Vol. 599 No. 2
65 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if any staff from his Department are co-operating with the Department of Defence in dealing with such matters as Partnership for Peace and the possibility of Ireland’s supporting battle groups, or the components of such a group, to the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7709/05]
122 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts he will take to ensure that Ireland can play a role in the battle groups favoured by the UN Secretary General; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7634/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 65 and 122 together.
A major challenge for the EU is to ensure that it is able to respond rapidly and flexibly to crises overseas. In this context, the Union is taking forward the development of both civilian and military capabilities.
On the military side, the battle groups-rapid response elements concept has been under development in the European Union for some time. From the outset of the establishment of the European security and defence policy, ESDP, in 1999, it has been envisaged that to carry out the full range of so called Petersberg Tasks, the EU's crisis management capabilities would need to include rapid response elements, available and deployable at very high readiness.
At the military capabilities commitment conference in November 2004, member states committed up to 13 battle group formations which will be on standby for a six month period to deploy to crises within a 15-day period. These formations have the potential to play a significant role in support of the UN, including through deploying at the request of the UN as a "bridging force", that is, deploying quickly to a crisis for a relatively short period, while a larger and longer term UN peacekeeping force is established.
After consideration by the Government, Ireland indicated at the military capabilities commitment conference in November 2004 that we were prepared to enter into consultations with partners with a view to potential participation. I have already had political consultations on this issue with both my Swedish and Finnish counterparts.
An interdepartmental group, which includes representatives of my Department, the Department of the Taoiseach, the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces and the Office of the Attorney General, has been established to examine the policy, legislative and operational issues arising from possible participation. Clearly, an important component of this analysis will be the need to consider whether and how participation in EU rapid response elements could be accommodated to the legal requirement for UN authorisation of any mission in which Irish Defence Force contingents would deploy. I believe the consultation process and the report of the interdepartmental group will enable the Government to make a fully informed decision on Ireland's participation in rapid response elements.
As regards co-operation between my Department and the Department of Defence, there is long-standing and close co-operation between officials of both Departments on the full range of issues relating to international security and defence policy, including Ireland's participation in Partnership for Peace.
66 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when the new EU constitution will be put to referendum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7596/05]
81 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on recent Eurobarometer reports that public awareness of the EU constitution is worryingly low here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7633/05]
108 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans for a major public information campaign in advance of a referendum on the EU constitution; if he will consider sending a copy of the draft constitution to every home in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7695/05]
130 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the actions he will take to raise the profile of the European Union within Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7617/05]
133 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of countries within the European Union that will put the EU constitution to public referendum; if he has held consultations with his counterparts in these countries with regard to the timing of referenda on the constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7611/05]
134 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has held discussions with his Spanish counterpart with regard to the recent referendum on the EU constitution held in that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7625/05]
160 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the outcome of the recent referendum on the EU constitution in Spain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7697/05]
163 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to a recent Eurobarometer study which shows that while voters here are generally supportive of the EU, they are also hesitant with regard to the proposed EU constitution; his views on the consequences this may have for a future referendum on the constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7696/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 66, 81, 108, 130, 133, 134, 160 and 163 together.
I refer the Deputies to my reply to Question No. 58, in which I set out the Government's approach to the referendum on the European constitution.
I had an opportunity to congratulate my Spanish colleague in Brussels the day after the Spanish referendum. The successful result, which saw a 77% vote in favour of the constitution, was an excellent start to the round of the referendums to come. While the exact situation is not clear in all member states, it currently seems that between nine and 11 member states will seek to ratify the constitution via a referendum. Three member states — Lithuania, Hungary and Slovenia — have already ratified the constitution via parliamentary procedure.
We regularly exchange information with our partners on the ratification process and our embassies also report regularly. However, there is no formal co-ordination arrangement. It is for each member state to decide individually, according to its constitutional requirements and political conditions, how best to proceed.
With regard to the Eurobarometer poll, I share the view that the findings are a cause for some concern. They indicate that there is a knowledge gap with regard to the European constitution, and that is something with which none of us can be pleased. I referred in my earlier reply to the various initiatives which are under way to close that gap. I stress once more the crucial role which political debate has to play in stimulating the media coverage which engages the public. In that regard, Members of this House have a key responsibility.
The question of whether a copy of the European constitution should be sent to every household in the country has been raised. While there is a case for this, I tend to believe that the resources which such an exercise would consume might be more effectively spent on providing clear summary information about the constitution rather than circulating the full document to every household. However, the constitution itself is freely available both in hard copy and electronically. The European Commission has informed my Department that it will supply copies free of charge to those who request them and my Department will also be happy to forward copies on request.
Finally, on raising the profile of Europe in Ireland, over the next period the main focus will inevitably be on the constitution. It will be important, not just for the referendum but for the future, that the public understands the basic future framework of the EU. In my earlier reply I set out the various initiatives which will be taken.
In terms of improving awareness of Europe generally, this is a complex issue, which involves the Government, the EU institutions, the education system, civil society and the media. Many useful measures are in place, including my Department's communicating Europe initiative which supports a range of relevant activities. However, it is clear that there is still a major task ahead of us. This is an issue which affects all member states and which is being actively discussed by European Affairs Ministers, following an initiative taken by the then Minister of State, Deputy Roche, during our Presidency. The European Commission will present a proposed communications strategy to the European Council in June. In the light of these developments, and in particular after the referendum, I intend to encourage further consideration of how to co-ordinate our efforts and make them more effective.
67 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to recent comments from a person (details supplied) that the Government’s decision to renege on its overseas development funding commitments has affected global efforts to fight the AIDS epidemic; the efforts the Government has been making or proposes to make to address the shortfall in the sums needed to combat the epidemic; if this part of the millennium development goals is to be achieved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7693/05]
265 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he and his EU and UN colleagues propose to address the issue of AIDS in Africa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8005/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 67 and 265 together.
The Government's spending on ODA has risen from €158 million in 1997 to €545 million this year. This means that Ireland is now one of the world's leading aid donors, ranked 8th by the OECD, in terms of per capita spending on development assistance.
The Government's programme of development assistance is internationally recognised as being of the highest quality. The UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, during his visit to Dublin last year, described our aid programme as a model in development terms, while recently, Mr. James Wolfensohn, president of the World Bank, complimented the aid programme's approach to development. Mr. Wolfensohn said: "Your country has shown tremendous capacity and a tremendous heart and I think the Irish people are to be congratulated on your approach to development." We are regularly evaluated by our peers in the OECD and the most recent appraisal in 2003 concluded that our development programme is of the highest quality, is sharply poverty focused and is directed at addressing the millennium development goals, MDGs.
HIV-AIDS is a key priority area for Development Co-operation Ireland. A dedicated budget line was established by the Taoiseach following the United Nations special session on HIV-AIDS in 2001. The amount allocated to HIV-AIDS has increased on an annual basis since then and this year almost €50 million will be spent on a wide range of activities related to the prevention, treatment and mitigation of HIV-AIDS. These funds are being channelled through our development partners at a number of different levels.
At a global level, Development Co-operation Ireland is supporting a number of multilateral organisations and initiatives, including UNAIDS, the global fund for HIV-AIDS, TB and malaria, the international AIDS vaccine initiative and the international partnership on microbicides. The Government is also working with the Clinton Foundation to assist in the preparation of integrated HIV and AIDS treatment, care and prevention programmes.
Development Co-operation Ireland is also supporting a regional HIV-AIDS programme for southern and eastern Africa. Our development programme is working to strengthen government capacity to respond to HIV-AIDS in all our programme countries and in South Africa. The Irish Government is also supporting non-governmental organisations, NGOs, and faith based organisations in their work to deliver home based care, support orphans and provide much needed health care in communities.
While the programmes supported through Development Co-operation Ireland are assisting in alleviating the global impact of HIV-AIDS, the pandemic continues to be an enormous challenge to reducing poverty and attaining the millennium development goals. This is particularly the case in sub-Saharan Africa where prevalence rates of over 20% are not uncommon. This high rate of infection makes it even more difficult for poorer countries to reach the millennium development targets. There are, however, encouraging signs that sub-Saharan Africa is making some progress in the fight against AIDS and the Irish Government will continue to support it in its efforts. The annual budgetary increases in ODA, announced by the Minister for Finance in December, will allow Ireland to further contribute to the containment of this global scourge.
As an indication of my commitment to improving the international response to HIV-AIDS, I am attending a ministerial meeting later this week in London, which is being organised jointly by UNAIDS and the British Government, to agree on levels of financing to arrest the global spread of HIV-AIDS in future years. A particular focus of this meeting, and indeed of my own input, will be to ensure that additional financial resources made available from countries like Ireland will be used in an effective and co-ordinated manner.
68 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the latest discussions that have taken place between the European Union and Iran relating to the development of a nuclear capability by Iran; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7599/05]
79 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Irish and European position towards the existing situation which pertains in Iran with regard to the threat of nuclear weapons being developed in that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7733/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 79 together.
Ireland and its EU partners share the widespread international concern about Iran's development of its nuclear programme, in particular its uranium enrichment component. It has been more than two years since Iran's undeclared nuclear programme was first brought to the attention of the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA, and the director general of the agency has presented seven written reports on the subject since June 2003. The latest such report was discussed at the meeting of the IAEA board of governors which took place in Vienna in November 2004.
A resolution on Iran, adopted by consensus at that meeting, underlined the importance of Iran extending full and prompt co-operation to the director general in his investigations into the remaining outstanding issues identified in the report, in particular the origin of uranium contamination found at various locations in the country and the extent of Iran's efforts to import, manufacture and use certain types of centrifuges.
Negotiations between Iran and France, Germany and the United Kingdom, supported by the EU high representative, are being carried out in accordance with the terms of the Paris agreement of November 2004. Under this agreement, Iran, inter alia, reaffirmed that it does not and will not seek to acquire nuclear weapons and committed itself to full transparency and co-operation with the IAEA. Moreover, it decided to voluntarily suspend all enrichment and reprocessing activities and to invite the IAEA to verify and to monitor the suspension. The agreement further provided for negotiations on a long-term agreement which will cover political and security issues, technology and co-operation, and nuclear issues, work on which commenced in December 2004.
The European Council of December 2004 welcomed this agreement and underlined that sustaining the full suspension of all enrichment related and reprocessing activities was essential for the continuation of the overall process. It supported further efforts with a view to reaching an agreement on long-term arrangements. The European Council confirmed its earlier conclusions on the resumption of the negotiations on a trade and co-operation agreement after verification of suspension. It also confirmed the Union's readiness to explore ways to further develop political and economic co-operation with Iran, following action by Iran to address other areas of concern of the EU regarding the fight against terrorism, human rights and Iran's approach to the Middle East peace process.
A steering committee to launch these negotiations met in December 2004 and established working groups on political and security issues, technology and co-operation, and nuclear issues. Those working groups met most recently last month and their work is ongoing. Under the terms of the Paris agreement, the steering committee will meet again by early next month to receive progress reports from the working groups and to move ahead with projects and/or measures that can be implemented in advance of an overall agreement.
The IAEA board of governors was briefed last week in Vienna on the agency's ongoing verification work with regard to Iran, which is continuing in parallel to the negotiations with Iran. Issues covered included Iran's centrifuge programme, the origin of particle contamination of some components and Iran's suspension of enrichment activities, as provided for in the Paris agreement.
At the meeting of the board, France, Germany and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement, in which they gave their preliminary assessment of the negotiations with Iran to date. They indicated that the negotiations have allowed for an extensive exchange of views, notably on ways to provide objective guarantees that Iran's nuclear programme is exclusively for peaceful purposes, as stipulated in the Paris agreement. The two sides have also discussed long-term arrangements for co-operation between the EU and Iran in the political and security area, as well as the economic and technological field. They have also explored the prospects for possible international co-operation in connection with Iran's nuclear programme. The discussions were said to have been conducted in a constructive spirit of open and serious exchanges and that while much progress remains to be made, they represent encouraging steps towards working out long-term arrangements, as foreseen in the Paris agreement.
The statement went on to express satisfaction with the progress reported by the IAEA in its investigations but also expressed regret at some developments which could undermine confidence. These included Iran's failure to report excavation work at one of the sites under investigation and limitations placed on the scope of visits by IAEA inspectors. In reiterating their commitment to the negotiation process signed in Paris, France, Germany and the United Kingdom stressed that it is essential that confidence be maintained through the continued implementation in good faith of all aspects of the Paris agreement.
69 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his position on the use of development funds for advocacy and empowerment among the poor of the developing world; the basis for such remarks as he has made that called such practice into question; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7692/05]
My prime concern as Minister with responsibility for the stewardship of the Government's programme of assistance to poorer countries is to ensure that the greater part of those funds is directed to the needs of vulnerable and needy people in places like sub-Saharan Africa. It was in that context that I raised the issue in question in general terms in a radio interview at the time of the Estimates last year. My aim was simply to encourage informed debate about where and how aid money is spent.
In summary, my view is that, whether directed through the bilateral programme, UN agencies, the EU or NGOs, Irish taxpayers' funds should find their way in greatest measure to the poorest people. That said, I agree that a certain limited percentage should be used to hold up a mirror to what we do and to the challenges we face so as to inform our people of the value of what we do, to build a body of support for that engagement and to educate our young people on the moral outrage which deepest poverty represents.
70 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government proposes to regain the position of leadership in matters of international aid lost when the Government decided to renege on its commitment to spend 0.7% of GNP on overseas aid by 2007; his views on whether the decision to row back on this commitment was unwise; if the Government will now revert to its previous position and commitment to some of the poorest people on the planet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7738/05]
126 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a new timescale for achieving the UN target for overseas aid will be announced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7640/05]
251 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding overseas aid; the new target date at which Ireland will reach 0.7% of GNP; if he will set out a multi-annual plan to reach this target; if he will enshrine Ireland’s commitment to the 0.7% target in legislation before the summer recess; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7822/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 70, 126 and 251 together.
The allocation for 2005 provides for an increase of €70 million in Government spending on official development assistance this year. This will bring total Government aid to the developing world to approximately €545 million in 2005, the highest allocation in the 30 year history of the aid programme. In addition, the Government has agreed to provide further increases of €65 million in each of the years 2006 and 2007. These substantial increases mean that over the three years from 2005 to 2007, €1.8 billion will be spent by Ireland on development assistance. Ireland will maintain its position as one of the world's leading aid donors on a per capita basis. We are currently in eighth place among OECD member states and our performance is well above the EU average.
I welcome these increases. The three year multi-annual commitment, incorporating substantial annual increases, gives my Department a sound basis to carry forward the long-term planning which is so important for development work. While there may be some merit in enshrining such commitments in legislation, this would create a precedent which could be invoked for many areas of Government expenditure. As Deputies will appreciate, the Government requires flexibility to manage the economy.
The Government remains strongly committed to achieving the UN target for expenditure on ODA. The issue of how best to meet the target, and in what timeframe, is under ongoing review. Development Co-operation Ireland recently launched a consultative process that will lead to a White Paper on development assistance. All interested members of the public are invited to submit views.
71 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position with regard to the opening of EU accession talks with Turkey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7592/05]
Turkey has been a candidate for membership of the EU since the Helsinki European Council in December 1999, which agreed that it was destined to join the Union on the basis of the same criteria applied to the other candidate states. The European Council in Brussels on 16-17 December 2004 decided, on the basis of the Commission's report and recommendation, that Turkey sufficiently fulfils the Copenhagen political criteria to enable the opening of accession negotiations.
It requested the Commission to begin work on a proposal for a negotiating framework and to present it to the Council, with a view to the opening of accession negotiations on 3 October 2005. The clear objective of the negotiations will be Turkey's accession to the Union, provided it meets the requirements for membership. The pace of the negotiations will depend in large part on progress in the implementation of Turkey's wide ranging reform programme. Given the substantial financial consequences of Turkish accession, the European Council agreed that it will not be possible to conclude negotiations until after the establishment of the financial framework for the period from 2014.
The December European Council also set out the main elements for future negotiating frameworks with individual candidate states, building on the experience of the current enlargement process and taking account of developments within the EU. Turkey's accession negotiations will take place in the context of an Intergovernmental Conference with the participation of all member states, in which decisions will require unanimity. The European Council agreed that the shared objective of the negotiations will be accession but noted that the process will, inevitably, be an open ended one, the outcome of which cannot be guaranteed in advance.
In preparation for the European Council decision, it was clear that although the search for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem will remain a UN led process, some movement was necessary by Turkey towards the objective of normalising relations with the Republic of Cyprus, which has been a member state of the Union since 1 May 2004. The European Council welcomed Turkey's decision to sign the protocol adapting the 1963 Ankara agreement of association in order to take account of the accession of ten new member states, including the Republic of Cyprus. I welcome the important declaration by the Turkish Government that it is ready to sign the protocol prior to the actual start of negotiations and I look forward to early implementation of this commitment.
In the months ahead, member states will consider proposals from the Commission for a revised accession partnership with Turkey, setting out priorities for the continued implementation of the reform process, which will be central to the accession negotiations. The Council will also consider Commission proposals for a detailed negotiating framework, based on the principles outlined by the European Council. The Government will continue to work with our partners in the Union, and with Turkey, to ensure that all the elements are in place for a successful opening of accession negotiations on 3 October.
72 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the political situation in the Congo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7603/05]
83 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the recent tragedy in the Congo that resulted in the loss of UN peacekeepers’ lives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7604/05]
257 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the degree to which he and his colleagues in the EU and UN are in a position to positively influence matters in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; if the administration there is adjusting in accordance with democratic requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7997/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 72, 83 and 257 together.
The political situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to be characterised by slow progress towards completion of the transition process. Ireland and the European Union are maintaining their strong engagement in support of the peace process in the DRC. Recent events, however, such as the ambush on a UN MONUC patrol by armed militia in the Ituri region on 25 February, which resulted in the tragic death of nine Bangladeshi peacekeepers, has underlined the volatility of the security situation in eastern DRC and the difficulty this poses in completing the transition process.
The Government condemns the killing of the Bangladeshi peacekeepers as well as all other attacks or efforts aimed at preventing MONUC from fulfilling its important mandate. I have written on behalf of the Government to the Bangladeshi Foreign Minister to convey our deepest condolences on these brutal and senseless killings. The UN Security Council also condemned the killings as "an unacceptable outrage" in a presidential statement adopted on 2 March. I join with the UN Secretary General and the Security Council in urging that every effort be made by the transitional national government in the DRC to apprehend those responsible. In this regard, I welcome the fact that a number of the leaders of the militia judged responsible for the ambush have now been taken into custody.
The continued existence of armed militias who prey upon the local population and are unwilling to acknowledge the authority of either the UN or the transitional government in Kinshasa represents a major threat to successful implementation of the transition process in the DRC. MONUC is performing a vital role in seeking to reduce the threat posed by these militias and deserves the full support of the international community for its efforts, in conjunction with the DRC government, to establish peace and security in the troubled eastern region.
The strong action which MONUC is now taking to confront armed militias in the Ituri region is welcome. I hope the UN Security Council will address the need to deal with other armed militias, such as the ex-FAR and Interahamwe, in the Kivu region — whose existence continues to be a source of tension between the DRC and Rwanda — when it considers renewal of MONUC's mandate before the end of March. The EU has made clear its willingness to assist the UN in the reinforcement of MONUC's capabilities to enable it to carry out its essential tasks.
It is encouraging that discussions on how to secure the effective disarmament of armed militias in the eastern DRC are taking place between the governments of the DRC, Rwanda and Uganda within the framework of the Tripartite Commission which these three countries agreed to establish last October, with US facilitation. These discussions, as well as the coming into operation last month of the joint border verification mechanism between the DRC and Rwanda, complement the overall efforts to broker a regional peace and security pact within the framework of the UN and African Union sponsored Great Lakes conference, following the initial summit of the conference last November. Ireland and the EU are playing an active role in support of the Great Lakes conference which it is hoped will culminate with adoption of a regional peace and security pact at a second summit in Nairobi next November.
The transitional national government has, of course, primary responsibility for re-establishing peace and security and effectively exercising its own authority throughout the DRC. Greater efforts are called for by the DRC Government in accelerating the creation of an integrated national army and police force and making a viable start to disarming, demobilising and rehabilitating the combatants who still carry arms, estimated at between 150,000 and 300,000, if a secure environment is to be created for the holding of national elections later this year.
The EU is actively collaborating with the transitional national government in supporting the process of security sector reform in the DRC, including through establishment of an integrated police unit, IPU, in Kinshasa, while further support in training integrated army brigades and police is also under consideration. Ireland has contributed €75,000 towards the costs of establishment of the IPU. The EU also provides substantial financial support for the process of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration, DDR, in the DRC.
The major priority for successful completion of the transition process in the DRC remains the holding of national elections later this year, as scheduled under the 2002 Sun City peace accords. A number of major legislative reforms, including drafting of a national constitution, still remain to be completed if the elections are to proceed, as scheduled, next June. There is provision under the peace accords for the elections to be deferred for up to one year, if necessary.
Substantial international support will be required for the holding of these elections which it is estimated could cost up to almost US$300 million to hold. The EU has already committed itself to provide some €85 million in electoral assistance while Ireland will also consider a possible contribution in support of the electoral process, once there is greater clarity as to the holding of the elections. A decision will also be taken closer to the elections as to whether the EU will participate in an electoral observer mission in the DRC, although nationally this is something which Ireland would strongly support.
73 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the humanitarian situation in Uganda and Ethiopia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7719/05]
Up to 1.4 million people have been displaced by the insurgency in northern Uganda, which has lasted for nearly 20 years. The Irish aid programme has provided support through the World Food Programme and to both Irish and local NGOs in support of the food and shelter needs of the displaced. In addition, Ireland has been to the fore of donor efforts to drive progress in brokering a permanent ceasefire between the government of Uganda and the Lord's Resistance Army, LRA, and to encourage the parties' engagement in a peace process. While two unilateral ceasefires declared by the Government have not resulted in a deal with the LRA on a permanent ceasefire, the donor supported efforts of an intermediary are continuing and there are grounds for guarded optimism.
In Ethiopia, Ireland has joined with a number of donor countries and the Government of Ethiopia in a safety nets programme promoting a new and more determined approach to the needs of those facing chronic and intermittent food shortages. The process involves the commitment of additional resources, a progressive focus on empowering communities, groups and families to tackle their own welfare needs and eventually a move away from a dependence on food aid to a more orthodox social welfare system.
This new approach to humanitarian needs in Ethiopia is motivated, first, by a broad consensus on the huge needs in the country and the related need to increase the donor provision; second, by the clear commitment of the Government of Ethiopia to taking up the challenges involved and, third, by the acceptance by all sides that a broad based approach, balancing welfare and development needs, is required to break the cyclical disposition of Ethiopia to food crises.
The engagement in humanitarian assistance in both Uganda and Ethiopia represents one element of a wider engagement by Development Co-operation Ireland in both countries. Ireland's aid programmes to the two countries endeavour to strike a balance between long-term development needs, aimed at helping countries to break out of poverty, and short-term assistance to those whose very existence is threatened by vulnerability resulting from even the most minor change in their circumstances.
74 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts being made to assist the London Irish Forum identify alternative premises; if he has made contact with the appropriate local authority on behalf of the Irish community in Luton in order that alternative premises can be identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7701/05]
I take it the Deputy is referring to the Luton Irish Forum, which is currently in discussions with the local council about its accommodation. We wish to be helpful in every possible way to the forum in its important work in providing advice, information and support services to Irish people. The Government, for instance, through the DION fund, is helping support the forum's key advice worker post.
The Luton Irish Forum has developed a good relationship with the Luton Borough Council. It has, for instance, been successful in accessing a number of local statutory grant streams, itself a positive reflection of the quality of services which it provides. The forum is currently located within a building that is owned by the borough council and that is, unfortunately, due to be closed. However, the forum's management is in ongoing consultations with the council and, in these consultations, it is supported by a community development worker from the Federation of Irish Societies, a post which is also supported financially by the Government through the DION fund. I understand that the council has proposed alternative options which are now under consideration by the forum.
Officials of the embassy in London and the Irish abroad unit met with the management of Luton Irish Forum as late as January this year. They will remain in close contact with the management with a view to being helpful in every way possible.
75 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the qualifying criterion for membership of the DION committee; the number of members of the DION committee who work at the frontline in the provision of welfare services to members of the Irish community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7700/05]
The practice relating to appointments to the DION committee, since it was established in 1984 by the then Minister for Labour, is that the Minister responsible appoints people to it who have a proven track record of working within the Irish community, as well as a keen awareness of the particular issues facing, and of concern to, our community in Britain.
The present membership of the committee comprises persons who have served in prominent positions in the Federation of Irish Societies, working in close collaboration with voluntary Irish organisations providing frontline services. It further comprises persons with particular knowledge and experience of health service issues and how these affect Irish emigrants, as well as those with an academic perspective on the experience of emigration. While I am open to extending the range of experience of members, and will review the situation from time to time, it has not been the practice to appoint members to the committee who are employed by frontline organisations in receipt of DION funding.
Apart from the chair and secretary, who are officials of the embassy in London and who act as the committee's secretariat, the committee members serve in a voluntary capacity and are not in receipt of any remuneration from the DION fund.
76 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the areas of enhanced co-operation which are envisaged by Protocol 24 of Article I-41(2) of the EU constitution which states that the Union shall draw up, together with the Western European Union, arrangements for enhanced co-operation between them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6751/05]
Article I-41(2) of the European constitution provides for the possibility of a common EU defence policy, should the European Council acting unanimously so decide. The article, which is carried over from previous treaties, also provides that the specific character of the security and defence policy of member states shall not be prejudiced. Under the terms of Bunreacht na hÉireann, Ireland may not participate in an EU common defence. It is the Government's intention to propose to the people that this prohibition be carried over in the context of the ratification of the European constitution.
While a number of member states, such as Ireland and Sweden, have security and defence policies that are characterised by a commitment to neutrality or non-alignment, other member states are members of NATO and of the Western European Union. In the same way as the European constitution safeguards the specific character of the security and defence policies of neutral and non-aligned member states, it also recognises the need for compatibility between the security and defence policy of the European Union and that of NATO and the Western European Union. In this context, Protocol 24 of Article I-41(2) carries over the provision for co-operation between the European Union and the Western European Union.
I am not aware of any current proposals for enhanced co-operation between the European Union and the Western European Union. It should be noted that the provisions of Protocol 24 are entirely separate from the general provisions for enhanced co-operation between EU member states, as provided for in Article I-44 of the European constitution.
77 Mr. English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the effect of a recent ruling of a rights commissioner on the Protection of Employees (Fixed-Term Work) Act 2003 on his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7638/05]
The implications of the rights commissioner's decision referred to by the Deputy are being carefully studied by the Department of Foreign Affairs and by the other Departments concerned in consultation with the Department of Finance. Some aspects of the decision raise fundamental issues for the Civil Service as an employer and may yet be referred to the Labour Court for consideration. The Deputy will appreciate that, in the circumstances, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this juncture.
78 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the proposals upon which NEPAD is based should be based on realistic economic assumptions, in view of the collapse in foreign direct investment in South Africa; his further views on the level of savings that it is suggested are necessary to this end from the indigenous sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7730/05]
As the Deputy will be aware, NEPAD, the new partnership for Africa's development, is an African owned and led initiative which is intended to promote and achieve sustainable development in Africa in the 21st century. It is based on the recognition that the primary responsibility for Africa's future lies not in the hands of donors or multilateral institutions but in the actions of Africa's governments and people. The objective of NEPAD is to eradicate poverty and place African countries on a path of sustainable growth and development. It is recognised that this must be pursued within a framework of active participation in the world economy and the global body politic.
The initiative was adopted by the then Organisation for African Unity, OAU, at its summit in Lusaka in July 2001. The OAU's successor, the African Union, AU, at its summit in Maputo in July 2003, decided that NEPAD should be gradually absorbed into the African Union structure over a period of approximately three years. This decision recognised the close inter-relationship between the AU, as the institutional framework for Africa's integration, and NEPAD as the logical socio-economic programme of the AU, and the wish of African leaders to see the two organisations avoid competition and converge.
NEPAD's priorities are to establish conditions for sustainable development by ensuring peace and security; democracy and good political, economic and corporate governance; regional co-operation and integration; and capacity building. It seeks to promote policy reforms and increased investment in the following priority sectors: agriculture; human development with a focus on health, education, science and technology and skills development; building and improving infrastructure, including information and communication technology, ICT, energy, transport, water and sanitation; promoting diversification of production and exports, particularly with respect to agro-industries, manufacturing, mining and tourism; accelerating intra-African trade and improving access to markets of developed countries; and the environment.
NEPAD has secured significant support from the UN, G8, EU and from individual donor countries, including Ireland. Donors are understandably attracted by the fact that NEPAD originated with African states and is essentially African owned and driven. In particular, given the difficulties in the past with the quality of government in some African states, they strongly support and encourage NEPAD's African peer review mechanism which scrutinises, monitors and reports on progress in good governance, both political and economic, through a forum of heads of state of participating countries.
The view of Ireland and of other donors is that NEPAD represents one of the more realistic initiatives to emerge in Africa in recent years. Its focus is to promote an African owned, collective approach to economic development. Ireland contributed €300,000 to NEPAD last year and is currently examining ways of providing more assistance.
The information available to me suggests that foreign direct investment in South Africa is holding up reasonably well. Indeed, in the context of the need for investment and access to capital, NEPAD represents an exciting African initiative which offers a genuine prospect that the needs of South Africa and the other countries of sub-Saharan Africa will be better promoted.
80 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position with regard to diplomatic relations between Ireland and Burma; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7608/05]
Ireland announced the establishment of diplomatic relations on a non-resident basis with Burma on 13 February 2004. However, given that the progress which had been anticipated in 2004, most notably the meeting of an open and unhindered national convention and the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, did not materialise, the Government has decided to put on hold the exchange of ambassadors. Any decision to proceed with such an exchange of ambassadors will have to await positive and significant moves by the Burmese Government.
The Government's continuing goal, and that of the EU, remains the release and restoration of liberty to Aung San Suu Kyi, the return of democracy to Burma, an end to human rights violations and the realisation of peace and prosperity for the long suffering people of Burma.
82 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on recent statements concerning press freedoms and civil rights in Russia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7643/05]
At the EU-US summit in Brussels on 22 February, the Taoiseach spoke about the relationship between the European Union and Russia. He had been invited to do so by the Luxembourg Presidency. The opportunity to share EU perspectives with President Bush ahead of his summit meeting with President Putin in Bratislava on 24 February was a valuable one. Other heads of state and government addressed other topics, also at the request of the Presidency.
For the European Union as for United States, our future relationship with the Russian Federation is an important priority. We have in common an interest in building and maintaining our own strategic partnerships with the Russian Federation. The Taoiseach made clear that the EU, for its part, is committed to developing a comprehensive relationship with Russia based on common values as well as shared interests.
In his statement, the Taoiseach referred positively to the rapid progress under way in economic co-operation between the EU and Russia and he reiterated the full support of the EU for Russian membership of the World Trade Organisation. However, he also noted Russia's reluctance to work co-operatively with the Union with respect to states in our common neighbourhood, its ongoing criticism of those EU member states which broke free from the Soviet Union and its policies in the OSCE. There was a noted disturbing trend within Russia of weakening respect for democratic standards and fundamental rights and freedoms, particularly freedom of the media, so that instead of a convergence of values, we feel a widening gap between us.
The Taoiseach showed understanding of the circumstances in which Russia and the Russian people found themselves following the break up of the Soviet Union. He said that the EU and United States could not afford to turn their backs but must continue to engage with Russia and to seek to develop economic and political ties. He made clear that Russia is a European country and that we must continue to deal with Russia according to the standards of democracy and human rights which Europe and America hold in common. Concerns should be made clear but in a constructive manner that will engage, rather than alienate, the Russian people. Underlining the need for an open and honest dialogue with Russia on all issues, he noted that we have to convince Russia of our shared interest in stability in Europe and encourage Moscow to use its influence to unlock the various "frozen conflicts" in the region.
It is encouraging to see that President Putin considered his summit meeting with President Bush a success. This would suggest that Russia is willing to engage on a wide range of political and economic issues of concern to the European Union as well as the United States. The Government wishes to maintain and develop warm, friendly and productive relations with Russia but we feel bound to express our concern when we see a retreat from the values which we believe the Irish and Russian people hold in common.
84 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding negotiations with the European Commission to make Irish an official language of the EU, in view of his commitment to make early progress on the matter; the types of issue that are arising in the ongoing negotiations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7710/05]
On 24 November last, the Government tabled a formal proposal in Brussels requesting that official and working status in the EU be accorded to the Irish language. On 13 December, I outlined to my counterparts at the General Affairs and External Relations Council the reasons for Ireland's request. In summary, the Government has proposed, in the context of official and working status being accorded to the Irish language, that certain key EU legislation — that adopted jointly by the Council and the European Parliament — would be translated into Irish. The Government's proposal also allows for the possibility, in the context of a review to take place not later than four years after the adoption of the proposal, of extending the range of documents to be translated into Irish.
The amendment of Regulation 1 of 1958, which governs the Union's language regime, is necessary if Irish is to be accorded official and working status in the EU. Such an amendment requires the unanimous approval of member states.
There is, I believe, a general understanding of our desire to see an enhanced status for the Irish language in the EU. Ireland has been discussing a number of aspects with other interested parties — the member states and EU institutions. The language regime, of course, is always a sensitive and complex matter with potential political and resource implications which we need to bear in mind as we proceed.
Building on these bilateral discussions, we look forward to the matter being considered by the committee of permanent representatives in the coming days. The Government will continue to work intensively to make early progress and to reach the desired outcome on this issue, which has the support of all parties in the House.
85 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the case of persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7714/05]
The case the Deputy refers to relates to five Cuban citizens who were convicted in the US in 2001 on charges ranging from espionage to conspiracy to murder, and whose appeal was heard in March 2004. The court's decision is awaited.
86 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has raised with his Argentine counterpart, or at European Union level, the implementation of the UN convention against torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment in that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7615/05]
Argentina has ratified the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and it has constitutional status in that country. On 10 December 2004, the Committee Against Torture published its conclusions and recommendations on Argentina's fourth periodic report under the convention. It welcomed, inter alia, the efforts made by Argentina to combat impunity in respect of crimes against humanity committed under the military dictatorship and that country’s recent ratification of the optional protocol to the convention. However, the committee also expressed a range of concerns, including about the many allegations of torture and ill treatment committed in a widespread and habitual manner by the security forces and state agencies, and made a series of recommendations to the government of Argentina aimed at preventing torture and ill treatment.
The President of Argentina, H. E. Nestor Kirchner, has pledged to make the effective protection of human rights a cornerstone of his agenda, and Ireland and our EU partners are encouraged by the clear indications that the government of Argentina has the will to improve the human rights situation. We look forward to the implementation of concrete measures to this end, particularly with regard to abuses committed by the security forces. I have not yet had the opportunity of meeting my Argentine counterpart but would look forward to discussing a range of issues of mutual interest with him. These would include human rights issues, particularly as both our countries are members of the UN Commission on Human Rights.
87 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the 2004 figures of 158,549 US troops using Shannon Airport as a refuelling base en route to the occupation of Iraq, including more than 22,000 troops in the month of September alone, and the implications for Irish neutrality. [7748/05]
The use of Shannon airport for transiting purposes by the US military is a long standing practice which has been ongoing for several decades. The Government's decision to allow US military personnel to continue to transit through Shannon Airport was endorsed by Dáil Éireann on 20 March 2003.
88 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the latest developments in negotiations surrounding EPAs under the Cotonou Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7743/05]
91 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the industries in Mozambique which he views as being able to sustain opening up to competition from South Africa; his views on the compatibility of this policy with the poverty reduction strategy consistent with Cotonou objectives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7742/05]
114 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the level and nature of consultations his Department has had with priority country governments and business community and civil society regarding their EPA related concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7740/05]
116 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the concerns of priority aid countries were reflected in Ireland’s internal EU position on EPAs; if they are catered for in the EU position on EPAs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7741/05]
141 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on reciprocal economic partnership agreements; his views on concerns that EPAs are another example of the dilution of African sovereignty regarding its economic future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7739/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 88, 91, 114, 116 and 141 together.
Under European Union regulations, it is the European Commission which conducts the negotiations on economic partnership agreements, EPAs, between the EU and six regional groupings of ACP states on behalf of the member states. The Commission provides the Council with regular updates on the progress of the negotiations. Ireland is actively following the developments in the EPA negotiations process. While Ireland, like the other member states, does not participate in the ongoing EPA negotiations, we are satisfied that the Commission is discharging its mandate in accordance with the provisions of the Cotonou Agreement and in a manner which is sensitive to the particular concerns of the ACP states.
The EPAs, which are to enter into force by 1 January 2008, are an integral element of the legally binding Cotonou Agreement between the African, Caribbean and Pacific, ACP, states and the European Union, EU. EPAs are first and foremost instruments for development that will foster the smooth and gradual integration of ACP states into the world economy, with due regard for their political choices and their development priorities, thereby promoting their sustainable development and contributing to poverty eradication in the ACP countries. They combine trade and wider development issues in a unified framework, while taking account of the specific economic, social and environmental circumstances of each regional group and its component states.
I am satisfied that this approach does not constitute a dilution of African sovereignty regarding its economic future and, furthermore, that it addresses the particular concern of Ireland that development and poverty reduction should be the principle objectives of the EPAs.
All the programme countries in Ireland's bilateral aid programme — Ethiopia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia and Timor Leste — are ACP states. In each of these countries, Ireland works in close co-operation with its partner government, other donors, the private sector and civil society to ensure coherence in our approach across a range of sectors. Among the issues discussed are the impact of EU policies, including EPAs, and the wider question of integration of LDCs into the international trading system. This approach will help build the economic infrastructure in these least developed countries, LDCs, which will lead to employment generation and ultimately to long-term sustainable development.
With regard to Mozambique, South Africa is its main foreign investor and strong trade links have developed between the two countries in recent years. It would not be appropriate for me to express a view on which specific industries in Mozambique, or indeed any other third country, could sustain competition from South Africa.
89 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government’s views on the United Nations’ attempts to reach agreement on an international declaration to recognise and protect the rights of indigenous peoples; the efforts Ireland has made to promote this declaration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7713/05]
In recent years, there have been significant advances in international thinking and action on indigenous issues and rights. The first International Decade of the World's Indigenous People took place from 1 January 1995 to 31 December 2004. The decade led to several positive developments, such as the establishment of a permanent forum on indigenous issues, and the appointment, in 2001, of a special rapporteur on the situation of the human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people, whose task is to gather and receive information and communications from all relevant sources, including governments, indigenous people themselves and their communities and organisations, on violations of their human rights and fundamental freedoms. The United Nations General Assembly, in December 2004, unanimously adopted a resolution proclaiming a second International Decade of the World's Indigenous People, which commenced on 1 January 2005.
One of the initiatives arising out of the first decade was the establishment of an open ended inter-sessional working group on the draft declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples. This working group was established in 1995 in accordance with Commission on Human Rights Resolution 1995/32 and Economic and Social Council Resolution 1995/32. The working group has the sole purpose of elaborating a draft declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples, considering the draft contained in the annex to Resolution 1994/45 of 26 August 1994, entitled draft "United Nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples". Special measures, including financial assistance, are in place to facilitate participation by representatives of indigenous peoples in the proceedings of the working group.
The working group on the draft declaration is a subsidiary organ of the Commission on Human Rights and is composed of representatives of member states. It meets in Geneva. Ireland takes part in the working group's deliberations, as do other member states of the European Union. While the Government is well disposed to the declaration in principle, a definitive position will have to await the final text.
It was intended that the text of the draft declaration would be finalised by the working group in time for its consideration and adoption by the General Assembly during the first International Decade of the World's Indigenous People. This has not proved possible and work continues on a number of articles. The next session of the working group will take place in September 2005. It is expected the Commission on Human Rights, at its next session which begins on 14 March, will decide to extend the mandate of the working group by another year.
90 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the political situation in Liberia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7609/05]
While Liberia has made remarkable progress since the comprehensive peace agreement of August 2003, it still faces the major challenges of a successful return to democracy and sustaining the peace process. Liberia is currently administered by a transitional government, under the chairmanship of Mr. Gyude Bryant, until parliamentary and presidential elections are held before the end of 2005.
The limited capacity of the transitional government to provide social services and consolidate state authority is an ongoing concern. Elections are scheduled for 11 October and voter registration will take place from during April and May. The cost of the elections is expected to amount to US$17.5 million and the EU has pledged €4.5 million in electoral support. This election will mark the return of Liberia to a constitutional democracy after 14 years of civil war.
Despite recent improvements in the security situation in UN controlled areas, the peace process remains fragile and many serious issues remain to be effectively addressed. The situation is generally stable in Monrovia but less so in other areas. Sporadic outbreaks of fighting in rebel strongholds highlight the need for a comprehensive process of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration. The fragility of peace in Liberia became apparent at the end of October 2004 when a weekend of violence shook Monrovia in which 16 people were killed. In January, there were reports of some disturbances in the south-eastern part of the country, which are thought to be linked to rumoured ritual killings in the particular area. Renewed fighting in Cote d'Ivoire could also threaten stability in Liberia.
The United Nations mission in Liberia, UNMIL, was established on 19 September 2003 by UN Security Council Resolution 1509. The primary task of UNMIL is to observe and monitor implementation of the ceasefire agreement which was concluded by the Liberian parties in June 2003. More broadly, UNMIL's role is to support the implementation of the comprehensive peace agreement of 18 August 2003. This includes facilitating the organisation of the October elections.
The Irish contingent comprises a motorised infantry battalion of some 430 personnel, together with a small number of additional personnel deployed at force headquarters and as military observers. The Government is of the view that the deployment of UNMIL is critically important in supporting the implementation of the comprehensive peace agreement and for the political and economic recovery of Liberia. Our personnel have been widely commended for the professionalism of their work.
The UNMIL programme of disarmament, demobilisation, rehabilitation and reintegration, DDRR, for rebel groups recommenced on 15 April 2004. Disarmament and demobilisation was concluded on 31 October. On 3 November all the armed groups were formally disbanded. According to the UN, almost 103,000 former combatants have been disarmed and 27,000 rifles, over 7 million rounds of ammunition and 29,830 rounds of heavy ammunition recovered. Collection of small numbers of weapons is continuing.
Due to the fact that the number of combatants disarmed greatly exceeded original estimates, the DDRR programme has encountered significant financial problems and an additional US$58 million is required for reintegration. Ireland contributed €500,000 in 2004 to support the DDRR process and we plan to provide additional funding in 2005. Since 85% of Liberians are unemployed, creation of employment and education opportunities for the ex-combatants is extremely important if stability is to be maintained in the country. Significant strides have also been made in restructuring and reforming Liberia's police force and the USA is providing material and technical support to restructure and reform the army.
President McAleese, accompanied by the Minister for Defence, Deputy O'Dea, visited Liberia on 14 December 2004 and met Chairman Bryant, United Nations special representative in Liberia, Mr. Jacques Klein, and the Irish battalion. Chairman Bryant visited Ireland in November 2004 and expressed his gratitude for the invaluable role that Ireland has played in Liberia. The Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces visited the Irish battalion in February.
In December 2004, the United Nations Security Council renewed its trade sanctions against Liberia, extending bans on timber exports and arms imports to the country for another year. The timber sanctions may be reviewed after six months. The ban on diamond exports was extended for six months but will be reviewed after three months, with a view to lifting this measure as soon as possible. The sanctions were originally imposed to stop ex-President Charles Taylor from using foreign earnings to fuel conflict in Liberia and the region in general. The European Union also renewed Article 96 measures against Liberia in December in line with the UN Security Council sanctions, as it was agreed that Liberia had not made enough progress in areas such as human rights, governance and the judicial system to warrant an easing of sanctions at this time.
At the Liberia reconstruction conference in New York in February 2004, Ireland pledged bilateral assistance of €5 million over two years. Over €2 million of this amount was disbursed in 2004 and the balance will be disbursed during 2005, with a continuing focus on humanitarian needs and the rehabilitation of key sectors such as education and health. Ireland will continue to encourage all parties in and around Liberia to carry out their commitments and obligations under the comprehensive peace agreement. We will lend active support to the work of the United Nations special representative in Liberia, Jacques Klein, and to the EU special representative for the region, Mr. Hans Dahlgren of Sweden.
92 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the current priority countries for overseas development aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7626/05]
127 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on progress made towards expanding the Development Co-operation Ireland programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7717/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 92 and 127 together.
Ireland's development programme is over 30 years old. It delivers aid to some of the poorest countries in the world. Aid is delivered through bilateral, direct government-to-government assistance and through multilateral organisations.
The bilateral part of the Irish aid programme is concentrated in a number of countries, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa. These countries, known as the programme countries, are Lesotho, Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda, Mozambique, Ethiopia and Timor Leste. Following a decision by the Government in late 2003, Vietnam will be added to the list, bringing the total number of countries to eight.
The first three of the countries, Lesotho, Zambia and Tanzania, were chosen in the 1970s in each case following representations from their then leaders who argued convincingly that they were hugely disadvantaged as frontline states by the apartheid related divisions in southern Africa. In the 1990s, in line with expansion in the aid programme, consideration was given to increasing the number of countries and a poverty needs assessment was carried out on a number of countries, arising from which it was decided to add three of the world's poorest countries to the list, Ethiopia, Uganda and Mozambique. For similar reasons, Timor Leste was added in 2003.
A high level review of the aid programme in 2002/03, the Ireland Aid Review, recommended that consideration be given to the inclusion of one of the countries of South East Asia. Following an examination of the recommendation over two years, a proposal was put to Government late last year recommending that Vietnam be selected as the eighth programme country, acting as a centre for the management of both an aid programme in Vietnam itself and to address the needs in the two neighbouring poor countries, Laos and Cambodia.
In all of the existing programme countries there is a broad based development programme focused on poverty reduction and economic development and driven by the need to make progress on the millennium development goals. Country programmes focus on assistance in education and health, including in the war on HIV-AIDS, on water and sanitation, rural access roads and the promotion of good governance.
As the allocations for the aid programme continue to expand, consideration will be given to assisting further programme countries. As noted by the OECD in its last peer review of the Irish programme, the geographic concentration which Ireland is able to bring to its bilateral engagement is a significant advantage and expansion should be approached carefully. Ireland has taken this advice on board and will consult widely with aid stakeholders in consideration of any new programme countries. This issue will be among those considered in the White Paper process.
93 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the effect which the recent suicide bomb in the Iraqi city of Hilla, which killed at least 125 persons, will have on the prospects for stable government in the country following the recent elections; the prospects for security in Iraq following the bombing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7707/05]
97 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the security situation in Iraq; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7588/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 93 and 97 together.
The security situation in Iraq has continued to be a source of great concern. Violent attacks in Iraq increased in intensity in the lead-up to the elections on 30 January, and have continued since. In this regard, there seems to have been a change in focus, with attacks now directed more at Iraqi officials, security forces and ordinary civilians in Shia areas, and less at international forces. Last week's horrendous bombing in Hilla, which killed at least 125 people and injured many more, is the worst instance of this pattern. The aim of these attacks seems to be to prevent the Iraqi authorities from establishing effective institutions and security forces, which would make possible the departure of international forces, and also to provoke retaliation from the Shia community.
It is more and more evident that the insurgents who carry out these brutal attacks have set themselves not only against democracy but against the Iraqi people themselves.
94 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his discussions with the US authorities on the issue of covertly rendered prisoners being brought illegally through Shannon Airport. [7747/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 152 of 2 February 2005, and to previous replies given on this matter. The matter has been raised again in recent days in discussions with the US authorities. They have again confirmed that they do not use Irish airports for this purpose and that they would not seek to use Irish airports for prisoner transit without seeking the authorisation of the Irish authorities.
95 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the conduct of the upcoming elections in Zimbabwe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7624/05]
107 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the way in which Ireland will respond to the likely eventuality that the elections on 31 March 2005 in Zimbabwe will not be in accordance with international and SADC principles for the holding of free and fair elections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7745/05]
119 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs Ireland’s and the EU’s role in election observation in view of the fact that the Zimbabwean Government has silenced another independent voice (details supplied) on 1 March 2005 and that this represents further evidence that the 31 March 2004 elections can be neither free nor fair; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7744/05]
256 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the situation in Zimbabwe with particular reference to progress toward democratic principles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7995/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 95, 107, 119 and 256 together.
The parliamentary elections scheduled to take place in Zimbabwe on 31 March will represent an important test in determining the willingness of the Zimbabwean Government to effect genuine political reforms and improve the situation in that country as regards democracy, good governance and respect for human rights. Ireland and our EU partners believe firmly that, for the parliamentary elections at the end of this month to be free and fair, they must be held in accordance with the principles and guidelines on democratic elections adopted by the Southern African Development Community, SADC, summit in Mauritius last August.
The Zimbabwean Government initially stated it would meet these requirements. To date, however, there has been little sign of such compliance, such as through the lifting of repressive legislation and the opening up of political space to opposition parties in Zimbabwe. If anything, the political and human rights situation has deteriorated in recent months, with the passing of repressive legislation imposing severe restrictions on the operations of non-governmental organisations, NGOs, particularly those in the human rights and humanitarian fields. Ireland, both nationally and as part of the EU, has made known our concerns to the Zimbabwean authorities regarding the possible implications of this new legislation governing humanitarian organisations operating in Zimbabwe. These concerns have also been raised at EU level with the other members of SADC.
The absence of any progress towards meeting benchmarks on promotion of democracy and increasing respect for human rights and the rule of law in Zimbabwe led the European Union on 15 February 2005 to renew its common position imposing targeted sanctions against members of the Zimbabwean ruling elite. Developments since then do not give rise to any greater grounds for optimism that fair and equitable conditions are being created for a free and transparent election to take place.
Members of the Movement for Democratic Change, MDC, continue to be harassed and subject to state violence and arrest for attempting to campaign. The Weekly News newspaper in Bulawayo was banned by the Zimbabwean Government on 25 February, bringing to four the number of newspapers forcibly shut down by the government in the past two years. The repressive Public Order and Security Act, POSA, continues to be used to ban MDC meetings and prevent free political activity. Notwithstanding such intimidatory actions, the MDC has, albeit with some reluctance, decided to contest the election. I welcome this decision by the MDC, taken in such arduous and difficult circumstances.
The Zimbabwean Government has belatedly issued invitations in the past two weeks to 32 countries, as well as a number of regional organisations, including the African Union, AU, and SADC, to observe the forthcoming elections. No EU country has been invited to observe the elections. Russia is the only European country to receive such an invitation. The belatedly issued invitations are a breach of the SADC guidelines adopted last August, since these stipulate that observers must be invited 90 days before polling day.
The Zimbabwean Government also failed to facilitate a top level legal SADC pre-election mission visiting the country. The EU is continuing to engage closely with SADC and key member states such as South Africa, urging them to use all the influence they have to ensure that Zimbabwe complies to the fullest extent possible with the SADC guidelines in advance of the election. The EU is also encouraging SADC to report objectively on the conduct of the elections, including by indicating clearly where the Zimbabwean Government has failed to comply in substance or in spirit with the SADC guidelines.
In the limited time available before the elections, Ireland, along with our EU partners, will continue to urge the Zimbabwean Government to introduce those political reforms which are necessary if the parliamentary elections are to be held in full accordance with the SADC guidelines. Drawing on any election observation report produced by SADC and other organisations such as the AU, and the reports of EU resident diplomats, Zimbabwean and international NGOs, and civil society, Ireland and its EU partners will form their own judgment in due course as to the conduct of the elections and what implications this may have for the EU's future relations with Zimbabwe.
96 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the impact the recent bombing in Tel Aviv will have on the recent ceasefires declared in the Middle East; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7698/05]
I have issued a statement condemning in the strongest terms the bomb attack in Tel Aviv last weekend, in which five people were killed. I also expressed my sympathies to those injured in the blast and to the families of those who died or were injured.
Such violence is particularly distressing at a time when the peace process is beginning to give rise to renewed hope for the people of the region. Violence has brought nothing but suffering to Palestinians and Israelis alike. A just and lasting peace is the only basis on which Palestinians and Israelis can live in security and prosperity. This requires compromise on all sides. Leaders with the courage to make compromises in the cause of a just and lasting peace deserve the support of their people and the international community.
I have called on all groups to cease violence and all governments to cease support for violence and incitement. I have also appealed to the Israeli Government not to allow those who carried out and supported this atrocity, with the purpose of provoking Israel and diverting it from the path to peace, to succeed in their aim. It is vital that both Israel and Palestine maintain their commitment to the undertakings entered into at the Sharm El Sheikh summit to bring an end to all violence in the region.
98 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the deteriorating situation in Darfur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7732/05]
112 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the application of an arms embargo on the government of Sudan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7618/05]
139 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the situation in Sudan; the action of the Government in assisting in the provision of humanitarian assistance in the Darfur region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7623/05]
142 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the situation in Sudan in general and Darfur in particular and on the findings of an international commission of inquiry mandated by the Security Council of the United Nations, due to report back on 25 January 2005; the interventions which Ireland has made in the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7737/05]
266 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he expects to be in a position to influence the international community with a view to addressing the conflict, human rights and starvation issues in Darfur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8006/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 98, 112, 139, 142 and 266 together.
The political, human rights and humanitarian situation in the Darfur region of Sudan remains a matter of the deepest concern for Ireland. The Government continues to use all avenues open to it to urge action in addressing the urgent humanitarian, security and political challenges which exist there. I specifically raised the need for international action on Darfur at the meeting between the EU Foreign Ministers and the US Secretary of State in Brussels on 22 February.
The United Nations, the African Union and the EU have been centrally involved in efforts to address the Darfur crisis since it erupted over two years ago. While some progress has been made, especially with regard to the improvement of the humanitarian situation, recent reports by UN special representative, Mr. Jan Pronk, provide further and deeply worrying evidence that both the Sudan Government and the rebels are continuing to violate the ceasefire agreements mediated by the African Union. Violent attacks by both sides in the conflict have heightened the atmosphere of insecurity. This is affecting the delivery of humanitarian aid and preventing the return to their homes of the 1.8 million people who have been displaced in Darfur and the 200,000 refugees in Chad.
Sustained international pressure therefore needs to be maintained on all the parties to honour their commitments, improve the security situation in Darfur and achieve a speedy political settlement. The government of Sudan must accept its responsibility for security and the protection of its own citizens by disbanding the Janjaweed militia and bringing all those responsible for serious human rights violations to justice. There must also be an end to any attempts at forced relocation of internally displaced persons. The rebels, for their part, must cease all attacks and ceasefire violations. All sides must co-operate fully and constructively with the international presence in Darfur, including the UN, the African Union and all engaged in the humanitarian effort.
The African Union's ceasefire monitoring mission, AMIS II, is playing a vital role in improving security on the ground in Darfur. Ireland and the EU are co-operating closely with the African Union in support of this mission and are providing substantial financial and logistical support to it. AU mediated peace negotiations on Darfur are due to resume in Abuja later this month. We urge the Sudanese Government and the rebel groups to re-commit themselves fully to this process, with a view to reaching an early agreement.
Ending impunity and bringing to justice those guilty of serious human rights violation is also essential for resolution of the conflict in Darfur. Therefore, I welcome the report of the UN's International Commission of Inquiry on whether serious violations of human rights, international humanitarian law and genocide have occurred in Darfur, which was published during February. While stopping short of a finding of genocide, the commission established that serious and systematic abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law have been committed and recommended that its report be referred by the UN Security Council to the International Criminal Court, ICC, so that those responsible can be brought to justice. Ireland is a strong supporter of the ICC and we fully agree that it would be the most appropriate body to try those accused of these dreadful crimes. I strongly urge that the UN Security Council take a speedy and positive decision on the commission's recommendation.
The EU has implemented a comprehensive arms embargo against Sudan since 1994. On 30 July 2004, the UN Security Council imposed an embargo on the sale or supply of weapons to all non-governmental entities and individuals, including the Janjaweed, operating in Darfur. Extension of this embargo to the government of Sudan is one measure currently being discussed by the Security Council.
In January 2005, a comprehensive peace agreement for southern Sudan was signed in Nairobi between the Sudan Government and the Sudan Peoples Liberation Movement-Army, SPLM/A. This extremely welcome agreement put an end to the tragic civil war in the south, which has lasted for over 20 years. The UN Security Council is also considering the mandate for a UN peace support operation which would assist in implementation of the agreement. This mission of approximately 10,000 personnel would focus on providing political support to the peace process, security and monitoring aspects, support for governance and humanitarian assistance and development over a seven year period.
Ireland provided €5.88 million in humanitarian support to the Darfur region in 2004, while an additional almost €4 million was provided for the work of GOAL, Concern and Trócaire in other parts of Sudan. In 2005, Ireland will continue to respond to the needs in Darfur. A special donor pledging conference for Sudan will be held in Oslo on 11/12 April. Ireland will be represented at ministerial level at this conference and we will deliver a substantial pledge to assist in addressing the acute and critical needs of the people of Sudan. In advance of this conference, a mission led by my colleague, the Minster of State, Deputy Conor Lenihan, is scheduled to travel to Darfur.
99 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the work being undertaken by the Government to assist in the humanitarian operation in Asia, following the December 2004 tsunami; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7594/05]
151 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he intends to increase the level of aid given in response to the December 2004 Asia tsunami; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7647/05]
162 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding Irish involvement in the ongoing relief effort following the tsunami disaster in south Asia, particularly in regard to the work of Irish aid agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7711/05]
254 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the level of funding forwarded to tsunami relief; and when further funding will be given. [7670/05]
259 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the areas in which Irish donated funding has been spent following the south east Asia disaster; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7999/05]
260 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount of international aid already spent and the locations following the tsunami disaster; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8000/05]
261 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he has monitored the delivery of funds to the required areas following the tsunami disaster; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8001/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 99, 151, 162, 254 and 259 to 261, inclusive, together.
The Government responded immediately in the aftermath of the terrible earthquake and tsunami disaster which struck south Asia and east Africa on 26 December last. On that day the Government pledged €1 million in immediate assistance. As the true scale of the disaster became clear, Ireland made further financial commitments. A total of €20 million has been committed to respond to the needs of those affected by the tsunami.
I believe that the response by Ireland in committing this level of funding is appropriate to the situation and well in line with the other largest donors globally. There has been an unprecedented international response to the tsunami disaster. Current estimates on international pledges stand at over €4.5 billion. The UN flash appeal is almost fully subscribed, a most unusual event so soon after its launch.
The key challenges for the international donor community, affected country governments and aid agencies are to ensure that pledges are honoured and that the available recovery and reconstruction funds are used to best effect. This will be a complex operation given the scale of the damage, the size of the response and the multiplicity of donors and agencies. Strong co-ordination, transparency and accountability are the keys to a successful outcome.
Government funding of €9.5 million has already been allocated and is currently being provided to a broad range of NGOs, UN agencies and other international organisations, with a proven capacity to respond well under difficult circumstances. Assistance is being provided to the NGOs Christian Aid Ireland, Christian Children's Fund Ireland, Concern, GOAL, Trócaire, Oxfam Ireland, Plan Ireland and World Vision Ireland. In addition, funding has been provided to the UN — UN Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs, UNICEF, Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, World Health Organisation and the World Food Programme, the International Red Cross and the International Organisation for Migration.
Areas of concentration for Irish funded agencies include shelter, livelihood restoration and water and sanitation system repair. This assistance is focused primarily on India, Indonesia and Sri Lanka, the countries most directly affected. Ireland's assistance has also been delivered regionally through the UN system and the Red Cross family, for example, to Burma via the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Ireland has also been instrumental in developing EU policy in response to the tsunami. Two General Affairs and External Relations Councils, GAERC, have addressed the Union's response to the tsunami. At the extraordinary Council on the tsunami on 7 January, the Council stressed, at Ireland's instigation, the importance of ensuring that the resources released in the context of recent events be additional to existing development commitments. At the Council on 31 January, an action plan was adopted by EU Foreign Ministers. Ireland helped to shape this action plan, which will improve the EU's response to the tsunami and provide the basis for improvements in response to similar catastrophes in the future.
At a meeting of EU Development Ministers in Luxembourg on 14/15 February, we discussed follow-up actions on the tsunami, including evaluation. We also reaffirmed the key role to be played by the United Nations and the affected countries during the recovery phase, which we have now entered.
Former Minister of State, Mr. Chris Flood, who was appointed by the Government as envoy to the affected region, has returned from a visit to Sri Lanka and Indonesia. During his visit, he had discussions with representatives of the affected governments, non-governmental organisations, the UN and other aid agencies and individuals directly affected by the tsunami. The envoy's report, and that of the technical team from my Department, will continue to inform our approach to the post-tsunami recovery and reconstruction.
Our aim is to ensure that Government funds are expended to best effect and to contribute as proactively as possible to the ongoing dialogue and consultations surrounding the international and national aid efforts. It is clear that it will take years for the affected countries to fully recover from the effects of the tsunami. The Government will continue to provide support to these countries in the period ahead.
100 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recent assassination of the former Prime Minister of the Lebanon, Mr. Rafiq Hariri; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7628/05]
152 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his position and views on the recent assassination of the former Prime Minister of Lebanon, Mr. Rafik Hariri; his views on the impact this is likely to have on the Middle East and the delicate negotiations between Palestine and Israel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7712/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 100 and 152 together.
Both the Taoiseach and I have expressed our shock at the murder of former Prime Minister Hariri, and condemned the appalling attack which took his life and those of so many other people. Mr. Hariri was Prime Minister of Lebanon for a total period of ten years. He played a critical role in bringing Lebanon forward from the era of the protracted civil war and was especially active in the reconstruction of the Lebanese economy. The reaction to his murder of ordinary Lebanese from across community divides bears eloquent testimony to the high regard in which he was held.
Investigations are continuing to determine responsibility for the attack. The UN investigation is being led by Garda Deputy Commissioner Peter FitzGerald. The Government was very pleased to be in a position to assist the Secretary General in undertaking this investigation and we wish Deputy Commissioner FitzGerald every success in addressing the challenges ahead of him and bringing the investigation to a satisfactory conclusion.
It is quite clear that the murder of the former prime minister has the potential to be a very destabilising influence in Lebanese politics. While the public response has been remarkable and may lead to profound changes in Lebanon in the immediate future, we must welcome the fact that protests have been peaceful and that restraint has prevailed upon all sides. It is to be hoped that this will continue to be the case and we call on all Lebanese political leaders to unite in determination to ensure that violence has no place in Lebanese politics.
Obviously developments in Lebanon may have an effect on the political processes under way in the wider region. In the current climate of uncertainty, it would be premature to speculate as to how the situation in Lebanon will ultimately resolve itself. What is clear, however, is that an independent, stable and prosperous Lebanon would be a positive development for the entire region. The Government wishes to see UN Security Council Resolution 1559 implemented in full, including withdrawal of all remaining foreign forces from Lebanon.
101 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the nature of his discussions with the British Secretary of State for Northern Ireland at the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference in Dublin on 2 March 2005; his views on the prospects for political progress in the North ahead of the Westminster elections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7702/05]
Together with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Mr. Paul Murphy MP, I co-chaired a meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference in Dublin on 2 March. I was accompanied at the meeting by my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell. The Secretary of State was accompanied by Mr. John Spellar MP and Mr. Ian Pearson MP, Ministers of State at the Northern Ireland Office. Copies of the communiqué of the meeting have been placed in the Oireachtas Library.
The conference reviewed recent political developments, including the impact on the process of the Northern Bank raid and the murder of Robert McCartney. The conference commended the dignity and courage of the McCartney family and called for those responsible to be made accountable before the courts. We also looked ahead to the period following the May elections and discussed the options open to the two Governments to achieve political progress. The Taoiseach subsequently met with Prime Minister Blair on 3 March in London to review the current political situation. The conference discussed a number of security and policing issues and reviewed the prospects for the forthcoming marching season, which it hoped would be peaceful and orderly.
Both Governments provided updates on the establishment of the inquiries recommended by Judge Cory. The Government requested that the Finucane inquiry be set up in line with the Weston Park commitments. On the general issue of dealing with the past, the conference noted the Secretary of State's recent announcement of the appointment of a Victims and Survivors Commissioner.
Both Governments reiterated their commitment to progressing work in the areas of equality and human rights and reviewed ongoing North/South and East/West activity within the framework of the Agreement. Following the conference, the Secretary of State and I signed a memorandum of understanding authorising TG4 to use a British frequency to broadcast in Northern Ireland. This further step in the implementation of the Agreement means that over 90% of the population of Northern Ireland will now be in a position to receive TG4.
Recent legislation to ensure carry over of the current electoral register in Northern Ireland was welcomed, as was work under way by the British Government which aims to make electoral registration more effective. The conference tasked officials to work together on the question of donations to political parties, so as to ensure that the long-term arrangements put in place are fair, transparent and in the spirit of the Agreement. In addition, the Government raised concerns about nationality requirements for public service posts in Northern Ireland and discussed the City of Derry airport and the issue of illegal dumping on the island of Ireland.
The British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference is an important forum, through which the implementation of commitments under the Agreement can be driven forward by both Governments. Accordingly, the conference will meet again in May. In the meantime, consultations aimed at finding a political way forward will continue with the British Government and the parties. The Governments will continue to encourage all parties to fully adhere to democratic norms and will focus their energies on fully implementing the Agreement and realising its promise of a peaceful, democratic future for the people of Northern Ireland.
102 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has considered the Amnesty International report on human rights violations concerning the Kurds in Syria published in February 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7614/05]
Ireland and its EU partners have continuing concerns about the general human rights situation in Syria, including the position of the Kurdish minority. We continue to avail of all appropriate opportunities to engage with the Syrian authorities about these concerns and to raise specific issues where this appears to be appropriate. The Syrian authorities are well aware of the EU's concerns about rights of freedom of assembly, freedom of speech and the rights of minorities. When the recently concluded EU association agreement with Syria comes into force, this will provide an additional mechanism for raising these concerns.
I am aware from Amnesty International reports and other sources of the matters referred to regarding Kurds in Syria, and specifically the case of 15 Syrian Kurds charged with rioting following disturbances in a number of areas in March 2004. The EU missions in Damascus are aware of the case and, indeed, EU representatives were refused admission to the court during the proceedings. The EU will continue to raise its concerns about this case, and human rights issues in general, with the Syrian authorities.
103 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has contacted his American counterpart with regard to the occasionally extended detention of Irish citizens before deportation from the US; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7606/05]
The position is that all foreign citizens, regardless of nationality, detained in the US in respect of immigration violations, are likely to be held for up to eight weeks while the deportation process is completed. The US Department of Homeland Security has indicated that this timeframe arises from the logistical and administrative procedures involved in deporting an individual from the US, including on occasion the transfer of an individual to an immigration detention centre, the scheduling of flights, the provision of a ten day notification procedure to the US Embassy in the receiving country and the provision of an escort by immigration officials if required.
My Department has monitored this process in so far as it has applied to Irish citizens in the US. Reflecting our concern we have made representations, including on humanitarian grounds in individual cases. I will also do so directly with the Secretary of State at a future meeting. I also took the opportunity to raise this and other immigration related issues at a meeting with the US Ambassador in December, and I likewise raised our concerns with senior figures on Capitol Hill last month.
104 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the World Council of Churches call for divestment from Israel; his position on same; the details of the Government’s investments in Israel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7746/05]
I am aware of the document to which the Deputy refers, in which the central committee of the World Council of Churches "reminds churches with investment funds that they have an opportunity to use those funds responsibly in support of peaceful solutions to conflict" and refers to the possibility of selective divestment from multinational corporations involved with practices in breach of international law in the occupied Palestinian territories. I am not aware of any direct Government investments in Israel.
The Government is concerned at continuing breaches of international humanitarian law in the occupied Palestinian territories. The Government, both bilaterally and together with our partners in the European Union, has regularly conveyed its concerns to the Israeli authorities at the human rights implications of its security policies and stressed the importance of Israel complying with international humanitarian law.
105 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the growing number of unlawful killings in Nepal as the current conflict between the government of that country and the Communist Party of Nepal intensifies; if the Government has raised this matter at international and European Union level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7731/05]
A rebellion against the monarchy of Nepal, led by the extreme left wing Nepal Communist Party — Maoists — has been ongoing since 1996. The insurgency has, to date, claimed approximately 10,000 lives. The rebels are fighting to abolish the constitutional monarchy and establish a socialist state in the Himalayan kingdom. It is estimated that more than 40% of the country is now under Maoist control.
On 29 January 2003, a ceasefire was declared by the Nepalese Government and the Maoist rebels. The ceasefire proposed to lead to further negotiations between the government and the Maoists and eventually to free and fair elections. On 13 March 2003, Nepal's government and the rebels agreed to release all prisoners of war and announced guidelines for peace talks. Three rounds of peace talks took place on 27 April, 9 May and 17 to 19 August 2003 but the process collapsed on 27 August 2003 when the Maoists stated they were withdrawing from the ceasefire because agreements reached had not been implemented and because the government would not agree to its demands, including setting up a constituent assembly. Fighting has continued since then.
On 1 February 2005, King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev dismissed the country's government and declared a state of emergency, under Article 35 of the constitution. This suspended all civil liberties except habeas corpus, although there remains considerable confusion about which rights have been suspended. Party leaders were put under house arrest or detained in barracks, all telephone communications and Internet access was cut and the media were subject to strict military censorship or closed altogether. A heavier than normal security presence, including both the Royal Nepalese Army and police, appeared on the streets of Kathmandu and other major cities.
There are reports that the conflict has intensified in rural areas as both sides seek to influence civilian populations. These reports include the use of schools and school children as instruments of the power struggle, creation of village militias, lynching of Maoists by local villagers and mutilations by the Maoists of those breaking the blockade they imposed in early February in response to the king's actions.
The EU issued a statement on 2 February 2005, describing the king's takeover as a serious setback to multi-party democracy, expressing concern at the restrictions on civil liberties and human rights violations and calling for a negotiated and democratically based solution to the conflict. On 8 February 2005, the local EU Presidency had an audience with the king, during which the EU's deep concern at the king's actions, and the difficulties these actions had caused for the monarchy, both in Nepal and internationally, was expressed. The king was urged to release political prisoners immediately, lift the current restrictions on civil liberties and reach out to political parties.
On 14 February 2005, the ambassadors of EU member states, Norway and the US were recalled to their capitals for consultations in a concerted move designed to show that the international community did not condone the king's actions. The Indian Ambassador was recalled to New Delhi some days earlier and India also requested the postponement of the planned summit of the South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation, SAARC, planned for Dhaka from 6-7 February 2005, largely as an expression of its displeasure at events in Nepal.
On 28 February 2005, the EU issued a further statement in which it called on the king to take early measures to restore democratic freedoms and civil liberties and to lift the emergency powers he introduced following the takeover of power on 1 February. The statement also expressed the EU's concerns about the current human rights crisis in Nepal, the serious and systematic human rights violations by both sides in the conflict and the dangers posed to respect for human rights by the intensification of the conflict. EU heads of mission have now returned to Kathmandu. They continue to report on and monitor the situation closely.
106 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the African countries in respect of which the international community is most concerned regarding human rights violations; the extent to which the EU and UN can address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7689/05]
Africa is a continent beset by often seemingly insurmountable problems such as conflict, debt, poverty, HIV/AIDS and the abuse of human rights. However, the African Union represents an important strategic partner for the European Union and one with whom ever closer relations are being forged in the interests of promoting peace, security, democracy and development on the African continent.
The aims of the African Union include the promotion of peace, security, stability, democratic principles and good governance on the continent and also the promotion and protection of human rights in accordance with the African Charter on Human and People's Rights and other relevant human rights instruments. Ireland and the EU are working closely with the AU to further these aims since the organisation was established in 2002.
During the 2004 session of the UN Commission on Human Rights, the EU, under the co-ordination of the Irish Presidency, successfully undertook a number of initiatives on Africa. These included the appointment of an independent expert to monitor the human rights situation in Sudan, agreement with the African Union of a resolution on the Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC, and the adoption of a resolution on providing assistance for the promotion of human rights in Somalia. The EU also supported resolutions tabled by the African Union on Chad, Sierra Leone and Burundi.
The EU tabled a resolution on Zimbabwe which was, regrettably, not adopted. However, the commitment of the Irish Presidency and its promotion of active engagement with the African Union bore fruit, in that clear African concern about the situation in that country was expressed in Nigeria's explanation of its vote for the no-action motion which caused the EU's resolution to fail. At the most recent session of the United Nations General Assembly last autumn, an EU sponsored resolution on the situation in the DRC was passed, while no-action motions unfortunately prevented resolutions on Sudan and Zimbabwe from succeeding.
Ireland closely monitors developments in the human rights situation of African countries and promotes appropriate action at bilateral, EU and UN levels. The European Union is currently discussing which resolutions it will table at the next session of the UN Commission on Human Rights which will commence in Geneva on 14 March. Ireland will continue to play an active role in this process.
109 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has as yet had any contact with the President of the Palestinian Authority, Mr. Mahamoud Abbas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7600/05]
I had hoped to meet President Abbas at the General Affairs and External Relations Council last month but, unfortunately, pressure of commitments in the region prevented him from taking up the Council's invitation to attend. I intend to visit the Middle East region in the near future. I hope to have an opportunity to meet President Abbas then.
We are, of course, in regular and ongoing contact with the Palestinian Authority through diplomatic channels. The Taoiseach telephoned President Mahmoud Abbas to congratulate him on his success in the elections. In the course of this call, he assured President Abbas of Ireland's continuing support for efforts to bring an end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. I have also written to my own counterpart, the newly appointed Palestinian Foreign Minister, Nasser Al-Kidwa, congratulating him on his appointment and looking forward to an early meeting.
The Government stands ready, in concert with our EU partners, to assist the parties to the conflict in their efforts to move forward on the basis of the road map. Ireland, through its membership of the European Union and its relations with Palestine, Israel, the United States, Arab and other key partners, will strongly support early action, led by the quartet, to advance the implementation of the road map.
110 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will introduce an honours system for Irish abroad who have reached excellence in their professions, as recommended by the task force on policy regarding emigrants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7601/05]
One of the recommendations of the task force on policy towards emigrants was that an awards scheme be established to recognise the service of Irish persons abroad. I am aware of the invaluable contribution which Irish people who have emigrated have made and continue to make to developments in their adopted countries. On every appropriate occasion, I express appreciation and pay a warm tribute to their work. However, the matter of an awards scheme to recognise the services of Irish persons abroad would arise in the context of wider discussions on a national honours system, which is the responsibility of the Department of the Taoiseach.
111 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Irish citizens who remain unaccounted for following the December 2004 tsunami in Asia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7620/05]
There are two confirmed Irish casualties. There are two other Irish citizens who, regrettably, are also believed to have lost their lives. My Department remains actively involved in efforts to locate their remains in Thailand.
113 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his travel plans for the coming six month period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7632/05]
Over the coming six months, I will attend a number of EU related meetings, including meetings of the General Affairs and External Relations Council, GAERC. Other overseas engagements are under consideration and decisions on these will be taken in due course. In addition, I will also travel to Boston and Washington for St. Patrick's Day events.
115 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government proposes to support the position taken by Senator Edward Kennedy, whereby the senator proposed that the 292 Montserratians to be expelled from the United States of America following the Department of Homeland Security’s decision to revoke the temporary protected status of these persons should be granted permanent residency status or at least that the decision to expel these persons be reversed; the support the Irish Government proposes to give these persons, in particular due to the linkages and unique connection between Ireland and Montserrat and the frequent visits to Ireland by, among others, Montserratian Ministers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7691/05]
I am aware that the Deputy has taken a strong interest in the history and Irish links of Montserrat and that he was concerned about the humanitarian situation of the islanders after the major volcanic eruption of 1997.
The Embassy of Ireland in Washington has advised me that Senator Kennedy, joined by Senators John Kerry and Charles Schumer, has written to President Bush to urge the US Administration to reverse the decision by the US Department of Homeland Security to terminate the temporary protected status granted to 292 refugees from Montserrat allowing them to reside in the US. This status was granted following the major volcanic eruption in 1997 which destroyed much of the island of Montserrat. Senator Schumer had also sponsored a Senate Bill to provide relief for the Montserrat group and a similar measure has been introduced in the House of Representatives.
The US Department of Homeland Security maintains that the conditions in Montserrat no longer meet the criteria for temporary protected status. It states that one of the criteria for this status, on the basis of natural disaster, is that both the disruption of living conditions and a country's inability to accept the return of its nationals be temporary in nature. The Department of Homeland Security refers to scientific estimates that there is a 50% chance that the volcanic activity in Montserrat will continue for another 14 to 15 years and may continue for decades. Its position is that the situation in Montserrat is, therefore, not temporary and that the temporary protected status of the 292 persons in question will end on 27 February 2005. The Department of Homeland Security points out that not all these persons will be subject to early removal from the US, as some will continue to benefit from other non-immigrant status. It also points out that people from Montserrat are eligible to apply for British citizenship based on their status as British overseas territory citizens.
While I appreciate the humanitarian impulse underlying the initiative taken in this case by Senator Kennedy and his colleagues, it would not be appropriate for me to intervene with the US authorities.
117 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the matter of Ireland’s contribution to overseas development aid was raised during his recent meeting with the Secretary General of the United Nations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7641/05]
My colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Dermot Ahern, had a meeting with the Secretary General in New York in February. The Minister assured the Secretary General of Ireland's support for the United Nations Organisation and for its development funds and programmes and underlined our continued commitment to work towards the millennium development goals. He briefed Secretary General Annan on his visit to the Indian Ocean region in the aftermath of the tsunami disaster and noted how important it was that the United Nations should be at the centre of the action there. The Secretary General welcomed Ireland's support.
Secretary General Annan has expressed his praise for Ireland's development co-operation programme on several occasions recently. When he visited Ireland last October, the Secretary General commended Ireland's longstanding commitment to development and our work to achieve the millennium development goals and to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. When I met the Secretary General in January at the international meeting of the small island developing states, he expressed appreciation of Ireland's response to the tsunami disaster.
118 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the situation in Uganda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7605/05]
Uganda's track record in poverty reduction and economic management over the last 18 years stands up favourably to comparison with much of Africa. The country has earned a good reputation in some areas such as press freedom. The decision to move to a multiparty system and the recent registration of some political parties offer the possibility of greater democratic change in future. However, concerns remain about some aspects of governance.
The insecurity in the northern region of Uganda has caused widespread disruption and loss of life. However, there are recent indications that it may be entering its final phase. While the government continues to pursue a military campaign against the LRA, it has also engaged with an intermediary in an effort first to secure a ceasefire and then an engagement on a negotiated peace. The process is being assisted by a number of donor countries, including Ireland.
A ceasefire was announced on 14 November 2004 by President Museveni and held until the end of last year. Subsequently, an 18 day ceasefire was implemented during February and the Ugandan Government renewed its amnesty legislation for six months. While this second temporary ceasefire has not been renewed, mediation efforts are continuing and there are still hopes a permanent ceasefire will be agreed soon. However, contacts with the LRA have become more difficult since the surrender on 16 February of Commander Sam Kolo, its chief negotiator.
The peace agreement signed on 6 January between the Government of Sudan, previously a supporter of the LRA, and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement, SPLM, provides a major incentive for the peace process in northern Uganda. It is assumed this will impact on the sustainability of the LRA insurgency and will encourage a reconsideration of its campaign. Also, President Museveni appears to perceive a need to pacify the region in order to create an additional support base for his National Resistance Movement, NRM, ahead of the 2006 elections. The current investigation by the International Criminal Court, ICC, into war crimes and crimes against humanity is putting pressure on both the government and the LRA. Civil society initiatives on reconciliation are helping to build momentum.
In the meantime, the humanitarian situation in northern Uganda remains fragile, although there are some indications that the current peace efforts are having a positive impact. The chairman and vice-chairman of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs visited northern Uganda in late September 2004.
On the political front, Uganda has commenced a process of transition from its current "no party" system to a multi-party system. On 22 September 2004, a White Paper was published on proposals for constitutional change which endorsed the move to multi-party democracy and the necessary changes in legislation required to enable political parties to operate. A referendum will be required to change the constitution and this is scheduled for 1 July. It is envisaged that this process will culminate in multi-party presidential and parliamentary elections in February/March 2006.
While the move to multi-party democracy is welcome, the draft legislation currently being considered by the parliament would repeal current provisions limiting a president to two five year terms, thus facilitating a third term for President Museveni. Repeal of the term limits provision will require a two thirds majority in parliament. While the President has not publicly said whether he will seek another term, concerns about this issue have been raised by the EU with the Ugandan Foreign Minister.
Respect for human rights is enshrined in the Ugandan Constitution and Uganda has good policies and strong institutions in support of human rights, in particular an active and respected Human Rights Commission. It also has a free press which plays a constructive role in highlighting abuses. At the same time, donors are concerned about incidents of torture and illegal detention by security forces in 2003 and have kept the government under pressure in this respect. In July 2004, the security agencies agreed to work together with the Uganda Human Rights Commission and the director of public prosecutions to fight torture. This is a positive development, although concrete results will have to be awaited.
Uganda has also been playing a more constructive role of late in the peace processes in both the DRC and Burundi. An agreement was concluded in Kampala on 26 October 2004 between the DRC, Rwanda and Uganda to establish a tripartite commission aimed at resolving outstanding political and security issues, including completing disarmament of armed groups in eastern DRC with former links to both Rwanda and Uganda. The Ugandan Government has participated constructively within the framework of the Great Lakes conference and has been following up on the findings of the Porter commission of inquiry into allegations of illegal exploitation of resources in the DRC and bringing to account persons implicated in such activities. However, while the director of public prosecutions has recently announced that he cannot proceed with prosecutions on criminal charges in some key cases due to lack of evidence, the Minister for Foreign Affairs has indicated that the Ministry of Defence will take disciplinary measures against individual army officers identified by the Porter commission.
120 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of submissions he has received in respect of the recent request for public submissions on the future direction of Ireland’s overseas aid programme; his plans for public meetings and a stakeholder conference on the issue; when the public consultation process will finish; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7694/05]
I welcome the Deputy's question and any other question that serves to heighten interest in, and awareness of, the Government's intention to produce the first ever White Paper on official development assistance, ODA. On 16 February last, I issued a press release announcing the Government's intention to seek submissions from interested parties on the future direction of Ireland's aid programme. This announcement was followed by the publication in the national press of advertisements inviting such submissions. The advertisements asked that submissions be forwarded by 30 April, that is, ten weeks after the initial announcement. I have also been writing to representatives of interested organisations reiterating my interest in learning their views.
My officials are currently monitoring the submissions already received at this early stage. I purposely allowed a period of ten weeks for sending in submissions to ensure that those who wish to do so have sufficient time to prepare considered and comprehensive submissions. I therefore would not wish to say anything now that might cause them to feel that they are under any constraint to respond before the announced deadline of 30 April. A number of organisations are still preparing papers and I am grateful for the time and effort they are putting into their presentations and look forward to studying them in due course.
I intend to hold a number of public meetings in different locations throughout the country to allow the public to engage directly in the debate on the future of ODA. The first public meeting will be held on 13 April in Limerick, the future home of Development Cooperation Ireland under the Government's programme of decentralisation. I intend to follow up with seven further meetings in other parts of the country running into early summer. My officials are at present finalising venues and dates. It is intended that the advisory board for Development Cooperation Ireland will convene a full stakeholder conference on the issue, probably in early September.
The public consultation process will be followed by a period of analysis and distillation of submissions received and of the views expressed at the public meetings. I expect during this period that there will be ongoing informal contacts with the stakeholders, leading to the drafting of the paper. I envisage that the White Paper will be submitted to Government for approval early in 2006.
121 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the recent visit of President Bush to the EU and his meeting with EU leaders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7644/05]
President Bush met with the EU Council, Commission and Troika on 22 February 2005. Among the topics discussed at the meeting with the Council were the Middle East peace process, Iraq, Iran, Russia, Ukraine, the Western Balkans and the UN summit scheduled for September 2005. During the meeting each EU head of state or government focused on a particular agenda item, with the Taoiseach, at the request of the Presidency, leading on Russia.
In his intervention, the Taoiseach focused on the common interest the EU and the US have in building and maintaining their own strategic partnerships with the Russian Federation, in accordance with the standards of democracy and human rights which both sides of the Atlantic hold in common. While the heads of state and government met with President Bush, I attended a meeting between EU Foreign Ministers and the US Secretary of State, Dr. Condoleezza Rice, which had a similar agenda. In my intervention I focused on the millennium development goals, insisting that they are eminently achievable, UN reform and on the need to address the situation in Darfur.
President Bush's meeting with the European Council took place in a relaxed and positive atmosphere and I believe that his visit to the EU, and particularly his support for European integration, has given renewed impetus to the transatlantic relationship. I welcome the strong emphasis which the President put on the current opportunity for progress in the Middle East peace process during his visit. I also welcome the fact that he said in his address at the Concert Noble in Brussels on 21 February 2005 that the US had found that a narrow definition of security is not enough and spoke about removing the causes of terror.
123 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, further to his reply of 2 February 2005, under the terms of the comprehensive agreement of December 2004, any party entitled to nominate Ministers to the Executive of the Northern Ireland Assembly would lose their automatic right to ministerial positions should they choose to abstain on the vote for the First and Deputy First Ministers, in view of the fact that the system has now been changed in order that the First and Deputy First Ministers are elected with the other Ministers in the Executive and not through two separate votes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7706/05]
As I said in my reply of 2 February 2005, the Good Friday Agreement provides that the First Minister and the Deputy First Minister should be jointly elected by a cross community vote in the Assembly. The revised arrangements, outlined in the comprehensive agreement published on 8 December last, would, in addition to the First and Deputy First Ministers, include the other Ministers being appointed to the Executive in that cross community vote. Taking forward these proposals will, when the context is appropriate, require amendment to the Northern Ireland Act 1998 in the British Parliament.
The relevant provision in the comprehensive agreement states: "No minister would be allowed to remain in the Executive if he or she had not voted in favour of the Executive Declaration, and if the nominating officer of his or her party did not nominate another MLA who had done so, d'Hondt would be re-run excluding that party." If a party wishes to participate in the Executive, it seems both logical and appropriate that it should support the entire ministerial slate, reflected in the Executive declaration. This is particularly the case given the experience in the previous Executive when one party took its allocated ministerial offices but did not engage collectively at Executive meetings.
124 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had recent contact with the Palestinian or Israeli Governments with regard to the renewed attempts to achieve a Middle East peace settlement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7636/05]
While I have not had the opportunity in recent weeks to meet my colleagues in the Israeli and Palestinian Governments, regular contact is maintained between our governments including through diplomatic channels. I intend to visit the Middle East region in the near future.
The Government both bilaterally and within the framework of the EU and UN is continuing its efforts to encourage progress in the Middle East peace process. At the General Affairs and External Relations Council on 22 February we welcomed recent positive developments, notably the outcome of the Sharm El Sheikh Summit and reaffirmed the EU's support for the continuing efforts by both sides to maintain the ceasefire and to give effect to the other commitments undertaken at the Sharm El Sheikh Summit. I also welcome the positive outcome of last week's London conference.
The Government stands ready in concert with our EU partners to assist the parties to the conflict in their efforts to move forward on the basis of the roadmap. Ireland through its membership of the European Union and its relations with Palestine, Israel, the United States, Arab and other key partners will strongly support early action led by the Quartet to advance the implementation of the roadmap.
125 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if officials of his or any other Department were involved in or had their attention brought to negotiations between the family of Robert McCartney, Sinn Féin representatives and IRA representatives prior to the release of the IRA statement on the murder of Robert McCartney on 25 February 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7704/05]
140 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the outcome of his meeting with the sisters of Robert McCartney in Dublin on 23 February 2005; the efforts the Government has been making to assist the investigation into his murder; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7703/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 125 and 140 together.
As the House is aware, I met with Robert McCartney's sisters and his partner two weeks ago. The family were very clear in their desire to have the killers and their accomplices charged and tried in court. Their public campaign has been necessitated by the fact that the police were being hindered in their investigation as a result of the threats and intimidation against witnesses. I assured the family that they had the full support of the Government in their campaign.
As regards the statements that had been made by Sinn Féin the McCartney family made it clear to me that it was one thing to issue statements and quite another to see results. They asked that the Government keep up the pressure on Sinn Féin and others who could influence those responsible, which we have done. I assured them that the issue would be kept on the Government's agenda as has been done in other cases, such as those of Rosemary Nelson, Robert Hamill and Patrick Finucane.
I also informed them that the case had been discussed at the meeting between the Taoiseach and Prime Minister Blair when they met in Brussels on 22 February. I can inform the House now that I also discussed the case with Secretary of State Murphy during the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference last week. I understand that this case and that of Pat Finucane was discussed by the Taoiseach and Prime Minister Blair when they met in London on 3 March last.
I was pleased to be able to participate in the debate last week regarding the McCartney murder and to offer the Government's full support for the motion.
Contacts with the family and other interested parties are ongoing. While my officials and I continue to monitor all developments regarding this case, neither I nor my officials were party to any discussions between the family, Sinn Féin and the IRA.
128 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the political situation in Ukraine following recent elections in that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7646/05]
Viktor Yushchenko was inaugurated as President of Ukraine on 23 January following the rerun of the second round of presidential elections. On 4 February Ms Yulia Tymoshenko was appointed as Prime Minister and a new Government took office. I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our warm congratulations to the President and Prime Minister of Ukraine as well as the Government and to wish them every success in the testing period ahead. I look forward to taking up at an early date an invitation from Foreign Minister Tarasyuk to make a visit to Ukraine.
The events surrounding the protracted election in Ukraine and the positive conduct of the final ballot clearly demonstrated the deep attachment of the Ukrainian people to democracy and fundamental freedoms. Through their actions to protect democracy and through the peaceful transition of power the people of Ukraine have shown the world that their European aspirations are firmly rooted in values that are shared by European states and citizens.
Undoubtedly many challenges lie ahead for Ukraine in consolidating democratic accountability and in pushing forward with political and economic reform. The new Government has an ambitious reform agenda which includes regulatory and investment reform as well as democratic reform and reform of the media. Complex issues relating to privatisation, competition and corruption need to be addressed and the Government in Kiev appears determined to deal with them. Naturally there are differing views within the country on the best way forward.
In recent weeks the President and Government of Ukraine have focused on communicating their priorities to both national and international audiences. President Yushchenko has said that maintaining national unity will be a key objective. His aim is to build a strong socially cohesive country which is based on market economy principles. The President has made clear that membership of the European Union and NATO is a strategic goal for Ukraine.
During an address to the Council of Europe Assembly on 25 January President Yushchenko promised to do all he could to make the democratic changes in Ukraine irreversible and to build a country in which human rights, democracy and the rule of law are protected. He also pledged to fight corruption and said that several high profile crimes including the murder of the journalist Heorhiy Gongadze in the year 2000 will be fully investigated. I understand that the President has now also pledged to investigate the reported suicide of Ukraine's former Interior Minister, Yuri Kravchenko, who died on Friday. Mr. Kravchenko was a key witness in the Gongadze case and was due to give evidence to prosecutors. Prior to his death a number of arrests had been made in connection with the murder of Mr. Gongadze.
Ireland believes that the European Union must continue to respond appropriately to Ukraine's ambitions for systemic political and economic reform. The approval in Brussels on 21 February of an EU-Ukraine action plan under the European neighbourhood policy was a significant step for both sides. Over the next three years the plan will help to foster greater economic integration and political cooperation between the EU and Ukraine. As long as Ukraine adheres to the path of political and economic reform it can count on practical support and assistance from the European Union in meeting these goals.
Ireland in common with other European Union member states looks forward to working with Ukraine in consolidating its transition based on democratic values, our shared belief in the rule of law and our common commitment to the universal applicability of human rights.
129 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on EU accession negotiations with Croatia; if he envisages any delay in Croatian accession to the Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7590/05]
The June 2004 European Council considered Croatia's application for membership of the EU on the basis of the Commission opinion presented in April 2004. The European Council agreed that Croatia meets the Copenhagen political criteria. It decided that Croatia is a candidate country for membership and that a bilateral intergovernmental conference should be convened early in 2005 in order to begin accession negotiations. The negotiations would be based on Croatia's own merits and the pace of progress would depend solely on the fulfilment of the requirements for membership. In taking this decision the European Council emphasised that Croatia needed to maintain full cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, ICTY, and to take all necessary steps to ensure that the one Croatian indictee still at large was located and transferred to The Hague for trial.
The December 2004 European Council confirmed the June decision and invited the Commission to present a proposal for a framework for negotiations with Croatia. It requested the Council to agree on the terms of the framework with a view to the opening of accession negotiations on 17 March 2005 provided that there is full cooperation with the Tribunal. The negotiating framework is at present under consideration by member states and I expect that it will be ready for approval by the next meeting of the General Affairs Council on 16 March. The Council will also have to decide on the issue of cooperation with the Tribunal. The General Affairs and External Relations Council which I attended in Brussels on 21 February agreed that full and unconditional cooperation with ICTY remains an essential requirement for continued progress towards the EU by all of the countries of the western Balkans. It also urged Croatia to take the necessary steps for full cooperation and reiterated that the last remaining indictee must be located and transferred to The Hague as soon as possible.
Croatia has made very substantial progress in the adoption and implementation of difficult reforms in recent years and has earned the status of candidate for membership of the Union. The opening of accession negotiations will be a very important moment in the history of Croatia. It should also be an encouragement to the other countries of the western Balkans to pursue their reforms. I hope that it will prove possible to begin accession negotiations as planned on 17 March.
131 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps and contributions which Ireland has taken towards helping in the task of reforming the United Nations; if he intends to bring the report dealing with this matter recently submitted to Mr. Kofi Annan before Dáil Éireann; if he would welcome a debate on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7718/05]
The Deputy is referring to the report of the High Level Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change, which was issued on 2 December 2004.
The high level panel was established in November 2003 by the United Nations Secretary General, Kofi Annan, to examine how best collective action can meet current and future threats to peace and security. Specifically the panel was tasked with analysing current and future challenges to international peace and security and assessing how best collective action can meet these challenges. It was asked to recommend changes necessary to ensure effective collective action including but not limited to a review of the principal organs of the United Nations.
A central priority of Ireland's Presidency of the European Union was to mobilise EU support for the multilateral system and the United Nations. Ireland drafted and coordinated the EU's contribution to the work of the panel and some key elements of the latter are in fact reflected in the panel's recommendations.
In publicly welcoming the report of the panel in December I said that it made a compelling case for the multilateral system as the best way for all states working together to confront threats and challenges to security and development in today's world.
From Ireland's perspective the report contains two critically important elements. First, it makes the case convincingly for a new and more comprehensive approach to security, making it clear that effective collective security demands that we address poverty, disease and underdevelopment as well as terrorism and weapons of mass destruction. This reflects the central premise of the EU's contribution to the work of the panel, that there can be no hierarchy of threats.
Second, the report makes a number of specific recommendations for the prevention of threats including terrorism, poverty, internal conflict and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction as well as on the institutional reform of the UN. Many of these are sound and constructive and worthy of support. A particular emphasis of the panel which I strongly endorse is the need for new institutional arrangements to ensure sustained and coordinated multilateral support for peace building in countries emerging from conflict and at risk of sliding back into conflict.
At the UN next September heads of states and governments will review the implementation of the millennium summit declaration and examine progress in achieving the millennium development goals. At the same time they will seek agreement on reforms including institutional reforms to improve the functioning and effectiveness of the UN system.
Later this month Secretary General Annan, having reflected on the panel's recommendations and the reaction to them and also on the recently issued report of the millennium project coordinated by Professor Jeffery Sachs will make some core proposals of his own to act as a basis for agreement on a balanced outcome at the September summit.
The task now ahead of us is to work with Secretary General Annan to prepare effectively for next September's summit and to ensure that it adopts a positive package of measures that will set us on course for the implementation of the millennium summit declaration and the achievement of the millennium development goals and that will enhance the effectiveness of and restore confidence in the system of collective security based on the UN Charter.
Secretary General Annan has on a number of occasions commended Ireland's steadfast work both nationally and within the European Union in support of the United Nations. Most recently when I met him in New York last month he warmly welcomed and accepted Ireland's offer to use its standing and profile in the United Nations to help build support for a positive outcome at September's summit that can attract broad support and equip the UN to meet the wide range of threats and challenges it faces today. During the coming months I intend to engage in a range of international contacts to help build support for such an outcome.
The report of the Secretary General's high level panel and Ireland's contribution to the process of UN reform have been the subject of a number of questions in this House and of discussion in the Seanad in recent years. I welcome this interest which reflects the broad support in both Houses for an effective multilateral system and the strong commitment of successive Governments to the United Nations. I am open to the suggestion of a debate on prospects for the September summit, which I would suggest should await the publication of the Secretary-General's proposals and will be pleased to respond to Deputies regarding progress between now and September.
132 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the situation in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7621/05]
147 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the levels of activity of the Taliban in Afghanistan and surrounding countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7619/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 132 and 147 together.
On 10 January 2005 Mr. Jean Arnault, the Special Representative of the Secretary General of the United Nations, UNSRSG, for Afghanistan reported to the UN Security Council. The Special Representative said that the security situation in Afghanistan had shown signs of improvement in recent weeks. He cautioned, however, that the international community should not become complacent and pointed out that such progress is predicated on a continuing high level of international military, political and economic assistance to Afghanistan.
Events in recent weeks demonstrate that the security situation remains volatile. On 20 January 2005 a suicide bomber carried out an assassination attempt on General Rashid Dostum, the Uzbek leader who was a candidate in last year's presidential election and was recently appointed chief of staff to the commander of the armed forces. The Taliban are reported to have claimed responsibility for the attack. Taliban rebels are also reported to have killed nine Afghan soldiers in an ambush in the southern Helmand province on 24 February 2005.
Such attacks indicate that Taliban militia members are still active in Afghanistan and most probably the surrounding countries. The Afghan authorities supported by the international security forces and with the cooperation of the Pakistani Government remain committed to tackling the insurgency movement. President Karzai has declared his commitment to a national reconciliation process which would see the reintegration into society of Taliban officials who are not included on lists of wanted militants. Recent media reports indicate that the Afghan Government has held talks with Taliban members in this regard. However, these reports have been challenged by Taliban hardliners who are reported to have vowed to continue their struggle.
These events point to the need for the international community to remain focused on supporting Afghanistan. The decision of the UN Security Council on 17 September 2004 to extend the mandate of the NATO led International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, ISAF, for a further 12 month period beyond 13 October 2004 was an important development in this regard. The decision taken by NATO earlier this month to expand the ISAF presence to include western Afghanistan is also to be welcomed.
In order to ensure a secure environment in Afghanistan it is important that all irregular forces are disarmed and demobilised or integrated into the national army. The disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration process, DDR, has gained momentum in recent weeks and almost 40,000 militiamen have now been disarmed. If this momentum is maintained it is hoped that the disarmament and demobilisation of the Afghan militia forces or at least those who are ready to voluntarily disarm will be completed by June 2005, which is within the timeframe established by the Berlin conference last year. Reintegration activities for demobilised militia would then be expected to continue to 2006. I welcome progress made to date and strongly urge all concerned to make a full commitment to the completion of the DDR process.
The publication of a report on transitional justice by the Afghan independent human rights commission, AIHRC, on 29 January 2005 is a further positive development in Afghanistan. I welcome this report and encourage the Afghan authorities to develop a strategy in keeping with the wishes of the Afghan people as set out in the report to address issues of transitional justice.
Looking ahead, the coming year will be an important one for Afghanistan. The parliamentary and provincial elections due to take place later this year represent the final step in the implementation of the Bonn Agreement of December 2001 on arrangements for the re-establishment of permanent government institutions in Afghanistan. The independent electoral commission, IEC, appointed by President Karzai on 19 January 2005 is expected to decide on the date of the elections shortly. These elections will undoubtedly present a considerable political and logistical challenge. It is important that the international community remain engaged in this process.
The House will be aware of the grave problems that flow from the resurgence of poppy cultivation in Afghanistan. The opium economy is equivalent to 60% of Afghanistan's GDP and accounts for 56% of cultivated land. Afghanistan is now the largest drug cultivating country in the world. President Karzai has identified counter narcotics as a priority for the Afghan Government and has introduced a number of important initiatives in this regard. These include a national counter narcotics implementation plan, the appointment of a Minister for counter narcotics, the creation of a cabinet sub-committee on counter narcotics and the establishment of a counter narcotics trust fund which will be jointly administered by the Afghan Ministry of Finance and the UN Development Programme, UNDP.
The Government together with our EU partners fully supports the Afghan authorities' uncompromising stance on the illicit cultivation of and trafficking in drugs. Over the past three years Ireland has contributed €500,000 per annum to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC, €300,000 per annum of which has been channelled into counter narcotics projects in the region. Consideration is being given to a substantial increase in our support for the programmes being carried out by UNODC, including in Afghanistan, in 2005.
Afghanistan will continue to face many serious challenges in the period ahead and will therefore continue to need extensive support from the international community. Ireland together with our partners in the European Union are determined to continue to play our part in this process.
136 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on such undertakings as the United Nations has made recently in relation to bonded labour in general, and child slavery in particular; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7736/05]
The Government is committed to the active promotion of full observance of universal human rights standards and seeks the elimination of all forms of contemporary slavery including bonded labour. Through our participation in international fora such as the UN General Assembly, the UN Commission on Human Rights, the Council of Europe and the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe, OSCE, we raise our concerns in regard to this issue together with like minded countries. During the last session of the UN Commission on Human Rights and at the initiative of the Irish Presidency the EU for the first time delivered a strong statement on contemporary forms of slavery in which the EU reaffirmed its strong commitment to work for the elimination of all forms of this practice.
One of the most egregious forms of modern slavery is the forced recruitment and use of children as soldiers in armed conflict. Unfortunately the practice remains widespread. Ireland has urged states to speed up the process of ratification of the Rome statute of the International Criminal Court, ICC, which includes as a war crime conscription or enlisting children under the age of fifteen years or using them to participate actively in hostilities in both international and non-international armed conflicts.
Ireland has consistently supported the International Labour Organisation, ILO, in its efforts to promote core labour standards. In June 1998 Ireland supported the adoption by the International Labour Conference of a declaration on fundamental principles and rights at work. This commits the International Labour Organisation's 175 member states worldwide to respect the principles inherent in the core labour standards and to promote their universal application. Ireland has ratified all of the seven core labour standards.
This declaration emphasises that all member states of the International Labour Organisation have an obligation arising from the very fact of membership of the organisation to respect, to promote, and to realise in good faith and in accordance with the constitution of the International Labour Organisation the principles concerning the fundamental rights which are subject to those conventions. These principles include the elimination of all forced or compulsory labour and the effective abolition of child labour.
In June 1999 the International Labour Conference adopted Convention 182 concerning the prohibition and immediate action for the elimination of the worst forms of child labour. Ireland ratified the convention on 20 December 1999 and was the first European Union country to do so. The convention has now received near universal ratification.
The Government's strong support for the International Labour Organisation in its efforts to address bonded labour and child slavery includes the provision of funding. The Government supports the ILO special action programme to combat forced labour, SAP-FL. This programme focuses on awareness raising activities and studies on bonded and forced labour. The programme also facilitates and funds projects to address forced labour and human trafficking in Europe, Asia and Latin America. Government funding to this programme has amounted to €1.2 million to date. Further funding will be delivered as the programme progresses.
UNICEF, the UN children's fund, is one of Ireland's most important UN partner agencies. UNICEF has a strong track record of working with governments to bring the issue of child labour into policy agendas and to craft legislation and other measures that will free children from the burden of labour. This year we will contribute €9.2 million to the core resources of the fund.
137 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the tensions between communities in Kosovo, evident in 2004, are now under control once again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7612/05]
The outbreak of ethnically motivated violence in March 2004 was a serious setback to the work of building a multiethnic society in Kosovo. In a series of attacks across Kosovo on 17 March, 19 people were killed and widespread damage was caused to homes and other property, most of which were owned by members of the Kosovo Serb community. The security situation is now calm but it remains tense. Work is continuing on the reconstruction of destroyed property. It is essential that the authorities in Kosovo ensure that this work is completed without delay. I would like to pay tribute to the work of KFOR, the UN-mandated peacekeeping force in Kosovo and especially to the contribution of the 213 Irish troops serving with the force in ensuring security and stability in often difficult circumstances.
It is reported today that the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Mr. Ramush Haradinaj, has been indicted by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. He agreed to questioning late last year by investigators from the tribunal on allegations relating to deaths in Kosovo in 1998 and 1999. He has indicated that if he is indicted he will resign and travel to The Hague to face the charges against him at the Tribunal. I hope that Mr. Haradinaj will meet his responsibilities and will act in the days ahead in the interests of all the people of Kosovo.
Kosovo has been under UN administration since the end of the conflict in June 1999 in accordance with Security Council Resolution 1244. The EU fully supports the work of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General in Kosovo, Mr. Soren Jessen-Petersen, who heads the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo, UNMIK. He is working closely with the provisional institutions of self government to encourage the implementation of a wide ranging reform process based on European standards in advance of any consideration of the constitutional status of Kosovo. The Government in Kosovo which was appointed in December has been making some encouraging and tangible progress in their commitment to the implementation of the standards. The EU supports the priority which UNMIK has established for early progress on those reforms which most directly affect the security and rights of minority communities and the creation of a truly democratic and multiethnic society in Kosovo.
This will be a crucial year for Kosovo. During the summer the UN will preside over a comprehensive review of the implementation of reforms based on European standards. If the review is positive it will be followed by the opening of a process to agree the constitutional status of Kosovo which will be facilitated by the international community. The EU will play an important role in this process in order to ensure that the agreed outcome is fully compatible with the process of European integration. In these circumstances it is essential that direct dialogue resumes between Belgrade and Pristina and that the Kosovo Serb community now have the confidence to reengage in the political process, and take their place in the provisional institutions of self government.
The EU has given a clear commitment that the long term future of the western Balkans region including Kosovo rests within the European Union. The meeting of the external relations council which I attended in Brussels on 21 February confirmed that Kosovo will not return to the situation which existed before 1999 and reaffirmed the Union's commitment to a multiethnic and democratic Kosovo which contributes to the stability of the region and which adheres to the values and standards of the EU. In the period ahead the EU will continue to work in cooperation with the United Nations, with the Governments of the region and with the US and other international partners towards the achievement of this objective.
138 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the assistance that is given by his Department to the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7645/05]
In addition to meeting Ireland's obligatory assessed contributions to the organisation my Department assists the OSCE in a number of ways by contributing financially to programmes in its various fields of activity, notably democratisation and rule of law.
My Department also nominates Defence Forces personnel who have been identified for deployment by our Defence authorities to the OSCE for its various field activities. At present there is one Irish officer serving in each of the OSCE field operations in Albania and in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Three others serve with the border monitoring operation in Georgia, two in the OSCE mission in Serbia and Montenegro and one is assigned to the high level planning group based in Vienna. In addition my Department nominates civilians for service as secondees to OSCE field operations. Currently OSCE has a total of 18 field operations. My Department contributes to selected OSCE election observer missions both by making a financial contribution to the cost of missions and by sending Irish personnel to observe the elections.
The total in non-obligatory financial assistance given to OSCE in 2004 was €243,161.
143 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government’s views on the approach of Russia to the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7642/05]
As the Taoiseach underlined at the EU-US Summit on 22 February, Russia is an important and strategic partner of the European Union. This partnership is moving forward rapidly in the economic area. However, there are difficulties in the relationship at this time and these include the question of Russia's attitude to the OSCE.
The Government is concerned that the attitude of the Russian Federation to the OSCE is less positive today than it was during the decade which immediately followed the break up of the former Soviet Union. This is having a negative effect on the ability of the organisation to advance its objectives. We see, for example, an organisation which is at risk of paralysis because consensus is lacking on budgetary and financial issues and whose annual ministerial meeting in each of the last two years has failed to agree a declaration to which all 55 participating states could subscribe. Russia's refusal to renew the mandate of the OSCE border monitoring operation in Georgia at the end of last year and its limited cooperation in resolving the so called frozen conflicts in the OSCE region are also worrying. A particular concern for Ireland and for like minded participating states is Russia's systematic attempt to curtail the activities of the OSCE's Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, ODIHR.
As I understand it, this less positive attitude reflects a number of factors: the Russian perception that there is an imbalance at this point between the three dimensions of OSCE activities, political-military, economic and human, with disproportionate attention being given to the human dimension; its belief that Russia is paying an unfair share of the costs of the organisation; and crucially, an underlying feeling that the values promoted by the OSCE are somehow the values of the states west of Vienna and not the universal values which all 55 participating states are committed to uphold. The last mentioned factor challenges the OSCE in a fundamental way. It suggests, I regret to say, that instead of a convergence of values a gap is developing between Russia and the West in the area of democratic standards and human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Ireland and the European Union do not exclude looking again at the balance between the three dimensions of the activities of OSCE although we would ask why there is a need to focus on political and military issues in the post-Cold War Europe. What we cannot accept is any diminution or dilution of the standards which OSCE has already defined, with respect to conditions for free and fair elections for example. We strongly favour continued engagement with Russia in OSCE and outside it. The participating states of the OSCE have come a long way from the time when the CSCE was as much a forum for confrontation as for cooperation. A review of its recent history shows that the OSCE made significant progress when all participating states including Russia worked together. It would be a great pity if the OSCE, whose composition gives it a unique role in helping to prevent, contain and resolve conflict in Europe became unable to pursue these objectives effectively.
144 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his Department’s advice to Irish persons intending to travel to Tel Aviv for the upcoming World Cup qualifier against Israel in view of the recent bombing in the city; if he is advising the public that it is safe to travel to Tel Aviv; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7699/05]
My Department has issued detailed travel advice for the benefit of those intending to travel to Tel Aviv for the forthcoming World Cup qualifier against Israel. This advice can be viewed on the Department's website www.dfa.ie.
The Department is not advising against Irish citizens travelling to attend this fixture. However, it is stressing the need for extra vigilance on the part of travellers when using public transport and when in crowded public areas. In addition it continues to advise against travel to the West Bank and the Gaza Strip as well as to Israel's northern border with Lebanon.
This advice takes account of the current security situation including the 25 February bomb attack in Tel Aviv. The Department is monitoring this situation closely and is in regular contact with the Israeli authorities.
As has been the case for equivalent sporting events in the past, Irish Embassy staff will be available to help Irish citizens in every way possible should they need any assistance during their stay.
145 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which human rights abuses were discussed during the recent trip of a Government delegation to China; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that those involved in human rights advocacy in China may face serious human rights violations; the Government’s position on this matter of such abuses committed by a potential trading partner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7715/05]
As stated previously and on many occasions, the Government continues to take concerns about human rights in China very seriously. We have an ongoing dialogue with the Chinese authorities at both the national and the European Union level. Human rights issues are on the agenda of all bilateral meetings with senior Chinese leaders.
While recognising that respect for human rights in China is not at the level we would wish and that human rights abuses continue to occur, the situation is improving, albeit slowly. A number of important steps have been taken recently. New clauses have been inserted into the Chinese constitution on human rights and the inviolability of private property. In 2001 China ratified the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and in 2003 in line with reporting requirements under the Covenant it submitted its first report to the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The report is due to be considered by the committee in April of this year.
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 within a broad dialogue on matters of mutual concern, is shared by other European and North American governments and is the approach most likely to yield tangible long term progress on human rights.
During his recent visit to China from 17 to 22 January 2005 the Taoiseach and the Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao discussed a wide range of issues including the issue of human rights. The Taoiseach, while recognising the different historical perspective of Ireland and China in regard to the promotion and protection of human rights, stressed the importance that the Government attaches to China's continued progress in this area. The possibility of developing bilateral cooperation on furthering human rights norms was raised with the Chinese side.
The Taoiseach also had an interesting exchange with the Chairman of the National People's Congress, Mr. Wu Bangguo, on the Chinese government's efforts to promote human rights and the rule of law. Chairman Wu looked forward to Irish and Chinese parliamentarians continuing this dialogue at various meetings scheduled to take place during the course of this year.
Discussions on human rights issues also took place at official level during the course of the Taoiseach's visit.
Together with our EU partners the Government will continue to encourage the Chinese authorities to respect fully the human rights of all citizens. For my part I will continue to avail of my discussions with Chinese representatives to express our position in regard to these matters.
146 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of international constitutions to which Ireland is a signatory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7602/05]
As the Deputy will no doubt be aware, the treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe was signed by Ireland in Rome on 29 October 2004.
In addition a number of international organisations and bodies of which Ireland is a member are governed by instruments which are described in their titles as being constitutions including the Constitution of the International Labour Organisation, the Constitution of the World Health Organisation, the Constitution of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, the Constitution of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, the Constitution of the United Nations International Development Organisation, the Constitution of the International Organization for Migration, the Constitution of the Universal Postal Union and the Constitution of the International Telecommunication Union and the Constitution of the European Commission for the Control of Foot and Mouth Disease.
All the listed constitutions are international agreements within the meaning of international treaty law. As such they fall to be addressed under Article 29.5 of Bunreacht na hÉireann.
148 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if Ireland will join a European Union common defence and security arrangement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7629/05]
Ireland's position is absolutely clear. The amendment to Bunreacht na hÉireann approved by the people in October 2002 at the initiation of the Government precludes Ireland from participating in a common defence. It is the Government's intention that this prohibition be carried over in the context of the ratification of the European Constitution.
I am not aware of any proposals under consideration by the EU member states to establish an EU common defence. Were such a proposal to be tabled in the future it would have to be decided by the European Council acting unanimously and adopted by the member states in accordance with their constitutional requirements. In order for Ireland to participate in a common defence the people would first have to approve the amendment of Bunreacht na hÉireann.
I had a number of in depth discussions with senior members of the United Nations Secretariat including the recently appointed Chief of Staff of the UN Secretary General, Mark Malloch Brown. This meeting provided an opportunity for a detailed discussion of the practical and policy issues involved in the preparations for the September summit. We also reviewed the impact of the interim report of the independent inquiry committee into the management of the UN's Oil for Food Programme and the need for urgent remedial action in response to the report. We also reviewed general management issues in the UN system.
The meetings confirmed my view that the September summit represents a critical opportunity to enhance the legitimacy and effectiveness of the multilateral system with the UN at its core. It is incumbent on Ireland and all members of the United Nations to do what they can to ensure that this opportunity is not wasted.
149 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on Ireland’s current and possible future involvement in United Nations peacekeeping missions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7716/05]
The Deputy will be aware that members of the Permanent Defence Force are currently serving overseas in eight UN missions in Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, Western Sahara, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Cyprus, Lebanon, Kosovo and the Middle East as well as in multi-national forces authorized by the Security Council in Kosovo, KFOR, Bosnia and Herzegovina, SFOR, Afghanistan, ISAF and with the African Union Mission in Sudan, AMIS.
Deployment to other missions is not currently under active consideration. Any future proposals for overseas deployment by the Permanent Defence Force including those carried out under the European Security and Defence Policy, ESDP, will remain subject to a Government decision and will continue to require UN authorisation for the mission in question. In addition a resolution by Dáil Éireann is required where the proposed number for deployment of Irish personnel exceeds twelve. These conditions are set out in the defence Acts and were reflected in the national declaration made by Ireland at the Seville European Council in June 2002 in advance of the referendum on the Nice treaty held in October of that year.
Assessment of any such proposal would also need to take into account the numbers of Permanent Defence Force personnel available for overseas service at that time.
150 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had discussions with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform on the future responsibilities of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7630/05]
The establishment of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service and the transfer to it of the visa section of the Department of Foreign Affairs has been the subject of intensive consultation between my Department and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform in recent months. Further consultations will take place on the detailed arrangements for the assignment of staff and other resources to the new service.
I fully support the establishment of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service as a one stop shop in all matters relating to entry into and taking up residence within Ireland including visa matters and firmly believe the new arrangements will result in a more coherent and efficient delivery of services in this area.
The Department of Foreign Affairs will continue to have responsibility for the provision of a visa service at its embassies and consulates abroad. We intend to cooperate closely with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service with a view to further improving the quality and delivery of the visa service offered at our missions abroad.
153 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs if he will report on the level of trade between developing countries and Ireland; the steps his Department is taking to improve trade with developing countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7610/05]
Trade with developing countries represented 4.97%, €4.16 billion, of Ireland's exports and 10.83%, €5.42 billion, of our imports in 2004 compared with 5.01% for exports and 10.16% for imports in 2003. Trade with least developed countries accounted for 0.24%, €199.1 million, of Irish exports and 0.28%, €139.4 million, of imports in 2004 whereas the figures for 2003 were 0.15% and 0.25% for exports and imports respectively.
Ireland recognises the constraints that face developing countries and in particular least developed countries in their efforts to increase their share of world trade. Trade is an important and effective lever for development and hence the alleviation of poverty. Archbishop Diarmuid Martin has recently highlighted the importance of trade to developing countries. In common with other European Union member states Ireland has placed a very clear emphasis on the need to assist developing countries and particularly least developed countries to integrate 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 least-developed countries, will be deeper and fairer if anchored in the World Trade Organisation multilateral trading system.
In the context of the delivery of the development dimension of the latest round of World Trade Organisation negotiations known as the Doha development agenda, DDA, Ireland is committed to working hard to secure genuinely pro-development outcomes in all areas of the DDA work programme.
The European Union is giving priority in the Doha round negotiations to the achievement of real benefits for developing countries. Discussion is taking place across the full range of issues including market access, special and differential treatment, trade related assistance and capacity building targeted at those most in need. Developing countries by increasing their trade capacity can enhance export earnings, promote industrialisation and encourage the diversification of their economies.
An important practical element of Ireland's support for the integration of developing countries into the world economy is trade related capacity building. Ireland recognises that the lack of adequate institutional and human capacity to deal with the complexity of the multilateral trading system is a key issue for sustainable development. We are assisting the developing countries through a number of mechanisms, for example the World Trade Organisation Law Advisory Centre, the Agency for International Trade Information and Cooperation, the International Trade Centre etc..
Whilst 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 in helping developing countries achieve these objectives is the provision of non-reciprocal tariff preferences under the EU's generalised system of preferences, GSP, which is currently being renegotiated. In 2001 the EU also introduced an initiative known as the everything but arms initiative which provides for duty and quota free access to the EU market for essentially all products from least developed countries. Furthermore, with a view to fostering the smooth and gradual integration of African, Caribbean and Pacific, ACP, states into the world economy the EU is negotiating economic partnership agreements, EPAs, with six regional groupings of ACP states. The EPAs are first and foremost instruments for development that will promote sustainable development and contribute to poverty eradication in ACP countries.
154 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his travel plans for the period around St. Patrick’s Day 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7631/05]
I am currently scheduled to represent the Government at St. Patrick's Day events in Boston before accompanying the Taoiseach to Washington. I very much welcome the opportunity to promote Ireland in the city during the St. Patrick's Day period.
While arrangements are not yet fully finalised, the programme in addition to meetings with Irish immigration groups currently includes promotional events hosted by the Ireland-US Chamber of Commerce, the Consul General and State agencies, the Irish cultural centre and the Irish American partnership group. I also look forward to addressing the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government and European Studies Center and to updating key contacts on recent developments including Northern Ireland.
155 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his preferred options in regard to European defence and security in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7688/05]
Since the entry into force of the Amsterdam treaty in May 1999 the EU has worked to make a constructive reality of the treaty's provisions on the Petersberg Tasks through the development of the European security and defence policy (ESDP). The challenge of ensuring that the EU makes an effective contribution for a stable Europe and a more secure and just world is a significant one and ESDP has an important role to play in this area. At its core ESDP is concerned with ensuring that the EU has the necessary civilian and military capabilities for crisis management.
In this context Ireland has sought to play a positive and constructive role in the evolution of ESDP. It is an inclusive project and it has been conceived and elaborated with the engagement of all EU member states including Ireland. We have and will continue to participate actively in its ongoing development.
Since 2003 the EU has deployed a total of seven crisis management missions, both military and civilian. Two further civilian missions are currently in the planning stage. Ongoing missions include EUFOR in Bosnia-Herzegovina, a 7,000 strong military crisis management mission to which Ireland is contributing more than 50 personnel from the Defence Forces and the EU Police Mission in Bosnia-Herzegovina headed by an assistant commissioner from the Garda Síochána. The continuing development of the capabilities of the EU in order to carry out these types of missions is a priority for the Union.
From a national perspective we have stressed the need for a balanced development of civilian and military aspects of ESDP. In this context Ireland has supported recent work to further enhance the EU's civilian capabilities. These include the development of rapidly deployable civilian response teams as well as enhancing the Union's civil protection capacity to respond to major humanitarian disasters, such as the recent tsunami in South East Asia.
I welcome the expansion of the Petersberg Tasks foreseen in the European Constitution in particular in relation to conflict prevention and post-conflict rehabilitation tasks. The broadened scope of the Petersberg Tasks provide for the continued engagement of the EU in the full spectrum of conflict prevention, crisis management and post-conflict reconstruction into the future.
156 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of EU states in which Ireland has an embassy; his plans to open embassies in the EU and throughout the world; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7639/05]
258 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Irish embassies abroad; his proposals to increase this number; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7998/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 156 and 258 together.
At present there are 64 resident Irish missions abroad: 49 embassies, 12 consulates general and other offices and 6 multilateral missions. Details of these missions follow for the Deputies' information.
Ireland currently has embassies located in 21 EU member states, namely: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.
In order to complete our network of resident missions in all of the EU member states and in the countries which will accede in 2007 the Government in December 2004 approved the opening of resident missions in Malta, Latvia and Lithuania and in Bulgaria and Romania.
In addition, following the Government's decision to designate Vietnam as a programme country for development cooperation, we plan to open a resident mission in that country.
On the assumption that all logistical issues can be resolved for these locations it is expected these new missions will be opened in the second half of this year.
The opening of new Irish 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.
Location of Irish Embassies, Permanent Missions, Consulates General and other offices
Location of Irish Embassies
Argentina
Australia
Austria
Belgium
Brazil
Canada
China
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Egypt
Ethiopia
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Holy See
Hungary
India
Iran
Israel
Italy
Japan
Korea, Republic of
Luxembourg
Malaysia
Mexico
Mozambique
Netherlands
Nigeria
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
South Africa
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Tanzania
Turkey
Uganda
United Kingdom
U.S.A.
Zambia
Permanent Missions
Council of Europe — Strasbourg
European Union — Brussels
OSCE — Vienna
United Nations — New York
United Nations — Geneva
OECD and UNESCO — Paris
Consulates-General and other offices
Sydney, Australia
Shanghai, China
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Cardiff, United Kingdom
New York, United States of America
Boston, United States of America
Chicago, United States of America
San Francisco, United States of America
Partnership for Peace — Brussels Liaison Office
Irish Aid Office — East Timor
Ramallah — West Bank Representative Office
Lesotho
157 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his recent meeting with UN Secretary General in New York; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7635/05]
The main purpose of my meeting with the Secretary General and his officials in New York on 8 February was to review prospects and preparations for next September's summit meeting at the United Nations and to explore with the Secretary General how Ireland might best contribute to a successful outcome.
At the summit Heads of State and Government will review the implementation of the millennium summit declaration and examine progress in achieving the millennium development goals. At the same time they will seek agreement on reforms, including institutional reforms, to improve the functioning and effectiveness of the UN system. The Secretary General will later this month make some core proposals to act as a basis for agreement on a balanced outcome in September that would equip the UN to meet the wide range of threats and challenges it faces today and enhance momentum towards the achievement of the millennium development goals.
At our meeting the Secretary General, as he has on a number of occasions, commended Ireland's steadfast work both nationally and within the European Union to support the United Nations, including in the area of peacekeeping. He was particularly appreciative of our continued readiness to participate in peacekeeping in Africa. He warmly welcomed and accepted my offer that he avail of Ireland's standing and profile in the United Nations to help build support for a positive outcome at September's summit. During the coming months I intend to engage in a range of international contacts to help build support for such an outcome and will remain in close contact with the Secretary General in this process.
We also discussed a number of pressing international issues of peace and security including the Middle East and Sudan. I reiterated to the Secretary General Ireland's strong support for the referral of alleged human rights abuses in Darfur to the International Criminal Court.
I took the opportunity to brief the Secretary General on Ireland's response to the devastation caused by the tsunami and on impressions gained during my visit to the affected region as well as on the steps taken by the Government to ensure that the very substantial sums of money raised by the Irish people and those provided by the Government are spent in an effective manner and are of direct benefit to those most in need of support. We also discussed the need for a civilian rapid response capacity to deal with such major humanitarian crises.
I also met the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations, Louise Fréchette, and the President of the General Assembly, Jean Ping, and had very interesting and useful exchanges with both.
I had a number of in depth discussions with senior members of the United Nations Secretariat including the recently appointed Chief of Staff of the UN Secretary General, Mark Malloch Brown. This meeting provided an opportunity for a detailed discussion of the practical and policy issues involved in the preparations for the September summit. We also reviewed the impact of the interim report of the independent inquiry committee into the management of the UN's Oil for Food Programme and the need for urgent remedial action in response to the report. We also reviewed general management issues in the UN system.
The meetings confirmed my view that the September summit represents a critical opportunity to enhance the legitimacy and effectiveness of the multilateral system with the UN at its core. It is incumbent on Ireland and all members of the United Nations to do what they can to ensure that this opportunity is not wasted.
158 Mr. English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the ongoing discussions at EU level with regard to the implementation of the Lisbon Strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7616/05]
Implementation of the Lisbon Strategy is a priority for the Government. The strategy covers a wide range of areas under the headings of competitiveness and employment, social policy and the environment which fall within the responsibility of individual Departments. The Department of the Taoiseach has overall responsibility for coordinating Ireland's approach.
The Spring European Council on 22 to 23 March 2005 will focus on the mid-term review of the Lisbon Strategy. Both the high level group under the chairmanship of former Netherlands Prime Minister Wim Kok which was established at the initiative of the Irish Presidency to review the Lisbon Strategy and the European Commission in its recent report to the Spring European Council have advocated a greater focus on growth, employment and competitiveness to achieve key Lisbon objectives. The Commission recommends action to complete the internal market, prioritise innovation and research and development and make progress on better regulation. These are all areas that we have prioritised at national level. The Commission's report recognises the need to improve implementation of Lisbon at national level and has in this regard proposed that each member state should draw up a national action programme to achieve more coordinated delivery of Lisbon reforms.
Like other member states, Ireland is in the process of examining the Commission's proposals in detail. We are generally supportive of the Commission's approach which builds on the work of previous Presidencies including our own and highlights the need for action now. We are open to the proposal for national action programmes but are of the view that the format should be flexible so that member states can shape them to suit their national needs.
We see the mid-term review as an opportunity to provide the impetus for concentrating on delivering more growth and jobs which in turn will help to advance the environmental and social pillars of the Lisbon Strategy. The work consequent on the Commission's recent communications on the review of the Sustainable Development Strategy and on a new social policy agenda will also provide opportunities for advancing the social and environmental dimensions of Lisbon.
The various sectoral Councils including ECOFIN, the Competitiveness Council, the Environment Council and the Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council will be providing their inputs to the discussion at the Spring European Council in the period immediately ahead. The General Affairs and External Relations Council on 16 to 17 March 2005 will finalise the preparation of the draft European Council conclusions on the mid-term review.
159 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the international treaty governing nuclear threat and proliferation did not envisage a reduction in nuclear weapons by the existing nuclear powers; his further views on whether the construction of such treaties in the narrower sense of dealing only with new countries seeking nuclear capacity is a serious distortion of such a treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7735/05]
I assume the Deputy is referring to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, NPT, which entered into force in 1970. The NPT has three pillars; disarmament, non-proliferation and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
Ireland has a particularly close association with the NPT, which is the most universal of all of the multilateral instruments in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation. In 1958 one of my predecessors, Frank Aiken, put forward a proposal for such a treaty at the United Nations and the discussions and negotiations in subsequent sessions of the General Assembly led in 1961 to agreement on the concept which was enshrined in Resolution 1661, a document which has become known as the Irish resolution. When the treaty itself had been negotiated and was opened for signature Ireland was privileged to have been the first country to have signed and ratified the NPT. Since then, efforts to strengthen the treaty and to ensure respect for all its provisions have been our highest priority in the area of disarmament and non-proliferation.
According to Article VI of the treaty each of the parties including the five nuclear weapon states parties, China, France, Russian Federation, UK and US, undertakes to pursue negotiations in good faith on effective measures leading to nuclear disarmament. The central bargain of the treaty, that the non-nuclear weapons states would not develop such weapons in return for which the nuclear powers would reduce and eventually eliminate their nuclear weapons, was further refined in 1995 and 2000. In 1995 the non-nuclear weapon states agreed to the indefinite extension of the non-proliferation treaty provided that the nuclear powers pursued nuclear disarmament. In 2000 the nuclear powers made an unequivocal undertaking to eliminate their nuclear arsenals and all parties adopted a practical plan for the pursuit of nuclear disarmament.
The progress which can be achieved by the NPT States parties if there is sufficient political will was evident in the conclusions of the final document of the 2000 review conference which provided a realistic blueprint for achieving nuclear disarmament. The thirteen practical steps for the systematic and progressive efforts to implement Article VI, which included the unequivocal undertaking by the nuclear weapons states, were agreed by consensus.
Ireland, as a member of the new agenda coalition, NAC, was actively involved in the negotiations on the final document of the 2000 review conference of the NPT. Since that time the NAC has strongly advocated the implementation of these steps by all parties to the NPT, particularly the five nuclear weapons states. We remain determined to pursue the full and effective implementation of the substantial agreement reached at the 2000 NPT review conference.
Ireland continues to believe the only guarantee against the use or threat of use of weapons of mass destruction including nuclear weapons is their complete elimination and the assurance that they will never be used or produced again. There is a tendency in some quarters to stress its non-proliferation aspects to the neglect of the disarmament provisions of the NPT. We believe, however, that both aspects are important and are firmly convinced that disarmament and non-proliferation are mutually reinforcing processes. However, we do not believe that lack of progress in disarmament justifies any moves towards proliferation.
As the cornerstone of the nuclear non-proliferation regime and the essential foundation for the pursuit of nuclear disarmament, it is vital that the integrity of the treaty is upheld. This in our view means respecting all of the treaty's provisions and the commitments freely undertaken at review conferences.
The next NPT review conference, which is to take place in May this year in New York, will be a pivotal event in the area of disarmament and non-proliferation. Ireland will work within the European Union, the NAC and with other key partners ahead of and during the NPT review conference in seeking agreement on a solid basis for a successful outcome.
161 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the development of the African Union; his views on such assistance as may be appropriate from the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7729/05]
The African Union represents an important strategic partner for the European Union and one with whom ever closer relations are being forged in the interests of promoting peace, security, democracy and development on the African continent.
The institutional development of the African Union has been impressive since its formal establishment in July 2002 as the successor organisation to the Organisation of African Unity, OAU. In particular the AU Peace and Security Council, PSC, which was established in May 2004 has demonstrated real leadership and evidence of Africa's resolve in tackling conflicts on the continent. Under the direction of the PSC the African Union is performing a vital and effective role in tackling conflicts such as those in Darfur and Côte d'Ivoire.
The African Union is also living up to its commitment to promote respect for democracy and good governance on the continent. A pan-African parliament has been established while it is also intended to establish an African court on human and people's rights. The AU has also not hesitated to impose sanctions in cases of breach of constitutional order, most recently in Togo where its action along with that of ECOWAS, the West African regional organisation, proved effective in forcing Faure Gnassingbe Eyadema, who had unconstitutionally assumed office on 6 February 2005 following the death of his father, former President Eyadema, to stand down and agree to the holding of presidential and parliamentary elections in accordance with international standards.
The African Union is also contributing notably to the political and socio-economic integration of the African continent principally through the NEPAD, New Programme for African Development, initiative which has now been adopted as the socio-economic programme of the AU. Also, an economic, social and cultural council is due to be established in April 2005. NEPAD is an important African led initiative which aims at eradicating poverty and placing African countries on a path of sustainable growth and development. It also promotes good political and economic governance through its African peer review mechanism under which progress in these areas in individual African countries is closely scrutinised and reported on by a distinguished panel of eminent Africans. Ireland along with EU and other donor countries remains strongly supportive of the NEPAD initiative. Ireland has contributed €300,000 in support of the NEPAD secretariat.
The EU's relations with the African Union were notably enhanced during the period of Ireland's EU Presidency culminating in a highly successful ministerial troika meeting in Farmleigh on 1 April 2004 where agreements on effective multilateralism and Africa's external debt were adopted. The Irish Presidency also saw the establishment of the African Peace Facility under which a total of €250 million is made available from the European Development Fund to assist with AU or African led peace support missions and in strengthening the capacity of the AU secretariat and other African sub-regional organisations for conflict prevention and resolution. Substantial EU assistance amounting to some €92 million has been provided to the AU mission in Darfur, AMIS, through the African Peace Facility while a further €25 million was made available in support of the former AU mission in Burundi. Ireland has also provided considerable financial support to both these missions amounting to some €1 million in 2004. The EU and its member states have also made available military observers and planning experts to assist the AMIS mission including one military observer from Ireland who is currently serving in Darfur. Close ongoing cooperation is being maintained between the EU and AU regarding the AMIS mission and the EU stands ready to provide any further assistance that may be requested. Further requests for assistance from the African Peace Facility can also be anticipated in respect of planned AU missions in Somalia and possibly, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, DRC.
Considerable practical and logistical assistance is also been made available by the EU to the African Union and other sub-regional organisations involved with conflict prevention and resolution within the framework of the ESDP with the External Relations Council adopting a specific action plan for ESDP support to African peace keeping capacity building in November 2004.
Institutional ties between the EU and AU and their respective Commissions are also being developed with close ongoing cooperation between EU and AU representatives in both Addis Ababa and Brussels aimed at establishing a permanent dialogue to improve political and economic understanding and cooperation. The EU Commission plans to provide €50 million to improve the effectiveness and operational capacity of the AU's institutions and enhance the participation of African civil society in the work of the AU. Arrangements are now being made for the accreditation of EU ambassadors to the African Union and it is hoped that the Government will shortly be in a position to agree to accreditation of the Irish Charge d'Affaires in Addis Ababa to act as Irish representative to the AU.
164 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the question of undocumented Irish living in the United States will be raised with President Bush at the St. Patrick’s Day 2005 celebrations in the White House; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7690/05]
252 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the matter of amnesty for illegally resident Irish citizens in the USA will be raised with President Bush during his visit to the USA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8105/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 164 and 252 together.
The number of Irish people who may be resident in the United States without the appropriate authorisation is difficult to estimate. While the US authorities have estimated that the number may have declined to 3,000 in the year 2000, I know that many of the organisations working with our emigrants would regard this figure as a very low estimate.
The Deputy can be assured the circumstances of undocumented Irish people in the US are raised on an ongoing basis in our bilateral contacts with US political leaders, including when I met key members of the US congress during my visit to Washington in February. I welcome recent comments by President Bush that immigration reform will be a high priority during his second term in office. Such comments reflect an awareness of the importance of addressing the situation of the undocumented in the US in a constructive and sympathetic way. All proposals for reform will, have to be considered in detail by the US Congress. While the agenda for the meeting with President Bush has not been finalised, the Deputy can be assured that the Taoiseach and I will raise this issue in our meetings over the St. Patrick's Day period with our contacts in the US Administration and Legislature.
I am acutely aware of concerns regarding the circumstances of some Irish emigrants living in the United States and of the stress which their undocumented status causes to them and to their families. The information and advice which the Irish immigration centres in the US make available to our community there is of particular relevance at this complex time of change. They provide much needed front-line services to meet a wide range of needs. In 2004, funding to these organisations from my Department was €535,000, representing an increase of 83% on the previous year. I was delighted to secure a very substantial increase in funding for emigrant services in 2005, and this will enable us to support these organisations even further this year in their invaluable work. The Deputy can be assured that, through the ongoing efforts of our embassy and my own contacts and those of my cabinet colleagues with political leaders in the US, we will continue to encourage and support all measures that benefit Irish citizens in the US.
As the Deputy will be aware, immigration controls and procedures are a highly sensitive issue in the United States, particularly since the tragic events of 11 September 2001. We can anticipate a vigorous debate in the US Congress on any measures proposed to regularise the circumstances of undocumented people.
165 Mr. Kehoe asked the Taoiseach the number of children born in the State from January 2004 to January 2005; the number of children born to mothers who are registered as self-employed during the same period. [7507/05]
The number of births registered in the State between January and June 2004 was 31,134. The Central Statistics Office do not yet have figures for births registered after June 2004.
The data requested on the number of children born to mothers who are registered as self-employed is not available as no information is collected on the employment status of the mother on the birth notification form.
166 Ms Burton asked the Taoiseach the total amount paid in fees or remuneration to a person (details supplied) for consultancy or other work carried out for or on behalf of his Department for each year since 1998; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7475/05]
There have been no payments made by or on behalf of my Department to the person named.
167 Ms Burton asked the Taoiseach the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7919/05]
The number of staff employed in my private and constituency offices and the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each office are detailed in the following table.
|
Office |
Number of staff employed |
Current annual salaries |
Total expenses paid January 2004 to date |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Private Office |
13 |
566,103 |
11,830 |
|
Constituency Office |
8 |
241,275 |
Nil |
In addition to the staff of my private office, I have a number of advisory staff whose role is to keep me informed on a wide range of issues including business, financial, economic, political, administrative and media matters.
168 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the planned new services in 2005 for 8.3% of the population here who have an impairment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7499/05]
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 for people with an intellectual, physical and, or, sensory disability. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matters raised and reply to the Deputy.
169 Mr. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason speech and language therapy services are not available to a person (details supplied) in Dublin in his present school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7515/05]
179 Mr. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if speech and language therapy services have been withdrawn from a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 due to the fact he is now attending a school outside the catchment area of his local health centre or if this has happened for some other reason; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7517/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 and 179 together.
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 speech and language therapy, for people with a physical and, or, sensory disability. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matters raised and reply to the Deputy.
170 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the Mid-Western Health Board will review its decision to withdraw referrals from a school (details supplied) in County Clare to mainstream schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7525/05]
185 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason enrolment has stopped at a special needs school (details supplied) in County Clare; if this school will not close; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7554/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 170 and 185 together.
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 topic referred to by the Deputy.
Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's mid-western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputies.
171 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if every assistance will be given to a person (details supplied) to facilitate her return from Barcelona. [8035/05]
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. As the person in question resides in Dublin, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply to the Deputy directly.
172 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her estimate of the number of persons entitled to repayment of charges for publicly-funded long term residential care, specifically the number of persons from County Clare. [7479/05]
My Department is currently studying the Supreme Court judgment in detail and will take on board all the consequences for policy and law arising from the judgment.
The details of a repayment scheme to address the situation following the Supreme Court decision are currently being finalised and it is only following this that it would be possible to calculate the number of persons involved overall.
However while overall figures have now been estimated at 315,818, given the difficulties now emerging in relation to the records of individuals' addresses which exist, it will not be possible at present to provide accurate calculations of numbers in specific areas until further work has been done by the Health Service Executive.
173 Mr. Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her estimate of the number of persons entitled to repayment of charges for publicly funded long term residential care, specifically the number of persons from Tipperary south. [7481/05]
My Department is currently studying the Supreme Court judgment in detail and will take on board all the consequences for policy and law arising from the judgment.
The details of a repayment scheme to address the situation following the Supreme Court decision are currently being finalised and it is only following this that it would be possible to calculate the number of persons involved overall.
However, while overall figures have now been estimated at 315,818, given the difficulties now emerging in relation to the records of individuals' addresses which exist, it will not be possible at present to provide accurate calculations of numbers in specific areas until further work has been done by the Health Service Executive.
174 Mr. Allen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 145 of 17 November 2004, if the information then sought will be provided. [7485/05]
My Department contacted the Health Service Executive Southern Area on the Deputy's behalf and has been advised by it that a response issued to him on 22 November 2004. My Department will forward a copy of this reply to the Deputy for his information.
175 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the budget provided for acute services in St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny for 2005; if the amounts allocated for the past five years will be published; the number of hospital managers currently employed by her Department to run St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny; the number of salaries paid to them for the past year; and if the corresponding figures for the past five years will be published. [7491/05]
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 St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to reply directly to the Deputy in the matter.
176 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the disability categories which qualify for a medical card; the situation regarding persons with intellectual disabilities over 16 years of age; and if she will make a statement on persons with disabilities and medical cards. [7498/05]
Eligibility for health services in Ireland is primarily based on residency and means. Under the Health Act 1970, determination of eligibility for medical cards is the responsibility of the Health Service Executive (HSE) other than for persons over 70 who are automatically entitled to a medical card.
Medical cards are issued to persons, who in the opinion of the HSE are unable to provide general practitioner, medical and surgical services for themselves and their dependants without undue hardship. It is open to all persons, including those with a disability, to apply to the chief officer of the relevant HSE area for health services if they are unable to provide these services for themselves or their dependents without hardship.
The setting of income guidelines for medical cards is a matter for the HSE which has discretion in issuing of medical cards, and a range of income sources are excluded when assessing medical card eligibility. Despite someone having an income that exceeds the guidelines, a medical card may still be awarded if the HSE considers a person's needs or other circumstances justify this.
Persons aged 16-25, including students, who are financially dependent on their parents are entitled to a medical card if their parents are medical card holders. Those who are dependants of non-medical card holders are not normally entitled to a medical card except where they have an entitlement under EU regulations or where they are in receipt of a disability allowance.
For those who do not qualify for a medical card there are a number of schemes which provide assistance towards the cost of medication. Under the long term illness scheme, the relevant area of the HSE may arrange for the supply, without charge, of drugs, medicines and surgical appliances to people with a specified condition for the treatment of that condition. These conditions are mental disability, mental illness — for persons under sixteen -, phenylketonuria, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida, hydrocephalus, diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, haemophilia, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophies, parkinsonism, conditions arising from thalidomide and acute leukaemia.
Non-medical card holders can also avail of the drugs payment scheme, which protects individuals from excessive drug costs. Under this scheme, no individual or family unit pays more than €85 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines.
The health strategy includes a whole series of initiatives to clarify and expand the existing arrangements for eligibility for health services including recommendations arising from the review of the medical card scheme carried out by the health board CEOs under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness.
The Programme for Prosperity and Fairness also contained a commitment that a working group be established to examine the feasibility of introducing a cost of disability payment. This working group is to conduct a review of medical card entitlements for people with disabilities.
177 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason the number of medical cards in the South East Region has fallen from 39,508 in January 1997 to 34,969 in mid-February 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7508/05]
Generally, the reduction in recent years in the number of medical cards may be attributed to the increase in the number of people in employment and the improved economic situation nationally. Another factor which affects this area is the ongoing review by the Health Service Executive of medical card databases, which has led to deletions of medical card records due to duplicate entries, change of address, cases where the medical card holder is deceased, ineligibility due to changed circumstances and ongoing normal reviews.
The determination of eligibility of applications for medical card is a matter by legislation for the chief officer of the relevant area of the Health Service Exeuctive. In determining eligibility, the local area of the Health Service Executive will have regard to financial circumstances and medical needs of the applicant. A medical card will be issued to a person, for whom, in the opinion of the chief officer, the provision of medical services for him/herself and, or, their dependants would cause undue financial hardship.
In November of last year I increased the medical card income guidelines, by 7.5 % for determinations of full eligibility, together with significant rises in respect of dependants with a view to extending the number of medical cards by 30,000 in 2005. These guidelines are in operation since January 2005. The introduction of the doctor visit card will extend eligibility to a patient holding a doctor visit card, to general practitioner services under the general medical services scheme. These patients' income can be up to 25% in excess of the income guidelines used for the assessment of full eligibility. The legislation required to enact this is currently going through the Seanad. It is hoped that a further 200,000 persons will become eligibile for GP services in 2005 as a result of this measure.
My Department has requested the chief officer of the Health Service Exeuctive, south eastern area to investigate this matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.
178 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the implementation of the provisions of the Civil Registration Act 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7509/05]
The Civil Registration Service has been engaged in a major modernisation programme in recent years, including conversion of historic records to electronic format, implementation of a new computerised registration system and organisational reform. This work, which is key to the implementation of the Civil Registration Act 2004, is being carried out in phases and the stage has been reached where it will soon be possible to begin commencing certain provisions of the Act.
The Civil Registration Act 2004 provides for the commencement of the various provisions of the Act on a gradual basis. It is expected that parts 1, 2, 3, 5 and 8 of the Act, which relate to the administration of the service and the registration of births, stillbirths and deaths, will be commenced shortly.
The new procedures for marriage are set out in part 6 of the Act, and include universal procedures for notification, solemnisation and registration of marriages. Before these provisions can be commenced, a substantial body of work needs to be completed, including drafting and publication of regulations, guidelines and detailed procedures; establishment of a register of solemnisers in consultation with religious bodies; establishment of a register of approved venues for civil marriages; and the further development of the computer system to facilitate the administration of the new marriage provisions introduced by the Act.
In addition, the General Register Office is decentralising to Roscommon in April 2005, and this involves considerable effort to ensure the transfer of sufficient skills and corporate knowledge to enable the new team to provide an efficient service from the new location. For these reasons, an tArd Chláraitheoir — Registrar-General — is unable to give a specific date for the implementation of the new marriage procedures, but it is unlikely to be before the end of this year. It is intended to give as much public notice as possible, and a comprehensive public information campaign will be undertaken at the appropriate time.
180 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called to an outpatient clinic in Mayo General Hospital. [7518/05]
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 Mayo General Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's Western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
181 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if advice will be given to persons (details supplied) in Dublin 3 concerning public health and safety issues with regard to empty and deserted houses; and if she will make a statement on health issues regarding vacant houses. [7530/05]
Inquiries have been made of Dublin City Council concerning the premises referred to by the Deputy. I am advised that the house is privately owned and currently unoccupied. I understand that while the property is in need of maintenance, there is no evidence of illegal dumping. I am further advised that it is open to any concerned person to bring the matter to the council's attention with a view to seeing what action, if any, may be open to the council.
The Health Service Executive, HSE, has responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Persons who have public health concerns in relation to vacant houses should, in the first instance, contact their local Health Service Executive area office.
182 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13 was treated badly at a hospital’s accident and emergency department; and the further reason the chief executive officer ignored the complaint of this person’s family. [7531/05]
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.
Services at Beaumont Hospital are provided under an arrangement with the executive. My Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to examine the issues raised and to reply to the Deputy directly.
183 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the circumstance and requirements or health care of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be investigated with a view to granting a wheelchair, home aids and transport to hospital for appointments. [7532/05]
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 providing aids and appliances. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to investigate the matters raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
184 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if travel allowances have been taken away from persons involved in home help; if the maximum number of hours for each person receiving home help is now ten per week; if benchmarking applies to those involved in home help; if so, when it will be paid; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7533/05]
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 personnel social services. This includes responsibility for the home help service.
My Department has therefore requested the national director for primary, community and continuing care in the Health Service Executive to investigate the matters raised by the Deputy in relation to home helps and reply directly to him.
186 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of students who applied for a medical card for each of the years 2002, 2003, 2004, under the condition that they are financially independent of their parents and who satisfy a means test; the number of medical cards granted to students in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7562/05]
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 assessment of applications for medical cards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Health Service Executive, primary community and continuing care directorate to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
187 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 127 of 10 February 2005, if her Department has investigated the reason charges were raised in the case on a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7566/05]
I understand that a reply issued from my Department to the Deputy on this matter on the 1 March 2005.
188 Mr. Ferris asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will revise rule 3 of An Bord Altranais pertaining to public health nursing; and the reason the changes relating to PHN training were introduced. [7571/05]
This is a matter for An Bord Altranais. Regulation of the nursing and midwifery professions, including setting of requirements and standards in the education programmes for registration, is the statutory responsibility of An Bord Altranais. The board is a broadly representative body. The 29 members include 17 elected by nurses who are representative of all the divisions of the register. In November 2004 the board approved a number of changes to the nurses rules including the following amended rule in relation to admission requirements for nurses wishing to train in public health nursing.
Before admission to the programme for education and training leading to registration in the public health nurses division of the register, the name of the candidate for the registration must already be entered in the Register of Nurses and the candidate must have two years clinical experience in nursing. Unless the candidate's name is entered in the midwives division of the register, the candidate must complete an An Bord Altranais approved module or unit of study on maternal and child health as part of the programme.
I understand that in framing this rule change the board was mindful of recommendation 8.30 of the report of the Commission on Nursing which recommended dropping the mandatory requirement for a midwifery qualification for those wishing to train as public health nurses. My approval is required under section 26 of the Nurses Act 1985 and these rules were formally approved by me in December 2004 as soon as they were submitted by the board.
189 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo had an appointment for Galway Regional Hospital cancelled on five occasions. [7575/05]
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 Galway Regional Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
190 Mr. Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons waiting for either orthodontic assessment or treatment in Tipperary South between 1999 and 2004 annually; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7584/05]
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 orthodontic waiting lists. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
191 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons waiting for either orthodontic assessment or treatment in Clare between 1997 and 2004 annually; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7585/05]
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 orthodontic waiting lists. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's mid-western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
192 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the Health Service Executive’s national service plan will be available, in view of the fact that provision of a new accident and emergency unit at Letterkenny General Hospital is a matter to be addressed in the context of this plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7586/05]
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 services at Letterkenny General Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's north western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
I have identified the delivery of accident and emergency services as a priority area for attention. I have announced a ten-point action plan on accident and emergency services which is being financed with €70 million current funding and €10 million capital funding. My Department is liaising with the HSE to progress the implementation of the plan.
193 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will re-issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7655/05]
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 assessment of applications for medical cards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
194 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the immediate and urgent help available for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 2; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7656/05]
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 services in the Dublin 2 area. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
195 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the addiction service of the northern area health board has been notified that only existing levels of service, with no service developments or service expansions, are to be funded in 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7657/05]
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 funding for addiction treatment services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
196 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the provision of a new community hospital in Tralee, County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7658/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services.
As part of the executive's responsibility to prepare and submit an annual service plan for my approval, it is obliged under section 31 of the Act to indicate any capital plans proposed by the executive. In this process, the executive can be expected to have regard to the full range of potential capital developments, its own criteria in determining priorities, available resources and any other relevant factors.
I have received the Health Service Executive's national service plan and it is being examined by my Department, in consultation with the HSE, at present.
197 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans for Hawkins House; if there are plans to dispose of or refurbish the property; the basis upon which any such agreement will be entered; if, specifically in relation to Hawkins House, she is being advised by an auctioneer; if so, the name of that person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7659/05]
Hawkins House is the property of the Office of Public Works, OPW. At present my Department is the main tenant in this building. The OPW has been requested to identify a suitable corporate headquarters for my Department and I understand negotiations are ongoing with a number of shortlisted developers. My Department has no input into these negotiations. Any plans for disposal or refurbishment of Hawkins House subsequent to my Department's move are a matter for the property section of the OPW.
198 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a knee operation will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if a decision in the case will be expedited. [7671/05]
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. As the person referred to by the Deputy resides in County Kilkenny, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to investigate the matter raised and reply directly to the Deputy.
199 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason the western region of the Health Service Executive has been unable to financially assist a person (details supplied) in County Galway concerning a blood circulation appliance; if similar patients in counties Mayo and Roscommon are treated differently; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that if this appliance were not made available at home the patient would have to be hospitalised at great cost to the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7725/05]
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 for residents of County Galway. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
200 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if funding will be provided for the immediate construction of the proposed new hospital in Dingle, County Kerry, in view of the fact that a site is being made available without any cost to the State. [7726/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January, 2005. Under the Act, the executive is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services.
As part of the executive's responsibility to prepare and submit an annual service plan for my approval, it is obliged under section 31 of the Act to indicate any capital plans proposed by the executive. In this process, the executive can be expected to have regard to the full range of potential capital developments, its own criteria in determining priorities, available resources and any other relevant factors.
I have received the Health Service Executive's national service plan and it is being examined by my Department, in consultation with the HSE, at present.
201 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive orthodontic treatment; if the relevant authority will review this case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7759/05]
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 orthodontic services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
202 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 886 of 29 September 2004, the funding which has been made available by her Department under the National Development Plan to progress the €20 million upgrading of Ennis General Hospital for 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7761/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for facilities at the Mid Western Regional Hospital, Ennis. An outline development control plan for the hospital has been prepared and was endorsed by the mid western health board in December 2004. The question of progressing the proposed development is a matter for the Health Service Executive in the context of the Capital Investment Framework 2005-09.
203 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 109 of 1 December 2004, the way in which a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will obtain speech therapy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7762/05]
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 speech and language therapy for people with a physical and, or, sensory disability. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matters raised and reply directly to the Deputy.
204 Mr. Ardagh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to the Liberties home help service for each of the years 2003, 2004 and 2005; the money which has been allocated to the Liberties home help service; the number of hours the Liberties home help service has given or proposes to give to clients; and the number of hours requested by clients of the Liberties home help service. [7785/05]
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 home help services in the Dublin area. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
205 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a nationwide campaign will be launched to encourage people to carry a health curriculum vitae on their person at all times; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7787/05]
I have no plans to develop a campaign of this nature in 2005. However, a key element of the report, Health Information — A National Strategy, which was published in 2004, is the development of the electronic health care record. This will provide appropriate secure access by clinicians to patient records at the point of care. It is anticipated that access to the electronic health care record will be underpinned by a patient held card. While this card may contain limited clinical information, such as emergency information, chronic conditions or allergies, it is expected to act as a key to the record rather than hold the patient's details. The exact structure and format of the electronic health care record and any associated card will be determined at the detailed design stage and will take into account European and other international trends and developments in this area.
The Deputy may also wish to note that in phase II of the development of the European health insurance card, discussions at EU level will explore the possibility of enabling this card to hold electronic data, such as personal health data. The card, which was introduced on 1 June 2004 and replaced the E111 and certain other forms, provides evidence of an individual's entitlement to necessary health care while on a temporary stay in another state of the EU, the EEA or in Switzerland and currently carries eye readable data only.
206 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the use of equipment under the authority of the Health Service Executive by a family, which is causing noise pollution, can be requested to cease because of serious disturbance to neighbours and if she can give advice on resolving this issue. [7793/05]
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. As the question relates to equipment under the authority of the Health Service Executive, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy
207 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will receive a special chair from the mid-western health board in order to facilitate a disability; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7812/05]
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 aids and appliances. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's mid-western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
208 Mr. Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on an appeal for a medical card for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7813/05]
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 assessment of applications for medical cards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
209 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of public long stay beds in each county for each of the years 1997, 2002 and 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7817/05]
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 number of public long stay beds. Accordingly, my Department has requested the national director of primary, community and continuing care of the Health Service Executive to investigate the matter raised and to reply direct to the Deputy.
210 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the avenues open to a person (details supplied) in County Sligo to ensure that a general practitioner completes his application for a medical card in view of the fact that he is scheduled to enter a treatment centre on 9 March 2005; if she will ensure that her officials issue a temporary medical card to allow this person to have this treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7843/05]
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 assessment of applications for medical cards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's north western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
211 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if persons who held a medical card and had to stay in a private nursing home as there was no place available in a public nursing home will also be compensated in relation to the repayments to persons overcharged for stays in public nursing homes. [7844/05]
The Supreme Court judgment of 16 February 2005 related only to charges in public long stay institutions and publicly contracted beds in private nursing homes. A special Cabinet sub-committee comprising the Taoiseach, Deputy Ahern, the Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen, the Attorney General, Mr. Brady and I has been established to consider the issue of repayment in light of the judgment.
212 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement on the role of the Health Service Executive with regard to the complaint of persons (details supplied); and if the Health Service Executive has a role in resolving this issue. [7846/05]
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 child welfare issues. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the Health Service Executive, eastern regional area, to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
213 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has received any report from health agencies about the possibility of retaining facilities (details supplied) in use in an area where there is a huge unmet need; and if she can ensure that all existing patients are properly provided for. [7847/05]
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 services in Dublin 9. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
214 Ms Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons employed in her private office and her constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7920/05]
Following are details of the number of staff employed in my private and constituency offices and the amount paid in respect of salary and expenses. Salary costs exclude employer's PRSI and pension contributions.
|
Office |
Staff numbers |
Staff salary costs excl Employer ER & Pension contributions |
Expenses |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Private Office |
11 WTE |
613,345 |
0.00 |
|
Constituency Office |
6.5 WTE |
244,791 |
0.00 |
|
Totals |
17.5 WTE |
858,136 |
0.00 |
215 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will expedite a medical card application for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [7937/05]
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 assessment of applications for medical cards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
216 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the total annual budget allocated to Mullingar General Hospital, Tullamore General Hospital and Portlaoise General Hospital in each of the past five years. [8029/05]
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 Mullingar, Tullamore and Portlaoise General Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's midland area to investigate the matter raised and to reply to the Deputy directly.
217 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress made in the appointment of accident and emergency consultants to the former midland health board area; the number of such specialists appointed; and the way in which these consultants are deployed to give cover to each of the accident and emergency facilities in the area, reflecting the case load at each facility. [8030/05]
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 appointment and deployment of accident and emergency consultants. As the question relates to the position in the former midland health board, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's midland area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
218 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if he will press for the sale of IMF gold in order to fund debt cancellation for the poorer countries worldwide. [7480/05]
Adequate financing for debt relief is essential to help reduce poverty in many parts of the world. It is important to adequately finance the relief of debts owed to the International Monetary Fund so that the fund can continue to play a role in the poorest countries. The managing director has stated that he will, as requested, bring forward proposals at the spring meetings, covering the fund's gold and other resources. These resources are part of the assets of the IMF. The proposals are awaited and will be assessed when available, not least from the perspective of the need to ensure that the IMF has the resources necessary to carry out its critical functions in future.
The sale of part of IMF gold reserves to cover the costs of additional debt relief has been proposed, in addition to a number of other mechanisms, to fund the relief of the debts of poor countries. Agreement on any such mechanisms may be problematic, given possible opposition by certain states to gold sales.
219 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the estimates Ireland has submitted for 2003 to the European Commission of the income from stallion fees that was exempt from tax under the tax relief scheme for such income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7520/05]
223 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the amount of the estimate for 2003 of the stallion income earned, as recently submitted by his Department to the European Commission. [7567/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 219 and 223 together.
In relation to the cost of the exemption, the European Commission's directorate general for agriculture and rural development in their letter of 20 April 2004 to the Irish authorities sought, inter alia, information on the amounts concerned. If no detailed official statistics can be provided, then the Irish authorities are requested to give best estimates on the number of holdings concerned, the number of stallion nominations performed, the relevant tax brackets and the regular price paid for such nominations.
In response, the Commission was informed by the Irish authorities that, as the measure represented tax exempt income, there has been no requirement on those claiming the exemption to supply any details to the Revenue Commissioners of the amount of income involved. Therefore, the information requested on the cost was not available.
The Commission was also informed that this position changed with the introduction, through section 33 of the 2003 Finance Act, of an amendment to section 231 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 which provided that the profits, gains or losses arising in this regard must be included in the annual return of income for the taxpayer even though the income or gains are exempt from tax. This requirement applies in respect of chargeable periods commencing on or after 1 January 2004. The Commission was also informed that this information, which will not be available in full until early 2006, will enable more reliable information to be determined as to the cost or otherwise to the Irish Exchequer of the exemption. Other statistical estimates as requested by the Commission in relation to numbers of stallions, numbers of stallion farms, nominations and fee ranges were obtained from industry sources and were provided to the Commission in addition to the tax rates applicable. However, this could not give the cost of the exemption as this can only be obtained on the basis of the individual returns for each taxpayer claiming the exemption.
Subsequently, a copy of the report by Indecon International economic consultants, Assessment of the Economic Contribution of the Thoroughbred Breeding and Horse Racing Industry in Ireland, was sent to the Commission at the end of September 2004. That report contained an estimate that the Exchequer cost of the exemption was in the region of €3 million, which was based on the consultants' own research and analysis. It was not an estimate prepared by the Irish authorities.
220 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the reason employees of a company (details supplied) do not have to pay income tax here. [7542/05]
I am unable to answer a parliamentary question about the tax affairs of an individual or a company, other than when the Deputy asking the question is asking it on behalf of the taxpayer. As it would appear that the Deputy is not asking the question with the consent of the company or employees concerned, I am unable to provide the information sought as the tax affairs of individuals or companies are confidential between them and the Revenue Commissioners.
However, I am assured by the Revenue Commissioners that they continually monitor the tax compliance position of all companies and their employees and take appropriate action where necessary.
For the information of the Deputy, there is provision in the income tax code for a remittance basis of taxation for Irish resident taxpayers who are foreign domiciled. Under this provision, which has been in existence since 1918, such persons pay Irish income tax only on that part of their foreign income which is remitted here.
221 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the position following the feasibility report on flooding (details supplied) in County Wexford; if local persons will be allowed to have an input in the decision making process on the way in which to alleviate the threat of future flooding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7544/05]
A draft copy of a feasibility report for proposed works in the area in question has recently been submitted by the OPW to Wexford county council for their examination. A meeting will be arranged shortly between the OPW and local authority officials to discuss this report and its recommendations. Should a decision be taken to proceed with works under the OPW's arterial drainage legislation, any proposed works would be placed on public exhibition for a period of three to four weeks to allow the public to submit any observations they might have in relation to works.
222 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 is due a tax refund. [7551/05]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that assessments have been made on the basis of the returns submitted through the Revenue online service and that the record does not indicate that tax has been overpaid.
224 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance the responsibility the OPW has and has had for the conservation programme of the Asgard; the dedicated funds that were pledged for the programme; if these funds can be transferred to the National Museum to allow this work to proceed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7763/05]
The Asgard is an archaeological object as defined by the National Monuments Act, 1930 and as amended by the National Monuments (Amendment) Act, 1994, and as such, the Department of Arts, Sports and Tourism takes responsibility for its preservation.
The Asgard, by arrangement with the National Museum of Ireland, is in safe-keeping at John's Road, Inchicore, under the care of my office. The National Museum of Ireland requested my office to examine the feasibility of developing a permanent exhibition facility for the Asgard within the NMI Collins Barracks complex. OPW has identified a number of possible locations within Collins Barracks and has written to the National Museum seeking detailed information regarding such matters as exact dimensions, conservation requirements, display criteria and interpretation. A response to this request is awaited from the National Museum. On receipt of full information, a feasibility report can be finalised by June of this year.
225 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Finance the date on which it is proposed to commence the public consultation process, statutory process on the Clonmel flood alleviation scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7784/05]
The current position with the Clonmel flood relief scheme is that phase 1 works, including the removal of problem vegetation at Dudley's Weir and the clearing of the Auk and Whitening streams, are under way. This phase of works, due for completion later this month, is being undertaken by Clonmel Borough Council and is being funded by the Office of Public Works. Work on the development of an early flood warning system is also under way by OPW.
The next stage of the process will be the formal public exhibition of the proposed scheme. This is programmed to commence in the third week of May 2005, and the date will be adhered to subject to there being no undue delay with the revised hydraulic modelling of the river, which is currently being completed. The exhibition will then be on display for one month and will invite comment from all interested parties during this time. All observations received will be carefully considered before moving to the next stage of confirmation and detailed design of the next phase of the scheme.
226 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Finance when the promised spring report on decentralisation will be issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7788/05]
The date for submission to me of their next report is a matter for the decentralisation implementation group. When I receive the report I will bring it to Government for consideration. Subject to approval by the Government, the report will subsequently be published.
227 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the future of lands owned by his office in County Clare (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7791/05]
The regional veterinary laboratory of the Department of Agriculture and Food currently occupies the land. Under the decentralisation programme this laboratory is scheduled to move to Macroom. When the lands are vacated a review of all State property requirements in that area will be undertaken to determine how best the lands can be utilised.
228 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance if a trust fund established collectively by the Roman Catholic bishops called the Stewardship Trust has applied to the Revenue Commissioners for charitable status for the purposes of the Taxes Acts; if such status has been granted; if it has not been granted, the tax treatment of that trust; if making contributions towards the payment of awards of damages and the costs associated with such awards could ever be regarded as a charitable purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7818/05]
Any body may apply for charitable tax exemption under tax law and this may be granted by the Revenue Commissioners where the applicant fulfils the criteria in either one or more of the following activities: the relief of poverty; the advancement of religion; the advancement of education; and certain other works of a charitable nature beneficial to the community.
In addition, the body must be legally established in the State and have its centre of management and control therein; it must ensure that its objects and powers are so framed that every object to which its income or property can be applied is charitable; and it must be bound, as to its main objects and the application of its income or property, by a governing instrument, for example memorandum and articles of association in the case of an incorporated body, deed of trust, constitution or rules in the case of an unincorporated body.
Whether a particular activity qualifies as a charitable purpose depends on the circumstances of the case and the application of the rules. I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the trust in question applied for and was granted charitable tax exemption in 1997. Some 6,450 bodies have been granted charitable tax exemption by the Revenue Commissioners.
As the Deputy will be aware, taxpayer confidentiality requires that a Minister for Finance does not answer a parliamentary question about the tax affairs of an individual or body, other than when the question is being asked on behalf of the taxpayer. In this instance, it is not clear that the Deputy is asking the question on behalf of the trust. In these circumstances, I cannot comment on the individual tax affairs of the trust concerned.
The Deputy may wish to note that bodies that are granted charitable status are subject to periodic review with a view to ensuring their continued compliance with the terms of the exemption. This includes ensuring that income of the charity is applied for charitable purposes.
229 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance the position in regard to the proposal to decentralise part of the OPW to Claremorris, County Mayo; the number of personnel relocated to date; the number proposed to be transferred; if a timetable has been set for the transfer; if it is envisaged that the relocation will be completed by 2007 as proposed in the original announcement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7819/05]
The position in regard to decentralisation proposals is as stated in the decentralisation implementation group report to the Minister for Finance of 19 November 2004. Claremorris was not included by the decentralisation implementation group in the initial phases of moves. The November report indicates that the group had regard to figures emerging from the Central Applications Facility and relevant property and business issues. The group stated that it would report in the spring of 2005 in relation to locations not covered in its November 2004 report. No personnel have as yet been relocated to Claremorris. The proposed number of staff to be decentralised to Claremorris is 150.
230 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if a farmer purchases land for consolidation proposed from an estate agent or auctioneer, if stamp duty will have to be paid on these purchases with reference to the new measures introduced in the Finance Bill 2005 in relation to stamp duty on farmland exchanges for consolidation. [7841/05]
As the Deputy will be aware, the budget announced a special, one-off stamp duty relief relating to an exchange of farm land between two farmers for the purposes of consolidating each farmer's holding. The new relief will mean that no stamp duty will be charged on an exchange of such lands where the lands are of equal value. In a case where the lands exchanged are not of equal value, stamp duty will be charged on the amount of the difference in the value of the lands concerned. Where consideration is paid for the difference in those values, it must be payable in cash.
To qualify for relief, the following main conditions must be satisfied: there must be a valid consolidation certificate issued by Teagasc in existence at the date of the exchange of lands. This certificate is to be submitted to the Revenue Commissioners in support of an application for relief. The Minister for Agriculture and Food, with the consent of the Minister for Finance, will make the necessary guidelines detailing how applications for consolidation certificates are to be made to Teagasc and also setting out, amongst other things, the conditions of consolidation. The farmers involved in the exchange of lands must each sign a declaration, for submission to the Revenue Commissioners, to the effect that each of them will spend at least 50% of their normal working time farming and will farm the land exchanged for at least five years from the date of the exchange.
All the joint owners of the land exchanged, including the farmers, must make a declaration, for submission to the Revenue Commissioners, to the effect that it is the intention of each of them to retain ownership of their interest in the land and that the land will be used for farming, for at least five years from the date of the exchange. The instruments effecting the exchange of land must be submitted to the Revenue Commissioners for adjudication.
The fact that such an exchange may be negotiated through an intermediary is not material, provided the full range of criteria applying to the relief are met. However, the relief does not apply to situations where a farmer purchases land for the purposes of consolidation without an exchange of land taking place — that is, a straightforward purchase of land with no corresponding sale of land to a farmer for the purpose of consolidating that farmer's holding. If such situations were to be covered by the relief, this would represent a very considerable widening of the relief and would dilute its focus, undoubtedly leading to calls from other groups for similar treatment. It would also considerably increase the cost and administration of the relief.
231 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7921/05]
The staffing of my private office and constituency office is set out as follows:
|
Grade |
Number |
Salary Range |
|
Administrative Officer |
1 |
€27,981-€49,529 |
|
Executive Officer |
2 |
€25,704-€40,669 |
|
Staff Officer |
2 |
€29,391-€39,118 |
|
Clerical Officer |
3 |
€20,520- €33,274 |
|
Grade |
Number |
Salary Range |
|
Executive Officer |
1 |
€25,704-€40,669 |
|
Staff Officer |
1 |
€29,391-€39,118 |
|
Personal Assistant |
1 |
€39,035-€46,119 |
|
Personal Secretary |
1 |
€19,499-€37,621 |
In addition overtime, salary-related allowances and allowance payments due to Ireland's Presidency of the EU amounted to €190,054 during 2004.
The amount paid in expenses, travel — foreign and domestic — official entertainment and miscellaneous for the same period amounted to €63,188. In addition to the above there are four clerical officers, two of whom workshare — salary range €20,520-€33,274 — who provide typing and administrative support services to my private office, the constituency office and to the Department of Finance press office. The private secretary to my predecessor was assigned to other duties with effect from 1 November 2004. Apart from that there has been no change to numbers. Staffing in these offices is kept under regular review.
232 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if he has received any requests from Kildare County Council or other bodies or agencies requesting remedial measures or funds for same to alleviate flooding in the Allenwood and Robertstown areas; his plans to respond to such communications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7994/05]
The Commissioners of Public Works have received no requests from Kildare County Council or other bodies or agencies in relation to funding for flood alleviation works in the Allenwood and Robertstown areas of County Kildare. I would point out, however, that these areas are situated on the Royal Canal and maintenance matters etc. relating to this waterway would be a matter for Waterways Ireland.
233 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Finance the financial assistance his Department is making available to traders who suffered severe losses due to the serious flooding in Clonmel in the autumn of 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8032/05]
Following the severe rainfall over several days during the last week of October 2004 which resulted in serious flooding in various locations around the country, the Government approved the establishment of a humanitarian aid scheme, to be administered on the ground by the Irish Red Cross, to relieve severe hardship arising from the flooding of people's homes. The scheme approved by the Government does not apply to businesses.
234 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the reason he confines additional voluntary contributions to the existing pension scheme of an employee, when no such restrictions apply to the self employed, and when contributions to other schemes will promote competition within the pension providers. [8033/05]
Where employers offer pension benefits to employees, these are known as occupational pension schemes. However, even in employments where there is a pension scheme, this may not provide to all employees — whether because of the terms of the scheme or the service history of the employees — the maximum pension benefits allowed by the Revenue Commissioners, that is, a pension of two thirds of final salary and so on. If this is the case, an employee may, depending on the rules of the scheme, top up the occupational pension benefits by paying what are known as additional voluntary contributions, AVCs. An employee can contribute, as between contributions to the occupational pension scheme and AVCs, 15-30% of salary, depending on age, and claim full tax relief, subject to an overall annual earnings cap of €254,000. The additional benefits arising from these contributions may not exceed the maximum benefits permissible.
Although the law does not require occupational pension schemes to allow AVCs, the Pensions Amendment Act 2002 requires, with effect from 15 September 2003, any employer whose employee pension arrangements do not include an AVC facility to offer access to at least one standard personal retirement savings account, PRSA, to be used for AVC purposes, that is, the topping up of the pension benefits.
Even if an AVC facility is provided under the rules of an employer's occupational pension scheme, an employee may still make AVC contributions independently through a PRSA scheme approved by Revenue. It is be the responsibility of the PRSA provider in such a scenario to advise the trustees of the main pension scheme of the relevant details of members who make AVC PRSA contributions and to ensure that the overall pension benefits do not exceed the maximum benefits permissible.
With regard to pensions for the self employed, these personal pensions can either be a PRSA or a retirement annuity contract, RAC. Individuals can contribute 15%-30% of their relevant earnings into a personal pension and claim full tax relief, subject to an overall annual earnings cap of €254,000.
235 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the interim arrangements he is putting in place to facilitate the 180 staff who have already volunteered to decentralise to Clonakilty under the central application facility procedure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7842/05]
The Government's decentralisation programme includes the relocation of my Department's seafood and coastal zone functions, involving 91 posts, and An Bord Iascaigh Mhara, with 93 posts to Clonakilty. Data from the public appointments service, PAS, indicate that 176 expressions of interest have been received for posts in Clonakilty, 140 for posts in the Department and 36 for posts in BIM. As a first step in initiating the transfer processes agreed centrally, PAS has provided details to the Department of applicants expressing an interest in decentralising to Clonakilty.
The Department's priorities are the acquisition of permanent, purpose-built, high quality facilities meeting the needs of staff, providing quality customer service delivery and representing full value for money and also the need to ensure effective business continuity during the process of decentralisation.
The Department is in ongoing liaison with the Office of Public Works in relation to the acquisition of a suitable site and on the detailed specifications of requirements to inform building design. The work is being progressed in line with the decentralisation implementation group's timeframe of early 2007, for completion of the facilities in Clonakilty.
The business case for interim arrangements, in advance of the completion of permanent facilities at Clonakilty is being reviewed. The viability of an interim arrangement would crucially depend on cost and value for money considerations, the availability of suitable interim accommodation, the actual level of take-up of formal offers of transfer by those who have expressed interest the need to promote effective business continuity during the process.
236 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason an authority to regulate adventure centre businesses has still not been set up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7541/05]
I am reviewing a number of issues in relation to the establishment of the adventure activities standards authority, AASA, in light of the decision by the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources in 2003 that the safety services provided by the Department, in particular by the Irish Coast Guard, the Maritime Safety Directorate, and the Mercantile Marine Office should be brought together in a single agency which will be responsible for all elements of marine safety and emergency response services. I appreciate the significance of this matter and I expect to complete my review very shortly.
237 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the details of the report in relation to the proposed coastal barrage for Clonakilty; and if he will now grant the foreshore licence. [7556/05]
A meeting has been held between officials of the Department's engineering division and local authority officials and their advisers to consider matters relating to the proposed barrage. Matters discussed at the meeting included the operating conditions to apply in respect of the barrage. In light of these discussions, the local authority has undertaken to submit revised plans for consideration by the Department.
The revised proposals will be considered as a matter of priority when they are received by the Department.
238 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the plans the Government has to ensure ready access to the grid at an economic rate for wind generated energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7683/05]
My Department established a grid upgrade development programme as a dedicated renewable energy support initiative designed to assist in bringing planned renewable electricity generation projects to fruition. The funding available is €17.32 million from the ESIOP programme with matching funding being provided from the transmission use of system, TUOS, charges by the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER. The Department is currently engaged with the CER and the network electricity operators to agree the optimum use of this resource within the revised decision on connections for windfarms published recently by the CER.
The more specific issues regarding terms and arrangements, including costs, for grid connections are matters for the appropriate grid operator or by way of appeal to the Commission for Energy Regulation in accordance with the provisions of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999. I have no statutory function in such matters.
239 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has amended, altered or authorised an interpretation of the provisions of the 1982 Act to empower the withholding of wage or pension entitlements to current or retired An Post workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7684/05]
I have not amended, altered or authorised any changes to the provisions of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act, 1983 in regard to the conditions of employment of An Post employees or pensioners.
240 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the targets for alternative energy production in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7782/05]
Sustainable Energy Ireland publishes national and sectoral statistics for energy production, transformation and end use. The statistics on energy sources used in electricity production, which relate to all generators of electricity authorised by the Commission for Energy Regulation, are set out in the following tabular form.
|
Energy source |
Share % |
|
Coal |
26.5 |
|
Peat |
10.4 |
|
Fuel Oil |
11.3 |
|
Gasoil |
0.6 |
|
Gas |
47.1 |
|
Renewables |
2.2 |
The current minimum target for increased penetration of renewable energy-sourced electricity is to increase national consumption to 13.2% of total consumption by 2010 as required by Directive 2001/77/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 September 2001 on the promotion of electricity produced from renewable energy sources in the internal electricity market.
241 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the current revised quota for salmon stocks in Ballina. [7798/05]
I rely upon the advice of the National Salmon Commission and the regional fisheries boards' managers in determining the terms of the wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme, which inter alia sets out district quotas for the commercial catch.
While I received detailed advice from the National Salmon Commission on Wednesday last, 3 March, I will need some time to consider all of the advices before I decide on the district quotas, including Ballina, for this year.
I will make my decision in this matter shortly and it is my intention to publish the draft wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme regulations for a 30-day consultation period as soon as possible, in accordance with the requirements of the Fisheries Acts. During this period, interested parties will have an opportunity to submit any objections they may have. Following the receipt and consideration of these, I will then make a final decision on the terms of the scheme, including quotas, for 2005.
242 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to develop an integrated coastal zone management policy for Ireland, in view of a recent review prepared by the coastal and marine resources centre in University College Cork for the Heritage Council in 2004 (details supplied). [7800/05]
The Department has general responsibility, in conjunction with other relevant Departments, for the development of an integrated coastal zone management strategy for Ireland.
A wide range of public bodies and agencies have roles to play in the management of the various aspects and dimensions of the coastal zone. The focus in developing effective approaches to integrated coastal zone management will be on identifying new models to address interactions between the sectors, agencies and legal frameworks which will deliver a more integrated strategic approach to the management of coastal areas and their resources.
In May, 2002, a recommendation on integrated coastal zone management was adopted by the EU Council of Ministers for the Environment. This called on member states, inter alia, to draw up a national strategy or strategies for integrated coastal zone management and established a number of broad principles on which such strategies should be based. The Department will continue to pursue the objective of developing a strategy for Ireland having regard to our overall priorities. Such a strategy will take account of experience elsewhere and ongoing national and international research in this area.
243 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the Government’s views on the development of an EU coastguard; if processes have been put in place to examine such an option; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7801/05]
The Department has responsibility for marine emergency preparedness and response, maritime safety and ship and port security. A high level of cooperation already exists between EU member states relating to these areas. In addition, in recognition of the desire of member states and the Commission to strengthen links and create synergies between enforcement authorities, such as national coastguard services, the preamble to the draft directive of the European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union on ship-source pollution and on the introduction of sanctions for infringements, which is under consideration at the moment, includes a specific provision in relation to examining the feasibility of a European coastguard dedicated to pollution prevention and response.
The draft directive calls for the Commission to undertake a feasibility study on the establishment of a European coastguard dedicated to pollution prevention and response, making clear the costs and benefits. Ireland will participate in any feasibility study in this area and will examine any proposals forthcoming in this regard.
244 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the steps his Department is taking to end the practice whereby valuable fish quotas are being wasted by his Department’s insistence on weighing water as fish in Ireland’s pelagic fishing posts; the reason more appropriate arrangements are not now made by his Department to weigh pelagic fish, taking advantage of the declaration in the EU Council decision at Christmas 2004 designed to facilitate accurate weighing of fish in factories rather than weighing water and fish at weighbridges. [7831/05]
There is no question of any insistence on weighing water as fish. The measures to which the Deputy is referring are EU measures introduced in 2004 to strengthen control in pelagic fisheries as a consequence of concerns about illegal landings right across Europe. As I have previously advised the House, the requirement to weigh fish will continue this year.
Following on from the Council and Commission declaration which I secured at last December's Fisheries Council, the Commission has recently brought forward informal proposals which are currently being evaluated at a technical level. These proposals are designed to provide for the weighing of fish after transport from the port of landing while ensuring full control and accountability. Any such arrangements and rules require to be set at EU level and accordingly the issue of my Department implementing such arrangements on a national basis in advance of the completion of that process cannot arise.
I continue to work closely with the industry to progress this matter and I believe that the current technical evaluation can be completed at an early date following which appropriate and satisfactory revised arrangements can be implemented. However, until such time as new arrangements are agreed, measures have been put in place since early January in our designated landing ports in Ireland that allows for the weighing of fish and the subsequent addition of refrigerated seawater. This addresses to a significant extent the quality and other concerns expressed by the industry last year.
245 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason the valuable scallop fishing fleet in the southeast of the country has had its fishing opportunities cut drastically, such that is now faces ruin. [7832/05]
In November 2003, the Fisheries Council adopted a new regime to manage fishing effort in Western Waters and the "Irish Box" for the demersal, scallop and crab fisheries. This regime replaced the Western Waters regulations of 1995 which also set effort limits for the scallop fleet. The purpose of fishing effort limits in Western waters is to limit access to waters and resources and provide for the sustainable pursuit of fishing activities. Under the Western Waters fishing effort regime agreed in 2003, new fishing effort ceilings were established in June 2004 for the scallop fishery based on the average of the fishing effort levels over a reference period of 1998 to 2002, inclusive. The methodology of taking a recent reference period is consistent with long-established practise in fisheries management and a similar approach was followed for all demersal fisheries and also for crab fisheries.
The establishment of such ceilings for fishing effort, which are applicable not only to Irish fishermen but also to fishermen from a number of other member states, is an important element of conservation for sensitive and vulnerable stocks such as scallops. This approach to the conservation of all fish stocks in western waters was widely supported by all fishermen's organisations that did not wish to see fishing effort increasing further in this area.
The level of fishing effort established for the Irish scallop fleet in the western waters implementing regulation of July 2004, based on the reference years 1998 to 2002 inclusive, is higher than the levels of effort exerted by that fleet in 2001 and 2002. However, because the level of fishing effort increased significantly in 2003 and 2004 above the level set in the Western Waters Regulation, it is necessary to implement management measures to ensure that the level set in the regulation, which was intended to cap fishing effort going forward, is not exceeded in 2005 and future years.
The increased fishing effort by the Irish scallop fleet since 2003 reflects the impacts of both the arrival into the fleet of new vessels and the greater time spent travelling to more distant fishing grounds as a consequence of the depletion of more local stocks. It should be noted that the Marine Institute in its advice on the state of fish stocks in November 2003, considered that, in respect of the important scallop fishery off the south east coast of Ireland, the fishing power and effort are currently in excess of what the resource can sustain. Fishing mortality and fishing effort are regarded as currently too high and unsustainable. Accordingly the Marine Institute recommended that fishing effort should be reduced to return the fishery to sustainability.
The EU effort ceiling now established for scallops, while higher than the actual level of effort exerted in 2001 and 2002, represents a reduction of approximately 33% over 2003. It is important to bear in mind that there are currently no catch limitations on scallops and that fishing effort is the only management instrument in place under European law to limit the exploitation of these stocks.
In order to ensure optimum management of the available effort allocation for this fishery, my officials have held a number of meetings with representatives of the scallop fishermen. I met industry representatives on 11 February and held a comprehensive meeting with them on 1 March to hear at first hand their concerns. While I accept that this is a difficult situation, it remains possible to devise a management system that will ensure that the established effort limits are respected while providing for a sustainable scallop fishery into the future.
To do this we will need to work together with the sector to ensure an equitable outcome for all players in this fishery and to avoid an early closure of the fishery in the event that the fishery is not effectively managed. I am seeking to avoid a situation where, in order to meet Ireland's legal obligations, I have no choice other than to close the fishery early because all the effort has been utilised. It is my desire is to work with the sector to put in place a management system which uses the available effort to the best advantage of the industry over the year as a whole.
I remain fully committed to continue to work with the representative organisation and the fishermen affected to find an appropriate mechanism for the effective management of this fishery to ensure its viability in the long run. I have advised the representative organisation that I am available for further discussions on how these matters can be resolved.
246 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to ensure the ending of practices (details supplied). [7833/05]
The Deputy is referring to a recent report entitled A preliminary investigation on Shelf Edge and Deepwater Fixed Net Fisheries to the West and North of Great Britain, Ireland, around Rockall and Hatton Bank. This report was compiled by representatives of eight fisheries agencies, including Ireland's Marine Institute and Bord Iascaigh Mhara as well as representatives from the UK and Norway.
This important report is currently under consideration by the Department. The occurrence of so-called "ghost-fishing" as a result of fishing gear being discarded and left on the seabed is a cause for concern and requires remedial attention. During its EU Presidency, Ireland made it a priority to press for more environmentally-friendly fishing methods and I am pleased to say that Ireland succeeded in achieving the adoption of Council Conclusions on this important subject. These conclusions were agreed in June 2004 and include provision for the European Commission to develop a pilot project to address the problem of ghost fishing in Community waters, including a retrieval system to remove lost gear. I anticipate progress on this issue during 2005. Catch limitations for deepwater sharks, the main species targeted by the fishery concerned in the report, were introduced at EU level for the first time for 2005 at the December 2004 Agriculture and Fisheries Council.
As many of the deepwater fisheries concerned straddle international waters where non-EU vessels are also fishing, the need for a wider international approach to this problem is an important consideration and in that regard I believe that it is important NEAFC, the North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission, is fully involved and will hopefully act as a catalyst for remedial management measures in that wider context.
247 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that design code BS 8010, which is the design code in use for the proposed onshore section of the high pressure upstream Corrib gas pipeline, North Mayo, connecting the wellhead to the refinery at Ballinaboy, is no longer applicable as this code has been withdrawn and replaced by the relevant European Standard; if he intends to rectify this breach of the European Standard; the name of the Irish national standards authority that is bound to implement the European Standard according to CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations; and if he will make a statement on the continued authorisation of a superseded code in breach of European regulations. [7834/05]
I am aware that BS 8010-2.8:1992 is the standard being employed for the design of the onshore upstream Corrib gas pipeline. I am also aware that this standard has been withdrawn by BSI and is superseded by EN 14161:2003, petroleum and natural gas industries-pipeline transportation systems.
The use of the BS standard is not a breach of any European standard. As these standards are voluntary documents there is no legal requirement for the pipeline constructor to apply any one standard in particular. There is no reason to believe that there is any safety implication in using this withdrawn standard. Most European standards have been developed in order to harmonise practice throughout Europe and have no extra safety requirements over and above the requirements contained in the various national standards that preceded them. The use of this superseded standard is not a breach of any European regulations.
The National Standards Authority of Ireland, NSAI, is obliged to publish all European standards as Irish standards, ISEN, and is also obliged, under CEN internal regulations, to withdraw any conflicting national standards when they publish a European standards as an ISEN. This I understand is an obligation on the NSAI alone. The Deputy should note that the NSAI has published EN14161 as an Irish standard.
248 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7922/05]
Ten staff are employed in my private office. The current annual salaries amount to €320,602. The total amount of expenses paid to date in respect of my private office since my appointment as Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources on 30 September 2004 is €2,583.68.
Five staff are employed in my constituency office. The current annual salaries of these staff amount to €146,284. No expenses have been paid to date in respect of my constituency office.
249 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources further to his reply to the Adjournment debate on 2 March 2005 (details supplied), if he will release a copy of the statutory approvals issued for the Corrib pipeline development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7936/05]
A copy of the decision letter consent to construct a pipeline has been forwarded to the Deputy for his information. The Deputy will note that the recommendations of section 2.2 of Mr. Johnston's report have been incorporated in the letter under technical conditions one to ten.
250 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when his Department’s attention was drawn to the quantified risk assessment for the Corrib upstream gas pipeline commissioned or carried out by a company (details supplied) on behalf of Enterprise Energy Ireland. [8028/05]
The quantified risk assessment for the Corrib upstream gas pipeline referred to by the Deputy came to my Department's attention when the developers applied to my predecessor for consent to construct a pipeline under the Gas Act 1976 as amended, in November 2001.
253 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the funding budgeted for third world relief in Ghana in 2005. [7669/05]
Ghana is not one of the priority countries under Ireland's development assistance programme but the country does receive assistance under several headings. For example, €90,000 has been allocated to Ghana this year under the in-country micro projects scheme. This funding is administered by the embassy of Ireland in Nigeria, which is also accredited to Ghana. In addition, €97,129 has been allocated in 2005 under the non-governmental organisation co-financing scheme for a rural community and sanitation project in Ghana proposed by the organisation Children in Crossfire.
255 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7923/05]
The following tables set out the number of personnel in my private and constituency offices, their positions and payscales.
|
Grade/Position |
Number |
Salaries |
|
Special Adviser (non-established) |
1 |
Principal Officer scale €71,990-€89,047 |
|
Personal Secretary (non-established) |
1 |
Executive Officer (higher) scale €25,704-€42,265 |
|
First Secretary |
1 |
First Secretary scale €55,057-€68,651 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
1 |
Higher Executive Officer scale €39,035-€49,529 |
|
Executive Officer |
1 |
Executive Officer scale €25,704-€40,669 |
|
Clerical Officer |
4 |
Clerical Officer scale €19,493-€31,612 |
|
Total |
9 |
I have also appointed a press adviser, under terms and conditions of employment set by the Minister for Finance. The applicable pay scale is principal officer —€71,990 to €89,047.
|
Grade/Position |
Number |
Salaries |
|
Personal Assistant (non-established) |
1 |
Higher Executive Officer scale €39,035-€49,529 |
|
Executive Officer |
1 |
Executive Officer scale €25,704-€40,669 |
|
Clerical Officer |
4 |
Clerical Officer scale €19,493-€31,612 |
|
Total |
6 |
Overtime, travel and subsistence expenses are paid in accordance with normal civil service regulations.
262 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Ukraine is likely to be considered in the context of future EU enlargement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8002/05]
263 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the countries most likely to feature in discussions on further European enlargement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8003/05]
264 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his preferred options in the progress toward further European enlargement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8004/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 262 to 264, inclusive, together.
The question of the future enlargement of the Union is one which will feature prominently on the EU's agenda for the foreseeable future. The Government has participated actively and positively in negotiations on the enlargement process and will continue to do so. Ireland will continue to give constructive support to the enlargement process on the basis that the European Union should continue to be open to all European states which respect its fundamental values.
With regard to Bulgaria and Romania, the European Council noted the formal closure of accession negotiations at the European Council on 16 and 17 December 2004. Both countries are due to sign an accession treaty on 25 April, on the occasion of the General Affairs and External Relations Council. From that day they will participate as active observers at most EU meetings. The accession of both countries to the European Union will take place in January 2007, if they are ready.
The Helsinki European Council in December 1999 decided that Turkey was a candidate for membership, destined to join the Union on the basis of the same criteria applied to the other candidate states. The December 2004 European Council agreed, on the basis of the Commission's report and recommendation, that Turkey sufficiently fulfils the Copenhagen political criteria to enable the opening of accession negotiations. It requested the Commission to begin work on a proposal for a negotiating framework and to present it to the Council, with a view to the opening of accession negotiations on 3 October 2005. The clear objective of the negotiations will be Turkey's accession to the Union, provided it meets the requirements for membership. The pace of the negotiations will depend in large part on progress in the implementation of Turkey's wide-ranging reform programme. Given the substantial financial consequences of Turkish accession, the European Council agreed that it will not be possible to conclude negotiations until after the establishment of the financial framework for the period from 2014.
The European Union has offered the prospect of eventual membership to the countries of the western Balkans, on the basis of the implementation of a detailed reform process. Croatia applied for membership in February 2003. The June 2004 European Council decided, on the basis of the Commission's opinion, that Croatia is a candidate country for membership and that the accession process should be launched. It decided to convene a bilateral inter-governmental conference with Croatia early in 2005 in order to begin accession negotiations. The December European Council confirmed this decision and invited the Commission to present to the Council a proposal for a framework for negotiations, with a view to opening the accession negotiations on 17 March 2005, provided there is full cooperation with the international criminal tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. The negotiations will be based on Croatia's own merits and their pace will depend solely on Croatia's progress in meeting the requirements for membership.
On 22 March 2004, the Taoiseach, in his capacity as President of the European Council, accepted the application for membership of the former Yugoslav republic of Macedonia at a ceremony in Dublin. The General Affairs and External Relations Council in May requested the Commission to prepare its opinion on the application. I expect that the Commission will present its opinion for consideration by the Council later this year.
Those neighbouring countries that do not currently have the prospect of membership of the European Union are offered opportunities for closer economic integration and political cooperation with the European Union through the European neighbourhood policy. These opportunities are offered in return for concrete progress with political, economic and institutional reforms reflecting shared values.
In this way, it is expected that the European Union and its neighbours, whether or not they are pre-accession countries, will enjoy strengthened relations based on commitments to common values including democracy, respect for human rights and the principles of market economy, sustainable development, as well as poverty reduction.
As a European country, Ukraine has the right, under the Treaty on European Union, to apply for membership of the Union if it respects the principles of liberty, democracy, respect for fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. For the present, it makes sense for the Union to recognise Ukraine as a neighbour in Europe and to seek to develop relations through the action plan established under the European neighbourhood policy.
267 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the importance of the Asgard in terms of its rarity in ship design and historical value; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7649/05]
269 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if immediate steps will be taken to commence the agreed conservation programme on the Asgard during its 100th anniversary year in order that the work be completed and the Asgard be put on public display as part of the 90th anniversary commemoration of the 1916 Rising in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7651/05]
270 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the funding that has been allocated to complete the agreed conservation programme on the Asgard; and the agency to which the funding has been allocated. [7652/05]
271 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the projected cost of the agreed conservation programme on the Asgard; the cost of the proposed custom built unit for locating and conserving the Asgard in the National Museum at Collins Barracks, Dublin 7; if funding has been allocated for this unit; if so, the person to whom; and the details of the staff that have been made available to oversee the move to the custom built unit. [7653/05]
272 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the present location of the Asgard; if it is secure at this location; if its condition is deteriorating; and the agency that is responsible for the Asgard at its present location. [7654/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 267 and 269 to 272, inclusive, together.
I refer the Deputy to my answer to Question No. 82 of Thursday 17 February 2005.
268 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the current level of funding in the Heritage Fund; the plans there are to utilise this fund; if funding will be rededicated from the Heritage Fund to commence the agreed conservation programme on the Asgard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7650/05]
The Heritage Fund Act, which was enabled in 2001, established a fund with an overall limit of €12.697 million over the five-year period 2001 to 2005. The balance in the fund is €5,333,423.
The Act does not permit the use of heritage fund moneys for conservation works and therefore, the conservation of the Asgard is not eligible for assistance therefrom.
273 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his proposed itinerary for the St. Patrick’s week celebrations; the areas and countries involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7720/05]
Full details of my itinerary for the celebrations surrounding St. Patrick's Day are being finalised.
However, as I outlined in my reply last week to the Deputy, the main elements of my programme include a visit to London to participate at the St. Patrick's Day festival which commences on 13 March. This festival, which includes a major parade, has become a highlight in the London calendar over the last number of years. The festival is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the enormous contribution Irish people have made over many years to London and Britain in general.
274 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of ministerial appointees to the HRI board; the mechanism of his Department in seeking nominations from the various interested associations or representative bodies; the details of the verification of such members by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7721/05]
Horse Racing Ireland, HRI, was established as the statutory body with responsibility for the horseracing industry under the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act 2001. Under the terms of the Horse Racing Ireland (Membership) Act 2001, which amended the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act 2001, the members of the board of HRI, which consists of a chairman and 13 ordinary members, are appointed by the Minister.
Of the 13 ordinary members, the Act provides for the racing regulatory body to nominate five for appointment and one nomination for appointment from each of the following interests: authorised racecourses, racehorse owners, racehorse trainers, racehorse breeders, authorised bookmakers and a representative of persons employed in the horse racing industry.
The remaining two members are appointed directly by the Minister from persons employed directly in the horse racing industry and the horseracing industry in Northern Ireland.
The term of office of the chairman is five years while an ordinary member's term of office is four years. On the first, second and third anniversaries of the establishment of HRI, three of the ordinary members retired. These were decided by lot. After the third anniversary the members to retire in any year are those who have been longest in office since their last appointment. A member of the board of HRI shall not serve for more than two consecutive terms.
All initial appointments to the board of HRI were made on December 18 2001. Each subsequent year prior to December, HRI informs my Department of the names of those members who are due to retire. The relevant body is requested to forward to my Department nominations for the board taking into account the Government policy requirement regarding gender balance on State bodies.
275 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of funding under the sports capital programme which was allocated to an organisation (details supplied) in 2003 and 2004; and for the purpose for which the funding was to be used. [7722/05]
A grant of €20,000 was allocated to the organisation in question under the 2003 national lottery funded sports capital programme administered by my Department. The grant was in respect of the provision of a viewing balcony at the sports complex concerned and, following the receipt of the required documentation, was paid in full in September 2004. The organisation did not submit an application for funding under the 2004 sports capital programme.
276 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7924/05]
There are currently seven staff employed in my private office. These consist of one special adviser at principal officer level, one private secretary at higher executive officer level, one personal assistant at higher executive officer level, two executive officers and two clerical officers.
There are currently 6.2 staff employed in my constituency office. These are two executive officers, one personal secretary at Oireachtas secretarial assistant level and 3.2 clerical officers.
All of these staff are paid at the appropriate Civil Service rates. In addition my special adviser and personal secretary are paid 10% attraction allowances in respect of their current positions. My private secretary is paid an allowance at the rate of €17,389 per annum for these duties.
The expenses paid to staff in my private office in 2004 was €25,159.74. There were no expenses paid to staff in my constituency office in 2004.
277 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his objectives in the context of the forthcoming WTO talks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7996/05]
The Government is pleased with the outcome of the World Trade Organisation's, WTO, general council meeting held last July. There, a framework agreement was adopted to further progress the Doha Development Agenda, DDA. We supported its adoption. It sets out the parameters for the next stages of negotiation of the DDA.
WTO members are now in negotiation to translate the provisions of the framework agreement into specific commitments in key areas of interest, which are agriculture, non-agricultural products and services.
In the case of agriculture, the framework agreement includes provision for negotiations to realise a substantial cut in trade-distorting supports, the elimination of export practices that negatively affect trade and the further opening of agricultural markets.
Guidelines are under negotiation for non-agricultural products, which seek to cut tariffs and to eliminate or reduce non-tariff barriers that inhibit trade.
Further progressive liberalisation will be a key feature of the negotiations on services. Exporters in all member states of the European Union have a strong commercial interest in progress being made to improve the effectiveness of the overall environment that impacts on internationally traded services.
On trade facilitation, the simplification of customs rules and procedures is another issue for negotiation and another area where we want to see progress agreed in the interest of developing trade in goods and services.
The provisions of the framework agreement have particular regard to the needs and concerns that have been articulated by representatives of less developed countries. Many of these are now members of the WTO. This country is committed to having those concerns adequately addressed and responded to. That is seen as being an indispensable element of the achievement of overall consensus and final agreement to a new trade round.
Finally, our appreciation of the continuing importance of export-led growth dictates that we support a strengthening of the WTO and of the multilateral trading system that it espouses. That includes a supportive and determined approach to the elimination of the remaining barriers to trade in goods and services.
Liberalisation of the trading regime that informs the development of all economic sectors will facilitate global trade growth and expansion. That is in the national interest and so progress, in the WTO context, will have a direct bearing on this country's economic and social development in the years ahead.
Accordingly, working co-operatively in the EU context, we will now seek to ensure that the negotiation process continues to move forward, towards a mutually acceptable and early conclusion.
278 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when a decision will be made on an application for a renewal permit for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7489/05]
I am informed by the work permit section of my Department that having considered an appeal in this case, it has made a decision to issue the work permit subject to receipt of the fee, which had earlier been returned to the employer.
279 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the provisions which have been put in place and the directives which have been issued to the local employment service and FÁS regarding job-seeking assistance and training for non-national parents of Irish children who have been granted residency. [7516/05]
Persons who have been granted residency in the State on the basis of parentage of an Irish born child are entitled to register with FÁS, to avail of job seeking assistance from both FÁS and the local employment services, and FÁS training, on the same basis as other Irish residents.
280 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7925/05]
There are currently nine staff working in my private office in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and 5.5 staff working in my constituency office. Furthermore 2.8 clerical officers provide clerical support to the private and constituency offices as the need arises.
The following table sets out the annualised salary costs for each office. The figures for expenses are from my appointment as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment on 29 September 2004 to 28 February 2005.
|
Office |
Salary Costs |
Expenses |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Private |
444,730 |
16,341.20 |
|
Constituency |
157,739.91 |
None |
|
Clerical Officer support to both offices when required |
79,388 |
None |
281 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when a decision will be made on an appeal by a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7935/05]
I am informed by the work permit section of my Department, that having heard an appeal in this case and having consulted with the employer, it has been decided to issue work permits to two of the named individuals.
282 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will consider reducing the length of time that persons have to be unemployed to take advantage of the back to education scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7570/05]
The back to education allowance is a second chance educational opportunities programme designed to encourage and facilitate people on certain social welfare payments to improve their skills and qualifications and, therefore, their prospects of returning to the active workforce.
The conditions for entitlement to the third level option of the back to education allowance were revised with effect from 1 September 2004. From that date, the qualifying period was increased from six months to 15 months for new applicants intending to commence third level courses of study.
One of the factors that influenced the change in the qualification conditions is the fact that in practice, some people go on the live register for short periods specifically to qualify for the back to education allowance. In the 2003-04 academic year the majority of participants in the third level option of the scheme were in receipt of an unemployment payment for 12 months or less when they accessed the scheme.
The BTEA scheme was always intended to benefit people who had difficulty finding employment because of a lack of education qualifications. In many cases, people who have not completed second level education are held back in their efforts to obtain employment because of this. The qualification period for people who wish to pursue second level education has remained at six months and the numbers taking second level education with the support of the BTEA are increasing.
As Deputies will be aware, I reduced the qualifying period for access to the third level option of the scheme to 12 months in the recent budget. I also increased the annual cost of education allowance, paid to people on BTEA, from €254 to €400. These changes will take effect from 1 September 2005.
I am satisfied that, overall, the current arrangements ensure that the scheme supports those people who are most distant from the labour market and whose need is greatest. As I have undertaken to the Dáil and the Committee on Social and Family Affairs I will continue to keep the qualifying period for this scheme under regular review.
283 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Galway applied for unemployment benefit; when the claim will be processed; and the breakdown of this person’s social contributions record. [7573/05]
The person concerned applied for unemployment benefit on 31 January 2005. The claim is still under investigation in relation to a possible link, through a community employment scheme, with a previous unemployment benefit claim. A decision on this claim will be made as soon as possible and the person concerned will be notified of the outcome.
The person concerned is currently in receipt of survivor's contributory pension at the weekly rate of €154.30 from my Department. Under social welfare legislation, decisions in relation to claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
Contributions paid and credited under the Social Welfare Acts for the person concerned are as follows:
|
Year |
Contributions Paid |
Credited Contributions |
|
2003 |
2 |
36 |
|
2002 |
20 |
32 |
|
2001 |
52 |
— |
|
2000/01 |
52 |
— |
|
1999/00 |
43 |
9 |
|
1998/99 |
26 |
26 |
|
1997/98 |
52 |
— |
|
1996/97 |
50 |
— |
284 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason rent support was refused in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7679/05]
The Dublin Mid-Leinster region of the Health Service Executive has advised that it has no record of an application for rent supplement from the person concerned. If the person concerned wishes to apply she should contact the community welfare officer at her local health centre who will assess her situation and determine her entitlement.
285 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the weekly rate of repayment of the dietary allowance overpayment in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7680/05]
As the Deputy is aware from my replies to previous parliamentary questions regarding this case, a significant overpayment of diet supplement arose because the person concerned did not notify the community welfare officer that he had commenced employment.
The Health Service Executive, which administers the supplementary welfare allowance scheme on my behalf, is obliged to seek to recover any overpayment of allowance or supplements. The specific diet supplement recoupment arrangements in this case are a matter for resolution between the executive and the person concerned.
The Dublin Mid-Leinster Area of the Health Service Executive has advised it agreed with the person concerned a rate of recoupment of €40 a month and a schedule of payment. The first instalment at the agreed rate was due on 17 February 2005, but no payment has been received from him to date.
The executive is not aware of any proposal to the person concerned of a lower weekly rate of recoupment than that agreed. In the opinion of the executive, the recoupment rate is reasonable given the significant size of the overpayment involved, and will not cause hardship to the person concerned in view of his overall financial situation.
286 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the way in which he perceives the development of child care financial support or other facilities in the future in view of the economic necessity for both parents to work outside the home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7768/05]
My Department administers a number of child income support measures, including child benefit which delivers a standard rate of payment in respect of all children in a family regardless of income levels or employment status.
Child benefit supports all children but delivers proportionately more assistance to those on low incomes and with larger families. The very substantial increases in benefit in recent years can make a significant contribution to meeting childcare costs.
My Department also administers the family income supplement scheme, an in-work income support designed to provide cash support for employees on low earnings with families, to help preserve the incentive to remain in employment in circumstances where the employee might only be marginally better off than if they were claiming other social welfare payments. A range of improvements introduced to FIS in recent years, including the assessment of entitlement on the basis of net rather than gross income and the progressive increases in income limits, has made it easier for lower income households to qualify under the scheme.
The question of specific supports for the provision of child care is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, whose Department administers the equal opportunities childcare programme under the national development plan.
287 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be offered the dietary allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7855/05]
Diet supplements are provided for under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme which is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive.
The Dublin Mid-Leinster region of the executive has advised that it has no record of an application for diet supplement from the person concerned. If the person concerned wishes to apply he should contact the community welfare officer at his local health centre who will assess his situation and determine his entitlement.
288 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7926/05]
There are 11 full-time staff in the private office. This includes a special adviser and a press adviser appointed on a contract basis for my term of office. The total salary, allowances, overtime, employers PRSI and private pension costs for 2004 for the private offices of both the previous Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Deputy Mary Coughlan and myself were €531,665. A breakdown of travel and subsistence expenditure for 2004 is currently not available.
There are six full-time staff assigned to deal with matters in the constituency office including four established civil servants, along with a personal secretary and a personal assistant on a contract basis for my term of office. The total salary costs for 2004 for the constituency offices of former Minister, Deputy Coughlan and I were €231,258.
289 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of meetings which representatives of his Department have had with EU officials regarding the extension of free travel for Irish immigrant pensioners. [7934/05]
I have not yet met formally with EU officials regarding this matter. However, it has been raised in the House a number of times recently and I am continuing my examination of the issues involved, which have budgetary and EU implications.
290 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport if the weight limits on four axle tipper trucks are to be increased for use on public roads; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7484/05]
A possible increase in the maximum weight limit for four-axle vehicles is under consideration in my Department.
291 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Transport when a special theory test will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7534/05]
Driver theory test appointments are arranged by the Driver Theory Testing Service and not by my Department. The service may be contacted at Lo-Call number 1890 606106. Correspondence may be addressed to the customer service manager at PO Box 144, Drogheda, County Louth.
The specification which the contractor operating the driver theory test is obliged to meet provides for the delivery of a user friendly computerised theory testing system and requires that candidates with special needs be provided for. This includes the provision of reading assistance and voice over audio with an extended time slot for the test.
The test is based on a question bank, which has been developed, inter alia, in consultation with the Association for Children and Adults with Learning Difficulties and the National Adult Literacy Agency. The question bank is available in book format or as a CD which includes voice over audio.
292 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to update the rules of the road booklet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7815/05]
My Department has engaged the services of a consultant to facilitate this review. It is the intention to publish a new Rules of the Road booklet in draft form by mid-year and to invite comments or submissions thereon. The new booklet would then be finalised in the autumn.
293 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Transport if a consent to the Medical Bureau of Road Safety has been provided, pursuant to section 38(4) of the Road Traffic Act 1968, for the supply by the Medical Bureau of Road Safety of an apparatus for indicating the presence of alcohol and determining the concentration of alcohol in the breath of drivers; and the form the consent took. [7836/05]
The Road Traffic Act 1994 provided for the introduction of a scheme of evidential breath testing based on the use of apparatus for determining the concentration of alcohol in a sample of breath. The Act provides that drivers may be required to undergo a breath test in a Garda station, instead of a blood or urine test, following arrest for drink driving.
Section 38(4) of the Road Traffic Act 1968, as amended by the Road Traffic Act 1994, provides that the Medical Bureau of Road Safety may, with the consent of the Minister, arrange for the supply and testing of apparatus for indicating the presence of alcohol in the breath and apparatus for determining the concentration of alcohol in the breath.
The Minister for Transport, who bears general responsibility for the Road Traffic Acts, and his predecessor in that regard, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, is represented on the board of the Medical Bureau of Road Safety.
In addition, the Minister provides for the determination of the funding allocation to the bureau. Such funding includes approval to provide for the supply and testing of the relevant apparatus as required.
The evidential breath testing system was introduced with effect from November 1999. This reflected a commitment given in the Government's Road Safety Strategy 1998-2002. Regulations to prescribe the form of the statements produced by the apparatus were made by the then Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government on 20 October 1999.
The system was formally launched by the then Minister of State on 24 November 1999.
294 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the loss of buses to Dublin Bus routes (details supplied) due to the lack of funding from his Department; the action he is taking to prevent this; the reason for the continued delay in providing funding; the dates since he became Minister on which he met with Dublin Bus managers on the restructuring changes that he proposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7814/05]
There has been significant investment made to date under the national development plan in acquiring new buses for Dublin Bus. As a consequence, the capacity of the fleet has been increased by more than 25%. The management of Dublin Bus is currently examining ways of maximizing the utilisation of the bus fleet, in light of the significant investment made to date under the NDP in other modes such as Luas and the DART upgrade, and I am awaiting the outcome of this review. It would, therefore, be premature to make any decisions on further investment in additional capacity. In addition, I am also of the view that both public and private companies have a role to play in meeting the expanding transport requirements of Dublin.
At a meeting with the chairman and management of Dublin Bus on 12 November 2004, the company outlined for me its proposals for the future development of its market. No specific proposals on the restructuring were discussed at the meeting. Discussions on the bus market are continuing between officials of my Department and the management of Dublin Bus.
295 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to complaints concerning current driver-testing arrangements whereby applicants are given very short notice when called for their test; and if he will undertake to improve this arrangement. [7816/05]
Appointments for driving tests are normally issued four to five weeks prior to the date of the test. However, there have been a few occasions where, because of pressure of work, the notification period may have been shorter than this.
Appointments for applicants who require early test appointments for urgent reasons may be filled from test slots that become available due to cancellations. Test appointments filled from the cancellation list will almost always be allocated at short notice as they become available.
296 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Transport the breakdown by region of the €300 million spent through CIE on investment in public transport infrastructure; his plans to fund the change of carriages on the rail network in the south east; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7857/05]
The allocation of funding in respect of national roads improvement projects to local authorities is a matter for the National Roads Authority under section 19(f) of the Roads Act 1993.
I understand from the National Roads Authority that funding allocations to the regions over the period 2001-04 are as follows:
National Roads
|
Year |
South & East Region |
BMW Region |
|
€ million |
€ million |
|
|
2001 |
674.5 |
236.9 |
|
2002 |
910.8 |
182.3 |
|
2003 |
1,034.2 |
186.8 |
|
2004 |
997.0 |
354.7 |
Public Transport Infrastructure
Capital investment in public transport over the period 2000-04 amounted to more than €1.9 billion. The breakdown is as follows:
|
Year |
BMW |
South & East |
Total |
|
€ million |
€ million |
€ million |
|
|
2000 |
59.615 |
364.309 |
423.924 |
|
2001 |
59.822 |
388.877 |
448.699 |
|
2002 |
38.305 |
312.226 |
350.531 |
|
2003 |
48.236 |
354.45 |
402.686 |
|
2004 |
28.78 |
299.796 |
328.576 |
|
Total |
234.758 |
1,719.658 |
1,954.416 |
South-East Rail Network.
The carriages on the Waterford line will be replaced in 2007-08 when the 120 intercity railcars, recently ordered, are introduced to service. The rolling stock on the Rosslare line has recently been replaced with more modern equipment. The funding for rolling stock replacement will come via the Exchequer as part of the national development plan.
297 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Transport if he will review the 1932 Act which controls the granting of licences to private bus operators on routes from the country and to Dublin Airport; if he will take immediate action to create more flexibility in the system and to issue licences to companies that have applied in a further effort to improve bus services to the regions and provide a joined up transport network; the number of applications or expressions of interest being dealt with by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7858/05]
The Road Transport Act, 1932 provides the statutory basis for regulating the bus market in Ireland. This Act is totally outdated and is in need of reform. It is a commitment of this Government to replace the Act with a more modern regulatory framework which achieves a more open, effective and competitive regime and discussions are ongoing with CIE in that regard and it is intended to engage with the CIE unions and the social partners in the near future. Until such time as the necessary reform is achieved, my Department is bound by the provisions of the Act.
My Department currently has on hand 206 applications for new road passenger licences or amendments to existing licences. Applications under the 1932 Act are generally dealt with on a first come, first served basis. However, pressing or exceptional circumstances can be taken into account in determining the order in which applications are dealt with.
My Department regularly reviews ways to improve customer service to its clients particularly in the bus licensing area. In 2004, the bus licensing division put in place procedures to standardize the date of renewal of annual licenses. As a result of this process operators can now renew all their annual licenses on one of two dates in the year rather than having to apply for renewal of licenses at numerous times throughout the year. This initiative should facilitate operators as well as allowing the Department to use resources more efficiently.
Other measures that are in place include preference being given to all time bound applications and amendments received. These for example would typically include school or college services. In addition, the Department is engaged in a project to upgrade IT systems in the bus licensing area to increase efficiency and the speed with which applications are processed.
It is hoped that the combined effect of these measures will be a significantly improved customer service to both the State bus companies and private operators.
298 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has examined the implication of moves by the UK Government to introduce electronic tolling for trucks using roads in Britain and Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7877/05]
In November 2001 the UK Treasury published a consultation document, Modernising the Taxation of the Haulage Industry. The purpose of the document was to set out UK Government thinking on its proposal to introduce a form of lorry road-user charging in the UK. The charge would be implemented to ensure that lorry road-users in the UK contribute on a fairer and more equal basis towards the costs they impose when using roads in the UK. The charge would be levied on all road users regardless of nationality.
Ireland has a special interest in this proposal since Irish hauliers uniquely use the UK as a land bridge to mainland Europe. My Department is monitoring the development of the proposed scheme to ensure that any charging system put in place will not in practice result in unfair cost to Irish hauliers. Any potential disruption of trade and in particular cross-Border, North-South trade must also be avoided.
These concerns have been raised with the UK Treasury and they have indicated a willingness to work closely with my Department when designing the administration of the system and related matters.
299 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Transport the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7927/05]
The information requested by the Deputy is contained in the table below. The expenses incurred are from the date of my appointment to the Department of Transport.
|
Office |
Number of Staff |
Approximate Salaries Cost Per Annum |
Approximate Cost of Expenses (from October 2004 to date) |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Private |
10 |
430,000 |
4,000 |
|
Constituency |
6.1 |
216,000 |
0 |
For my private office, nine of the staff are permanent civil servants. For my constituency office three of the 6.1 are permanent civil servants.
300 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the lack of sufficient buses to meet the requirements of the commuters leaving the city centre and travelling to the towns of Leixlip, Celbridge, Maynooth and Kilcock during the peak evening rush; his plans to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8007/05]
301 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport further to a recent controversy, the position in regard to the adequacy of the bus fleet at Bus Átha Cliath; when it is expected that the necessary funds in line with requirements will be provided; if his attention has been drawn to the lack of capacity and frequency of the services to the towns of Leixlip, Celbridge, Maynooth and Kilcock, with particular reference to the need to address the issue of buses that are fully laden before entering these towns; the proposals he has to address these issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8008/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 300 and 301 together.
The matters raised are operational issues for Bus Éireann and Bus Átha Cliath. However, Bus Éireann has informed me that in recent years it has increased its services to Kilcock by 50% and it has also substantially increased its services to other North Kildare towns such as Celbridge. The Prosperous-Clane-Celbridge-Dublin route, has a 15-minute frequency during the peak times with a 30-minute frequency throughout the rest of the day. These services are operated by high capacity commuter coaches supplemented by sub-contracted vehicles at peak times. Extra buses are provided where necessary in line with demand from Bus Éireann's own resources or through the contract of private sector buses.
The overall capacity of the Bus Átha Cliath bus fleet has been increased by approximately 25% under the NDP to date. Bus Átha Cliath has informed me that they have seven routes from the area referred to, with 30 morning peak departures and 30 evening peak departures. Of the above departures, 40% are direct routes thus providing faster journey times.
With regard to a further expansion in the Dublin Bus fleet, the management of the company is currently examining ways of maximizing the utilisation of the existing bus fleet in light of the significant investment made to date under the national development plan, including investment in other modes and the ongoing changes in demand patterns for Dublin such as Luas and Dart.
Discussions are also taking place on reform of the bus market between officials of my Department and the management of Dublin Bus to meet the expanding transport needs of the greater Dublin area.
302 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport if consideration has been given to reclassifying the narrow height-restricted R109 at St. Martin’s Row and Main Street, Chapelizod, Dublin from a regional road to a local road and to instructing Dublin City Council and other road management agencies to do so, in order to divert heavy goods traffic from this inappropriate route. [8026/05]
A comprehensive review of the national and regional road system was concluded in 1994 as set out in Statutory Instrument 209 of 1994: Roads Act, 1993 (Declaration of National Roads) Order, 1994 and S.I. 400 of 1994: Roads Act, 1993 (Declaration of Regional Roads) Order, 1994. This review was carried out in consultation with local authorities and took account of representations received from a wide range of local interests.
The update of these statutory instruments currently under way is designed to take account of road improvements and route changes since 1994. Nevertheless, the classification of the R109 at St Martin's Row and Main Street Chapelizod road, inter alia, will be reviewed in the update. It is anticipated that the update will be concluded shortly.
303 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Transport if he will investigate the long delays being experienced by drivers in Tallaght seeking driving tests; the action which is open to him on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8027/05]
The Tallaght test centre has a high level of applications to undergo driving tests with an average waiting time of 42 weeks at present. Some 11 driver testers are headquartered at the centre. My Department endeavours to arrange an early test for candidates who provide documentary evidence of the need for an urgent test. My Department is in consultation with the Department of Finance about a package of measures to reduce waiting times at all test centres. The measures include the recruitment of additional driver testers as well as increased productivity.
304 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the discussions his Department has had with Irish Rail, Greencore plc or the Department of Agriculture and Food regarding the possibility of providing rail freight subvention for the transport of sugar beet by rail to the Mallow factory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8036/05]
The responsibility for the development of rail freight rests with Iarnród Éireann, which has statutory responsibility for the allocation of resources to particular projects such as the one mentioned by the Deputy. I understand that Iarnród Éireann has been in discussion with interested parties to provide facilities for the transport of sugar beet. I have had no discussions with Iarnród Éireann, Greencore plc or the Department of Agriculture and Food on the matter.
305 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views in regard to correspondence (details supplied); the Government’s plans to address the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7565/05]
308 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his response to the request for funding from a group (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7772/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 305 and 308 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 176 of 2 March 2005. As indicated in that reply, it is intended that the group concerned will receive approximately €146,000 in support from my Department in 2005. At a recent meeting of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Arts, Sport, Tourism, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, I announced a range of measures to strengthen and support volunteering. These measures include a commitment to continue this level of funding to the group concerned for three years and to provide funding to the other volunteer bureaux that make up the Volunteer Centres Ireland network.
The measures that I am initiating include support on a pilot basis for three years, for the young social innovators initiative, which is to receive €200,000 per annum, and the DIT community learning programme, which is to receive €110,000 per annum. These measures are designed to promote and encourage volunteering among second and third level students respectively. I am also formalising the role of the existing network of local and community development groups in supporting volunteers and volunteering. To this end, €500,000 of local area partnership funding is being ring-fenced for measures that encourage volunteers and volunteering. As mentioned already, the existing volunteer bureaux, including the group referred to in the Deputy's question, which are members of Volunteer Centres Ireland will receive funding of €578,000 per annum for the next three years. In addition, I am making €50,000 per annum available for three years to enable Volunteer Centres Ireland to engage a development officer.
I am also ring-fencing €500,000 of the Department's cohesion fund for measures that will promote volunteers and volunteering locally. Under this arrangement, proposals will be co-ordinated by city and county development boards. I believe these measures will strengthen and promote volunteering and create the time and space to develop a comprehensive national policy in consultation with communities and players in the sector. I have no plans to provide additional funding to the group in question beyond the package I have outlined.
306 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the success or otherwise of the community application of information technology initiative; if a recommendation was received to put in place further such initiatives; his plans in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7802/05]
I refer the Deputy to the reply to Question No. 128 on 21 October 2003. Each year my Department provides education and training grants to community development projects. Some 185 community development projects are based in disadvantaged areas across the country. These projects run a range of courses, including IT training, geared towards enhancing the computer and Internet access skills of people living in disadvantaged areas. Equipment grants are also available to projects to enable them to purchase computers and equip their centres to run IT courses.
Area partnerships and community partnerships deliver the local development social inclusion programme at local level on behalf of my Department. The actions delivered at local level under the three sub-measures of the programme: services for the unemployed; community development; and community based youth initiatives, would include IT courses. Under the programme of grants for locally-based community and voluntary organisations, grants are available for the provision of IT training and equipment to community and voluntary organisations. In 2004, I approved grants in excess of €500,000 for these purposes to a wide variety of groups throughout the country. My Department is examining the possibility of facilitating projects to be funded under the information society fund regarding a number of specific initiatives for the promotion and facilitation of information and communications technology in communities.
307 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the work of the Irish Language Forum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7559/05]
The Deputy will be aware that the role of Fóram na Gaeilge is to advise me on: the advisability of preparing a 20-year strategic plan with realistic goals for the Irish language in the State; the short-term strategic priorities for the preservation and the promotion of the Irish language within the State; the priorities regarding the implementation of the Official Languages Act; and the best and most practical ways to achieve progress in the implementation of that work. Arising from this, it is hoped to have a more integrated approach among the main community and State organisations that promote the Irish language and a greater degree of co-ordination to their work.
Two meetings of Fóram na Gaeilge have taken place to date and a third is scheduled to take place later this month. As the Deputy is aware, I have already asked members to submit their views on the development of an Irish language plan and related short-term priority issues. A good response to this has been received from the members and officials of my Department are currently examining the various submissions.
309 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of funding made available under the emerging needs fund in 2005. [7773/05]
As the Deputy is aware, my Department has overall responsibility for co-ordinating the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008. It also has responsibility for the work of the 14 local drugs task forces, LDTFs, the ten regional drugs task forces and the young people's facilities and services fund. The role of the LDTFs is to prepare local action plans, which include a range of measures on treatment, rehabilitation, education, prevention and curbing local supply. In addition, the LDTFs provide a mechanism for the co-ordination of services in their areas, while at the same time allowing local communities and voluntary organisations to participate in the planning, design and delivery of those services.
The object of the emerging needs fund, which I announced in January last, is to afford the LDTFs an opportunity to identify gaps in service provision that are not being adequately addressed through existing measures being supported through their plans. As this is the first year of operation of the fund, the Deputy will appreciate that it is difficult to assess the level of demand and hence the overall level of funding that will be required for the fund. However, I am confident that the moneys required will be adequately met from within the overall allocation available to me for drugs programmes in 2005.
310 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the funding which will be made available in 2005 from his Department for the Leader groups in County Mayo; and the funding which has been allocated to the Mayo Leader groups to date. [7774/05]
Funds were allocated to Leader groups operating the Leader+ and area-based rural development initiatives in County Mayo for the period of the programme from 2000 to 2006 as follows:
|
Allocation |
Advances to 31/01/05 |
Remaining Budget |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Group — NRDP |
|||
|
Comhar Iorrais (LEADER) Teo. |
2,637,000 |
1,171,432 |
1,465,568 |
|
Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann — Mayo |
589,065 |
180,810 |
408,255 |
|
MFG — Mayo Gaeltacht |
318,800 |
202,050 |
116,750 |
|
South West Mayo Development Co. |
3,206,000 |
1,557,371 |
1,648,629 |
|
Western Rural Development Co. |
876,288 |
465,098 |
411,190 |
|
Group — LEADER+ |
|||
|
Western Rural Development Co. |
2,826,096 |
1,209,016* |
1,617,080 |
|
Total |
10,453,249 |
4,785,777 |
5,667,472 |
*Advances to 31/10/05.
311 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position in regard to the proposal to decentralise his Department to Knock Airport, County Mayo; the number of personnel relocated to date; the number of personnel to be transferred; if any timetable has been set for the transfer; if it is envisaged that the relocation will be completed by 2007 as proposed in the original announcement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7820/05]
My Department is committed to the decentralisation process being completed by 2007. This timescale is dependent on the Office of Public Works encountering no undue delays in the planning and building processes. Generally, the process of decentralisation is guided by the decentralisation implementation group.
The following steps have been taken by my Department. A dedicated decentralisation unit was set up to manage the programme. A departmental decentralisation committee made up of senior management and staff has been established to steer the decentralisation process within the Department. A liaison officer has been appointed to facilitate communication between the Department of Finance and my Department. Special meetings of my Department's partnership committee are held to specifically address issues arising from decentralisation and use is made of such meetings to ensure that staff are kept informed on all aspects of the decentralisation process. Regular communication takes place between my Department and staff associations through the departmental council process. The most up to date information available on decentralisation and all documentation relating to the issue are made available on the public folders of my Department's e-mail system. An information pack that includes a wide range of information on decentralisation areas relating to my Department's remit has been prepared and distributed to staff. Work is in hand on the establishment of systems for job analysis and process mapping for each function within my Department to facilitate effective transfers of staff in the future. A revised decentralisation implementation plan is now being prepared for submission to the decentralisation implementation group. Names of serving staff transferring with my Department to Knock Airport, as well as those who have opted to transfer to other decentralised locations, have now been made available by the Public Appointments Service.
The number of posts transferring to Knock is 164 and the latest information received from the central applications facility, CAF, indicates that 157 applicants from general Civil Service grades have applied to transfer to Knock Airport.In addition, nine other Civil Service grades and ten other public servants have applied. No staff member has as yet been transferred to Knock Airport.
312 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when funding will be sanctioned for the €1.648 million package of works required on Dooncarton Mountain, Glengad, Pullathomas, north Mayo, to provide kinetic barriers, drainage and other works required to protect the livelihoods of the residents in the area. [7835/05]
I refer the Deputy to my replies to previous questions on this matter, in particular Question No. 214 of 11 November 2004 in which I pointed out that lead responsibility in this instance lies with my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. As the Deputy is aware, my Department has played an active role, within the framework of its own remit, in the process of dealing with the effects of the landslides of September 2003 and was represented on the Pullathomas implementation working group. In the context of Pullathomas being a designated Gaeltacht area, my Department has made a total of €148,115 in funding available to date for repair works to the graveyard, walls and roads in the area.
I have noted the contents of the final report of the working group, which outlines protective works required at an estimated cost of €1.685 million. While my Department remains willing to assist in every way possible with the completion of any remaining works necessary as result of the landslides, I have already explained to the Deputy that limited funding is available for capital projects under the Gaeltacht improvement schemes. This funding is allocated to diverse projects across all Gaeltacht areas, including strategic Gaeltacht roads, access roads, bog roads, village renewal, strategic Gaeltacht piers, and community and leisure facilities.
313 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7928/05]
My private office has a staff of 11, eight of whom are civil servants, and my constituency office has a staff of four, three of whom are civil servants. The annual payments for salaries and expenses for staff in 2004 are as follows:
|
Office |
Salary |
Expenses |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Private office |
409,688 |
19,274 |
|
Constituency office |
127,954 |
311 |
314 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will review the application for assistance under the heading of force majeure in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7478/05]
The persons named have been notified that the circumstances outlined by them do not satisfy the criteria for force majeure or exceptional circumstance under Article 40 of Council Regulation (EC) No. 1782/2003. The persons named have been advised that they can appeal my Department’s decision to the independent single payment appeals committee if they wish to have a full review of the circumstances outlined.
315 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the situation regarding the suckler quota of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7500/05]
The person named is a participant in the early retirement scheme for farmers since 1997 and has leased out his suckler cow quota for the past eight years. Under the quota regime rules, farmers who were not participating in the early retirement scheme were only permitted to lease out their quota for a maximum of three years. Following the three-year period they were obliged to use it or sell it otherwise it would have been lost to the national reserve. While the person named had the option of selling his quota at anytime during the past eight years, he chose to continue leasing it instead.
Following the introduction of the single payment scheme from 1 January 2005, all livestock premia and arable aid schemes are fully decoupled from production as and from that date. Accordingly, the quota regime in respect of the livestock premia schemes ceased to be in existence from 31 December 2004. Consequently, quotas including individual suckler cow and ewe premium quotas no longer exist for any farmer, including the person named, after that date and will not be required to ensure payment of the single payment scheme in the future.
316 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding the appeal on force majeure special circumstances in regard to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [7538/05]
The person named has been notified that the circumstances outlined by him did not satisfy the criteria for force majeure or exceptional circumstances under Article 40 of Council Regulation (EC) No. 1782/2003. Following this decision, the person named submitted an appeal to the independent single payment appeals committee. A full review of the circumstances of the case will be carried out by the committee and the person named will be notified shortly of the outcome.
317 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will give advice or help to a person (details supplied) in County Cork to find a way of importing breeding stock, both male and female, to this country from the UK; her views on whether there is a sizable import of goat’s milk to this country; if it is the Government’s wish to see diversification in rural Ireland; the reason it is so easy to carry horses on ferries both in and out of the country, and yet a small car trailer full of goats cannot be carried; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7543/05]
The movement of livestock between member states of the European Union is governed inter alia by Council Directive 91/628/EEC. This directive obliges member states to ensure that livestock are not transported in a manner that compromises their health or welfare. My Department has, over a period of time, introduced comprehensive national legislation to ensure this requirement is respected in regard to the transport of animals from Ireland.
The question of whether a ferry company is approved to transport animals from another member state into this country is a matter for the competent authority in the member state of origin. There is no legal obligation on ferry operators to carry livestock. Ferry companies operate on a commercial basis and it is a matter for operators to decide if they want to carry livestock and which categories they will carry.
Statistics on imports of goat's milk are not maintained centrally by my Department or in a manner to reply to the Deputy's question. The Government supports the idea of diversification both on-farm and off-farm in rural Ireland.
318 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a decision will be made for a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary regarding payment entitlement for the 2005 national reserve. [7555/05]
An application form to the national reserve was 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 and, in view of the number of applications received and accompanying documentation submitted, it will be some time before processing is completed. The Deputy will appreciate, therefore, that it is not possible to indicate at this stage whether the person named will qualify for an allocation of entitlements from the reserve on foot of the application submitted.
Applicants will be notified of their eligibility or otherwise as soon as all applications are processed.
319 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she envisages a reduction of staff within her Department as a result of the introduction of a single payment for farmers and the resulting reduction in the amount of paperwork and so on that will need to be done by her Department. [7686/05]
The reorganisation of my Department arising from the implementation of the single payment scheme will, in the future, result in a major rebalancing of work and there will be an inevitable requirement for a reduction in overall staff numbers working in departmental offices around the country. It is not possible at this stage to predict accurately all the changes both in terms of numbers and organisation that will result from the changeover to the single payment scheme. I have, however, established a number of steering groups in my Department to examine the different and complex issues involved and these groups will continue to plan and monitor the situation throughout the changeover. Officials of my Department are in discussion with the relevant trade unions and staff associations on this issue.
320 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason there is a reduction in the amount of beef premium to be granted in 2005; and the level of cutback envisaged. [7687/05]
Under the special beef premium scheme, Ireland has a regional quota of 1,077,458 animals. Animals which are counted towards this quota are those submitted under the first age and bull category. While there is no quota for second age animals, where the regional quota in respect of first age and bull category is exceeded the level of reduction must also be applied to second age animals.
Given the ending of the scheme on 31 December 2004 with the advent of the single payment scheme on 1 January 2005, farmers availed of their final opportunity to submit animals for premium. Including those animals submitted for premium during the period for receipt of late applications, which finished on 25 January 2005, a total of 1.388 million animals were submitted under the first age and bull category.
It is expected, however, that the number of quota animals found eligible for premium and that must, therefore, be included in the calculation of the breach of quota, will be less than this figure. It is evident that many farmers applied in respect of animals which were ineligible, while others will exceed the stocking density limit and will not be paid for the animals in excess of this limit.
Following discussions with the farming bodies in late 2003, it was decided that any overshoot reduction would not apply to the first 25 animals submitted by individual farmers. This means that any farmer who applied in respect of 25 animals or less would not suffer any reduction and that all others farmers will be exempt in respect of their first 25 animals from any reduction.
In excess of 2.407 million animals were submitted for premium under the 2004 scheme, with in excess of 920,000 being applied upon during December alone. Processing of these applications is ongoing with a view to establishing the exact quota position as soon as possible.
321 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if EU directives (details supplied) were addressed in regard to the proposed closure of the Carlow sugar factory; if not, if she will address the problem with the company; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7749/05]
The EU directives referred to concern issues of labour law which is the responsibility of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The directives are not the responsibility of my Department.
322 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the details of the formal submission made to the European Commission in regard to a request (details supplied) from the Commission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7750/05]
323 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the principal comparative results of a study (details supplied) as far as the sugar industry here is concerned; the Government’s views on the study; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7751/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 322 and 323 together.
The document referenced, COM (2003) 554 final, is a communication, dated 23 September 2003, from the Commission to the Council and European Parliament entitled "Accomplishing a sustainable agricultural model for Europe through the reformed CAP — the tobacco, olive oil, cotton and sugar sectors". It was transmitted to the Council on 29 September 2003, accompanied by a Commission staff working paper entitled "Reforming the European Union's sugar policy — Summary of impact assessment work". I presume this impact assessment work is the study signalled in the Commission's reply to a member of the European Parliament on 12 November 2002. Both documents are available on the Commission's website.
Member states were not requested to make formal submissions to the Commission in the context of the communication or the impact assessment. The impact assessment shows that Ireland is one of a group of countries vulnerable to price reductions for sugar and sugar beet. While I have no difficulty with this assessment, I have serious reservations about the Commission's initial ideas for reform of the sugar regime as outlined in its communication of July 2004. The Commission's formal legislative proposals for reform of the sugar sector are not expected until next June. When these proposals come before the Council of Ministers, my priority will be to ensure that the future shape of the EU sugar regime will be consistent with the continuance of an efficient sugar beet growing and processing industry in this country.
324 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will make provision in forthcoming legislation being introduced to give effect to EU Directive 2004/18 for suitably qualified persons, such as pharmacists and licensed merchants, in addition to vets, to be allowed write prescriptions for routine husbandry management drugs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7777/05]
I assume the Deputy is referring to Directive 2004/28. I should make clear that a package of changes, the principles of which were announced by my predecessor a year ago, are not designed to implement this directive in Ireland. Rather, they are designed to address a number of issues and problems identified with the existing national regime. In particular they serve to make the prescribing regime more workable and effective and to extend the range of outlets which may supply on foot of a prescription.
Implementation of Directive 2004/28 will involve a number of changes in national legislation and procedures, many of which are designed to improve the availability of veterinary treatments. Preliminary work on this transposition exercise has begun in my Department. This exercise also involves liaison with the Irish Medicines Board and, in due course, consultation with other stakeholders.
In the meantime, a number of aspects relating to implementation of the directive remain to be fully resolved at EU level, including whether certain categories of medicines will be exempted from the mandatory prescription requirement. The deadline for completion of this latter exercise is 1 January 2007 and, in the interim, existing national distribution routes, which include provision for the availability of products "off-prescription", will remain in place. It is premature to address the issue of extending the categories of those who would be allowed to issue prescriptions for routine husbandry management drugs until these other issues are resolved at EU level.
325 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the progress in regard to a submission from a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny regarding the milk restructuring scheme and issues raised in regard to certain Glanbia suppliers; her plans in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7783/05]
In December 2004, I announced a milk quota restructuring programme which will comprise separate restructuring schemes for 2005 and 2006. In arriving at my decision for the programme, account was taken of the wide range of views expressed by the representative organisations and other interested parties including the named person's group.
The detailed rules concerning the 2005 scheme will be published before the end of this month. Registered milk purchasers will remain as the primary implementation entities for the forthcoming scheme. The milk quota regulations impose obligations on entities registered as milk purchasers as well as powers of removal where these are not satisfied. My Department will consider current registrations in this context.
326 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 392 of 15 February 2005, if a decision has been made in the case and if notification will be issued shortly. [7914/05]
The person named, having been notified that the circumstances outlined by him did not satisfy the criteria for force majeure or exceptional circumstances under Article 40 of Council Regulation (EC) No. 1782/2003, submitted an appeal to the independent single payment appeals committee. Following a full examination of the circumstances outlined in the appeal, the committee made a recommendation and a letter issued to the person named on 4 March 2005. The findings of the committee were that the original decision taken by my Department should be upheld.
327 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of persons employed in her private office and her constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7929/05]
The following table provides the breakdown of the numbers employed in my private and constituency offices.
|
Grade |
Number of posts |
Salary scale |
|
Special adviser |
1 |
€55,057-€68, 651 — assistant principal officer standard salary scale + 10% allowance |
|
Private secretary |
1 |
€39,035-€49,529 — higher executive officer standard scale + €17,389 annual allowance |
|
Personal assistant |
1 |
€41,389-€51,192 — higher executive officer higher scale |
|
Personal secretary |
1 |
€19,499-€37,621 — secretarial assistant salary scale + 10% higher duty allowance |
|
Executive officers |
2 |
€25,704-€40,669 — executive officer standard scale. |
|
Clerical officers |
10 |
€19,493- €33,274 — clerical officer scale. |
|
Total |
16 |
The total amount of expenses since 30 September 2004 in respect of staff in my private office is €1,529. There were no expenses in respect of my constituency office.
328 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the access to and availability of sugar beet quota for a new entrant to the sugar processing industry in this country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8037/05]
Under the EU sugar regime, each member state has a quota for manufactured sugar. There is no quota for sugar beet. The EU regulations stipulate that the quota must be made available to the sugar manufacturing enterprises in the member state. Accordingly, in Ireland the entire sugar quota is processed by Irish Sugar Limited, which is the only sugar manufacturer in this country.
Under the EU regulations a member state may reduce the "A" and "B" quotas of each sugar manufacturing enterprise by not more than 10% of the "A" quota or the "B" quota as the case may be. The effect of this limitation is that a new entrant to the sugar processing industry in this country could be assigned no more than 10% of the Irish sugar quota.
329 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food, in view of the reform of the sugar regime and probable reduction in Irish sugar quota, if it is Greencore, the State or the sugar beet growers who will receive the proposed compensation payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8038/05]
The Commission has not yet produced legislative proposals for reform of the EU sugar regime. However, the Commission's communication of last July, addressed to the Council and the European Parliament, envisages reductions in prices and quotas and partial compensation for beet growers for the proposed reduction in the minimum price of sugar beet. Such compensation would be in the form of decoupled direct payments to be incorporated in the single farm payment. Compensation is not proposed, in the Commission's communication, in respect of quota reduction.
330 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which he perceives the development of child care financial support or other facilities in the future in view of the economic necessity for both parents to work outside the home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7766/05]
This Government remains firmly committed to supporting working parents with their child care needs through increased capacity, choice and service quality. These aims are the hallmark of the Government's child care strategy. To this end considerable progress has already been achieved in terms of increasing the supply of centre based child care places and in enhancing the awareness of quality issues among childminders while affording financial support towards the costs of child rearing through child benefit which has increased very significantly over the past seven years.
The Deputy will be aware that there have been significant improvements in the provision of supports for the development of child care over the last number of years. Child care was identified as an investment priority under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. This was a direct response to the recommendations of the expert working group on child care established under Partnership 2000 to develop a strategy for the development and delivery of child care to support parents in employment, education and training.
The current equal opportunities child care programme, a seven-year programme, has an equal opportunities and social inclusion perspective and facilitates the further development and expansion of child care facilities to address the needs of parents, in reconciling their child care needs with their participation in employment, education and training. It aims to increase the supply of centre based child care places by 55% by the end of the programme.
The programme also has a focus on many of the quality issues which were identified in the child care strategy and aims to ensure that there is a co-ordinated approach to the delivery of child care services throughout the country. Since it was launched in 2000, the funding for the programme for the 2000-2006 period has increased from €317 million to €499.3 million or by 57%, the most recent increase being €50 million in budget 2005. The multi-annual capital envelopes announced that day also included the injection of a further €40 million in additional capital funding into child care between the end of the programme and 2009.
It is expected that the total funding committed under the programme to date will lead to the creation of 33,946 new child care places and will support another 29,556 existing places. Of the new child care places being created, 20,500 places were already in place by June 2004, an increase of 36% in the supply of child care places in four short years. These new places offer parents greater access to child care throughout the country as they balance their work and family needs.
As I mentioned previously, child benefit is the main fiscal instrument through which support is provided to parents with dependent children, and this support is provided to all parents irrespective of income and employment status. In his budget 2005 statement, the Minister for Finance announced further increases of €10 per month to €141.60 per month for the first two children and €12 per month to €177.30 per month for third and subsequent child from April 2005. This means that over the period since 1997, monthly child benefit has almost quadrupled. This level of increase is unprecedented and delivers on the Government's objective of providing support for children generally while offering real choice to all parents in relation to the care of their children. One of the main advantages of this approach is that, whereas tax relief would be of little or no benefit to those with low incomes, the provision of support for parents through the child benefit route means equality of treatment for all recipients.
Further measures on child care are being provided by the Government in a range of different ways and I outline a number of examples for the Deputy's information as follows. In 2001, the Department of Finance allocated €12.7 million capital expenditure for the provision of up to 15 Civil Service crèches for the children of Government employees. Five crèches are in operation and a further crèche opened in January 2005. Proposals for additional creches are being considered. In March 2001, the IDA launched a scheme to provide for the creation of high quality, workplace child care facilities in IDA Ireland business parks around the country. Four of these have opened, with another under construction and a sixth at contract stage. Since the start of 2002, the city and county enterprise boards have approved funding of over €1.6 million to 153 child care centres across the country. This funding comprises mainly staffing grants, with a small number of capital grants available. Capital allowances for capital expenditure on the construction, extension and refurbishment of a building, which is used for the purpose of providing a pre-school service or similar service, and there is also an exemption on the usual benefit-in-kind provisions for employees who enjoy free or subsidised child care facilities provided by their employers. In such circumstances, the employer must be wholly or partly responsible for both financing and managing the child care facility.
As can be seen, this Government's record in providing enhanced child care supports is without parallel and I am confident that we are moving rapidly to ensure that there are quality services available to parents throughout the country.
331 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the transfer of sections of the Department to Tipperary town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7788/05]
I refer the Deputy to my response to Question No. 309 of 1 March 2005.
As outlined in the response, an implementation plan in respect of the decentralisation of the immigration and asylum sections of my Department was prepared last year and submitted to the decentralisation implementation group. A copy of the report is available on my Department's website.
Progress has been made with regard to property solutions to fulfil the accommodation brief for the staff decentralising to Tipperary. A number of sites have been shortlisted and the process of evaluation of these sites by the Office of Public Works is at an advanced stage.
332 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if urgent assistance will be given to a person (details supplied) in their application for a visa; and this case will be given priority. [7483/05]
The Deputy has not supplied a visa application reference number, nor has an examination of visa applications on hand yielded a visa application by a person of the same name as supplied by the Deputy. Therefore, it would appear that my Department has not received an application in respect of this person to date.
Each application is assessed individually based on its own merits, and until such time as an application is made and can be examined in detail by my Department, I will not be in a position to comment on the specifics of this case.
333 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to the number of gardaí policing the Laragh, Glendalough and Sallygap areas of County Wicklow; the number of gardaí in these areas; if the number will be increased in view of the number of house robberies committed in daylight hours in the area, the number of joyriders and the number of cars that have been ransacked while their owners are walking in the countryside; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7488/05]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda resources, including personnel, that the Laragh, Glendalough and Sallygap areas of County Wicklow are policed by gardaí attached to Rathdrum and Roundwood Garda stations.
The personnel strength of Rathdrum Garda station as at 8 March 2005 is four — all ranks. The personnel strength of Roundwood Garda station as at 8 March 2005 is four — all ranks. There is a marked patrol vehicle attached to both Rathdrum and Roundwood Garda stations.
There were 66 thefts from cars in the 12-month period ending 28 February 2004 and the same number of such thefts for the following 12-month period. Theft of cars rose from 12 to 18 for the comparative period.
Local Garda management are satisfied that the best use of available resources at Rathdrum and Roundwood Garda stations are and will continue to be made. Garda management will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in the Roundwood and Rathdrum areas with a view to ensuring an effective Garda service is maintained.
In relation to Garda resources generally, I am very pleased that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with the commitment in this regard in An Agreed Programme for Government. This is a key commitment in the programme for Government, and its implementation will significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the force.
The commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of Roundwood and Rathdrum Garda stations will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country. Clearly, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies in particular areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities as well, such as the need to very significantly increase the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda traffic corps. I have already promised that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into frontline, operational, high-visibility policing. They will have a real impact.
334 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress regarding a citizenship application for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7510/05]
A declaration of acceptance of Irish citizenship as post nuptial citizenship was received in the citizenship section of my Department on 6 December 2004 from the person referred to in the Deputy's question.
The current processing time for such declarations is approximately ten months from the date of lodgement and it is likely, therefore, that the processing of the declaration of the person concerned will be finalised by October 2005. I will advise the Deputy and the applicant when the matter has been concluded.
335 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedures that have been put in place and the documentation that will be provided to non-national parents of Irish children who have been granted residency in order that they can access social welfare entitlements, housing support and the right to employment, particularly those who have been resident in direct provision; and if confirmation of their status will be provided at the same time as notification that they have been granted residency. [7513/05]
Under the revised arrangements for the consideration of applications for permission to remain by the non-national parents of Irish-born children, born before 1 January 2005, successful applicants will be issued with a letter confirming permission to remain for an initial period of two years subject to the following conditions: that they will obey the laws of the State and will not become involved in criminal activity; that they will make every effort to become economically viable in the State by engaging in employment, business or a profession; that they will take steps, such as appropriate participation in training or language courses, to enable them to engage in employment; and that they accept that the granting of permission to remain does not confer any entitlement or legitimate expectation on any person, whether related to them or not, to enter the State.
The successful applicant is required to present this letter to their local Garda registration office, where he or she will be presented with a certificate of registration in the form of a plastic card. This card indicates that he or she has the Minister's permission to remain in the State; the date to which this permission is valid; and that he or she has permission to work.
The granting of permission to remain does not confer an entitlement to State services such as social welfare and housing support. Access to such entitlements is a matter for the relevant service provider.
The Reception and Integration Agency, RIA, is responsible, inter alia, for the accommodation of asylum seekers through the system of direct provision and dispersal. Where an asylum seeker accommodated in direct provision is granted permission to remain in the country the RIA will assist him or her to apply to the local authority, in whose area he or she proposes to access accommodation, for assessment of housing need. If the local authority is not in a position to meet the housing need, he or she may then apply to the community welfare officer in that area for a rent supplement.
336 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a school (details supplied) in County Kerry was refused a grant under the equal opportunities child care programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7540/05]
I understand that an application for capital grant assistance under the equal opportunities child care programme, EOCP, 2000-2006 was submitted by the group to my Department some time ago. The EOCP is a seven-year development programme which aims to increase the availability and quality of child care to support parents in employment, education and training. The level of demand for capital grant assistance was such that I considered it important to increase the capital provision for the present programme. Following discussions with my colleague, the Minister for Finance, an additional capital provision of €90 million was made available over the period 2005-2009, in the context of the 2005 budget.
Of this amount, €50 million is being made available under the present programme and the remaining €40 million will flow under the next phase of the post 2006 EOCP. This augments the increased EU funding of some €12 million made available last year in recognition of the progress of the programme. This brings the total funding available for the programme to €499.3 million and now includes an increased provision for capital developments for which €205 million has been set aside. Since budget 2005, I have announced a record allocation totalling almost €68 million in capital funding to community-based, not for profit groups, in two tranches, one in December 2004 and another on 4 March 2005.
The availability of the additional capital funding will enable me to make further capital grant assistance available to groups which address significant child care service gaps and where the project proposal represents good value for money when considered in relation to the current guidelines on building costs. In the light of this, the group in question was advised in December 2004 that, while their project had not been prioritised for immediate funding at that stage, it will be reconsidered in the future. I hope to make further significant capital commitments during the remainder of 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, with an emphasis on filling child care service gaps at local level and obtaining good value from capital being invested. When the assessment on the project in question is completed, the application will then be considered by the programme appraisal committee, PAC, chaired by my Department, before I make a final decision. In the interim, it would be premature of me to comment further on this application.
337 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the spouse of an Irish citizen (details supplied) in County Tipperary and mother of three Irish citizens has been told that she must leave the country by the 21 March 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7545/05]
The person in question, as a non-EEA national, is subject to the immigration laws of the State despite being the spouse of an Irish citizen. I understand she applied for a visa for the stated purpose of a visit to the State and that a visit visa was approved. A visit visa permits the holder to travel to the State and, subject to the discretion of an immigration officer, to remain in the State for a maximum period of 90 days on such visit. I also understand that she was granted a period of one month to remain to facilitate her stated purpose of journey to the State, that is, a visit. It is open to the person concerned to apply to my Department for an extension of her permission to remain.
338 Mr. Glennon asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has had discussions with the Garda Commissioner in relation to changing the boundaries of divisional geographical areas under the control of a chief superintendent; the divisional areas which would be affected by these changes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7560/05]
A study group under the chairmanship of the assistant commissioner, northern region has been established to examine various issues associated with possible new boundary alignments in the Cavan-Monaghan and Louth-Meath divisions. The study group is in the preliminary stages of its work and has, to date, only looked at various possibilities to facilitate the establishment of a consultative study group. There are currently no immediate proposals to review the existing divisional boundaries of the remaining divisions.
339 Mr. Glennon asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the geographical area of Fingal with a population of 196,413 persons now warrants the setting up of a Garda division for Fingal, under the control of a chief superintendent, to ensure a co-ordinated approach to policing in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7561/05]
The Fingal County Council area, traditionally referred to as north County Dublin, encompasses parts of the Garda divisions of the Dublin metropolitan regions north and west and the southern part of the Louth-Meath Garda division. Garda management are of the opinion that the effective delivery of a police service to these areas is not in any way impeded or diminished by the present Garda Síochána administrative structures. There are no proposals to review the existing divisional boundaries that cover the Fingal County Council area.
340 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will locate a Garda sub-station in the Raheen and Dooradoyle area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7563/05]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda resources, including personnel, that the Raheen-Dooradoyle areas of Limerick are policed by Roxboro Road Garda station. The personnel strength of Roxboro Road Garda station as at 7 March 2005 was 87 — all ranks.
I am further informed by the Garda authorities that they have no plans at present to locate a Garda station in the Raheen-Dooradoyle area. In their view, the opening of a new Garda station would be incompatible with contemporary policing policy and would only serve to confine more personnel to indoor administrative duties who may be utilised more effectively on outdoor patrols. Local Garda management is satisfied that the resources in place in Roxboro Road Garda station are adequate to meet the present policing needs of the area.
341 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the disturbances or trouble or serious threats to safety being made against persons (details supplied) in Dublin 17; the action which has been taken; and the action which will now be taken to deal with this behaviour in view of actual knowledge arising; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7572/05]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that three incidents of public disorder have been reported since September 2004 in the area in question. A court date is awaited in respect of one incident and a further two incidents involving a juvenile are being dealt with under the juvenile liaison scheme.
I understand from the Garda authorities that gardaí at Santry Garda station patrol the area in question and that community police, who have an excellent rapport with the local community, are assigned to the area. Also, additional supporting patrols are provided by divisional units and the detective branch.
Current policing plans in the area have as their goals the prevention of anti-social and public order offences, the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. Patrols are directed to pay particular attention to residential areas where local youths tend to congregate. I understand that this strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a policing service to the area in question.
342 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a dealing will be completed for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in the Land Registry. [7576/05]
I have been informed by the Registrar of Titles that an application for transfer of part and amalgamation was lodged in this case on 13 July 2004 and that dealing number D2004SM005635A refers. I have been further informed that the application is associated with dealing number D2000SM001443C, which was lodged on 24 February 2000. I have also been informed that there is an outstanding query in respect of the latter application. Both applications will be completed by the Land Registry as soon as possible, on receipt of a satisfactory reply to the query.
343 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number and details of the Garda inquiries established to inquire into allegations of Garda misconduct in the Donegal division which gave rise to the establishment of the Morris tribunal; and the cost of each such inquiry. [7583/05]
The Garda authorities are compiling the information sought by the Deputy. I will give the Deputy the fullest available details as soon as possible.
344 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will approve the application by a group in (details supplied) in County Louth for funding to provide a desperately needed child care facility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7587/05]
On 4 March last, I approved capital grant assistance of €1.1 million under the equal opportunities child care programme in respect of an application from the group in question, subject to its satisfactory compliance with a number of conditions in respect of the development and completion of the project. I understand that the Department's child care directorate advised the group of my decision. Area Development Management Limited has been engaged to administer the child care programme on behalf of the Department. ADM Limited will contact the group directly about the conclusion of the contractual agreement necessary to draw down the grant.
345 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when travel documentation will be returned to a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7673/05]
The person in question was granted refugee status in the State in January 2000. He was subsequently charged with and convicted of people trafficking offences in Belgium and served a prison sentence in that country for the offences. Due to the clear incompatibility between the man's people trafficking activities and his refugee status in the State, I decided to revoke his refugee status. The Department communicated that decision to him in a letter dated 18 February last. The letter was copied to his legal representatives, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the Irish Refugee Council on that date. As the process of revoking the man's refugee status has commenced, I do not propose to return any documentation to him until the process has been completed.
346 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has reached a decision in the application of a person (details supplied) for leave to remain here; if so, the decision he has reached; and if not, when he expects to reach a decision in this case. [7674/05]
The person in question and her three children arrived in the State and claimed asylum on 28 November 2001. The application and subsequent appeal were refused and the woman in question was notified of my decision to refuse refugee status in a letter dated 30 December 2002, in which she was informed of the three options open to her — to leave the State before the case was considered for deportation; to consent to the making of a deportation order in respect of her; and to make written representations within 15 working days to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform stating the reasons she should not be deported, that is, why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
The case was examined under section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, which relates to the prohibition of refoulement. All representations received on behalf of the people in question were considered. Deportation orders were made in respect of these persons on 11 February 2005 and were served on them by registered post. They are due to present themselves as requested to the Garda national immigration bureau on Thursday, 10 March 2005, when arrangements will be made for their removal from the State. The enforcement of the deportation orders is a matter for the Garda national immigration bureau.
347 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when funding will be provided to a playgroup (details supplied) in County Mayo under the equal opportunities childcare programme 2000-2006; and when this group applied for funding. [7675/05]
I understand that an application for capital grant assistance under the equal opportunities child care programme was submitted by the group in question to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform in March 2004. The child care 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. The Deputy may be aware that the group in question has received staffing grant assistance of over €51,000 from the programme.
The level of demand for capital grant assistance was such that I considered it important to increase the capital provision for the present programme. Following discussions with the Minister for Finance, an additional capital provision of €90 million was made for the period between 2005 and 2009, in the context of the 2005 budget. Some €50 million is being made available under the present programme and €40 million will be made available under the next phase of programme after 2006, in addition to the increased EU funding of €12 million made available last year in recognition of the progress of the programme. This 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. Since budget 2005, I announced a record allocation of almost €68 million in capital funding to community-based not for profit groups in two tranches, in December 2004 and on 4 March 2005.
The availability of additional capital funding will allow me to make further capital grant assistance available to groups which address significant child care service gaps, if the project proposal represents good value for money when considered in the context of current guidelines on building costs. The group in question was advised in December 2004 that while its project had not been prioritised for immediate funding at that stage, it will be reconsidered in the future. I hope to make further significant capital commitments during the rest of 2005 and thereafter.
The ongoing assessment of the applications in the pipeline will be concluded as quickly 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 has been completed, the application will be considered by the programme appraisal committee, chaired by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, before I make a final decision. In the interim, it would be premature of me to comment further on the application.
348 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will rescind the decision made regarding a visa for a person (details supplied) in view of all the documentation submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7727/05]
The application referred to by the Deputy was refused by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform at an initial stage on 11 January 2005. An appeal in respect of the application was subsequently received and examined by the visa appeals officer who was unable to conclude based on the additional evidence supplied that the initial decision should be overturned. At both stages it was noted that in the letter received from the spouse of the applicant, he stated that applications for family reunification residency visas were submitted and refused on two previous occasions. Such a history of applying for long-term visas would have been considered in the decision to refuse the appeal on an application purportedly for a short-term visa. As the application has been re-examined on appeal, it is not possible to facilitate a further review.
349 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will rescind the decision made regarding a visa for a person (details supplied) in view of all the documentation submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7728/05]
The visa application in question, which was requested for the stated purpose of a short visit, was refused by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform on 5 January 2005 because it was considered that the applicant had not shown any obligation to return home after the proposed visit and that she may not observe the conditions of the short visit visa for which she applied. It was noted that she had previously been refused a visa for the purpose of entering and residing in the State. An appeal in respect of the application was subsequently received and examined by the visa appeals officer who was unable to conclude, based on the additional evidence supplied, that the initial decision should be overturned. As the application has been re-examined on appeal, it is not possible to facilitate a further review.
350 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the large number of break-ins and robberies in pharmacies on the north side of Dublin in recent months; if he will list the number of such offences in each Garda district for each month over the past two years for the Dublin metropolitan area; the main types of offences committed; the steps he intends to take to tackle such offences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7778/05]
I regret I have been informed by the Garda authorities that it has not been possible in the time available to obtain the information requested by the Deputy. I will contact him as soon as the details are available.
351 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of cases relating to any aspect of immigration that are before the courts at the present time; the category into which each case falls; the average length of time that each case is before the courts; if immigration related cases are creating a problem for the operation of any court; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7779/05]
It has not been possible to compile the information requested by the Deputy in the time available. The information sought is being compiled at present and I will forward it to the Deputy as soon as it is available.
352 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will allow a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 to remain here. [7790/05]
The person in question arrived in the State and claimed asylum on 26 November 2002. Her application and subsequent appeal was refused and she was notified my decision to refuse refugee status to her in a letter of 29 April 2004, in which she was informed of the three options open to her at that point — to leave the State before her case was considered for deportation; to consent to the making of a deportation order in respect of her; or to make written representations within 15 working days to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform setting out reasons she should not be deported, that is, why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
Her case was examined under section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, which relates to the prohibition of refoulement, including consideration of all representations received on her behalf. A deportation order was made in respect of the person on 25 January 2005. The order was served on her by registered post and she was asked to present herself to the Garda national immigration bureau on Thursday, 3 March 2005. She is due to present again on 8 March 2005. The enforcement of the deportation order is a matter for the Garda national immigration bureau.
353 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there is any role for the Garda in a dispute between neighbours on noise pollution and the advice on this difficult situation between residents. [7794/05]
Legislation relating to noise pollution is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Cullen. The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has issued a leaflet, A Guide to the Noise Regulations, which outlines the steps to be taken when a person experiences nuisance caused by noise. While it is primarily a civil matter and is therefore outside the remit of the Garda, when the Garda receives a complaint about neighbours causing noise, it can request them to lower the noise levels. The powers of the Garda in this regard relate to ensuring that a breach of the peace does not occur. Complainants may be advised by the Garda of their civil entitlements under section 108 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992, which was enacted to make further and better provision for the protection of the environment and the control of pollution and to establish the Environmental Protection Agency.
A local authority, the Environmental Protection Agency or any person may complain to the District Court about any noise which is so loud, continuous, repeated and of such duration or pitch or occurring at such a time as to give reasonable cause for annoyance. The court may order the person or body making the noise to take the measures necessary to reduce the noise to a specified level or to take measures to limit or prevent the noise. An authorised person is entitled at all reasonable times to enter any premises for any purpose connected with the Act and to bring therein such other persons, including members of the Garda. An offence under the Act may be prosecuted summarily by the Environmental Protection Agency.
354 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has considered the case of persons (details supplied) for refugee status here; if he will re-examine the case as a matter of urgency; if arrangements will be made to verify the authenticity of the claims for refugee status from the persons involved. [7803/05]
The person in question, along with her husband and one of their children, arrived in the State and claimed asylum on 14 August 2000. Their applications were refused following consideration by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and later on appeal by the Office of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. They were notified of the refusal by letter on 26 September 2002 and given three options — to leave the State before their case was considered for deportation; to consent to the making of deportation orders in respect of them; or to make written representations within 15 working days to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform setting out the reasons they should not be deported, that is, why they should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
The case of the mother and son was examined under section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, which relates to the prohibition of refoulement, including consideration of all representations received on their behalf. Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 requires that I consider the safety of returning a person before a deportation order is made. This means that a person shall not be expelled from the State or returned in any manner to a State where, in my opinion, the life or freedom of the person is threatened on account of his or her race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion. I am satisfied that the requirement has been met in this case.
Deportation orders were made in respect of the mother and son on 9 November 2004. The orders were served by registered post and they presented themselves to the Garda national immigration bureau on Thursday, 10 February 2005. They are due to present again to the bureau on Thursday, 14 April 2005. The enforcement of the deportation orders is a matter for the Garda national immigration bureau. It appears from the information supplied by the Deputy that the family has been joined by a further child, who is female, since it first made its asylum application. A notice of intention to deport this person issued recently. The three options mentioned above have been afforded to her. If she fails to leave the State voluntarily with the other members of the family, who are the subject of deportation orders, her case will also be considered for deportation.
355 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has proposals to increase the jurisdiction of the District Court and Circuit Court in civil proceedings; and if so, the new limits proposed. [7804/05]
Sections 13 and 14 of the Courts and Court Officers Act 2002 provided for increases in the monetary and jurisdiction limits of the Circuit Court and District Court. The proposed limits are €100,000 for the Circuit Court and €20,000 for the District Court.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Personal Injuries Assessment Board, PIAB, was established in 2004. I will consider the commencement of sections 13 and 14 of the Act when sufficient time has elapsed to consider the impact the board has had on the compensation regime. A legal costs working group has been established to identify ways of reducing legal costs and I would also like to await its report before considering the matter further.
356 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is envisaged that the outsourcing of speed cameras will be confined to fixed cameras; if private operators will operate mobile cameras; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7805/05]
357 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the choice of location of speed cameras, whether fixed or mobile, will remain solely in the hands of the Garda Síochána; if the system of remuneration for the operating company will be structured in such a way as to prevent revenue raising considerations influencing the justice system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7806/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 356 and 357 together.
The Government's Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006 notes that traffic law enforcement in successful jurisdictions, such as Victoria in Australia, have benefited from the engagement of private sector interests for the operation of camera and other detection equipment. The strategy therefore proposes that the Garda Síochána will enter into arrangements for the engagement of the private sector for the purpose of the provision and operation of a nationwide programme for the detection of speeding offences.
As the Deputy will be aware, a working group on speed cameras chaired by my Department, and consisting of representatives of the Garda Síochána, the Department of Transport and the National Roads Authority, is examining how the provision, operation and processing of the output of speed cameras would operate.
A number of issues are being considered by the group, including the criteria for locations of speed camera checks and the financial structure of the project. As the road safety strategy makes clear, the overall performance criteria to be applied to the outsourced detection of speeding offences will be determined by the Garda Síochána and camera detection facilities will be used at locations where the Garda Síochána determines there is an established or prospective risk of collisions. It is not envisaged that there will be a linkage between revenue collected as fixed charges or court fines and payments to the outsourcer or outsourcers. The purpose of the programme will be to increase road safety and thereby reduce the numbers of deaths and injuries, not increase revenue.
On the mix of equipment to be provided and used by a private concern, it is envisaged that the emphasis will be on mobile camera devices rather than fixed sites which will facilitate a speedier and more flexible response towards monitoring locations of particular concern.
358 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Question No. 132 of 17 February 2005, the status of an application for a person (details supplied) in County Clare regarding that person’s status in the country. [7821/05]
The person in question has permission to remain in the State until 28 March 2005 and may, prior to the expiry of this period, present herself to her local immigration registration office to seek an extension of her permission to remain.
359 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations located in County Meath; the number of gardaí allocated to each of the Garda stations in each of the past five years; if he has plans to increase the allocation of gardaí to any of the Garda stations; if he proposed to introduce community policing throughout the county of Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7824/05]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the total number of Garda stations located in County Meath as at 7 March 2005 was 18. The personnel strength of each Garda station in County Meath as at 1 January in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005 and as at 7 March 2005 was as follows:
|
Station |
01/01/01 |
01/01/02 |
01/01/03 |
01/01/04 |
01/01/05 |
7/03/05 |
|
Laytown |
7 |
8 |
7 |
8 |
8 |
8 |
|
Duleek |
4 |
4 |
3 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
|
Slane |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
|
Navan |
45 |
45 |
47 |
49 |
46 |
45 |
|
Kells |
32 |
33 |
31 |
34 |
31 |
31 |
|
Athboy |
5 |
5 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
|
Crossakiel |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Nobber |
3 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
2 |
|
Oldcastle |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
|
Trim |
24 |
25 |
24 |
25 |
25 |
26 |
|
Enfield |
19 |
19 |
16 |
17 |
16 |
15 |
|
Ballivor |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
2 |
|
Summerhill |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Kilmessan |
1 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Longwood |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Ashbourne |
38 |
36 |
37 |
37 |
40 |
39 |
|
Dunshaughlin |
11 |
11 |
11 |
11 |
10 |
10 |
|
Dunboyne |
16 |
16 |
15 |
13 |
12 |
12 |
I am further informed that community policing is in operation in Navan and Ashbourne, County Meath, and that local Garda management has no immediate plans to extend community policing in the county.
On Garda resources generally, I am, of course, very pleased that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with the commitment in that regard in An Agreed Programme for Government. This is a key commitment in the programme for Government and its implementation will significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the force.
The commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of Garda stations in County Meath will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country. Clearly, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies, in particular, areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will also be possible to address other priorities, such as the need to increase very significantly the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda traffic corps. I have already promised that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into frontline, operational, high-visibility policing. They will have a real impact.
360 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has re-examined the case of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo for refugee status in Ireland; if he has examined independent observations submitted in respect of the process followed in arriving at a decision; his views on the seven points outlined in the independent assessment of the process; if he will further confirm the reason photostat copies of stamped documentation from South African police are not acceptable and if original documentation is required in all such circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7827/05]
As the Deputy may be aware, under the Refugee Act 1996, two independent statutory offices were established to consider applications or appeals for refugee status and make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted. These two offices are the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner, which considers applications for a declaration as a refugee at first instance, and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, which considers applications for a declaration at appeal stage.
The two persons concerned arrived in the State on 20 February 2003 and applied for asylum. Both applications were refused following consideration by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Given the statutory independence of the asylum process, I do not propose to comment on the details of these individual applications.
On the process subsequent to the asylum determination, I can say that in accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, the first named person was informed by letter dated 18 February 2005, and the second named person by letter dated 21 February 2005, that the Minister proposed to make deportation orders in respect of them. They were given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons they should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made; or consenting to the making of a deportation order.
The case files, including all representations submitted, will be considered under section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, pertaining to the prohibition of refoulement. I expect the files to be passed to me for decision in due course.
361 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received the report on the Garda review of the murder of a person (details supplied); if the report will be made public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7828/05]
I have not yet received a report on the full review of the Garda investigation file on the murder of the person in question, following from the submission of a memorandum from the legal representative of the family. When the review has been completed and when any ancillary issues are resolved and the report is received, I will be in further contact with the legal representative, as previously undertaken. The question of the publication of the findings of the review will fall to be considered when the report has been received.
362 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the legal status of bikes (details supplied); the powers of the gardaí to stop their use, confiscate them, sanction the users or their parents and impose penalties; and the action he intends to take regarding the problem. [7848/05]
The Road Traffic Act 1961 defines a mechanically propelled vehicle as a vehicle intended or adapted for propulsion by mechanical means. Quadricycles and motorcycles, including micro-motorcycles, come within this definition.
To use a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place, a range of requirements must be satisfied in respect of both the vehicle and the driver. Specifically, a mechanically propelled vehicle when in use in a public place must comply with the requirements of the Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles) Regulations 1963 to 2002 and the Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations 1963 to 1996, and the driver must have third party insurance cover in accordance with section 56 of the Road Traffic Act 1961. In addition, under section 38 of the Road Traffic Act 1961, a driving licence is required to drive a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place. The minimum age for holding a driving licence is 16 years for a moped and small motorcycles and 17 years for a quadricycle.
The Road Traffic Act 1994 (Section 41) Regulations 1995 — SI 89 of 1995 — provide for the detention of vehicles by the Garda Síochána for driving without a driving licence, insurance or motor tax. The penalties for breaches of the road traffic law in respect of the above mentioned requirements are a fine not exceeding €800 in the case of a first offence, a fine not exceeding €1,500 in the case of a second or subsequent offence, and a fine of €1,500 or a term of imprisonment not exceeding three months, or both, in the case of a third or subsequent offence in a period of 12 consecutive months. A person convicted of a breach of section 56 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 incurs five penalty points.
On the incidents to which the Deputy specifically referred, I am informed by the Garda authorities that prior to Christmas 2004 two of these replica motorcycles were seized from children by Sundrive Road gardaí and the parents of the children were advised of the activities. Around the same time, two further bikes were seized by gardaí from Crumlin under section 41 of the Road Traffic Act 1994. All members of the Garda Síochána fully enforce the legislation regarding the seizure, storage cost, release and disposal of these vehicles when they are observed in use in a public place.
363 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of child care centres, crèches and other child care facilities in County Kerry which are currently in receipt of funding from his Department or which would have received funding in any of the past five years; and the names and addresses of these facilities. [7850/05]
During the summer of 2004, my Department published a comprehensive review of progress under the equal opportunities childcare programme 2000-2006 entitled Developing Childcare In Ireland. This document was circulated to all Members of the Oireachtas and was also posted on the Department's website. Much of the information the Deputy is seeking concerning the period up to the end of 2003 is included in this report.
It is intended to update these statistics twice yearly. The first such update, which will cover the period up to end of 2004, is expected to become available over the coming months and will be posted on the Department's website and circulated to interested parties, including Members of the Oireachtas.
The overall position on County Kerry is that, to date, I have approved 123 grants totalling over €16.5 million in respect of capital, staffing and quality improvement projects across the county. It is anticipated that this funding will lead to the creation of 1,816 new child care places and will support a further 1,041 existing places. This funding includes over €7.8 million in capital grant assistance to 29 community-based, not for profit groups; over €6.7 million in staffing grant assistance to 59 community-based, not for profit projects; €752,531 in capital grant assistance for 22 private sector child care projects; and over €1.2 million to Kerry county child care committee. This funding is to enable them to carry out their day-to-day activities and to deliver on their respective action plans.
364 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position on an application for citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7851/05]
An application for naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of my Department on 11 June 2004. The average processing time for such applications is 24 months and it is likely, therefore, that the application of the individual concerned will be finalised in or around June 2006. I will inform both the applicant and the Deputy as soon as I have reached a decision on the application.
365 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position on a land registry application by a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7876/05]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application under section 49 — pertaining to the acquisition of a title by virtue of long possession — of the Registration of Title Act 1964, which was lodged on 8 March 2004. Dealing No. D2004WS002605V refers. I am further informed that this application was completed on 25 January 2005.
366 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7930/05]
The current staffing in my private and constituency office is as follows. In my private office, there is one special adviser, one higher executive officer, serving as a private secretary, two executive officers and one clerical officer. In the constituency office, there is one executive officer, one personal secretary, one personal assistant and three clerical officers. I also have shared access to the following support staff who handle correspondence tracking, parliamentary questions, the processing of ministerial decision files etc. — one executive officer and 3.5 clerical officers. The salary costs and expenses for 2004 for my private office were as follows: salary, including overtime, €476,681.65; expenses, comprising travel and subsistence costs, €5,384.31.
367 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will expedite applications to remain in the State on the basis of parentage of an Irish-born child to persons (details supplied); the expected timeframe within which such applications will be processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7939/05]
The persons concerned made an application for permission to remain in the State on the basis of their parentage of an Irish citizen child under the revised arrangements on 7 February 2005. Their applications were acknowledged on 22 February 2005.
I advise the Deputy that applications are being dealt with in order of receipt in so far as is possible and as expeditiously as possible. The revised arrangements were announced by me on 14 January 2005. By Friday last, 4 March 2005, a total of 11,758 applications for permission to remain under the revised arrangements had been received and some 2,400 applicants have been granted leave to remain. A significant number of incomplete applications are held pending the submission of identity documents or of additional information. Given the number of applications being processed, it will take several weeks before the processing of the applications from the persons concerned will be completed.
368 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the plans for further child care services in the five social inclusion task forces in Dublin, he will consider increasing the funding allocated to a group (details supplied) from €440,000 to €695,000 as requested. [8013/05]
My Department is responsible for the co-ordination of child care service delivery during the period of the National Development Plan 2000-2006. My Department established the equal opportunities child care programme in April 2000 to increase the number of child care facilities and places in Ireland, to improve the quality of child care services available and to put new structures in place for the co-ordination of activity in the development of child care. The total funding allocated to my Department for these purposes during the lifetime of the 2000-2006 programme has been increased to €499.3 million since budget 2005.
Dublin city child care committee is one of the 33 city and county child care committees established as part of the quality measure under the equal opportunities child care programme, and has received €1.55 million in programme funding since the start of the programme. Funding provision for the committees has increased significantly since the start of the programme, and almost €7.6 million has been made available for the implementation of the action plans drawn up by the committees in 2005. This has been supplemented by €965,000 for a range of actions to support childminding.
The original indicative budget for Dublin city child care committee was €318,500 per annum. Following a review of the provisions for the committees in September 2004, the maximum level of the indicative budget for each committee was increased by 8% for 2005. I have also provisionally set aside a further increase of 2.5% for 2006 and a further 2.5% for 2007 for the implementation of the action plan of each committee, including Dublin city child care committee. This has been supplemented by funding provided in respect of the child care bureau of €100,000, making total annual funding of €444,000 available to Dublin city child care committee, excluding childminders' initiatives. I understand that Dublin city child care committee sought a review of this decision and officials in my Department are assessing this request. Pending this review, it would be premature of me to comment further on the matter at this time.
369 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made regarding a citizenship application in the name of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11. [8014/05]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of my Department on 13 April 2004. The average processing time for such applications is 24 months and it is likely, therefore, that the application of the individual concerned will be finalised around April 2006. I will inform both the applicant and the Deputy as soon as I have reached a decision on the application.
370 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if consideration has been given to compensating those who attend in court at their own cost and inconvenience as witnesses, defendants or prosecutors in cases in which an assigned judge fails to appear or when a trial is postponed, delayed or aborted. [8015/05]
In general, witness expenses are paid by the person who has called the witness. In criminal cases, expenses may be paid by the prosecution, the defence or the court itself in cases where it has requested a report. In civil cases, expenses are payable by the party calling the witness. No change is contemplated in these arrangements. Any delay in the hearing of cases is regretted. There will always, however, be instances where, for one reason or another, a case cannot proceed and it is not always possible to anticipate these cases in advance to notify witnesses and parties.
371 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of acres needed for the proposed new prison complex planned for north County Dublin. [8016/05]
372 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the height of the proposed new prison complex planned for north County Dublin; and if it will be single storey, two storey, three storey or four storey. [8019/05]
373 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which sewerage will be provided for the proposed new prison complex planned for north County Dublin in view of the lack of mains sewerage and the water table difficulties in the locality. [8020/05]
374 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which water will be provided for the proposed new prison complex planned for north County Dublin in view of the difficulties with mains water supply in the locality. [8021/05]
375 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which electricity will be provided to the proposed new prison complex planned for north County Dublin in view of the supply difficulties experienced in the locality. [8022/05]
376 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the proposed new prison complex planned for north County Dublin will have two outer walls or one wall and one fence. [8023/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 371 to 376, inclusive, together.
This project is at a very early stage and, as such, the specific details as mentioned by the Deputy will not be available for some time.
377 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement on the case of a person (details supplied), in view of the recent apology on the matter from the Garda Síochána; and if his attention has been drawn to the view of this person’s parents that a police inquiry into the case be carried out. [8024/05]
On 24 February 2005, the Garda Síochána issued a public apology to the family of the late Dean Lyons, stating that they were satisfied that he had no participation in the horrific murders of Sylvia Shiels and Mary Callinan. I fully appreciate the hurt and embarrassment that Mr. and Mrs. Lyons and their family have suffered as a result of criminal charges preferred against Dean and subsequently withdrawn and I can only hope that this apology will help in bringing closure to the matter for them.
The murders of Sylvia Shiels and Mary Callinan on the night of 6 to 7 March 1997 were particularly brutal and merciless and met with universal revulsion. As a result of admissions made by another person, which were subsequently retracted, an assistant commissioner was appointed to review all available evidence on these murders. The Garda authorities stated that this investigation indicated that Mr. Lyons did not commit the murders in question. It also concluded that the manner in which Mr. Lyons had been interviewed in regard to the case complied with the treatment of persons in custody in Garda stations regulations 1987 and the electronic recording of interviews regulations 1997, which came into operation on 1 March 1997.
Following completion of this inquiry, a report was submitted by the assistant commissioner to the Director of Public Prosecutions. In April 1998, after consideration of the report, the Director of Public Prosecutions decided that criminal proceedings against Mr. Lyons be discontinued. In July 1999, Mr. Lyons presented a signed and witnessed statement denying any involvement in the Grangegorman murders. Having considered the file submitted to him by the Garda concerning the second individual who had confessed to the murders, the Director of Public Prosecutions decided that no prosecution should take place.
When the DPP decides not to prosecute in a particular case, the reasons for the decision are given to the State solicitor and the investigating gardaí. The Director of Public Prosecutions stated that it is policy not to disclose this information otherwise. The policy has been upheld by the Supreme Court. The Director of Public Prosecutions is responsible for the prosecution of alleged offences and is independent in the exercise of his functions. It would be inappropriate for me to intervene or comment on his decisions.
With regard to the criminal investigation, the forensic science laboratory is reviewing the exhibits and samples taken at the time from the scene of the murders. I have separately received representations requesting that there be an independent public inquiry into the Garda investigation into the murder of one of the victims, and this request is grounded on the protections afforded by the European Convention on Human Rights.
I am not satisfied that the investigation performed fell short of the standard required by the convention or of the potential effectiveness of a full public tribunal of inquiry. However, in view of the matters raised by the solicitors involved and to assist me in my consideration of the request, I asked the solicitor involved to outline in further detail the reasons he considers a public inquiry to be necessary. I have received a response and, while it does not put forward further details, I have referred the correspondence to the Attorney General. In addition, I expect to receive within a few weeks a detailed report, which I have requested, from the Garda authorities on matters arising in this case. In keeping this matter under review, I will take into account any submission made to me, but the criminal investigation into these two brutal murders is not closed and this would have clear implications for what further action, if any, I might consider.
378 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the visa application of persons (details supplied) will be re-examined. [8025/05]
The visa applications in question were for the purposes of allowing the children of a non-EEA national employed in the State under the working visa scheme, to travel to Ireland for the purposes of residing in the State with their mother. A worker employed under the work permit scheme may be joined by his or her spouse and minor children after the worker has been in the State for one year and has been offered a contract for a further year. The worker must also be able fully to support the family members in question without the need to have recourse to public funds.
One of the persons in question was over the age of 18 at the time of application and consequently her application was refused as she could not be regarded as a minor. With regard to the second person in question, it was noted that she was enrolled in a public non-fee-paying school. It is the general policy of my Department that visas for students, including those wishing to undergo formal secondary education, will issue only where the prospective student will be attending the course of studies at a privately funded school.
It is open to the applicants to appeal these decisions in writing.
379 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to the most recent Garda recruitment drive, the number of applications which were received; the number of applicants who were deemed to be successful and will subsequently be called for interview; when interviews will be held; and the number of recruits who will be taken into training as a result of this most recent recruitment drive based on the recent aptitude test. [8031/05]
The Public Appointments Service administers a recruitment competition on behalf of the Garda Síochána which was launched on 25 November 2004. The service, which is independent in the exercise of its functions, will have details of the number of applicants who were deemed successful and will subsequently be called for interviews and when the interviews will be held. More than 10,600 applications were received for the current competition. This high level of applications was aided by the increase in the maximum recruitment age from 26 to 35, as approved by the Government in November 2004 on foot of a recommendation by the commissioner.
For the period 2005-2007, approximately 275 recruits will be taken into the college every quarter. The intake of this first tranche of 275 students to the Garda College took place on the week commencing Monday, 7 February 2005 and arrangements are in place for the current recruitment competition to be progressed to provide for the second intake of 275 students on 3 May this year. It is estimated that 526 Garda trainees will become attested members of the force in 2005.
The commissioner will draw up plans on how best to distribute and manage the additional Garda resources that will come on stream. The additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government which identifies in particular areas with a significant drugs problem and many public order offences but it will be possible to address other priorities as well, such as the need to increase very significantly the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda traffic corps. I have already promised that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into frontline, operational, high-visibility policing. They will have a real impact.
380 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the special classes being provided by the Celbridge branch of the Dyslexia Association of Ireland at both primary and second level; if her further attention has been drawn to the urgent need for financial assistance in view of the wide range of classes being provided and the obvious costs involved; if she will consider an application for assistance with a view to meeting the ongoing funding requirements of the association; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7839/05]
412 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the special classes being provided by the Celbridge branch of the Dyslexia Association of Ireland at both primary and second level; if her further attention has been drawn to the urgent need for financial assistance in view of the wide range of classes being provided and the obvious costs involved; if she will consider an application for assistance with a view to meeting the ongoing funding requirements of the association; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7838/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 380 and 412 together.
My Department has provided annual funding of €63,500 to the Dyslexia Association of Ireland since 1999. I understand this funding has helped the association to operate an information service for members and the public. In addition, it is understood that part of this funding has assisted in meeting the costs associated with the attendance of some children from disadvantaged backgrounds at workshops and programmes organised by the association.
My Department has received representations from certain branches of the Dyslexia Association of Ireland expressing concern at the escalating costs of running the workshops. My Department is in communications with the association at central level about its funding requirements.
381 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science when it is proposed to open the cross-Border regional autism centre at Middletown, County Armagh; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7874/05]
The joint launch last September by my predecessor and the Minister with responsibility for education in Northern Ireland of the Middletown Centre for Autism marked the successful completion of the purchase of the former St. Joseph's Adolescent Centre, Middletown, County Armagh, on behalf of the Department of Education in the North and the Department of Education and Science in the South. Both Departments plan to refurbish the property to meet the needs of a centre of excellence for children and young people with autism throughout the island of Ireland. The centre will be dedicated to improving and enriching the educational opportunities of children and young people with autistic spectrum disorders.
Four key services will be provided by the centre. These will include a learning support service, on a residential basis, an educational assessment service, a training and advisory service, and an autism research and information service. Since the launch, my officials have had a number of meetings with their counterparts in Northern Ireland regarding the further development of the centre.
A number of working groups are continuing to address the legal, financial, organisational and infrastructural aspects of the proposal. For example, work is continuing on the development of a campus master plan for the Middletown property which, when complete, will guide the commissioning of any necessary infrastructure and refurbishment works. In addition, the process for the recruitment of a chief executive officer to operate the centre is being formulated at present.
At this stage it is anticipated that the centre would be operational by autumn 2006.
382 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a school (details supplied) in Dublin 4 is requesting voluntary contributions of €725 to €1,250 per child per term from parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7497/05]
Voluntary contributions by parents of pupils in recognised primary schools are permissible provided it is made absolutely clear to parents that there is no question of compulsion to pay and that, in making a contribution, they are doing so of their own volition. The manner in which such voluntary contributions are sought and collected is a matter for school management. However, their collection should be such as not to create a situation where either parents or pupils could reasonably infer that the contributions take on a compulsory character.
The school referred to by the Deputy currently has temporary recognition. All issues, including the matter of payment of fees, would be taken into account in the context of consideration being given to extending permanent recognition to the school.
383 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the application for extra hours to be granted to the special needs assistants in a school (details supplied) in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7501/05]
An application for special needs assistant support from the school in question was received in my Department. A review of the existing level of SNA support in the school has recently been completed and a decision on the application will be conveyed to the school shortly.
384 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the recent reply to Question No. 497 of the 15 February 2005 in relation to a school (details supplied) in County Carlow; when funding will be provided for this extension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7504/05]
I can confirm to the Deputy that since my reply to Question No. 497 of 15 February 2005, my Department received an application from the school to which he refers for additional temporary and permanent accommodation. This application is being assessed in the school planning section of my Department and contact will be made directly with the school authority when a decision has been taken in the matter.
385 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Question No. 157 of 17 February 2005, her views on the response of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford to her reply to this question; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7505/05]
I am aware of the newspaper article referred to by the person in County Waterford. I can find nothing in the article which disagrees with the reply I made previously in which I said that "the experience of learning any second language is hugely beneficial to students in that it develops their awareness of how languages work and builds confidence in their own ability to learn other languages".
It is important to recall the context in which children in many European countries learn foreign languages. Many countries, for example Belgium, Luxembourg and Finland, have a significant historic presence of other languages within their borders or in close proximity. This has created an imperative within those countries to learn those foreign languages. In other regards, far and away the most popular foreign language in European schools is English.
Language development is a central element of the revised primary curriculum. Although the focus is on English and Irish, which are enshrined in the Constitution as official languages of the State, a number of primary schools also offer foreign languages. My Department launched a pilot project for modern languages in primary schools in September 1998. The aims of the pilot project included the development of communication skills in four target languages which are French, German, Spanish and Italian, the fostering of positive attitudes to language learning and the diversification of the languages taught in schools. To achieve these aims in the project schools, the teaching of a modern European language to pupils in fifth and sixth classes was introduced. Currently 394 schools are participating in the initiative at primary level.
At the request of my Department, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment has carried out a feasibility study on the teaching of modern languages in the primary curriculum. The report, completed last year, recommended that any decision on the place of modern languages in the primary curriculum should be deferred until the revised primary curriculum has been implemented in full. This will be 2007 at the earliest. Until then, the initiative will continue with support provided by a team of language specialists and funded by my Department. The NCCA is engaging in additional research and some pilot projects with initiative schools to further inform its advice when the primary curriculum has been fully implemented. My Department is working closely with language experts from the Council of Europe to facilitate the analysis of language practice at primary and post-primary level, with a view to the formulation of an integrated language policy. This analysis will include Irish as well as the development of criteria for decision-making on issues such as the inclusion of additional languages in the curriculum. This will complement ongoing work by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment which is engaged in reviewing languages in the post-primary curriculum and the feasibility of expanding provision at primary level.
386 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the special needs allocation to a young person (details supplied) in Dublin 6W who will attend school shortly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7512/05]
The Deputy may be aware that the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, which was established recently and which has been operational since 1 January 2005, is responsible for processing applications for special educational needs supports. Seventy one special educational needs organisers have been recruited throughout the country and will be a focal point of contact for schools and parents. I can confirm that an application for special needs assistant support has been received for the pupil concerned and is with the local SENO for processing. The SENO will make direct contact with the school authorities regarding the matter.
387 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science if the resource teacher at a school (details supplied) in County Kerry will be retained. [7519/05]
In the light of the reality that pupils in the high incidence disability categories of mild and borderline mild general learning disability and dyslexia are distributed throughout the education system, my Department, in consultation with educational interests, developed a general model of resource teacher allocation to schools to support students in these disability categories. This model, which was announced by my predecessor in 2004 to come into effect from September 2005, was designed to put in place a permanent resource in primary schools to cater for pupils in these categories.
The model was constructed so that allocations would be based on pupil numbers, taking into account the differing needs of the most disadvantaged schools and the evidence that boys have greater difficulties than girls in this regard. The logic behind having a general allocation model is to reduce the need for individual applications and supporting psychological assessments and put resources in place on a more systematic basis, thereby giving schools more certainty about their resource levels. This will allow for better planning in schools, greater flexibility in identifying and intervening earlier with regard to pupils' special needs, as well as making the posts more attractive to qualified teachers.
As I have told the Dáil on a number of occasions, I am very conscious of difficulties that could arise in relation to the model announced last year, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as proposed. Accordingly, I am having the proposed model reviewed to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common mild learning disabilities, without the need for cumbersome individual applications, while at the same time ensuring that pupils in receipt of service continue to receive the level of service appropriate to their needs. In carrying out the review, my Department is consulting representative interests, including the National Council for Special Education. I have made it clear that I am in favour of using a general allocation model to ensure that we have in place a permanent resource in our primary schools to cater for pupils with high incidence mild disabilities and learning difficulties. However, it will not be as announced last year. The revised procedure for providing a general allocation of resource hours to schools will be announced in the coming weeks, in time to be implemented for the next school year. A communication will issue to all schools at that point, including the school referred to by the Deputy. In the lower incidence disability categories, resources will continue to be allocated on the basis of individual applications. It is important that where there is a particular special need in the low incidence category that these children are considered individually. These pupils are not evenly distributed among schools and a general allocation model would not be appropriate. However, the involvement of the National Council for Special Education and the special education needs organisers will greatly enhance the speed of response to such applications.
388 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the schools which will be included in the school completion programme for 2005 and 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7523/05]
There are currently 82 projects participating in the school completion programme in 21 counties, comprising of 300 primary and 112 post primary schools. Any decision to include further schools in the school completion programme is being considered by my Department in the context of the overall review of disadvantage programmes which is nearing completion. Arising from the review process, a draft report has been prepared and it is my intention to complete this work as soon as possible.
389 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science when she will announce the list of schools to benefit under the summer works scheme 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7524/05]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the list of successful applicants under the summer works scheme was published on Monday, 7 March 2005.
390 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received and when she will consider funding for an application from a school (details supplied) in County Clare in regard to a prefabricated unit to deal with special needs and other related activities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7526/05]
All applications for temporary accommodation have been considered in the school planning section of my Department. In the context of the available funding and the number of applications for that funding, it was not possible to approve all applications received and only those with an absolute and demonstrated need for additional accommodation were approved. The application for a resource room in temporary accommodation at the school to which the Deputy refers was not successful on this occasion. The school authority has been advised accordingly.
391 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of an extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7527/05]
An extension project at the school to which the Deputy refers has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria. The project is being considered in the context of the school buildings and modernisation programme.
The school authority recently applied for temporary accommodation to meet its mainstream accommodation needs for September next. The application has been considered and the school authority advised that my Department will provide funding to grant aid the rental of the prefabricated unit required.
392 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of a new primary school at a school (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7528/05]
The project at the school to which the Deputy refers has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria. The project is being considered in the context of the school buildings and modernisation programme. Detailed examination of a feasibility study regarding the options for provision of the required level of accommodation is under way to determine the best way forward.
The Deputy will be aware that I recently announced details of 43 school projects which are being authorised to proceed to architectural planning immediately. I will be making further announcements on projects which will progress, on a phased basis, into the architectural planning process in the next 12 to 15 months.
The proposed project at the school referred to will be considered in this regard.
393 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that in September 2004 her Department directed the board of management of a school (details supplied) in County Dublin to utilise the all-purpose room as a class room; if, in view of this, an additional prefab will be made available to the school for September 2005 to enable the all purpose room to revert to its previous use. [7546/05]
The school referred to by the Deputy made an application to my Department for the provision of two temporary classrooms from September 2005. Approval has now been given to the school authority to provide the two temporary classrooms required. I understand that this will facilitate the general purposes room reverting to its original usage at the school in question.
394 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the carry forward of €50 million from the schools building programme 2004 to the financial year 2005 in view of the fact that many schools seeking funding for necessary building work were advised by her Department that no funds were available. [7552/05]
The carryover of €50 million from 2004 to 2005 on school buildings was not due to any reduction or cutback in planned activity. The reason was that some payments on projects that were approved to go to tender and construction, did not incur payment in 2004 as originally envisaged.
A record level of new school projects was commissioned in 2004 and payments expected to fall due before the end of 2004 did not arise until early 2005. However, the decision by the Government to put its entire capital programme, including the education capital programme, on a multi-annual basis means that it is easier to manage and cope with that type of variation in projected spending.
The Deputy will appreciate that the 2004 school building programme was a multifaceted undertaking involving many hundreds of individual projects ranging from new school buildings, extensions, refurbishments and other projects under the summer works scheme, temporary accommodation and permanent accommodation initiatives, remediation programmes and the contingency fund. In addition, my Department funds the purchase of sites for new school building projects.
In broad terms, there are many reasons which can cause unexpected delays in the pace at which some projects advance. These include an appeal of planning permission by third parties to An Bord Pleanála, contractors withdrawing tenders and design teams being slower than anticipated in getting projects tendered.
However, through the carryover measure and the overall management of my capital budget and Department spending to the end of 2004, I was able to ensure that all funds remaining for 2004, together with the allocation for 2005, allowed me to maintain the momentum in the capital building and modernisation programme started by the record level of activity in 2004.
395 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the school construction project for the Stepaside and Leopardstown area in the Sandyford parish of Dublin South; if it is envisaged that construction will be completed by September 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7558/05]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department is pursuing the development of two schools to serve the emerging needs of the Leopardstown-Stepaside area. A site has recently been acquired to provide a new 16 classroom facility for Gaelscoil Taobh na Coille. This project is included in the list of recently announced projects which will commence architectural planning with immediate effect.
A suitable site for the planned new parish school has also been identified. Acquisition of the site is at an advanced conveyancing stage. This school is expected to commence operation in temporary accommodation next September and the planning section of my Department is liaising with the chairperson of the board of management with a view to procuring temporary accommodation to facilitate its commencement plans.
396 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in providing a new national school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [7579/05]
I can confirm that an application has been received for a new building for the school to which the Deputy refers. Various options for the long-term accommodation needs of this school are being considered in the school planning section of my Department, including the possibility of acquiring a new greenfield site. A decision in the matter will be taken as quickly as possible.
397 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if the OPW has purchased a site in Coolock, acting on behalf of her Department, to accommodate a school (details supplied) in Dublin 9; if this site is specifically designated for this school; if other alternatives for providing suitable accommodation for this school are under consideration; when the analysis of the overall future provision of primary education in this general area will be finalised and the broader examination completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7581/05]
The property management section of the Office for Public Works, which acts on behalf of my Department on site acquisitions generally, has identified a site, which could provide for the long-term accommodation requirements of the school in question, and is now awaiting receipt of draft contracts.
My Department is also looking at another option which could offer a better value for money solution for the school's long term accommodation needs. This option includes an overall review of primary educational infrastructure in the area in question, the likely demand for primary school places in the medium to long term, and how existing provision can be maximised to cater for this demand. This review, which will be completed as quickly as possible, will inform any future decisions on how to resolve the accommodation needs of the school referred to by the Deputy.
398 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when a decision on the application for permanent recognition will be made in the case of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; when the long-term location of the school will be resolved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7660/05]
An application for permanent recognition from the school to which the Deputy refers is under consideration in the school planning section of my Department. As part of the examination, factors such as the long-term viability of the school, current and projected enrolments and suitability of accommodation is being considered. A decision on the school's application will be made as soon as possible.
Until such time as permanent recognition is granted to the school, it does not qualify for capital funding. If and when permanent recognition is granted, budgetary factors will then determine the rate of progress on the delivery of permanent accommodation for the school.
399 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if a college (details supplied) in Dublin 1 is obliged to retain and make available, if requested, examination results or preadmission assessments, including scripts for a specific period after the taking of such tests by applicants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7661/05]
The college referred to by the Deputy is a statutory body established under the Dublin Institute of Technology Act, 1992. Under that Act, the governance and day-to-day activities of the institute are matters for which the governing body and the management staff of the institute are responsible.
All college faculties retain and make available examination results to all registered students. Graduates are also facilitated with respect to their examination results in this regard. Examination scripts completed by registered students are kept in each faculty for a period of 12 months following the relevant examination in accordance with the college's general assessment regulations.
Preadmission assessments are administered for some programmes, most notably, art and design, photography, music, drama and architecture programmes and range in type from performance — for music and drama — to portfolio — art and design and photography — and suitability tests — architecture. The results of these assessments are forwarded to all candidates in advance of the change of mind deadline imposed by the CAO to enable applicants to avail of the change of mind facility, if they so wish. I understand also that it is the college's policy not to make preadmission aptitude tests available to candidates outside the test centre as it would prejudice the effectiveness of the test for future use.
400 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if the validation for persons wishing to be youth workers here still comes from England; if she has plans to make this validation available here; and if she will consider attempting to make the process for validation an all-Ireland one. [7662/05]
Youth work training providers in the Republic of Ireland have, up to now, sought professional endorsement from education and training standards committees, ETS, in England and Wales. The National Youth Work Development Plan 2003-2007 proposes as a priority action that a youth work validation body, now termed endorsement panel, should be established with the purpose of developing a comprehensive framework for accreditation and certification in youth work, taking into account the provisions of the Qualifications (Education and Training) Act 1999 and the need for accessible and flexible progression routes for both volunteers and paid workers.
The national youth work advisory committee, NYWAC, further proposed that this panel be established on a partnership basis with youth work organisations and interests in Northern Ireland where new arrangements for the validation of youth work training are also being implemented.
Following a submission from NYWAC in December 2004, I have approved of the proposals made in respect of this initiative. My Department is actively pursuing the matter with the relevant agencies involved in Northern Ireland and the UK.
401 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the serious safety implications for children travelling to and from school on organised buses that in many cases have no safety belts; and if she has immediate plans to review the current guidelines. [7663/05]
Legislation regarding the fitting and wearing of seat belts in public vehicles is the responsibility of the Minister for Transport. Under existing regulations seatbelts are not compulsory on buses used for school transport. In operating the school transport scheme, Bus Éireann is fully compliant with all relevant regulations as laid down by the Department of Transport.
Irrespective of the legal requirements, which are being fully complied with, safety on vehicles used for school transport is of paramount importance to my Department and Bus Éireann. As the Deputy will be aware, Bus Éireann has a very good safety record in the operation of school transport services on behalf of my Department and the company is fully committed to ensuring that the highest safety standards are maintained. My Department and Bus Éireann will obviously comply with any future regulations laid down by the Department of Transport regarding the wearing of seat belts.
402 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if a school (details supplied) in Dublin 2 will receive the adequate funding to ensure its continued existence at its current location; the position regarding plans to amalgamate Ringsend Technical Institute and this school onto one site in the area; and if a site has been identified on which her Department intends to build this new school. [7664/05]
Given the dramatic drop in enrolments at Ringsend Technical Institute, from 501 students in 1995-6 to 166 in 2004-5, and its proximity to the school referred to by the Deputy, my Department is of the view that the amalgamation of the two schools into a single school development would best serve the needs of both school communities into the future. An amalgamated school would also be well placed to offer a broad variety of curricular options to all students. The building requirements of both schools are being considered in this context. Discussions with the relevant partners on the issue of amalgamation have taken place but no agreement has been reached.
403 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the application for further funding for the Sligo youthreach centre; if the funding will be granted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7665/05]
The Youthreach programme is designed for young persons aged between 15 and 20 years who have left school early with minimal or no qualifications. Youthreach is delivered in out-of-school settings, often in rented premises. Pay and non-pay grants, including rent supplements where necessary, are provided by my Department to VECs to meet the running costs of the programme.
On 18 January 2005, County Sligo Vocational Education Committee wrote to my Department seeking a supplementary grant of €204,000 to refurbish part of the Youthreach premises at Cleveragh, Sligo. However, these proposals are not included in the list of approved building works for 2005. Accordingly, a supplementary grant will not be provided by my Department in respect of the proposed works this year. They are not excluded from consideration in the future.
404 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science when a school (details supplied) in County Kildare will be notified that a person has been sanctioned for additional special needs assistance hours; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7666/05]
My officials have conveyed verbal approval to the school in question for additional special needs assistant support for the pupil concerned. Written confirmation will issue to the school shortly.
405 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science the minimum number of pupils that a primary school can have to allow it to retain a third teacher or have a third teacher appointed; if, in view of the number of trained teachers now available for work and the commitment of the Government to lower the teacher-pupil ratio, she has plans to lower the number of pupils needed for a third teacher in order that smaller rural schools can have the necessary staff available to provide proper structures and teaching to the pupils in isolated rural areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7667/05]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by applying the enrolment of the school on the 30 September of the previous school year to a staffing schedule, agreed between my Department and the education partners. For the current school year an enrolment of 82 pupils is required for the appointment and retention of a third mainstream class teacher in ordinary primary schools. My Department will finalise the staffing schedule for the 2005-6 school year shortly and thereafter notify school boards of management.
Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio at primary level in recent years. The ratio has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-7 school year to 17.44:1 in the 2003-4 school year. In line with Government policy, my Department will continue to provide further reductions in the pupil-teacher ratio within available resources and subject to spending priorities within the education sector. Priority will be given to pupils with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and those in junior classes.
406 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the failure of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick to obtain one of their four preference second level schools in County Limerick. [7668/05]
All students who applied for a place under the Limerick city area post-primary schools common application form have been offered places in a school of their preference on the basis of their original application. Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 provides parents with an appeal process to the Secretary General of my Department, where a board of management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the board refuses enrolment of a student. Where an appeal under section 29 is upheld, the Secretary General of my Department may direct a school to enrol a pupil. The educational welfare officer can assist parents in submitting an appeal under section 29 of the Education Act 1998.
The parents of each student, including the person referred to by the Deputy, who did not receive an offer a place in one of his or her higher preference schools has a right of appeal under section 29 of the Education Act against each school for which he or she expressed a preference and which has not offered him or her a place. Parents contacting my Department will be advised that such appeals will be dealt with one at a time in the order of their preference.
However, to avoid false hopes it should be pointed out that an appeal is only likely to be successful if the schools application of its enrolment policy is found to be faulty or discriminatory in some way. Parents are advised to contact the schools which have refused places to find out the criteria which the school has applied in its enrolment policy and to determine if there are any grounds on which the parent feels an appeal would be successful. It is the responsibility of each school to have in place an enrolment policy which it can stand over.
407 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will sanction the provision of new premises for the Limerick Education Centre; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7723/05]
The accommodation requirements of the Limerick Education Centre are under consideration in my Department. A number of options for the provision of appropriate accommodation in a suitable location are being explored. When a decision has been made on how best to provide for the needs of the centre, the project will be progressed in the context of the school buildings and modernisation programme.
I have made a number of announcements relating to the 2005 schools building programme and I will make further announcements in due course. The needs of the Limerick Education Centre will be considered in this regard.
408 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science the work that will be carried out arising from the recent financial allocation to construct a new school (details supplied) in County Carlow; if this allocation is sufficient to complete the building and furnishing of this new four-teacher school; if there will be no financial shortfall for this project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7757/05]
My Department is moving towards a model of devolving the responsibility of building projects to school management authorities where appropriate. The devolving of funding to local level will accommodate school authorities to have responsibility and ownership of their building projects and assist in moving projects in a specific timeframe through the design process, to tender action and construction. The school in question has been included for a new school under the small schools initiative 2005 which I announced last week.
409 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science when approval will issue to the board of management of a national school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny in respect of its application for a building project under the schools building programme 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7758/05]
The project to which the Deputy refers was included in the recently published list of capital projects that have been authorised to commence architectural planning with immediate effect.
410 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will investigate the circumstances concerning the refusal of an independent living, mature student grant to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if, in view of the hardship involved, consideration will be given to this person’s case. [7765/05]
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 referred to by the Deputy.
If an individual applicant considers that he or she has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, he or she 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-her case, a letter outlining the position may be sent to my Department. Alternatively, as already indicated, 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 grants schemes in individual cases.
411 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount now allocated by her Department for the construction of a new school (details supplied); the original estimated cost of building this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7811/05]
It was planned that the building project for the school referred to by the Deputy would be authorised to proceed to construction during 2003 subject mainly to significant cost savings. The lowest tenderer was approached but was unable to stand over his original tender and increased his price. Accordingly, no cost savings would be achieved.
My Department's school building unit operates a devolved schools initiative which allows boards of management to address its own accommodation and building priorities with a guaranteed amount of funding and minimum involvement from my Department. Discussions were held with the school management in 2004 and an offer was made of an all-in grant to address its accommodation problem. The management was not convinced at the time that the grant offer would meet the particular needs of the school. An official from my Department recently visited the school to discuss the issues again and make a further offer. Discussions are ongoing in the matter.
413 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the grants which are available for specialised third level courses in the UK being undertaken by students leaving second level Irish schools who have a commitment to return to apply their skills. [7840/05]
Under my Department's higher education grant schemes, maintenance grants are available to eligible students pursuing approved undergraduate courses in other EU member states, including the UK. In general, approved courses are those pursued in a third level institution which is maintained or assisted by recurrent grants from public funds.
Students attending approved courses in other EU member states are subject to the same conditions of funding as students attending approved courses in the State. The main conditions of funding relate to age, residence, means, nationality and previous academic attainment. Also tax relief on tuition fees is available in respect of approved courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level in other EU member states.
In recent years, the UK authorities introduced a number of changes in the financial support arrangements for students pursuing courses at further and higher education institutions. This included the introduction of an annual tuition fee for students entering further and higher education institutions for the first time from the 1998-99 academic year and the replacement of maintenance grants by student loans to be phased in from that year also. All EU students, including Irish students, are eligible for grant assistance towards the tuition fee, subject to the same conditions as apply to UK students.
414 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for funding for the building of a school (details supplied) in County Meath, which caters for children from the Meath and Kildare area. [7911/05]
An application for funding in relation to a temporary structure provided by Stepping Stones Meath ABA School Limited is the subject of an appeal in my Department. When the appeals process is finalised, an official of my Department's school building section will be in direct contact with the authority.
An application for funding in regard to a temporary structure provided by Stepping Stones Meath ABA School Limited is the subject of an appeal in my Department. When the appeals process is finalised, an official of my Department's school building section will be in direct contact with the Stepping Stones Meath ABA School Limited to advise it of the outcome.
415 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the criteria for funding community-led education; if increases in funding have been above inflation in recent years; and her concerns regarding the lack of salary increases or pension plans of many of the staff working in the sector. [7915/05]
My Department provides grants to vocational education committees on an annual basis to support the provision of education in community settings. The VECs do this by way of direct grants to such groups or by the provision of an outreach service to meet locally identified needs. The distribution of community education grants within its area is determined by the VEC, subject to the overall community education allocation from my Department. In addition, community-based education groups are eligible to apply for funding on an annual basis under the community strand of the back to education initiative that was introduced in 2002.
Funding for community education has exceeded the level of inflation in recent years and this is also the case in the current year. Community education organisations are themselves responsible for the remuneration and conditions of employment of staff employed by them.
416 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of persons employed in her private office and her constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7931/05]
There are ten staff employed in my private office, one working half-time. The total annual salary paid in respect of these staff at current rates is €386,416. The total travel and subsistence payments in respect of these staff from the date of my appointment to date is €14,804.51.
There are four staff employed in the constituency office of my Department. The total annual salary paid in respect of these staff at current rates is €143,420. Arrangements are being finalised in regard to a further appointment in the constituency office of my Department and I will be in touch with the Deputy as soon as this process is concluded.
417 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the 20,000 non-fee-paying school places in Dublin; her views on whether people need to be encouraged to use and support the public school system; and the action she is taking in this regard. [7965/05]
Fee-paying schools are a traditional feature of the post-primary educational system, particularly in Dublin. Fee-charging schools, with the exception of the special arrangements apply in respect of the Protestant and Jewish fee-paying schools, do not receive capitation or related supports. The Protestant and Jewish schools receive funding by way of a block grant, which has its origins in the desire of the State to enable students of the Protestant and Jewish persuasion to attend schools, which reflect their denominational ethos. The block grant includes payments in respect of capitation.
There have been significant improvements in the level of funding for non-fee-paying 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 the rate of €103 from 1 January 2005.
Funding for voluntary secondary schools has been further enhanced by the introduction of a range of equalisation measures that are 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.
The payment of teachers salaries is part of a complex scheme of funding for fee-charging schools, which has traditionally sought to balance considerations of equity, pragmatism and State support for minority religions. Teachers in fee-charging schools, irrespective of the denominational ethos of the school, are paid by the State. This may well reflect a long-standing pragmatism that the State would be required to provide teachers for the pupils in question were they located within the free education scheme.
418 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the gender-balance of agencies under the auspices of her Department; and when she intends to carry out a review of these bodies in terms of gender balance. [7966/05]
My Department routinely reviews the gender balance of State boards under the auspices of my Department. Quarterly returns are made to the equality section of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform which has a co-ordinating role.
Since September 2003, the number of female members of State boards under the auspices of the Department of Education and Science has increased from 370 to 581 which represents an increase from 36% to 39%.
In addition my Department is funding a research project on Senior Appointments in Education, A Study of Management Culture. This project is looking at senior appointments in the first, second and third levels of the education sector, at senior appointments in the agencies under the auspices of my Department and at senior management appointments in the Department itself. This project is expected to be completed in autumn 2006. My Department attaches a high priority to raising awareness of gender issues in all areas of the education system and has initiated a large number of research activities and projects designed to maintain progress in this area.
419 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will elaborate on her recent comments to the effect that the method and systems used to designate particular schools as being disadvantaged are inadequate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7967/05]
420 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will elaborate on recent comments that programmes in the area of educational disadvantage have been allowed to drift without sufficient focus and need to be targeted properly; the programmes to which she was referring, if a lack of resources at present and a legacy of years of under-resourcing are also hindering progress in the area of combating educational disadvantage. [7968/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 419 and 420 together.
My Department provided more than €540 million in 2004 for measures specifically designed to address educational disadvantage by targeting resources at pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds. My Department's approach to tackling educational disadvantage is based on a continuum of provision, from early childhood through adulthood, with the focus on preventative strategies, targeting and integrated community responses. Very significant additional funding is being provided to alleviate disadvantage in 2005. This additional funding will allow for increased targeting of measures from pre-school through the school system to third level, second-chance education and adult literacy.
It is important that the significant investment by my Department in tackling educational disadvantage is targeted at those most in need of support. The need to ensure that resources are properly targeted is one of the issues that are being addressed by my Department in the context of the overall review of disadvantage programmes which is nearing completion. Arising from the review process a draft report has been prepared and it is my intention to complete this work as soon as possible. My priorities for tackling educational disadvantage in the context of the final report will include putting in place an improved system for identifying and reviewing levels of disadvantage and targeting supports accordingly.
421 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if she plans to increase supports for principals and deputy principals, in view of recent reports regarding their excessive workloads. [7969/05]
I am very conscious that schools across the country have to deal with a heavy administrative burden arising from necessary departmental and legislative requirements.
I have indicated recently to a number of parties, my intention to conduct a review of this administrative burden as soon as possible. In this regard, I am happy to report that my Department will shortly write to the relevant stakeholders inviting them to consider where and in what way present processes can be improved upon. As well as consulting with interested parties, this process will also look at internal procedures and ways in which we, in the Department, can streamline our business processes to deliver benefits to principals in schools.
Increased use of IT systems and more effective communication between the Department, agencies and schools are just some of the ways that we are hoping to reduce the burden on schools. I believe that we can collectively identify practical opportunities to streamline our processes, whilst still achieving our key objectives. I look forward to working with my officials and interested parties on addressing this issue on an ongoing basis.
422 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if the new Irish Institute for Chinese Studies in UCD and UCC, as part of its mission to provide Chinese students with the ideal platform from which to explore modern Europe, will cover such subjects as law, political science and political philosophy, including issues such as human rights and democratisation. [7970/05]
In accordance with the Universities Act 1997, universities are autonomous bodies and may determine the content of curricula and programmes as they deem appropriate.
423 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has met representatives of groups concerned with sexual violence in her capacity as Minister for Education and Science; the way in which she intends to reform this most important area of education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7971/05]
I have not met representatives of groups concerned with sexual violence in my capacity as Minister for Education and Science.
As regards dealing with the issue within education, a national curriculum in social personal and health education, SPHE, incorporating relationships and sexuality education has been developed at junior cycle level, and this has been made mandatory for all schools with effect from September 2003. In addition, all schools are required to have an agreed school policy and a suitable relationships and sexuality education programme in place for senior cycle pupils. Comprehensive guidelines for junior cycle and senior cycle have also been published and provided to schools by the NCCA to support the RSE aspects of the curriculum. An integrated SPHE programme at senior cycle incorporating RSE is being developed.
The overall aims of the SPHE curricula are to foster the personal development, health and well-being of students and help them to create supportive relationships and become responsible citizens; to develop a framework of values, attitudes, understanding and skills that will inform their actions and decision making; and to establish and maintain healthy patterns of behaviour.
The SPHE modules at junior cycle in post-primary schools deal specifically with belonging and integrating, handling conflict constructively, dealing with peer pressure, influences on decision-making, relationships and sexuality in terms of values, reproductive system, tackling myths about sex and pregnancy, personal safety, substance use and the impact of teenage pregnancy.
The RSE programme at senior cycle deals further with these issues and includes pregnancy, contraception, sexually transmitted diseases, sexual harassment, sexual assault, and accepting sexual orientation.
A national SPHE support service was established in September 2000, and provides a full-time support service in collaboration with the health boards to assist schools to deliver the programme. A national support officer for RSE is also provided in St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, to provide support and advice to schools in regard to RSE at senior cycle.
SPHE programmes are designed to enable children and young people to develop a framework of values, attitudes, understanding and life skills that will inform their decisions and actions both during their time in school and in their future lives.
The curriculum guidelines in RSE at senior cycle will be reviewed as part of emerging developments in relation to the review of senior cycle and the development of an integrated SPHE programme incorporating RSE.
My Department is also undertaking research, in the context of the national strategy on crisis pregnancy, to examine how best the implementation of SPHE and RSE in schools can be further strengthened.
424 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on the discussions held with her colleagues at the Education, Youth and Culture Council of 21 February 2005. [7972/05]
Ireland was represented at the Education and Youth Council of 21 February 2005 by my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy de Valera. EU Education Ministers adopted conclusions on the role of education in the knowledge-based society. This forms part of the contribution to the work of the European Council of 22-23 March next on the mid-term review of the Lisbon strategy. The debate focused on the progress achieved in the education and training 2010 work programme. There was broad consensus on the need to integrate education and training into the Lisbon strategy. Most contributions echoed the need to focus on jobs and competencies and stressed that education and training are indispensable preliminaries for the knowledge society.
Ministers also had an exchange of views on the effectiveness and equity of European education systems. Education Ministers also informally discussed the follow-up to the conference of EU Education Ministers regarding the education aspects of the reconstruction of countries affected by the tsunami disaster which took place in Paris on 22 January last. The Luxembourg Presidency informed the Council that the General Affairs Council of 31 January decided, following the Paris conference, to integrate education into emergency measures at a European level.
Youth Ministers adopted conclusions on the role of young people in the Lisbon strategy. They welcomed the initiative of the Heads of State and Government of Germany, France, Spain and Sweden to propose the adoption of a European Youth Pact recognising the very important position of young citizens in the achievement of the Lisbon objectives, an initiative supported by the European Commission. The youth Ministers' conclusions will be sent to the European Council as part of the mid-term review of the Lisbon strategy, ahead of the adoption of the youth pact by the spring summit.
425 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the action her Department is taking in relation to the European Year of Citizenship through Education. [7973/05]
The Council of Europe launched the 2005 European Year of Citizenship through Education last December. In organising this year, the Council of Europe wishes to draw attention to how crucial education is to the development of citizenship and the quality of participation in a democratic society. Further details on the year are available on the Council of Europe website www.coe.int. I have arranged for the curriculum development unit of the City of Dublin Vocational Education Committee to co-ordinate activities for the year in Ireland. The focus of the year will be on policy and practical issues in the formal and non-formal areas of education. A formal launch of the year in Ireland will take place in the near future and I will be announcing further details in due course.
426 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio per class per year in each of the schools in Lucan. [7974/05]
427 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio per class per year in each of the schools in Palmerstown. [7975/05]
428 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio per class per year in each of the schools in Clondalkin. [7976/05]
429 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio per class per year in each of the schools in Saggart. [7977/05]
430 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio per class per year in each of the schools in Newcastle. [7978/05]
431 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio per class per year in each of the schools in Rathcoole. [7979/05]
432 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio per class per year in each of the schools in Brittas. [7980/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 426 to 432, inclusive, together.
The national level pupil-teacher ratio is calculated by dividing the number of pupils by the number of teachers. Data on teachers include special education teachers and resource teachers in addition to classroom teachers.
Teachers other than classroom teachers are generally shared among a number of classes and, in some cases, between a number of schools. Therefore, the pupil-teacher ratio is applied at school level not classroom level.
The questions refer to a range of geographical areas. However, the school addresses that are stored on the primary database may not always correspond to the names of the locations of interest to the Deputy. Therefore, to ensure clarity, I ask the Deputy to please provide details of the school name and roll number of the schools to which he refers.
433 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Defence if training instructions or circulars 03/77 and 17/87 have been revised; the measures which have been taken to ensure that the details of such revised instruction circulars have been brought to the attention of members of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7502/05]
434 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Defence if the provisions of the Defence Forces regulations administration 7, paragraph 3 was adhered to regarding training instructions 03/77 and 17/87; if the proceeding documents were published for the benefit of those persons affected by an incident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7503/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 433 and 434 together.
The military authorities have advised that training instructions 03/77 and 17/87 have been replaced by training instruction 2/2002, Safety Precautions for Live Firing — Small Arms and Use of Pyrotechnics. Training instruction 2/2002 has been issued to all unit commanders and is published on the directorate of Defence Forces training web page. In addition, a safety brief is conducted prior to all training exercises. The other matters referred to in the Deputy's questions will be for consideration by the military court of inquiry to which I have referred in previous replies to the House regarding the incident in question. The court of inquiry will be held following completion of the civil legal action which has been initiated.
435 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Defence the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7932/05]
There are four members of staff employed in my private office. At current rates, the salaries of these staff amount to €159,001 per annum. Costs in relation to expenses — travel and subsistence — have amounted to €252 since 29 September 2004. There is a staff of six in my constituency office, one of whom is work-sharing. At current rates, the salaries of these staff amount to €168,424 per annum. There have been no costs in relation to expenses — travel and subsistence — since 29 September 2004.
In addition, I have appointed a special adviser, press adviser, personal assistant and personal secretary. At current rates, the salaries of these staff amount to €212,180. Costs in relation to expenses — travel and subsistence — have amounted to €1,972 since 29 September 2004.
436 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there are laws or guidelines in dealing with noise pollution between neighbours in residential areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7792/05]
Under the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 (Noise) Regulations 1994, a local authority or any person may seek an order in the District Court to have noise giving reasonable cause for annoyance abated. The procedures involved have been simplified to allow action to be taken without legal representation. A public information leaflet outlining the legal avenues available to persons experiencing noise nuisance is available from my Department and on the Department's website, www.environ.ie.
437 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the recruitment process for the post of IS technical support officer within local authorities; the reason the IS technical support officer posts are confined to the common recruitment pool, while the posts of IS project leader and IS development analyst are open to persons who have not served with a local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter [7490/05]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 642 of 23 November 2004 which outlined the IT grading structure in local authorities, and the recruitment process for the posts involved. The position is unchanged.
438 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is a derogation from housing density guidelines for the building of a house for family members in the corner site of a family home. [7535/05]
The guidelines for planning authorities on residential density issued in September 1999 were assigned to promote the achievement of higher residential densities in appropriate locations in tandem with improved public transport systems. The guidelines include consideration of the issue of infill residential development in inner suburban areas. This would include cases in which it is proposed to construct a new dwelling within the garden of an existing dwelling. The guidelines indicate that the provision of additional dwellings within inner suburban areas of towns and cities proximate to existing or due to be improved public transport corridors has the potential for revitalising areas and utilising to a greater degree the capacity of existing social and physical infrastructure. This can be supported by way of infill or subdivision of existing dwellings.
On infill development the guidelines state that in residential areas whose character is established by their density or architectural form, a balance needs to be struck between the reasonable protection of the amenities and privacy of adjoining dwellings, the protection of established character and the need to provide residential infill. The guidelines indicate that the design approach in such circumstances should be based on a recognition of the need to protect the amenities of directly adjoining neighbours and the general character of the area and its amenities, that is, views, architectural quality, civic design etc. The exact requirements to be applied in each area are a matter for the relevant planning authority in the context of any relevant policies contained in its development plan. The residential density guidelines do not make specific reference to any particular category of applicant for planning permission in the context of applications for infill residential development.
439 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will approve the contract documents for the provision of a sewerage scheme in Lecarrow, County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7553/05]
A tender report has been received by my Department from the procurement authority, in this case Meath County Council, in respect of the group of sewerage schemes, including Lecarrow, selected by the national rural water monitoring committee as a pilot programme to test a range of new, small-scale waste water collection and treatment systems. The tender report is under examination in my Department and is being dealt with as quickly as possible.
440 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the proposed timeframe for the upgrading of the water system in the Fanad area of County Donegal to be completed; when the Glenvar mains will be connected up to the Fanad works; the cost to date; and the costs for the completed works. [7557/05]
The Fanad water supply scheme has been approved for construction in two stages under my Department's water services investment programme 2004-06. The overall estimated cost of the scheme is €15.8 million of which €900,000 has to date been recouped by my Department to Donegal County Council.
Phase 1 of the scheme, which includes the rehabilitation and replacement of the existing water main network in the Fanad peninsula, is under construction and is expected to be completed by September 2005. Donegal County Council has submitted a revised preliminary report to my Department for phase 2 which includes the connection of the Glenvar mains to the Fanad regional water supply network. The revised preliminary report is being examined in my Department and will be dealt with as quickly as possible.
441 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount allocated for 2004 to County Westmeath for the local improvement scheme; the funding proposals for 2005; and when the scheme will receive funding for 2005. [7568/05]
A grant of €123,859 was allocated to Westmeath County Council in 2004 under the local improvement scheme. The total 2005 allocation for the local improvements scheme is €12.5 million. I intend to announce details of individual allocations to county councils under the scheme shortly.
442 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the levels of funding towards maintenance of roads for Donegal County Council for the years 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2004; and the levels of funding which will be available for maintenance in 2005. [7569/05]
The following table sets out details of restoration maintenance and discretionary maintenance grants paid by my Department to Donegal County Council from 2001 to 2004 and the allocations for 2005.
|
Year |
Restoration Maintenance Grant Payment/ Allocation |
Discretionary Maintenance Grant Payment/ Allocation |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
2000 |
2,813,627 |
1,177,047 |
|
2001 |
3,157,839 |
1,536,383 |
|
2002 |
3,442,000 |
1,674,000 |
|
2003 |
3,439,056 |
1,674,000 |
|
2004 |
3,716,000 |
1,759,000 |
|
2005 Allocation |
4,059,000 |
1,812,000 |
443 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the amount of planning applications for retention submitted to local authorities; if he has evidence to suggest that this procedure is being abused; if he has plans to curtail this practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7580/05]
At present my Department does not collect figures on the number of planning applications for retention permission. However, my Department has collected figures on the total amount of application fees paid for retention permission in 2003, which was €3.112 million as compared to the total amount paid in standard planning application fees in the same year, €40.605 million. Considering that the application fees for retention permission are three times the amount of the standard planning application fees, these figures illustrate relatively low levels of applications for retention permission.
In addition to the application fee for retention permission being a multiple of the standard application fee, the Planning and Development Act 2000 specifically prevents the use of an application for retention permission as a defence against a prosecution for unauthorised development. These two provisions are intended to ensure that retention permission will be used only to rectify genuine mistakes and not as a means of circumventing controls. I intend to keep the position relating to applying for retention permission under close review.
444 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of funding for the development of a project (details supplied) in County Cork. [7724/05]
In January 2004, local authorities were asked to review their capital programmes for library development and to submit a prioritised list of proposals which they wished to have considered by my Department in its current review of the programme. In its submission, Cork County Council has listed Mitchelstown fourth in order of priority. Based on the submissions received, my Department's review of the public library capital projects is at an advanced stage with a view to finalising a public library capital expenditure programme for 2005-2007.
445 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will approve funding for Waterford County Council for remediation of four storm overflows in the Tramore sewerage collection system which need to be upgraded to comply with Department regulations and to complement the new wastewater treatment plant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7775/05]
An application for funding under the water services investment programme 2004-06 has been submitted to my Department by Waterford County Council in respect of proposals to upgrade to a number of storm water overflows as part of the ongoing Tramore sewerage scheme. The proposals are being examined in the Department and will be dealt with as quickly as possible.
446 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if incentives can or will be offered to enable extra recycling facilities to be put in place to serve north Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7776/05]
Waste management planning is primarily a function of local government. Local authorities must take responsibility for ensuring that facilities identified as being necessary in their regional waste management plans are provided.
Since 2002, over €50 million has been allocated nationally from the environment fund, financed by the proceeds generated by the landfill and plastic bag levies, in capital grant assistance towards the provision of waste recycling and recovery facilities by local authorities. Of this amount, €1.971 million has been allocated to Kildare County Council for the establishment of two civic amenity recycling centres and one composting facility. This has been supplemented by capital funding from Repak, the packaging waste compliance scheme established by industry to co-ordinate and finance the collection and recovery of packaging waste, towards the expansion of the bring bank network in County Kildare.
The level of capital funding provided towards the implementation of the regional waste management plans has been a primary driver in the significant progress being made towards meeting our ambitious recycling and recovery targets. A further call for projects requiring funding under my Department's waste infrastructure capital grants scheme has recently been issued. I hope to allocate a fourth major tranche of funding before the summer.
In addition to providing capital support to local authorities for recycling and recovery facilities, funding is also provided from the environment fund on an ongoing basis towards the operating costs of such facilities. To date, Kildare County Council has received €229,000 towards the increasing operating costs of its bring banks and civic amenity recycling centres.
447 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the principle of no taxation without representation; efforts to ensure Irish citizens living, for example, in the UK who are taxed under Irish tax and PRSI regulations and being in receipt of a Department of Education and Science pension are granted the franchise which tax payers living in Ireland have as a right; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7823/05]
The statutory requirements for voting are set out in the existing electoral codes. To be able to vote, a person's name must be entered in the register of electors for a constituency in the State in which the person ordinarily resides. The person's citizenship determines the polls at which he or she is entitled to vote. Irish citizens registered to vote may vote at all polls. Postal voting is provided for in respect of certain categories of person as specified in electoral law. There are no proposals to alter the existing arrangements.
448 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when funding will be sanctioned for the €1.648 million package of works required on the Dooncarton Mountain, Glengad, Pullathomas, north Mayo to provide kinetic barriers, drainage and other works required to protect the livelihoods of the residents in the area. [7837/05]
In October 2004, Mayo County Council submitted to the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, the Office of Public Works and my Department, a report by an implementation working group, identifying outstanding protective works needed at this site with an estimated cost of €1.685 million. My Department's primary concern with works at this site was with public roads and bridges and the provision of emergency accommodation. The total cost of repair works to public roads and bridges, which came to €1,662,382, has now been fully recouped to Mayo County Council and my Department has no further commitment in this regard. My Department has also provided assistance of €36,181 towards the cost of emergency accommodation. No funds are available to my Department from which other grants could be made to Mayo County Council for this site.
Since the establishment of the local government fund in 1999, record levels of funding have been channelled through the local government system to improve the quality and range of services provided to local communities. The general purpose allocation for Mayo County Council for its day-to-day operational costs in 2004 was €29.75 million, an increase of 17.5% over the corresponding allocation for 2003 and a significant 152% higher than 1997's allocation. The allocation for 2005 is €32.39 million, a further 8.9% increase over the 2004 allocation. The level of increase provided for Mayo County Council in 2005 is higher than the average increase provided to local authorities and is more than double the rate of inflation.
449 Ms Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of persons employed in his private office and his constituency office; the annual amount paid in respect of salaries and expenses in regard to each such office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7933/05]
There are 7.8 staff assigned to my private office and six staff working in my constituency office. A breakdown of the number of staff and the equivalent grade concerned is listed in the following tables.
|
Grade |
Full-Time Equivalent |
|
Special Adviser (Principal Officer) |
0.8 |
|
Executive Officer (Private Secretary) |
1 |
|
Executive Officer |
3 |
|
Clerical Officer |
3 |
|
Grade |
Full-Time Equivalent |
|
Personal Assistant (Higher Executive Officer) |
1 |
|
Personal Secretary (Executive Officer) |
1 |
|
Executive Officer |
2 |
|
Clerical Officer |
2 |
Remuneration of these staff is in accordance with the appropriate published standard Civil Service scales for clerical officer, executive officer, higher executive officer and principal officer. Both these offices are operating within their respective authorised numbers.
450 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8040/05]
451 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8041/05]
452 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8042/05]
453 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8043/05]
454 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8044/05]
455 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8045/05]
456 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8046/05]
457 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8047/05]
458 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8048/05]
459 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8049/05]
460 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8050/05]
461 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8051/05]
462 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8052/05]
463 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8053/05]
464 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8054/05]
465 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8055/05]
466 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8056/05]
467 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8057/05]
468 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8058/05]
469 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8059/05]
470 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8060/05]
471 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures which were followed to invite tenders for the contract to store the electronic voting machines by a local returning officer (details supplied); if national and local newspapers featured advertisements inviting tenders for storage facilities; if so, when these advertisements appeared; the number of tenders which were received; the cost of each; the lowest tender offered for the storage of this equipment; the person who was awarded the tender; if this was not the lowest tender submitted, the reason therefor; and if this tender included the storage of the electronic voting machines in addition to the ancillary equipment. [8061/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 450 to 471, inclusive, together.
The procurement of appropriate secure storage accommodation for electronic voting machines and ancillary equipment is the responsibility of returning officers, who are statutorily charged with conducting elections and referenda. My Department has written to returning officers requesting information on, inter alia, the procurement of such accommodation.
When the information has been received from all returning officers, my Department will communicate with the Committee of Public Accounts, which has recently considered this matter. My Department will arrange for the placing of the information in the Oireachtas Library. A copy will also be sent to the Deputy.
