Vol. 599 No. 4
10 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he intends to issue directives to the regulator with a view to speeding up access to the national grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8377/05]
17 Mr. English asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that he has issued the necessary instructions to ensure ready access to the national grid for alternative energy producers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8375/05]
36 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has received any communications from alternative energy producers requesting a more streamlined entry to the national grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8373/05]
117 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, as alleged, access to the national grid is expensive or otherwise prohibitive through long drawn out procedures or otherwise; if he intends to issue any policy directives arising from this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8525/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 10, 17, 36 and 117 together.
I have no function in the matter of access to the national grid network, which falls within the statutory responsibility of the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER. Also, I have no power to issue directions to the CER in the matter.
11 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that An Post is seeking a tariff increase from ComReg; if he has satisfied himself with the performance of An Post management in delivering a world class quality of postal service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8200/05]
I understand that An Post applied for a price increase to the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in May 2004. Under the European Communities (Postal Services) Regulations 2002, ComReg is the designated independent body responsible for pricing policy in the postal sector with regard to the universal service segment of the postal market. I have no function in any consideration of this matter nor in the timing of any decision by ComReg.
With regard to An Post delivering a world class quality of postal service, I refer to the last report published by ComReg on An Post's quality of service for the first nine months of 2004. The results for the third quarter were 78% for next day delivery, which shows an improvement on the results for the first six months at 70%. Improvement is notable in Dublin where the percentage of local mail delivered the next day was 82% compared with 80% for mail posted outside Dublin for local delivery.
I have made it clear to An Post that having secured substantial price increases in the recent past, the company should focus its efforts on providing quality services to customers, which is part of its universal service obligations.
12 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that all appropriate steps were taken to save the MediaLab Europe project in view of documents released under the Freedom of Information Acts, which showed that the project was crippled by weak management and tensions between its two main shareholders, the State and MIT; if he intends to undertake an investigation into the manner in which the project was run; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8209/05]
28 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the nature of his proposed consultation process with a view to establishing a new research entity at the former MediaLab Europe premises in the Digital Hub; when he expects that the process will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8210/05]
33 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position regarding the replacement of the anchor tenant at the Digital Hub; if any moneys spent to date are recoverable; his future plans for the Digital Hub project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8350/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 12, 28 and 33 together.
Since its inception, the Government, through the operation of an interdepartmental committee, has stayed in touch with the operation of MediaLab Europe, which was an independent company answerable to an independent board of directors. While it is acknowledged that research will generally require State support, the uniqueness of the MLE model, as presented initially to Government, was that it would be self funding by 2005. However, the financial situation deteriorated significantly in recent times due to MLE being unable to raise the necessary sponsorship and corporate income required and as envisaged in its business plan.
As it became clear that MediaLab Europe was not developing into a sustainable business model, my Department sought to engage with it in this regard. There were extensive and protracted discussions as I sought to find an appropriate and economically sustainable model for the continuance of MediaLab. Proposals I made in this regard were not accepted by MIT. The board of MediaLab took a decision, in light of its inability to raise financing, to close on a voluntary basis.
Financing provided to MediaLab Europe by the Government was in line with contractual commitments entered into by the Government. While current expenditure allocations to MediaLab are not recoverable, the Government retains full ownership of the MediaLab building.
I recently commenced a consultation with regard to the development of a new digital research entity in the previous MediaLab Europe building, located in the Digital Hub. It is proposed that the new entity would consider some research similar to that undertaken at MLE but that there would be greater focus on sustainable research and a more directive research in a new business model. I am also seeking better links to Irish universities, effective management and improved corporate governance, in accordance with general guidelines for State bodies.
The consultation focused on a number of topics, including research type; research area; preferred management approach; partnership requirement; preferred tender process; level of institutional interest in the project; fit with existing academic priorities and plans; funding issues; definition of intellectual property model; preferred approach to governance. The consultation process is now nearing completion and the Government will make decisions regarding the shape of a new research entity and how an organisation or consortium to manage the facility will be selected.
The separate Digital Hub project, managed by the independent Digital Hub Development Agency, continues to be successful in attracting digital industry tenants and operating community, educational and promotional initiatives. The Digital Hub Development Agency Act 2003 placed the Digital Hub Development Agency on a statutory footing. The agency has been successful in growing the cluster with over 40 companies now employing over 300 employees in the hub.
13 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he will make a decision on future support mechanisms for renewable energy generators. [8280/05]
21 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress made by the renewable energy development group which is chaired by his Department; if he has received a report from the group; his intentions arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8347/05]
49 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his targets to achieve less dependency on fossil fuels and the development of alternative energy sources; his plans to offer incentives in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8342/05]
62 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the role he believes that wind energy can play in meeting energy requirements in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8211/05]
110 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to support or encourage the production of alternative energy with particular reference to wind energy; if he has given any direction in this regard or intends to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8517/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 21, 49, 62 and 110 together.
The alternative energy requirement programme, AER, was introduced in the mid-1990s to support the construction of new renewable energy based electricity generating stations. The most recent round of competitive tendering, AER VI, is an appropriate opportunity to review the programme and explore new targets and alternative support mechanisms. To gauge market views on the most appropriate future policy initiatives, my Department conducted a public consultation process on future development of renewable energy which attracted 47 responses last year. This process was succeeded by the establishment of a renewable energy development group in May last year.
The group is chaired by my Department and comprises relevant experts from the administrative, industry and scientific sector, including the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, ESB national grid and the Economic and Social Research Institute, ESRI, among others. The group is at the end of its current work phase and its report is expected to be ready shortly. I cannot make predictions on the role of wind energy or any other renewable energy technology until the group's report is to hand.
The work of the group has been informed by the renewable energy consultation process and the submissions made in response to our consultation document. Other inputs to the group came from direct presentations to the group from industry representatives and their associations; analysis conducted by subgroups of the group itself; the work of the CHP strategy group and the bioenergy strategy group.
It is important to optimise the contribution of renewable energy technologies, including wind energy, to electricity production on a basis that is fair to all parties, including consumers, and to ensure that it can be integrated safely and easily into the national network. The renewable energy development group will advise on future options on policies, targets, programmes and support measures to develop the increased use of renewable energy in the electricity market to 2010 and beyond.
The group's report, which is due shortly, will form the basis of my future policy decisions on the increased penetration of renewable energy technologies in the electricity market and will seek to ensure that developers can make a reasonable rate of return on renewable energy projects while ensuring that the interests of national competitiveness and the ultimate burden of cost to the final consumer are all fully taken into consideration.
14 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has evaluated or compared the wind energy potential here with Scandinavian countries; if he intends to issue directives in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8364/05]
I have not evaluated or compared the wind energy potential here with Scandinavian countries. The question of issuing directives on this matter does not arise.
I draw attention to one significant difference, namely, that we are dealing with an island system whereas the Scandinavian countries are heavily interconnected. In 1997, a study was conducted on the total renewable energy resource available in Ireland under various assumptions. The net finding was that in the wind energy category there is an abundant resource. However, the challenge in harnessing wind energy in the short term for electricity production is to do so in a manner which integrates the technology into the national network without compromising continuity of supply to domestic and commercial consumers.
Subsequent to this initial resource audit, the Commission for Energy Regulation commissioned a consortium, led by Garrad Hassan Wind Energy Consultants, to carry out a study entitled, "The Impacts of Increased Levels of Wind Penetration on the Electricity Systems of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland". This study was completed in February 2003. The report found that the amounts of wind generation which could be accepted at selected 110 kV transmission system grid supply points without substantial reinforcements and, importantly, without curtailment of wind production but with substantive changes to current system planning criteria were: 790 MW by the year 2005; 1040 MW by the year 2007; 1140 MW by the year 2010.
The need to examine these constraints arises from the random nature of the wind resource which cannot be increased or decreased as an energy source for electricity production in immediate response to changes in consumer demand. The current target for wind powered projects does not raise serious technical issues for system stability. However, planning for future programmes at increased penetration levels of wind powered electricity generating plant does raise significant technical issues which must be addressed in order to maintain system security for electricity consumers.
The Commission for Energy Regulation, which is independent in the discharge of its functions, is examining issues of continuing relevance regarding the grid code for wind powered generators. I have no function in national grid matters, which is primarily a matter for the network operators which in turn are regulated by the Commission for Energy Regulation. From my point of view, it is important to optimise the contribution of wind energy based electricity to the national supply on a basis that is fair to all parties, including consumers, and that it can be integrated safely and easily into the national network. I am confident that the current work of my Department, the Commission for Energy Regulation, Sustainable Energy Ireland and representative associations of the wind energy sector will ensure future challenging targets can be delivered.
15 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his estimate of the likely cost to consumers of the proposed migration to digital broadcasting; if he intends to issue a White Paper or review on the digital switch over and the implications for Irish broadcasters and viewers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8199/05]
A migration to digital broadcasting is under way in most EU countries. Different technologies apply to the broadcasting of television and radio services and new technologies are emerging all the time.
With regard to television broadcasting, Ireland's primary television stations are available throughout the country on a free to air basis through analogue terrestrial transmission. Free to air digital terrestrial television is not yet available in Ireland, although it is provided for under the Broadcasting Act 2001. Over time, the analogue terrestrial network must be upgraded to a digital network.
In the United Kingdom, customers switching from analogue to digital terrestrial television need to purchase a set-top box. These boxes cost approximately €60 for a basic model, with more expensive models available. The cost of the set-top box is the primary cost affecting viewers migrating from analogue to digital terrestrial television services and similar costs are likely to apply in Ireland.
Digital cable/MMDS and digital satellite multi-channel services are currently available in Ireland, on a subscription and pay per view basis. Chorus, ntl and Sky are the principal operators offering digital television services and all charge various viewers on an ongoing basis, generally based on a monthly subscription. Customers choosing subscription based digital television services in a migration to digital television will need to meet the charges placed by the providers.
I am currently reviewing options for the development of digital terrestrial television in Ireland. In this regard, I have asked my Department to develop a digital terrestrial television demonstration project this year. As the digital terrestrial television demonstration is developed I will outline my intentions regarding possible dates for a switch over from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasts. Digital radio transmissions are provided in some countries through the digital audio broadcasting format, DAB. I will examine possibilities for the development of DAB services and trials in the coming year.
16 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals for the use of reserve funds available from licence fees throughout the broadcasting sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8384/05]
I assume the Deputy is referring to the schemes to be introduced under the Broadcasting (Funding) Act 2003. The purpose of that Act was to establish a special fund to encourage both private and public broadcasters to include additional programming of a particular character in their programme schedules. The Act provided that the 5% of the net proceeds of the television licence fee should be paid into the fund from 2003 onwards. At the end of 2004 almost €17.5 million had been paid into the fund.
The legislation, which was enacted in December 2003, provided that the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, BCI, would have responsibility for drawing up schemes through which the fund could be accessed. During the course of 2004 the BCI developed and published a draft scheme and consulted widely about it. In December, the BCI submitted a scheme to me for my approval as required under section 2(1) of the Act. The scheme will also have to be notified to the EU Commission as a new state aid. My Department is in contact with the EU Commission in this regard. Once a scheme has been approved, it is a matter for the BCI to invite applications and to make awards. I have no role in that process.
I view the special broadcasting fund as a positive initiative and look forward to listening to and watching some of the new programmes that will be broadcast on Irish radio and television services later this year as a result.
18 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the areas of the country which have, to date, benefited from the provision of broadband facilities; his proposals for the future in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8356/05]
A total of 19 metropolitan area networks have been completed under the first phase of my Department's regional broadband programme and a further seven are under construction. These fibre optic trunk networks have been built in association with the local and regional authorities and are being managed for the State, allowing private sector telecommunications companies open access.
The second phase of the programme, which is now under way, will deliver high speed broadband infrastructure to more than 92 towns with a population of 1,500 and over that have not yet been provided with a satisfactory broadband service by the private sector. For smaller towns and rural communities, my Department offers the county and group broadband scheme, under which funding assistance is available to enable the provision of broadband for the community using the most suitable technology for that area.
In addition to these initiatives, my Department, in association with the Department of Education and Science and the industry, is delivering broadband connectivity to all primary and post-primary schools in the country by the end of 2005. Full details of these programmes are on my Department's website www.dcmnr.gov.ie.
19 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when and how he intends to transpose the European renewables directive into Irish law. [8282/05]
The renewables directive addresses an obligation to member states to establish national programmes to increase the gross consumption of renewable energy based electricity by 2010. The target addressed to Ireland in the directive is 13.2% of gross electricity consumption. The directive imposes other related obligations to support the attainment of the overall target.
In Ireland, the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 provided for the full liberalisation of the green electricity market five years ahead of full liberalisation of the electricity market. The legislative tools were therefore in place, as part of the 1999 Act, to promote a dedicated green electricity market in Ireland prior to the publication of the renewables directive in 2001.
Article 9 of the directive required member states to notify the form and method of transposition of the directive to the EU Commission. The Department has made the necessary report to the EU Commission. No adverse finding has been made by the Commission on the means of transposition. In addition to the report to the Commission, Articles 3 and 6 of the directive require member states to publish reports on future targets and the various administrative actions taken to deliver on the obligations arising from the directive. These reports have been published by my Department and can be accessed on my Department's website, www.dcmnr.ie.
From my point of view, the priority is to optimise the contribution of wind energy based electricity to national supply on a basis that is practical, affordable and consistent with maintaining systems security. The primary concerns should, therefore, concentrate on the practical administrative arrangements in place to administer and regulate the sector rather than concentrate unduly on the underlying legal basis. I am confident that the current work of my Department, the Commission for Energy Regulation, Sustainable Energy Ireland and representative associations of the wind energy sector within the renewable energy development group will ensure the full requirements of the directive can be delivered on time.
20 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects to appoint consultants to review the electricity sector in this country; the terms of reference of the review; when he expects that the review will be completed; if the Government has any plans to privatise all or any part of the ESB; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8213/05]
I expect that consultants will be appointed to undertake the review of the electricity sector in Ireland in May 2005. In regard to the specific terms of reference, I refer the Deputy to the tender document published on the Government's public procurement website at http://www.etenders.gov.ie.
As I confirmed in reply to a question on this issue on 8 February 2005, the review will comprise a comprehensive examination of the Irish electricity sector. This will include a detailed examination of the ESB's structure and its dominance. It is estimated that the review and report will take approximately six months.
On the question of the plans, if any, that the Government has regarding the ESB, I have previously confirmed my opposition to the privatisation of the transmission and distribution systems, which are critical national assets that should remain in public ownership. I believe there is strong consensus within Government and elsewhere about this. I have also previously stated my opposition to any privatisation that would result in the creation of a monopoly or near monopoly in the power generation sector.
Notwithstanding this, I will ask the consultants to examine all options as to the future shape of the ESB and, in particular, how to deal with its dominance in power generation. Finding an effective solution to this issue is critical for ensuring the future, orderly development of the market. The consultants will, therefore, be required to identify a range of alternative structures for the ESB and to identify those they consider to be the most appropriate. If the recommendations lead towards a change in the structure of the ESB, I would expect them to be supported by a detailed business case for any proposals.
22 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he expects TG4 to proceed on a stand alone basis in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8310/05]
TG4 is primarily an Irish language television station. It first broadcast on 31 October 1996 and operates as part of the RTE family of services.
The Government is committed to supporting the development of Irish language broadcasting, and to the establishment of TG4 as a separate statutory body, as provided for in the Broadcasting Act 2001. The Government recently agreed that I would indicate my intention to appoint a date towards the end of 2005 or early 2006 as the establishment day for Teilifís na Gaeilge. The Government decision also provided for the establishment of a project management group to oversee the establishment of Teilifís na Gaeilge as an independent entity.
The group will be chaired by this Department and will include officials from the Department of Finance and the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs along with RTE and TG4. The group's first task will be to prepare a detailed implementation plan for the separate establishment of TG4.
23 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress made with regard to the inquiry ordered by his Department into alleged irregularities in the fishing industry in Killybegs, County Donegal; the main conclusions of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8219/05]
The matters to which the Deputy refers are the subject of independent investigations by the Garda Síochána. The investigation and all issues relating to it are matters for the Garda. I have received no report on the investigations. It would be inappropriate for me to comment further or make a statement at this time.
24 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Ireland’s position in the European league in respect of the utilisation of alternative energy fuels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8354/05]
25 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the measures he has taken to try and ensure that the Government meets the percentage biofuel targets set by the European Union. [8283/05]
32 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the degree to which it is hoped to replace existing fuels with biodiesels over the next five years; if he proposes to issue policy directives with a view to advancing targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8359/05]
42 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in view of the proposed closure of the Carlow sugar factory and the failure to develop a new biofuel production industry from such facilities, his Department has commissioned research to investigate the potential for new industrial development and employment from such renewable indigenous fuel sources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8286/05]
53 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to issue directives to encourage the production of biofuels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8365/05]
60 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the potential from the use of biodiesel; if he intends to issue policy directives in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8367/05]
63 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his policy objectives in regard to biofuel production and in keeping with the Kyoto Protocol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8358/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 24, 25, 32, 42, 53, 60 and 63 together.
My Department is responsible for the promotion and development of renewable energy, including biofuels, and I am committed to the development and promotion of a biofuels market in Ireland's transport fuel sector. An interdepartmental group has been set up, chaired by my Department and comprising officials from Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Departments of Transport, Agriculture and Food, and Finance. The group is considering policy options for the development of a biofuels sector in Ireland.
As part of the work of this group, a liquid biofuels strategy study was published by SEI in December, which examines the full range of options and potential supports for liquid biofuels development in Ireland, including bioethanol and biodiesel. The report is being considered as part of the overall policy objective to increase market penetration of biofuels in Ireland, which is currently at a very low level.
In March 2004, my Department secured an amendment to the Finance Act 1999, which provides for the introduction of a scheme of excise tax relief for biofuels. The purpose of the scheme is to allow qualified and conditional relief from excise on biofuel used in approved pilot projects for either the production of biofuel or the testing of the technical viability of biofuel for use as a motor fuel. It is envisaged that the scheme will encompass market development for pure plant oil, biodiesel and bioethanol.
The European Commission has now given state aid clearance for the scheme and the Minister for Finance has introduced the necessary commencement order. The scheme will be publicly advertised over the coming days and interested parties will be invited to apply for excise relief, through a competitive "call for proposals" process. Under the scheme, excise relief may be granted for pilot projects producing up to 6 million litres of pure plant oil, 1 million litres of biodiesel and 1 million litres of bioethanol.
Sustainable Energy Ireland is also funding a number of biomass projects and studies through its renewable energy research development and demonstration programme. Under the programme, Sustainable Energy Ireland offers capital grant aid for biofuels market demonstration projects in the pure plant oil, biodiesel and bioethanol categories. Funding of €250,000 has already been awarded by SEI to one company which is demonstrating the feasibility of producing and selling vegetable oil locally as a transport fuel. It is intended that further grant aid will be available under the programme for biofuel demonstration projects.
It is anticipated that these initial measures will lead to market penetration of biofuels of 0.13% within two years. Further measures to increase market penetration over a longer timeframe are currently being considered but no targets have been set as yet, nor is this a requirement of the EU biofuels directive. The biofuels directive sets indicative targets for market penetration of 2% by end 2005 and 5.75% by end 2010. The targets in the directive are indicative and not mandatory and many member states, including Ireland, would not be in a position to meet the 2% target by end 2005. Ireland is starting from a low current production base and the 2% target therefore represents a considerable challenge.
Under the EU biofuels directive, member states were required to submit a report to the Commission in 2004, giving details of current market penetration of biofuels and projected targets for 2005. The reports by member states are now available on the Commission's website and indicate that market penetration of biofuels is also low in many other EU member states. Only six countries have identified current market penetration levels of 1% or higher, with a further nine countries, including Ireland, identifying current market penetration levels ranging from 0% to 0.3%. Five countries have not identified current market penetration levels and five have not identified targets for end 2005. Only 20 member states have reports posted on the Commission's website.
The question of producing biofuel from sugar beet at the Irish Sugar plant would ultimately be a commercial matter for Irish Sugar Ltd. In the event that Irish Sugar Ltd. wished to initiate a new proposal for the production of bioethanol, it is likely that while some existing material handling elements and buildings might be useful components of a bioethanol plant, most — and possibly all — of the plant and buildings would require to be newly installed or built. It is understood, however, that following the closure of the Carlow plant, Irish Sugar Ltd. intends to process the full Irish sugar quota at its Mallow plant.
26 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he will end the imposition of the present operating hours for Killybegs and other major ports and restore full landing times at ports which are essential, particularly for the pelagic industry. [8068/05]
New EU control requirements relating to pelagic fisheries were introduced in 2004. These requirements were introduced to meet concerns about possible illegal fish landings in these fisheries across Europe. Such control is a key element in fisheries management policy and enables the sustainable management and development of the fisheries concerned.
The requirements created new and more onerous obligations for member states to ensure all landings of pelagic fish over ten tonnes were weighed in the presence of controllers. In implementing the new EU procedures, my Department has acceded to industry requests to allow landings at a variety of ports. The immediate impact of that decision was that some restrictions had to be placed on permitted landing times. In order to implement this with the available resources, it was necessary to restrict the landing times in the designated pelagic ports. The new controls were extended to the south and east coast with the inclusion of the Celtic Sea and Irish Sea herring fisheries from 2005 onwards.
While I accept that it is desirable to provide 24 hour cover for major ports where possible this has to be balanced by the legal obligations which the State carries to ensure adequate control presence at those ports when they are open. In this respect I recognise the need to augment the Department's seafood control resources so as to permit longer opening times at key ports. My Department is currently pursuing a case for the necessary additional resources.
27 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the efforts being made to address excessive roaming charges applied to Irish mobile phone users; if his attention has been drawn to the new European Commission investigation into the fees that mobile phone firms charge their subscribers when they travel abroad; his views on the recent ComReg/Ofcom report on cross-Border telecoms issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8215/05]
I have no function in setting pricing for phone services. The regulation of telecommunications operators, including pricing for mobile services, is the responsibility of the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in accordance with the requirements of the Communications (Regulation) Act 2002 and regulations made under the EU regulatory framework for electronic communications.
International roaming has been identified by regulators throughout Europe and the European Commission as a significant issue to be addressed. ComReg is actively working with other members of the European regulators group in this area. This co-ordinated approach is necessary, as any action taken by ComReg on international roaming would primarily benefit mobile phone users visiting Ireland and would not, on its own, benefit Irish mobile users travelling abroad. A European regulators group composed of national regulators, including ComReg, is now examining this area. The national regulators group aims to present preliminary results of its work in this area in May 2005.
On the issues of cross-Border roaming, I welcome the publication of the joint ComReg and Ofcom report on cross-Border telecoms issues. The report covers cross-Border mobile telephone roaming; cross-Border leased line costs; telephone dialling codes and illegal broadcast radio stations operating in Border areas. I am delighted that ComReg and Ofcom have adopted a common approach to tackle issues of mutual concern to businesses and the general public on both sides of the Border.
On 19 January 2005, I issued a press release with my Northern counterpart Minister, Mr. Barry Gardiner MP, which welcomed the publication of this report and expressed concern at mobile phone customers being caught by roaming mobile signals along the Border and incurring international charges for what they think are national calls. I support the report's call for clearer information for customers on all-island tariff options and how to minimise roaming costs. I also support the report's call for the mobile operators to enter into joint arrangements on a cross-Border basis to offer customers all-island tariffs.
While I acknowledge that a number of operators already offer all-island tariff options, it is disappointing that where these are available they are limited to bill paying customers and business contracts. All-island rates should be extended to pay as you go mobile users, who represent around 70% of the mobile customer base. I appreciate that entering into such arrangements would involve business decisions which are a matter for the operators. For my part, I have already taken the opportunity, in meetings with the operators, to raise this issue and will continue to do so.
I look forward to the market's response to the report and to ComReg and Ofcom continuing to co-operate on this issue.
29 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has considered commissioning independent research on the possible future availability and price of oil to the Irish market in view of the fact that international oil prices are again approaching a price of $55 a barrel. [8279/05]
While I have not undertaken any specific research on the future availability and price of oil to the Irish market, Ireland, as a member of the European Union and through its membership of the International Energy Agency, IEA, has access to relevant research in these areas.
With regard to the future availability of oil, the question of how long world oil reserves will last is the focus of many and often conflicting research studies, views and opinions. The IEA published its 2004 edition of its world energy outlook on 26 October 2004. In this outlook, the IEA indicated that demand for oil will continue to expand, at a rate of 1.6% a year, from a current level of 82 million barrels a day, and that resources of conventional crude oil are adequate to meet demand until 2030.
Over the years, oil markets have been severely tested by geopolitical developments in the oil producing regions of the world. This is particularly true of recent times with geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the conflict in Iraq and tensions in Nigeria and Venezuela. Notwithstanding this, however, there has been no recent disruption to oil supplies and global production continues to keep ahead of demand. The price of oil is set by the international oil market, with supply being influenced by OPEC policies. The current high price reflects a complex interaction of unanticipated strong demand, tight capacities and geopolitical uncertainties.
The Irish oil market is an open and private sector one. Retail prices take account of factors such as international market price, importation and distribution costs, and euro/dollar fluctuations. Ireland's high dependence on oil imports makes us price takers, sensitive to the volatility of the markets.
30 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason the Government has decided to take the Postal (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2001 off the Dáil Order Paper for Second Stage; the Government’s view on the long promised employee share ownership plan; and when this proposal will be brought before the Oireachtas. [8194/05]
The Postal (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill which was published in 2001 provides for the issue, sale and disposal of shares in An Post in the context of an employee share ownership plan, ESOP, and possible strategic alliance. The Bill also contains ancillary provisions arising out of a possible change of ownership.
The financial and industrial relations environment in An Post has changed substantially since 2001. Following operational losses of almost €43 million in 2003, the An Post board approved a recovery strategy for the company. The implementation of the recovery strategy is contingent on agreement with the trades unions to radical restructuring. Negotiations have been ongoing with the trades unions for over a year now and critical aspects are being considered by the Labour Court.
With the industrial relations situation in An Post at a delicate and critical stage, it would seem prudent to defer consideration of the issues provided for in the Bill until a resolution is found to those issues. For this reason, a decision has been taken, in conjunction with the Chief Whip, to withdraw the Bill from the Dáil Order Paper. The motion was passed in the Dáil on Tuesday last.
The Government and I remain fully committed to an ESOP in An Post if it can be demonstrated that real transformation has occurred and that the cost savings envisaged in the ESOP have been achieved. If and when this is achieved, the Bill can be restored to the Dáil Order Paper.
31 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options for the future of broadcasting by way of radio and television; the methodology envisaged to fund the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8378/05]
37 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans for the future of the broadcasting industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8382/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 37 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to today's Question No. 7. My core policy objectives for the development of the broadcasting sector are detailed in my Department's statement of strategy 2003 to 2005. These objectives are: to create an environment that encourages the maintenance of high quality Irish radio and television services by both independent broadcasters and RTE; to secure a viable future for high quality public service broadcasting; to seek to retain access to a range of high quality programming in analogue and digital form, on a universal and free-to-air basis.
My key priorities for achieving these objectives include the following: developing the regulatory framework by bringing forward a Bill to provide for the establishment of a single content regulator for both public and private broadcasters and to establish RTE on the lines of a company under the Companies Acts; taking steps to establish TG4 as an independent entity; ensuring adequate public funding for RTE and TG4 so that they can deliver on their statutory mandate; building on progress made in maximising the effectiveness of television licence fee collection; developing proposals to ensure that in a digital era Irish viewers continue to enjoy access to a range of high quality programming; and bringing forward proposals for the future licensing of radio services in Ireland.
I am of the opinion that Irish viewers will be best served by a broadcasting environment that includes a strong public service broadcasting presence in the form of RTE and an independent TG4, together with private broadcasters. Digital television offers opportunities for Irish viewers to avail of an increased number of broadcasting services, including new services of particular relevance or interest to Irish audiences.
34 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which broadband has been provided countrywide to date; the extent to which the programme is in line with projections; when he expects targets to be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8357/05]
38 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to enhance the availability of e-technology to both the business and domestic sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8343/05]
44 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department intends to issue tenders for public private partnerships to part finance the roll out of broadband to every single home and business in the State given the success of such initiatives in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8196/05]
46 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which state-of-the-art communications technology is currently available or will be soon available in all areas throughout the country; the region or regions most deficient in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8315/05]
51 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Ireland’s position in the European league in respect of broadband provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8355/05]
52 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the way in which it is intended to improve Ireland’s position relative to other European countries in the area of telecommunications, with particular reference to the need to meet the ongoing demands of the domestic and business sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8312/05]
113 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the way in which he proposes to ensure that telecommunication services here in terms of costs and effectiveness are on a par with those available in other jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8520/05]
122 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that sufficient competition has been generated in the provision of broadband facilities nationwide to meet the desired requirements and objectives; if he intends to issue any directives in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8531/05]
124 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that the proper climate exists for the development of competition in the provision of modern telecommunications facilities with particular reference to broadband and mobile and fixed line telephone technology services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8533/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 34, 38, 44, 46, 51, 52, 113, 122 and 124 together.
The provision of broadband facilities is a matter in the first instance for the private sector telecommunications companies operating in a fully liberalised market. A number of factors determine where and when broadband services are offered in any area, including the potential number of customers, the level of investment required, and so on.
My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit, in co-operation with the local and regional authorities. The programme is building high-speed open access broadband networks in almost 120 cities and towns that will be used by private sector companies to offer services at competitive prices.
A significant feature of the programme is the type of technology used in the metropolitan area networks, MANs. The MANs are fibre based, offering speeds and capacity many thousands of times greater than those available over the copper telephone networks. The MANs are being built in association with the local and regional authorities and will remain in State ownership, which is an important consideration for the future. Nineteen MANs have now been completed on time and on budget, and a further seven are under construction. A number of the completed MANs are already carrying commercial traffic.
For smaller towns and rural communities my Department also administers the county and group broadband scheme, under which grant aid of up to 55% of set-up costs is available. The programme is driven by the broadband needs of the community, and addresses those needs by funding the most appropriate broadband technology for each particular application. We are also rolling broadband out to all schools in the country by the end of 2005. This involves 4,200 schools and 4,200 communities.
My Department supports multiple technology solutions and choice in carrier and technology. Although more than 86% of Irish broadband customers use digital subscriber lines, not every telephone line is suitable for this technology, and in such cases another technology must be considered, such as wireless, satellite or cable. The programme will therefore promote the roll out of a range of broadband services by a variety of service providers in those areas that would otherwise go unserved by the private sector alone.
There are 1.4 million fixed-line telephone consumers in Ireland. We estimate that there are now in excess of 130,000 true broadband consumers, which is almost 9% market penetration. This is up from around 1,000 in March 2003. The latest figures from the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, indicate that 40% of Irish homes have a personal computer, compared with the EU-15 average of 45%, and 40% of Irish homes have access to the Internet. By the end of March 2005 Eircom expects to have over 80% population coverage for DSL, and the company aims to have 90% of their lines DSL-enabled by March 2006.
The incontrovertible facts are that we are the lowest cost country in the OECD for international broadband; our regional broadband pricing is now on a par with the best in Europe — after Government intervention — and the price of the basic broadband package is at the EU average. Ireland is also the fastest growing broadband economy in the EU.
There are 45 different broadband offerings across a variety of technologies. In essence, there are broadband technologies to reach any broadband consumer in Ireland right now. I believe that the industry target should be 500,000 real broadband consumers by the end of 2006. That represents more than one third of the telecommunications market. Internet penetration will continue to grow because broadband is not the only means of accessing the Internet.
The Government's broadband target is to be in the top half of EU countries by the end of 2007. That means a market penetration rate of in the region of 14%. That target is within early reach.
35 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has met the Irish Postmasters’ Union since he became Minister; if he will comment on the valuable proposals of the union to maintain the important rural postal service and especially the need to fully computerise the rural post office network; the need for full transparency from An Post management in regard to social welfare and other contracts; the need for the State to fund the public service obligation of the post office network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8193/05]
On 15 November last, I met with the executive of the Irish Postmasters' Union which represents postmasters and postmistresses who are responsible for the running of the sub-post office network on a contract basis. I outlined to them my commitment, and that of the Government, to the retention of a viable and sustainable post office network meeting the needs of customers with attractive products and services. I listened with interest to their views and proposals in regard to the development of the network.
Areas discussed included financial issues affecting rural post offices, as well as computerisation and business development for post offices. I was pleased to hear that they are keen to enhance the range of products and services available through the network. For my part, I encouraged the union to work closely with An Post to continue the development process.
The primary responsibility for the development of the post office network remains with An Post, and while the Government will support the network in any way it can and has demonstrated its commitment in a tangible fashion with a €12.7 million capital injection in 2003, the way forward is for all stakeholders, including the IPU, to continue to work with An Post in enhancing existing services and to build on existing strengths to develop new product offerings.
An Post is a commercial State body. The contracts between the company and the Department of Social and Family Affairs and other bodies, are commercial contracts and, therefore, are a matter for the management of An Post.
On the matter of the automation of the network which was completed in 1997, it has only been in very exceptional circumstances — such as an existing automated office closing and its equipment being transferred to a suitable neighbouring location which transacts significant volumes of welfare business — that further offices have been automated. Nevertheless, An Post will undertake a pilot project to automate a selected number of non-automated offices to gauge the effect on new business.
Finally, in regard to the imposition of a public service obligation, in addition to the Government injection of €12.7 million in 2003, the network also benefits from significant contracts with the Department of Social and Family Affairs for social welfare payments, and the National Treasury Management Agency for Government savings products. It is not envisaged at this stage that public funding will be provided to An Post to meet its universal service obligations.
39 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when and how he will be authorised to issue directions to the energy regulator on matters of energy and electricity policy. [8284/05]
Currently, I have certain limited statutory powers to give a policy direction or directions to the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, solely in relation to electricity trading arrangements.
As is now common practice with other sectoral regulators, I propose, in line with Government policy and subject to Government approval, to take powers to issue policy directions of a general nature to the CER. Such a provision is included in the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, which is currently being drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel. This Bill is scheduled for publication in the second quarter of 2005.
40 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans for the distribution of the television licence reserve fund; the full extent of this fund at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8311/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 16.
I assume the Deputy is referring to the schemes to be introduced under the Broadcasting (Funding) Act 2003. The purpose of that Act was to establish a special fund to encourage both private and public broadcasters to include additional programming of a particular character in their programme schedules.
The Act provided that 5% of the net proceeds of the television licence fee should be paid into the fund from 2003 onwards. At the end of 2004 almost €17.5 million had been paid into the fund.
The legislation, which was enacted in December 2003, provided that the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, BCI, would have responsibility for drawing up schemes through which the fund could be accessed. During the course of 2004 the BCI developed and published a draft scheme and consulted widely in regard to it. In December the BCI submitted a scheme to me for my approval as required under section 2(1) of the Act.
The scheme will also have to be notified to the EU Commission as a new state aid. My Department is in contact with the EU Commission in this regard. Once a scheme has been approved, it is a matter for the BCI to invite applications and to make awards. I have no role in that process.
I view the special broadcasting fund as a positive initiative and look forward to listening to and watching some of the new programmes that will be broadcast on Irish radio and television services later this year as a result.
41 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the matters discussed at his meeting with the chairman and deputy chairman of the ESB on 17 February 2005; if he has received the review of the roles and responsibility of the deputy chairman of the company, which he has asked a person (details supplied) to undertake; if it is intended to publish the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8212/05]
My intervention was designed to remove the threat to electricity supplies. I spoke to both parties about the question of the role of the deputy chairman.
The press statement which I issued after the meeting represents the outcome of the discussions. I confirmed the deputy chairman's position and stated that it had been agreed that the role and functions of the deputy chairman position needed to be clearly defined, particularly in the light of best corporate governance practice. My Department has recently finalised terms of reference for a review of these issues and Mr. Tom Healy, chief executive of the Irish Stock Exchange, has agreed to undertake the review.
43 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he will report to Dáil Éireann on any plans to provide market support mechanisms for biomass given its potential for Ireland as an energy source; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8205/05]
In December 2003 my Department, in association with SEI, set up a bioenergy strategy group, BSG, to consider the policy options and support mechanisms available to Government to stimulate increased use of biomass for energy conversion, and to make specific recommendations for action to increase the penetration of biomass energy in Ireland. Membership of the BSG comprised representatives of various Departments as well as State agencies in the agriculture and energy sectors and industry representatives.
In tandem with this development, the Department launched a consultation process on future development of renewable energy generally in Ireland. Following on this consultation process, and to ensure future development of our renewable resources, including biomass resources, the renewable energy development group was established on 6 May 2004. The group is chaired by my Department and comprises relevant experts from the administrative, industry and scientific sector including the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, ESB national grid and the Economic and Social Research Institute, ESRI, amongst others.
The bioenergy strategy group is currently inputting into the renewable energy development group, which is at the end of its current work phase. The report of the renewable energy development group is expected shortly and will form the basis of my future policy decisions on the increased penetration of renewable energy technologies, including biomass, in the electricity market and will seek to ensure that developers can make a reasonable rate of return on renewable energy projects while ensuring that the interests of national competitiveness and the ultimate burden of cost to the final consumer are all fully taken into consideration. It is more than likely that I will publish the report but I have no particular plans in regard to reporting on it to Dáil Éireann.
45 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options for the future development of the electricity industry; the extent of any targets he has in mind for the use of wind, gas or alternative generation sources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8348/05]
With regard to the specific institutional arrangements and market structures that might apply to this sector, I refer the Deputy to the answer I have given to an earlier question today in regard to the review of the electricity sector that I have recently initiated. In addition, the promotion of renewable energy technologies in electricity production, the harnessing of energy from biomass products and the increased use of combined heat and power technology are key priorities of this Government and also of the European Union.
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, addresses an obligation of Ireland to deliver a programme capable of increasing the portion of electricity from renewable energy sources to 13.2% of total consumption by 2010. This is therefore the minimum target going forward.
Existing hydro facilities together with the current AER support programme and activity in the liberalised green market are capable of delivering most of the target in the directive. As the amount of wind energy, in particular, connected to or with binding connection offers increases, further penetration will require co-operation and co-ordination between my Department, Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, the market regulator, the CER, the electricity networks operators and developers.
I am happy to report all these key players, and more, have participated in the work of the renewable energy development group, which was established on 6 May last and which will report shortly. This report will at a minimum propose actions to ensure Ireland reaches its renewable energy target of 13.2% of gross electricity consumption by 2010 as set out in the directive.
In addition, in December 2003 my Department, in association with SEI, set up a bioenergy strategy group, BSG, to consider the policy options and support mechanisms available to Government to stimulate increased use of biomass for energy conversion, and to make specific recommendations for action to increase the penetration of biomass energy in Ireland. Membership of the BSG comprised representatives of various Departments as well as State agencies in the agriculture and energy sectors and industry representatives.
In March 2004 my Department, in association with SEI, also established a CHP policy group, to consider the most suitable and appropriate environments in which CHP can usefully be developed in Ireland, so as to maximise energy efficiency. Both the bioenergy strategy group and the CHP policy group are inputting into the renewable energy development group to ensure a comprehensive renewable energy policy is in place.
I am satisfied, therefore, that we have in place the necessary incremental steps to ensure increased penetration by renewable and alternative energy technologies in the energy markets. My objective is to put in place support regimes which will ensure orderly development and give reasonable return to project developers while also taking account of the interests of electricity consumers and consideration of national competitiveness.
47 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Irish mobile phone customers will have to pay significantly more than British subscribers to use third generation mobile phone technology; his views on whether Irish mobile phone charges continue to be excessive in comparison to European norms; if he has plans to tackle these excessive rates in the mobile phone industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8216/05]
56 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Ireland’s position in the European league in respect of mobile telephone costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8353/05]
64 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the high cost of mobile telephone use here as compared to other jurisdictions; if he has taken any policy initiatives arising from this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8309/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47, 56 and 64 together.
I have no function in setting pricing for phone services. The regulation of telecommunications operators, including pricing for mobile services, is the responsibility of the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in accordance with the requirements of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and regulations made under the EU regulatory framework for electronic communications.
48 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has received any further communications from ComReg which indicate any breach in health or safety standards arising from the use of hand held mobile telephones or communications masts, with particular reference to non-ionising radiation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8351/05]
In June of 2003 my Department instigated an extensive communications site survey programme to measure non-ionising radiation from telecommunications mast sites, which was carried out by the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, during 2003 and 2004. The total number of sites surveyed was 401. Not one of these sites was found to be in breach of international guidelines. Details of the results of this survey are available at the ComReg website, www.comreg.ie.
50 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that he has the necessary time and resources to respond within the one month deadline to the request by the European Commission for greater transparency on the application of public funding by RTE to public service broadcasting purposes; the timeframe within which the Government has to comply with the recommendations set out in the Commission’s letter; and the consequences of failing to meet those recommendations. [8277/05]
82 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the preliminary views received from the EU Commission on whether licence fee payments and other measures granted to RTE and TG4 are compatible with the common market; when he will complete his consideration of the views; if all possible steps will be taken to defend public service broadcasting here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8191/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 50 and 82 together.
The investigation into the funding of public service broadcasting in Ireland arose in the context of a formal complaint by TV3, made originally in 1999, alleging infringements of Articles 92-94 of the EC treaty relating to, among other things, the payment of licence fee revenue and direct grants to RTE. This is one of a number of complaints made by commercial television operators across the European Union against the funding arrangements in various member states for public service broadcasters.
The investigation so far has involved the gathering of information by the Commission with a view to assessing whether there is any substance to the complaint. The letter which was received from the Commission on 3 March sets out its preliminary views and is regarded as a necessary first step in what could be a lengthy investigative process. The letter also sets out a number of recommendations which the Commission considers must be implemented before the funding scheme for RTE can be considered as compatible with the relevant provisions of the EC treaty.
The recommendations proposed by the Commission are of a detailed legal and regulatory nature which I will carefully consider with the advice of the Attorney General and I will also consult with RTE over the next month, by which stage a reply is required by the Commission. I welcome the fact that the Commission has found that the financial measures granted in favour of RTE and TG4, in the form of licence fees, are considered as existing aid.
It is worth recalling that the funding arrangements for RTE have been in place since the enactment of the Broadcasting Authority Act in 1960. That Act provided that RTE would be funded from a combination of television licence fee income and commercial income principally generated from the sale of advertising. In the time since Ireland's accession to the EEC in 1973 there have been many developments and clarifications in relation to European state aid and competition laws. As regards public service broadcasting, as recently as October 2001 the EU Commission published its guidelines on how it would interpret and apply the treaty obligations in this sector. In view of this it is not surprising that the Commission has found that some aspects of Ireland's arrangements are incompatible with elements of the EC Treaty.
This matter is being given the highest priority within my Department. Under Article 17(2) of Council Regulation (EC) No. 659/1999 laying down rules for the application of Article 93 of the EC Treaty, Ireland will have one month to respond to the Commission's preliminary view. Article 17(2) also allows for an extension of the time where the Commission considers this to be justified.
Following this process the Commission may then issue a formal letter under Article 18 making recommendations proposing appropriate measures designed to bring the scheme into line with the treaty. Such a recommendation may propose: a substantive amendment of the aid scheme; the introduction of procedural requirements; or the abolition of the aid scheme.
Under Article 19 Ireland must accept or reject these recommendations. If Ireland rejects the proposals, the Commission may proceed with a formal investigation procedure under Article 4 of the regulation. This is a more formal procedure which imposes strict deadlines. Non-compliance with a negative decision at the end of this process will be pursued by the Commission in the Court of Justice for the European Communities. At this stage I am confident that Ireland will be able to achieve a satisfactory outcome.
54 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to concerns expressed by business interests in Donegal about the future of the Killybegs fishing industry amid fears that up to 1,000 jobs could be lost; the steps he is taking to ensure the future of the fishing industry in the area in view of its importance to the economy in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8220/05]
I am aware of the concerns expressed by business interests in Donegal about the future of the fishing industry there. Indeed, as the Deputy will be aware, the fishing industry in Europe and elsewhere is experiencing difficulties at the present time. I believe that the primary challenge facing the fishing industry at the present time concerns the need for effective conservation measures to provide for the sustainable exploitation of fish stocks into the future.
The industry in the north west is significantly based on pelagic stocks. In this regard I secured a substantial increase in the quota for blue whiting at the Fisheries Council in December 2004. At my request Bord Iascaigh Mhara will work closely with the industry to develop a significant human consumption market for vessels landing blue whiting into Irish ports in order to maximise the benefits of this fishery.
I continue to work closely with the industry to address concerns expressed by its representatives arising from the introduction in 2004 of new EU procedures for the weighing of pelagic fish. These EU measures, which strengthen control in pelagic fisheries, were introduced in 2004 as a consequence of concerns about illegal landings right across Europe. Proposals designed to provide for the weighing of fish after transport from the port of landing while ensuring full control and accountability are currently being evaluated. These proposals have been brought forward as a result of a joint Council and Commission declaration which I secured at last December's Fisheries Council.
With regard to demersal species, I wish to draw attention to initiatives such as the closure of codling fishing grounds off the Greencastle coast in County Donegal, which was introduced in 2003. A long-term recovery plan for cod was also introduced in 2004, which will help to rebuild this stock. I am confident that these two measures will also contribute to the recovery of other whitefish stocks under pressure in this area.
County Donegal, and in particular the Killybegs area, has been to the forefront of the Irish fishing industry and notwithstanding recent difficulties, I am confident it will maintain this pre-eminent position in the future and remain an economic linchpin of the area.
55 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, arising from a recent decision by the regulator, he intends to issue directives regarding future financial incentives for the wind energy production sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8371/05]
61 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether the wind energy sector is unlikely to receive the degree of financial support from the regulator as in the past; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8369/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 55 and 61 together.
Support to increase the penetration of renewable energy technologies generally in the electricity market is administered by my Department with some support from the research and development programme operated by Sustainable Energy Ireland. The current minimum target my Department is working to deliver, is to increase the consumption of electricity from renewable energy sources to 13.2% of total consumption by 2010 in accordance with 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.
To ensure this target is met, a renewable energy development group was established in May last. It includes representatives from the renewable energy representative associations and the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER. In the course of the work of this group a wide spectrum of views and opinions was expressed by the parties involved, including a view expressed by the energy regulator that the wind sector is now sufficiently developed to operate on a merchant basis. In the interests of clarity and transparency, I put the view of the energy regulator out for public consultation and several replies have been received. The views of the respondents will be considered alongside the view of the energy regulator.
The Commission for Energy Regulation is an independent body under paragraph 9 in the Schedule to the Electricity Regulation Act 1999. I have no power to issue directions to the commission of the type referred to.
From my point of view, the priority is to optimise the contribution from all renewable energy technologies on a basis that is fair to all parties, including consumers, and that it can be integrated safely and easily into the national network. Future support will deliver what is necessary to achieve stated targets while ensuring the interests of national competitiveness and the ultimate burden of cost to the final consumer are all fully taken into consideration.
The renewable energy development group is now at the end of its current work phase and its report will be delivered to me shortly. The report will provide me with a useful platform to settle future targets and support mechanisms.
57 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the details of the tendering and procuring process followed in the appointment of consultants (details supplied) to his Department in the matter of the proposed Corrib gas project. [8066/05]
The consultant for the Corrib pipeline evaluation was appointed in January 2002 following a limited invitation to tender in which three bids were received. The names invited were taken from the Institute of Petroleum's consultants list and the Pipeline Industry Guild. The appointee offered the most economically advantageous tender on the basis of cost, time and availability.
The consultant petroleum engineer was appointed in November 2000 following the advertising of the work in October 2000, and the receipt and evaluation of the 14 tenders received. The recommended candidate was approved by the Government contracts committee on 31 October 2000. On expiry of this contract the work was advertised in the EU's Official Journal on 23 February 2002 and the successful candidate was approved by the Government contracts committee on 22 May 2002. The relevant contract provided for one year in the first instance followed by the possibility of renewal for a minimum of 50 days in each year for a maximum of three further years.
58 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department has been in contact with the EU Commission with regard to the Commission’s statement that it may examine the electricity and gas markets throughout the EU to evaluate the levels of competition; if he will make a statement on the process of hiring consultants and the timetable for his own Department’s review of the ESB and the electricity market here; and when he expects the report from CER on the profitability and return on capital of the ESB. [8197/05]
I presume the Deputy is referring to the recently published European Commission's plans for 2005 in terms of European energy priorities.
A key priority identified by the Commission is the achievement of a properly functioning internal market for gas and electricity for the benefit of all citizens. In that connection the Commission has stated its intention to undertake a further in-depth review of progress in creating the internal electricity and gas market. On the basis of that market analysis, the Commission will assess the need for additional measures, having further stated that a more competitive market needs to be developed.
Ireland supports the approach being adopted by the Commission. We will participate fully in any discussions at EU level on a refocused energy policy both to protect our national interests and to ensure market competitiveness is maximised. As I have already today outlined in my answer to another question on this issue, the request for tenders for the review was issued on the Government's e-tenders website and in the Official Journal of the European Union on 22 February 2005. The call for tenders is based on the "open procedure", which means that it is open to any interested party within or outside Ireland to submit a tender. The deadline for submission of tenders by interested parties is set at 12 noon on 4 April 2005.
The selection process will be undertaken by a steering committee established by my Department and is expected to take between four to six weeks to conclude. The process will, in all likelihood, involve short listing and interviews with short listed candidates. The award will be on the basis of the most economically advantageous tender, MEAT, and in accordance with six specific criteria identified in the tender document. Following the notification of unsuccessful bidders, a period of two weeks has to be allowed before a contract can be signed. This means that the contract award should take place around the end of May.
Turning to the final part of the question, studies by the CER in support of its own decision making are matters for the CER, in which I have no function. I do not expect a report from the commission in the matter.
59 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his Department’s role in monitoring health and safety issues relating to mobile phones; the areas in which final responsibility for this matter should be located in view of the overlapping roles of his Department and at least two others in mobile phone safety; his views on arrangements within the British Government to monitor this vital matter of ongoing public interest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8201/05]
My Department maintains a watching scientific brief on health issues relating to non-ionising radiation, including mobile telephony. The Department's involvement in matters concerning the health effects of non-ionising radiation, which includes radio frequency emissions from mobile phone base stations, is guided by advice from national and international health authorities which include the World Health Organisation of the United Nations.
Mobile telephones are in use internationally. The limits for non-ionising radiation are global limits established internationally by the International Commission for Non-Ionising Radiation Protection, ICNIRP. My Department will continue to liaise with the appropriate international bodies to ensure that the standards operating in Ireland comply with the ICNIRP guidelines.
Responsibility for monitoring health and safety issues relating to mobile phones is currently vested in my Department but a number of other Government Departments and public agencies have an interest in the matter. The Deputy will be aware that the Joint Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources recently discussed this issue. The committee is considering a draft report in the matter of non-ionising radiation from mobile telephone handsets and masts and the issue of institutional responsibility in this matter can be reviewed further by Government in the future.
I am informed that, in the UK, the National Radiological Protection Board performs an advisory role on the potential adverse health effects of non-ionising radiation for British Government ministries, in particular the Ministries of Trade and Industry and Health and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, in relation to planning matters. The board is due to move into the Health Protection Agency from 1 April when it will become the Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards.
My Department to date has not received any communication from ComReg which would indicate any breach of health or safety standards arising from this survey of mobile telephones.
65 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the details of the process followed in the appointment of a person (details supplied) as auditor of independent verification in the matter of the proposed Corrib gas project. [8067/05]
The work in question was formerly carried out by the ocean services division of Enterprise Ireland on behalf of the petroleum affairs division of my Department. The ocean services division completed substantial work on the Corrib development and independent verification process, the criteria for which the development had to satisfy prior to the commissioning and production of first gas.
Enterprise Ireland withdrew from the area in March 2002. The petroleum affairs division of my Department determined that the considerable relevant expertise of the individual in question, an experienced engineer, meant he should continue in his role as a consultant. It was further decided that the industry should continue to be liable for the cost of the work. The individual in question has continued to do his work at no cost to the State.
66 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that his Department has in place adequate legislative provisions to encourage the production of various forms of alternative energy electricity with a view to supplying the national grid; if he intends making changes, with particular reference to the need for the elimination of delays which have cost implications for producers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8345/05]
I refer the Deputy to the reply to Question No. 153 on 9 December 2004.
As Minister with responsibility for energy matters, including the development of our indigenous renewable energy resources, my remit is to create a positive framework whereby these resources can prosper and contribute significantly to our energy needs. A renewable energy development group was established in May 2004 to review existing policies and examine best international practice. The group will shortly make such recommendations as it deems necessary to deliver, at minimum, the target addressed to Ireland in 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.
The group will also incorporate the work of the bioenergy strategy group and the combined heat and power policy group to ensure that a co-ordinated comprehensive renewable energy policy is proposed. The renewable energy development group's report is due very shortly and will form the basis of future policy decisions on the promotion of renewable energy technologies.
67 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the concerns expressed in a recent report commissioned on behalf of eight fishing agencies in Ireland, Britain and Norway that gil-net or ghost-net fishing in Irish waters has led to the decimation of a number of species, including sharks; the steps he intends to take to control these practices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8221/05]
The Deputy refers to a recent report, 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 important report is under consideration by my 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, succeeded in achieving the adoption of Council conclusions on this important subject. The conclusions were agreed in June 2004 and included provision for the European Commission to develop a pilot project to address the problem of ghost fishing in Community waters through, inter alia, the implementation of a retrieval system to remove lost gear. I anticipate progress on this issue during 2005.
In addition, catch limitations for deep-water sharks were introduced at EU level for the first time for 2005 at the December 2004 Agriculture and Fisheries Council. As many deep-water fisheries straddle international waters where non-EU vessels are also fishing, the need for a wider international approach to the problem is an important consideration. It is therefore important to ensure that the North East Atlantic Fisheries Commission is fully involved. Hopefully, it can act as a catalyst for remedial management measures in the wider context.
68 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has used his directive prerogative to encourage an improvement in the quality and coverage of mobile telephone services throughout the country; if he has given any direction to the regulator in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8314/05]
115 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has used his directive prerogative to encourage an improvement in the quality and coverage of mobile telephone services throughout the country; if he has given any direction to the regulator in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8523/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 115 together.
I refer the Deputy to my answer to Question No. 168 on 14 December 2004, when I replied as follows:
The Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, as the independent regulator of the sector, has the responsibility under the transposed European regulatory framework for electronic communications networks and services, and the Communications (Regulation) Act 2002, to regulate the electronic communications sector, including the areas raised by the Deputy. It has statutory independence in carrying out this function.
As Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, I have responsibility for overall strategic policy and legislation in the sector. In this regard section 13 of the Communications (Regulation) Act 2002 allows me to issue policy directions to ComReg, in the interest of the proper and effective regulation of the electronic communications markets. However, actual regulatory interventions or decisions relating to operators, such as quality and coverage, are the responsibility of ComReg, the independent regulator. In March 2004 my predecessor issued policy directions including a direction on competition. These directions can be viewed on my Department's website at www.dcmnr.ie.
69 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has given any more consideration to the possibility of a buy out of commercial salmon licences and to the estimated costs of a buy out in view of the experience of several of our EU partners; if he has any plans to move to a single stock river management system and to eliminate drift netting from the salmon ecosystem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8207/05]
The Government has consistently ruled out buy out as an effective means of achieving the restoration of salmon stocks. Since 2002, it has instead promoted the application of quotas on commercial fishing and bag limits on angling to achieve catch reductions as the best instrument available to achieve this objective. While I have no plans to introduce a single stock management system for the commercial catching of wild Irish salmon, I intend to keep the matter under review in the context of the policy outlined above.
No convincing case has been advanced as to the advantage to the public good of a publicly funded buy out of commercial salmon licences. I have previously stated that the cost of buying out commercial salmon drift net licences in Ireland could be as high as €75 million based on buy out proposals implemented in recent years in Northern Ireland and the north east of England. The cost of buying out up to 56 licence holders is understood to have cost some £3.25 million sterling. On this basis, I have assessed the cost of a similar voluntary buy out scheme in Ireland, with special consideration of the cost if such a scheme were to be taken up in full by the 887 licensed drift net operators. The cost would increase substantially if all other commercial fishing nets were to be included.
I am sure the Deputy agrees buy out proposals on such a scale are impractical. We must caution against excessive expectations of significant amounts of compensation. As I have previously indicated to the House, I am prepared to keep the matter under review. I am open to any relevant proposal whereby stakeholders benefiting from a reduction in commercial catch identify themselves and indicate a willingness to fund any compensation that might arise.
70 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his most recent proposals for the future of An Post with particular reference to the need to retain the post office structure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8308/05]
123 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself regarding the future of An Post; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8532/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 71 and 123 together.
There is agreement that change is required if the postal services of an Post are to adapt to a changing environment and continue to offer a good service to the customer into the future. To progress the change agenda, an exhaustive process of negotiation between An Post management and An Post trades unions has taken place over the last year. While negotiations between company management and the Communications Workers Union, under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission, were ongoing for most of 2004, they have yet to be brought to a successful conclusion despite much useful work.
To keep up the momentum of the process and in an effort to resolve all remaining difficulties, outstanding issues on collection and delivery arrangements are being dealt with in the Labour Court with a view to agreeing a way forward through the implementation of a recovery strategy aimed at returning the company to a secure financial footing. The challenge is for both sides to redouble their efforts to agree to put in place and manage the changes necessary to allow An Post to thrive in an increasingly competitive market. Their efforts will have the support and assistance of the State's industrial relations machinery.
The Government and board of An Post are committed to the objective of securing a viable and sustainable nationwide post office network as set out in the programme for Government. I have met with the Irish Postmasters Union and listened with interest to its views on the future development of the network. My officials are in regular contact with the management of An Post to assist with securing and developing our post office services. The post office network has been the subject of a number of studies and reviews in recent years. Many of the recommendations arising from these reviews have been implemented with particular regard to winning new business, including extra banking and new utility transactions.
There is widespread recognition that the best strategy to sustain the network is for An Post to continue adapting to customer needs within the financial constraints in which it now finds itself. I have asked the Irish Postmasters Union and An Post to work in partnership to maximise their efforts to secure existing business and pursue new business at every available opportunity.
71 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will revoke the fishing permit for coarse angling introduced in 2003 on the River Suck; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8070/05]
As I informed the House in my response to the same question from the Deputy on 22 February last, under the Fisheries Acts 1959 to 2001, the issuing of permit charges for angling is an operational matter for the relevant regional fisheries board. In this instance it is a matter for the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board. It is not an issue over which I, as Minister of State with responsibility for marine matters, have any control. I am advised that all revenues generated by the regional fisheries boards from permit fees are retained by the boards and re-invested in the ongoing management and development of fisheries in their regions.
72 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the draconian decision by the EU Fisheries Council to impose vast no fishing areas off Ireland’s west coast. [8069/05]
The areas to which the Deputy refers are closed areas for one species only, orange roughy, which inhabits a deep sea fishery. Deep sea quotas were introduced for the first time in 2002, covering the years 2003 and 2004. Revised quotas for 2005 and 2006 involving cuts of 15% for most species, including orange roughy, were agreed at last December's Council. As the Deputy is aware, there is a particular need to protect orange roughy because of the very long life cycle of the species which makes it particularly vulnerable to exploitation.
The implementation of effective management strategies is an especially acute challenge in such circumstances and experience in similar fisheries in other parts of the world, notably in New Zealand, suggests that more targeted alternatives to the closure of large sea areas is, at least, equally effective. A major scientific project is currently under way off Ireland's west coast to assess orange roughy spawning aggregations and estimate stock biomass. The project involves scientists from the Irish Marine Institute, BIM, UCC and NUI Galway as well as from New Zealand and Norway. The results of the work will be available in a number of months.
I will ensure that the results of the study are made available to relevant parties, the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea, the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries, and DG FISH. In the event that the study justifies an alternative management approach to the current orange roughy closures, I will press the EU Commission to bring forward new proposals for a more tailored and targeted management plan for orange roughy.
In respect of the deep sea stocks subject to TACs, most of which are of high value, the Irish deep water fleet has quotas of almost 3,000 tonnes available to it in 2005. On the basis of these allocations and additional opportunities for other non-quota stocks, the deep sea fishery will remain important for the small number of vessels concerned.
73 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has received any indication from the communications regulator regarding the DSL failure rate, which indicates that approximately half the telephone lines are broadband compatible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8349/05]
I have no statutory function in this matter.
74 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on a proposed employee share ownership plan for Bord Gáis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8204/05]
Government policy on employee share ownership schemes in State companies is clear. It allows for the ownership of up to 5% of a company subject to a per capita cash value ceiling in return for specific, substantial, verifiable changes to be delivered by employees. The changes must give value to the company and shareholder for which there is no other compensation to the employees.
It is a matter for a company to put forward a proposal to implement the policy. My predecessors and I have had discussions from time to time with staff interests and made it clear that the Government is open to an appropriate proposal.
75 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if it is intended that a joint agreement be signed with a private developer to construct residential units in the Digital Hub in return for a share of future rental income; if so, the nature of such an agreement and when he expects it will be confirmed; the alternative model which will be put in place to develop the residential units promised as part of the Digital Hub project failing the use of such a development model; the number of residential units which will be built; and the projected time for their completion. [8276/05]
The Digital Hub Development Agency is running a developer competition to develop the hub site. I await a recommendation from the board of the agency on the competition. In advance of the recommendation, it would not be proper to comment on the alternatives available to the hub to secure future development.
76 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount which has been spent on consultants over each of the past five years to investigate the issue of the introduction of digital television services here; and when he will be able to outline a Government policy on this issue. [8275/05]
A list of all consultancies retained in relation to the introduction of digital television services is attached. The total amount spent over the period in question was €2,591,744. I am developing further proposals for the roll out of digital terrestrial television, or DTT, services in Ireland. I have asked my Department to develop a DTT trial this year.
|
Details (Consultant) |
Cost |
Dates |
|
€ |
||
|
Assistance to the Minister in relation to introduction of Digital Terrestrial Television in Ireland AIB Cororate Finance (Negotiation Assistance) NERA (Economic Advice) Frank Murray — Process Auditor The Smyth Group (later replaced by Curtis Cartwright) (Enginnering Consultancy) Matheson Ormsby Prentice (Legal Advice) |
2,395,403.40 |
02/99 — 06/02 |
|
Assistance to the Minister in relation to introduction of Digital Terrestrial Television in Ireland AIB Cororate Finance (Negotiation Assistance) NERA (Economic Advice) Frank Murray — Process Auditor The Smyth Group (later replaced by Curtis Cartwright) (Enginnering Consultancy) Matheson Ormsby Prentice (Legal Advice) |
132,349.69 |
Final instalment paid: 12/02 |
|
Consultancy in regard to Digital Terrestrial Television (Phil Flynn) |
8,634 |
03/00 — 05/00 |
|
Analysis of Digital Terrestrial Television Options (NERA) |
22,176.68 |
11/03 |
|
Matheson Ormsby Prentice (Legal Advice) |
33,180.48 |
1/05 |
77 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will make a statement on the decision of the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland to issue a revised licensing policy statement in coming months which it is reported may lead to the issue of a significant number of new radio licences, including a new national licence; if he intends to issue a directive to the BCI to examine competition in the radio sector; if he has satisfied himself that the Exchequer is receiving value from the national resource of the radio spectrum and additional spectrum which may become available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8198/05]
The licensing of independent radio stations in Ireland is a matter for the independent Broadcasting Commission of Ireland, BCI, and one in which I have no direct role. The revenue return to the Exchequer for use of national assets, including radio spectrum, is a matter primarily for the Minister for Finance and I have no function in this regard. I can give policy directions regarding spectrum fees to the Commission for Communications Regulation only with the consent of the Minister for Finance.
Under its statutory obligations, the BCI determines, inter alia, the type and number of licences to be issued in any region. While I have no powers to issue a directive to the BCI on competition in the radio sector, I wish to maintain a suitable legislative framework for local radio licensing in Ireland. My Department carried out a review of radio licensing in Ireland last year. The review consisted of an extensive independent report by Ox Consultants and a public consultation process. My Department will produce a final report on the consultation later this year and I will consider proposals for suitable legislative reform with regard to radio licensing.
While I will consider new legislative proposals to improve the overall licensing framework, I am clear that decisions on the nature of the services to be licensed and licence awardees should remain the remit of an independent body.
78 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has plans to extend RTE broadcasts to enable Irish people living in Britain to access RTE programmes on their televisions; his views on whether RTE broadcasts to Britain can be restored in view of the fact that they have been unavailable there for a number of years; the importance attached to the provision of this service in the report of the task force on the Irish abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8218/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 89 on 8 February 2005 which read as follows:
RTE's statutory mandate, as defined in section 28 (1) of the Broadcasting Act 2001, provides that RTE's radio and television services shall be made available, in so far as is reasonably practicable, to the whole community on the island of Ireland. It is a matter for RTE to determine how best to fulfil its statutory mandate and I have no function in the matter.
RTE is not mandated to make its services available to Irish communities living abroad. RTE has, however, acted in a number of ways that has resulted in its radio or television services being more widely accessible. In addition to being available throughout Ireland, RTE's long wave radio service is available throughout much of the UK and parts of Europe. RTE services can also be accessed online.
In the past, certain RTE television programming was available in the UK on a commercial television channel, Tara TV. I understand that the company went into liquidation due to a lack of commercial success. Advances in broadband technology will give RTE additional options for making its services available in the future. This is likely to result in increased opportunities for Irish people living abroad to access RTE's radio and television services.
79 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the main features of the regulations signed by him in advance of the opening of the full electricity market on 19 February 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8214/05]
The European Communities (Internal Market in Electricity) Regulations 2005, SI No. 60 of 2005, referred to by the Deputy give further legal effect to Directive No. 2003/54/EC of the European Parliament and the Council of 26 June 2003 on common rules for the internal market in electricity. The directive repealed Directive 96/92/EC. The new regulations build on the regulatory framework for the electricity industry put in place in Ireland in the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 and the European Communities (Internal Market in Electricity) Regulations 2000.
The regulations provide, inter alia, for the strengthening of independent regulation, better levels of consumer protection, the licensing of a public electricity supplier, the designation of a supplier of last resort, the enhancement of security of supply provisions and other relevant matters. A comprehensive note detailing the individual provisions of the regulations is available on the Department’s website at www.dcmnr.gov.ie.
80 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the actions he can take to counter increased use of the Internet and mobile telephone systems for child pornography and gambling; if his attention has been drawn to the potential damage to society of such abuses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8324/05]
I have no function in relation to gambling. Legislation to combat illegal pornographic material is already in place. The Deputy may be aware that it is an offence under section 13 of the Post Office (Amendment) Act 1951, as amended by the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983, to send by phone any message or other matter which is grossly offensive or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character. It is also an offence under section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997 to harass a person by use of any means including by use of a telephone.
My colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, is responsible for policy to protect children from the transmission of pornographic images by phones and other media. Anyone who has information on such matters should bring it immediately to the attention of the Garda for criminal investigation.
81 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the damage to the livelihood of fishermen on the River Suir from drainage works carried out to the river by South Tipperary County Council; if the county manager will carry out remedial measures to remove obstructions from the river bed on two stretches near the town of Carrick-on-Suir; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8208/05]
The matter has been investigated by my Department's engineering division and I am advised that the effect on fisheries of the works undertaken by the local authority are expected to be minimal. Officials of the Department are, however, prepared to meet the fishermen concerned in conjunction with officials of the local authority to afford them an opportunity to detail their concerns about the works in question.
83 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he intends to act on the recommendations of the report of the marine casualty investigations board into the loss of four crew from a yacht (details supplied) on 20 May 2001, particularly in regard to the dangers of consumption of alcohol by masters and crew; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8192/05]
The recommendations referred to by the Deputy were outlined in a report of the marine casualty investigation board on the tragic incident which involved the collision between the yacht Debonair and the cargo vessel Bluebird in Dublin Bay on 20 May 2001 with the loss of four lives. The report was published on 3 March 2005. I convey my sympathies to the families of the four victims on their tragic losses. The recommendations are being examined in my Department. If necessary, I will bring forward appropriate measures to address any shortcomings in the statutory bases either of the regimes governing alcohol consumption on vessels or the enforcement arrangements.
Section 24 of the Merchant Shipping Act 1992 makes it an offence for the master and other crew members of cargo vessels to be on duty while under the influence of alcohol. The Merchant Shipping (Pleasure Craft) (Lifejackets and Operation) (Safety) Regulations 2004, which came into effect on 2 June 2004, provide for controls on the operation of pleasure craft while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In particular, it states that the master or owner of a pleasure craft shall not or shall not allow another to operate or control or attempt to operate or control the craft while he or she or the other is under the influence of alcohol or drugs or any combination of drugs or of drugs and alcohol to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the craft.
84 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department has entered into discussions with Dublin City Council and the Dublin Port Company with regard to the future use of port lands on the southside of the Liffey; and if his Department has carried out an analysis of the possible future use of some of those lands for residential development. [8278/05]
The Department has had no discussions with Dublin City Council regarding the future use of port lands on the southside of the River Liffey, nor has it carried out any analysis of the possible future use of these lands for residential development. The Dublin Port Company is a State-owned company established under the Harbours Act 1996. The Act provides that the principal objects of the company include the provision of such facilities, services and lands in its harbour for ships, goods and passengers as it considers necessary.
It is understood that a concept plan — the Poolbeg framework plan — has been submitted to Dublin City Council on foot of an invitation for urban design and land use studies. Submitted by consultants DEGW, the framework plan notes that the Poolbeg peninsula, other than the port area on the northside of the Liffey, is the only large tract of land open to unique concepts for a large scale city-wide amenity close to the city centre.
The Dublin Port Company has informed Dublin City Council of its concerns about lack of consultation on the concept plan. The company also has pointed out that the concept plan is in contravention of the current city development plan, the draft city development plan up to 2011 and the Dublin Docklands Development Authority master plan for the area.
85 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself regarding the availability of natural gas supplies in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8322/05]
118 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself regarding the availability of natural gas supplies in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8526/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 118 together.
World gas resources can easily meet projected demand. Proven reserves have outpaced production for the past 25 years and equal about 66 years of current production. While it is clear that the geographic sources of gas for north west Europe will change over coming years, there is no particular threat to Irish supplies. The market is close to being fully liberalised and there will be several suppliers. The Kinsale field continues to provide Ireland with some supply of gas and supplies coming from the Corrib and Seven Heads fields will reduce Ireland's import demands in the coming years.
There is adequate infrastructure capacity in place to meet import requirements for many years ahead. Under section 19 of the Gas (Interim) (Regulation) Act 2002, the Commission for Energy Regulation is required to prepare and publish an annual forecast of capacity, flows and customer demand on Ireland's natural gas system over a seven year period. The 2004 capacity statement was published on 12 November and set out a range of possible demand scenarios which may be expected to arise over the coming years.
The gas capacity statement indicates that our infrastructure is sufficiently robust to cater for the majority of scenarios modelled. Only in the case of the highest demand forecast, in tandem with delays to the coming on stream of indigenous supply sources, would reinforcements to the infrastructure require to be envisaged. The CER is working with Bord Gáis, the transmission system operator, to investigate the requirements for reinforcing the onshore Scotland system, should the need arise.
My Department will continue to monitor gas supply.
86 Ms M. Wallace asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her Department’s proposals for a hostel for psychiatric patients in the highly populated area of south east Meath including Ratoath, Dunboyne, Dunshaughlin and Ashbourne; and if she will report on the service plan proposals submitted to her Department by the North Eastern Health Board for the provision of such a service. [8403/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of mental health services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the Health Service Executive north eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
87 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the Nurses Act 1985 will be amended as recommended by the nursing commission in relation to midwifery; if the new legislation will be prepared in consultation with midwives; if the autonomous role of midwives will be specifically recognised; if her attention has been drawn to a shortage of midwives in the Dublin area and of forecasts of an even greater decline in numbers; if her attention has further been drawn to fact that the removal of the midwifery qualification for entry to public health nursing will further impact on recruitment to the profession; her views on whether direct entry midwifery programmes at degree level are urgently needed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8404/05]
My Department is currently involved in drafting new legislation which will amend the Nurses Act 1985. The new legislation will modernise the regulatory framework operated by An Bord Altranais for nurses and midwives. Work on the draft Heads of the Bill is at an advanced stage and all stakeholders will have an opportunity to comment on the draft legislation.
It is my intention that the new legislation will acknowledge the request from midwives for recognition of their distinct identity and, in accordance with recommendation 4.45 of the Commission on Nursing, will provide for the establishment of a statutory midwives committee.
The removal of the midwifery qualification as an eligibility requirement for entry to public health nursing is a matter for An Bord Altranais. Regulation of the nursing and midwifery professions, including the setting of requirements and standards in the education programmes leading to registration, is the statutory responsibility of An Bord Altranais. I understand that, in removing this requirement, the board was mindful of recommendation 8.30 of the report of the Commission on Nursing which recommended dropping the mandatory requirement of a midwifery qualification for those wishing to train as public health nurses.
The recruitment and retention of adequate numbers of nurses and midwives has been a concern of this Government for some time. There are approximately 900 nursing and midwifery staff in the three Dublin maternity hospitals. According to the most recent Health Service Executive nursing resources survey there were 27 vacancies in these hospitals at the end of December 2004.
An expert group on midwifery and children's nurse education was established in September 2004 to develop a comprehensive strategy for the future of midwifery and children's nursing. The expert group, which comprised representatives from the Department of Health and Children, the education sector, health service providers and unions, presented its report to me in late December 2004.
The report is under active consideration at present and a decision on the future of midwifery education will be announced shortly.
88 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if an inspection of the accident and emergency department at Letterkenny General Hospital was to be carried out by her officials; if so, the reason it has not taken place; when it will take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8415/05]
I presume the Deputy is referring to a series of inspections being undertaken by officials of the Health and Safety Authority to address occupational health and safety concerns in emergency medicine departments of acute hospitals. The authority recently announced that it would launch a programme of inspections this week and that it hoped to inspect 11 emergency departments by 8 April 2005. It is entirely a matter for the authority to determine which emergency departments it intends to inspect.
89 Mr. Aylward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when it is proposed to open the palliative care unit at St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny; and the reason for the delay in having this vital service made available. [8416/05]
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 Kilkenny. 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.
90 Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan was retired on a staff nurse pension despite having acted as charge nurse for many years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8442/05]
Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive, HSE, which was established on 1 January 2005, has responsibility for pension arrangements for staff of the former health boards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's north eastern area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
91 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the pension scheme arrangements for persons working as home helps; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8513/05]
Under the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001, any employee whose normal hours of work constitute at least 20% of the normal hours of a comparable full-time employee is entitled to access to a pension scheme. My Department has been informed by the Health Service Executive that pension arrangements for home helps employed in the health service are currently being discussed as part of a proposed collective agreement with the trade unions by the employers representative division of the executive, on behalf of health employers.
92 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Finance the steps he will take to instruct local authorities not to impose rates on child care facilities which are being provided by private operators; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8410/05]
I have no plans to provide for special treatment of crèches under the Valuation Act. The Valuation Act 2001 maintained the long standing position that commercial facilities — including child care facilities such as playschools, pre-schools, crèches and Montessori schools — are liable for rates. Exceptions to this key principle would quickly be followed by demands for similar treatment from the providers of other useful services and products, which would be difficult in equity to resist. The process could thus substantially reduce local authority revenues, which would have to be made good by imposing corresponding increases on the remaining ratepayers.
The rateable valuation of commercial property is based on the net annual value, NAV, that is, the rental value of the property. Any ratepayer dissatisfied with the rateability of a property, the valuation assessed on a particular property or the method of calculation can appeal to the commissioner of valuation in the first instance and subsequently to the independent valuation tribunal. There is a further right of appeal to the High Court and ultimately to the Supreme Court on a point of law.
Rating legislation, as distinct from valuation legislation, and issues arising from it are matters for my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
The core objective of Government policy in the area of child support is to provide assistance which will offer real choice to parents and which will benefit all children. In that context, our policy has been to increase child benefit by substantial amounts as the main fiscal instrument through which support will be provided to parents with dependent children. Child benefit provides assistance to all parents in whatever caring choices are most appropriate for them and their children. In addition, unlike tax relief, it provides support to parents irrespective of their income status. We have also undertaken measures to favour the supply of child care places by tax incentives to set up facilities, relief from VAT and relief from benefit in kind, BIK, for free or subsidised child care places provided by employers. Taken together these represent substantial measures to assist with the cost of child care.
My colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, has overall responsibility for the formulation of national policy on child care. In that context, the establishment of the €499 million Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006, EOCP, with funding provided by the European Union and the Exchequer under the NDP, aims to increase the supply of centre based child care places by 55%, or about 31,200, by programme end.
93 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance if he has given permission for the erection of a mobile phone mast on an OPW premises (details supplied); if he will give a categorical assurance, in reply to this question, to residents living in the vicinity that the erection of the telecommunications equipment will not pose a threat to persons living in the vicinity; if, in the event of any damage being done to the health of such persons, he and the Office of Public Works will accept responsibility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8428/05]
In August 2003, the Commissioners of Public Works appointed a telecommunications consultancy company to assess the suitability of the State property portfolio for use in the mobile telecommunications sector and to act in an advisory capacity to the commissioners in their dealings with mobile telecommunications operators. As part of this process, a licence to install equipment on the premises referred to has been granted to a mobile telephone operator.
Under the terms of the licence, the operator is required to strictly comply with all relevant health and safety Acts and will operate within current standards and EU regulations and adhere to the guidelines on exposure limits to emissions, issued by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection, ICNIRP. This compliance with health and safety legislation, required under the licence agreement, also applies to any future relevant legislation-regulations and ICNIRP guidelines.
94 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will commission an independent QRA in the interest of the health and safety of the residents who will be compelled to live beside the Mayo gas upstream gas pipeline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8396/05]
As I have already stated, my Department is at present considering an application for consent to install the onshore pipeline. Both the quantified risk assessment, QRA, and the Johnston report, to which I have referred previously, will form part of this process. In so far as there may be issues in the QRA that need further clarification, elaboration or even additional material, Mr. Andrew Johnston, assisted by other independent consultants, will provide the necessary advice to my Department.
On 21 February 2005, Shell reactivated its application for consent to install and commission phase 3: onshore pipeline and umbilical, originally submitted in June 2002. On 24 February 2005, my Department wrote to Shell requesting the clarification and elaboration of certain information and studies provided in the 2002 application.
Officials from my Department met with Shell on Friday, 4 March 2005, to discuss these issues further. In the course of this meeting Shell advised that the company had appointed Shell Global Solutions to carry out a peer review on the QRA and any associated reports-studies submitted to my Department by the then operator Enterprise Energy Ireland Ltd. Shell has agreed to submit these reports to my Department by early April of this year. It is my intention to appoint a consultant who is an expert in quantified risk assessment to review these documents and report to me on all aspects, especially that of public safety. I intend to publish these reports immediately when available.
It is my intention to progress consideration of the application for consent to install the upstream pipeline in an open, balanced and informed manner. My decision to publish the full suite of documents mentioned above, prior to my making a decision, will, hopefully, allay local fears in regard to the safety of the pipeline and the process being adopted.
95 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Ireland’s position in the European league in regard to availability of broadband; the extent to which this situation has improved or is likely to improve in the foreseeable future with particular reference to the need to achieve targets set by the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8458/05]
The most recent figures from the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, indicate that there are now in excess of 130,000 broadband consumers, which is almost 9% market penetration. This is up from around 1,000 in March 2003.
The latest figures also show that 40% of Irish homes have a personal computer, compared with the EU-15 average of 45%, and 40% of Irish homes have access to the Internet. By the end of March 2005 Eircom expects to have over 80% population coverage for DSL, and the company aims to have 90% of their lines DSL enabled by March 2006.
In terms of achieving higher levels at broadband penetration in Ireland, the latest figures shown on the website www.internetworldstats.com show 1.3 million Internet users in Ireland, or 32.8% of the population, an increase of 68% in the years 2000 to 2005. The penetration figure for the 25 EU countries is given as 44.8%. The signs are encouraging. I believe that the industry target should be 500,000 broadband customers by 2007. That represents more than one third of the telecommunications market.
The Government target is to be in the top half of EU countries by the end of 2007. That means a market penetration rate in the region of 14%, which is, in my opinion, easily achievable.
96 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when and the way in which he will be authorised to issue directions to the energy regulator on matters of energy and electricity policy. [8461/05]
Currently, I have certain limited statutory powers to give directions to the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, solely on electricity trading arrangements.
As is common practice with other sectoral regulators, I am proposing, in line with Government approval, to take powers to issue policy directions of a general nature to the CER. Such a provision is included in the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill which is currently being drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel. This Bill is scheduled for publication in the second quarter of 2005.
97 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount which has been spent on consultants over each of the past five years to investigate the issue of the introduction of digital television services here; and when he will be able to outline a Government policy on this issue. [8462/05]
A list of all consultancies relating to the introduction of digital television services is being made available. The total amount spent over the period in question is €2,591,744. These costs relate primarily to technical, financial and legal advice in relation to the "multiplex" licence competition held by the Department in 2001 and 2002. No applicant was successful in that competition. Since the wind up of that competition in 2002, consultancy expenses have been restricted to less than €60,000.
With regard to television broadcasting, Ireland's primary television stations are available throughout the country on a free-to-air basis through analogue terrestrial transmission. Free-to-air digital terrestrial television is not yet available in Ireland, though provided for under the Broadcasting Act 2001. Over time, the analogue terrestrial network must be upgraded to a digital network.
I am currently developing further proposals for the roll out of digital terrestrial television services in Ireland. In this regard I have asked my Department to develop a digital terrestrial television trial this year. As the digital terrestrial television demonstration is developed, I will outline my intentions regarding possible dates for a switch over from analogue to digital terrestrial television broadcasts.
A list of all consultancies relating to the issue of the introduction of digital television services in the past five years is shown in the table.
|
Details (Consultant) |
Cost |
Dates |
|
€ |
||
|
Assistance to the Minister in relation to introduction of Digital Terrestrial Television in Ireland AIB Corporate Finance (Negotiation Assistance) NERA (Economic Advice) Frank Murray — Process Auditor The Smyth Group (later replaced by Curtis Cartwright) (Engineering Consultancy) Matheson Ormsby Prentice (Legal Advice) |
2,395,403.40 |
02/99 — 06/02 |
|
Assistance to the Minister in relation to introduction of Digital Terrestrial Television in Ireland AIB Corporate Finance (Negotiation Assistance) NERA (Economic Advice) Frank Murray — Process Auditor The Smyth Group (later replaced by Curtis Cartwright) (Engineering Consultancy) Matheson Ormsby Prentice (Legal Advice) |
132,349.69 |
Final instalment paid: 12/02 |
|
Consultancy in regard to DTT (Phil Flynn) |
8,634 |
03/00 — 05/00 |
|
Analysis of Digital Terrestrial Television Options (NERA) |
22,176.68 |
11/03 |
|
Matheson Ormsby Prentice (Legal Advice) |
33,180.48 |
1/05 |
98 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if it is intended that a joint agreement be signed with a private developer to construct residential units in the Digital Hub in return for a share of future rental income; the nature of such an agreement; when it will be confirmed; the alternative model which will be put in place to develop the residential units promised as part of the Digital Hub project, failing the use of such a development model; the number of residential units which will be built; and the projected time for their completion. [8463/05]
I am aware that the Digital Hub Development Agency, DHDA, is running a developer competition to develop the hub site. I am awaiting a recommendation from the board of DHDA relating to that competition. In advance of that recommendation it would not be proper for me to comment on the alternatives available in the hub to secure future development in the area.
With regard to its other ongoing activities, the Digital Hub has been successful to date in building up a cluster of digital media companies and has embarked on extensive educational and community activities in the Liberties area of Dublin.
99 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if mobile telephone charges here are the highest in Europe; his policy initiatives to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8459/05]
I have no function in setting pricing for phone services. The regulation of telecommunications operators, including pricing for mobile services, is the responsibility of the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in accordance with the requirements of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and regulations made under the EU regulatory framework for electronic communications.
As Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, I have responsibility for overall telecoms policy, and my main goal in this policy is to create conditions for sustainable growth and competition that will benefit the economic and social development of Ireland by providing competitive services. It is my belief that improving the market conditions to enhance competition is the best way to drive down mobile phone charges to the end user. The more competitive telecoms services that are on offer, the better in the long run for consumers, the sector and the economy.
In March 2004 my predecessor issued policy directions to ComReg, including a direction on competition. The direction on competition mandates ComReg to focus on competition as a key objective, with a particular focus on competition in the fixed and mobile markets, and to implement, where necessary, remedies which counteract or remove barriers to entry and support entry by new players to the market and entry into new sectors by existing players and also to have particular regard to the following: market share of new entrants; ensuring that the applicable margin attributable to a product at the wholesale level is sufficient to promote and sustain competition; price level to the end user; and the potential of alternative technology delivery platforms to support competition.
ComReg has, as one of its key objectives, under the Communications Regulation Act 2002, the promotion of competition in the exercise of its functions. Competition in the fixed and mobile markets will drive down prices for consumers.
I have no information to say that Irish mobile charges are generally the highest in Europe. However, ComReg's quarterly key data for the Irish communications market for Q3 2004 indicate that the Irish mobile operators' average revenue per user is the second highest in Europe; Switzerland has the highest.
The Deputy will be aware that ComReg proposes to introduce new measures in 2005 to stimulate competition in the mobile market following its recent determination that Vodafone and O2 have joint dominance in the wholesale mobile access and call origination market. These measures may include requiring Vodafone and O2 to open their networks to mobile virtual network operators and requiring that existing national roaming arrangements be maintained.
100 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on his Department guidelines for the tendering and carrying out of the various broadband schemes being rolled out across the country; the person who gives final approval of departmental funding of same; the way in which and the person by whom the drawing down of Department funding is monitored; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8401/05]
I wish to advise the Deputy that tendering for all aspects of broadband projects under the national development plan that are being rolled out across the country are conducted in accordance with the relevant public procurement guidelines currently in place. Moreover, any tender or procurement notices are published on www.etenders.gov.ie the website designed to be a central facility for all public sector contracting authorities to advertise procurement opportunities and award notices.
I am charged with managing the overall capital envelope for the broadband action plan which is currently €140 million for the years 2004 to 2007, as agreed with the Minister for Finance. The Department's resources under this programme are part funded by the European Regional Development Fund under the regional operational programmes and my Department reports on expenditure to the south and east regional assembly and the Border, midlands and west regional assembly as appropriate. The Accounting Officer of my Department monitors all spending across the range of sectoral areas within my Department on an ongoing basis.
101 Mr. Eamon Ryan 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. [8402/05]
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.
102 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will provide a copy of the quantified risk assessment that was carried out on the Corrib gas project, north County Mayo, in its entirety. [8423/05]
My Department is at present considering an application for consent to install the onshore pipeline. Both the quantified risk assessment, QRA, and the Johnston report, to which I have referred previously, will form part of this process. In so far as there may be issues in the QRA that need further clarification, elaboration or even additional material, Mr. Andrew Johnston, assisted by other independent consultants, will be providing the necessary advice to my Department.
On 21 February 2005, Shell reactivated its application for consent to install and commission phase 3: onshore pipeline and umbilical, originally submitted in June 2002. On 24 February 2005, my Department wrote to Shell requesting the clarification and elaboration of certain information and studies provided in the 2002 application.
Officials from my Department met with Shell on Friday, 4 March 2005, to discuss these issues further. In the course of this meeting Shell advised that the company had appointed Shell Global Solutions to carry out a peer review on the QRA and any associated reports-studies submitted to my Department by the then operator Enterprise Energy Ireland Ltd. Shell has agreed to submit these reports to my Department by early April of this year.
It is my intention to appoint a consultant, who is an expert in quantified risk assessment, to review these documents and report to me on all aspects and especially that of public safety. I intend to publish these reports immediately when available.
It is my intention to progress consideration of the application for consent to install the upstream pipeline in an open, balanced and informed manner. My decision to publish the full suite of documents mentioned above, prior to my making a decision, will, hopefully, allay local fears in regard to the safety of the pipeline and the process being adopted.
103 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the figures which were put forward at the final meeting of the outgoing National Salmon Commission in regard to the recommended total salmon quota for the whole country by the fisheries board managers, the scientists and the chairman of the Salmon Commission; the way in which each of these figures was arrived at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8501/05]
105 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the percentage of salmon quota allocated to each fisheries board area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8503/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 103 and 105 together.
I rely upon the advice of the National Salmon Commission, NSC, and the National Fisheries Managers Executive, NFME, 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 salmon catch annually.
The National Salmon Commission is an independent statutory body established under the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 1999 to assist and advise me, as Minister of State with responsibility for the marine, on the conservation, management, protection and development of the national salmon resource and, in particular, on the national wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme regulations. The commission includes representatives of the commercial fishing sector, the angling sector and other relevant stakeholders.
The National Salmon Commission is advised in its work by its own standing scientific committee, which includes scientists from BIM, the Central Fisheries Board, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Loughs Agency and the Marine Institute.
On 30 November last, the standing scientific committee presented its preliminary recommendations to the commission on the precautionary salmon catch advice for the 2005 fishing season. At that time the scientific committee's preliminary advice recommended that the total number of salmon to be exploited by all fishing methods in 2005 should not exceed 122,305 fish. I understand, however, that this advice was updated to a figure of 124,571 fish when the final catch statistics report for the 2004 season became available from the Central Fisheries Board towards the end of January last. This advice was, for the first time in 2005, based on the adoption of a 75% probability of reaching the conservation limits. The scientific committee does not make any recommendation, however, as to how many of these fish should be allocated to the commercial fishing sector as opposed to the angling sector.
This scientific advice was considered by the NFME from a fisheries management perspective and the fisheries managers then submitted their advice to me on 14 February regarding salmon conservation measures and salmon quotas for 2005 and beyond.
In its advice, the NFME recommends that the total catch of wild salmon in 2005 should not exceed 173,854 based on achieving a 50% probability of meeting the conservation limits. The NFME advice also includes preliminary recommendations for a suite of conservation measures that it believes should be introduced in the fishery. The NFME believes that if these measures are introduced in 2005, a provision of 27,500 fish should be sufficient for exploitation by anglers this year. With this figure in mind, the NFME recommends that the national commercial TAC for 2005 should not exceed 146,174 fish and that the conservation limits be met on a staged basis in each district by 2008.
The National Salmon Commission met on 22 February 2005 to consider the scientific and management advice available with a view to finalising its recommendations on the management of the wild salmon fishery in 2005. The chairman, in his letter of 1 March 2005, advises me that the commission was unable to reach a consensus on either the scientific or management quota proposals. He advises, however, that the National Salmon Commission did endorse, by a majority decision, a compromise proposal that the national commercial catch of salmon for 2005 should not exceed 139,900 fish and that this recommendation is made on the basis that the commission would adopt the scientific committee's advice by the 2007 season at the latest.
I am still considering the advices offered to me, bearing in mind the need to balance the needs of all beneficiaries and users of the salmon resource. I expect, however, to publish draft wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme regulations setting a national total allowable commercial catch of salmon for 2005 very shortly. These draft regulations will also set out the total allowable commercial catch of salmon for each of the 17 fishery districts around the coast.
Under the requirements of the Fisheries Acts, the draft regulations are available for a 30 day consultation period to allow interested parties 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 scheme.
104 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the contact his Department has had with the north Atlantic salmon fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8502/05]
I am advised that the Department has exchanged correspondence with the north Atlantic salmon fund, NASF, on the management of the Irish wild salmon fishery in recent years. I understand that a meeting took place in February 2003 between my colleague and predecessor as Minister of State, Deputy Browne, and the chairman of the NASF. I am advised that this meeting was arranged to discuss the organisation's views about the netting of wild salmon by Irish commercial fishermen. Since being appointed Minister of State with responsibility for the marine in 2004, I have not met nor have I had any discussions with the NASF.
106 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in the case of a commercial salmon drift net licence holder who cannot fish due to illness or being required as a full-time carer such a fisherman can nominate another person to use their licence until they are well enough to go fishing again and they are no longer needed as a carer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8504/05]
The Control of Fishing for Salmon Order 2005 authorises the issue of commercial fishing licences by regional fisheries boards and prescribes the criteria under which those licences may be issued. The order provides that a licence holder, when applying for the annual licence, can nominate another person to be authorised and named to operate that licence only in the absence of the licence holder due to illness or injury.
107 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his position with regard to the case for the cessation of drift netting for salmon. [8505/05]
It is the Government's view that our salmon stock is a national asset, which must be conserved and protected, as well as being exploited as a resource, on a shared and sustainable basis. A delicate balancing exercise is therefore necessary between the needs of the coastal and inland communities who depend on fishing resources for their livelihood and the recreational users, including tourists.
Since 1996, the Department has introduced a range of conservation measures which have seen considerable advancements made in salmon policy and in particular the management of the commercial salmon fishery. As part of these measures, the drift net season is now confined to a two month period in June and July on a four day week basis. Fishing is only allowed during daylight hours and is confined to the area within the six mile limit. The regional fisheries boards operate the wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme, which inter alia, limits the total allowable commercial catch of salmon.
This policy of promoting the application of quotas on commercial fishing, including drift netting, and bag limits on angling, has delivered significant catch reductions aimed at achieving the overall shared objective of restoration of salmon stocks. As a result, I have no plans to introduce proposals to cease drift netting for wild Irish salmon but I intend to keep the matter under review in the context of the policy outlined above.
108 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the state of developments in regard to 3G telephone technology; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8515/05]
Although the development of third generation mobile phone technology worldwide has not been as fast as previously envisaged, the roll out of 3G services has commenced. In Ireland one licensee has fully commercially launched 3G customer services. Another licensee has indicated that it will launch services in both the UK and Ireland in early 2005. The third licensee is expected to formally launch a full commercial service later in the year.
109 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the extent to which the Internet and the mobile telephone system are being used to promote gambling to the detriment of young people and families; if he intends to issue any instructions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8516/05]
I have no function in the matter raised by the Deputy.
111 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the policy directives he has given to the communications regulator in regard to targets relating to the provision of broadband services throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8518/05]
In March 2004, my predecessor, Deputy Dermot Ahern, under section 13 of the Communications Regulation Act 2002, issued policy directions to the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, including one on broadband. This direction required ComReg to use regulatory and enforcement tools, where necessary and subject to relevant requirements under European and national law, to support initiatives to develop broadband and remove regulatory barriers, if any exist, to such initiatives. ComReg was required to have a particular focus on the residential and SME sectors, balanced regional development and potential for broadband provision on alternative platforms. The goal set for ComReg was to be at, or better than, the EU-15 average, excluding accession countries, for end user access to, and usage of, broadband by mid-2005.
In its latest report on the policy directions, ComReg has reported that there were more than 114,000 DSL customers as of December 2004, an increase of over 50% in the previous three months. There are, in addition, around 16,000 other broadband connections provided through a mixture of wireless and leased line applications.
While the primary technology deployed here, DSL, which incidentally is that in use generally across Europe, will not be available to 100% of the population, other technologies, such as fixed wireless access and satellite, will extend the coverage. Overall, levels for coverage of broadband now exceed 75% and are in line with the European average as outlined in the March 2004 policy direction.
The acceleration of local loop unbundling should also stimulate improved broadband offerings. In addition, initiatives by the operators to supply broadband are being supplemented by a range of Government initiatives, including metropolitan area networks, MANs, schools broadband and community broadband. ComReg is working closely with the appropriate parties on all of these initiatives.
112 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which adequate generating capacity exists to meet requirements for the foreseeable future; if the national grid has sufficient reserves to meet all eventualities, particularly at peak load; his measures to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8519/05]
As the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, has statutory responsibility for security of electricity supply, I have no function in the matters raised by the Deputy.
114 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when disbursement of funds from licence fees are likely to be awarded to the public or private broadcasting sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8521/05]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 16 of today.
116 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that health and safety standards and requirements are being fully adhered to throughout the mobile telephone industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8524/05]
I refer the Deputy to my response to Questions Nos. 78, 273, 298 and 316 on 8 February 2005.
119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the degree to which cost effectiveness and efficiency have been evaluated in respect of various methods of energy production, having particular regard to the need to protect the environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8527/05]
I have nothing further to add to my reply to Question No. 273 answered on 30 November 2004.
120 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his policy in regard to wind generated electricity and its availability to the national grid; if he has issued directions to the energy regulator or received communications therefrom in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8528/05]
My policy on electricity generated from renewable sources, of which wind is the dominant technology, in the first instance is to increase consumption from these sources 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.
To ensure that this target is met, a renewable energy development group was established in May last. The group's report will also assist me in deciding on future targets and support mechanisms for the renewable energy sector, including wind energy. From my point of view, it is important to optimise the contribution of renewable energy technologies generally, including wind energy, to electricity production on a basis that is fair to all parties, including consumers, and that it can be integrated safely and easily into the national network.
Following the discussions of the group, I received a letter from the energy regulator expressing the view that the wind sector is now sufficiently developed to operate on a merchant basis. In the interests of clarity and transparency, I put the view of the energy regulator out to public consultation and several replies have been received. The views of the respondents will be considered alongside the view of the energy regulator.
The Commission for Energy Regulation is an independent body under paragraph 9 in the Schedule to the Electricity Regulation Act 1999. I have no power to issue directions to the commission of the type referred to.
121 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the manner in which he anticipates broadcasting to develop in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8530/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 7 given earlier today.
125 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the statutory redundancy which is available to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [8419/05]
A claim for payment of a statutory redundancy lump sum out of the social insurance fund has been received in my Department in respect of the person concerned. The claim is being processed at the present time. Under the Redundancy Payments Acts 1967 to 2003, a redundant employee is entitled to two weeks pay per year of service plus one bonus week at the gross rate of pay, up to a ceiling of €600 per week.
126 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the financial supports which are available to cover funeral and other related expenses following the death of a person in residential care who had an intellectual disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8414/05]
An exceptional needs payment may be made by the community welfare service of the Health Service Executive under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme which it administers on my behalf, to assist with funeral costs. An exceptional needs payment can be made towards any exceptional, unforeseen and non-recurring expense which a person is unable to meet from his or her own resources. In the situation cited, the person with responsibility for meeting the funeral costs would apply to his or her local community welfare officer for assistance, if necessary, towards those costs.
There is no automatic entitlement to an exceptional needs payment and the community welfare service makes a decision on each application on its merits. Neither I nor my Department has any role in determining entitlement in individual cases.
It is unlikely that a person in the situation cited by the Deputy would have the necessary social insurance contributions to enable a bereavement grant to be payable to his or her next of kin or personal representative.
127 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if the full rent allowance will be restored in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [8417/05]
Subject to certain conditions, including a means test, rent supplements are available through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme which is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive.
The south eastern region of the executive has advised that the person concerned had been in receipt of rent supplement up to October 2004. A subsequent claim for rent supplement from her was disallowed in December 2004, on the basis that her means were in excess of the statutory limit. She was informed of her right of appeal against this decision. No appeal has been received from her to date.
128 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position regarding an appeal by a person (details supplied) in County Kildare in relation to rent subsidy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8448/05]
Rent supplements are payable to eligible people by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive, which administers the supplementary welfare allowance scheme on my behalf. To receive a rent supplement a person must satisfy the statutory condition that there is a housing need which he or she is unable to meet from another source.
The Health Service Executive has advised that the person concerned had vacated her local authority house. Her subsequent application for rent supplement was disallowed on the grounds that she had alternative accommodation available to her through the local authority. Her appeal against this decision was unsuccessful.
Further information has emerged about the medical condition of the person concerned and the executive has advised that it is reviewing her entitlement to rent supplement in the light of this information and that a decision on her eligibility for payment will be made shortly.
129 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason for the change to the supplementary welfare allowance for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8512/05]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive. The southern region office of the executive has advised that there has been no change in the amount of assistance being provided to this person under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, and that she is being paid at the maximum weekly personal rate. However, the person concerned has been requested by the community welfare officer to provide additional information to determine whether she continues to have entitlement to payment. Her entitlement will be reviewed on receipt of that information.
130 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if such funding as is available to regional airports under PSO contracted subvention, the NDP capital grant scheme and the marketing, safety and security grant scheme, might be available to Shannon Airport, particularly in view of the recent chamber of commerce report, EU/US Air Transport Agreement — Potential Impact on Ireland. [8413/05]
None of the State airports receives Exchequer support and it is not envisaged that that situation will change when Shannon and Cork airports become fully independent in accordance with the framework provided in the State Airports Act 2004. Aside from a debt free start, which of course in itself will be a major boost for the new Shannon Airport Authority, the funding of future developments at each of the three airports will be a matter for commercial consideration by the new independent airport authorities.
131 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the status of the review of Statutory Instrument No. 209 of 1994; if he has sought submissions from local authorities; the timescale for completion of the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8510/05]
A comprehensive review of the classification of the national and regional road system was concluded in 1994 as set out in Statutory Instrument, S.I., 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. It is anticipated that the update will be concluded later this year.
132 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport if assistance or support is available to persons who have mild learning difficulties with sitting their driving test (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8511/05]
In the case of the practical driving test, where a candidate notifies my Department of the existence of a disability, it is the practice to assign the test to a supervisory driver tester who has more time to conduct the test. The oral part of the driving test is in place to establish the candidate's knowledge of the rules of the road but a candidate cannot fail the driving test solely on this aspect.
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. Driver theory test appointments are arranged by the driver theory testing service which may be contacted at LoCall number 1890 606106. Correspondence may be addressed to the customer service manager at PO Box 144, Drogheda, County Louth.
133 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has been paid for the land acquired for construction of a cable car from Innishbiggle Island to mainland Mayo. [8412/05]
No moneys have been paid to the individual concerned in respect of acquisition of land on Inishbiggle for the construction of a cable car.
134 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the need to provide grant aid to enable a community centre to be built in Cobh; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that there is a shortfall in the funding required; if he will make grant aid available to meet this shortfall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8508/05]
No application has been received from the group concerned under schemes operated by my Department. However, in response to a letter received by me from the group, my officials have been in contact with the group explaining the schemes operated by my Department, including the limits of funding available under the schemes.
135 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position with a single payment for a person (details supplied). [8426/05]
The person named applied for consideration of force majeure or exceptional circumstances on 11 November 2004. Having fully examined the circumstances outlined by the person named, my Department is satisfied that force majeure circumstances should apply in this case. The year 2001 will be excluded and the years 2000 and 2002 only will be used in the calculation of the provisional single payment entitlements in this case. The person named was notified of this decision on 8 March 2005.
A statement of provisional entitlements reflecting this position will issue shortly to the person named.
136 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will review the planned regulation for transposing EC Directive 2004/28 into Irish law in view of the opposition from all major farming groups and the veterinary profession; the consultation which will take place on this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8500/05]
The package of changes, the principles of which were announced by my predecessor a year ago, are not designed to implement EU Directive 2004/28 in Ireland. Rather, they are designed to address a number of issues and problems identified with the existing national regime, in particular, by making the prescribing regime more workable and effective and by extending the range of outlets which may supply on foot of a prescription. There has been wide consultation with stakeholders, including farmers and the veterinary profession, during the formulation of this package and the next stage in this process is to formally consult with the animal remedies consultative committee as provided for in the relevant legislation.
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 availability of products "off-prescription", will remain in place.
137 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the case of a person (details supplied). [8397/05]
The visa application referred to by the Deputy was refused by my Department at initial stage, on 14 September 2004. The Deputy should note that marriage to an Irish national does not automatically carry any entitlement to the granting of a visa to enter the State. In cases such as this, the visa officer will, among other considerations, look for sufficient evidence of a clear pre-existing link between the applicant and their sponsor.
There is a general reluctance to approve visas for persons whose sole reference in Ireland has never met them or has met them only once during a brief visit abroad. This would have been taken into account in reaching a decision on this application as no evidence of a prior meeting was supplied. It was also noted that there appeared to be inconsistencies in the application that were not addressed by the applicant.
An appeal was received in respect of this application on 24 January 2005 but, based on the additional evidence supplied, the visa appeals officer was unable to conclude that the original decision should be overturned. Consequently, the application was refused on appeal on 16 February 2005.
As each application is entitled to only one appeal, it is not possible to further re-examine the case. A fresh application must be submitted should the applicant still wish to travel. Any such application should be accompanied by additional supporting documentation that it is felt will address the reasons for refusal outlined above and previously notified to the applicant on 19 November 2004.
138 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the person who is undertaking the proposed review in relation to the proposed changes in support for workers under the equal opportunities child care programme; the criteria being used for the review; the way in which very disadvantaged, as distinct from disadvantaged communities will be defined; and the consultation process he has undertaken with community child care providers about this review. [8398/05]
172 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform , further to Parliamentary Question No. 206 of 2 March 2005, if he will be in a position to provide information regarding the introduction of new arrangements for the funding of child care groups for which a three year funding envelope or any subsequent continuation funding becomes exhausted by 31 August 2005, and which can demonstrate a clear focus on disadvantage before 1 April 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8493/05]
173 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which community based and not for profit child care services can demonstrate a clear focus on disadvantage in order to qualify for renewal of funding to projects under the equal opportunities child care programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8494/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 138, 172 and 173 together.
The €499 million Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-06, EOCP, includes a measure which provides grant assistance towards staffing costs for community based not for profit child care services which serve disadvantaged parents through the provision of reduced cost child care to support the parents when they are in employment, education and training. About €180 million of the programme funding has been set aside for this purpose to cover the period to end 2007, with the remainder going to capital development and to quality enhancement.
Staffing grants are normally made available for three years in the first instance. In assessing grant applications, ADM Ltd., which undertakes project appraisals on behalf of my Department, looks at information submitted by the group, such as the socioeconomic profile of the area and the group's target client group, the local levels of deprivation, the ethos of the group towards disadvantage including the numbers of places which it intends to set aside for children from disadvantaged families and children with special needs and the proposed fee structure for the service. It also uses externally available material such as the deprivation index to review and confirm these data and also consults with the county child care committee on each application to get reinforced local knowledge.
Total commitments to date from this staffing grant allocation are approximately €105 million and this is assisting with the cost of delivering child care for about 22,000 children. While it was envisaged that some groups would progress to sustainability after the initial three year grant, it was always expected that some groups in particularly disadvantaged areas would require ongoing support towards the cost of delivering child care for particularly disadvantaged parents. It is in this context that the present review is taking place. In the interim, staffing grant assistance at existing levels is continuing for all projects which are delivering their agreed targets of child care service.
The review is being carried out by the child care directorate of my Department in conjunction with Area Development Management Ltd., the company which manages the day to day operations of the programme. The review is primarily focused on those projects which will have already received three or more years of staffing funding under the programme at any date prior to 31 August 2005. It is not the intention of this review to reduce, in any way, the overall level of funding directed at projects which support disadvantaged families, but rather to ensure that all this funding is put to the best possible use in terms of assisting those families most in need to end the cycle of disadvantage in which they find themselves.
From the perspective of the national development plan, of which the EOCP is an element, social exclusion is defined as the cumulative marginalisation from production or employment, from consumption or poverty, from social networks, community, family and neighbours, from decision making and from an adequate quality of life. It is clear that any assessment of the disadvantage experienced by a grant recipient under the EOCP will involve the consideration of different factors depending on the circumstances of the particular group.
One of the more important quantitative tools which has been used in the context of the review is the index of relative affluence and deprivation, which is regularly used by ADM Ltd. in its appraisal work under the EOCP. The index was first developed in the late 1990s and was recently updated using data from the 2002 national census. The index is based on three of the underlying dimensions of social disadvantage: demographic decline; labour market deprivation and social class disadvantage. The scores for the index are derived from a number of general population indicators including male and female unemployment rates, percentage of population with primary school education only, percentage of population with third level education and thepercentage of households with children aged 15 years and under which are headed by a single parent.
Every recommendation which comes to me on the funding of projects is made following consultation between ADM and the grant applicant, ADM and the relevant county child care committee, and by the programme appraisal committee. I expect that each case for continuing staffing funding will be examined through the same process as a result of which informed decisions will be made. I am hopeful that I will be in a position to clarify arrangements to groups in late April or early May, following the meetings of the two monitoring committees which oversee the delivery of the EOCP.
139 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will meet the sister of one of the victims of the Grangegorman murders; and the process by which a decision will be made on the request for an inquiry into the Garda handling of the Grangegorman murders. [8399/05]
I have received representations from solicitors representing the sister of one of the victims of the Grangegorman murders of 6 and 7 March 1997 requesting that there be an independent public inquiry into the Garda investigation of the murder. As I have indicated to the House previously, I am not at present satisfied that the investigation which has been performed has fallen short of the standard required by the European Convention on Human Rights or of the potential effectiveness of a full public tribunal of inquiry.
However, in view of matters which have been raised, and in order 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 a detailed report, which I have requested from the Garda authorities on matters arising in this case.
I will consider the matter further taking into account any further submissions made to me, advice from the Attorney General and a report from the Garda authorities. As I have also previously indicated to the House, the criminal investigation into these two murders is not closed and that this would have clear implications for what further action, if any, I may consider.
140 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if additional gardaí will be allocated to the Drimnagh area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8400/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda resources, including personnel, that the Drimnagh area is policed by gardaí attached to Crumlin and Sundrive Road Garda stations. The personnel strength of Crumlin Garda station as at 9 March 2005 was 88 including all ranks. The personnel strength of Sundrive Road Garda station as at 9 March 2005 was 64 including all ranks.
I am further informed that Garda personnel assigned to the Crumlin and Sundrive Road areas, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.
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 agreed programme for Government commitment in this regard. 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 draw up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of Crumlin and Sundrive Road Garda stations will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country. Clearly, of course, 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.
141 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the options open to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; if there is a mechanism to re-open this person’s appeal to consider the full facts of the case; and if he will agree to do so. [8420/05]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 5 January 2004 and claimed asylum. His application was refused by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and on appeal by the Office of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. He was notified of my decision to refuse him refugee status by letter of 20 October 2004 and afforded three options: to leave the State before his case was considered for deportation; consent to the making of a deportation order in respect of him; make written representations, within 15 working days, setting out the reasons why he should not be deported, that is, why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
His case was examined under section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, prohibition of refoulement. A deportation order was made in respect of him on 26 January 2005. The order was served on him requiring him to present himself to the Garda national immigration bureau on 17 February 2005. He presented as requested and is due to present again to the bureau on Thursday, 10 March 2005, for arrangements to be made with the Nigerian Embassy for the issue of travel documents.
His legal representatives recently lodged an application for re-admission to the asylum process with the ministerial decisions unit of my Department pursuant to section 17 (7) of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended. However, after careful consideration of the case, and having regard to the views expressed by the independent monitoring committee about the handling of his appeal by the refugee legal service, my Department concluded that the new material submitted to support his request did not significantly add to the likelihood of him qualifying for asylum and, as such, the request for re-admission to the process was refused.
The deportation order remains extant and the Garda national immigration bureau will be making arrangements for his return to Nigeria as soon as travel documents are available from the Nigerian Embassy.
142 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will consider the repatriation of a person (details supplied) to this country from England to serve the remainder of their prison sentence here. [8425/05]
My Department has not as yet received a formal application for a transfer to this country under the Council of Europe convention on the transfer of sentenced persons in respect of this person from the United Kingdom authorities. My Department has made inquiries of the United Kingdom authorities in this case and has been informed that the United Kingdom authorities are currently collating the necessary documentation in support of the person's case before transmitting the application for my consideration.
143 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the naturalisation of persons (details supplied); the position regarding the certificate of registration in the documentation stamped in the persons’ passports; if the certificates are complementary to each other; if the stamped statement in the passports takes precedence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8445/05]
A person who is lawfully resident in the State is under a legal obligation to register with the Garda Síochána. Thus, even though a person has the permission of the Minister to be in the State, he may be in breach of immigration law if he or she fails to register.
However, the converse of this situation is that if a person has, through some error or omission, failed to obtain a stamp in his passport, the existence of the registration certificate, although not in itself the actual permission, will be taken as sufficient evidence of residency for naturalisation purposes.
Inquiries made about the Deputy's question disclosed that the applicants had periods where they had received permission to remain in the State which were not noted in their passport. I have asked my officials to look into this matter having regard to the foregoing and to contact the Deputy and both applicants directly with their findings in this regard.
144 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí by rank, who are based in the national drugs unit at Dublin Castle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8464/05]
145 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí, by rank, who are attached to the national drugs unit but are based outside Dublin Castle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8465/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 144 and 145 together.
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, by rank, of the Garda national drugs unit as at 9 March 2005 was as set out hereunder:
|
Rank |
Number |
|
Chief Superintendent |
1 |
|
Superintendent |
2 |
|
Inspectors |
3 |
|
Sergeants |
10 |
|
Gardaí |
35 |
|
Total |
51 |
I am further informed that all members of the Garda Síochána attached to the Garda national drugs unit are based at Dublin Castle.
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 agreed programme for Government commitment in this regard. 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 draw up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of the Garda national drugs unit will be fully considered within the context of the resource needs throughout the country. Clearly, of course, 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.
146 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the quantity of seized drugs currently in storage under the national drugs unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8466/05]
I am informed by the Garda Síochána that for security reasons it would be inappropriate to detail the quantity of drugs stored at any particular location at any given time.
147 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of seizures and the value of drugs seized by the national drugs unit in each of the years 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8467/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of seizures and the value of drugs seized by the national drugs unit in the years 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 are as in the table.
|
Year |
No. of Seizures |
Estimated Street Value |
|
€ |
||
|
2001 |
31 |
29,584,250 |
|
2002 |
29 |
29,856,000 |
|
2003 |
39 |
39,129,200 |
|
2004 |
31 |
20,129,200 |
The second table sets out details of joint operations carried out with the customs national drugs team over the same period.
|
Year |
No. of Seizures |
Estimated Street Value |
|
€ |
||
|
2001 |
44 |
10,400,000 |
|
2002 |
7 |
600,000 |
|
2003 |
38 |
11,000,000 |
|
2004 |
28 |
8,755,000 |
148 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has plans to expand the national drugs unit; if so, the reason therefor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8468/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the operational strength of the Garda national drugs unit is kept under review having regard to the issues of drug supply and criminality within the State, available resources and other policing priorities. The operational strength of the Garda national drugs unit will be reviewed having regard to the prevailing circumstances and the recent decision by the Government to increase the overall strength of the Garda Síochána.
149 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of updates or modifications which have been made to PULSE since its rollout; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8469/05]
150 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the extent to which the absence of a PULSE terminal in many Garda stations impacts upon the presence of gardaí in such stations and the ability of a sergeant to supervise or check the input of data into PULSE by gardai from such stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8470/05]
151 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason no study has been conducted or account been taken of the amount of Garda time lost in travelling to and from Garda stations to input data into the nearest PULSE terminal, the amount of Garda time lost in inputting data into PULSE and the amount of Garda time lost due to the slowness of the PULSE system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8471/05]
152 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the longest distance between a Garda station which does not have PULSE and a Garda station which does have a PULSE terminal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8472/05]
153 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which the PULSE system compares to computer systems of technologically advanced police forces in other jurisdictions under the headings of availability, efficiency, operability and effectiveness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8473/05]
154 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a patrol car can be periodically unavailable for normal patrols because a garda has to take it to travel to another station to input date into PULSE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8474/05]
155 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of the implementation of plans to recruit civilians to input data into PULSE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8475/05]
156 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of other jurisdictions whose representatives in the past three years have visited the State to see PULSE with a view to acquiring the same system for their own police forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8476/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 149 to 156, inclusive, together.
In replies that I have given to parliamentary questions on PULSE on a number of occasions recently, I have addressed this matter in considerable detail. In that regard, I refer the Deputy to my most recent response to his Priority Question No. 59 on Wednesday, 16 February 2005.
The specific additional information requested by the Deputy is as follows: PULSE is the primary IT operational system for the Garda Síochána. It manages incidents from its initial capture through to final disposition of the incident, including recording of court outcomes where appropriate. Due to the scale of the system, it was implemented in four major releases from April and May 1999 to October and November 2003. Between these major releases, smaller releases addressing application fixes and small scale additional functionality have been undertaken. Development of the system is always subject to review. For example, a pilot project on the electronic transfer of summons applications to the Courts Service and receipt of courts schedules and court outcome data is at the early stage of development.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that PULSE compares favourably to computer systems used by other police forces. The system operates on a 24 hours per day, 365 days per year basis and during 2004 was operational for 99% of that time. One of the features of PULSE is that it is an integrated system with information captured once only and made available to operational members as required, including the provision of a single point for searches and queries. There was extensive user involvement in the design of the system to ensure that there is a consistent "look and feel" across all system areas.
Under the present coverage of PULSE, at 181 locations nationwide, over 75% of Garda personnel have direct access to the system in their own stations. I might point out that it was never the intention to have the PULSE facility in all 703 stations, many of which are manned for a limited number of hours per day or, in some cases, per week.
A review of the effectiveness of PULSE will be undertaken in the context of the Garda Síochána Information and Communications Strategy 2005-09. One of the issues for review is the approach to further extension of the system to non-networked locations. On the issue of the most appropriate way of inputting data to PULSE, including the amount of Garda time involved in the process, a working group has been set up to consider these matters. Consideration is being given by the group, inter alia, to call centre type operations using civilians. While I do not want to pre-empt the outcome of the various streams of work currently underway, my aim is for the PULSE system to operate in the most effective and efficient way possible.
From time to time the situation does arise when members travel to the nearest networked station to input and update PULSE data. However, I am advised by the Garda authorities that this practice is kept to a minimum and generally affects rural areas where there is a smaller number of PULSE incidents. The longest distance by road between a Garda station which is equipped with PULSE and one that is not so equipped is 39 miles.
On the question of supervision or checking of the input of data, a supervisory sergeant has the ability to log onto the system and review all incidents created. Finally, I am advised by the Garda Authorities that in the past three years there have been three visits by other jurisdictions, namely Norway, Iceland and Spain, to view the PULSE system.
157 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if Finglas Garda station represents a suitable environment in which Garda can police a community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8477/05]
158 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide a deadline by which Finglas Garda station will be relocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8478/05]
159 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when repair and refurbishment of Finglas Garda station will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8479/05]
160 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way and location in which gardaí at Finglas station should receive persons wishing to discuss a private matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8480/05]
161 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the degree to which the policing of the Finglas area is being compromised by poor Garda station accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8481/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 157 to 161, inclusive, together.
In the case of Finglas Garda station, which is not of an acceptable standard, I have already stated that immediate priority is being given to providing a new Garda station there. A suitable site has been identified by the Office of Public Works on the Mellowes Road, and I understand that it is in negotiation to agree the terms for the purchase.
The Deputy will appreciate that the precise date when construction of the new station can commence is in the first instance dependent on the site being acquired by the Office of Public Works. In that regard, I am assured that the purchase is being pursued as quickly as possible.
In the interim, in addition to carrying out certain necessary refurbishment works to the station, the Office of Public Works is endeavouring to negotiate a short-term lease for additional space in Finglas village to alleviate the accommodation problems at the station.
162 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations which have been prioritised for repairs; the length of time each such station has been prioritised as such; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8482/05]
The Garda authorities do not prioritise Garda stations for repairs. I refer the Deputy to my response to Question No. 109, ref. 5080/05, of 16 February 2005 in which I stated, inter alia, that all Garda accommodation is continually under review to ensure that it meets the operational requirements of the Garda Síochána. As I indicated, where it does not meet those requirements, the required refurbishment or construction works are completed by the Office of Public Works with all due urgency and in accordance with overall priorities within the Garda building programme and the availability of financial and other resources.
In addition, in excess of €7 million has been allocated in the Garda Vote for 2005 for necessary maintenance works to Garda premises. In that context, I am satisfied that every effort is being made and will continue to be made, to ensure a high standard of Garda premises throughout the country.
163 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the commitments made in “Regulating Better”, he will publish the heads or draft amendments which he proposes to make to the Criminal Justice Bill 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8483/05]
I made the general scheme of the Bill available to the Human Rights Commission and to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Womens' Rights to encourage a broad debate on the proposals to be contained in the Criminal Justice Bill, prior to its publication. It is my intention to take the same approach to the proposed heads providing for amendments to the Bill as soon as I have obtained Government approval for the drafting of the amendments.
164 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the proposed new centralised immigration service will publish a customer charter; his views on whether it should adopt a customer service type culture more commonly found in the private sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8484/05]
The Government has approved the establishment of the Irish naturalisation and immigration service, INIS, which will be an executive office within the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. A primary aim of the executive office will be to improve the customer services provided to migrants. It will incorporate the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform's current structures dealing with asylum, immigration and citizenship.
The practical arrangements necessary to set up this executive office will be implemented over the course of 2005. There are currently customer service charters operating in the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. The Department itself will publish its customer service charter shortly. It is intended that the INIS will initially operate under these existing customer service charters and consideration will be given to appropriate arrangements for the future.
165 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí planned or estimated to be on duty in Dublin for the Dublin Skyfest event 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8486/05]
166 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí expected to be on duty in Dublin for the duration of the St. Patrick’s Day parade in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8487/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 165 and 166 together.
The Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda resources, including personnel, have stated that for security and operational reasons they do not disclose the number of personnel who will perform duty in any particular area over a certain period of time.
167 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied with the operation of and services provided by the probation and welfare service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8488/05]
My predecessor, Deputy O'Donoghue, set up an expert group to examine the probation and welfare service under the chairmanship of Mr. Brian McCarthy. This group produced its first report in November 1998. The final report was published in May 1999 and made several recommendations.
Many of the recommendations of the expert group report have been implemented by my Department. Staffing levels have been raised. There has been substantial investment in a customised IT system and an IT unit has been established. The new technology, when fully operational, will have the capacity to produce information about the utilisation and effectiveness of community sanctions and will provide information about crime in Ireland not previously available. A common State funded public liability insurance scheme has been put in place to enable a greater number of community groups to have community service projects operated on their premises without the need to incur substantial insurance costs. These are some of the measures which have been implemented.
The service has responsibility for implementing those orders of the court which require the supervision of offenders by the probation and welfare staff, that is, probation and other supervision orders and orders which require work to be performed by way of retribution to society, for example, community service orders. The service also provides to courts pre-sanction assessment reports which enable judges, in determining sentence, to take into account the personal and social circumstances of the offender, the level of risk that further crime will be committed if he or she remains in the community, the attitude of the offender to the victim of the crime and the work programme available to the offender to prevent involvement in further crime.
The service supervises both serious and less serious offenders, who are placed under supervision orders by the courts. It also supervises persons released by order of the Minister of Justice, Equality and Law Reform from prisons and places of detention, including life sentence prisoners who have served substantial periods in custody. It has a youth justice section which has been resourced to implement the provisions of the Children Act 2001 throughout the jurisdiction. It also provides a limited service to the Irish Prison Service, working with the other prison based disciplines towards the rehabilitation of those in prison. In addition, it also prepares detailed assessment reports for the interim parole board.
In recent years the service has been under pressure to meet the growing demands of both the courts and the Prison Service. This has led to some delays in the provision of reports to courts and in the implementation of probation and community service orders. These are some of the issues which are currently being examined by my Department.
In terms of the future organisation and structure of the service, I have set up a small working group involving departmental and probation and welfare officials to build on existing work, including the expert group report and the value for money audit of the service, to identify: the type of services that may be required in the future; their relative priority; the resource implications and different methods of providing the services; and the research and evaluation available or required to determine the effectiveness of options. The group is expected to report before the end of this year.
168 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the unavailability of 2,000 extra gardaí, the gardaí engaged in speed detection should adopt a high visibility approach rather than the predominantly stealthy approach favoured by them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8489/05]
My proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis over a number of years was approved by the Government in October 2004 in line with the commitment in the agreed programme for Government. The number of gardaí assigned to the traffic corps, which was established in November 2004, will increase from the current level of approximately 530 to 1,200 by 2008.
The assignment of gardaí to the traffic corps will be done on a phased basis in tandem with the recruitment of almost 1,100 recruits in each of the next three years. In addition, the Government recently approved the appointment of an additional assistant commissioner, who the commissioner has appointed to take responsibility for traffic matters, including the traffic corps.
The methods employed by the Garda Síochána in the detection or prevention of any offence are an operational matter for the Garda Síochána and I have no direct role relating to them. Both overt and covert enforcement activities are carried out by the Garda Síochána, as both have a role to play in an effective enforcement programme. Furthermore, both covert and high visibility checkpoints are operated by the Garda Síochána to detect speeding motorists. The locations for these checkpoints are determined by the collision prevention programme, which identifies collision prone locations. These locations are then targeted for checkpoints with a view to detecting speeding motorists, changing driver behaviour and, ultimately, reducing death and injuries on our roads.
169 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of the Garda’s capability of speed detection in the hours of darkness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8490/05]
170 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if Garda hand held or tripod type speed detection equipment can effectively operate in hours of darkness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8491/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 and 170 together.
The type of speed detection equipment available to members of the Garda Síochána can operate effectively in the hours of darkness.
171 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to acquire new speed detection equipment for gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8492/05]
There are no proposals by the Garda authorities to acquire new speed detection equipment for the Garda Síochána.
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 a range of issues concerning speed cameras, including the parameters for outsourcing their provision and operation and the interaction of any private sector operation with other agencies. Work is well advanced on preparing proposals and the group is due to report to me and the Minister for Transport shortly. We will then consider the issues arising from the report's recommendations and, having done so, we will consider presenting proposals to Government.
174 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will report on the level of crime reduction in rural areas as a result of an increased Garda presence during the pre-Christmas 2004 drink driving campaigns; if statistics are available for crime levels for each month of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8499/05]
The statistics for headline offences for each month for the years 2002 to 2004 are as set out in the table. It would not be possible to provide the other information requested by the Deputy without using a disproportionate amount of Garda time and resources.
|
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
11,014 |
10,021 |
9,445 |
|
|
January |
Detected |
5,742 |
4,667 |
3,907 |
|
Recorded |
8,817 |
8,130 |
8,510 |
|
|
February |
Detected |
3,558 |
2,900 |
2,967 |
|
Recorded |
9,326 |
9,039 |
8,523 |
|
|
March |
Detected |
3,594 |
3,283 |
3,099 |
|
Recorded |
8,991 |
8,228 |
8,017 |
|
|
April |
Detected |
3,406 |
3,108 |
2,801 |
|
Recorded |
8,806 |
8,986 |
8,062 |
|
|
May |
Detected |
3,318 |
3,402 |
2,906 |
|
Recorded |
8,599 |
8,499 |
7,809 |
|
|
June |
Detected |
3,136 |
3,109 |
2,669 |
|
Recorded |
8,870 |
8,734 |
8,288 |
|
|
July |
Detected |
3,349 |
3,208 |
2,845 |
|
Recorded |
9,018 |
9,177 |
8,478 |
|
|
August |
Detected |
3,188 |
3,156 |
2,871 |
|
Recorded |
8,200 |
8,436 |
8,013 |
|
|
September |
Detected |
3,039 |
2,978 |
2,515 |
|
Recorded |
8,483 |
8,427 |
8,321 |
|
|
October |
Detected |
3,089 |
2,999 |
2,845 |
|
Recorded |
8,554 |
8,103 |
8,141 |
|
|
November |
Detected |
3,031 |
2,749 |
2,608 |
|
Recorded |
7,638 |
7,840 |
7,369 |
|
|
December |
Detected |
2,649 |
2,604 |
2,508 |
|
Total |
Recorded |
106,316 |
103,620 |
98,976 |
|
Detected |
41,099 |
38,163 |
34,541 |
175 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department has received a letter from a school (details supplied) in Dublin 4 on the special needs assistant hours for a person at the school; the steps she has taken to address the issues raised in that letter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8405/05]
My Department has received the letter referred to by the Deputy. The letter concerns the level of special needs assistant support, SNA, sanctioned to the school. The level of SNA support in the school in question is due to be reviewed shortly and the special care needs of the pupils in the school will be considered during this review. The result of the review will be notified to the school authorities as soon as it becomes available.
176 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the establishment of an autistic unit in a school (details supplied) in County Donegal. [8406/05]
My Department has received an application to establish a special class for autism from the school referred to by the Deputy. My officials are currently liaising with the school authorities regarding the application.
177 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the deplorable state of toilets at schools (details supplied) in Dublin 10; and the funding which is available to the schools for refurbishment. [8407/05]
The scope of works referred to by the Deputy is appropriate for consideration under the summer works scheme, SWS. While a joint application was received from the schools in question under the SWS for 2005, it did not refer to a toilet upgrade. The schools applied for replacement windows and this application was successful. If toilet works are necessary, it will be open to the management authorities to apply for this under the SWS for 2006, details of which will be announced later this year.
178 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science if a national school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny is included in the staffing schedule review currently in progress within her Department; and when a report is likely to be available on this review. [8421/05]
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. The system for allocating teachers to primary schools is based on ensuring an overall maximum class of 29 in each school. Where some classes in a school have class sizes of greater than 29, it is generally because a decision has been taken at local level to use the teaching resources to have smaller numbers in other classes.
My Department will finalise the staffing schedule for the 2005-06 school year shortly and thereafter notify school boards of management.
According to data submitted to my Department by the board of management the enrolment on 30 September 2004 in the school referred to by the Deputy was 197 pupils. The staffing for the 2005-06 school year will be determined on the basis of this figure and in accordance with the agreed staffing schedule.
179 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science when finance will be made available to a national school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny to provide temporary accommodation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8427/05]
Options to address the accommodation needs of the school to which the Deputy refers are currently under consideration in the planning and building unit of my Department. A decision in this matter will be taken as quickly as possible.
180 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether, if the situation regarding the standard of Irish in teaching does not improve, no progress will be made with the language; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8429/05]
181 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the lowering of pass marks in the Scrúdú Cáilíochta na Gaeilge last year, which is required for primary teachers who trained outside Ireland (details supplied). [8430/05]
186 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether the standard of teaching Irish has been slipping for years (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8435/05]
189 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether the poor levels of Irish among teachers is one of the main reasons for a shortage of workers who are competent in the Irish language (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8438/05]
190 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether the standard of Irish among teachers needs to be reviewed in order to help address the problem regarding the shortage of workers who are competent in the Irish language; the action she proposes to take in the matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8439/05]
191 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether one of the major problems regarding a shortage of workers who are competent in the Irish language is the large number of teachers, particularly those qualified in recent years, who do not have a competency in the Irish language; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8440/05]
193 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the combinations of factors, of which teacher training is a major element, behind poor levels of Irish resulting in a shortage of workers who are competent in Irish (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8443/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 180, 181, 186, 189, 190, 191 and 193 together.
My Department's inspectorate, on foot of a major review of Irish language policies carried out in the Department last year, has recently prepared an internal report for policy discussion. The Coimisinéir Teanga, along with other interest groups, contributed to that process. The principal recommendations highlight the need for improvements in teacher training to sustain communicative approaches at both primary and second level, a greater emphasis on oral competence in pre-service training, improvements in the supply of resource materials and additional courses for those studying for the Scrúdú le hAghaidh Cáilíochta sa Ghaeilge. The report also recommends that the increase in pupils being granted exemptions from Irish should be addressed.
My Department is investing significantly to address these issues. In particular, major improvements are being made on the provision of materials and resources for the teaching of Irish. An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta has been established to progress this area and to provide support services for schools. Extensive in-service training has been provided to teachers in the teaching of Irish, emphasising a communicative approach. Marino Institute of Education now provides courses at different levels and an enhanced range of supports for those studying for the Scrúdú le hAghaidh Cailíochta sa Ghaeilge. A new circular on exemptions from Irish is currently being drafted. However, much remains to be done and these issues will be further progressed in the light of available resources.
The Scrúdú le hAghaidh Cailíochta sa Ghaeilge, SCG, is a requirement for recognition in the case of teachers who completed their training in another EU member state. Such entrants to teaching here have been trained mainly in the United Kingdom. The change in the marking of the SCG arose from the recommendations of a working group, established in 2001, to review all aspects of the syllabus and examination. Institiúid Teangeolaíochta Éireann, the colleges of education, primary school management organisations, INTO, National Parents Council, primary, and the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment were all represented on this working group. Its report was published on my Department's website in 2004.
The SCG was the minimum standard required to teach Irish in mainstream primary schools, in Gaeltacht schools and in all Irish schools up to 2004. Since many candidates did not intend teaching in Gaeltacht or all-Irish schools, it was inappropriate to require the same standard of Irish of all teachers. The group recommended a differentiated approach under which those who gained 70% or more in the examination would be eligible to teach in Gaeltacht and all-Irish schools, while those who gained a pass grade would be recognised for English medium schools. The group recommended the pass mark for all modules be reduced from 50% to 40%, in line with the pass mark commonly used at third level. Entry to primary teacher training in Ireland requires a minimum of grade C at higher level in leaving certificate Irish.
The position on the teaching and learning of Irish will be continuously reviewed and a range of further evaluations and studies in this area is under way. This will be important in helping to bring about sustained improvements, particularly in the area of oral competence and communicative approaches. However, it is an accepted tenet of linguistic research that a language will struggle where a society does not create an environment for its active everyday use.
182 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether it is unacceptable that many children leave school unable to converse properly in Irish, especially when compared with children from France, Germany and so forth who, after the same amount of study of the English language, have an ability to speak English (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8431/05]
183 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether a poor return is being made, after investment of time and money, in terms of learning Irish (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8432/05]
184 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether one of the reasons there is a demand for Gaelscoileanna is the fall in standard of teaching Irish in other schools (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8433/05]
185 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will publish the recommendations of the working group that was set up in her Department in 2002 to analyse education through Irish (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8434/05]
187 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether many children are leaving school unable to converse properly in Irish (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8436/05]
188 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that children attending a school (details supplied) arrive with little Irish but that at the end of three weeks they have plenty of Irish; if she will have this matter investigated with a view to improving teaching methods of Irish in schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8437/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 182, 183, 184, 185, 187 and 188 together.
Under the auspices of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, curricula at both primary and second level have been reformed and are now based on internationally recognised language learning principles developed through research work under the auspices of the Council of Europe and other international bodies. In line with these principles, the curricula place an emphasis on oral language competency, including listening and speaking skills.
My Department's inspectorate, on foot of a major review of Irish language policies carried out in the Department last year, has recently prepared an internal report for policy discussion. The Coimisinéir Teanga, along with other interest groups, contributed to that process. The principal recommendations highlight the need for improvements in teacher training to sustain communicative approaches at both primary and second level, a greater emphasis on oral competence in pre-service training, improvements in the supply of resource materials and additional courses for those studying for the Scrúdu le hAghaidh Cáilíochta sa Ghaeilge. The report also recommends that the increase in pupils being granted exemptions from Irish should be addressed.
My Department is investing significantly to address these issues. In particular, major improvements are being been made in regard to the provision of materials and resources for the teaching of Irish. An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscoilaíochta has been established to progress this area and to provide support services for schools. Extensive in-service training has been provided to teachers in the teaching of Irish, emphasising a communicative approach. Marino Institute of Education now provides courses at different levels and an enhanced range of supports for those studying for the Scrúdú le hAghaidh Cailíochta sa Ghaeilge. A new circular on exemptions from Irish is currently being drafted. However, much remains to be done and these issues will be further progressed in the light of available resources.
We must be mindful of the reality that Irish society does not provide a community conduit for the language except in very limited areas and circumstances and it is an accepted tenet of linguistic research that a language will struggle where a society does not create an environment for its active everyday use.
192 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the board of management of a school (details supplied) has announced that the school will close and that the pupils have a very short period of time to find alternative secondary school places; if the boards of management of adjacent schools will be contacted by her Department with a view to ensuring that the displaced pupils will be given priority in order that they can be accommodated into the different schools having regard to the preference and choice of the pupils and their parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8441/05]
The school referred to by the Deputy is a Catholic all girls fee paying school with a total enrolment of 49 pupils. The pupil intake in September 2004 was four pupils. The trustees of the school have notified my Department that a decision has been taken to close the school in June 2005.
I am satisfied that there is sufficient capacity in post-primary schools in the area to cater for pupils who would otherwise have attended the school in question. Assistance with arrangements for specific alternative placements for pupils is in the first instance a matter for the school's management authority.
194 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to introduce manual handling training; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8451/05]
There are no plans by my Department to introduce manual handling training in schools.
My Department's teacher education section has, through the education centre network, approved and funded a number of health and safety related courses for teachers in the context of its summer course programme in 2004. The teacher education section also provides funding to education centres for the provision of courses to meet locally identified priority needs which may also include courses for teachers covering the area of health and safety.
195 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to introduce health and safety legislation to protect students from injury due to lifting excessive weights; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8452/05]
In so far as occupational health and safety legislation is concerned, this is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989, it is the responsibility of individual school management authorities to have a safety statement in place in their schools. The statement should identify potential hazards, assess the risks to health and safety and put appropriate provision in place to safeguard the safety and health of employees and pupils. The safety statement should be reviewed on a regular basis.
196 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether back and spinal injuries might be caused to students by lifting heavy schoolbags in inappropriate ways; the action she has taken or will take to address this issue; if she will take responsibility for any injuries caused; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8453/05]
A working group was set up in autumn 1997 to examine the potential problems caused by the weight of heavy schoolbags. The terms of reference of the working group were to consider the issue of heavy schoolbags and, in particular, the extent of the problem, the factors which contribute to the problem and possible implications of the problem, particularly for the health of pupils. The group was also asked to formulate proposals to alleviate problems associated with the weight of schoolbags. The group presented its report in July 1998.
The group's report outlined a number of recommendations that had implications not only for my Department but also for schools, parents and publishers. A copy of this report may be accessed on my Department's website. The report acknowledged that many of the solutions belong at local school level and one of the main recommendations related to the need to heighten the awareness of the potential health hazards posed by excessively heavy schoolbags.
In this regard my Department initiated an awareness raising campaign at primary and post-primary levels by disseminating the report with an accompanying circular to all primary and post-primary schools. Furthermore, information leaflets and posters were also distributed to all schools highlighting the potential health hazard of heavy schoolbags and outlining a range of local measures that could be adopted to alleviate the problem. It is a matter for each school to choose those measures that would be most suited to its individual needs.
Positive action has been taken by many schools. Actions taken by some schools at second level consist of a range of measures including the provision of lockers, the arrangement of the timetable into double class periods, active liaison with parents and the co-ordination of homework by subject teachers.
While the report acknowledges that heavy schoolbags pose a potential hazard it points out that many factors contribute to the problem and it therefore follows that any solution requires action not just from my Department and school authorites but also from parents, publishers of educational books and, indeed, from students themselves. In the circumstances I would not accept that it would be appropriate for my Department to accept responsibility for any injuries purportedly arising from the weight of schoolbags.
Arrangements are being made by my Department to issue a further circular on the weight of schoolbags to all schools.
197 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the conclusion by the report of the working group on the weight of schoolbags that efforts should be made to reduce the size of text books, to split the content into different volumes and to designate resource books that should be used at home in order to reduce the weight of schoolbags; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8454/05]
Apart from a small number of prescribed texts at second level, mainly in the case of language subjects, school textbooks are not approved or prescribed by my Department at first or second level. Decisions on which books to use are taken at school level.
The publication and sale of school books are in the hands of independent commercial enterprises and it is not open to me to compel publishing companies to produce texts in a particular format. However, the attention of educational publishers was drawn to the recommendations for publishers contained in the report of the working group on the weight of schoolbags circulated to all schools in 1998.
One of the main recommendations of the report of the working group was that my Department should initiate an awareness raising campaign on the potential health hazard of heavy schoolbags and, to this end, information leaflets and posters were sent to all schools highlighting the potential health hazard of heavy schoolbags and outlining a range of local measures that could be adopted to alleviate the problem.
Arrangements are currently being made by my Department to issue a further circular on the weight of schoolbags to all schools and a copy of this circular will be forwarded to the Irish Educational Publishers Association.
198 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of educational psychologists required to provide a full service to first and second level students in Waterford; the number now in place; when the NEPS in the Waterford constituency will be up to full strength; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8455/05]
The current situation is that there are three NEPS psychologists based in the Waterford office and their work is overseen by the regional director for the south-eastern region, who is also a psychologist.
It is important to note that those schools which are not yet served directly by NEPS psychologists may avail of the scheme for commissioning psychological assessments whereby NEPS will pay for assessment by a private psychologist. The conditions relating to this scheme are available on the Department's website.
199 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has been asked to repay an overpayment on salary; her views on whether this is fair; the person who was responsible for this error; the reason it was not detected earlier; the number of other cases such as this which have occurred in her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8456/05]
The policy of my Department is to recover any overpayment of salary that is made to a teacher or special needs assistant. The procedure for the recovery of an overpayment is outlined in circular 15/04.
In the case referred to by the Deputy the person was advised by correspondence from my Department of the amount of the overpayment and the options for the repayment of the moneys owed. Officials of my Department have also consulted directly with the person concerned. The overpayment will be recovered by fortnightly deductions over a period of approximately six years or on the basis of other options that the person may wish to agree to in the future. The moneys which were overpaid to the person were in excess of the authorised salary due and, accordingly, it is fair to recover them.
My Department is not aware at present of any case similar to the one referred to by the Deputy.
200 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science if the application for the review of special needs assistant support for persons (details supplied) in County Kilkenny has yet been processed; if not, when the cases are likely to be reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8495/05]
My Department considered an application for special needs assistant, SNA, support for the pupils in question. Based on the supporting documentation provided the pupils do not meet the criteria for such support. The school authorities were advised of this position on 9 December 2004.
A further review is only possible if additional supporting documentation which has not been considered previously is submitted. No such documentation has been received to date.
I wish to clarify for the Deputy that SNA support may be approved to a pupil who has a significant impairment of physical or sensory function or where their behaviour is such that they are a danger to themselves or other pupils. The criteria used for the assessment of the need for SNA support are outlined in my Department's circular 07/02. I am making arrangements to furnish a copy of the circular to the Deputy.
201 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the concerns of parents and teachers at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11 regarding the imminent staffing shortages for the 2005 to 2006 school year; if her Department has conducted a study or review into the impact of the loss of a teacher to the school; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that it will lead to split classes with 32 pupils each in three junior classes; if this contradicts the commitment in the programme for Government to ensure that the average pupil-teacher ratio in classes of children under nine years will be the international best practice guidelines of 20:1; and the reason one of the 1,600 teachers due to graduate in June 2005 cannot be allocated to this school. [8496/05]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by applying the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year to a staffing schedule agreed between my Department and the education partners.
The system for allocating teachers to primary schools is based on ensuring an overall maximum class of 29 in each school. Where some classes in a school have class sizes of greater than 29 it is generally because a decision has been taken at local level to use the teaching resources to have smaller numbers in other classes. My Department will finalise the staffing schedule for the 2005 to 2006 school year shortly and thereafter notify school boards of management.
According to data submitted to my Department by the board of management, the enrolment on 30 September 2004 in the school refered to by the Deputy was 439 pupils. The staffing for the 2005 to 2006 school year will be determined on the basis of this figure and in accordance with the agreed staffing schedule.
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 to 1997 school year to 17.44:1 in the 2003 to 2004 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.
202 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Waterford has not been seen by an educational psychologist from the NEPS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8497/05]
As existing assessment reports showed that the named student was eligible for additional support in respect of his varied needs, my Department has allocated resource hours and a special needs assistant to him. A psychological report from NEPS was therefore not needed for the purpose of determining his eligibility for additional resources and, in fact, the school has not requested their assigned NEPS psychologist to assess him.
However, since he entered the school the NEPS psychologist has engaged in a number of consultations with school staff to advise them on how best to manage the student's behaviour. If at any stage the school authorities also feel that an educational psychological assessment would be helpful this will certainly be considered and discussed with them.
203 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if there is a possibility of altering an examination timetable (details supplied); if she will investigate the matter; if it is possible to make alternative arrangements in certain cases; the circumstances under which an alternative sitting may take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8498/05]
On foot of a Government decision, the then Minister for Education and Science formally established the State Examinations Commission on 6 March 2003. The commission now has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations, such as the time tabling of examinations. Accordingly, I have passed the Deputy's query to the chief executive officer of the commission for direct reply.
204 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the application by a person (details supplied) in County Laois for an additional increment to their Defence Forces pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8408/05]
205 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the award of additional increments to Defence Forces pensions authorised under paragraph nine of the Defence Forces (Pension) (Amendment) (No.3) Scheme, 1978; the terms under which this increment is paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8409/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 204 and 205 together.
Under the Defence Forces pension schemes the minimum service required for an immediate pension in the case of NCOs and privates is 21 years. The pension for 21 years service consists of the following elements: a basic flat rate pension which varies according to rank; an addition in respect of military service allowance, MSA, in the case of qualified personnel discharged since August 1990; and an addition in respect of technician pay and certain other additional payments that were made during service. All of these elements of pension are payable for the lifetime of the pensioner.
Where service exceeds 21 years the Defence Forces pension is increased by an additional increment for each such year of service up to a maximum of 31 years. This additional increment is payable at a flat rate for each year of service with a small increase if the individual qualifies for the latter addition mentioned above. A top up of the MSA addition is also payable in the case of personnel with 31 or more years' service. These extra payments cease to be payable when the pensioner reaches the qualifying age of 66 years for an old age contributory pension or becomes entitled at an earlier age to a social welfare retirement pension.
These arrangements are in accordance with the principle of integration of occupational pensions with social insurance benefits in the case of employees, such as NCOs and privates, who are fully insured under the Social Welfare Acts. This principle applies across the public service and in many areas of the private sector. I should say, however, that the method of applying the integration principle in the case of retired NCOs and privates is less severe than that applying in other areas of the public service.
The person referred to reached 66 years of age on 21 January 2005 and the arrangements mentioned were applied to his Defence Forces pension from that date.
The general issue of integration of occupational pensions in the public service was examined by the commission on public service pensions in its final report published in January 2001. The commission accepted that integration is a fundamental component in the public service pensions framework and was strongly of the view that it should be continued. It did not make any recommendations that would affect the current integration arrangements applicable to retired NCOs and privates.
206 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Defence the properties that have been sold by his Department each year since 1997; the amount made by each property; the amount or other resource that was made available to the local community in each case a sale of military property took place as compensation for any loss suffered from the sale; his current policy in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8507/05]
The Government on 15 July 1998 approved a programme of evacuation and sale of six barracks considered surplus to military requirements. The barracks in question were located at Ballincollig, Fermoy, Castleblayney, Naas, Kildare and Dublin.
The sale of approximately 97 acres at Murphy Barracks, Ballincollig, County Cork, was completed in 2003 for a total of €42 million. The majority of the land was purchased by O'Flynn Construction. The sale of a site comprising approximately 2.7 acres to the Southern Heath Board for €1.73 million was completed last December. It was agreed at that time to transfer an area comprising approximately 27 acres at Murphy Barracks to Cork County Council for community use and title to this area is currently being transferred to the council. Agreement has also been reached for the sale of a site comprising approximately 1.7 acres to the Department of Education and Science for approximately €1.1 million. A half acre site has been set aside on foot of a request from the Office of Public Works for a plot of ground to facilitate extension to the existing Garda station located on Main Street, Ballincollig.
A site comprising 19.218 acres at the former Fitzgerald camp, Fermoy, County Cork, was sold for €973,889 to Cork County Council in 2001 for development in conjunction with the IDA. Castleblayney military post, County Monaghan, which comprised approximately ten acres, was sold to the North Eastern Health Board for €761,843 in 2002. At Devoy Barracks, Naas, County Kildare seven acres were ceded free of charge to Naas Urban District Council while a further 14 acres were sold to that authority for €8,888,167. The remaining one acre of that barracks' lands was sold to Kildare County Council for €380,921 in 2002.
Clancy Barracks, Dublin, which is a site comprising approximately 13.65 acres, was sold to Florence Properties Limited for €25.4 million in 2004. The Government decided in July 2003 that Magee Barracks, Kildare, County Kildare, would be among the State lands released for inclusion in the Sustaining Progress affordable housing initiative. The modalities of the transfer of this property as well as lands at Gormanston, County Meath, St. Bricin's Hospital, Dublin, and Collins Barracks, Cork, to the relevant local authorities are under active consideration in consultation with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Chief State Solicitor's office.
The Government decided in February 2000 in the context of the White Paper on defence that all the proceeds from sales of surplus military properties would be reinvested in equipment and infrastructure for the Defence Forces.
Disposals involving a number of other military properties surplus to requirements were also completed during the period since 1997. The principal properties were as follows: 6.39 acres adjoining Collins Barracks, Cork, and known as Susan's Field was sold to Cork City Council for €1.523 million; approximately 3.4 acres at Sarsfield Barracks, Limerick, was disposed of to Limerick City Council for €1.162 million; a site comprising approximately 0.931 acre adjacent to my Department's FCA premises in Kanturk, County Cork, was disposed of to the Southern Health Board for a consideration of €0.178 million; approximately 1.559 acres at Waterford Barracks was sold to Waterford City Council for €0.662 million; the sale by public tender of Belmont Huts, Cobh, County Cork, which comprised approximately 2.89 acres, to a Wexford based partnership for €2.4 million was completed during 2004; and 100 married quarters at Orchard Park, Curragh, County Kildare, are being sold to the occupants. Sales to date have realised over €3 million. Total sales are expected to realise approximately €4 million.
The value of sales and disposals completed since 1997 totals in the region of €90 million.
207 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Defence , further to Parliamentary Question No. 214 of 3 March 2005, the number of meetings that have taken place with the representative associations on the induction of officers to the Permanent Defence Force; the dates of these meetings with the organisations and bodies represented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8509/05]
In accordance with the criteria set out under the Defence Forces conciliation and arbitration scheme there are regular discussions with the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers, RACO, on the induction of officers including direct entry officers in the Permanent Defence Force. These discussions are normally undertaken at a sub-committee of the conciliation council.
Under the modernisation agenda agreed under the Sustaining Progress agreement, discussions have been ongoing with RACO since March 2004 on an integrated officer induction and initial training system. A total of 15 meetings at sub-committee level have taken place on this subject since March 2004. The dates of these meetings are set out in the table.
|
Year |
Date |
|
2004 |
2, 16, and 30 March, 19 April, |
|
7 May, 1 June, 15 July, 30 August |
|
|
10, 13, 17 and 21 December |
|
|
2005 |
24 January, 15 February, 1 March, |
While PDFORRA has no direct role in induction of officers into the Defence Forces, the Department has written to that association seeking its views on aspects of induction as it relates to commissioning from the ranks.
As the discussions on induction are confidential to the parties involved, it would not be appropriate to comment in detail on the matter. However, I can confirm my intention to hold competitions for commissioning of enlisted personnel as soon as agreement on the basis of such a scheme is agreed with and between the associations.
208 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 389 of 28 October 2004 the position regarding an application for funding to upgrade a water supply (details supplied) in County Roscommon. [8411/05]
The south Roscommon regional and Arigna regional water supply schemes, together with a number of other schemes, are being advanced as a grouped project which has been included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006 to commence construction this year.
Roscommon County Council's design review report together with its water services pricing policy and implementation strategy reports for the overall project are under examination in my Department. The issues involved will be dealt with as quickly as possible.
209 Mr. Ring asked the Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 403 of 1 March 2005, pertaining to the number of vacant houses which are in the possession of each local authority in County Mayo, the location of these houses; the reason the houses are not being allocated; the reason the parliamentary question was not answered; and if he will answer the original question in full. [8422/05]
The re-letting of vacant local authority houses is a matter for individual local authorities and my Department has no function in the matter. Information on the location of individual local authority vacant houses in the Mayo local authority areas is not available in my Department.
According to the revised housing action plan for the period 2004 to 2008 recently received in my Department from Mayo County Council, there are 30 vacant local authority houses in the county council area, 23 in the Ballina Town Council area, two in the Castlebar Town Council area and three in the Westport Town Council area.
210 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Dublin City Council has submitted the name of a company (details supplied) as its preferred bidder for the construction and operation of an incinerator at Poolbeg; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8514/05]
The management of the procurement of the proposed waste to energy project concerned is a matter for Dublin City Council acting on behalf of the Dublin local authorities. I have had no submission from the authority in regard to a preferred bidder.
