnerships and business alliances with local companies.
In the course of the visit, the Taoiseach announced that it is the Government's intention to double the value of trade between Ireland and China by 2010. Based on emerging trends and projections, the Government is confident that this can be realised, or even surpassed. In the interim, all Departments, State and private entities involved will be co-operatively working to that end.
132 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when the living alone allowance was last increased; and if he will now index the allowance. [6372/05]
The living alone allowance is an additional payment of €7.70 per week made to people aged 66 years or over who are in receipt of certain social welfare type payments and who are living alone. It is also available to people under 66 years of age who are living alone and are receiving payments under one of a number of invalidity type schemes.
The allowance was last increased in 1996. For many years, the policy in relation to support for pensioners has been to commit resources to improving the personal pension rates for all pensioners, rather than supplementary payments such as the living alone allowance. This approach ensures that the position of all our pensioners is improved. Any change in policy in relation to the living alone allowance would have to be considered in a budgetary context.
133 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will report on the actual number of women aged 70 and over who have no independent means, property or pension; if he will consider in view of this unacceptable situation, the introduction of a guaranteed basic income which would be an entitlement on the basis of being a citizen of the State, as recommended by the Conference of Religious of Ireland. [6380/05]
Data from the Central Statistics Office show there were 180,800 women aged 70 and over in the State in 2003. Almost 157,000, or 87%, of those women received social welfare payments in their own right, with further numbers of women being paid as qualified adults on their spouse's pension. This means that the majority of women over 70 years of age and resident in Ireland are receiving social welfare support.
Where the payments being made are contributory pensions, no reference is made to any additional income or assets a person may have, as it is not assessable. In the case of assistance based schemes or receiving a payment as a qualified adult, the payment is made subject to a means test and levels may be reduced by reference to means. However, given the disregards before income or capital are assessed as means, many people may have additional income or assets without affecting their rate of payment. No person in the State, without means, would be left without necessary financial support.
A Green Paper on basic income was published in 2002 by the Department of the Taoiseach to contribute to an informed debate among the wider community on the benefits of basic income, while also identifying the effects of such an approach.
The introduction of a basic income system in Ireland would represent not only a fundamental shift in the way in which we organise social protection in this country, but would also imply a radical overhaul of the taxation system. The Green Paper summarises those implications together with identifying the main advantages and disadvantages associated with the proposal.
The key test in any radical proposal of this nature is whether or not the gains which are claimed can be achieved through a more gradual reform of the existing system. The Commission on Social Welfare in 1986 briefly considered a basic income type approach but rejected these in favour of a reform of the existing systems. Proponents of a basic income system would have to make a convincing case as to why such improvements cannot continue to be made in the context of the current system, instead of opting for the uncertainties and risks of a basic income approach.
In this context, the Government has committed, under An Agreed Programme for Government and Sustaining Progress, to increasing the payment for qualified adults age 66 or over to the same level as the personal rate of the old age non-contributory pension at an estimated cost of €44 million. Considerable progress has already been made in this regard with the qualified adult allowance on the contributory payment now standing at €138.50 or 83% of the maximum rate of old age non-contributory pension, currently €166.00 per week. Overall, increases in the qualified adult allowance on the old age contributory pension amount to €56.47 per week since April 2000. At the same time, the qualified adult allowance on the old age non-contributory pension has increased by €44.05 per week and now stands at 66% of the full personal rate.
134 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved for the household benefits package. [6405/05]
The person concerned applied for an electricity allowance and a free television licence on 1 December 2004. As her spouse was already in receipt of both these allowances since April 2000 her application was refused.
The household had a telephone which was in the name of the applicant's son until 12 January 2005. When my Department was informed that the name had been changed on the bill to that of the person concerned, she was awarded a telephone allowance from that date. Eircom will be notified shortly of the award of the allowance so it can apply the allowance to her account.
135 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will review his Department’s policy in respect of the procedures for applying for unemployment benefit for workers who lose part of their week for a temporary time only due to seasonal or other factors; if he will lift the compulsion on such applicants to seek another full-time post while they await for their existing employment to return to full-time, in view of the fact that they are very unlikely to find a full-time post with equivalent or better wages lasting for only a few weeks and that there are few circumstances in which it would be in their interest to move; and if he will examine the case of a person (details supplied) as an example of the way in which this over-bureaucratic procedure works in practice. [6438/05]
The unemployment benefit scheme is designed to provide income support for people who have lost employment and who are unable for find alternative employment.
Social welfare legislation provides that, in order to be entitled to an unemployment payment, a person must prove, inter alia, that he or she is available for full-time employment and genuinely seeking work. There is an onus on each person to demonstrate, on an ongoing basis, that these conditions are met by showing that he or she is making reasonable efforts to secure full-time employment or self-employment.
In the case of a person who suffers a temporary reduction in his or her working week, he or she must be available for and seeking work for the period in which he or she is not employed. A person who, for example, is put on a three day week, must be making efforts to find work for the other days of the week. Each case is decided on its own merits within the framework of the relevant legislation.
The person concerned made a claim for unemployment benefit on 11 February 2005 as her working week was reduced from six days to three days. Her claim was allowed by a deciding officer subject to her continuing to satisfy the qualifying conditions including, in particular, that she is fully unemployed for at least three days in any period of six consecutive days.
136 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11, in receipt of one-parent family payment, would lose income as a result of taking up a job offer on a community employment scheme of €190 per week or an hourly wage rate of less than €10; his views on whether the impact on this person’s rent supplement constitutes a major disincentive to take up employment; and if, in view of this, he will immediately review the €317.43 limit on earnings rule in respect of rent supplement and abolish this poverty trap. [6439/05]
The policy on one-parent family payment is to encourage and facilitate lone parents in moving into the paid labour force so that they may avoid long-term welfare dependency. The main element of this policy is an earnings disregard of €146.50 per week. This disregard is designed to help towards expenses incurred from taking up employment such as travel, child minding etc. In addition, only half of any earnings above this threshold are assessed as means, up to the maximum earnings of €293.00 per week. In the case of the person concerned, as her earnings will exceed the disregard of €146.50, her one parent family payment rate would be reduced. On the basis of the information supplied by the Deputy, the person concerned would have a reduction of the order of €15 on her weekly payment.
Rent supplements are provided for under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. Supplementary welfare allowance is payable to people on community employment, subject to the standard means test. Under standard assessment rules, rent supplements are calculated to ensure that an eligible person, after the payment of rent, has an income equal to the rate of supplementary welfare allowance appropriate to his or her family circumstances, less a minimum contribution of €13 which each recipient is required to pay from his or her own resources. Up to €60 in respect of additional income from part-time employment is disregarded in the means test, thus ensuring that a person is better off as a result of taking up such an opportunity. Community employment is regarded as part-time employment for these purposes.
On the basis of the information supplied by the Deputy, the person concerned would have a reduction in rent supplement of the order of €115 per week. Taking this and the reduction in her one-parent family payment into account, she would be €60 per week better off overall if she takes up the CE place.
The current eligibility thresholds and disregards, together with improvements in the standard rules of the SWA scheme, are designed to ensure that people have a financial incentive to take up employment opportunities, and that there is a safeguard in place to provide rent supplement in any exceptional hardship that may arise. The effectiveness of these arrangements will be considered further in the context of a review of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which my Department is undertaking during 2005.
137 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason rent support has been reduced in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6467/05]
In my reply to previous parliamentary questions from the Deputy on 26 January 2005 on this case, I informed him that the Health Service Executive had advised that the rent supplement in payment to the person concerned was due for review to take account of the fact that she had begun a second year of her community employment scheme. This was necessary because her entitlement to rent supplement derived from the rules governing retention of the payment for people on community employment schemes. Those rules provide that a person may retain 75% of their payment for one year and 50% in the following year.
This review has been completed. The level of her household income now exceeds the €317.43 limit which allows people on approved employment schemes to retain a portion of their rent supplement on a tapered basis. Nonetheless, as a community employment participant the person concerned is entitled to be assessed for rent supplement under standard supplementary welfare allowance rules.
The executive has informed my Department that, on further examination of the case, it has found that amount of rent supplement issued to the person concerned in respect of February 2005 was incorrectly calculated. Under the standard assessment rules which should have applied in her case, she is entitled to a monthly rent supplement of €322.50. A higher amount was issued to her in error. The executive is arranging to contact the person concerned to ensure that the correct amount of supplement is paid to her in future while her community employment continues. Her rent supplement will be further reviewed when that employment ceases in due course.
138 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider introducing regulations regarding an issue (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6390/05]
As I indicated in my reply to Question No. 67 of 7 December 2004, the European Commission is currently considering how best to implement daytime running lights, DRL, following the carrying out of a comprehensive study of the matter on its behalf by the Dutch SWOV and TNO and the Norwegian Institute for Traffic Studies. I will await the outcome of the Commission's consideration of the matter before making any decision in relation to DRL in Ireland.
139 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the total number of parking places provided at the rail stations of Kilcock, Maynooth, Leixlip, Confey, Hazelhatch and Sallins; if it is intended to provide extra car parking in the near future in view of the lack of adequate space at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6465/05]
140 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if he will direct the provision of extra parking facilities adjacent to all rail stations throughout north Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6466/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 139 and 140 together.
Park and ride facilities are an element of the Dublin Transportation Office, DTO, transport strategy 2000 to 2016, A Platform for Change. There are two main types of park and ride facilities, bus-based, where scheduled bus services operate from purpose built car parks, and rail-based, where parking at rail stations can effectively widen the catchment of the rail services. There are currently a total of 576 parking spaces in the areas outlined by the Deputy. The DTO working group on rail-based park and ride, consisting of DTO, Iarnród Éireann, RPA and GDA local authorities, produced a strategy for the development of rail-based park and ride facilities in the GDA in November 2004.
I am acutely aware of the need to have adequate park and ride facilities in order to facilitate the modal shift from car use to the use of public transport. I am considering the findings and recommendations made in this strategy, which includes a recommendation for the provision of additional or enhanced parking facilities at various stations. I will address this matter in consultation with the relevant authorities.
141 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she has reconsidered an application from a person (details supplied) in County Cork to lease their milk quota in 2005. [6398/05]
The named person made an application to my Department for permission to temporarily lease his entire quota for the 2004-05 milk quota year. Permission to lease the entire quota can be granted only where the applicant is unable to deliver milk due to force majeure, or in other duly justified cases, temporarily affecting production capacity. Notwithstanding that the application was late, it was assessed but based on the information provided the application was not successful. The application has now been reconsidered but unfortunately no grounds exist on which to change the decision. If the named person submits additional information to my Department as soon as possible, the matter will be considered further.
142 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the action which will be taken by her Department arising from the Crosby report; the number of sheep farmers involved; if a level of compensation has been agreed; the time frame for a decision in each case and the expected date by which payment will be made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6401/05]
The flockowners in question were depopulated during the initial scrapie depopulation regime. In total, some 100 flocks were depopulated under this phase and restocking was not permitted for a period of two years. Flockowners received compensation for the capital value of the sheep and for income loss for that period. In addition, those who restocked in the third year also received compensation for income loss for that year. The terms of the agreement and amounts of compensation and income loss involved were clearly understood and accepted by all concerned at the time of depopulation. Further compensation in respect of later years was not part of this agreement. While a committee under the chairmanship of Dr. Crosby examined costs associated with restocking, no undertaking was given by my Department in relation to the findings of that committee.
143 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will qualify for single payment entitlements from the 2005 national reserve; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6414/05]
An application form to the national reserve has been received from the person named before the closing date for receipt of applications. All applications to the 2005 single payment national reserve are being processed at present. In view of the number of applications received and accompanying documentation submitted, it will be some time before processing is completed. It is not possible to indicate at this stage whether the person named will qualify for an allocation of entitlements from the reserve. Applicants will be notified of their eligibility or otherwise as soon as all applications are processed.
144 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her proposals to extend the date for families wishing to transfer from the REP scheme two to the REP scheme three (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6415/05]
All farmers with REPS anniversary dates between 1 March 2004 and 1 February 2005 have been offered the opportunity to transform to REPS 3 by availing of a simplified transformation procedure put in place by the Department of Agriculture and Food. From 1 March 2005, every participant in REPS 2 will continue to have a choice between staying in REPS 2 for the rest of his or her contract, or transferring to REPS 3 by submitting a new five-year plan. A farmer who wishes to transfer to REPS 3 will be required to submit an application, accompanied by a new REPS 3 farm plan, to the local agricultural environment and structures office in the six weeks before his or her next anniversary date under REPS 2.
145 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the status of an application under the national reserve by a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6444/05]
I confirm that a national reserve application form was received from the person in question before the closing date for the receipt of applications. All applications under the 2005 single payment national reserve are being processed at present. Given the number of applications received and the level of accompanying documentation submitted, it will be some time before processing is completed. The Deputy will appreciate that it is not possible to indicate at this stage whether the person will qualify for an allocation of entitlements from the reserve on foot of the application. Applicants will be notified of their eligibility or otherwise as soon as all applications are processed.
146 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a further oral hearing will be made in relation to the appeal of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath against the decision taken by her Department to disallow amendments to their 2002 area aid application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6477/05]
The appeals officer issued a decision on 30 January 2005 to disallow the appeal submitted in this case. A copy of the decision will be forwarded to the Deputy. An oral hearing was held on 19 January 2005. The decision of an appeals officer is final and conclusive, except in certain circumstances. An appeals officer may change a decision if there is new evidence, new facts or a relevant change in circumstances. The officer in this case considers that no new evidence has been provided that would warrant a change in the decision. The director of agriculture appeals may revise a decision if a mistake has been made in respect of the law or the facts of the case. The director in this case has reviewed the file and is satisfied that there are no grounds for revising the decision of the appeals officer. A case may be appealed to the High Court on a point of law.
147 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform is there any dealings taking place on a folio (details supplied) in County Mayo. [6379/05]
I have been informed by the Registrar of Titles that there is no record of an application pending on this folio at present. If the Deputy can provide me with the date of lodgment of the application and a Land Registry reference number, I will make further inquiries on his behalf.
148 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position with a dealing in the Land Registry for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and when the dealing will be completed. [6380/05]
I have been informed by the Registrar of Titles an application for transfer was lodged in this case on 21 February 2002, dealing number D2002SM002434D refers. I have been further informed that the application was completed on 9 September 2004.
149 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a centre (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6382/05]
I understand that an application for capital grant assistance under the equal opportunities child care programme was submitted by the group to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform some time ago. The programme is a seven-year development programme that aims to increase the availability and quality of child care to support parents in employment, education and training.
As there is a high level of demand for capital grant assistance, I considered it important to increase the capital provision for the current programme. Following discussions with my colleague, the Minister for Finance, an additional capital provision of €90 million was made available for the period between 2005 and 2009, in the context of the 2005 budget. Some €50 million is being made available under the current programme and €40 million will be made available under the next phase of the child care programme after 2006. The funds augment the increased EU funding of €12 million made available last year in recognition of the programme's progress. That brings the total funding available for the programme to €499.3 million and includes an increased provision for capital developments, for which €205 million has been set aside.
In December 2004, I announced an allocation of almost €35 million in capital funding to community-based and not-for-profit groups. The availability of the additional funding will enable me to make further capital grant assistance available in the coming months and years to groups which address significant child care service gaps, if the project proposal represents good value for money when considered in the context of building cost guidelines. In that light, the group in question has been advised that while its project was not prioritised for immediate funding in December 2004, it will be reconsidered in the future. It was informed that I hope to make further significant capital commitments in 2005 and thereafter.
The ongoing assessment of the applications in the pipeline will be concluded as speedily as possible to facilitate the development of additional child care facilities and places at the earliest opportunity. When the assessment of the project in question is completed, the application will be considered by the programme appraisal committee, which is chaired by the Department of Agriculture and Food, before I make a final decision. In the interim, it would be premature of me to comment further on the application.
150 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he intends to issue kilometre per hour tickets to the Garda for the enforcement of the road traffic legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6384/05]
152 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied himself that a fixed charge notice issued under the Road Traffic Act 1961 to 2002 section 103 (6) for an offence committed under section 47 of the Road Traffic Act 1961, where the word miles has been struck out in ink and kilometres included as a hand written insert will be acceptable should the document be challenged in a court; the action he is taking to prohibit such a practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6373/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 150 and 152 together.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the practice of striking out "miles" and writing in "kilometres" on fixed charge notices is an interim measure pending the rollout of the fixed charge processing system. This interim measure has the approval of the law officers. I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that it is not intended to print km/h tickets. All fixed charge notices will be printed and issued centrally after the impending implementation of the fixed charge processing system.
151 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Question No. 138 of 17 February 2005, if the person in question is an officer as defined by the legislation in question; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6372/05]
The legal basis for the appointment of prison chaplains is section 28 of the General Prisons (Ireland) Act 1877. The Act does not contain a definition of "officer". It makes a distinction between the service of chaplains and medical officers on the one hand and other prison personnel on the other hand.
153 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if any practical arrangements are in place for non-nationals to transfer visa or other entries on their passports confirming entitlement to reside or work in Ireland, in the situation where their passports have either expired or need to be replaced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6389/05]
Permission granted to non-EEA nationals to remain in the State is endorsed on their passports in the form of a stamp. On receipt of new passports, non-EEA nationals should return to their local immigration officer to have their current permission to remain endorsed in their new passports.
154 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the prison building projects which have not been proceeded with over the past 35 years by his Department; the reason they did not proceed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6403/05]
The precise information requested by the Deputy is not readily available. The compilation of these statistics would require a disproportionate and inordinate amount of staff time and effort to prepare and could not be justified in current circumstances where there are other significant demands on resources.
155 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if any dealing is pending in respect of folio numbers (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6441/05]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that there is no record of an application pending on these folios at present. If the Deputy can provide me with the date of lodgment of the application and a Land Registry reference number, I will make further inquiries on his behalf.
156 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he intends to reply to correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6445/05]
A reply has now issued to the correspondence referred to by the Deputy.
157 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the strong campaign in west Tallaght for the development of a new Garda station in the area to cater for the huge population explosion in Tallaght west; if he will seek the advice of the Garda Commissioner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6451/05]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that a decision on the current and future requirements for gardaí at Tallaght is, as conveyed to the Deputy on 5 October 2004, presently under consideration.
158 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason, in his reply to Question No. 27 of 1 December 2004, he indicated that the application for a visitor’s visa for a person was approved on 10 May 2004, in view of the fact that the applicant’s attention was not drawn to this and upon inquiry was informed that no such visa had been issued. [6470/05]
I wish to confirm that visa application reference numbers 1582697 and 1644599 were approved on appeal on 10 May 2004 and 19 January 2005. The Department of Foreign Affairs was notified accordingly.
159 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of grant aid given over the past eight years to assist the provision of privately owned crèche facilities; the figure for the corresponding period for County Laois; the amount of grant aid that has been given over the past eight years to assist the provision of community or publicly owned crèche facilities throughout the State; and the figure for the corresponding period for County Laois. [6471/05]
The eight year period the Deputy is inquiring about spans two separate programmes, the most recent of which, the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme, EOCP, 2000-2006, is a seven year child care development programme.
The earlier child care funding from my Department, up to 1999, made available a range of supports for community-based child care, including capital funding for over 100 community-based child care services. Prior to 2000, the amount expended in respect of child care funding from my Department was €14.1 million, of which €139,671 was made available to four community-based and partnership projects in County Laois.
The EOCP 2000-2006 is a demand-led grant programme with a total budget of €499 million over the period of the national development plan. My Department first called for applications in April 2000 and continues to accept applications from child care providers across the country.
The EOCP 2000-2006 makes available capital and staffing funding for community-based or not-for-profit child care services. Also, the EOCP 2000-2006 introduced a capital grant for private sector child care providers which provides a maximum of €50,790 for building work to or equipment for a privately operated child care service. Further funding is provided to develop the capacity of the child care sector. This includes annual funding for city and county child care committees which have a role in supporting child care actions at local level.
I understand that, under the EOCP 2000-2006, my Department has already made €257.3 million available in capital and staffing grant assistance to child care services nationwide between the launch of the programme in 2000 and the end of 2004.
Of this total, €25.4 million was provided to private sector child care services in the form of capital grants. A total of €127.6 million in capital grant assistance and €104.2 million in staffing grant assistance was provided to community-based and voluntary child care services.
Staffing grant assistance is normally approved for a three year period and 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.
In respect of County Laois, I understand that, under the EOCP 2000-2006, €4.6 million was made available to child care services over the same period. Private sector child care services in County Laois had €700,000 made available in the form of capital grants. A total of €2.2 million in capital grants and €1.7 million in staffing grant assistance has been made available to community-based and voluntary child care services.
It may interest the Deputy to know that my colleague the Minister for Finance announced additional capital funding for child care in the budget for 2005. This announcement increased the funding available to my Department for child care to €499 million over the life of the national development plan. The funding announced also provided a further €40 million of capital funding for the period from the end of the national development plan to 2009.
160 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Land Registry Office will expedite a dealing for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [6473/05]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that there is no record of an application pending on this folio at present. If the Deputy can provide me with the date of lodgement of the application and a Land Registry reference number I will make further inquiries on his behalf.
161 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform , further to parliamentary Question No. 201 of 10 February 2005, if an error was made in the reply; if this matter will be processed without further delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6475/05]
I assume the Deputy's question arises in the context of the acknowledgement of correspondence issued by my Department on 24 January 2005.
The correspondence in question comprises five pages and deals with a dispute which the person in question is having with the Revenue Commissioners, the circumstances giving rise to that dispute and the extent to which the conduct of the Revenue Commissioners have impinged upon his constitutional rights. For this reason it was not immediately apparent in my Department that its sole purpose was in connection with his naturalisation application.
As a consequence a degree of intermediate intervention was required prior to its transmission to the citizenship division of my Department. When the reply to the question to which the Deputy refers was prepared the letter had not been received in the citizenship section, although it has now been received and placed on the relevant case file.
As I have already informed the Deputy in response to an earlier question, the average processing time for an application for naturalisation is 24 months. It is likely, therefore, that the applications of the persons referred to will be finalised by mid-2006. There are almost 4,000 applications awaiting processing before the applications of the persons in question and I do not consider that there are any exceptional circumstances disclosed in the applications concerned why they should be expedited at this point in time.
It is not the case that the absence of confirmation from the Revenue Commissioners that the persons' tax affairs were in order has impeded the processing of the files, however, it will ensure that when processing begins all of the relevant information is in place.
162 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to parliamentary Question No. 765 of 26 January 2005, the way in which the person can remain here until the application in processed; if he will facilitate a change in the status of this person’s visa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6479/05]
When a person arrives in the State on foot of a visit visa and is granted a period of permission to remain it is expected that the person would leave the State when the permission expires. In this case the person in question did not leave the State but instead made an application for residency as indicated in the answer to Question No. 765 of 26 January 2005.
The residency application will be dealt with as outlined in the answer to the Deputy's previous question. It is not the general policy of my Department to deport persons from the State when there is an application for residency pending.
163 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 765 of 26 January 2005, the reason the processing time has increased by six months from December 2004 to January 2005, in view of departmental correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6480/05]
In my response to Question No. 765 on 26 January last, I informed the Deputy that an application for leave to remain by the person in question had been received in my Department in December 2004 and would take 16 months to finalise.
In November 2004, a declaration of acceptance of Irish citizenship as post-nuptial citizenship was lodged with the citizenship section of my Department. The letter dated 1 December to which the Deputy now refers, acknowledged receipt of this declaration and informed the applicant that the processing time for such declarations was ten months.
Leave to remain and post-nuptial citizenship are two entirely different processes and are administered by two different sections in the immigration and citizenship division of my Department.
164 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will reverse the decision to remove school transport facility from the Kildimo, Clarina, Ballybrown areas to the Salesian College, Pallaskenry which has been in place for over a decade and which took cognisance of the large increase in population of the area and the closure of Mungret College. [6371/05]
Under the terms of the post primary school transport scheme, a pupil is eligible for transport if she or he resides 4.8 kilometres, or more from her or his local post-primary education centre, that is, the centre for the catchment area in which she or he lives. In addition, a pupil may be allowed the concession of transport, known as catchment boundary transport, to a centre other than her or his local centre, provided there is room on the bus to that centre after all eligible pupils have been catered for.
Pupils residing in Kildimo are in the Pallaskenry catchment area and the transport liaison officer with responsibility for the area has advised my Department that transport from this area is operating to Pallaskenry. The pupils in the Clarina and Ballybrown areas reside in the Limerick city catchment area. In that regard, the provision of transport for pupils living in the Limerick city catchment area to the Pallaskenry post primary centre is being reviewed at present and decisions will be taken in the light of the outcome of the new centralised application system for enrolment in Limerick city schools which is being administered by the Limerick education centre.
165 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science when a maintenance grant application in her Department will be dealt with. [6375/05]
The decision on eligibility for third level grants is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is desired. It appears that no such advice or instruction has, to date, been sought in the case of the student, to whom the Deputy refers.
If an individual applicant considers that she or he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she or he may appeal to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the relevant local authority or VEC, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in his or her case, a letter outlining the position may be sent to my Department.
Alternatively, the local authority or VEC may, itself, in exceptional circumstances, seek clarification on issues from my Department. However, it is not open to me, or my Department, to depart from the terms of the maintenance grant schemes in individual cases.
166 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science if there is a grant available to schools which involve themselves in a recycling of waste programme as the present situation is that schools in the Cork area have to pay €5 per bag to dispose of recycled waste. [6376/05]
Primary schools' running costs are met by my Department's scheme of capitation grants. These grants are intended to contribute towards the general operating costs of schools which would include heating, lighting, cleaning, insurance, painting, teaching aids and other miscellaneous charges. The capitation grant for primary schools has been increased substantially in recent years. Since 1997 the standard rate of capitation grant has been increased from £45, €57.14, per pupil to €121.58 with effect from 1 January 2004 and is being increased by a further €12 per pupil with effect from 1 January 2005 bringing the standard rate to €133.58. This represents an increase of almost 134% in the standard rate of capitation grant since 1997.
There have also been significant improvements in the level of funding for second level schools. The standard per capita grant now amounts to €286 as against the rate of €224.74 that applied in 1997. This increase will bring the per capita grant in the case of disadvantaged schools to €324 per pupil. In addition, under the school services support fund initiative, secondary schools have benefited from further significant increases in the support grant. This grant, which was introduced in September 2000, has been increased from €25 per pupil to €103 from 1 January 2005.
Funding for voluntary secondary schools has been further enhanced by the introduction of a range of equalisation measures designed to reduce the historic anomalies in the funding arrangements for the different school types at second level. Under the terms of recent equalisation measures, the support grant has in the case of voluntary secondary schools been significantly enhanced to €145 per pupil from 1 January 2005.
These increases are in addition to the range of equalisation grants of up to €15,554 per school per annum that have also been approved for voluntary secondary schools.
Local authority service and other charges payable to the various local authorities do not come within the remit of my Department. It would be a matter for the local authorities to decide whether schools are liable to pay such charges. Where it is decided that schools are liable for such charges, the cost would form part of the normal running costs of schools and would fall to be met from the capitation funding which schools have received from my Department.
It would not be feasible for my Department to introduce specific schemes whereby grant assistance would be provided to schools in respect of individual charges such as charges for waste recycling.
167 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on the progress of the construction of the new school of music for Cork; the reason for the delays; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6377/05]
The Government decided last July that my Department should finalise contractual negotiations with Jarvis Projects Limited with the view to commencing construction of the Cork School of Music as soon as practical. Shortly thereafter Jarvis Plc, preferred bidder for the project, announced a profit warning on the London Stock Exchange. To help solve its financial difficulties the company commenced selling off non-core elements of the company. One of the areas to be disposed of was the public private partnership-PFI bidding business and on 3 December 2004 Jarvis announced that it had reached an agreement with Hochtief Developments (UK) Ltd.
Following the announcement, various issues surrounding the purchase were being completed and a revised proposal and documentation in connection with the Cork School of Music public private partnership project were received on 19 January 2005. As Hochtief has replaced Jarvis as a member of the bidding consortium it must satisfy the Department that had it applied under the terms of the original public private partnership advertised in 2000 it would have been one of the consortia that pre-qualified for the project.
The new documentation is being examined by my Department's specialist advisers to the project who are also undertaking full financial and legal due diligence to ensure that the proposal meets all EU procurement guidelines. It is expected that this examination will be completed and a report submitted to my Department's public private partnership unit for consideration shortly.
Subject to all of the necessary financial and legal issues being in order it will then be possible to commence formal negotiations with Hochtief Developments to complete the contract details to allow financial and commercial close for the project take place.
168 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the date on which she intends to announce the next phase of the school building programme for 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6387/05]
I have today announced the next phase of the programme under which 192 schools will be allocated funding to undertake projects, such as extensions and refurbishments. These projects will proceed immediately, on a devolved basis, which means that the school authorities will control the planning and construction phases of the improvement works at their own school. Each school will be contacted directly by officials over the next few days.
Further phases of the school building and modernisation programme are nearing finalisation and I will be making further announcements in the coming weeks to include an expansion of the number of schools and extending the scope of the projects approved under the summer works scheme and schools that will be authorised to commence architectural planning and schools whose projects will further progress through the design process.
169 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications which were received under funding programmes from an area (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6388/05]
The information sought by the Deputy is not readily available in my Department. However, if the Deputy has a query about any specific school, I would be happy to provide the information for him.
170 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science when a resource teacher will be allocated to a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6425/05]
I can confirm that an application for four hours resource teaching support was received for the pupil in question. Having considered the application, my Department advised the school that the pupil's special educational needs appear to be within the high incidence category. It would be expected that the pupil's special educational needs can be met from within the current resource-learning support teaching allocation available to the school.
The school currently has the services of one full-time resource teacher post, a shared learning support teacher and four hours part-time resource teaching support. It is a matter for the school to deploy these resources to meet the special educational needs of the pupils in the school.
171 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the application for funding from a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6426/05]
An extension project at the school to which the Deputy refers has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria, and the project is being considered in the context of the school buildings and modernisation programme.
The Deputy will be aware that in January I announced the first phase of the 2005 schools building programme which provided details of 122 major school building projects countrywide that will prepare tenders and move to construction during 2005.
I have today announced the next phase of the programme under which 192 schools will be allocated funding to undertake projects, such as extensions and refurbishments. These projects will proceed immediately, on a devolved basis, which means that the school authorities will control the planning and construction phases of the improvement works at their own school. Each school will be contacted directly by officials, over the next few days.
Further phases of the schools building and modernisation programme are nearing finalisation and I will be making further announcements in the coming weeks to include an expansion of the number of schools and extending the scope of the projects approved under the summer works scheme, schools that will be authorised to commence architectural planning and schools whose projects will further progress through the design process.
172 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science when she will reply to correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6427/05]
The issues raised in the correspondence from Ms Ward are complex and require careful consideration. However, my Department undertakes to respond to the queries within two weeks.
173 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will approve learning support service for schools (details supplied) in County Cork. [6429/05]
I trust that the Deputy is aware of the proposed new system for resource teacher allocation which 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. This system also applies to those with learning support needs, that is, functioning at or below the tenth percentile on a standardised test of reading and-or mathematics.
I am conscious of difficulties that could arise in regard to the proposed model for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. Accordingly, my Department is currently reviewing the proposal to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common higher incidence special educational needs. The review involves consultation with educational interests, including the NCSE, before it is implemented in September 2005. The needs of the schools referred to by the Deputy will be considered in the context of the review.
174 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of a learning support teacher to a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [6430/05]
The school referred to by the Deputy currently has the services of one shared learning support teacher and a shared resource teacher. I trust that the Deputy is aware of the proposed new system for resource teacher allocation which 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. This system also applies to those with learning support needs, that is, functioning at or below the tenth percentile on a standardised test of reading and-or mathematics.
I am conscious of difficulties that could arise in relation to the proposed model for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. Accordingly, my Department is currently reviewing the proposal to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common higher incidence special educational needs. The review involves consultation with educational interests, including the NCSE, before it is implemented in September 2005.
175 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding a proposed building project for a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [6431/05]
An extension project at the school to which the Deputy refers has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria, and the project is being considered in the context of the school buildings and modernisation programme. The Deputy will be aware that in January I announced the first phase of the 2005 school building programme which provided details of 122 major school building projects countrywide which will prepare tenders and move to construction during 2005.
I have today announced the next phase of the programme under which 192 schools will be allocated funding to undertake projects, such as extensions and refurbishments. These projects will proceed immediately, on a devolved basis, which means that the school authorities will control the planning and construction phases of the improvement works at their own school. Each school will be contacted directly by officials, over the next few days.
Further phases of the school building and modernisation programme are nearing finalisation and I will be making further announcements in the coming weeks to include an expansion of the number of schools and extending the scope of the projects approved under the summer works scheme, schools that will be authorised to commence architectural planning and schools whose projects will further progress through the design process.
176 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will approve an application for capital funding for a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [6432/05]
The application from the school referred to by the Deputy for the provision of funding for a mechanical lift under the 2005 summer works scheme is currently under consideration.
Details of schools with projects approved under the SWS 2005 will be outlined in the near future.
177 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will list the currently unused sites in the ownership of her Department in the Tallaght area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6447/05]
At present the only unused site currently in the ownership of my Department in the Tallaght area is that of the site at Kingswood Heights. My Department is currently considering the best use that can be made of this site in the context of overall educational requirements in the Tallaght area.
178 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when it is likely that the necessary funding and approval will be given for the provision of the proposed covered walkway at Confey College, Leixlip, County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6469/05]
The school to which the Deputy refers has submitted an application for grant aid under the summer works scheme, SWS, 2005 for a covered walkway.
All SWS applications are currently being assessed in the school planning section of my Department. I intend to publish the list of successful applicants shortly.
179 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will approve funding for a resource centre to facilitate the construction of a voluntary housing scheme in Athlone, County Westmeath by associations (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6443/05]
The project is one proposed to be undertaken with the assistance available for the provision of housing accommodation and communal facilities by an approved voluntary housing body. My Department's involvement with the voluntary housing schemes relates primarily to the provision of funds for individual projects. The administration of the schemes, and the certification that particular projects comply with the schemes terms, are the responsibility of the local authority, in this case Westmeath County Council. It is understood that the council is, at present, considering aspects relating to the eligibility of this particular project for assistance under the schemes, and formal application for funding of the project has not yet been received from the council.
180 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason a person (details supplied) in County Galway is not entitled to the full level of payment now being offered for bog land; if his attention is drawn to the fact that it was generally believed by bog owners at the time that they would sell on condition that if there was to be an increase in price they would be fully remunerated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6377/05]
In July 2004 my Department concluded an agreement with the farming pillar under Sustaining Progress which involved increased rates of compensation for the cessation of turf-cutting in bogs that have been proposed as designated conservation areas. This agreement incorporates retrospective provisions benefiting landowners who participated in the original 1999 scheme for disposal of raised bogs and turbary rights to my Department.
My Department is examining the application referred to in the question with a view to determining it as soon as possible.
181 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is a grant available to schools who are involving themselves in a recycling of waste programme as the present situation is that schools in the Cork area have to pay €5 per bag to dispose of recycled waste. [6378/05]
Financial assistance for the purpose indicated is not provided by my Department. The determination of waste charges is statutorily a matter for the relevant local authority in cases where it acts as the service provider. Where, as commonly occurs, a private operator acts as a service provider then that operator will determine the charges. With a view to facilitating increased recycling of waste, my Department has already provided significant capital grant assistance from the environment fund to local authorities towards the provision of recycling and recovery facilities. Funding is also being provided on an ongoing basis towards meeting the current operating costs of such facilities.
182 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a report will be provided in respect of an extension of the Lough Mask water scheme to Swinford, County Mayo; if he will report on the feasibility of such project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6448/05]
The development and prioritisation of water services infrastructural proposals for inclusion in the water services investment programme is, in the first instance, the responsibility of local authorities. I understand an extension of the Lough Mask regional water supply scheme to Swinford was included as a post-2006 requirement in the list of water and sewerage schemes submitted by Mayo County Council in response to my Department's request to local authorities in 2003 to produce updated assessments of the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. These assessments were taken into account in the framing of the Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006 published by my Department in May 2004. Given the rating afforded to the scheme by the council, it was not possible to include it in the current programme.
183 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will be making a decision regarding the Viking site at Woodstown, County Waterford in the matter of whether he will issue a preservation order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6481/05]
The site was discovered during the course of archaeological investigations in advance of the construction of the N25 — Waterford city bypass which were being carried out on behalf of Waterford City Council under the auspices of the NRA. A report on the outcome of these archaeological investigations which identified a previously unknown Viking site was submitted to my Department and is available on the NRA website. Subsequently my Department issued directions under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2004 requiring further studies to be carried out by the road developers to establish the archaeological potential of a marsh area at the western end of the site; the reports on the results of these additional investigations have now been submitted. The road developers have indicated that an alternative route which would avoid the site is feasible and is now their preferred option.
I have recently visited the Viking site at Woodstown and indicated that I am minded, subject to the statutory procedures, to direct its preservation pending the development of proposals for future archaeological investigation. Under the legislation I am obliged to consult with the Director of the National Museum before directions are issued as to how the site should be dealt with from an archaeological point of view. I would hope to initiate consultations with the director within the next week, and have these finalised soon, at which stage directions can be issued.
