Written Answers.

Education Welfare Service.

Gerard Murphy

Question:

59 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of education welfare officers currently employed by the NEWB; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12933/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Education (Welfare) Act 2000 established the National Educational Welfare Board as the single national body with responsibility for school attendance. The Act provides a comprehensive framework promoting regular school attendance and tackling the problems of absenteeism and early school leaving. The general functions of the board are to ensure that each child attends a recognised school or otherwise receives a certain minimum education.

The priority I attach to supporting the NEWB in delivering on this goal is evident from the fact that the budget which has been allocated to the NEWB for 2005 is up by 20% on the 2004 allocation, to nearly €8 million. To discharge its responsibilities, the board is developing a nationwide service that is accessible to schools, parents-guardians and others concerned with the welfare of young people. For this purpose, educational welfare officers, EWOs, are being appointed and deployed throughout the country to provide a welfare focused service to support regular school attendance and discharge the board's functions locally.

The board issued an information leaflet to 330,000 families and 4,000 schools in March 2004. The leaflet targeted parents and guardians of children aged between six and 16 years of age and young people aged 16 and 17 years who have left school early to start work. It outlined the role parents and guardians play in ensuring that their children do not miss out on education and training and also gave information about the National Educational Welfare Board. In addition, the board launched a new lo-call telephone number to inform parents and guardians about their legal role and responsibilities under the Education (Welfare) Act 2000.

The service is developing on a continuing basis and the board received sanction in late 2004 from my Department to recruit an additional ten educational welfare officers. This brings its total authorised staffing complement to 94, comprising 16 headquarters and support staff, five regional managers, 11 senior educational welfare officers and 62 educational welfare officers. These additional posts will ensure that every county will have an educational welfare service.

To date, the board has focused the resources available to it on providing a service to the most disadvantaged areas and most at risk groups. Five regional teams have now been established with bases in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford and staff have been deployed in areas of greatest disadvantage and in areas designated under the Government's RAPID programme. A total of 13 towns with significant school going populations, 12 of which are designated under the Government's RAPID programme, also now have an educational welfare officer allocated to them.

Guidelines were issued by the NEWB to all primary and second level schools in January of this year on reporting student absences. The guidelines provide step-by-step advice on how and when school attendance returns should be made and on how a new website established by the NEWB can be used by schools to comply with their legal obligations to report student absences to the board.

I will keep the issue of the NEWB's staffing under review in the light of the roll out of services and any further proposals that the board may put to me on clearly identified priority needs.

Third Level Education.

Liam Twomey

Question:

60 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Education and Science the failure rates for first year science courses at universities and institutes of technology; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12939/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Information on national failure rates in specific programmes is not available. However, national research conducted by the HEA into the issue of student non-completion found that science had a higher rate of non-completion than the average across the university sector, at 22.2% against 16.7% otherwise. This, however, refers to the number who do not complete the full degree rather than the failure rate in any individual year of course. The report also found that overall Ireland's completion rate in degree level programmes compared favourably against the OECD average of 70%.

I am aware of recent media reports of a high failure rate in science, for example, the finding that in UCD some 28% of students either failed their first year or dropped out of the course. However, it is important to note that students may repeat examinations or all of first year, or choose to follow an alternative subject in higher education. The UCD study found that more than 95% of those who leave during the period of study re-enter the college or another third level institution or intend to do so in the near future, suggesting that only a small percentage of students are leaving third level education entirely. It is also instructive to note that a HEA study on completion rates found that of the total completion rate of 83%, some 15% completed late, which would include some individuals who would have repeated a year of a course.

Nevertheless, I am particularly concerned that this issue be addressed in view of the importance of science for Ireland's continued economic and national development. A number of actions are under way to enhance completion levels in science and all subjects in higher education. Since 2000, €3.8 million in funding has been made available for the HEA's targeted initiatives fund, which funds projects which aim to consider and develop approaches to non-completion and supports activities aimed at examining and improving student retention and participation in HEA funded institutions.

Institutes of technology have also introduced specific measures aimed at improving retention rates and have provided learning supports programmes with particular emphasis on strengthening skills in the areas of maths and science. They have also established retention projects, personal tutor and mentoring systems, training programmes for staff, orientation programmes to facilitate the transition to third level, information handbooks and guides to best practice, additional tutorials and school liaison and improved pre-entry information.

A separate scheme for student retention in the area of ICT was also introduced by the HEA in 2002, as part of the drive to enhance skills output in the ICT area. Some €3 million has been allocated since 2003, mainly focused on the areas of tutorials and mentoring, drop-in learning centres, student advisers and problem based learning.

The effectiveness of these schemes will be kept under review to ensure that maximum encouragment is given to all those who wish to study in the areas of science and technology.

Teacher Training.

Billy Timmins

Question:

61 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science if the curriculum in primary education contains a module on the way in which dyslexia is recognised and the way in which to deal with it; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13129/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I understand the Deputy is referring to teacher training programmes in the colleges of education. The existing pre-service teacher training programmes provided by the colleges of education include specific elements aimed at enabling all primary teachers to recognise and deal appropriately with the particular needs of all children who have learning disabilities, including those associated with dyslexia.

To further enhance the relevant preparation teachers will have received at pre-service level in the colleges, my Department, in co-operation with colleges of education and universities, also provides a nationwide programme, on an annual basis, of additional specialist training at postgraduate level for learning support teachers and resources teachers. Learning support teachers are available to all primary schools as additional support for children with learning difficulties, including dyslexia. Resource teachers are available to primary schools, as required, as an additional support for children with special educational needs, including children with dyslexia.

In addition, my Department is currently engaged in a further programme of professional development for all teachers in primary schools, with particular emphasis on whole school and classroom based strategies for responding effectively to the learning needs of children with reading difficulties, including those associated with dyslexia. This work is being undertaken in conjunction with the learning support guidelines which have been made available to all schools by my Department.

This specialist training is supported and directly funded by the teacher education section of my Department, which is responsible for the education, training and continuing professional development of teachers across the continuum from initial pre-entry education to inservice. The course syllabi include training in the diagnosis and identification of reading difficulties, including the appropriate techniques for remediation. In particular, there is a focus on the problem of specific learning disabilities, including dyslexia, in diagnosis and pedagogy.

Through the special education support service, which was established in September 2003, my Department also supports many other relevant short-term intensive courses, including some on-line courses, for primary teachers. In its current programme of support and professional development, the special education support service includes dyslexia as an area of priority with other similar courses which are provided through the network of education centres, teachers' organisations and through the programme of summer courses for primary teachers.

Special Educational Needs.

Martin Ferris

Question:

62 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science the appeal mechanism for parents who wish to transfer their dyslexic child to a special school in a case in which family psychologists rate the pupil at eight and school psychologists rate the same pupil at a scale of 22, closing the child’s access to the school, in view of the widespread confusion surrounding new structures. [13122/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Based on the information provided by the Deputy, it is not possible to respond specifically on the case in question. However, my officials will arrange to have the matter examined further if the Deputy or the pupil's family arranges to forward the specific details of the case, including the relevant professional reports, to my Department's special education section.

Children with dyslexia have, up to now, generally been catered for on an integrated basis in ordinary primary schools where they can be supported by the learning support teacher service or the resource teacher service. At present, there are approximately 2,600 resource teachers and 1,531 learning support teachers in the primary system. The Department also provides funding to schools for the purchase of specialised equipment such as computers to assist children with special needs with their education, including children with dyslexia, where recommended by relevant professionals. Schools may apply, through the local SENO, for this support.

Where the condition of a pupil with dyslexia is of a more serious nature, provision can be made in one of the four special schools or 23 special classes attached to ordinary primary schools and dedicated to the needs of children with dyslexia. All special schools and special classes for such children operate at a reduced pupil teacher ratio of 9:1.

My officials will arrange to have the matter examined further if the Deputy or the pupil's family arranges to forward the specific details on the case to my Department's special education section.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

63 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress being made on the implementation of the recommendations of the task force on autism; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12971/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The recommendations of the task force on autism provide an invaluable basis for development of educational services and supports for persons with autism. In responding to the recommendations, my Department has given priority to implementing the core legislative and structural measures required to underpin service development and delivery.

The Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 has been enacted, while on the structural front, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, has been established on a statutory basis. These developments represent significant progress and I am confident they will have a positive impact on services for children with special educational needs, including those with autism.

My Department has already acted on many of the recommendations of the task force and is continuing to develop the network of special educational provision for children with autism. The extent of improvement in services for children with autism in recent years can be measured from the fact that, since 1998, when autism was first recognised as a distinct special educational need, a number of dedicated facilities have been developed. A total of 141 special classes for children with autism attached to special schools and mainstream schools have been created; 13 pre-school classes for children with autism have been established; eight autism facilities, some of which are providing an applied behavioural analysis model of response to children with autism, are being funded and five special classes for children with Aspergers syndrome have been created.

The typical pupil teacher ratio for pupils with autism in special schools and classes is 6:1, with two special needs assistants in each class. The Department also sanctions home tuition grants for children with autism for whom a home based applied behavioural analysis programme is considered appropriate or in cases where such children are awaiting an appropriate school placement.

The task force on autism made a number of recommendations on teacher professional development and significant progress has been made in this area also. The special education support service was established in 2003 to manage, co-ordinate and develop a range of supports in response to identified training needs. The service has established teams of trainers to deliver training in the four specific areas of autism, challenging behaviour, dyslexia and inclusion at post-primary level. This training is delivered locally across the State through the education centre network. In addition, the service provides immediate responses to requests from schools for support in a variety of autism related areas. The service also funds the provision of on-line training courses, including a course on autism, during the summer months of July and August and during the autumn and spring terms.

My Department also now provides 140 places per annum on a postgraduate diploma programme in special educational needs and 20 places per annum on a postgraduate programme in autism. It has also funded the development of an applied behaviour analysis training programme in Trinity College, Dublin, and funded the participation of 12 teachers on the course in 2003-04. The successful participants are now available to the Department, as classroom teachers and as a further training resource.

I am satisfied the steps taken in recent years and those in hand represent significant progress in the development of services for children with autism. However, I recognise that further progress is required and my Department, in consultation with parents and existing service providers, will seek to ensure the recent rate of development is maintained.

Literacy Levels.

Damien English

Question:

64 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the percentage of young persons leaving secondary school with literacy difficulties; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12975/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

There is no facility within the education system to measure the percentage of young people leaving post-primary schools with literacy difficulties. However, the results of PISA, the programme of international student assessment, provide detailed information on the standards of reading literacy among Irish 15 year olds.

In the second cycle of PISA, which was carried out in 2003, Ireland ranked 6th in reading out of the 29 OECD countries for which results were analysed. Just three countries — Finland, Korea and Canada — had significantly higher scores than Ireland. The percentage of Irish students in the 2003 survey whose performance in reading was at or below level 1, the lowest level of proficiency, was 11%. The corresponding OECD average was 19.1%. The results of the first cycle of PISA, which took place in 2000, displayed similar differences in favour of Ireland. These outcomes provide strong evidence that, with regard to reading, there are proportionately fewer low achieving students in Ireland compared to the OECD.

Closer examination of the category of low achievement referred to reveals that 2.7% of Irish students performed below level 1 compared with the OECD average of 6.7%. This indicates that the proportion of students with serious reading difficulties in Ireland is less than half that of the OECD average. The results of PISA 2000 provide similar evidence with regard to the prevalence of reading difficulties of this nature among Irish 15 year olds.

Notwithstanding that, young people with poor levels of literacy are a source of concern for my Department. To address their needs, learning support teacher services are available to all second level schools. Currently, there are 528 whole time teacher equivalent posts for learning support. In addition, a total of 1388 whole time teacher posts are provided at second level to cater for students with special educational needs. All of these teachers prioritise the development of literacy skills.

There are also a number of initiatives at post-primary level that have students with literacy difficulties as their target group. The junior certificate school programme focuses specifically on developing literacy skills and schools participating in the school completion programme are given considerable financial resources to provide targeted students with opportunities to improve their literacy skills in accordance with their identified needs. The reduction of the numbers of students with literacy difficulties continues to be a key priority for my Department

Special Educational Needs.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

65 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to further special needs requirements at both primary and second level schools throughout the country; if she intends to make provision for the appointment of the necessary teaching staff to ensure the availability of maximum hours for children with special needs requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12990/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Every effort is made to ensure that children with special educational needs receive an education appropriate to their needs and, in this regard, in recent years significant additional resources have been made available to schools to enable them to provide for children with such needs.

The following dedicated resources are now deployed to support children with special educational needs in the primary system: more than 2,600 resource teachers — up from 104 in 1998; more than 1,500 learning support teachers; more than 1,000 teachers in special schools; more than 600 teachers in special classes; nearly 6,000 special needs assistants — up from 300 in 1998; more than €30 million on school transport for special needs pupils; more than €3 million towards specialised equipment and materials — up from €0.8 million in 1998.

In addition, the level of resources being made available to support students with special educational needs in the second level system has also grown significantly in recent years. In the current school year, my Department has allocated approximately 1,388 whole time equivalent teachers and 630 special needs assistants to second level schools and VECs to cater for pupils with special educational needs.

In addition to the measures I have outlined, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, has been established as an independent statutory body with responsibilities as set out in the National Council for Special Education (Establishment) Order, 2003. The establishment of the NCSE is a further major step in ensuring that the requirements of children with special educational needs are identified and the necessary resources put in place in a timely and effective manner.

There are 71 special education needs organisers, SENOs, employed by the council since September 2004. These have been deployed on a nationwide basis, with at least one SENO being deployed in each county. Each SENO is responsible for the primary and second level schools in their area and they have made contact with each of their schools and informed them of their role.

In addition to processing requests for resources, the council will co-ordinate the provision of education and related support services with health boards, schools and other relevant bodies. Placing organisers in the locality will enable them to work with the parents and the schools, particularly to co-ordinate the services on a local level. That will ensure that when a child has been identified as having a special need, the services can be put in place immediately.

The issue of providing adequate resources to meet the needs of children with special educational needs will continue to be a priority for me. In this regard, my Department is continuing to take steps to develop the network of special educational provision for children with special needs. The steps taken in recent years and those currently in hand represent significant progress in the development of those services.

Psychological Service.

Gerard Murphy

Question:

66 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of psychologists employed by the NEPS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12959/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, has delegated authority to develop and provide an educational psychological service to all students in primary and post-primary schools and in certain other centres supported by my Department. A leaflet explaining the NEPS model of service, Working Together to Make a Difference for Children, was issued to all schools in October 2002.

In addition to providing assessments for individual children, NEPS is pursuing a policy of enhancing the skills of teachers in the areas of group and individual testing, programme development and behavioural management. This means that many children's needs can be speedily met without the necessity for individual psychological assessment, although the NEPS psychologists are available as consultants to teachers and parents, thus helping the children in an indirect way. This reduces the waiting times for individual assessment.

The NEPS psychologists address the need for psychological assessments in the schools they serve and provide advice on the identification and screening of children who might need to be assessed. Each psychologist is responsible for a number of named schools and visits each on a regular basis. The school authorities provide names of children who are giving cause for concern and discuss the relative urgency of each case during the psychologist's visits. This allows the psychologists to give early attention to urgent cases and such children will be seen or referred on in a matter of weeks, if not days. Where cases are less urgent, the psychologist will, as a preliminary measure, act as a consultant to teachers and parents, offer advice about educational and behavioural plans and monitor progress.

The complement of psychologists in NEPS has increased from 43 psychologists — 30 in permanent full-time posts and 13 on secondment — on the date of establishment in September 1999 to 128 in January 2005, plus two psychologists on career break. Recruitment of psychologists to NEPS has, until recently, been undertaken by the Civil Service and Local Government Commissioners. The last Civil Service Commission panel of 69 psychologists has been exhausted and the recently established Public Appointments Service is now making arrangements to set up a new panel.

With regard to achieving a better regional spread of NEPS psychologists, under the next recruitment competition for NEPS psychologists, regional panels rather than one national panel will be established. This will allow my Department to give greater priority in filling vacancies to areas with the greatest need.

It should be noted that all schools that do not currently have NEPS psychologists assigned to them may avail of the scheme for commissioning psychological assessments, whereby the school can have an assessment carried out by a member of the panel of private psychologists approved by NEPS, and NEPS will pay the psychologist the fees for this assessment directly. Details of this process, and the conditions that apply to the scheme, appear on my Department's website. NEPS also provides assistance to all schools that suffer from critical incidents, regardless of whether they have a NEPS psychologist assigned to them.

School Staffing.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

67 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the recent survey undertaken by the ASTI, which showed that work related stress accounted for more than one in three teacher absences from school; the steps she intends to take to reduce stress levels among teachers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13020/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Opportunities for professional development and the availability of support on a personal level are important in every profession in enabling staff to work to the best of their abilities and to deal with stress. The priority I attach to providing quality professional development for teachers is evident from the fact that this year's inservice budget is up by almost 19% on the 2004 allocation to roughly €31 million.

Enhanced opportunities for professional development will help teachers to stay at the top of their profession. However, I recognise that just like employees in every other line of work, there will be times during a teacher's career when they might need support on a personal, rather than on a professional level. As I told the ASTI annual conference last month, there is a need to develop an occupational health strategy as a supportive resource for teachers. The aim of such a strategy will be to promote the health of teachers in their workplace, with a focus primarily on prevention rather than cure. In this context I have asked my officials to look at possible models for the development of both an occupational health service and an employee assistance service. Exploratory talks have already commenced with the teacher unions and management groups on the possibilities involved. I will maintain a strong interest in developments.

With regard to creating a positive school environment in our schools in which students and staff can work, I established a task force to review the issue of student behaviour. The task force will produce an interim report shortly with its final report expected before the end of this year.

Schools Building Projects.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

68 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the timescale for the allocation of funding to commence construction of an extension of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 20; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13118/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I have included the building project for the school in question in my recently announced list of school projects to be progressed through architectural planning in 2005. My Department will be in contact with the school shortly to progress the design process. A decision on which school building projects will advance to tender and construction as part of the 2006 schools building and modernisation programme will be taken later in the year.

I have now announced the first phases of the 2005 schools building and modernisation programme which provided details of: 122 major school building projects country wide, including 89 primary school projects, which will prepare tenders and move to construction during the next 12 to 15 months; an additional 171 in the number of primary schools that will be invited to deliver their building projects on the basis of devolved funding; 43 schools, of which 32 are primary schools, that will be authorised to commence architectural planning; 590 schools approved for funding under the 2005 summer works scheme, of which over 360 are primary schools; 124 schools, of which 73 are primary schools, whose projects will further progress through the design process.

In addition, approximately €18 million in respect of all primary schools will be issued under the devolved grant to enable schools to carry out minor works. Each primary school gets a standard rate of €3,809 together with a per pupil rate of €12.70.

I plan to make a further announcement in the coming period regarding the 2005 schools building and modernisation programme that will include details of projects identified as suitable for construction under public private partnerships.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

69 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children at primary level in classes of more than 35; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12947/05]

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

79 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children at primary level in classes of more than 25; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12946/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

93 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children at primary level in classes of more than 20; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12945/05]

John Deasy

Question:

133 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary school children in classes of more than 30; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12936/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 69, 79, 93 and 133 together.

The information requested is as follows and refers to ordinary classes only for the 2003-04 school year: more than 20 — 346,066; more than 25 — 233,262; more than 30 — 73,069; more than 35 — 4,499. 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.

Significant improvements have been made in this area in recent years. The average class size at primary level is now 23.9, down from 26.6 in 1996-97. The number of children being taught in classes of 30 plus nationally has almost halved since 1997. The pupil teacher ratio, which includes all the teachers in the school including resource teachers, has fallen from 22.2 to one in the 1996-97 school year to 17.4 to one in 2003-04. More than 4,000 additional teachers have been employed in our primary schools since 1997. These additional teaching posts have been used to reduce class sizes, to tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for children with special needs.

Significantly smaller class sizes have been introduced in disadvantaged schools involved in the Giving Children an Even Break and Breaking the Cycle programme, with approximately 47,700 pupils in 243 participating schools availing of reduced class sizes of either 15 or 20 pupils per class.

In line with Government policy, my Department will continue to provide further reductions in the pupil teacher ratio. With regard to class sizes, the commitment in the programme for Government is to reduce class sizes for the under nine year olds. The Government is committed to doing this, with priority being given in the first instance to pupils in disadvantaged areas.

Higher Education Grants.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

70 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science the position of discussions with the Department of Social and Family Affairs and the Revenue Commissioners regarding the introduction of a new higher education grants scheme; the steps being taken to bring these discussions to a conclusion; when she expects that the new system will be in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13023/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department funds three means tested maintenance grant schemes for third level students. The higher education grants scheme operates on a statutory basis, while the vocational education committees' scholarship scheme and the third level maintenance grants scheme for trainees operate on an administrative basis. The statutory framework for maintenance grants under the higher education grants scheme is set out in the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Acts 1968 to 1992.

The administration of student support schemes is complex and resource intensive involving the processing and assessment of applications resulting in the approval of payments to over 56,000 students annually. Expenditure in 2004 was almost €203 million.

In accordance with the commitment in the An Agreed Programme for Government, I propose to introduce a single unified scheme of maintenance grants for students in higher education for the academic year 2006-07. In this context, I intend to put in place as early as possible a more coherent administration system which will facilitate consistency of application and improved client accessibility. This is necessary if we are to ensure public confidence in the awards system and ensure the timely delivery of grants to those who need them most.

My Department has been engaged in extensive consultations with the key stakeholders and with other relevant Departments to map the most logical and effective arrangements for the future structure and administration of the student support schemes. Discussions with the Department of Social and Family Affairs and the Revenue Commissioners relate to their possible contribution to the future shape and administration of the student support schemes.

I expect these discussions will be concluded in the near future. I will then be in a position to determine the best strategy to give effect to the programme for Government commitment to the payment of the maintenance grants through a unified and flexible payment scheme. Whatever new arrangements are eventually decided upon will be provided for in new statutory arrangements through a new student support Bill. This Bill, which will provide statutory underpinning for the schemes, will have as a key objective the promotion of equality of access. I also envisage that the Bill will provide for an independent appeals system.

The timescale for the publication of this Bill is contingent on the range of issues which are the subject of the consultations already mentioned.

School Staffing.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

71 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school days taken by unqualified teachers in the latest year for which figures are available; if her attention has been drawn to the difficulties experienced by school principals in obtaining fully qualified substitute teachers; if she has proposals to address this problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13017/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The figures requested by the Deputy are not readily available in my Department. I am aware, however, that the primary sector has experienced a shortage of trained teachers in recent years mainly as a result of the creation of a large number of additional posts — more than 4,000 since 1997 — in our primary schools. The difficulties experienced were aggravated by the number of teachers availing of career breaks and job sharing schemes. With regard to the difficulty of getting trained teachers to work as short-term substitutes, this would be more pronounced in rural areas.

My Department introduced a range of measures to address the shortage of qualified teachers and I am pleased the number of unqualified teachers in our schools has significantly reduced. It is important to acknowledge that the colleges of education have done much to increase the output of primary teachers to meet the needs of schools arising from significant additional teacher allocations in recent years.

Since 1999, more than 1,000 students have been admitted annually to the bachelor of education programme in the colleges of education. Since the 1995-96 academic year, an 18 month postgraduate course has been provided in the colleges of education. The total intake to the colleges of education in the current academic year is circa 1,280 students. This compares with an intake of 500 in 1996-97.

There are currently some 3,500 students enrolled and pursuing various stages of primary teacher training programmes in the colleges of education. In addition, graduates of the new primary teacher training course, which is being accredited by HETAC and delivered by Hibernia College, an on-line third level educational company, will be recognised for the purposes of primary teaching.

I am committed to ensuring that the shortage of qualified teachers will be eliminated as speedily as possible and, in this context, my Department will continue to consider initiatives and keep developments under review.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

72 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of persons who have made compensation applications to the Residential Institutions Redress Board at the latest date for which figures are available; the way in which the number of applications compares with the original estimate made by her Department; the latest estimate of the number of likely applications; the total amount paid out in awards to date; the estimated likely total liability of the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13010/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Residential Institutions Redress Board is an independent body established under statute in December 2002 to provide financial redress to persons who, as children, were abused while resident in industrial schools, reformatories or other institutions that were subject to State regulation or inspection. To date, the board has received 5,909 applications and has made awards in just over 3,000 of these cases at a total cost of approximately €229 million.

The board has prepared its second annual report which covers the period 1 January 2004 to 31 December 2004. This report was laid before each of the Houses of the Oireachtas on 13 April 2005 and will shortly be available on the board's website at www.rirb.ie. In its 2004 report, the board states that, based on the pattern of receipt of applications to date, it anticipates receiving between 7,500 and 8,000 applications by the final date for receipt of applications on 15 December 2005, although it emphasises that this is a tentative estimate.

The redress scheme has now been in operation for almost two and a half years and the board will continue to accept applications until December 2005. At that stage, it will be possible to determine the total number of applications under the scheme but, as it will take the board some considerable time to deal with all applications, the final cost of the scheme may not be known until some time in 2007. Based on the total number of applications the redress board expects to receive up to the end of this year, and allowing for legal and administration costs, the estimated total cost of the scheme will be somewhere in the region of €680 million and €730 million.

The Department's estimate prior to the establishment of the redress board was that the amount of compensation would be €508 million, not including legal and administration costs. Including legal and administration costs the cost of awards under this estimate would be €610 million. The final cost of the redress scheme must be viewed in the context of the Government's concern to provide reasonable compensation towards the hurt and suffering experienced by victims of abuse and the very substantial costs that would have been incurred in any event if no such scheme had been established and if cases had been processed in the normal manner through the courts.

Special Educational Needs.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

73 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science the measures which will be put in place to ensure that the National Council for Special Education can handle the workload involving deaf education; her views on whether it would be better to reconstitute the advisory committee for the deaf and hard of hearing for a further fixed period with a majority and minority report arrangement in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13120/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The advisory committee for the deaf and hard of hearing was established in December 2001. The committee held 38 meetings over a three year period as well as a number of other meetings at subcommittee stage.

From an early stage in the committee's deliberations it became apparent that there were entrenched, divergent views among representatives of deaf and hearing persons and their families on approaches to the teaching of the deaf and hard of hearing and that there was little willingness to reach consensus. One group who come from an oralist tradition favours a focus on teaching deaf and hard of hearing children to speak and to understand spoken language. The emphasis in the oralist approach is on the use of residual hearing and has been assisted by advances in audiology and technology. Another group strongly advocates sign language as the appropriate and exclusive means of communication. The opposing viewpoints of these groups made it difficult for the committee to reach decisions. In some cases, decisions arrived at on subcommittee stage were challenged at plenary level by members who were involved in the decisions of the subcommittee.

While various chapters of the committee's report were drafted, including chapters on early intervention, primary education, post-primary education, visiting teacher service and communication issues, no consensus was reached on any of these due to the divergent views of members of the committee. To progress matters, and as two previous deadlines which had been set for the finalisation had not been met, my predecessor, Deputy Noel Dempsey, met the committee in June 2004. At that meeting, Deputy Dempsey stressed that its report should be completed by October 2004. The report did not materialise.

In the circumstances and following consultations between my officials and the chairperson of the committee, I formed the view that there was no prospect of the advisory committee reaching an agreed position in the foreseeable future. Given this position, I recently wrote to the chairperson of the committee and informed her of my decision to disband it. I have no plans to change that decision. In disbanding the committee, however, I requested that all of the material produced by it to date be sent to my Department and this has been done. I now intend to discuss the important issue of deaf education with the National Council for Special Education with a view to carrying out research initially and devising policy on issues relating to deaf and hard of hearing pupils.

I am disappointed that it was not possible for the committee to complete its work but the reality was that, more than three years after its establishment, there was no prospect of it doing so. Rather than continue down the cul de sac that the committee's work had become, I have decided that a different approach is required and this approach includes involving the National Council for Special Education which has a remit to advise my Department on policy matters.

I am confident the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, which has a research function and part of whose remit is to advise my Department on policy matters, will be in a position, after undertaking appropriate research and analysis of this matter, to advise my Department on policy and other issues relating to the education of deaf and hard of hearing pupils.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Seamus Healy

Question:

74 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Education and Science the timescale and the way in which she proposes to respond to the disturbing facts uncovered in the survey recently carried out by the Irish National Teachers Organisation which showed that there are 55 primary classes in south Tipperary of 30 or more and that 25% of all south Tipperary primary pupils are in classes of more than 30; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12746/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

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.

The Deputy should note that significant improvements have been made in this area in recent years. The average class size at primary level is now 23.9, down from 26.5 in 1996. The pupil teacher ratio, which includes all the teachers in the school including resource teachers, has fallen from 22.2 to one in the 1996-97 school year to 17.4 to one in 2003-04. More than 4,000 additional teachers have been employed in our primary schools since 1997. These additional teaching posts have been used to reduce class sizes, to tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for children with special needs.

Significantly smaller class sizes have been introduced in disadvantaged schools involved in the Giving Children an Even Break and Breaking the Cycle programmes, with approximately 47,700 pupils in 243 participating schools availing of reduced class sizes of either 15 or 20 pupils per class.

Other improvements in school staffing in recent years include the following: a reduction in the appointment and retention figure for the first mainstream class teacher to 12 pupils; the appointment of administrative principals to ordinary schools where there are nine or more teachers, including ex quota posts; a reduction in the enrolment figures required for the appointment of administrative principals to ordinary schools and Gaelscoileanna; the allocation of teaching posts to schools where 14 or more pupils with significant English language deficits are identified.

With regard to the average class size in south Tipperary, the latest data available in my Department show that in the 2003-04 school year the average class size in primary schools in Tipperary South was 23. Only 14% of pupils in south Tipperary were being taught in classes of more than 30, down from 40% of all pupils in the area in 1996-97. South Tipperary had one of the smallest proportions of primary pupils being taught in classes of more than 30 in the country.

This improvement is a reflection of the significant increases in staffing that have been provided to our primary schools by this Government. The number of children being taught in classes of more than 30 nationally has almost halved since 1997. In line with Government policy, my Department will continue to provide further reductions in the pupil teacher ratio in our schools. Priority will be given to pupils with special needs and to those from disadvantaged areas.

School Discipline.

Paul McGrath

Question:

75 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the way in which she intends to tackle growing discipline problems in schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12937/05]

Liz McManus

Question:

119 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the call from the TUI, arising from concerns regarding declining school discipline, for the introduction of new legislative measures to outline the rights and responsibilities of both pupils and teachers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13012/05]

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

137 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science when she expects to receive the report of the task force on student behaviour in secondary schools; if her attention has been drawn to serious concern expressed at recent teacher union conferences regarding the increasing problems of school discipline; if she plans interim measures to deal with this problem, pending the receipt of the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13011/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 75, 119 and 137 together.

I recently established a task force to consider and report on the issue of student behaviour in second level schools. The task force is chaired by Dr. Maeve Martin of the National University of Ireland, Maynooth. I want the work of this task force to provide a solid foundation for developing policies and best practice in our schools into the future. The task force will link closely to a wide range of interests across our education system on this important issue.

A consultative group is part of the process, comprising all the partners in education and allowing for their input to the deliberations of the task force. In addition, I have asked that the task force constitute fora of teachers, parents and students with a view to testing emerging ideas and proposals. The task force invited, by public advertisement, submissions from interested individuals and groups.

There have been eight meetings of the task force to date and other meetings are planned. The partners in education were invited to make oral submissions at a number of the task force meetings. Two consultative fora have been held, in Cork on 14 March and Galway on 21 March. A further two consultative fora have been organised for the coming weeks in Dundalk and Clondalkin. The chairperson and three of the task force members have attended the fora. The format is to meet separate groups of teachers, parents and students, with a member of the task force acting as rapporteur for each group. This is followed by a plenary session which is chaired by Dr. Martin.

To date more than 130 submissions have been received. The deadline for receipt of submissions, 31 March 2005, has passed. However, submissions continue to arrive and the task force is still accepting them. I have asked the task force to let me have an interim report by June 2005 and complete its work by the end of 2005.

Lisbon Agenda.

Richard Bruton

Question:

76 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps being taken by her Department to ensure that the targets set under the Lisbon strategy are achieved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12954/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The strategic goal set at the Lisbon European Council in March 2000 is to make the European Union the most competitive and dynamic knowledge based economy in the world, capable of sustainable economic growth with more and better jobs and greater social cohesion, by 2010. Education and training have a central role in achieving the Lisbon goal.

The Lisbon strategy is at the core of policy-making in my Department. The statement of strategy for my Department is informed by, and explicitly acknowledges, the importance of the Lisbon strategy. My Department has taken a range of policy initiatives and measures in recent years which contribute to developing the knowledge society and achieving the Lisbon goal.

Since the time constraint does not permit me to give a comprehensive list of all the steps taken, I will focus on a number of key areas. Excellent progress has been made in the area of recognition of qualifications. The establishment of the national qualifications framework represents a significant new departure in Irish education with the needs of the learner taking priority. The framework provides a unique opportunity to develop the awards system for education and training in an innovative and creative way, ensuring that Ireland is at the forefront of international developments in this area.

The expert group on future skills needs studies the supply and demand for skills in individual business/industrial sectors and occupations. There has been concrete progress in implementing the expert group's reports: for example, there have been substantial increases in third level and training course places to address supply shortages in the ICT and life sciences sectors in particular. Social cohesion is a significant dimension of the Lisbon strategy. My Department has put in place a range of measures aimed at promoting social inclusion ensuring that all of our young people leave the education system with a high quality education and related qualifications to support their full participation in society. The national anti-poverty strategy is coherent with the achievement of the Lisbon goal.

The lifelong learning dimension of the Lisbon strategy has been advanced by a range of initiatives such as the adult guidance initiative and programmes to promote adult literacy, as well as increased flexibility of education provision which addresses access barriers. Significant progress has also been made in the curriculum at both first and second level in improving ICT access and in science and technology. Over €130 million has been invested in ICT in primary and secondary schools since 2000.

At third level, the Government has also made a strategic decision to invest heavily in research and development as a key means of assuring future economic and social development. Under the National Development Plan 2000-2006, major public investment is being made in research and development. This investment is creating new centres and research programmes through the higher education sector, providing valuable new labour market skills through the development of researchers and providing opportunities for academic-industry research collaborations.

Another important element in achieving the Lisbon goals is the Europass initiative. Europass is a new Europe wide instrument for better recognition of qualifications and skills in the enlarged Europe. It provides for a single framework for the transparency of qualifications and competences. The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland is working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that Irish people can avail of Europass at the earliest opportunity.

In the context of the Lisbon strategy, the European Commission has been monitoring progress on a number of benchmarks for education and training. Ireland's comparative performance in a number of areas is particularly good: for example, we are among the best performing countries in the number of mathematics, science and technology graduates and in the reading ability of pupils at age 15 years.

Third Level Education.

Simon Coveney

Question:

77 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made in implementing the recommendations of the OECD review of third level education here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12960/05]

Seán Ryan

Question:

95 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps she intends to take arising from the decision of the Government to endorse the recent OECD report on third level education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13025/05]

John Gormley

Question:

99 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Education and Science the aspects of the OECD report into higher education which the Government will implement in the coming 12 months. [13117/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 77, 95 and 99 together.

Following consideration and approval by my Government colleagues of the broad thrust of the recommendations contained in the OECD review of higher education, I was delighted to announce yesterday the creation of a strategic innovation fund to facilitate the process of change in the sector and also the bringing forward of legislation to provide for the transfer of the institutes of technology to the Higher Education Authority. These initiatives are evidence of my and the Government's commitment to providing a comprehensive response to the OECD report and ensuring that our higher education system is capable of meeting the challenges ahead. They form part of a detailed response to the report I gave yesterday in which I set out some of the main policy parameters which should now guide the process of change and development that lies ahead.

The OECD report emphasises the need to modernise structures within higher education institutions so they may better deliver on their broad educational mission. This need is already being recognised in the programmes of structural reform which are under way in a number of institutions. The Government recognises the reform efforts required and under way. It has agreed that they should be promoted and supported through accelerated prime funding.

The strategic innovation fund will enable higher education institutions to incentivise and reward internal restructuring and rationalisation efforts, provide for improved performance management systems, meet staff training and support requirements associated with the reform of structures and the implementation of new processes and implement improved management information systems. The fund will also facilitate institutions in introducing teaching and learning reforms, supporting quality improvement initiatives and promoting access, transfer and progression.

A key priority will be the incentivisation of stronger inter-institutional collaboration in the development and delivery of programmes. Funding will be competitively awarded on the basis of an independent external evaluation of the quality of proposals with a requirement for excellence. The fund will be created on a multi-annual basis and I will now ask the HEA to initiate the process of drawing up detailed criteria and launching a competitive process for the approval of funding awards, with a view to the draw down of awards commencing in 2006.

The strategic innovation fund is one part of a process of moving towards a more targeted approach to the overall funding of higher education. The HEA is already working towards the phasing in of a revised funding model which will act as an incentive to institutions to achieve progress on a range of strategic priorities. The challenges to be faced in increasing and diversifying the sources of funding available to higher education, as recommended by the OECD, are also significant and I have stated my intention to work with the sector to ensure that the conditions for a greater diversification of funding are facilitated.

A number of the key recommendations made by the OECD will require legislative change. It is my intention to develop comprehensive new legislation for the sector to give effect to these. The establishment of a new single oversight body to succeed the current Higher Education Authority will be addressed. So too will the need for change in the composition of governing bodies at institutional level. There is a need to place the two research councils, the Irish Research Council for the Humanities and Social Sciences and the Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering and Technology, on an appropriate statutory footing.

In the meantime, I intend to move ahead with the designation of the institutes of technology under the existing Higher Education Authority. This is a key step in developing a coherent management and strategic framework for the sector and in promoting inter-institutional collaboration. Interim amending legislation will now be introduced to give effect to the designation. The aim is for this to be achieved by the end of October of this year, with the designation to take effect from that time. The membership of the authority itself will also be re-configured at that time to ensure that it reflects an appropriate balance of interests.

An important role of the current HEA and its successor body will be to achieve a broad collective fit between the institutional strategies of individual higher education providers and national strategic objectives. An essential starting point has to be the identification of what those national economic, social and cultural objectives are. The OECD report has recommended the establishment of a national council for tertiary education, research and innovation, to be chaired by the Taoiseach. I am not convinced that the particular model recommended by the OECD is the optimal one.

However, there is a need to provide formal structures for an articulation of the broad cross sectoral perspectives that should inform a national strategy for higher education. Those structures need to reflect the central importance of that strategy to Irish society. A re-constituted Higher Education Authority, representing a wider range of interests, and the recently established Cabinet committee on science, technology and innovation form important parts of the picture. It is my intention to further explore the potential approaches, consult further with colleagues and return to Government with proposals on the most effective model overall for achieving the objective behind the OECD recommendation.

I intend all of this to proceed against a background of extensive consultation with key stakeholders in the sector. I initiated this process in January with a colloquium involving myself, senior officials of my Department, the Conference of Heads of Irish Universities, the Higher Education Authority, the Council of Directors of the Institutes of Technology and Dublin Institute of Technology. My Department is now engaged in a consultative process on key areas such as research and access with a view to obtaining the input of relevant stakeholders to the reform process. A research consultative forum is due to take place shortly and others will follow.

I reiterate my commitment to the process of reform and development which will enable our higher education system to move forward, within a framework of a unified national strategy, in contributing to the achievement of our broad economic, social and cultural objectives.

Educational Disadvantage.

David Stanton

Question:

78 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children who have participated in the Early Start programme in each year since its inception; the cost of this project for each of those years; the success of this project in combating educational disadvantage; the success of this project in involving parents and the community in the programme; the success of this project in developing methods of best practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13127/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Early Start pre-school project was established in 40 primary schools in designated areas of urban disadvantage in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Galway, Drogheda and Dundalk during 1994 and 1995. The aims of Early Start are to expose young children to an educational programme which would enhance their overall development, prevent school failure and offset the effects of social disadvantage. The total number of places available in Early Start centres has been 1,680 in each year since 1996, the first full year of operation, with the funding provided to support this number of places on a year to year basis. The provision involved for 2005 is €5 million.

Early childhood education and care is a horizontal policy issue involving several Departments and agencies. Policy options in this area are under active consideration within my own Department and also by the interdepartmental high level group on child care and early education, which is chaired by the National Children's Office.

Question No. 79 answered with QuestionNo. 69.

School Accommodation.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

80 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the way in which she proposes to address the growing problem of adequate provision of school places for children in areas of expanding population; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12997/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The school planning section of my Department is charged with planning the provision of suitable cost effective accommodation to underpin the delivery of first and second level education. Key tasks of the section include ensuring that there are sufficient pupil places available in first and second level schools and that the use of existing accommodation is optimised.

The process of assessing the need for new or additional educational facilities at primary or post-primary level in any given area entails consideration of all relevant factors, including enrolment and demographic trends, housing developments and the capacity of existing schools to meet the demand for places. Liaison with existing schools is an important part of the process also, as the school authorities would usually alert my Department where, in their view, the need for additional accommodation is anticipated. In this way, every effort is made to ensure that there is adequate existing provision or that timely arrangements are made to extend capacity or provide new infrastructure where necessary.

Over and above the statutory consultation provisions relating to draft area development plans, my Department has in recent years worked to strengthen contacts with local authorities to enable informed decisions to be made in planning future educational provision, for example, a specific forum, the Dublin school planning committee, chaired by officials of my Department, interacts with the Dublin local authorities. This forum comprises representatives of the local authorities in Dublin together with representatives of the patron bodies of primary schools and it works proactively in monitoring demographic changes and their likely impact.

The criteria for prioritising large scale building projects were revised following consultation with the education partners. Under the revised criteria, school projects in rapidly developing areas are assigned a band 1 rating which is the highest priority possible. This is clear evidence of my Department's commitment to ensuring that the needs of rapidly developing areas are met as quickly as possible.

The school planning section of my Department is also working proactively with some local authorities to explore the possibility of the development of school provision in tandem with the development of community facilities. This enhanced cooperation has the effect of minimising my Department's land requirements and thus reducing site costs while at the same time providing local communities with new schools with enhanced facilities. In addition, under the provisions of the strategic development zones, SDZ, it is generally the position that sites must be reserved for schools and that the schools must be developed commensurate with housing and other developments such as community facilities.

My Department has recently adopted an area based approach to school planning where, through a public consultation process involving all interested parties, a blueprint for schools' development in an area for a ten year timeframe is set out. The areas covered in the pilot phase of this new approach to school planning include the rapidly developing areas of north Dublin, south Louth, mid-Meath and the N4/M4 route running from Leixlip to Kilbeggan and including all rapidly developing towns and villages on that route.

Taken in combination the measures outlined will improve the speed and effectiveness of the response to emerging needs in rapidly developing areas.

Physical Education Facilities.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

81 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps she is taking to ensure that all goalposts used in schools are safe, in view of a number of accidents in which temporary or portable goalposts have collapsed on children causing injury and in some cases death; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13031/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989, individual school authorities are responsible, in the first instance, for ensuring the safety and welfare of children and others in their care. The National Standards Authority of Ireland has recently launched a new committee to develop a standard for the safety of goalposts. Involved in this committee, in addition to the National Standards Authority of Ireland itself, are such sporting organisations as the Gaelic Athletic Association, the Football Association of Ireland, Irish Rugby Football Union, the International Rugby Board, engineering firms, universities and other relevant State agencies, including an official from my Department.

Standardised Testing.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

82 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received a report from the NCCA recommending that all 450,000 primary school pupils should be tested for literacy and numeracy in first class and fifth class; if she intends to implement this proposal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13006/05]

Enda Kenny

Question:

129 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the position with regard to the introduction of standardised testing at primary level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12953/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 82 and 129 together.

Within the past week, I received the advice of the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, on standardised testing in compulsory schooling. This advice contains a number of recommendations all of which complement the NCCA's ongoing work on supporting assessment in schools. Standardised tests offer real potential to improve the quality of teaching and learning in our classrooms, to assist parents in supporting their children's progress and to provide system level data on pupil achievement.

I intend to consider the advice of the NCCA carefully and to consult, as appropriate, before making any decisions on implementing standardised tests as a requirement in primary schools.

Special Educational Needs.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

Question:

437 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will clarify her position regarding the education of the deaf community in view of comments made during a debate on 30 June 2004 which suggested that there were mutually exclusive arguments within the deaf community regarding education models; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there are not such major disagreements within the community, but rather between service providers and the deaf community; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13143/05]

Seán Crowe

Joe Sherlock

Question:

84 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will take action to prevent publishers of school books from reprinting text books with minor textual changes, forcing parents and schools to discard expensive books after a short period of time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13030/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Syllabus planners are conscious of the need to avoid over frequent changes, primarily to minimise increases in the cost burden for parents. Apart from a small number of prescribed texts at second level, mainly in the case of language subjects, school books are not approved or prescribed by my Department at first or second level. The publication and sale of school books are in the hands of independent enterprises. Decisions on which books to use are taken at school level.

School authorities have been advised that books should be changed only to the extent that is absolutely necessary. However, textbooks must be changed periodically to enable students' work to be kept educationally stimulating and to ensure that content and methodology are kept up to date.

My Department operates a grant scheme towards the cost of providing school textbooks for pupils from low income families in schools at first and second level. For the purposes of these grants, a needy pupil is a pupil from a family where there is genuine hardship because of unemployment, prolonged illness of a parent, large family size with inadequate means, single parenthood, or other family circumstances, such as substance abuse, which would indicate a similar degree of financial hardship. Principal teachers administer the book grant schemes in schools in a flexible way under the terms of the schemes based on their knowledge of particular circumstances in individual cases. Many schools operate book rental schemes and second-hand book exchanges.

A total of €3,961,683.89 was paid by my Department in respect of the school books grant scheme in primary schools for the 2004-05 school year. This figure includes €3,272,733.40 in respect of the loan or rental scheme. The total expenditure in post-primary schools for the 2004-05 school year was €6,359,000, which includes €221,240.00 in respect of the book rental or loan schemes seed capital.

School Administration.

Liz McManus

Question:

85 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has considered the recent survey carried out by the Irish Primary Principals Network which found that many principals are extremely overloaded and overworked; if she will address the administrative burden under which principals are operating; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13013/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I am aware of the concerns expressed by a number of organisations, including the Irish Primary Principals Network in their survey, about the administrative burden placed on schools and the effect this has on the workload of principals. In response to these concerns, I have already started a process of review of the administrative burden imposed on schools arising from departmental and legislative requirements. We can collectively seek opportunities to ensure that this burden is kept to the minimum, consistent with achieving the worthwhile and essential objectives of legislation in recent years.

The core purpose of the review I have set in motion is to focus sharply upon administrative processes and consequent administrative burdens which arise within the school as a result of regulations and/or departmental requirements and to consider what scope exists for alleviating these or having them performed in a more efficient and less demanding manner from the perspectives of the school.

In March my Department wrote to the various representative bodies inviting them to consider where and in what way present processes can be improved upon. My Department will work closely with all parties involved to find meaningful solutions in respect of this important issue.

Computerisation Programme.

Bernard Allen

Question:

86 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science if a new strategy for introducing information technology into schools will be announced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12941/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The major focus for my Department at present is the roll out of broadband connectivity to all recognised schools. This project is being undertaken in partnership with industry, following the establishment of a three year €18 million joint Government/IBEC-TIF fund. The broadband connectivity will be provided via a backbone schools network supported by HEAnet, which will provide managed Internet access, e-mail, security controls and other services designed to enhance the educational process. A broadband support service will be provided by the NCTE to assist schools with advice and information relating to the roll out and ongoing use of their broadband connectivity within the schools network.

The provision of always-on high speed Internet access for recognised schools represents a major development in the schools ICT initative to integrate technology into teaching and learning in our schools and equip our young people for full participation in the information society.

School Management.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

87 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to reported proposals from a number of religious orders to establish collaborative trusts to run schools under their control; if there have been any discussions with her Department on this proposal; if her attention has further been drawn to concerns that such a change might hasten the closure of schools around the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13021/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Members of religious orders have kept in close touch with my Department about the evolution of trust boards in their sector. At the core of this approach is an intent and desire to secure the future of the ethos of these schools at a time when the role of members of the orders in day to day management will be greatly diminished as a result of falling numbers of religious. I do not see the trust board concept as a threat to the continuation of a school of any particular ethos. While there is no doubt that issues of demographics and parental choice will have an impact on the future shape of educational delivery in Ireland, I do not see the advent of trust boards per se as resulting in school closures.

Third Level Education.

Seán Ryan

Question:

88 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps she intends to take to address the continuing low levels of attendance at third level institutions by young persons from areas of socioeconomic disadvantage, identified in recent figures published by the CAO; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13024/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Ireland has witnessed significant growth in participation in higher education in recent decades. In 1980, only 20% of all school leavers went on to higher education, today that figure is 54%. In 1980, only 3% of children from the least well off families entered higher education. According to the most recent national survey data available — Clancy 2001 — that figure has risen to between 20% and 30% of school leavers from the most under-represented groups. While this represents a big improvement it is below the average participation rate.

Broadening access to further and higher education is one of the Government's major policy priorities. The Government made a €42 million package available in 2003 which involved substantial increases in grant levels while extending the income thresholds and linking the amount of the "top up" grant to the maximum personal rate of unemployment assistance. The impact of this scheme resulted in an increase in the number of grant holders from 51,000 in 2002-03 to more than 56,000 in 2003-04 and an increase in the number of "top up" grant holders to more than 11,500.

In addition to the initiatives within the mainstream grant schemes, the National Office for Equity of Access to Higher Education manages for my Department a number of funding programmes to widen access and support the participation of socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. These include the HEA strategic initiative funding, Improving Access, through which €7.3 million is ring-fenced annually for widening access programmes of third level institutions; the student assistance fund which provides financial support to disadvantaged students who require additional support to enable them to fully benefit from their third level studies —€5.6 million allocated under this fund in 2004-05; the fund for students with disabilities in respect of which expenditure was over €6 million in 2004, which has contributed to an increase in participation by students with a disability, with approximately 1,790 students in receipt of funding under the 2004-05 scheme, an increase of almost 1,300 since 2000 when 511 were in receipt of funding under the scheme; and the millennium partnership fund for disadvantage through which €1.85 million was allocated in 2004-05 to 68 partnerships and community groups.

A number of practical steps are being taken to address the under-representation of young people from areas of socioeconomic disadvantage. This includes the establishment in August 2003 of the national office within the HEA as a co-ordinating unit to lead work nationally on achieving equity of access to higher education, co-ordinate funding and resources, and monitor and report on progress. In December 2004, the national office published a three year action plan, 2005-2007, which sets out a range of practical steps which need to occur so that more opportunities are created for groups who have to date been under-represented in the sector, such as socioeconomically disadvantaged school leavers. This will include arrangements so that all disadvantaged regions, schools and communities, in particular those with low levels of representation, are linked to access activities and programmes in at least one higher education institution in their region.

An integrated and coherent strategy is required if we are to further increase the participation rates among persons from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Incentivised funding at the level of the institutions and the individual as advocated in the action plan from the National Office for Equity of Access to Higher Education will be an important element of funding policies in the future. My Department is in consultation with the universities and the institutes of technology about their proposals for alternative entry and retention processes to improve access opportunities for students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. I also attach considerable importance to the recommendations in the action plan relating to awareness issues and the need for user friendly and accessible processes and procedures for the allocation of funding.

A priority area for action is evaluation of access programmes which have been established in higher education institutions to ascertain what strategies and partnerships work best in achieving equity of access to higher education for all under-represented groups. Building upon this work, the national office will develop and support the implementation of a national framework of access policies and initiatives for each target group, including young people from socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. The national office will monitor and report on progress in implementing the action plan and reaching national and institutional targets on equity of access to higher education.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

89 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to bring about an early examination of the pupil teacher ratio at primary and second level schools throughout the country; if the necessary corrective measures will be taken to bring the ratio here into line with other jurisdictions in which best practice is observed; her views on the urgent need to address this issue at an early date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12991/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Significant improvements have been made in the pupil teacher ratio at both primary and post primary levels in recent years. At primary level, the ratio has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 17.4:1 in the 2003-04 school year. At post-primary level the pupil teacher ratio has been reduced from 16:1 to 13.6:1 in the same period. In line with Government policy, my Department will continue to provide further reductions in the pupil teacher ratio, with priority being given to pupils with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and those in junior classes.

Public Private Partnerships.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

90 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department is planning further PPP schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12938/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My colleague, the Minister for Finance, provided a capital envelope of €555 million in respect of education PPPs for the period 2005 to 2009 and I am currently examining how this may be best utilised. This examination covers both schools and the third level sector.

A key rationale underpinning the decision to proceed with the initial bundle of five schools was to test the PPP approach in the case of schools, to learn from the experience and thereby to inform future usage of a PPP approach to procuring schools. Based on the experience to date, a number of issues are under active consideration by my Department and will inform my decision on the allocation of the funds available to me for PPP development. These include the type of PPP model to be used, the level of operation and service to be included in any new programme, how the projects should be bundled so as to provide the most cost effective procurement and the size and geographical spread of the bundles.

New building projects on greenfield sites that have been prioritised using the criteria agreed with the education partners and published by my Department fit the PPP model best, as distinct from projects that involve modernisation of existing buildings. I intend to announce my plans for a further PPP programme in the near future.

School Accommodation.

Seán Crowe

Question:

91 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the extra supports her Department plans to introduce in view of the long waiting list for parents looking to send their children to an all-Irish primary school in the Tallaght west area. [13123/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I approved the provision of temporary accommodation at the all-Irish primary school in Tallaght to meet its needs for September 2005. If a second all-Irish primary school is deemed necessary in the area, it is a matter for the patron body to make an application before the new schools advisory committee. Details outlining the application procedure for new schools intending to commence operation for the 2006 school year will be advertised later this year.

Special Educational Needs.

Shane McEntee

Question:

92 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Education and Science if the new system for the allocation of resources to children with special educational needs will be introduced as planned in September 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12967/05]

Dinny McGinley

Question:

143 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science if she plans to introduce a system of weighted allocation for children with special educational needs from September 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12961/05]

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

152 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science when she expects the review of the proposed weighted system of allocation of resource teaching support to be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12996/05]

Olwyn Enright

Question:

394 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the changes she will be making to the weighted system for the allocation of resources for children with special educational needs, due to be introduced in September 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13327/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 92, 143, 152 and 394 together.

In light of the reality that pupils in the high incidence disability categories of mild and borderline mild general learning disability and dyslexia are distributed throughout the education system, my Department, in consultation with educational interests, developed a general model of resource teacher allocation to schools to support students in these disability categories. This model, which was announced by my predecessor in 2004 to come into effect from September 2005, was designed to put in place a permanent resource in primary schools to cater for pupils in these categories. The model was constructed so that allocations would be based on pupil numbers, taking into account the differing needs of the most disadvantaged schools and the evidence that boys have greater difficulties than girls in this regard.

The advantages of using a general allocation model are as follows: it facilitates early intervention as the resource is in place in the school when the child enrols; it reduces the need for individual applications and supporting psychological assessments; it puts resources in place on a more systematic basis, thereby giving schools more certainty about their resource levels; it gives more security to special education teaching posts and makes special education teaching a more attractive option; it allows flexibility to school management in the deployment of resources, leading to a more effective and efficient delivery of services.

I have made it clear that while I am in favour of using a general allocation model for the reasons I have just given, I am conscious of the particular difficulties that the model announced last year could cause for small and rural schools if implemented as originally announced. For this reason I asked my Department to conduct a review of the model announced last year. This review is currently being finalised and I expect to make an announcement in this regard shortly.

Question No. 93 answered with QuestionNo. 69.

Schools Refurbishment.

Denis Naughten

Question:

94 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the action she is taking to upgrade schools in County Roscommon; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12747/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Applications for capital funding for schools are assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria, which was revised following consultation with the education partners. I have now announced the first phases of the 2005 schools building and modernisation programme which provided details of: 122 major school building projects country wide, including 89 primary school projects, which will prepare tenders and move to construction during the next 12 to 15 months; an additional 171 in the number of primary schools that will be invited to deliver their building projects on the basis of devolved funding; 43 schools, of which 32 are primary schools, that will be authorised to commence architectural planning; 590 schools approved for funding under the 2005 summer works scheme, more than 360 of which are primary schools; 124 schools, of which 73 are primary schools, whose projects will further progress through the design process.

In addition, approximately €18 million in respect of all primary schools will be issued under the devolved grant to enable schools to carry out minor works. Each primary school gets a standard rate of €3,809 together with a per pupil rate of €12.70. I plan to make a further announcement in the coming period regarding the 2005 schools building and modernisation programme that will include details of projects identified as suitable for construction under public private partnerships.

In addition to the three building projects currently under construction in County Roscommon, funding for a further nine projects is included in my recent announcements.

Question No. 95 answered with QuestionNo. 77.

School Curriculum.

Dan Neville

Question:

96 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of recommendations of the task force on the physical sciences which remain to be implemented; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12969/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department continues to progress the recommendations of the task force on the physical sciences as resources permit in collaboration and consultation with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Forfás and industry. One of the recommendations in that report was the appointment of a chief scientist who would have responsibility for overseeing developments under the task force and other science focused initiatives, and providing advice on all aspects of science and technology policy.

A chief science adviser and a deputy chief science adviser have been appointed and maintain continuing contact with my Department on implementation issues. The office of the chief science adviser works in conjunction with the interdepartmental committee for science, technology and innovation and the Cabinet committee for science and technology. It is not intended, therefore, to establish an implementation committee for the task force report. Significant progress has been made in a range of areas pertaining to my Department. A new science curriculum has been introduced at primary level supported by a resource grant in December 2004 of €1000 per school plus €10 per pupil. Revised syllabi in junior certificate science and in leaving certificate physics, chemistry and biology have been introduced. Work on the revision of the two remaining leaving certificate subjects — agricultural science and physics and chemistry, combined — is well advanced. The introduction of the revised syllabi has been supported by comprehensive inservice programmes for teachers. Additional equipment grants have been provided to schools, and laboratories continue to be refurbished as part of the ongoing schools building programme. In that context, €16 million was issued to schools in 2004 to support the implementation of the revised junior certificate science syllabus.

A review of grading of subjects in the leaving certificate and initial reports on teacher training has been undertaken and a review of mathematics at post-primary level is being undertaken by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. Investment in the programme of research in third level institutes is continuing apace to enhance and promote world class standards in research, innovation and development. Between this programme and the various grants to the research councils and other sources, an estimated €101.5 million will be invested in third level institutions in 2005.

The discover science and engineering programme, operated under the aegis of Forfás with the collaboration of the education sector, was launched in October 2003 to bring together existing science awareness activities in a unified strategy. I have recently announced a provision of €750,000 towards the cost of the BA Festival of Science which is being hosted by Trinity College this year. This is one of the world's leading science events and will be attended by some 3,000 delegates, with an estimated 7,000 — 10,000 people enjoying some part of the programme.

Psychological Service.

Bernard Allen

Question:

97 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of national schools currently covered by the NEPS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12958/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The current situation is that 1,772 national schools have psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, directly assigned to them and, therefore, have access to the full NEPS service. All schools that do not currently have NEPS psychologists assigned to them may avail of the scheme for commissioning psychological assessments, SCPA, whereby the schools can commission assessments from a member of the panel of private psychologists approved by NEPS, and NEPS will pay the fees directly to the psychologists concerned. Details of this scheme, including the conditions that apply to it, appear upon the Department's website.

NEPS also provides assistance to all schools that suffer from critical incidents, regardless of whether they have a NEPS psychologist assigned to them.

Multi-Denominational Schools.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

98 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the call from Educate Together for the State to take action to provide real support for the planned development of a national network of multi-denominational schools; if she intends to respond to the call; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13028/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I am aware of Educate Together's call for more state support for multidenominational schools. Significant Government funding, €14.1 million, has been provided for capital projects in Educate Together schools in recent years, including six new schools in Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Kildare. Of all the new schools recognised in the past three years, 12 were Educate Together schools. A total of 12 multidenominational schools were granted recognition under ET patronage since the revised procedures came into operation for the 2003-04 school year, three opened in 2003, four opened in 2004 and five have been granted provisional recognition for opening in September 2005.

Question No. 99 answered with QuestionNo. 77.

Alternative Energy Projects.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

100 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science if any research is currently funded by her Department into biofuels; the plans in place for the next five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13121/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department, through its agencies, is currently funding a number of projects in this area. The agencies and projects are the following.

The Higher Education Authority, under the programme for research in third level institutions, is funding: Environment Research Institute, University College Cork, which aims to develop expertise in the areas of wind energy and other sustainable energy sources; Urban Institute, University College Dublin, which conducts research into components on energy and resource efficiency and energy conservation, transport policy; Environmental Change Institute, NUIG, which is overseeing research projects in areas such as the maximisation of biological renewable energy generation — methane — from organic wastes and wastewaters: role, impact and control of sulphate reducing bacteria or SRB.

The Irish Research Council for Science, Engineering and Technology is funding four individual researchers who are undertaking the following research projects in the area of biofuels: energy and chemicals from converted biomass technologies; development of an integrated heat pump energy simulation model for green buildings; proton transport in new materials for fuel cells; technical and economic analysis of renewable generation connected into the electricity distribution grid.

Finally, there are two projects in the institute of technology sector which are being funded under the technological sector research programme. These are in IT, Carlow — biothanol from waste for use as a fuel — and Limerick IT — design as a wind VSCF converter.

The policy issues associated with renewable energy sources are matters for my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. A dedicated agency, Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, was established under the aegis of his Department in May 2002 for the purpose of addressing these issues. I understand that SEI may also commission research projects in this area.

School Transport.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

101 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science when she expects to publish the review of the school transport scheme; if the review recommends that parents of primary pupils will have to pay charges of up to €150 per year; if she intends to accept this proposal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13007/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The review of the school transport scheme within my Department is at an advanced stage. I have no plans to introduce new charges for pupils attending primary schools.

Register of Offenders.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

102 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Education and Science when the legislation to establish a register of persons considered unsafe to work with children will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12966/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

A cross governmental working group was established to put forward proposals for reform of vetting by the central vetting unit run by the Garda Síochána. Among its recommendations was the proposal that the Departments of Education and Science and Health and Children explore the possibility of developing an employment history register, similar to the PECS system in Northern Ireland.

An implementation group has been established by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and discussions between my Department and the Department of Health and Children are ongoing in that context. In addition, my Department will convene a meeting with the relevant interested parties to explore the issues involved. Although considerable preparatory work examining the issues relating to a PECS system has been undertaken by my Department, given that substantial further work needs to be undertaken it is not possible at this time to estimate when any legislative proposals arising from these discussions can be published.

The implementation group is also examining issues relating to the introduction of legislation to ensure the maintenance of a national criminal records system within the Garda Síochána, the disclosure of not just "hard" facts but also "softer" information, and access to information about — and proof of — criminal convictions for the purposes of litigation. The working group also recognised the need to expand the number of agencies which could access the central vetting unit operated by the Garda Síochána to include all people working with children and vulnerable adults. To that end, the Minister of State with responsibility for children, Deputy Brian Lenihan, has announced a major increase in the resources to be provided to the Garda vetting unit to improve the level of vetting available to employers who employ people to work with children and vulnerable adults. The initiative includes the more than doubling of staff resources for the unit to enable the Garda Síochána's vetting services to be extended to all persons working with children and vulnerable adults.

The Teaching Council has a role here too. Once it is formally established, the council will provide the teaching profession, both primary and post-primary, with the means to self regulate and its functions will include maintaining a register of teachers and, if necessary, removing the names of those shown to be unfit to teach, including those unfit to teach by reason of the fact that they pose a threat to children.

Third Level Education.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

103 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she intends to increase the number of places available for persons applying for a higher diploma in education course; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12748/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department is responsible for teacher education and development, with particular regard to initial teacher education covering the colleges of education and the education departments in the universities and colleges. Applications for the higher diploma in education are made through the Higher Diploma in Education — National University of Ireland — Applications Centre, known as the HDEAC, which was established in 1998.

The higher diploma in education course is offered by the education departments of Trinity College Dublin and the four universities of the National University of Ireland at Cork, Dublin, Galway and Maynooth. The current quota for admissions for the 2005-06 programmes is 1,000 and I have no plans to increase this number at present. My Department and the HEA continue to review the supply and demand of second level teachers on an ongoing basis.

Ministerial Appointments.

Phil Hogan

Question:

104 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science the circumstances surrounding the recent appointment of the former Secretary General at the Department of Health and Children to the Higher Education Authority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12956/05]

Seymour Crawford

Question:

125 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received any communication from any current or former member of the HEA with regard to the recent appointment of the former Secretary General of the Department of Health and Children to the authority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12963/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 104 and 125 together.

On 9 March 2005, the Government made a decision to appoint the then Secretary General of the Department of Health and Children to the position of full-time chairman of the Higher Education Authority. This appointment took effect from 11 April 2005 for a two year period. This two year period has been identified as a key transitional phase in the implementation of change within higher education on foot of a recent OECD review of higher education in Ireland. I can confirm that on 21 March last I received correspondence from a then member of the HEA about this appointment.

School Curriculum.

Willie Penrose

Question:

105 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received the further report from the NCCA on changes to the structure and content of the leaving certificate examination; if she has given consideration to any of the proposals contained therein; if it is intended to publish the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13018/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The second advice from the NCCA on proposals to reform of senior cycle education was sent to me on 19 April 2005. Clearly, we are all concerned that our education system should be positioned so that it continues to maintain excellence, relevance, quality and inclusiveness in the changing climate which lies ahead.

The proposals are ambitious and far reaching and I have already expressed some concerns about the logistics, feasibility, cost and complexity of some aspects. I am having the NCCA's advice examined fully within my Department and will engage in further discussions with the council and with stakeholders on the proposals and priorities for the future, with a view to making a decision as soon as possible.

It is crucial that reforms will promote cohesion and equity in our society and enable students to develop their talents, prepare them for adult life, for lifelong learning and employment in the knowledge society. The system must continue to play its part in promoting Ireland's competitiveness and growth. We must also ensure that public confidence in the integrity, objectivity and quality of senior cycle education is maintained, that change is well managed and resourced and that change is managed at a pace the system can absorb.

These are major considerations of fundamental importance to our future and our children's future. It is vital that the implications of the proposals be examined thoroughly and that changes adopted are effective in supporting strategic change which promotes increased relevance, quality and equity in the system. I do not intend to publish the NCCA's advice. However, a copy is accessible on the NCCA's website at www.ncca.ie.

Schools Building Projects.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

106 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the measures which exist to provide additional funding for schools that are not located in RAPID areas but which cater for a sizeable proportion of pupils who live in RAPID areas; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that 40% of pupils attending a school (details supplied) in Dublin 20 live in a RAPID area ; if the school’s extension and refurbishment requirements will be fast tracked in view of this information; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13115/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The school in question has an application with my Department for a major capital project, which has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects revised last year in consultation with the education partners. This project will be progressed in the context of the school buildings and modernisation programme from 2005 to 2009.

The school is participating in the urban dimension of my Department's Giving Children an Even Break programme and will receive non-pay support amounting to €4,250 in the current school year under the programme. The school is also participating in the Palmerstown cluster of my Department's school completion programme and, in this context, benefits from funding of €160,000 being provided for the cluster, which encompasses three schools in all, in the current school year.

Higher Education Grants.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

107 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason her Department is still not able to supply figures for the academic year 2002-03 of the socioeconomic breakdown of new recipients of third level grants; when she expects to be able to make this information available; the action she intends to take to broaden access to third level grants; when the Student Support Bill will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13029/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The most recent data on participation rates at third level is that published in the HEA review of higher education participation in 2003, which showed that participation in higher education among the school leaver age cohort has passed the 50% mark for the first time. The study puts the overall transfer rate to higher education at 54% in 2003, as against 44% in 1998, 36% in 1992, 25% in 1986 and 20% in 1980. These data are based on a full census of entrants.

The study also contains findings relating to the socioeconomic breakdown of entrants in that year which are based on a sample of new entrants in 2003. It should be noted that previous studies on participation by socioeconomic group, the Clancy reports, conducted on 1998, 1992, 1986 and 1982 were based on a census of new entrants in those years. A follow up to previous Clancy studies based on a census of entrants in 2004 is under way and will provide a full picture of progress in higher education participation by socioeconomic group since 1998.

Final analysis and comparison with previous Clancy studies, together with any policy conclusions, should await the outcome of the full survey which will be available later this year. The current study nonetheless provides some interesting pointers. It suggests that participation rates of some of the lower socioeconomic groups, particularly skilled manual and semi-skilled and unskilled manual and other non-manual workers, have increased substantially.

With regard to the number of students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds in receipt of higher education grants, it is noteworthy that the number of students benefiting from the "top up" grant scheme has increased from approximately 2,300 in 2000-01 to more than 11,500 in 2003-04, of whom more than 9,000 were in higher education. In terms of spending on student financial assistance, the total allocation for the student support schemes in 2005 is in excess of €200 million. This reflects the outcome of the Government's decision in 2003 to provide a special €42 million package to improve the maintenance grant schemes, which involved an increase in payment levels and in qualifying thresholds. The maximum amount of grant support available this year is €4,855, including the top up grant, compared to just €2,032 in 1996/97.

In so far as data on the socioeconomic backgrounds of grant holders are concerned, limited data have been collected by my Department in the past with specific reference to the higher education grants scheme. For this reason, the level of data requested by the Deputy is not yet available in my Department for each of the schemes.

Looking to the future, the HEA has, at the request of my Department, been working to place the Clancy surveys on a more systematic basis. An electronic student record system is being developed in conjunction with the universities and the institutes of technology. It is intended that this new system will provide more timely and complete data, including the socioeconomic background of first time students. I have asked the HEA to examine how this system can provide more timely and reliable data on the socioeconomic background of grant holders.

With regard to the system for allocating higher education grants, in accordance with the commitment in the An Agreed Programme for Government, I propose to introduce a single unified scheme of maintenance grants for students in higher education for the academic year 2006-07. In this context, I intend to put in place, as early as possible, a more coherent administration system which will facilitate consistency of application and improved client accessibility. This is necessary if we are to ensure public confidence in the awards system and ensure the timely delivery of grants to those who need them most.

Whatever new arrangements are eventually decided upon will be provided for in new statutory arrangements through a new Student Support Bill. This Bill, which will provide statutory underpinning for the schemes, will have as a key objective the promotion of equality of access. I also envisage that the Bill will provide for an independent appeals system. The timescale for the publication of this Bill is contingent on a range of issues which are the subject of ongoing consultations.

Another significant development in the area of access to third level education was the launch last December of the national action plan prepared by the National Office for Equity of Access to Higher Education. This plan was prepared with the assistance of an advisory committee from the education and social partners. A key objective of the plan is the development of the most effective means towards increasing access and participation in higher education by learners from disadvantaged schools and communities. My Department is, in this context, in consultation with the universities and the institutes of technology about their proposals for alternative entry and retention processes to improve access opportunities for students from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Teacher Training.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

108 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the ratio of male to female primary school teachers at entry level to the teaching profession; the way in which she will tackle the growing gender gap in teaching at primary level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12950/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

According to my Department's records, in the current school year 144 male teachers have been appointed for the first time as permanent or temporary qualified teachers at primary level. The equivalent figure for female teachers is 1,213. The female to male ratio is, therefore, in the order of 9:1. The relatively low number of males in the teaching force is a feature common to all OECD countries.

It is important to attract more men into teaching for a number of reasons, not least of which is the positive role models that teachers provide in children's lives and the desirability of having both male and female role models in our schools. I genuinely believe that teaching should be seen as an attractive profession for the best candidates of both genders. Teaching is fulfilling work which makes a huge social contribution.

With the increases in teachers' salaries under partnership agreements and benchmarking in recent years, it is also now a well paid job. The average salary for a teacher is now €50,000, an increase of approximately 43% on the 1997 figure. This compares favourably with an average industrial wage of about €29,000 per annum. The pension and holiday entitlements of teachers also heighten the attractiveness of the profession. I also genuinely believe that teachers are held in high regard in this country and deservedly so.

The Government wants to attract and reward the best teachers. In addition to increasing teachers' salaries, we have undertaken other initiatives to enhance the status of the profession, not least of which is the establishment of the Teaching Council as a professional regulatory body. However, a particular focused effort must be made to encourage more men to become teachers, particularly at primary level. A report on attracting more men into primary teaching is currently being compiled by a committee comprising representatives of the colleges of education, the Institute of Guidance Counsellors, the INTO and officials of my Department.

The main objective of this committee is to make recommendations on strategies and initiatives to increase the number of males entering primary teaching. It is expected that the committee will make recommendations in respect of both short-term and long-term strategies. The work of the committee is almost complete and I understand I can expect to receive its report within a few weeks.

Early Childhood Education.

Michael Ring

Question:

109 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if the Early Start programme will be extended; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12952/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Early Start pre-school project was established in 40 primary schools in designated areas of urban disadvantage in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Galway, Drogheda and Dundalk during 1994 and 1995. The aims of Early Start are to expose young children to an educational programme which would enhance their overall development, prevent school failure and offset the effects of social disadvantage.

Early Start is a one year, pre-school intervention aimed at children from selected designated areas of disadvantage. Children must be between the ages of three and four years on 1 September of the year they are enrolled. The Early Start project is designed to cater for the needs of children, including those with disabilities, who are most at risk of not reaching their potential in the education system and the school must give priority to the children who are most at risk.

With regard to any expansion in early childhood education provision, including for children from disadvantaged areas, I am concerned to ensure that any future actions by my Department in this area are based on a collaborative approach with other Departments involved in the overall early childhood care and education, ECCE, sector. Meeting the overall objective of providing the best possible service to the communites and children involved requires that any educational provision by my Department takes account of child care measures under the remit of other Departments.

Third Level Education.

Simon Coveney

Question:

110 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has given assurances to the third level sector that funds raised independently will not be taken into account when making Exchequer funding available to universities and ITs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12942/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I have recently indicated that I accept as a matter of principle that income generated by higher education institutions from external sources should not be subject to off setting in the allocation of Exchequer funding. This is in a context where the recent OECD review of Irish higher education recommended that institutions should be incentivised to seek external sources of funding. However, in determining the income which it is appropriate for institutions to retain, account must be taken of Exchequer expenditure which has facilitated the generation of such income.

Suicide Prevention.

Jack Wall

Question:

111 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has satisfied herself that there is a sufficient educational and awareness programme in schools on depression and suicide; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13016/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I am aware of the serious problem of youth suicide and of the vital role schools can play in prevention. Prevention needs to be addressed at whole school level through provision of relevant curricula for all children, through effective implementation of the social personal and health education, SPHE, programme and through the provision of care afforded by a good pastoral system, including the capacity to respond appropriately to early signs of difficulty. The development of self esteem, general coping skills and personal effectiveness is the most appropriate way to help the general population of young people to deal with life pressures and stress.

Within the curriculum, social, personal and health education, SPHE, provides for the development of personal and social skills, including self awareness, respect for others, self esteem and communication skills which can play an important role in encouraging a positive self image. SPHE is now a compulsory subject both at primary level and in the junior cycle of post-primary schools. At second level the key emphasis is on promoting self esteem, physical and mental/emotional well being and responsible decision making. Self management, communications, physical and emotional health, coping with loss, handling conflict, substance abuse, personal safety, relationships and sexuality are covered. Implementation of SPHE in schools is assisted by a full-time support service which operates on an integrated basis in collaboration between the Department of Education and Science and the health boards.

A curriculum in SPHE is being developed by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment for senior cycle students. Mental health is one of five key areas which will be addressed in the new syllabus. An optional module in mental health matters is among the programmes included by many schools as part of their transition year programme. In addition, exploring masculinities, which may be taken as part of the SPHE programme in schools in transition year or senior cycle includes many topics designed to assist young males to become more open when experiencing personal problems and to seek professional help.

Pastoral care teams in schools provide important assistance in promoting students' wellbeing and in ensuring that potential difficulties can be identified early. Class year tutors, guidance counsellors, home school liaison co-ordinators and the services of the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, can play an important role in this respect. NEPS has developed an advice and information pack for schools on responding to critical incidents. The pack is designed to provide practical step by step guidance for teachers and principals on how to respond when a trauma or tragedy occurs. The pack was prepared drawing on a range of publications and from the work of a range of agencies, including those concerned with bereavement and suicide.

My Department is represented on a national steering group which is preparing a national strategy for action on suicide prevention.

Educational Disadvantage.

Joan Burton

Question:

112 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the main points of the proposals to combat educational disadvantage which she outlined to the INTO conference; when recruitment will commence for the new posts; when the new posts will be in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12999/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I will shortly publish a new framework for tackling disadvantage in education. The new action plan will build on the success of existing programmes, while addressing the issues that have diluted the overall effectiveness of some measures.

The new approach to tackling disadvantage will include better identification of levels of disadvantage in our schools and a single integrated programme of supports for schools with concentrated levels of disadvantage which will bring together, and build upon, some ten existing schemes and initiatives. Each school in the programme will benefit from a package of supports, with the highest level of assistance being targeted at children in the most disadvantaged schools. To make sure that it is effectively implemented, the new framework will be introduced on a phased basis, starting in the next school year.

Early School Leavers.

Michael Ring

Question:

113 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children who leave school before sitting the junior certificate examination for the most recent year for which statistics are available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12972/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The most recent published analysis by my Department of school retention in Ireland was released in August 2004. The report indicates that of those who commenced the junior cycle programme in September 1994, approximately 3,600 or 5.7% left school before completing the junior certificate three years later.

My Department's approach to addressing the issue of retention in schools comprises legislative and curricular reforms as well as interventions to prevent early school leaving. The Education (Welfare) Act 2000 established the National Educational Welfare Board, NEWB, as the single national body with responsibility for school attendance.

With regard to curriculum reform, my Department's strategies have included widening the educational experience available to students through such programmes as the junior certificate schools programme, JCSP, the leaving certificate vocational programme, LCVP, and the leaving certificate applied, LCA.

The school completion programme directly targets those in danger of dropping out of the education system and is a key component of my Department's strategy to discriminate positively in favour of children and young people who are at risk of early school leaving. It is important to note that education and training provision is available outside the formal school system for young people who leave school earlier in programmes such as Youthreach, Youth Encounter and FÁS.

Schools Building Projects.

Billy Timmins

Question:

114 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding funding at a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13128/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

As part of a review of all projects for the 2005 capital programme, the application for capital funding from the school in question was assessed against the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects which were revised last year following consultation with the education partners. Under this review all projects were assigned a band rating and the progress of individual projects is being considered in the context of the school building programme from 2005.

Children Act.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

115 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science the sections of the Children Act 2001 for which her Department has responsibility and which have been brought into operation; the sections that have yet to be brought into operation; if a timetable has been set for the implementation of the remaining sections; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13022/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Part 10 of the Children Act 2001 relates to the governance and operation of children detention schools. Section 159(1) of the Act has been commenced for the purpose of allowing three representatives of children detention schools to be appointed to the special residential services board. However, Part 10 of the Act cannot be commenced more fully at this time as its effect will include replacing the existing industrial and reformatory schools with children detention schools. While boys aged between 17 and 21 years who are convicted of a criminal offence may be sent to a place of detention, there is no equivalent place at present for female offenders who may be imprisoned from the age of 17 years.

It is intended that the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform will provide a facility for young women similar to that provided for boys. The timing of the commencement of Part 10 of the Act is contingent upon such a facility becoming available. Pending commencement, industrial and reformatory schools continue to be governed by the Children Acts.

School Accommodation.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

116 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the recent closure of a national school (details supplied) in Limerick which had to close as a result of rodent activity; her views on whether it is acceptable that schools should be forced to close for such reasons; the steps she is taking to bring all such schools up to an acceptable condition; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13004/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, individual school authorities are responsible, in the first instance, for ensuring the safety and welfare of children and others in their care. The management authority of the school referred to by the Deputy is given an annual allocation of €3,809, plus €12.70 per pupil, under the grant scheme for minor works which can be used entirely at its discretion to address such basic health and safety issues as they arise. The management authority of this school has an application with my Department for the provision of a new school building, which has been assessed in accordance with the revised prioritisation criteria and is being considered in the context of the school buildings and modernisation programme.

I have made a number of announcements about the 2005 school building programme since the beginning of the year, which included details of 43 school projects which are being authorised to proceed to architectural planning immediately. I will make further announcements on projects which will progress, on a phased basis, into the architectural planning process. The proposed project at the school referred to by the Deputy will be considered in this regard.

Early School Leavers.

Enda Kenny

Question:

117 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children who fail to make the transition from primary to secondary school annually; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12973/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The specific information requested by the Deputy is not available at present. My Department operates a number of programmes at both primary and post-primary level to tackle the problem of early school leaving, such as the Giving Children an Even Break programme, the home/school/community liaison scheme and the school completion programme. Both the HSCL scheme and all 82 school completion programme projects operate transfer programmes which are very important in assisting pupils in making the transition from primary to post-primary level.

The Education Welfare Act 2000 and the establishment of the National Educational Welfare Board provide a comprehensive framework for promoting regular school attendance and tackling the problems of absenteeism and early school leaving. The funding provided for the NEWB this year represents an increase of 20% on the 2004 allocation, a clear reflection of my strong commitment to improving school attendance and addressing early school leaving.

School Staffing.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

118 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to two schools in the Tallaght area in which 54 nationalities are represented, which are not designated disadvantaged but are on the other periphery of a RAPID area, to which no extra funding or teaching staff are available and a large proportion of the parents of whose children are on welfare payments; and the way in which she proposes to support schools working under these conditions. [13125/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

One of the schools to which the Deputy refers is currently included in the Giving Children an Even Break, GCEB, programme and is in receipt of financial support under this scheme. Both schools are included in the school completion programme, which is my Department's main programme for tackling early school leaving.

The school completion programme is based on an integrated cross community approach to tackling educational disadvantage, involving primary and post primary schools, parents, communities and relevant statutory and voluntary agencies. Its objective is to provide a range of interventions in areas of disadvantage that support the retention of young people in education. The two schools referred to by the Deputy are part of a school completion programme "cluster" of one post-primary school and three primary schools that received an allocation of €160,000 in the current school year.

Schools with an enrolment of 14 or more non-English speaking non-national pupils are entitled to an additional teacher for a minimum of a year and a maximum of two years. Where a full-time teacher is sanctioned to provide English language support, a start up grant of €634 is paid with a top up grant of €317 where the appointment is continued for a second year. The two schools to which the Deputy refers have five language support teachers appointed for this school year.

Question No. 119 answered with QuestionNo. 75.

School Curriculum.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

120 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools offering the full relationships and sexuality module at secondary level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12943/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Social, personal and health education, SPHE, is a mandatory part of the curriculum in junior cycle in all post-primary schools with effect from September 2003. The curriculum is designed to promote personal development and the health and well-being of students, help them create supportive relationships and encourage the values and skills for responsible decision making. Issues regarding belonging and integrating, handling conflict constructively, dealing with peer pressure, influences on decision making, substance misuse, relationships and sexuality education, RSE, are dealt with specifically.

In addition, all schools are required to have an agreed school policy and a suitable relationships and sexuality education programme in place for senior cycle pupils. An integrated SPHE programme at senior cycle incorporating RSE is being developed. The curriculum is supported by guidelines for teachers and a full-time support service operating in collaboration with the health boards. An evaluation of the implementation of SPHE is currently under way.

Schools Refurbishment.

Seán Crowe

Question:

121 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department sees a school (details supplied) in Dublin 1 playing any education role in future; and if funding will be made available for the refurbishment that is needed. [12749/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department is examining the overall provision of all-Irish post-primary education in the general north Dublin city area. The outcome of this examination will determine the long-term accommodation options for the school referred to by the Deputy.

Literacy Levels.

Joan Burton

Question:

122 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science if it is intended to publish the report, Literacy and Numeracy in Disadvantaged Schools; if the report found that in some schools up to 50% of pupils have literacy problems; the steps she intends to take to address the serious problems identified in the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12998/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The report of the inspectorate of my Department of a thematic evaluation of literacy and numeracy in disadvantaged schools will be published shortly and details on its findings will be given at that point. I have expressed my commitment to prioritising support for children with literacy and numeracy difficulties on a number of occasions as I know that the attainment of proficiency in reading and mathematics has a major effect on children's attainment at school and on the employment and other opportunities available to them throughout their lives.

A number of initiatives have been introduced in recent years in the most disadvantaged schools to address literacy and numeracy problems, for example, last November, I announced an additional grant of €500,000 to improve the availability of books in disadvantaged schools, with a view to these books being given to children to read in the home. Research shows that the availability of books and the extent of a culture of reading in the home has a significant effect on children's literacy levels. Initiatives to promote family literacy and encourage parents to help with their children's reading through paired reading programmes have also been put in place.

A comprehensive professional development programme for teachers has been introduced in a number of disadvantaged schools in Dublin, Cork and Limerick. Early intervention initiatives such as the reading recovery and maths recovery programmes have also been put in place in several areas of socio-economic disadvantage. Reports of the effectiveness of these interventions are very positive and my Department is considering their extension to more schools in disadvantaged areas. Improving literacy and numeracy standards in disadvantaged areas is a key priority for me and one that I have prioritised for funding and support.

School Curriculum.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

123 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has considered the inaugural report by the Irish Language Commissioner; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12962/05]

Emmet Stagg

Question:

142 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the call made by the Irish Language Commissioner, Mr. Seán Ó Cuireán, for a review of Irish language education in primary and secondary schools; her views on this call; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13027/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 123 and 142 together.

The recent report of the Irish Language Commissioner highlighted the fact that despite appreciable time devoted to Irish in the school system, many students emerge from primary and post-primary education without achieving a reasonable command of the language. Particular concerns were raised about students' command of the spoken language.

While I accept that the standard of oral Irish in particular of many of our young people is not as it should be, it is important to note that significant efforts have been made by my Department in recent years to improve standards in the teaching and learning of Irish in our schools. The revised Irish language programme at primary level places a strong emphasis on oral Irish. This programme, implemented in all schools since September 2003 and supported by extensive in-service training by the primary curriculum support programme, should bring significant improvement to the standard of spoken Irish over time. This development at primary level complemented similar curricular changes at second level where syllabus reform is ongoing.

Significant improvements are being made in regard to 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. Funding has been provided to the comhairle to support this task and this is an area that will need further work.

Marino Institute of Education now provides Irish courses at different levels for teachers and an enhanced range of supports for those studying for the scrúdú le haghaidh cáilíochta sa Ghaeilge has been put in place. Evaluations by my Department's inspectorate of the teaching and learning of Irish in our schools provide useful analysis to underpin future policy making in this area.

The inspectorate, in its 2002 publication, 50 School Reports — What Inspectors Say, has reported that the teaching of Irish is good in the majority of primary schools with the strongest aspects being the teaching of reading, poetry and writing. However, oral language attainment is generally poor despite considerable time being devoted to this aspect of Irish. This resonates with a view expressed by the Coimisinéir Teanga that insufficient attention is given to the use of Irish as a medium of communication in lessons taught. The Coimisinéir Teanga has pointed to other issues which I will consider in the context of developing ongoing policy responses.

At post-primary level, subject inspection reports indicate that inspectors regularly observe a good standard in the teaching and learning of Irish and that students demonstrate a good knowledge of texts being studied. However, there is concern that Irish is not used as the language of instruction in many classes, that Irish is taught through English in a significant number of classrooms and that the level of exemptions from Irish is too high.

My Department is engaged in a number of evaluation activities relating to the teaching and learning of Irish. These include a focused evaluation of Irish in 45 primary schools and an evaluation of the teaching and learning of Irish in the junior cycle in 75 post-primary schools. Both of these inspections will be completed in 2005 and reports will be published subsequently. A report on standards of Irish in sixth class in primary schools is being prepared by Dr. John Harris and will be finalised later in 2005. This report will look at changes in pupil achievement levels between the years 1985 and 2003. Also, at the request of my Department, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, is carrying out a review of languages in the post-primary curriculum. This will include Irish.

I am confident that the above reports will both inform us of good practice within the system and point to areas requiring improvement. The inspectorate of my Department, 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 regarding areas where further improvements could be made. The Coimisinéir Teanga, along with other interest groups, contributed to that process. I have also recently met with An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta to discuss further improvements that could be made to support schools in improving the teaching and learning of Irish and to promote high quality education through the medium of Irish.

It is important to note that the issue of promoting the Irish language is not one that can be advanced by schools alone. Societal attitudes to the Irish language certainly impact on students' desire to learn it. This Government has demonstrated a clear commitment to promoting our national language. It is hoped that the continuing initiatives in education along with the increased emphasis on the use of Irish in the Official Languages Act will in time create a positive climate whereby students will realise the value of learning our native language and, as a consequence, language competence will prosper.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

124 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the findings of the report of the Committee of Public Accounts into the redress scheme for victims of institutional abuse; the action she intends to take arising from the report; if she intends to implement the recommendations contained in the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13009/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I welcome the publication of report of the Committee of Public Accounts and I have asked my Department to give due consideration to its findings and recommendations, particularly in terms of their relevance to and implications for the management of major policy issues within the Department.

I was pleased to note that the report acknowledges that, in establishing the redress board and introducing the various other redress initiatives for survivors of child abuse, the Government was motivated by a combination of social, humanitarian and legal considerations. The report notes that the setting up of a statutory redress scheme should be viewed in the context of the significant contingent liability which existed in respect of survivors of child abuse and the wish of the Government to provide a fair and humane way for compensating survivors without requiring them to face the trauma of adversarial cross examination in court. The report also notes that the Government decided to establish a statutory redress scheme regardless of whether the religious congregations would contribute to the scheme and that in securing a meaningful contribution from the congregations the Government had achieved its baseline level of €128 million.

While the report deals specifically with the redress scheme, the recommendations are of general cross departmental concern and their relevance for the Civil Service will need to be considered. My Department is working with the Department of Finance on the preparation of a minute of the Minister for Finance responding to the committee on the recommendations of the report. A copy of this minute will be circulated to all Accounting Officers.

Question No. 125 answered with QuestionNo. 104.

Psychological Service.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

126 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has satisfied herself with the roll out of the NEPS particularly outside the greater Dublin area; the areas of difficulty and the steps her Department is taking to fill the gaps in the system in these areas. [13124/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The complement of psychologists in NEPS has increased from 43 psychologists, 30 in permanent full-time posts and 13 on secondment, on the date of establishment in September 1999 to 128 in January 2005, plus two psychologists on career break. Recruitment of psychologists to NEPS has, until recently, been undertaken by the Civil Service and Local Government Commissioners. The last Civil Service Commission panel of 69 psychologists has been exhausted and the recently established Public Appointments Service is now making arrangements to set up a new panel.

It has proved difficult to recruit psychologists to certain regions, most notably the mid-western region. Accordingly, to achieve a better regional spread of NEPS psychologists, under the next recruitment competition for NEPS psychologists, regional panels rather than one national panel will be established. This will allow my Department to give greater priority in filling vacancies to areas with the greatest need.

It should be noted that all schools that do not have NEPS psychologists assigned to them may avail of the scheme for commissioning psychological assessments, whereby the school can have an assessment carried out by a member of the panel of private psychologists approved by NEPS, and NEPS will pay the psychologist the fees for this assessment directly. Details of this process, and the conditions that apply to the scheme, appear on my Department's website. NEPS also provides assistance to all schools that suffer from critical incidents, regardless of whether they have a NEPS psychologist assigned to them.

State Examinations.

Willie Penrose

Question:

127 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the call made by the National Parents Council for the abolition of the €90 fee to sit the junior certificate exam, which it described as grossly unfair; if she intends to respond to the call; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13019/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I am aware of the call for the abolition of the examination fee. However, examination entry fees are in existence to defray in part the costs of running the certificate examinations. Examination entry fees cover only part of the costs involved. Candidates who hold a current medical card or are dependent on a parent or guardian who is the holder of a current medical card are not liable for examination fees. Medical cards will be accepted only if valid on 1 February 2005, the due date for payment.

School Enrolments.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

128 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science the provisions she is putting in place to cater for the projected increase in the student population in the years ahead; if she will publish the report prepared by her officials on this subject; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13014/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department is considering the results of recent revisions to projections of future enrolment in the light of demographic and social changes as well as the publication by the CSO of new population projections in December 2004. Uncertainties arise in regard to future migration trends, participation at various levels of education and long-term trends in births. Nevertheless, it is important to move ahead and plan for the continuing increase in enrolments at primary level, which will eventually feed into second level, as well as the need to increase completion flows from further and higher education in the light of long-term economic and social needs. I plan to make the latest projection publicly available in due course.

Question No. 129 answered with QuestionNo. 82.

Interculturalism in Schools.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

130 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps she is taking to assist schools in catering for the increasingly diverse cultural and ethnic nature of the pupil base, particularly at primary level; if her attention has been drawn to concerns expressed by teachers at the lack of resources available to them to cope with the changing nature of the pupil base; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13015/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department has been active for a number of years in promoting interculturalism in schools. A range of actions are in place to support the participation of minority groups and Travellers in education. These include information for schools on the integration of asylum seekers and Travellers; additional resources for schools to support the needs of students for whom English is not the mother tongue; resource packs for schools prepared by organisations such as the National Consultative Committee on Anti-Racism and Interculturalism; a video for second level schools highlighting excerpts from the "Mono" television programme; materials and training for teachers through funding the work of Integrate Ireland Language Training and other bodies; development in progress by the NCCA of guidelines for primary and post-primary teachers on how the existing curriculum can be mediated and adapted to reflect the emergence of an expanding multi-cultural society — the primary guidelines will be published in May and the post-primary guidelines are expected to be ready by the end of the year; supports provided by the Reception and Integration Agency to assist in the integration of refugees and asylum seekers into schools; and expanding provision for language and literacy tuition for adults for whom English is not the mother tongue through the VEC literacy services.

In the current school year, 393 language support teacher posts have been sanctioned at primary level and 202.78 wholetime equivalent teaching posts have been allocated to post-primary schools to support the needs of pupils for whom English is not the mother tongue. The new curricula at primary and post-primary levels provide ample opportunity to extend students' awareness of the wider world and to learn about the lives and histories of people in other countries and of their contributions to art and science. In particular, the social personal and health education programmes at primary and post-primary levels are designed to prepare students for participatory citizenship and to develop the skills of critical appraisal and decision making based on human rights and social responsibilities. They also promote a respect for human dignity, tolerance for the values and beliefs of others and a celebration of diversity.

Garda Operations.

Tom Hayes

Question:

131 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has discussed with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law the reported entry of gardaí into classrooms to seize children for deportation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12935/05]

Emmet Stagg

Question:

151 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the serious concern expressed by teachers at a number of incidents in which gardaí are reported to have entered school premises in search of pupils who were the subject of deportation orders; if she has had a response to representations she made to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform on this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13026/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 131 and 151 together.

I have indicated my concern to the Minister, Deputy McDowell, that in applying the immigration laws the Garda authorities should have regard to the sensitivities of the school environment, particularly where children are involved. The Minister has already informed the House in a written reply to a parliamentary question on 12 April 2005 that he had received correspondence from school authorities about the removal of non-national children from school premises. He also indicated that because a complaint had been made to the Garda complaints board, he was precluded from commenting further on the issue at that time.

Institutes of Technology.

Denis Naughten

Question:

132 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if she intends to transfer funding responsibility for the institutes of technology sector away from her Department to an independent funding authority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12970/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Government recently approved the early drafting of legislation to transfer responsibility for the daily management of the institutes of technology sector from the Department of Education and Science to a reconstituted Higher Education Authority. My Department is preparing amending legislation to give effect to the Government decision.

Question No. 133 answered with QuestionNo. 69.

Teacher Training.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

134 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science if she intends to bring the Irish language entry requirements for primary teaching courses into line with those for English and mathematics; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12965/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department specifies the minimum academic requirements for entry to primary teacher training courses provided in the colleges of education. As part of these requirements, all candidates, including school leavers, mature students and university graduates, must have a minimum of a grade C at higher level in Irish in the leaving certificate or an approved equivalent. This requirement embodies both the written and oral element of a student's proficiency in Irish. My Department considers it to be the minimum standard in Irish necessary for students entering a teacher training course which will equip them to teach Irish to pupils at all levels in primary schools. I have no plans to change the entry requirements to primary teacher training courses at present. I will, however, continue to keep the position under review.

Educational Welfare Service.

John Perry

Question:

135 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science the average number of cases allocated to each educational welfare officer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12934/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Education (Welfare) Act 2000 established the National Educational Welfare Board as the single national body with responsibility for school attendance. The Act provides a comprehensive framework promoting regular school attendance and tackling the problems of absenteeism and early school leaving. The general functions of the board are to ensure that each child attends a recognised school or otherwise receives a certain minimum education.

To discharge its responsibilities, the board is developing a nationwide service that is accessible to schools, parents or guardians and others concerned with the welfare of young people. For this purpose, educational welfare officers, EWOs, are being appointed and deployed throughout the country to provide a welfare focused service to support regular school attendance and discharge the board's functions locally. The service is developing on a continuing basis and the board received sanction in late 2004 from my Department to recruit an additional ten educational welfare officers. This brings its total authorised staffing complement to 94, comprising 16 headquarters and support staff, five regional managers, 11 senior educational welfare officers and 62 educational welfare officers.

There are 48 educational welfare officers and 11 senior educational welfare officers serving with the board. I understand the board is in the process of making appointments which will bring the number of service delivery staff to its authorised complement. When in place, these staff will enable the board to further roll out its services at local level around the country.

Five regional teams have been established by the board with bases in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford and staff are deployed in areas of greatest disadvantage and in areas designated under the Government's RAPID programme. Thirteen towns with significant school going populations, 12 of which are designated under the Government's RAPID programme, also now have an educational welfare officer allocated to them. In addition, the board follows up on urgent cases nationally where children are not receiving an education. The budget which has been allocated to the NEWB for 2005 is €7.8 million, an increase of €1.3 million or 20% on the 2004 allocation.

The National Educational Welfare Board has indicated to my Department that the average caseload of each educational welfare officer as at end February 2005 was 176.

Schools Building Projects.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

136 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of a new building at a school (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12818/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The project at the school to which the Deputy refers has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria, which was revised following consultation with the education partners. The proposed project at the school referred to will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2005-2009.

Question No. 137 answered with QuestionNo. 75.

Health and Safety Inspections.

Joe Costello

Question:

138 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools at primary level and secondary level inspected by the Health and Safety Authority in each of the past five years; the number of cases in which adverse findings were made by the inspectors; the steps she is taking to ensure that all schools are brought up to an acceptable level and that such inspections should no longer be required; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13003/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989, it is the responsibility of school management authorities to have a safety statement in place in their schools. Schools are obliged to identify possible hazards, assess the risks to health and safety and to put appropriate safeguards in place.

It is open to school management authorities or individuals to make direct contact with the Health and Safety Authority on matters of concern to them and the Department would not necessarily be aware of such communications. Where they are issued, notifications from the Health and Safety Authority are sent to the management authorities of schools in the first instance. In practical terms, individual school authorities are best placed to assess the detail of their own health and safety requirements.

Provision is built into the school building programme to enable schools address urgent health and safety problems. Primary schools are given an annual allocation, currently amounting to €3,809 plus €12.70 per pupil, under the grant scheme for minor works which can be used entirely at the discretion of school management to address basic health and safety issues relating to school infrastructure. In addition, the summer works scheme was introduced during 2004 which provided capital grants for improvement works at primary and post-primary schools. A total of 457 schools were approved for funding under this scheme in 2004. More than 580 schools have been approved for funding under the 2005 summer works scheme.

My Department also sets aside a contingency sum each year to deal with emergency works in primary and post-primary schools, including health and safety works. Urgently required health and safety works relating to asbestos removal, radon mitigation or dust extraction may be grant aided under the remediation programmes operated by the school building section of my Department.

Academic Accreditation.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

139 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the position with regard to academic accreditation for long-term volunteers in social and paramedical work being advanced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11397/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I am aware of the recent Oireachtas joint committee report on volunteers and volunteering in Ireland which recommends that academic accreditation for long-term volunteers in social and paramedical work should be advanced.

In keeping with the terms of the Qualifications (Education and Training) Act 1999, the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland, NQAI, and the Further and Higher Education and Training Awards Councils were established in 2001 to develop a single national framework of qualifications and to provide a unified system for the validation of non-university education and training awards at further and higher levels across the education and training sectors. The NQAI has published a framework of qualifications covering all awards in the State from initial schooling and basic education to higher doctorate level. The authority has also published a range of policy documents setting out the principles and operational guidelines for awards under the framework, and providers are obliged under the Act to comply with these criteria to facilitate access, transfer and progression of learners. The new framework is being implemented on a phased basis over the period to 2006.

The policies provide for the development of a national approach to credit which will enable learners to accumulate credits towards awards and provide processes for the recognition of prior learning. In that context, the NQAI has published in November 2004 "Principles and operational guidelines for the implementation of a national approach to credit in Irish higher education and training". These have been adopted and provide a framework for learners to accumulate credits towards awards, including for prior and experiential learning, building on European developments in this area.

The guidelines provide that responsibility for assigning credit values will rest with the education providers and-or awarding bodies in accordance with the framework and such bodies will be required to provide clear information for learners on the arrangements for recognition of prior learning and credit accumulation and transfer. The development by the authority of national principles and operational guidelines on recognition of prior learning is also under way. The issue of recognition of prior learning usually arises in the context of a learner seeking access to a programme, an exemption from studying particular aspects of a programme or recognition for a full award.

In addition, it should be noted that under the Act, the awards councils, FETAC and HETAC, may make awards to persons who apply for such and who, in the opinion of the councils, have achieved the relevant standards for an award. It is thus possible for a learner to achieve an award without having participated in a specific education or training programme. In addition, many universities and third level colleges have arrangements in place in collaboration with business and community or voluntary groups for flexible access and accreditation arrangements to meet the need of particular groups. I would encourage the relevant groups to make contact with a relevant college or awards council.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

140 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will set out a timetable for meeting the commitment on class sizes given in An Agreed Programme for Government within the lifetime of this Administration and put in place the steps needed to ensure the recruitment of the additional teachers required and the provision of the extra classrooms required; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13001/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

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.

Significant improvements have been made in this area in recent years. The average class size at primary level is now 23.9, down from 26.6 in 1996-97. The pupil-teacher ratio, which includes all the teachers in the school including resource teachers, has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 17.44:1 in 2003-04. More than 4,000 additional teachers have been employed in our primary schools since 1997. These additional teaching posts have been used to reduce class sizes to tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for children with special needs.

In line with Government policy, my Department will continue to provide further reductions in the pupil teacher ratio, with priority being given to pupils with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and those in junior classes. Any requirement for additional accommodation arising from the creation of additional teaching posts will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme.

Literacy Levels.

Liam Twomey

Question:

141 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Education and Science the percentage of children who leave primary school with literacy difficulties; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12974/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Department does not collect data on the literacy levels achieved by children leaving the primary system. The nearest points of reference available are the results of a survey of primary school children at the end of fifth class and the results of the OECD programme for international student assessment, PISA. Data currently available for fifth class children relate to the 1998 survey and the PISA survey of 15 year olds, which was conducted in 2003.

In the 1998 survey of fifth class pupils, teachers' ratings indicated that 10.5% of pupils were regarded as having "weak" or "inadequate" levels of reading and 9.2% were regarded as having reading achievement levels at or below third class level. In the 2003 PISA survey, the percentage of Irish students whose performance in reading was at or below level 1, the lowest level of proficiency, was 11%. The corresponding OECD average was 19.1%. Closer examination of this category of low achievement reveals that 2.7% of Irish students performed below level 1 compared with the OECD average of 6.7%. The results of the first cycle of PISA which took place in 2000 displayed similar differences in favour of Ireland.

The consistency between the teachers' ratings of pupils in fifth class and the achievement data from the PISA survey would suggest that the best estimate of the percentage of pupils leaving primary school with literacy difficulties is in the region of 10%. International comparative data, also available from the PISA survey, indicate that this proportion is low by comparison with most OECD countries.

Question No. 142 answered with QuestionNo. 123.

Question No. 143 answered with QuestionNo. 92.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

144 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the serious concern expressed at the recent INTO conference at existing class sizes; if she will take steps to reduce maximum class sizes to 25:1 in mainstream classes, 20:1 in disadvantaged schools and 15:1 in schools in which there is chronic disadvantage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13000/05]

Joe Costello

Question:

147 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that average primary class size here is now the second largest in the EU; the steps she intends to take to deal with this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13002/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 144 and 147 together.

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.

Significant improvements have been made in this area in recent years. The average class size at primary level is now 23.9, down from 26.6 in 1996-97. The pupil teacher ratio, which includes all the teachers in the school including resource teachers, has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 17.44:1 in 2003-04. More than 4,000 additional teachers have been employed in our primary schools since 1997. These additional teaching posts have been used to reduce class sizes, to tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for children with special needs.

Significantly smaller class sizes have been introduced in disadvantaged schools involved in the Giving Children an Even Break and Breaking the Cycle programmes, with approximately 47,700 pupils in 243 participating schools availing of reduced class sizes of either 15 or 20 pupils per class.

The new policy framework for tackling educational disadvantage that I will publish shortly will provide for a new standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and will put in place a new integrated programme of supports that will bring together and build upon existing policy interventions and initiatives for schools and school communities with a concentrated level of disadvantage.

Teaching Qualifications.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

145 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether the time allocated to physical education on teacher training courses should be increased; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12948/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Physical education is included in the programme of pre-service education for all students in each college of education. A number of students also take additional elective courses in various aspects of physical education, such as aquatics and games. All college of education graduates are, therefore, fully qualified to teach the physical education curriculum in primary schools.

I am satisfied that the training programme for physical education in the colleges of education is sufficient and appropriate to meet the training needs of student teachers. The primary curriculum support programme, PCSP, is implementing the new curriculum in physical education. Fifty percent of the roll-out is being covered in the current year and the remaining 50% will be covered in the 2005-06 year. This process upskills teachers in the area of physical education and builds upon their pre-service training in this area.

The issue of the number of hours spent on physical education in pre-service education is, however, in the first instance a matter for the mangement authorities of the individual colleges of education. It is the management authorities of the individual colleges of education who are responsible for the delivery of physical education programmes to their students. I will continue to keep teacher training under review and this includes subject matter and individual course content and the importance of the individual components.

School Curriculum.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

146 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether a complete and thorough examination of the teaching of Irish at primary and secondary school should take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12964/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The recent report of the Irish Language Commissioner highlighted the fact that despite appreciable time devoted to Irish in the school system, many students emerge from primary and post-primary education without achieving a reasonable command of the language. Particular concerns were raised about students' command of the spoken language. While I accept that the standard of oral Irish in particular of many of our young people is not as it should be, it is important to note that significant efforts have been made by my Department in recent years to improve standards in the teaching and learning of Irish in our schools.

The revised Irish language programme at primary level places a strong emphasis on oral Irish. This programme, implemented in all schools since September 2003 and supported by extensive inservice training by the primary curriculum support programme, should bring significant improvement to the standard of spoken Irish over time. This development at primary level complemented similar curricular changes at second level where syllabus reform is ongoing.

Significant improvements are being made in regard to 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. Funding has been provided to the comhairle to support this task and this is an area that will need further work.

Marino Institute of Education now provides Irish courses at different levels for teachers and an enhanced range of supports for those studying for the scrúdú le haghaidh cáilíochta sa Ghaeilge has been put in place. Evaluations by my Department's inspectorate of the teaching and learning of Irish in our schools provide useful analysis to underpin future policy making in this area.

The inspectorate, in its 2002 publication, 50 School Reports — What Inspectors Say, has reported that the teaching of Irish is good in the majority of primary schools with the strongest aspects being the teaching of reading, poetry and writing. However, oral language attainment is generally poor despite considerable time being devoted to this aspect of Irish. This resonates with a view expressed by the Coimisinéir Teanga that insufficient attention is given to the use of Irish as a medium of communication in lessons taught. The Coimisinéir Teanga has pointed to other issues which I will consider in the context of developing ongoing policy responses.

At post-primary level, subject inspection reports indicate that inspectors regularly observe a good standard in the teaching and learning of Irish and that students demonstrate a good knowledge of texts being studied. However, there is concern that Irish is not used as the language of instruction in many classes, that Irish is taught though English in a significant number of classrooms and that the level of exemptions from Irish is too high. My Department is engaged in a number of evaluation activities relating to the teaching and learning of Irish. These include a focused evaluation of Irish in 45 primary schools and an evaluation of the teaching and learning of Irish in the junior cycle in 75 post-primary schools. Both of these inspections will be completed in 2005 and reports will be published subsequently.

A report on standards of Irish in sixth class in primary schools is being prepared by Dr. John Harris and will be finalised later in 2005. This report will look at changes in pupil achievement levels between the years 1985 and 2003. Also, at the request of my Department, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, is carrying out a review of languages in the post-primary curriculum. This will include Irish. I am confident that the above reports will both inform us of good practice within the system and point to areas requiring improvement.

The inspectorate of my Department, 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 regarding areas where further improvements could be made. The Coimisinéir Teanga, along with other interest groups, contributed to that process. I have also recently met with An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta to discuss further improvements that could be made to support schools in improving the teaching and learning of Irish and to promote high quality education through the medium of Irish.

It is important to note that the issue of promoting the Irish language is not one that can be advanced by schools alone. Societal attitudes to the Irish language certainly impact on students' desire to learn it. This Government has demonstrated a clear commitment to promoting our national language. It is hoped that the continuing initiatives in education along with the increased emphasis on the use of Irish in the Official Languages Act, will in time create a positive climate whereby students will realise the value of learning our native language and, as a consequence, language competence will prosper.

Question No. 147 answered with QuestionNo. 144.

Bullying in Schools.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

148 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science the initiatives that she is taking to tackle bullying at primary and secondary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12944/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I am acutely aware of the issue of bullying in schools and my Department has in place a multifaceted strategy to tackle the issue. The education of students in both primary and post-primary schools on anti-bullying behaviour is a central part of the social, personal and health education, SPHE, curriculum. SPHE is now a compulsory subject both at primary level and in the junior cycle of post-primary schools. The SPHE curriculum provides for the development of personal and social skills, including self awareness, respect for others, self esteem and communication skills, all of which are important elements in addressing the issue of bullying.

In primary education, the issue of bullying is addressed in the SPHE curriculum in the strand "Myself and Others" from infant classes onwards. In second level education, the issue of bullying is addressed from first year onwards in the SPHE curriculum at junior cycle, in the module on "Belonging and Integrating".

My Department, in its Guidelines on Countering Bullying Behaviour in Schools, has provided a national framework within which individual school management authorities may meet their responsibilities for implementing effective school-based policies to counter bullying. These guidelines were drawn up following consultation with representatives of school management, teachers and parents and are sufficiently flexible to allow each school authority to adapt them to suit the particular needs of the school. Each school is required to have in place a policy which includes specific measures to deal with bullying behaviour within the framework of an overall school code of behaviour and discipline. Such a code, properly devised and implemented, can be the most influential measure in countering bullying behaviour in schools.

The school development planning initiative plays an important role in supporting schools to raise awareness of the need for anti-bullying measures. In addition, my Department funds a number of support services and pilot initiatives which provide direct assistance to schools in dealing with the issue of bullying.

Physical Education Facilities.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

149 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to ensure that children have access to play and physical education facilities in inclement weather conditions; if there is a timeframe in which her Department will ensure that all schools have such facilities, particularly in view of their importance in combating childhood obesity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13005/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Many primary schools have a general purposes room for play and PE facilities during inclement weather. In addition, practically all schools have play areas which are utilised for teaching different aspects of the physical education programme. A similar situation with sports halls and outdoor facilities applies at second level. Many schools have the use of adjacent local facilities, including public parks, playing fields and swimming pools.

The provision of multi-purpose space for primary schools will continue to be considered within the design brief for new schools and-or renovation and extension of school buildings. This will also be the case for PE facilities at second level. This will be done in the context of available resources and the published criteria for prioritising school building projects.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

150 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science when she intends to finalise the institutions to be added to the list under the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13008/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Section 4 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002 enables additional institutions, in which children were placed and resident and in respect of which a public body had a regulatory or inspection function, to be added to the Schedule to the Act. Since the enactment of the legislation, my Department has received correspondence from both individuals and survivor groups identifying a number of additional institutions that may be eligible for inclusion in the Schedule. Accordingly, consultations have taken place between my Department and other Departments which may have provided a regulatory function in the operation of these facilities to ascertain the case for their inclusion under the Act.

While inquiries have not yet been completed in respect of all institutions, I signed an order on 9 November 2004 which provided for the inclusion of 13 additional institutions in the Schedule. Further consultations are taking place about a number of institutions and I will consider the position of these institutions when this process has been completed.

Question No. 151 answered with QuestionNo. 131.

Question No. 152 answered with QuestionNo. 92.

Northern Ireland Issues.

Finian McGrath

Question:

153 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Taoiseach the position regarding the case of Mr. Pat Finucane; and if the maximum support will be given to their family. [12617/05]

The Taoiseach

At my recent meeting with Prime Minister Blair, I again raised the question of a public inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane. We want to see the standard agreed at Weston Park and set by Judge Cory adhered to. While Prime Minister Blair has been very clear in his discussions and correspondence with me that this is also the British Government's intention, we continue to share the concern of the Finucane family that the new Inquiries Act, under which the British intend to have the Finucane case investigated, will not meet these standards. The Finucane case was also discussed with President Bush during my recent visit to Washington. The family has our full and continuing support in their tireless efforts over so many years to achieve the full truth in this deeply disturbing case and officials remain in close contact with the family.

Dublin-Monaghan Bombings.

Finian McGrath

Question:

154 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Taoiseach the position regarding the case of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings 1974; if persons (details supplied) will receive the maximum assistance and co-operation from all Departments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12618/05]

The Taoiseach

The Oireachtas joint committee which examined the Barron report into the 1974 bombings last year recommended the establishment of a commission of inquiry to examine matters relevant to this jurisdiction, including specific aspects of the Garda investigation at the time and missing documentation. The Government has decided to proceed with the establishment of a commission in accordance with that recommendation. The Government is also considering the other recommendations of the committee and will follow up, as appropriate, including in discussions with the British Government.

With regard to the representatives of victims and survivors of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings, we have always been concerned to provide as much assistance and co-operation as is possible and appropriate. My Department remains in close contact with victims and their representatives. The persons mentioned by the Deputy are taking legal action against the Taoiseach, Ireland and the Attorney General. A defence has been entered and it would be inappropriate to comment further.

Departmental Staff.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

155 Mr. O’Connor asked the Taoiseach the arrangements for maternity leave within the public bodies under the aegis of his Department and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12743/05]

The Taoiseach

The arrangements for maternity leave within the public bodies under the aegis of my Department are the arrangements specified in the Maternity Protection Act 1994 (Extension of Periods of Leave) Order 2001, the Adoptive Leave Act 1995 (Extension of Periods of Leave) Order 2001 and the Maternity Protection (Amendment) Act 2004 and in the Department of Finance circular on maternity leave 35/95 and circular 09/01 which extends this leave.

Public Capital Programme.

Enda Kenny

Question:

156 Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach the number of public servants in his Department who are employed full time on the assessment, procurement, project management and delivery of infrastructure projects covered by the public capital programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12874/05]

Enda Kenny

Question:

157 Mr. Kenny asked the Taoiseach if he will provide a broad description of each capital project considered by his Department over the past five years; when each project was first considered; when each project will be procured; when each will be completed; if each project will be part financed by user charges; the number of public servants employed in the delivery of each project; the names of the consultants and advisers used to date in respect of each project; the titles of the consultancy reports carried out or in progress; the expenditure to date on each project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12913/05]

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 156 and 157 together.

There are no staff employed full-time on the assessment, procurement, project management and delivery of infrastructure projects at present, although a number of officials in my Department are involved in considering infrastructure expenditure programmes in the course of the work of interdepartmental groups, such as the cross-departmental team on housing, infrastructure and public private partnerships.

There are two officials from my Department seconded to Sports Campus Ireland Limited. The Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism has responsibility for this project and will provide the detailed information sought in the question. In the case of the millennium fund projects, the supervision and implementation of the awards lay with the sponsoring entity who received the award, that is, council, local authority and so forth. My Department has no capital projects in its Vote this year. However, the capital projects handled within my Department over the past five years are listed below.

Capital Projects
Year — Outturn	Projects	Cost (€000)
2000	Multi Media Developments	28,750
	Sports Campus Ireland	570
	Millennium Celebrations	6,275
2001	Millennium Celebrations	9,077
2002	Millennium Celebrations	2,900

Hospitals Building Programme.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

158 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when approval will be given to appoint the design team to a project (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12753/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, established on 1 January 2005, to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for considering new capital proposals or progressing those in the health capital programme. It would, therefore, be a matter for the HSE to consider any proposed development of the type specified, in the context of its overall priorities and funding resources.

Health Services.

Pat Breen

Question:

159 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will meet a deputation from a centre (details supplied) in County Clare to discuss its application for funding for a dementia unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12754/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. S. Power)

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 health services in County Clare. I understand that the HSE mid-western area has arranged a meeting to discuss dementia sevices this week and that the group referred to by the Deputy is to attend.

As Minister of State with responsibility for services for older people, I met this group during my visit to Clare at the end of February. Following the meeting with the HSE mid-western area, a further meeting can be arranged, if required, by contacting my office.

Civil Registration Service.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

160 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her Department intends to increase the amount per application that it is paying to officers who provide the extremely vital service of registration of births, deaths and marriages; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that regardless of the amount of time or correspondence involved the officers are being paid a minimal flat rate; if her Department intends to replace retired officers in rural parts of the country, especially in the north Mayo area; if her Department will commit to a continuance of this vital service, replace retired persons and review the payment system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12755/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The appointment of registrars within the civil registration service is primarily a matter for the Health Service Executive, HSE. With regard to fees, I have no plans to increase the level of fees per registration or the annual allowance payable to registrars.

Nursing Education.

John Perry

Question:

161 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will change a new provision (details supplied) brought in under the Nurses Rules 2004. [12760/05]

John Perry

Question:

162 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will change amendments to the Nurses Rules 2004 (details supplied). [12761/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I propose to take QuestionsNos. 161 and 162 together.

The issues raised by the Deputy are a matter for An Bord Altranais. Regulation of the nursing and midwifery professions, including the setting of requirements and standards in education programmes for registration, is the statutory responsibility of An Bord Altranais. The board is a broadly representative body; the 29 members include 17 elected by nurses who are representative of all the divisions of the register.

In November 2004, An Bord Altranais approved the following amendment to Nurses Rules regarding admission requirements for nurses wishing to train in public health nursing:

Before admission to the programme for education and training leading to registration in the Public Health Nurses Division of the Register, the name of the candidate for the registration must already be entered in the Register of Nurses and the candidate must have two years clinical experience in nursing. Unless the candidate's name is entered in the Midwives Division of the Register, the candidate must complete an An Bord Altranais approved module or unit of study on Maternal and Child Health as part of the programme.

I understand that, in framing this rule change, the board was mindful of recommendation 8.30 of the report of the commission on nursing which recommended dropping the mandatory requirement for a midwifery qualification for those wishing to train as public health nurses. My approval is required under section 26 of the Nurses Act 1985 and these rules were formally approved by me in December 2004 as soon as they were submitted by the board.

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of services at Mayo General Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Nursing Home Subventions.

John McGuinness

Question:

166 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if refunds under the new scheme due to patients in psychiatric care have already been made; if statements regarding the repayment have been issued to the persons concerned or to family members; if statements regarding the private property accounts of patients are given to the patients on a monthly or weekly basis; if these statements are explained to the patients or to family members; if a proper transparent system will be put in place throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12780/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

A special Cabinet sub-committee, comprising the Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, the Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen, the Attorney General, Mr. Brady, and myself has been established to consider the issue of repayment in light of the judgment. Full details of a repayment scheme will be announced as soon as possible and it is the intention to make repayments as automatic as possible.

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, HSE, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under this Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and social services. This includes responsibility for the issue raised by the Deputy and, accordingly, my Department has requsted the HSE to investigate the matter and reply directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Services.

John McGuinness

Question:

167 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if an eye operation will be expedited at Waterford Regional Hospital for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; the reason for the delay in dealing with the matter. [12786/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. As the person referred to by the Deputy resides in County Kilkenny, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to investigate the matter and reply directly to the Deputy.

Tony Gregory

Question:

168 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children further to Question No. 243 of 2 November 2004, and the subsequent meeting arranged with the regional chief executive of the ERHA, the reason for the refusal of treatment on two separate occasions and the refusal to clarify information as requested regarding treatment undertaken in 2002; and if arrangements will be made to correct inaccuracies in the medical records of this case. [12802/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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 functions of the former Eastern Regional Health Authority. Accordingly, my Department has asked the chief officer for the Health Service Executive's eastern regional area to investigate the position with the matters raised by the Deputy and to reply directly to him.

Meetings have already taken place to attempt a resolution of this case. A further meeting is due to take place today between the individuals concerned and my special adviser.

Health Services.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

173 Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the cost for 2004 of placing persons with dual diagnosis of intellectual disability and a psychiatric condition in institutions outside the country for services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12906/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

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 matter referred to by the Deputy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the executive's national director for primary, community and continuing care to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

174 Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the cost for 2004 of placing persons with dual diagnosis of intellectual disability and a psychiatric condition in unsuitable hospital settings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12908/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

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 matter referred to by the Deputy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the executive's national director for primary, community and continuing care to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

175 Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons with dual diagnosis of intellectual disability and a psychiatric condition who have been placed in institutions outside the country for services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12909/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

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 matter referred to by the Deputy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the executive's national director for primary, community and continuing care to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

176 Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons with dual diagnosis of intellectual disability and a psychiatric condition who have been placed in unsuitable hospital settings in 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12910/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

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 matter referred to by the Deputy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the executive's national director for primary, community and continuing care to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Accident and Emergency Services.

Seamus Kirk

Question:

177 Mr. Kirk asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if it is intended to upgrade and expand accident and emergency services at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12929/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, HSE, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of services at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda. 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.

Hospital Services.

Willie Penrose

Question:

178 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath has had an important operative procedure cancelled on two occasions and will not be seen in the foreseeable future; the further reason this person was deemed unsuitable for the patient treatment scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13069/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. As the person in question resides in County Westmeath, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's midland area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Labour Court Recommendation.

Pat Breen

Question:

179 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children further to Questions Nos. 85 and 101 of 22 March 2005, if the HSE has set up a meeting with the Irish Nurses Organisation to agree arrangements on the way in which the court’s recommendations will be implemented; if she will provide the necessary moneys to honour Labour Court Recommendation No. 18030; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13070/05]

James Breen

Question:

185 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make funding available to pay and honour Labour Court Recommendation No. 18030; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13077/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I propose to take QuestionsNos. 179 and 185 together.

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, HSE 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 person social services. This includes responsibility in relation to the funding of industrial relations settlements involving health service staff.

I understand that negotiations with the Irish Nurses Organisation with regard to arrangements for the payment of students covered by Labour Court Recommendation No. 18030 are ongoing and it is hoped that the matter will be finalised in the near future.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Michael Lowry

Question:

180 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when BreastCheck will be made available to the residents on the mid-western region; the reasons for the delay in rolling out the programme to the region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13071/05]

Michael Lowry

Question:

181 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the BreastCheck programme will be rolled out immediately in the mid-western region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13072/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 180 and 181 together.

The roll-out of the national breast screening programme to the remaining counties is a major priority in the development of cancer services. This will ensure that all women in the relevant age group in every county have access to breast screening and follow up treatment where appropriate.

Design briefs for the BreastCheck static units at the South Infirmary-Victoria Hospital, Cork, and University College Hospital, Galway, have been completed. The advertisement for the appointment of a design team will be placed in the EU Journal shortly. I am confident that the target date of 2007 for the expansion of BreastCheck nationally will be met.

Any woman, irrespective of her age or residence, who has immediate concerns or symptoms should consult her general practitioner who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her area.

Health Services.

Michael Lowry

Question:

182 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive in the mid-western region has contracted any beds from private nursing homes in County Tipperary. [13073/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. S. Power)

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 nursing home care in the Health Service Executive mid-western area. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's mid-western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Nursing Home Charges.

Michael Lowry

Question:

183 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if patients in long-stay care in private nursing homes will be eligible for similar repayments to those in public long-stay care. [13074/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. S. Power)

The Supreme Court judgment of 16 February last related only to charges in public long-stay institutions and publicly contracted beds in private nursing homes. My Department has received counsel's advice on the Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990 and regulations made thereunder. This advice, which is privileged, is being examined in consultation with the Attorney General's office and it would be inappropriate at this stage to comment on the advice.

Hospital Accommodation.

Michael Lowry

Question:

184 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the level of overcrowding in a hospital (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and the measures she has taken to address the overcrowding of the accident and emergency department at the same hospital. [13076/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of services at Nenagh General Hospital. Accordingly my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's mid-western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Question No. 185 answered with QuestionNo. 179.

Medical Cards.

John Perry

Question:

186 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if he will address the concerns raised by a person (details supplied) regarding the medical card guidelines; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13090/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Entitlement to health services in Ireland is primarily based on means. Under the Health Act 1970, determination of eligibility for medical cards is the responsibility of the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board. Other than for persons aged 70 years and over who are automatically entitled to a medical card, medical cards are issued to persons who, in the opinion of the chief executive officer, are unable to provide general practitioner medical and surgical services for themselves and their dependants without undue hardship.

Income guidelines are drawn up by the chief executive officers to assist in the determination of a person's eligibility and these are revised annually by reference to the consumer price index. However, the guidelines are not statutory binding and even though a person's income exceeds the guidelines, a medical card may still be awarded if the chief executive officer considers that his-her medical needs or other circumstances would justify this. It is open to all persons to apply to the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board for health services if they are unable to provide these services for themselves or their dependants without hardship. The Deputy is no doubt aware that a range of income sources are excluded by the health boards when assessing medical card eligibility. Many allowances, such as the carer's allowance, child benefit, domiciliary care allowance, family income supplement and foster care allowance are all disregarded when determining a person's eligibility.

As part of budget 1996, the then Government announced that "persons who have been unemployed for at least one year, who take up paid insurable employment were deemed to meet the criteria for retaining their medical cards for three years". The provision also covers participants on approved schemes applicable to the long-term unemployed, including the back to work allowance, BTWA, community employment, Jobstart, job initiative, the partnership and community group initiative and development courses such as the workplace and vocational training opportunities scheme, VTOS. The purpose of this provision was to remove disincentives to labour force participation by long-term unemployed persons. The retention of medical card eligibility is approved for a period of three years when a person or spouse of a person who has been unemployed for a minimum of one year takes up employment. In this context, time spent on the live register, approved schemes or courses for the long-term unemployed is treated as an unemployed period.

The issue of eligibility was considered in the context of the national health strategy launched by the Government. The strategy outlines a number of measures designed to improve eligibility for health services which the Government has committed itself to introducing over a number of years. Among the measures proposed is an increase in access to medical cards. In addition to the extension of eligibility to all persons aged 70 years and over, the strategy includes a commitment that significant improvements will be made in the income guidelines to increase the number of persons on low incomes who are eligible for a medical card and to give priority to families with children and particularly children with a disability. The extension of the medical card to the over 70s is wholly consistent with Government policy aimed at improving the position of the elderly.

My Department has advised the health board chief executive officers in writing last year that medical card holders should not lose their cards because of increases in social welfare rates announced in the budget. In addition, the CEOs were asked that every effort be made to ensure that both medical card holders and applicants are made fully aware that increases in social welfare payments will not disadvantage them when applying to hold or retain a medical card.

There has been a 7.5% increase on 2004 income guidelines in respect of standard medical cards which came into effect on 1 January 2005 and this increase is expected to allow approximately 30,000 new people to become eligible for medical cards. In addition, the introduction of doctor-visit cards is intended to help to overcome barriers to accessing GP services for many individuals and families who are above the standard medical card income guidelines. The Health Service Executive initially intends to set the income threshold for doctor-visit cards at 25% higher than applies for the standard medical card. It is estimated that this policy initiative will result in approximately 200,000 people becoming eligible for free doctor visits.

Accident and Emergency Services.

Paul McGrath

Question:

187 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of patients who have presented at the accident and emergency department at Tallaght Hospital on each of the past 21 days; and the effect these patients have had on the normal admissions at this hospital. [13133/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I assume that the Deputy is referring to the human resources operational programme 1994-1999 on the vocational training infrastructure, measure — improvement of the quality of training provision of the European Regional Development Fund. The company referred to by the Deputy performed a system-based audit from 1999 to close of programme under Article 3.1(a) of Regulation 2056/97 and 5% verification under Article 3.1(b) of Regulation 2064/97. Article 13 of Regulation 2067/97 states:

Information collected in the course of the controls shall be protected by professional secrecy, in accordance with the relevant provisions of national and community law. It may not be communicated to any persons other than those who, by reason of their duties in the Member States or in the institutions of the Community, are required to have knowledge thereof for the purpose of performing their duties.

Consequently it is not proposed to publish the above report.

Health Services.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

192 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her Department’s guidelines regarding the number of visits a new mother and baby can expect from a public health nurse in their home; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13164/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The maternity and infant care scheme provides an agreed programme of care free of charge to an expectant mother arising out of her pregnancy and to her new born baby for six weeks after birth. All expectant mothers who are ordinarily resident in Ireland are eligible to avail of services under the scheme. Women who choose to avail of these services are under the care of both a general practitioner of their choice and a hospital obstetrician.

After the birth, usually within 48 hours of discharge from hospital, a public health nurse visits the mother and child at their home. The scheme also provides for two designated post-natal visits to the general practitioner. The purpose of these visits is to conduct developmental checks on the baby and a post-natal examination of the mother. The first visit is within two weeks of the birth and the second is at six weeks.

The Best Health for Children report provides for a new core surveillance programme for all children in the 0-12 age group. It was published in late 1999 and covers both pre-school developmental examinations as well as the school health service. The programme recommends an examination at birth and a visit by the public health nurse within 48 hours of discharge from hospital. It also recommends a developmental check at six to eight weeks, three months, seven to nine months and 18 to 24 months.

The former Health Boards Executive has since established a programme of action for children, PAC, to facilitate a co-ordinated and integrated approach to the delivery of a range of child health projects. The PAC has undertaken a review of the surveillance recommendations from Best Health for Children, in the light of emerging evidence. Among the aims of the review are to establish a standardised national core child health screening programme; to review evidence for best practice; and to develop guidelines for screening. Its recommendations for this programme are being considered by the Health Service Executive.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

193 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the cover which has been made available to the patients of the public health nurse at a location (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13165/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, HSE 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 person social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of a public health nursing service. 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.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

194 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the current waiting time for the 12-month development check on children at a location (details supplied) in County Wexford; the action being taken to reduce the waiting time; the nature of the reassurance she will offer parents of young children not receiving this important check; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13166/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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 developmental screening of children. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to investigate the matter raised and reply directly to the Deputy.

Nursing Home Charges.

Services at the Adelaide and Meath Hospital, incorporating the National Children's Hospital, Tallaght, are provided under an arrangement with the executive. My Department has, therefore, requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to examine the issues raised and to reply to the Deputy directly.

Nursing Home Charges.

John Perry

Question:

198 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the measure she has in place to address the situations in which estates of deceased persons have been finalised with regard to the forthcoming legislation on charges for nursing care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13170/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I assume the Deputy is referring to the national repayment scheme in this instance. A special Cabinet sub-committee comprising the Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, the Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen, the Attorney General, Mr. Brady, and myself has been established to consider the issue of repayment in light of the judgment. Full details of a repayment scheme will be announced as soon as possible and it is the intention to make repayments as automatic as possible.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

199 Mr. Crawford asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if forms are available to patients or their relatives to claim back their rights, as decided by the Supreme Court for payments for nursing home charges; if they are not available, when she expects they will be; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13171/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

A national repayment scheme inquiry details form is available on the Health Service Executive, HSE, website, www.hse.ie, which enables persons who believe they are due a repayment to register their interest which the HSE will follow up when the details of the scheme are in place.

A special Cabinet sub-committee comprising the Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, the Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen, the Attorney General, Mr. Brady, and myself has been established to consider the issue of repayment in light of the judgment. Full details of a repayment scheme will be announced as soon as possible and it is the intention to make repayments as automatic as possible.

Any person who considers that they or a family member may be eligible for repayment may register their interest in advance with the Health Service Executive, by writing to the National Refund Scheme, HSE Midland Area, Arden Road, Tullamore, County Offaly; or emailing refundscheme@mailq.hse.ie; or by calling the helpline 1800 777737 during office hours.

Children in Care.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

200 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been brought to the case of a person (details supplied); if she will meet with the family of this person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13195/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of services at Cavan General Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's north eastern area to investigate the matters raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

The number of deaths by suicide in each county in the south east region for the years 1999 to 2003, as requested by the Deputy, are as follows:

County	1999	2000	2001	2002	2003*
Carlow	2	2	8	3	6
Kilkenny	14	17	15	11	11
Tipperary SR	12	11	13	11	12
Waterford	11	12	17	12	8
Wexford	16	23	19	17	23
Total	55	65	72	54	60

*Provisional figures based on year of registration.

Source: Central Statistics Office.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

216 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when funding will be released for a company (details supplied) in County Wexford; the reason for the delay in the funding; the action she will take to speed up the building; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13389/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. T. O’Malley)

221 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the new Health Service Executive has outlined the crisis in Wexford General Hospital since 1 January 2005; if so, when and the action she will take; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13394/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 218 to 221, inclusive, together.

I am aware of the difficulties being experienced at Wexford General Hospital. The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of services at Wexford General Hospital. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to reply directly to the Deputy.

The detailed capital funding programme for hospitals for 2005 is being finalised in the context of the capital investment framework 2005 to 2009. This process is expected to be concluded in the near future and the HSE will then be in a position to progress its capital programme, in line with overall funding resources available in 2005 and beyond. It is my intention to meet members of the Oireachtas from the area once the capital investment framework has been finalised. I will be in touch with the Deputy again on the matter as soon as possible.

General Medical Services Scheme.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

222 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if non-EU and non-EEA doctors are allowed to participate in the general medical scheme here; the conditions that apply to such participation; the number of non-EU doctors recognised as general practitioners by the Medical Council; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13395/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Vacancies for GMS posts are advertised in the national and medical newspapers and applications invited from suitably qualified persons. Applicants, whether from this or another jurisdiction, must satisfy the provisions of EU Directive 93/16/EEC. This directive facilitates the free movement of doctors and the mutual recognition of their diplomas, certificates and other evidence of formal qualifications. It also stipulates the requirement in respect of vocational training for persons seeking to be considered for such posts.

Recent information from the Medical Council indicates that 833 doctors are fully registered under reciprocal agreements with New Zealand, South Africa, Australia — except Tasmania — and Canada — except Saskatchewan — and that there are 2,121 fully registered doctors from non-EU countries such as Pakistan, India, Egypt, Sudan, Nigeria, etc. However, whereas these doctors could technically set up as general practitioners in Ireland, they may not be eligible to hold contracts under the GMS scheme unless they fulfil the qualification criteria as mentioned above. Also, it should be noted that these numbers include doctors currently working in hospitals. Statistics on the ethnicity of the general practitioners are not recorded.

Hospital Services.

Seamus Kirk

Question:

223 Mr. Kirk asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if hospitals record alcohol related admissions; if her Department has statistics available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13418/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Statistics in regard to activity within the mental health services is contained in the Health Research Board publication Activities of Irish Psychiatric Services. It contains data on admissions to psychiatric hospitals by main diagnosis.

The hospital inpatient enquiry, HIPE, system is the principal source of national data on discharges from acute hospitals in Ireland. The HIPE system records the condition chiefly responsible for the patient's admission to hospital for care. Excessive consumption of alcohol can cause a wide variety of medical and psychiatric conditions which can be a reason for admission to hospital. Data to the effect that excessive alcohol consumption is a strong contributory factor in the case of such admissions is not routinely recorded on the HIPE system.

The Deputy may be aware of an alcohol and injuries pilot study which was commissioned by the health promotion unit of the Department of Health and Children and carried out in the Mater Hospital in 2001 by Dr. John Sheehan, consultant in liaison psychiatry. This study has been expanded to include six major hospitals in various locations throughout the country. The data collected during this study is being analysed at present and a report is expected to be published around mid-year.

Hospital Charges.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

224 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Cork who paid maintenance charges at a geriatric type hospital while in continuing care for a period of six months is entitled to a refund of all or part of the charges as they are a medical card holder and an old age pensioner. [13419/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The details of a repayment scheme to address the situation following the Supreme Court decision are currently being finalised and it is only following this that it would be possible to calculate accurately the amount of repayment due to an individual.

The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive which was established on 1 January 2005. Under this Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and social services. This includes responsibility for the issue raised by the Deputy and, accordingly, my Department has requested the HSE to investigate the matter and apply directly to the Deputy.

Flood Relief.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

225 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the ongoing flooding problems upstream from Laraghbyran, Maynooth, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12810/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr Cowen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 226 to 230, inclusive, together.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the relevant statistics are set out in the following table.

Year	Cannabis (kgs)	Cocaine (kgs)	Ecstasy(No. of tablets)	Ecstasy (kgs)	Crack Cocaine (kgs)	Heroin (kgs)
1995	3,214.34	0.01	12,129	3.64		3.95
1996	1,902.1(+460 mls oil)	651.01	1,059	0.32		3.15
1997	615.49	2.99	126	0.01		0.39
1998	335.34	322.33	143	0.04		1.33
1999	2,045.72	27.20	61,119	18.34		1.13
2000	528.67	11.81	201,679	60.51		3.91
2001	13,335.00	0.01	189	0.06	0.001	3.23
2002	6,499.05	19.47	20,030	6.01	0.002	0.25
2003	933.00	38.00	128,117	38.44		15.00
2004	1,306.31	46.88	6,343	1.90		0.17

The National Development Finance Agency, NDFA, was established on 1 January 2003. The role of the NDFA is to advise Departments on the optimum means of financing the cost of capital projects in order to achieve value for money, whether procured through a PPP approach or through traditional procurement. In the case of PPP projects, it also involves advising State authorities on all aspects of financing, refinancing and insurance of such projects. The NDFA does not have a project approval role.

Under my Department's guidelines for the appraisal and management of capital expenditure proposals in the public sector, and under PPP guidelines and circulars, the sponsoring agency is required to seek the advice of the NDFA on all projects above €20 million. The sponsoring agency is also required to seek the advice of the NDFA at the preliminary appraisal stage and in any event no later than before tender documents are finalised. The NDFA role at various stages of projects is carried out as the sponsoring agency continues with its appraisal, planning and procurement of the projects. The level of involvement of the NDFA and the timing and duration thereof vary across projects depending on whether they existed prior to the establishment of the NDFA or whether they are new projects and also on whether, following preliminary appraisal, the PPP option is being explored and developed. As a result, the NDFA's involvement in procurement can range from six months for arranging the loan finance element of a simple project to a number of years for large complex projects. In that context, it is not possible to speak of an average duration of assessment.

The nature and complexity of the project are determining factors in ascertaining the time required to complete it. In addition to project-specific issues, there are a number of external factors, such as archaeology or planning issues or legal challenges, which can influence progress.

I am advised that some 80 projects are currently referred to the NDFA for advice at varying stages of the appraisal and procurement process. Some of these have yet to be deemed "live" as they are pipeline projects or still undergoing assessment or have been delayed as a result of some external factors, and accordingly are not listed in the attached tables. These external factors include delays because of archaeology and legal challenges. I understand the NDFA is awaiting formal instruction from the relevant sponsoring Departments on a number of projects.

I am advised by the NDFA that table 1 represents the current projects, as at 20 April 2005, on which ongoing advice is being provided by the agency. I understand that many of the projects listed are legacy projects and were referred to the NDFA for review and advice at a later stage of the planning and procurement process. The table identifies the type of project and the date the project was referred to the NDFA. For convenience, the projects are grouped under their relevant Department categories.

Table 2 lists the 11 projects on which NDFA advice was provided, and on which the projects have reached financial-contract close. In this regard, one tourism project for Clare County Council on which the NDFA has issued an opinion is expected to reach financial close shortly. Further details, including the value or cost of the various projects, are a matter for the relevant State authorities responsible for procuring the projects.

Table 1: List of Active Projects Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government
	Type of Projects	Referred to NDFA
South Eastern Region Waste (Integrated Waste Management Infrastructure)	Waste	August 2004
Waterford County Council Grouped Towns and Villages Sewerage Scheme	Water	August 2003
Dublin City Council — Dublin Waste to Energy	Waste	May 2003
Wicklow County Council — Greystones Marina	Harbour	August 2003
Wicklow County Council — Bray Marina	Harbour	March 2004
Fingal County Council — Landfill	Waste	December 2003
Dublin City Council — O’Devaney Gardens	Social, Affordable and Private Housing	January 2004
Dublin City Council — Fatima Mansions	Social, Affordable and Private Housing	June 2003
Dublin City Council — Jamestown Road	Affordable Housing	September 2004
Dublin City Council — Infirmary Road	Affordable Housing	September 2004
Dublin City Council — St. Michael’s Estate	Social, Affordable and Private Housing	April 2005
Dublin City Council	East-Link Bridge	February 2004
Sligo Borough Council — Ballinode	Social, Affordable and Private Housing	November 2004
Meath County Council	New HQ	January 2005
Clare County Council	New HQ	December 2004
Cork County Council	Loan Finance (Waste project)	April 2005

Department of Transport
(i) National Roads Authority
N25 Waterford Bypass	Road	April 2003
N3 Cavan to Dublin (Clonee — Kells)	Road	December 2003
N7 Limerick Southern Ring Road Phase 2	Road	Early 2004

(ii) Railway Procurement Agency
Luas	Line extension	February 2005
Integrated ticketing	Integrated Ticketing	March 2004

(iii) CIE
Financing	Rolling Stock	December 2003

Department of Education and Science
Dublin Institute of Technology	Relocation to Grangegorman	June 2003
Cork School of Music	Music School	November 2003
UCD Relocation from Earlsfort Terrace	Possible deal on site	February 2005

Department of Health and Children
Southern Health Board	Community Nursing Units	July 2003
Eastern Regional Health Board	Community Nursing Units	March 2003
Eastern Regional Health Board — Central Mental Hospital	Hospital relocation	July 2003

Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources
Digital Hub	Development of site	November 2003

Office of Public Works
Decentralisation	Office accommodation	January 2004

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform
Courts Service — Criminal Courts Complex	New buildings	March 2003
Courts Service — Programme new court houses	New buildings	February 2005
Prisons Service — Mountjoy Prison relocation	New prison	April 2003

Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism
National Conference Centre	Provision of building	mid 2003
Lansdowne Road — State funding component	Reconstruction	July 2004

Table 2: List of Completed Projects from NDFA perspective
Project	State Authority	Referred to NDFA	Role of NDFA completed
Transport — Roads
Dundalk Western Bypass	National Roads Authority	April 2003	2 February 2004
Kilcock-Kinnegad	National Roads Authority	January 2003	12 March 2003
Rathcormac — Fermoy	National Roads Authority	April 2003	4 June 2004

Transport — Rail
Luas Credit Facility	Railway Procurement Agency	Early 2003	22 September 2003

Housing
Fatima Mansions	Dublin City Council	September 2003	21 June 2004

Local Authority Loans
Kildare County Council (Offices)	Kildare County Council	May 2003	22 June 2004
Cork City Council (Drainage and Offices)	Cork City Council	June 2003	13 April 2004 and 5 October 2004
Cork County Council (Offices)	Cork County Council	April 2003	5 October 2004
North Tipperary County Council (Offices)	North Tipperary County Council	June 2003	5 October 2004
Clare County Council (Tourism Building)	Clare County Council	December 2004	NDFA financial opinion issued 8 March 2005. Contract due to be signed end April 2005

Broadband/Technology
Metropolitan Area Network	Dept. of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources	Mid-2003	June 2004

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

234 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the number of National Development Finance Agency employees employed by the agency and involved in the assessment of capital projects submitted to the agency; their individual areas of specialist expertise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12800/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

The functions of the National Development Finance Agency, NDFA, which was established on 1 January 2003, are performed through the National Treasury Management Agency, NTMA, under section 11(1) of the National Development Finance Agency Act 2002. In common with the other functions performed through the NTMA, the NDFA is staffed by persons who are employees of the NTMA.

The NTMA currently allocates seven employees dedicated exclusively and full-time to the work of the NDFA. These employees have experience and expertise in a number of disciplines including project finance, law, accountancy, economics, corporate finance and risk management. I am advised that, in addition to the full-time employees allocated to the NDFA, other NTMA staff and facilities are used, as is required, from other parts of the NTMA, including its IT, security, legal, financial control, as specialists in real estate, the equity markets and the NTMA's funding and debt management unit.

Liam Aylward

Question:

239 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Finance the progress to date on the application by a community school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny for transfer of a site owned by the OPW to allow the school expand its sporting facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13109/05]

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

The Commissioners of Public Works are currently dealing with legal aspects concerning this property. When these are completed, the intention is to dispose of the property on the open market. The OPW has had no approach in the matter. The appropriate authority through whom such application should be made is the Minister for Education and Science.

Tax Code.

Bernard Allen

Question:

240 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Finance the tax liabilities which an oil rig worker incurs while working outside the country for more than six months in a year. [13250/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the tax liabilities which an oil rig worker incurs while working outside the country for more than six months in a year depend on the individual's personal circumstances. In particular, the following factors will be relevant: the individual's residence position; the source of the individual's income, be it Irish or foreign; the individual's other sources of income, if any; the relieving provisions of any relevant double taxation agreement; and the individual's entitlement to tax credits.

On a general basis, an individual who is regarded as non-resident in the State will be taxable in the State in respect of Irish sourced income and in respect of the profits or gains from any employment exercised, or from any trade or profession carried on in the State, subject to the relieving provisions of any relevant double taxation agreement. On the other hand, an individual who is regarded as resident in the State will be taxable on his or her worldwide income subject to the relieving provisions of any relevant double taxation agreement. An individual will be regarded as resident in the State where he or she is present in the State for 183 days or more in the relevant year or is present in the State for more than 280 days in the relevant year and the previous year.

I am also informed by the Revenue Commissioners that there is specific legislation — section 13 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 — which deals with the charge to income tax in respect of employments relating to exploitation and exploration activities on the Continental Shelf which might also have a bearing on an individual's liability. Section 13 imposes a charge to Irish income tax on any employment income or any profits or gains derived from employments or activities carried out in the State's area of the Continental Shelf by treating such activities as being carried on in the State.

I draw the Deputy's attention to some relevant information published by the Revenue Commissioners which may be useful: information leaflets Res 1 and Res 2 — Working Abroad and Coming to Live in Ireland and the Guide to Moving to Ireland. These are available on the website at www.revenue.ie and I will arrange to have copies forwarded to the Deputy for his information.

Decentralisation Programme.

Joe Callanan

Question:

241 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for Finance the number of the civil servants who have applied for decentralisation and who have selected Ballinasloe as a lower preference than first with regard to the decentralisation process; the number of persons who had Ballinasloe as either their second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth choice. [13320/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

The central applications facility was set up to receive applications from civil and public servants to participate in the decentralisation programme. From the outset, the terms on which the facility operates have been the subject of detailed discussions with the Civil Service unions. Based on these discussions, all applicants were allowed to nominate a total of ten locations to which they would like to transfer, in order of preference. All of the material published and provided to Departments to date refers solely to the first preference choice of applicants. Following a recent agreement with the Civil Service unions on a protocol to govern interdepartmental transfers, Departments have commenced transferring staff on the basis of their first preference choice only.

The agreed protocol provides that when all first preference applications have been processed by way of interdepartmental transfer and shortfalls still exist, those applicants who nominated a location with a shortfall as their second and subsequent preferences will be offered positions. In the interim, details on the number of applicants who have applied for each location as their second to tenth preferences are not available.

Economic and Monetary Union.

Dan Boyle

Question:

242 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Finance his assessment of the planned new system of integrated guidelines and annual reports that would replace the broad economic policy guidelines, as proposed by the European Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13383/05]

When the new decentralisation programme was announced by my predecessor, he appointed a decentralisation implementation group to implement it and drive the process forward. The group's terms of reference include the examination of how decentralisation might enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the public service.

In its report of March 2004, the implementation group recommended that each participating organisation submit an implementation plan addressing all of the business issues which would impact on the organisation during the relocation programme. Subsequently, in its July 2004 report, the group reported that the overall standard of the implementation plans submitted was good and requested that updated versions be produced including appropriate risk mitigation strategies.

The latest versions of the participating organisations' implementation plans are being received at various dates during 2005. In preparing these plans, all organisations have the benefit of detailed information from the central applications facility which was set up to receive applications from civil and public servants to participate in the relocation programme. All organisations now have details of the staff members in each organisation who wish to relocate with the organisation, the names and grades of staff who wish to leave the organisation to relocate with another employer and the names or grades of civil and public servants who wish to transfer into each organisation to participate in the relocation programme.

As assignments and transfers of staff proceed, regular updates on staff assignments are provided to both my Department and the decentralisation implementation group. This information on overall staff movements will provide an ongoing input into the work of the implementation group.

Dan Boyle

Question:

246 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Finance if he continues to maintain that there is absolutely no link between choosing to work in a decentralised location and the probability of being promoted in the civil or public service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13387/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

As I outlined to the House in my answers to similar questions on 3 March 2005, promotion and recruitment are key elements of the Government's decentralisation programme. I refer the Deputy to my earlier reply which set out the general position on this matter.

In accordance with the recommendations of the decentralisation implementation group, recruitment and promotion practices and procedures must be revised to allow Departments and offices to secure sufficient staff to allow them discharge their functions in their new locations. Clearly, where a promotion vacancy arises for a post which is being decentralised as part of the Government's programme, it is entirely reasonable for the employing Department to ask staff accepting that promotion to agree to move with that post.

As I said last month, discussions are continuing between the management and the Civil Service unions with a view to agreeing new promotion and recruitment mechanisms to support implementation of the programme. It would not be appropriate for me to comment in detail on these discussions. However, I will say that the Government wants to reach a reasonable agreement on these issues with the staff unions, that is, an agreement which supports the early and efficient implementation of the decentralisation programme and, at the same time, takes account of the very legitimate desire of staff remaining in Dublin to maintain opportunities for promotion.

Financial Services Regulation.

Dan Boyle

Question:

247 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Finance if he intends to request IFSRA to investigate the continuing rise in personal credit along the lines of the investigation proposed by the Irish League of Credit Unions; if he intends to take action to prevent the debt-income ratio from continuing to rise; if he intends to bring in further regulations to prevent financial institutions from granting excessive personal credit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13388/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am aware of the concerns expressed by a number of commentators on the continued increase in credit growth, particularly to the household sector, and the possible effects of increasing indebtedness upon borrowers.

The growth of credit and the associated increase in indebtedness are a matter for the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland, taking into account its role as a part of the European system of central banks and its functions, as the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority, regarding the prudential supervision of financial institutions and the protection of the consumers of those firms.

As regards the views of the Irish League of Credit Unions, the financial regulator has already drawn attention to the need for consumers to choose the right type of loan for their needs and in particular to consider carefully the long-term effects of consolidating personal debt into existing mortgages. Separately, mortgage lenders were requested to review their practices and to stress test every would-be borrower's ability to meet his credit obligations in the event of more challenging times.

The provision of consumer credit in Ireland is regulated by the Consumer Credit Act 1995, which is administered by the financial regulator. This Act obliges credit providers to include specific information in all credit agreements in order to ensure that a consumer, when making credit decisions, has access to the fullest possible information regarding the agreement being entered into and the impact that servicing a loan will have on the consumer's household budget.

In addition, the Central Bank and the financial regulator have sought to raise the level of awareness of both borrowers and lenders of the importance of prudent borrowing and responsible lending. For example, the financial regulator, with its statutory consumer mandate, has developed a number of specific initiatives to help consumers make informed choices in terms of the financial products they choose, the amount of risk they take on and the cost of financial products. These initiatives have been developed through the framework of the financial regulator's "It's Your Money" campaign and have involved publishing consumer guides on credit products, fact sheets, cost surveys on personal loans, all of which are intended to assist borrowers in making the most appropriate credit decisions given their circumstances.

Tax Code.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

248 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance if a person is liable for full capital gains tax when they compete in the EU early farm retirement scheme having leased their farm to a non-relative family member, lost all entitlements and being prevented from farming in any form, should they decide to sell a building site. [13408/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, under section 598 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, an individual who is 55 years or over may obtain relief from capital gains tax on the sale of his or her qualifying assets.

In a case where the site being sold is part of a farm that was leased under the 1992 or the 2000 EU early retirement from farming scheme, qualifying assets include land which has been leased under the scheme where the land was, for a period of ten years or more prior to such a lease, owned by the individual and used by him or her for the purposes of farming throughout that period. To qualify, the individual must be at least 55 years of age at the time of the disposal. Full relief is available where the proceeds from the disposal do not exceed €500,000. In such a case, no tax is charged on the gains arising. If the proceeds exceed €500,000, marginal relief may apply. It should be noted that this limit is an aggregate limit, that is, the relief is limited to an aggregate consideration of €500,000 for all disposals of qualifying assets made after the individual has reached 55 years of age.

If the site being sold is not part of a farm that was leased under the early retirement from farming scheme, or if the vendor does not otherwise qualify for the relief, capital gains tax is payable on the chargeable gain. The taxpayer in question should contact the Revenue Commissioners if further details are required.

Postal Services.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

249 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if post offices will be supported to expand their banking operations and other public services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12820/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The Government and the 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.

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 business.

There is widespread recognition that the best strategy to sustain the post office network is for An Post to continue adapting to customer needs, with a view to retaining existing customers, while at the same time developing services to attract new customers. This strategy is already being followed with some success.

Harbours and Piers.

James Breen

Question:

250 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will make funding available for the completion of the Doonbeg pier in Clare in order to allow the fishing and sea angling to develop to its full potential; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12768/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Gallagher)

Doonbeg pier is owned by Clare County Council and responsibility for its repair and maintenance rests, in the first instance, with the local authority.

A programme for the funding of small harbours within the overall 2005 fishery harbours development programme is under consideration at present and funding for Doonbeg pier will be considered under this programme, taking into account the amount of Exchequer funding available and overall national priorities.

Alternative Energy Projects.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

251 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the obstacles to the development of community ownership of wind farms as outlined in the Catch the Wind report presented by community groups and the Western Development Commission; and if he plans to establish preferential conditions for community-owned wind farms in any new support mechanisms for wind power. [12811/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

My Department is familiar with the study referred to by the Deputy and has engaged with the Western Development Commission on its content. Each programme operated by my Department to support the construction of new wind powered electricity generating stations to date has divided that support between large scale and small-scale projects. In addition, the most recent competition also included a separate provision for biomass anaerobic digestion to encourage small scale projects within that category.

The small-scale categories operated primarily to support the construction of locally owned or community-based projects. However, the programme exists primarily to encourage environmental protection and the rules cannot be so restrictive as to constitute unfair discrimination in delivering the task within any particular category.

On 7 April last, I announced the outline of a future programme to support the construction of additional renewable energy powered electricity generating plant. The major change signalled was a move away from competitive bidding on price to a fixed price system. A quantitative limit will continue to apply to the amount of plant, which can be supported and, therefore, a competitive element remains.

I have noted the concerns of small-scale producers generally. I appreciate that there may be a problem with how "small-scale" is currently defined and I am conscious that this may require further consideration. However, the future support programme I have outlined will retain a competitive element and I cannot make specific commitments to any particular group of competitors until the detailed rules are published and accessible simultaneously to all prospective applicants.

Sports Funding.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

252 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if grant aid is available from his Department to purchasers of schooner sailing boats between 18 m and 20 m for the provision of pleasure sailing craft. [12858/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Gallagher)

The Department has no funds available to grant aid the purchasers of schooner sailing boats, regardless of length, for the provision of pleasure sailing craft. An Bord Iascaigh Mhara, BIM, provides grant aid towards the introduction of new purpose built and suitable modern second hand vessels where these vessels are exclusively engaged in sea angling and marine tourism-related activities. A mandatory criterion of the BIM scheme is that the vessels must be less than 15 m in length overall. Full details of the fisheries inshore diversification and safety programme are available at www.bim.ie.

Fisheries Protection.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

253 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of submissions which were received on the public consultation phase of the 2005 wild salmon and sea trout commercial tagging system; and when he will decide on and publish the regulations for 2005. [12927/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Gallagher)

In the course of the statutory consultation process on the wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme, which concluded on the 13 April, I received nine submissions. In addition, some 2,600 objections to the proposed quota were received on pre-printed cards, standard form letters and standard form e-mails.

The Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations 2005, S.I. 204 of 2005, were signed into law on 21 April and laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas on the following day. The regulations were published on the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources website on 22 April. Printed copies of the regulations are also available from the Government publications office.

I have considered and weighed all the serious objections received during the consultation period and decided to proceed with the quota proposed in the draft regulation. This figure is in line with the recommendations made to me by the National Salmon Commission.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

254 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the communication he has received from the UK Government regarding Ireland’s current management of the commercial netting of wild salmon; if the Government intends responding to the criticisms raised by the UK environmental agency that Irish drift nets now represent the main form of exploitation of salmon on many English and Welsh rivers; and if the Government has received advice on whether Ireland’s commercial netting practices may be in breach of obligations given in the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation protocols, European Union directives and the UN Law of the Sea Convention regarding the protection of migratory wildlife species. [12928/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Gallagher)

Since my appointment as Minister of State with responsibility for marine matters, I have not received any communication from the UK Government regarding the management of the Irish wild salmon fishery. I am aware, however, of the concerns being expressed abroad that drift netting in the Irish fishery is having an adverse impact on wild Atlantic salmon stocks.

The recent statement issued by the UK Environment Agency has been brought to my attention. The report relies on the findings of a joint Irish-UK scientific working group of scientists from our Marine Institute and the UK Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science, with contributions from the Environment Agency, which has been assessing the recent patterns and levels of exploitation on English and Welsh salmon stocks in the Irish coastal fishery.

The statement contends "the Irish drift net fishery is currently thought to take about 10% of salmon returning to these (English and Welsh) rivers". The report also states "it appears, therefore, that exploitation on salmon from north east England in the Irish fishery is negligible, that exploitation on stocks from north west England and north Wales is currently low, but that levels increase for rivers further south in Wales and in south west and southern England". The report indicates that on the river test all rod caught fish are released and there is no net fishery, so it is in that context that it states that "the Irish fishery is probably the biggest exploiter of this stock."

I am advised that the results of the scientists' work have demonstrated that salmon from parts of England and Wales are exploited in the Irish coastal fishery. However, the report states "the levels of exploitation have varied between stocks from different regions and from year to year, and have also declined following the introduction of new management measures in the Irish fishery since 1997".

The same report recommended that improvement in the riverine environment to address issues of diffuse pollution, siltation, degraded habitat and obstructions to migration is seen as a key component in reversing the downward trend in egg deposition estimates on many UK rivers.

I understand the joint Irish-UK scientific working group's report is finally nearing completion and is expected to be released in 2005. In the absence of this report, it should be noted that the Government has not received any advice nor does it accept the validity of the argument that its salmon management regime does not comply with international legislation or best practice. Furthermore, the Government does not accept that there is any sound or agreed scientific basis for the allegations made that the Irish salmon drift net fishery has an unacceptable impact on salmon stocks either in Ireland or in other European countries.

The Government considers that its management of the Irish home water commercial salmon fishery, which limits the commercial salmon fishing season, confines it to within the six-mile limit and restricts the number of fish being caught, demonstrates a commitment to the conservation of the wild salmon stock, which is in keeping with the spirit and principles of our obligations both as a member of the North Atlantic Salmon Conservation Organisation, NASCO, and under relevant EU legislation and international conventions.

Quantified Risk Assessments.

Martin Ferris

Question:

255 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of pages in the original QRA and the number of appendices supplied to his Department in November 2001 in the matter of the proposed Corrib project. [13055/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The quantified risk assessment, QRA, is an organic document. The QRA, version D, comprised 52 pages plus 12 pages of appendices. The QRA, version E, incorporating Mr. Johnston's recommendations and those of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, comprised 54 pages plus 12 appendices.

Natural Gas Grid.

Martin Ferris

Question:

256 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department’s attention has been drawn to the consequences arising from the pipeline failure of the proposed pipeline at Rossport; and if he will make a statement regarding the safety of residents within a 500 m separation distance of this proposed pipeline, quoting the sources which underpin this statement. [13056/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The Department's attention has been drawn to a number of possible and hypothetical scenarios arising from the proposed pipeline at Rossport, all of which will be taken fully into consideration.

Post Office Network.

Michael Lowry

Question:

257 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the 400 non-computerised post offices will be brought under the ambit of a public service obligation; if An Post will be instructed to computerise these remaining post offices in the post office networks as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13084/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The Government and An Post share the objective of maintaining a viable nationwide post office network through a strategy of maximising the volume of both public and private sector business handled by the network. Notwithstanding the commercial remit of An Post, the Government recognises the social benefits of maintaining the nationwide post office network. Accordingly, An Post development strategies for the network continue to take full account of these social benefits.

With regard to computerisation of non-automated offices, the automated network accounts for over 95% of An Post's counter business. This means that the 1,000 automated offices transact 95% of counter business while 475 non-automated offices undertake 5% of business. This figure illustrates the level of business transacted by individual non-automated offices. The current level of automated coverage is considered by An Post to be extremely comprehensive by any objective standard and this level of coverage makes it difficult to justify on either customer service or economic grounds the extension of automation to all offices, regardless of their location or business volumes.

Automation of the post office network was completed in 1997. Offices are automated today only in very exceptional circumstances, such as when an existing automated office closing and its equipment being transferred to a suitable neighbouring location which transacts significant volumes of welfare business. Nevertheless, I have asked An Post to undertake a pilot project to automate a selected number of non-automated offices to gauge the effect on new business.

Michael Lowry

Question:

258 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will impress upon the Department of Social and Family Affairs the importance of the rural post office network and urge him to maintain the social welfare contact with An Post; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13085/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

An Post is a commercial State company. The payment of social welfare benefits at post offices is a contractual matter between the company and the Department of Social and Family Affairs. The Minister for Social and Family Affairs and I agree that social welfare beneficiaries should continue to have the choice of having their benefits paid through the post office network.

Michael Lowry

Question:

259 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of post offices closed since 1997 in each county; the location of each post office closed since 1997; the number of offices facing closure at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13086/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

There were 1,839 post office outlets in 1997 and today there are 1,455 post offices, 157 postal agencies and 3,000 postpoint outlets giving a total of 4,612 postal outlets in the State.

Telecommunications Services.

John Perry

Question:

260 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when broadband facilities will be installed in Cliffoney, County Sligo; the negotiations that have taken place; the commencement date of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13099/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter, in the first instance, for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation, the independent regulator.

The sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband, so my Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed fibre based broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These metropolitan area networks, MANs, are open access fibre-based trunk networks that will allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs.

Nineteen MANs are now completed, and a further six are under construction, including the Sligo town MAN. Funding for the next phase of the programme will allow the building of MANs in a further 90 towns of 1,500 and above that do not have a satisfactory broadband offering from the sector.

For rural communities and small towns, such as Cliffoney, my Department offers funding under the county and group broadband scheme to enable these communities to become self-sufficient in broadband, in association with the service providers. Full details of the scheme, including application procedures, are on the website www.gbs.gov.ie, and the call for proposals is open until the end of April.

My Department's website, www.broadband.gov.ie, lists nine service providers offering satellite broadband services in Cliffoney, and gives contact details for each company, together with prices for the various service levels on offer.

Community Development Projects.

John Perry

Question:

261 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when approval will be sanctioned for the community development project at Raughley Pier, County Sligo; the negotiations that have taken place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13100/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. Gallagher)

Raughley Pier is owned by Sligo County Council and responsibility for its repair and maintenance rests with the local authority in the first instance. A programme for the funding of small harbours within the overall 2005 fishery harbours development programme is under consideration at present and funding for Raughley Pier will be considered under this programme taking into account the amount of Exchequer funding available and overall national priorities.

Post Office Network.

Dan Neville

Question:

262 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether the local post office is a vital part of the social fabric of the community and whether it is in the national interest to preserve and allow its role to grow; and if he will respond to the Irish Postmasters Union’s concerns about the future of the post office network. [13185/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The Government and the board of An Post are committed to securing a viable and sustainable nationwide post office network as set out in the programme for Government. I believe that the Irish Postmasters Union also shares this commitment and the input of its members into the development of our post office network, in partnership with An Post management, is an essential element of securing the future of the network.

Postal Services.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

263 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if postal delivery staff are required to post unaddressed direct marketing material through letter boxes even if householders have displayed a “no junk mail please” sign or similar on the letter box; if there is any way in which a householder can avoid receiving such mail from An Post; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13240/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

An Post is statutorily obliged, under section 12 of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983, to satisfy all reasonable demands for postal services throughout the State. The public receives a wide variety of mail from a number of sources, much of which could be regarded as unsolicited mail, including unaddressed mail material, which may be delivered by operators besides An Post. Individual post persons have no discretion in regard to the delivery or otherwise of individual items of mail.

Energy Resources.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

264 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the proportions of electricity generated from oil, natural gas, peat, hydro-energy, wind, solar energy and other sources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13428/05]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. N. Dempsey)

Pat Carey

Question:

274 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the possible effects of Ireland’s aid policies under the EU’s new economic partnership agreements with African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. [13080/05]

Pat Carey

Question:

275 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the possible positive changes which the terms of the new economic partnership agreements with African, Caribbean and Pacific countries particularly regarding free trade of intellectual property rights, may have on Irish and EU aid packages involving medications and vaccinations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13081/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 265 and 272 to 275, inclusive, together.

Under EU regulations, the European Commission conducts the negotiations on economic partnership agreements between the European Union and six regional groupings of African, Caribbean and Pacific states on behalf of the member states. The Commission provides the Council with regular updates on the progress of the negotiations. Ireland is following the developments in the economic partnership agreements negotiations process. While Ireland, like the other member states, does not participate in the ongoing economic partnership agreements negotiations, we are satisfied the Commission is discharging its mandate in accordance with the provisions of the Cotonou Agreement and in a manner which is sensitive to the particular concerns of the African, Caribbean and Pacific states.

The economic partnership agreements, which are to enter into force by 1 January 2008, are an integral element of the legally-binding Cotonou Agreement between the African, Caribbean and Pacific states and the European Union.

Economic partnership agreements are primarily instruments for development that will foster the smooth and gradual integration of African, Caribbean and Pacific states into the world economy, with due regard for their own political choices and their own development priorities, thereby promoting their sustainable development and contributing to poverty eradication in the African, Caribbean and Pacific countries. They combine trade and wider development issues in a unified framework, while taking account of the specific economic, social and environmental circumstances of each regional group and its component states. I am satisfied that this approach addresses the particular concern of Ireland and other member states that development and poverty reduction should be the principal objectives of the economic partnership agreements.

I have read with interest the recent UK position paper setting out views on how the commitment to put development at the heart of the economic partnership agreements negotiations can best be delivered. The paper was designed to promote an open discussion on economic partnership agreements issues particularly as the substantive negotiations get under way.

Article 46 of the Cotonou Agreement states that the parties recognise the need to ensure an adequate and effective level of protection of intellectual, industrial and commercial property rights. Under economic partnership agreements the arrangements for intellectual property rights will conform with the provisions of the World Trade Organisation's agreement on trade-related aspects of intellectual property rights.

US Visas.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

266 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs what recent contacts he has had with the United States Government regarding the introduction of legislation to enable 50,000 or so undocumented Irish people in the US to work legally in that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12815/05]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The number of Irish people who may be resident in the United States without the appropriate authorisation is difficult to estimate. I do not know how the Deputy arrived at the figure he cites. While the US authorities estimate that the number may have declined to 3,000 in 2000, many of the organisations working with our emigrants would regard this as a low estimate. No one, however, is in a position to be precise.

The circumstances of undocumented Irish people in the United States are raised on an ongoing basis in our bilateral contacts with US political leaders. Most recently, the issue was raised when the Taoiseach and I met President Bush on St Patrick's Day. During our meeting, the President reaffirmed his commitment to work with Congress on immigration reform. The Taoiseach and I welcomed this commitment and emphasised the importance of addressing the situation in a positive and sympathetic way.

During the St. Patrick's Day period, I also had a detailed meeting on immigration issues with four organisations in the Boston area, including the two main Irish immigration centres there. I commend the role and work of the immigration centres in the United States in particular the support, information and advice they make available to our communities there. Funding by my Department to these organisations increased by 83% last year. The substantial increase in funding which I have secured for emigrant services in 2005 will enable further support to be given to them this year.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 267 to 271, inclusive, together.

In response to a long-standing invitation, I visited South Down, my neighbouring constituency, on 11 April. I fulfilled several engagements with the sitting MP, including a visit to a regeneration project in Castlewellan and a meeting with members of the Northern Ireland Youth Forum in Warrenpoint town hall.

As regards other aspects of the visit raised by the Deputy, it is not the practice to disclose the security arrangements for such visits. The only additional cost to the State was €203.34.

Questions Nos. 272 to 275, inclusive, answered with Question No. 265.

UN Missions.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

276 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the continued non-publication of the results of investigations by the UN interim mission in Kosovo, the NATO-led Kosovo Force and the French and German Governments into their respective failures to protect minority communities during the March 2004 riots in Kosovo; if he will call for the immediate publication of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13226/05]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The outbreak of ethnically-motivated violence in March 2004 was a serious setback to the work of building a multi-ethnic society in Kosovo. In a series of attacks across Kosovo on 17 March, 19 people were killed and widespread damage was caused to homes and other property, most of which were owned by members of the Kosovo Serb community.

I am aware of criticism by Amnesty International on the first anniversary of the violence that the UN Interim Administration in Kosovo, UNMIK, and KFOR, the UN-mandated peacekeeping force in Kosovo, have not admitted responsibility for their failings or made public the results of their investigations. In the aftermath of the violence, the UN Secretary General asked the Norwegian ambassador, Kai Eide, to undertake a comprehensive review of the policies and practices of all actors in Kosovo and to prepare recommendations on the way forward, in accordance with Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999. The UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan submitted Mr. Eide's review to the UN Security Council on 6 August 2004. The Secretary General conveyed his recommendations to the Security Council on 17 November 2004. All of these documents are available on the website of UNMIK.

The Eide review concluded that the international community was taken by surprise by the violence in March and, with UNMIK in the lead, gave an impression of being in disarray and without direction or internal cohesion. The review further concluded that a restructuring of UNMIK was unavoidable, in order to re-energise the mission and bring its various components together in a more organised way. The Secretary General recommended immediate streamlining and realignment, with a comprehensive restructuring of the international presence as a whole to be undertaken in 2005.

KFOR has also carried out internal reviews of the conduct of its operations in Kosovo. For reasons of security — of the members of KFOR and of the local population — it is normal practice that such reviews are not made public. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on the role of other national contingents. However, I pay tribute to the particularly courageous role played by the Irish contingent in KFOR during last year's violence. Some 18 members of the Defence Forces received citations from the commander of KFOR for their actions to protect civilians. There are over 200 members of the Permanent Defence Force serving with the Irish contingent in KFOR. The latter has also carried out internal reviews of the conduct of its operations in Kosovo.

The Government and its partners in the European Union fully support the work of UNMIK and of the special representative of the UN Secretary General in Kosovo, Mr. Soren Jessen-Petersen. The European Union will play its part in the months ahead in the political process aimed at reaching an agreed settlement in Kosovo, based on the creation of a multi-ethnic society in which the rights of all communities are fully protected.

Sports Funding.

Seán Crowe

Question:

277 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism how much State funding has been made available for the building of a proposed stadium in Tallaght; and the position regarding the proposed future and finishing of this project. [13188/05]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

Under the sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, capital grants totalling €2.57 million were allocated over the three years 2000 to 2002 in respect of the Shamrock Rovers stadium in Tallaght. Of this, €2.44 million has been paid out in respect of works certified by invoices to the value of €3.3 million.

Following its refusal in December 2004 to extend the period of planning permission on the site, South Dublin County Council has initiated a series of discussions with interested parties with a view to the repossession of the property. In the event of a satisfactory outcome, South Dublin County Council will consult with my Department on how best to ensure the completion of a sporting facility on the property. I intend to support South Dublin County Council in putting together a financial package that would ensure the completion of the stadium. Discussions on the parameters of any such financial assistance will take place when the council regains ownership of the site.

Work Permits.

John Cregan

Question:

278 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the situation regarding work permit holders who are non-EEA nationals and in regard to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; the length of time the normal restrictions on the issuance of work permits do not apply after a non-EEA national is made redundant; if the ineligible job categories apply only to persons outside the State applying for their first permit; if there is an exemption from the normal restrictions for persons taking cases to the Employment Appeals Tribunal; and if a work permit will be granted to this person. [12836/05]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Martin)

The work permit section of my Department issued a work permit in respect of the above named individual for the period 16 April 2003 to 15 April 2004. No further applications for a work permit have been received.

In circumstances where the employment relationship has recently broken down or where the employee has recently been made redundant, the work permit section will look favourably on an application from another employer. In such instances, the ineligible categories do not apply and the application is processed on its own merits with regard to existing employment and immigration legislation.

Job Losses.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

279 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the serious impact on the local economy of the announcement by a company (details supplied) of the decision to close its call centre with the loss of 100 jobs; if he plans to have discussions with the company on the possibility of saving the jobs; if this is not possible, the steps he intends to take to secure alternative employment for the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12978/05]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Martin)

I am aware of the announcement made by the company in question to close its call centre in Castlebar. The parent company has decided to consolidate its business into one Irish location. It is no longer practical for the company to operate out of two centres in Ireland. All business will be consolidated into the company's operation in Shannon and staff are being offered the option, including a relocation package, of employment in Shannon.

The industrial development agencies are committed to the development of County Mayo. IDA Ireland client companies have made seven site visits to the county since January 2004. Last year, four IDA Ireland supported companies also committed to research and development projects in the county, with a potential spend of approximately €5.5 million. In Castlebar, a new 16-acre modern business and technology park has been fully developed and is being actively promoted by IDA Ireland for new projects. Enterprise Ireland has approved funding support of over €5.8 million and paid over €4.8 million to companies in Mayo in recent years. A further €563,000 has been approved in support for the indigenous sector this year.

The State agencies, including the local county enterprise board, will continue to make every effort to secure alternative employment for the staff affected by the job losses at the particular company. In this regard, I am encouraged by the most recent live register analysis figures released by the Central Statistics Office. The year on year figures for March 2005, as against March 2004, for Castlebar show a decrease of 99 people, down from 964 to 865. For the county as a whole, the figure was 5,297 in March of this year, down from 5,863 in March 2004, a decrease of almost 10%.

Shannon Development.

Pat Breen

Question:

280 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will meet a small delegation as a matter of urgency to discuss the future of Shannon Development and the distribution of its assets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13083/05]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Martin)

Several recent developments will impact on the future role of Shannon Development, the most significant of which are: the proposed relocation of the headquarters of Enterprise Ireland to Shannon as part of the decentralisation programme; the enterprise strategy group recommendation that Shannon Development should disengage from industrial development functions; and the establishment of an independent Shannon Airport Authority.

The new airport authority was incorporated in October 2004. Shannon Development fully supports the decision to establish an independent airport authority which is vital to the economic development of the region. The company has also further agreed on the need to re-focus its activities on the airport with a view to generating business for the airport and that the company's assets should be used to support the airport authority particularly in its early, vulnerable years.

In the light of these developments, the Shannon Development board was asked to devise a new strategy for the company. The board recently submitted a detailed strategy document outlining its vision of the future role of the company and my Department is engaged in a detailed examination of these proposals. The results of this examination will be submitted to me as soon as possible, following which I will engage in any necessary consultations with Shannon Development, my Government colleagues affected by the proposals, together with other interested parties in the region.

Employment Rights Legislation.

John Perry

Question:

281 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will address the concerns raised by a person (details supplied) regarding the employment legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13091/05]

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

The labour inspectorate of my Department is responsible for monitoring certain employment conditions for all categories of workers in Ireland, including immigrant workers. The inspectorate operates without any differentiation with regard to worker nationality as statutory employment rights and protections apply to immigrant workers in exactly the same manner as they do to native Irish workers. Inspectors pursue allegations of worker mistreatment and when evidence of non-compliance with the relevant employment rights legislation is found, the inspectorate seeks redress for the individual or individuals concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated.

The numbers of workplace inspections or visits undertaken by the labour inspectorate in 2004 was 5,160. In addition, the labour inspectorate secured €486,000 arrears of pay on behalf of employees. There are approximately 600 cases under investigation by the labour inspectorate which relate to various alleged breaches of employment rights legislation, including payment of wages, holiday pay and overtime.

Inspections are undertaken in several ways: the labour inspectorate's primary role regards complaint-based inspections, that is, following receipt of a complaint from an employee, employee's representative or other source. In addition, routine inspections are undertaken on an ongoing basis to ensure compliance with employment rights legislation. Enforcement campaigns, targeted at specific sectors also form part of the labour inspectorate's role in enforcing employment rights legislation.

Following my announcement on 12 April there are 31 labour inspector posts. Immediate steps have been taken to source the new inspectors initially from within the existing staff complement of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Accordingly, I expect early appointments. The additional inspectors will strengthen the labour inspectorate's capacity to ensure that workers in these sectors receive their entitlements under employment rights legislation.

Where employers seek work permits in order to employ non-EEA nationals, the Department requires a statement of the main functions of the job, salary or wages, deductions — other than statutory, other benefits and hours to be worked per week. The proposed employer and the proposed employee must sign this statement. Work permits are not granted unless there is evidence of intention to comply with minimum wages legislation. Applications for work permit renewals require confirmation that the stated wages have been paid. Form P60 and other sources are used for this.

Arising from the mid-term review of Sustaining Progress, agreed by all parties in June 2004, the inspectorate was asked to draw up a discussion document for the social partnership process. It did this by identifying 39 key proposals but the document is not prescriptive. It presents the arguments for and against an extensive range of issues impacting on the mandate and associated resourcing of the labour inspectorate and its linked business units. A spectrum of possible models for compliance checking and enforcement have been identified and were presented for discussion. In the absence of appropriate analysis, no particular model can be endorsed. However, the purpose of their inclusion is primarily to stimulate debate and signal that fundamental changes in approach should be considered. Some views have been received from the social partners while others are awaited.

County Enterprise Boards.

John McGuinness

Question:

282 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment why Kilkenny County Enterprise Board is informing clients whose projects have been approved in principle that formal letters cannot issue due to lack of funding from his Department; if this is the case throughout the country; the reason this is so at this time of year; his plans in regard to the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13184/05]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Martin)

Over €30 million has been made available to fund the county and city enterprise boards in 2005 of which €17.714 million will be available for capital expenditure on direct grant aid and soft support measures to micro-enterprises across all 35 boards.

All boards were invited to submit their 2005 budget demands to my Department and following receipt and examination of those submissions 2005 budget allocations have been determined for the 35 boards. All boards have been informed of their individual allocations. Pending the determination of 2005 allocations each board received an interim payment to meet immediate costs.

In determining the 2005 allocations my Department has adopted a systematic approach to ensure the maximum degree of objectivity and equity of treatment. This approach involved the provision of a basic allocation to each board as well as an additional allocation determined by other factors such as unemployment, capacity to spend, existing commitments and regional spread.

The programme budget approved for Kilkenny County Enterprise Board is over 9% higher than the allocation provided in 2004. This increase will enable Kilkenny County Enterprise Board to maximise entrepreneurial development in the micro-enterprise sector throughout the county in 2005.

Industrial Development.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

283 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of site visits which have taken place at a company (details supplied) in County Wexford; the number of visits which went through IDA and Enterprise Ireland; the date the visits took place; the results from each visit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13414/05]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Martin)

IDA Ireland has arranged two site visits from potential overseas investors, one in February 2003 and the other in May 2005. Neither of these site visits resulted in a tenant for the building. A profile of the facility has been circulated to IDA Ireland's overseas offices informing them of its competitive rental rate in comparison to locations like Dublin.

Enterprise Ireland has reported that the demand for factory space in the south east has been very slow over the past three years. The agency has brought three groups to view the facility over in the period late 2003 to early 2004. Groups that EI took to view the space included a call centre operation, which project did not proceed; an engineering firm from Northern Ireland, which project, as far as EI is aware, did not proceed in the Republic of Ireland; and a timber frame company for whose requirements the premises was not suitable.

I have been assured by the development agencies, IDA Ireland which is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment and Enterprise Ireland which is concentrating on indigenous industry, that they are actively marketing the factory to potential investors.

Work Permits.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

284 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will reconsider an appeal in relation to an application for two non-EU work permits; and if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the employer has been unable to use some of his machinery which is now idle as he is unable to secure drivers. [13417/05]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Martin)

Having heard an appeal in this case, the work permits section of my Department issued two work permits to the above named employer.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Phil Hogan

Question:

285 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a decision will be made in respect of an application for the rent allowance for a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12925/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

Rent supplements are provided through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme which is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive. The Dublin and mid Leinster area of the executive has advised that a rent supplement has been awarded in this case backdated to the date of application, 22 March 2005. The first payment of the supplement will issue to the person concerned this week.

Departmental Staff.

Tony Gregory

Question:

286 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs further to Question No. 322 of 19 April 2005, if there is an appeal procedure available for a civil servant who is refused the right to compete for establishment. [13524/05]

Tony Gregory

Question:

304 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs further to Question No. 322 of 19 April 2005, the circumstances whereby a service grade employee in a permanent position may be excluded from competing in a competition for establishment. [13382/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 286 and 304 together.

All service grades, that is, cleaners, service attendants and service officers in my Department are appointed in an unestablished capacity. Competitions are held by the Public Appointments Service from time to time to allow them compete for establishment.

An interdepartmental competition for established appointment to certain positions within the Civil Service was recently advertised. The criteria which a person had to satisfy to be permitted to compete in this competition are set out below.

Candidates must: (1) be serving in an unestablished capacity in one of the grades specified in the governing circular which, in relation to service grades, are head services officer, formerly head messenger, services officer, formerly messenger, services attendant, superintendent of cleaners, supervisor of cleaners, cleaner; (2) have not less than one year's continuous service in the aggregate in one or more of these grades; (3) persons who would have been eligible under (1) and (2) above but for the fact that they were promoted or assigned to other duties were eligible to compete.

In addition, the personnel officer had to be satisfied that the candidates: (a) fulfil the conditions of eligibility specified above; (b) have worked well and been satisfactory in their present duties; (c) have been satisfactory in general conduct; and (d) are suitable from the point of view of health with particular regard to sick leave. In relation to sick leave, the procedures set out in Deptartment of Finance circular 34/76, as amended by circulars 32/91, 33/99 and 17/03, must be followed. If a person does not fulfil all of the above criteria, they are excluded from competing in a competition for establishment.

Appointment to established positions in the Civil Service is carried out under the provisions of the Public Service Management (Recruitment and Appointments) Act 2004. The Act provides that appointments will be made under codes of practice set down by the Commissioners for Public Service Appointments, CPSA. Where a competition is run by the Public Appointments Service or other licence holder, there is provision for appeal under the Act and as set out in the codes of practice.

The appeal procedures provide for the review of a decision, within specified time limits, on any of the issues covered in the code of practice by a person other than the individual who made the decision in question and for further review, if required, by a decision arbitrator.

The relevant codes of practice are available at www.cpsa-online.ie.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Michael Ring

Question:

287 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the schemes which a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will qualify for; and if they will qualify for the free schemes, the living alone scheme, the fuel scheme and any other schemes. [12763/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The person concerned has been awarded the household benefits package with effect from 9 September 2004. Eircom and the ESB will be notified as soon as possible to apply the allowances to his accounts.

He has also been awarded a free lifetime television licence with effect from the expiry date of his current TV licence. If the person concerned has purchased a television licence since 9 September 2004, he can obtain a refund by sending proof of purchase, a receipt or a copy of the licence, to the Free Schemes Section, Pension Services Office, College Road, Sligo.

The fuel allowance scheme is intended to help households who are dependent on long-term social welfare payments and who are unable to provide for their own heating needs. One of the conditions for receipt of this payment is that the claimant must be in receipt of a pension from my department or an equivalent payment from a country covered by EU regulations or a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement.

To qualify for a living alone allowance, a person must satisfy a number of conditions. One of these conditions requires that the applicant be in receipt of a pension from my Department. As the person concerned is not in receipt of a qualifying payment, I regret that he is not eligible to claim the fuel allowance or the living alone allowance.

Community Law Centres.

Finian McGrath

Question:

288 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if urgent assistance will be given to the northside community law centre in its funding crisis (details supplied) in order that it remain open for the community in Coolock, in the form of the maximum grant. [12767/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The northside community law centre is one of a number of organisations which are funded under my Department's scheme of grants for the development and promotion of information and welfare rights. Since its establishment in 1975, the centre has been funded exclusively by State agencies with my Department taking over direct funding in 1995. Annual funding has increased progressively over the years and my Department provided €215,000 to the centre in 2004. In 2005, advance payments totalling €140,000 have been paid and it is costing €35,000 per month to keep the centre open.

I am fully cognisant of the valuable role which a community-based legal advice service such as the northside community law centre can play in the delivery of a comprehensive and cost effective legal advice service for citizens. However, I am satisfied that my Department is not in the long term the most appropriate source of funding for this service having regard to the fact that the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has primary responsibility for funding legal aid services.

Social welfare queries dealt with by the centre in 2004 represented less than 5% of its annual business. I have, therefore, written to my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, regarding future funding of the centre as an integral part of its legal aid services.

In the meantime, my Department will continue to fund the centre for a period. The centre is seeking a substantial increase in funding for 2005 which my Department will not be in a position to meet from its budget. Discussions are continuing with the centre's management on these issues.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Michael Ring

Question:

289 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be assessed for farm assist. [12787/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

There is no record in the Department of an application for farm assist from the person concerned. An application form has been issued to him. On receipt of the completed application form, his entitlement will be considered and the person concerned will be notified of the outcome.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

290 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the criteria which will be used for the respite grant as was raised in the budget for 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12788/05]

Seymour Crawford

Question:

291 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the criteria which will be used for the respite grant, as announced in the budget for 2005, in the Social Welfare Bill; if a person who is giving full-time care but has been refused the carer’s allowance owing to the means test will be eligible for the respite grant; if the application forms are available; the way in which persons may apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12790/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 290 and 291 together.

In the budget for 2005, I announced the extension of the respite care grant scheme to all carers providing full-time care to an older person or a person with a disability, regardless of means and subject to certain qualifying conditions. The respite care grant will continue to be payable to recipients of carer's allowance, carer's benefit, prescribed relative allowance, constant attendance allowance and domiciliary care allowance. Carers who do not qualify for a grant under one of these schemes may now obtain a grant if they and the person for whom they are caring satisfy certain conditions. The grant will be payable to those carers who previously did not qualify for carer's allowance on means grounds provided they satisfy the conditions of the scheme.

Carers must be aged 16 or over; ordinarily resident in the State; caring for the person on a full-time basis for at least six months, which period of care must include the first Thursday in June; living with the person or have a direct system of communication to the person's home. In addition, a carer must not be employed or self-employed for more than ten hours outside the home; getting or entitled to unemployment benefit or unemployment assistance or signing for unemployment credits; living in a hospital, convalescent home or other similar institution. The care recipient must need full-time care and attention, not reside in a hospital convalescent home or other similar institution and not already get full-time care and attention within their own home from another person.

The grant, which is being increased to €1,000, will be payable from 2 June 2005. Application forms and information leaflets will be available from early May. The forms and leaflets will be available throughout my Department's network of local offices and will also be available from citizens' information centres. They may also be requested by phone from my Department or by downloading them from my Department's website.

Any person who fails to satisfy the deciding officer that he or she is genuinely seeking work is not entitled to an unemployment payment. Where a person is dissatisfied with a decision made by a deciding officer, he or she may appeal this decision to the social welfare appeals office.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Seán Crowe

Question:

301 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will consider submitting a supplementary budget to extend the fuel allowance for elderly and other persons in view of the winter conditions being experienced by clients. [13224/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The aim of the national fuel scheme is to assist householders who are in receipt of long-term social welfare or health board payments and who are unable to provide for their extra heating needs during the winter season. A fuel allowance of €9 per week —€12.90 in designated urban smokeless fuel zones — is payable to eligible households for a 29 week period from the end of September to mid-April each year.

Significant increases in recent years in primary social welfare payment rates, such as the old age pension, have improved the income position for people dependent on the social welfare system. These rates are payable throughout the year and are intended to cover basic living costs, including cooking and heating, supplemented where applicable by the fuel allowance during the winter heating season. Many households also qualify for electricity or gas allowances throughout the year under the social welfare household benefits scheme. In addition, a heating supplement may be payable through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme in cases of individual special need.

The 2004-5 winter heating season for fuel allowance purposes, which started on 27 September 2004, ended on 15 April. Any extension of the period over which the scheme applies in subsequent winter seasons would have significant cost implications and would have to be considered in a budget context in the light of other priorities.

Richard Bruton

Question:

302 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of claims for family income supplement which are in payment; and his estimate of the number of families which fail to apply for their entitlement under this scheme. [13237/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

Family income supplement, FIS, was introduced in 1984 to provide income support for employees on low earnings with families and thereby preserve the incentive to remain in employment in circumstances where they might otherwise only be marginally better off than if they were fully reliant on social welfare payments. Weekly payments of FIS are made to families, including one-parent families, with children under 18 or between 18 and 22 if in full-time education, where at least one parent is in full-time remunerative employment of not less than 19 hours per week, or 38 hours per fortnight, where the employment is likely to last at least three months and where the income of the family is less than a prescribed weekly amount.

The number of FIS claims in payment at week ending 8 April 2005 is 15,040. This represents an increase of nearly 25% in just over two years, on the 12,043 recipients at the end of December 2002. Weekly FIS income limits have risen by €84 since 2002, a net increase of €50.40. The guaranteed minimum rate of payment for anyone who qualifies for FIS increased to €20 from January 2004.

It is difficult to estimate the number of families who fail to apply for their entitlements under the family income supplement scheme. However, research undertaken by the Economic and Social Research Institute in 1997, which was based on the results of the living in Ireland survey 1994, suggested that at that time, fewer than one in three of potentially eligible claimants were actually in receipt of the payment. Since those with a higher entitlement are more likely to avail of the scheme, the take-up in expenditure terms was then estimated to be somewhat higher at between 35% and 38% of potential expenditure.

International research on schemes similar to FIS and the ESRI analysis has pointed to misconceptions of the scheme and lack of proper information as factors in low take-up levels. For example, people may not realise that FIS is not taxable and does not affect entitlement to a medical card. My Department undertakes a number of proactive measures to ensure that people are aware of possible entitlement to family income supplement. In this regard, ongoing publicity is provided in a number of ways, which include advising all newly awarded one-parent family payment recipients, advising all employers annually in PRSI mailshots and examining entitlement for all recipients of the back to work scheme. FIS has also been extensively advertised on local and national press and radio, in poster campaigns and targeted mailshots. Information on all social welfare schemes is also available on the Department's website and from any of the Department's local offices.

Social Welfare Code.

Bernard Allen

Question:

303 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the arrangements which exist in order that EU citizens who have worked in France and Germany are able to claim social welfare and old age pension entitlements here; and if social welfare contributions made during a term of employment in France and Germany are reckonable for social welfare and pension purposes here. [13246/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

Under the Treaty of the European Community and the European Economic Area, EEA, agreement, citizens of member states are entitled to travel to other member states to seek employment. As such, EEA nationals are treated in the same way as Irish citizens in respect of applications for social welfare payments and national legislation does not distinguish between nationals and non-nationals.

Question:

308 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Transport if he will take action to try to bring about a positive outcome to discussions held between Iarnród Éireann and farmers in the Laois, Offaly and Kildare areas to facilitate the transport of beet by rail from Portlaoise to Mallow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13608/05]

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

318 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if Iarnród Éireann provides, as promised, a direct Portlaoise-Mallow train service to midland beet growers; and if the service will be provided off peak or at night. [13239/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 307, 308 and 318 together.

The carriage of beet by rail is a commercial matter between Iarnród Éireann and Greencore. Iarnród Éireann has advised me that an agreement has been successfully concluded with Greencore for the carriage of beet by rail to Mallow, in the upcoming season, from Wellington Bridge and Milford. I have been advised that Iarnród Éireann was not requested by Greencore to provide a service from Portlaoise. Iarnród Éireann states that the trains from Milford will operate at night.

Driving Tests.

John McGuinness

Question:

309 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Transport the locations for the off-road driver training and testing centres for HGVs; if Kilkenny is being considered as a location; the list of sites already agreed and those being considered; his policy in this area and the related costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12779/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

My Department is in consultation with the Office of Public Works with a view to providing off-road testing facilities for the testing of drivers of heavy goods vehicles. Such facilities have been provided in Sligo, Limerick and Dundalk. It is the intention, subject to the availability of suitable sites and the efficient and economic delivery of the service, to provide similar facilities at the test centres that currently test drivers of articulated heavy goods vehicles. The following table sets out details of the centres where driving tests for articulated heavy goods vehicles are normally undertaken. These centres are not driver training centres. The cost of securing the sites will vary depending on location and other commercial considerations.

Test centres where drivers of articulated heavy goods vehicles are tested:

Athlone

Castlebar

Cork

Dundalk

Finglas

Galway

Kilkenny

Killarney

Letterkenny

Limerick

Mullingar

Rathgar/Churchtown

Sligo

Tralee

Tullamore

Waterford

Road Network.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

310 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the nature of the advice offered to him by way of the Atkins report with particular reference to the need to increase the height of the port tunnel; if he proposes to follow the advice given in the report in this regard; if not, the reason therefor; if he has studied any alternative proposals to meet the extra height requirement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12807/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

Atkins Consultants were commissioned to review the feasibility, safety implications and cost of raising the height of the Dublin Port tunnel. The options for increasing the height of the tunnel were also considered by the National Roads Authority and by Dublin City Council. In addition, the contractor, NMI Consortium, priced the work that would be involved in increasing the height of the tunnel. It was clear from this work that raising the height of the tunnel would not be justified having regard to safety considerations and additional cost and delay factors and I announced my decision not to increase the height of the tunnel in October 2004. The Atkins report is available on my Department's website at www.transport.ie .

Public Transport.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

311 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if the Naas Road hard shoulder is intended to be one of the pilot cases proposed new bus lanes. [12814/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

It is proposed to provide a quality bus corridor on sections of the hard shoulder of the Naas Road. This is one of the pilot projects for bus lanes on hard shoulders. The tenders for phases two and three were advertised on Monday, 18 April 2005. Phase two is the section between the N7 Kingswood interchange and the Red Cow and phase three is the section between Robinhood Road and Long Mile Road.

Works are expected to commence on site in July-August 2005 with a completion date of March 2006.

Great Southern Hotels Group.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

312 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport his plans on foot of discussions at the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Transport on 13 April 2005 for the Great Southern Hotels Group; the position regarding the many members of staff employed in this group; and the plans he has to secure and safeguard a secure future for this hotel group and its staff. [13082/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The quality bus network project office has prepared a scheme for Pearse Street. Works are planned for this year on this scheme with completion expected in 2006. I am aware also that Dublin City Council has examined proposals for contra-flow bus lanes on the quays. The proposal was considered unfeasible for several reasons, including the contra-flow would introduce complication and inefficiency into signal operation; the quays are two lanes wide in several locations and a contra-flow bus lane would reduce the capacity for general traffic to one lane; taxis may not use a contra-flow bus lane and would be severely affected.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

316 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he has satisfied himself that the queueing arrangements in place in Pearse Street for Dublin Bus are sufficiently safe from a road safety perspective. [13230/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The power to determine the location of bus stops is vested in the Garda Commissioner under section 85 of the Road Traffic Act 1961. I understand the Garda consults both the local authority and bus service provider before issuing a direction under section 85. I have no function in this matter.

State Airports.

Michael Noonan

Question:

317 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Transport his policy position on the dual gateway status of Shannon Airport; if his attention has been drawn to the widespread concern in the mid-west region at the prospect of change; if, in negotiating any change in the position, a lengthy transition period will be allowed to Shannon Airport before services on the north Atlantic are completely liberalised; the present state of the negotiations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13231/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

Negotiations between the European Commission and the US authorities on an EU-US open aviation area are paused following the failure to reach agreement in June 2004. European transport Commissioner Barrot reported to the April meeting of EU Transport Ministers on his recent meetings in Washington with US Secretary for Transport Mineta and on the continuing efforts of US and EU officials to identify a basis on which formal negotiations can recommence. Commissioner Barrot will give a further report on progress to the June European Transport Council.

I have had meetings with all of the Irish stakeholders to ensure that I am familiar with their views. Increased access to US destinations under an open skies agreement would provide significant benefits to Irish tourism, trade economic growth and aviation.

Expanding scheduled services across the Atlantic is of great importance to the growth of Irish tourism and Irish airlines. Under the existing arrangements Irish airlines are restricted to serving five cities in the US. It is my understanding that Aer Lingus has been approached by airports in a number of other US cities in an attempt to encourage the airline to operate services to these airports. US carriers are also likely to offer a wider range of services to Ireland if the present restrictions are removed.

Whatever new arrangements might be agreed, I am clear that Shannon remains an attractive destination for transatlantic services, particularly from the east coast of the US. Any change in Ireland-US arrangements will open up new destinations in the US for Irish airlines, and this presents new opportunities for Shannon. Clarity on the open skies issue would be very helpful to the new board of Shannon Airport in its business planning process. I am convinced that Shannon, with the right cost base for the airport and with the proper competitive environment, can maintain and grow its transatlantic business.

Question No. 318 answered with QuestionNo. 307.

Road Network.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

319 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the total amounts spent by his Department on roads and public transport respectively for each year between 1995 and 2004. [13336/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

Expenditure by my Department on public transport capital projects in the period 1995 to 2004 is outlined in the table below.

Year	Public Transport Capital Expenditure — million
1995	Nil
1996	4.618
1997	17.426
1998	21.35
1999	197.712
2000	281.75
2001	378.316
2002	425.782
2003	479.122
2004	437.912
Total	2,243.988

The allocation of funding in respect of national roads improvement projects to local authorities is a matter for the National Roads Authority, NRA, under section 19(f) of the Roads Act 1993.

In the period 1995 to 2004 capital expenditure on national road infrastructure is outlined in the table below.

Year	Improvements — million
1995	242.600
1996	256.580
1997	294.427
1998	334.393
1999	500.162
2000	622.171
2001	908.238
2002	1,083.499
2003	1,169.424
2004	1,178.959
Total	6,590.453

Benchmarking Awards.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

320 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason general operatives employed by one of the North-South implementation bodies (details supplied) are awaiting benchmarking payments since 2001; the reason for this delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13261/05]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

The Southern-based craft and industrial staff in the North-South implementation body referred to by the Deputy are linked for pay purposes to State industrial employees. As part of the terms of Sustaining Progress and its associated pay agreements, the staff in question were granted an award, which is to be paid in instalments, subject to the agreement and implementation of an appropriate modernisation plan.

I understand that, owing to the negotiations involved, no industrial State employee received the first phase of the award earlier than 2004. Agreement on the modernisation plan of the North-South implementation body in question was finalised in December 2004 when the first phase of the award was paid and backdated to December 2001. Subsequent phases of the award are being paid in line with the provisions contained in Sustaining Progress.

Dormant Accounts Fund.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

321 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason a centre (details supplied) in County Donegal which applied for dormant accounts funding has only now, ten months after its application, been informed that it is an ineligible project; and if he will make a statement on the way in which this project was ineligible and the way in which this long delay will be addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13102/05]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

Decisions on the disbursement of funds from dormant accounts moneys are a matter for the Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board, an independent body established under the Dormant Accounts Acts. The board has engaged Area Development Management Limited, ADM, to administer the initial round of funding on its behalf, which involves the disbursement of up to €60 million from the fund.

An application from the group concerned was received by ADM and evaluated against the criteria set out in the published guidelines. I understand that the board decided not to approve the application and the group concerned was advised of the board's decision on 8 April 2005. The group can obtain further information regarding the reasons the application was not approved and can avail of the opportunity to seek a review of the decision by contacting ADM.

I have no direct role in relation to the board's decisions except where the board decides to approve grants in excess of €300,000. In such cases my consent is required before any disbursement can be made.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

322 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason a centre (details supplied) in County Donegal which applied for dormant accounts funding has only now, ten months after its application, been informed that it is an ineligible project; and if he will make a statement on the way in which this project was ineligible and the way in which this long delay will be addressed. [13103/05]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

Decisions on the disbursement of funds from dormant accounts moneys are currently a matter for the Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board, an independent body established under the Dormant Accounts Acts. The board has engaged Area Development Management Limited, ADM, to administer the initial round of funding on its behalf, which involves the disbursement of up to €60 million from the fund.

An application from the group concerned was received by ADM and evaluated against the criteria set out in the published guidelines. I understand that the board decided not to approve the application and the group concerned was advised of the board's decision on 15 April 2005. The group can obtain further information regarding the reasons the application was not approved and can avail of the opportunity to seek a review of the decision by contacting ADM.

I have no direct role in relation to the board's decisions except where the board decides to approve grants in excess of €300,000. In such cases my consent is required before any disbursement can be made.

Community Development.

Beverley Flynn

Question:

323 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if funding is available from his Department for a community centre (details supplied) in County Mayo. [13179/05]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

The Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board approved a grant of €121,907 in February 2005 for this centre for the purpose of setting up an after school and homework club. This centre has also received funding in the past under the area-based rural development initiative and it is open to the community council to make an application to South West Mayo Development Company Limited for the purpose outlined in the Deputy's question. It is also open to the group to apply for funding under the programme of grants for locally based community and voluntary organisations operated by my Department. The 2005 programme will be open for applications in the coming months.

Pat Carey

Question:

324 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if any discussions here taken place with the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment to develop and extend a model of community support along the lines of the community employment schemes; his proposals for developing a scheme using the €5 million allocated to his Department in the budget for 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13462/05]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

I have had discussions with the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment regarding the possibility of the transfer of responsibility for the social economy programme to me. Discussions between our two Departments are ongoing with regard to the practicalities of such a move. It is in this context and in the context of our experience with programmes such as the rural social scheme that the best use of the funding referred to by the Deputy is being considered.

Decentralisation Programme.

Donal Moynihan

Question:

325 Mr. D. Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding progress made in relation to the decentralisation programme for Macroom, County Cork; if the Office of Public Works has identified a property to accommodate the public service staff who have already volunteered to transfer under the central applications facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13089/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The decentralisation implementation group published a report in November 2004 dealing with the organisations-locations selected for inclusion in the first phase of moves as part of the Government's decentralisation programme. These organisations-locations were to be given priority. Although Macroom was not included in this list, an accommodation brief of requirements is being prepared for the Office of Public Works.

Live Exports.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

326 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the procedures adopted in the selection of a shipping business in 1997 to receive financial assistance from her Department for the provision of a substitute ferry service to carry live cattle to the European continent; the amount of such assistance provided and the conditions attaching to the grant; the date on which the decision was made and the manner in which it was notified; if her Department made adequate checks on the financial suitability and track record of applicants for this aid and of the successful bidder in particular; if and the manner in which the assistance was awarded to the successful bidder; if her Department has satisfied itself that any State payments appear in the financial books and accounts of the company to which it was awarded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12758/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The carriage of most categories of livestock from Ireland to continental Europe was discontinued by the main commercial ferry operator from August 1997. Given the vital importance to the Irish agricultural sector of an export outlet for live cattle in particular, tenders were invited for the provision of a replacement ferry service. Six responses were received from parties interested in providing such a service. Following evaluation by my Department, which included an evaluation by an independent assessor, a total of £1 million in State funding was made available to a company called Gaelic Ferries Limited to provide a service subject to the following conditions: State grant to assist with the start-up of the service would be limited to a maximum of £1 million, payable over the period to the end of April 1998 on a decreasing basis to be finalised by negotiations; owner's equity would be initially £100,000 and would be increased to at least £200,000 by the end of the initial three months of operation; every voyage would be accessible to livestock exporters for the carriage of livestock and livestock would be given preference over other freight in the event that on any voyage demand were to exceed capacity.

The decision to provide assistance was made in principle in September 1997 and the decision to provide assistance to Gaelic Ferries Limited was notified to the company by letter dated 9 October 1997. In its submission, Gaelic Ferries Limited had provided a business plan including financial arrangements and projections. This business plan was evaluated by my Department and by the independent assessor. The company was a joint venture involving the Port of Cork, Dundalk Shipowners Limited and the Irish Road Hauliers Association. Payments were made to the company as follows: £450,000 in October 1997, £250,000 in December 1997, £200,000 in February 1998 and £100,000 in March 1998. The service was operated from October 1997 to May 1998 when it was discontinued on the grounds that it was not commercially viable. By that time, alternative commercial ferry operators were offering facilities for transporting live animals to the Continent.

As examination of financial books and accounts of private companies is a matter for the Office of the Revenue Commissioners, the Companies Registration Office and other regulatory bodies. My Department did not undertake an audit of this company's accounts.

Grant Payments.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

327 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a REP scheme payment will be made to persons (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12816/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

There are two applications recorded on the Departments files for the person in question. There are no recorded details of an application from the person's spouse. The details are:

File Number	Date of Application	Area
CN12492	February 1997	40.61 Ha
CN23077	May 20	14.26 Ha

The actual planting was done by new owners of the land following change of ownership after planting approval had been given. The detailsare:

File Number	Date of Approval	Date of Planting	Grant Paid	Date Grant Paid
			€
CN12492	3 March 1998	29 May 1998	65,379.07	November 1998
CN23077	28 July 2000	22 December 2000	33,091.91	March 2001

There may be other instances where applications originally approved in the name of the person concerned or their spouse subsequently led to planting by other parties but such detail is not routinely captured in the data system. It is not possible to trace applications which may have been submitted by parties acting on behalf of the person in question.

The name of the forestry contractor employed by any applicant is private and confidential information.

Pat Breen

Question:

333 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare has been receiving correspondence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13087/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

Farmers who benefited under the special beef premium, suckler cow premium, slaughter premium or area aid during the years 2000, 2001 and 2002 established entitlements under the single payment scheme which came into effect from 1 January 2005.

It is noted that while the holding in question is transferred by the first person named to a relative, she claimed under the premium schemes in 2000, 2001 and 2002 and therefore established entitlements. Accordingly, the first person named has submitted a request that the entitlements be merged with those of the relative to whom they have been transferred. Officials in my Department are at present processing this case.

Pat Breen

Question:

334 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of farmers who have applied for over 25 animals in herds in County Clare for the special beef premium; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13232/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

Under the 2004 EU special beef premium scheme 1,154 herd owners in County Clare applied for more than 25 animals. Of these herd owners, 990 have now been paid interim balancing payments based on an estimated quota overshoot. The definitive position regarding the extent by which the national ceiling has been exceeded can only be established when all applications have been fully processed. Given the impact of the introduction of full decoupling on the 2004 special beef premium scheme, I am pursuing all aspects of the quota overshoot with the European Commission.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

335 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a single payment entitlement due to a person (details supplied) in County Galway has not been calculated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13321/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The person named has submitted an application for consideration in respect of the inheritance measure of the single payment scheme. Following processing of the application and documentation submitted, the person named has been notified that her application has been successful. A statement of provisional entitlements outlining the amended position will issue shortly.

Bovine Diseases.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

336 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Galway is not allowed to avail of a 30-day tuberculosis test; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13322/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

In view of the level of TB and brucellosis in Ireland, all herds with eligible animals are required by EU Directive 64/432/EEC to have one annual test for TB and brucellosis to maintain official free status and dependent trading opportunities. To facilitate the completion of the annual programme of tests and follow-up where disease is detected, such testing is conducted on a district electoral division, DED, basis and is organised into phases such that there is, as far a practicable, an even distribution of workload throughout the year taking into consideration daylight, prevailing weather conditions and availability of private veterinary practitioners.

Traditionally, the annual round test for the herd in question has been scheduled for completion in the course of the first phase. However, in the past the herd test has not been completed within the timeframe allocated. The current annual round test for this herd has been listed to the nominated veterinary surgeon and is due for completion in the course of the first phase, that is, before 12 June 2005.

Eligible animals being moved out of a herd must have passed a TB test within the previous 12 months and a brucellosis test within the previous 30 days. The majority of farmers would like to have their herd tests scheduled at peak sales periods to minimise private tests for animals they wish to sell, such as by having the herd tested shortly before special sales in the autumn. However, it would be impossible to manage the national testing programme if all herd tests were to be scheduled for this period or if individual testing of "out-of-test" animals for sale were permitted when a herd test is scheduled. It is therefore the policy not to reschedule the routine "round" tests out of their planned current phase unless there is a compelling disease reason to do so.

Grant Payments.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

337 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason single payment entitlements have not been calculated on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13323/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The person named submitted an application for consideration in respect of the new entrant and inheritance measures of the single payment scheme. Following processing of her application, she was originally informed that the new entrant measure would be more beneficial. Following a further review of her circumstances, however, it came to light that the inheritance measure is the more beneficial position and the person named has been notified accordingly. A statement of provisional entitlements reflecting the amended position will issue to the person named shortly.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

338 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will consider an appeal lodged by a person (details supplied) in County Cork in regard to his application under the single payment scheme. [13415/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The person named has been notified that the circumstances outlined by him did not satisfy the criteria for force majeure or exceptional circumstances under Article 40 of Council Regulation (EC) No. 1782/2003. Following this decision, the person named submitted an appeal to the independent single payment appeals committee. A full review of the circumstances of the case will be carried out by the committee and the person named will be notified shortly of the outcome.

Garda Stations.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

339 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has for a Garda station (details supplied) in County Wexford; if there are plans to sell the property. [13406/05]

Paul Kehoe

Question:

387 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has for a Garda station (details supplied) in County Wexford; if there are plans to sell the property; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13405/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 339 and 387 together.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the accommodation requirements for the Garda station referred to by the Deputy are under consideration. As I explained to the Deputy in Question No. 275 of Wednesday, 20 April 2005, the station is not for sale and there are no plans to sell it.

Drug Supply.

Tony Gregory

Question:

340 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if ecstasy tablets are being sold in Dublin city for as little as €1 per tablet in batches of 50; if this evidence of oversupply indicates the drug is being mass-produced locally and not imported; if the sources of this supply are chemists from eastern Europe based here; the action the Garda is taking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12729/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities there is no evidence available to them which suggests ecstasy is available for supply in Dublin city for the price stated by the Deputy. I am further informed that the current intelligence information available to the Garda Síochána continues to suggest ecstasy seized within this jurisdiction is produced outside the State.

As the Deputy is aware, the Garda monitors the availability of illegal drugs within the State on an ongoing basis. A key component of this is information received from the public. In this context, any persons with specific information in regard to the matters raised by the Deputy should report to the appropriate authorities.

Registration of Title.

Michael Ring

Question:

341 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a dealing (details supplied) in the Land Registry Office will be completed. [12756/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

However, I am also informed that the Irish Prison Service has developed and is piloting a service-wide computerised pre-vocational and vocational training programme database to record, on a prisoner-by-prisoner basis, participation in vocational training activity and achievement of recognised qualifications. This database will allow for ongoing monitoring of prisoners' progress and efficient production of management information. The database, once operational, will allow for the production of information of the nature sought by the Deputy.

The CONNECT project is being rolled out at Limerick Prison with support from the National Training and Development Institute. The projects at Mountjoy Prison, the Dóchas Centre and the training unit remain suspended due to the current industrial relations and financial restrictions.

Youth Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

345 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if funding will be offered to Kildare Youth Services (details supplied) in County Kildare which has made an application for the Garda youth diversion project in Celbridge, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12808/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Garda youth diversion projects are a community-based, multi-agency crime prevention initiative which seek to divert young persons from becoming involved — or further involved — in anti-social and-or criminal behaviour by providing suitable activities to facilitate personal development, promote civic responsibility and improve long-term employability prospects. By doing so, the projects also contribute to improving the quality of life within communities and enhancing Garda-community relations. The number of projects has grown from 12 in 1997 to 64 at present, a process made possible, in part, by funding under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. The locations of new projects are decided upon by the Garda authorities in conjunction with my Department.

I am committed to the continuing development and, as resources permit, the expansion of Garda youth diversion projects. Proposals made by the Garda Síochána to my Department on establishing further projects are examined within the context of available resources. All applications relating to the establishment of further projects should follow the establishment process as set out in the Garda youth diversion project guidelines which I launched in 2003. The 11 establishment guidelines give a clear structure to the application process from the initial expression of interest to the final submission of the proposal and cover issues such as the pre-establishment phase, consultation, memorandum of understanding, legal structure, co-ordinator's job description and catchment area.

A budget of €5.471 million has been provided for the Garda youth diversion projects and local drugs task force projects in 2005. It is expected that this amount will be required to meet the funding needs of the projects in operation. It is not envisaged that additional youth diversion projects will be established in the short term. I am informed by the Garda authorities that an application for a Garda youth diversion project in Celbridge was received in November 2003. Consideration will be given to this application among others should further funding become available.

Visa Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

346 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if and when a visa extension will be offered in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12809/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The person in question has recently replied to queries raised by my Department in regard to this matter. As a consequence, he has been granted permission to remain in the State. He should now make arrangements to attend his local immigration officer to have the appropriate permission endorsed on his passport and to have a certificate of registration issued in respect of him.

Child Care Services.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

347 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the provision of State funding for the staffing of a number of community-based not-for-profit child care centres in County Kerry; if State funding for staffing will be available to these centres from August 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12839/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The overall position in regard to County Kerry is that, to date, I have approved 63 staffing grants totalling over €7.2 million, under the equal opportunities child care programme, EOCP, for 2000 to 2006. The EOCP provides grant assistance towards the staffing costs of community-based and not-for-profit child care services which have a clear focus on disadvantage and which can demonstrate they are supporting disadvantaged parents to access employment, education or training. It is not intended that the EOCP funding would meet the full costs of running a service and the additional staffing and other running costs must be met from fees and other sources.

Staffing grants are normally made available for three years in the first instance. As the Deputy may be aware, I have approved the continuation of the existing levels of staffing grant assistance until 31 August 2005 for all groups whose first three-year funding has elapsed and who have shown that they are continuing to deliver child care services in accordance with their targets.

In a number of services, the levels of disadvantage among parents are such that the families would be unable to pay full economic fees and therefore those services require ongoing State assistance towards their staffing costs if they are to continue to support parents who are trying to break away from the cycle of disadvantage through education, training or employment. My Department is reviewing the arrangements for the ongoing support of such services where necessary. Final discussions on the review are taking place at present and I expect the outcome of the review will be forwarded to the groups in question shortly.

Crime Prevention.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

348 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the citizenship and safety education initiative being undertaken by the PSNI to address the needs of vulnerable young persons through a programme, available in Irish and English, taught by officers in schools; if he will make a statement on the initiative and his plans for similar action in this jurisdiction. [12849/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 352 to 356, inclusive, together.

While precise details in regard to any additional cost involved for the State, which would have been insignificant, are not readily available, it is not the practice and would be contrary to the public interest to detail the personal security measures pertaining to Ministers.

Garda Investigations.

Tony Gregory

Question:

357 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Question No. 64 of 12 April 2005, the reason for the forensic cold case review being conducted by the Garda on exhibits and samples taken from the murder scene eight years after the crime; the length of time this review is likely to take; if a further report will then issue to the DPP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13053/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that a forensic review of this case is being conducted because there have been many advancements in DNA investigation technology since the original crime took place, which may provide additional evidence. I am further informed that the preliminary findings of the cold case review are expected to be available at the end of the July. I understand that should any forensic evidence come to light as a result of the review, it will be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions for his consideration.

Visa Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

358 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if extension of residency will be offered to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13061/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The person in question was admitted to the State under the fast-track working visa scheme as a nurse. Persons working under this scheme are allowed to change their employers within the same skills category. In other words, the permission to work in that skills sector is vested in the employee rather than the employer.

The scheme requires that a non-EEA national nurse must be registered with An Bord Altranais, the Nursing Board. In this context, nurses with qualifications from countries other than Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United States must undertake a period of supervised clinical practice in an Irish hospital, temporary registration, before they are eligible for full registration. This registration process is not a matter which comes within my area of responsibility. However, such registration is, together with a job offer, the benchmark by which visa-required nurses are admitted to the State.

The person's permission to remain expired in November 2004. At that stage she was no longer employed as a nurse. Furthermore, she was no longer employable as a nurse in the State because she had been removed by An Bord Altranais from its register, a matter which now appears to be the subject of High Court proceedings. Therefore, even if I were to grant her permission to remain, she would not be entitled to work as a nurse. It seems she was not in lawful employment for a considerable period prior to the expiry of her permission to remain and she is claiming unemployment benefit. Notwithstanding the foregoing, her permission to remain was extended for a further three months. This further permission has now expired.

Her solicitors have written to me indicating she requires a further extension in regard to her High Court proceedings on the basis that it is important she remains in the jurisdiction pending the outcome of those proceedings. They are not proceedings between a non-national employee and an employer but between a person wishing to practice the profession of nursing and the regulatory body charged with responsibility for professional misconduct and alleged unfitness to engage in nursing practice. No information is given about the court proceedings, including the stage they have now reached and the expected date of conclusion. Instead, I am asked to extend permission once again to a person who is in dispute with the regulatory body for her profession, who is entirely reliant on State funds and for a period which is not specified. I am not prepared to grant a further extension on that basis alone. It is open to the person in question to apply for a visa to enter the State should she be required to give evidence in the context of those proceedings.

Domestic Violence.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

359 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of domestic violence incidents reported to the Garda over the past three years; and the numbers of prosecutions that resulted from same. [13062/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have made inquiries with the Garda authorities in regard to the number of domestic violence incidents reported to them over the past three years and the information requested by the Deputy is laid out in the following table.

Number of reported domestic violence incidents 2002 to 2004.
Year	Incidents	Persons charged	Persons convicted
2002	10,248	1,370	651
2003	8,452	1,203	650
2004*	6,229	1,104	538

*Figures for 2004 are provisional and liable to change.

Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

360 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made in the matter of the installation of closed circuit television in Waterford city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13063/05]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

361 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made in the matter of the installation of closed circuit television in Dungarvan, County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13064/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 360 and 361 together.

As the Deputy is aware, 17 locations throughout the country, including Waterford city, are set to receive town centre CCTV systems. This expansion is being implemented on a phased basis. Phase one includes Bray, Dundalk, Dún Laoghaire, Finglas, Galway and Limerick, phase two includes Athlone, Clondalkin, Tallaght and Waterford, and phase three incudes Ballyfermot, Carlow, Castlebar, Clonmel, Ennis, Kilkenny and Sligo.

The installation of the phase one systems in Bray, Dundalk, Dún Laoghaire and Limerick has been completed and these systems are now fully operational. Of the 18 cameras in Galway, 13 are now fully operational. It is proposed to install the final five cameras in tandem with the major redevelopment works being undertaken by Galway City Council in the Eyre Square area. The issue regarding the provision of suitable space to accommodate the monitoring of CCTV cameras in Finglas Garda station is being considered, in conjunction with the Office of Public Works, with regard to the overall accommodation needs of Finglas Garda station. It is hoped work can proceed to completion in Finglas in 2005.

Installation of CCTV systems is of necessity a detailed, complex and lengthy process. The Garda authorities are giving careful consideration to a restructuring of the manner in which Garda CCTV systems go to tender. I am anxious to accelerate the implementation of the remaining CCTV programme and reduce as far as possible the workload of the Garda Síochána in this regard. The proposed redesign of the tender document provides an opportunity to outsource the installation of Garda CCTV systems to the greatest possible extent, making use not only of the technical but also the project management expertise in the private sector. In this regard, I have asked the Garda Commissioner to submit proposals for a revised tender document for the 11 locations in the remaining two phases, with a view to achieving implementation in priority locations by the end of 2006.

As I have already informed the Deputy, an application for a Garda CCTV system in Dungarvan has been received by the CCTV advisory committee. This committee was established by the Garda Commissioner to advise on all matters relating to CCTV systems. The application is under consideration by the committee along with applications from other cities and towns throughout the country. The inclusion of other town centre locations, including Dungarvan, beyond the 17 already listed in the programme of Garda CCTV systems will be considered in the context of the Commissioner's proposals.

Decentralisation Programme.

Michael Lowry

Question:

362 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons who have requested transfers to Thurles under the decentralisation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13065/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Under the decentralisation programme, 151 civil servants together with five public servants submitted applications for Thurles to the central applications facility. In addition, I understand that 19 sergeants and 104 gardaí submitted expressions of interest to transfer to Thurles.

Garda Training.

Michael Lowry

Question:

363 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he has taken to increase the number of instructors at the Garda College, Templemore; the actions he will take to increase the number of instructors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13066/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that an analysis of the staffing levels at the Garda College, Templemore is being conducted to determine the exact number of additional instructors that will be required on an incremental basis at the Garda College. The incremental increase of instructors will be determined as the number of trainees undergoing training throughout 2005, 2006 and 2007 increases.

Grant Payments.

Phil Hogan

Question:

364 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if funding for community play groups (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will continue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13132/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Question:

374 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the quantity and weight of ecstasy tablets seized in the State by the Garda in each year between 1995 and 2004. [13236/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 367, 368 and 371 to 374, inclusive, together.

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that aggregate data for 2004 drug seizures is not available as yet. This data is being prepared for inclusion in the Garda Síochána annual report for 2004.

The following are the details of the drugs seizures in the years 1995 to 2003 as requested by the Deputy.

Cannabis Resin
Year	Quantity
1995	15,529 kg
1996	1,933 kg
1997	1,248 kg
1998	2,158 kg
1999	2,512 kg
2000	380 kg
2001	568 kg
2002	3,333 kg
2003	5,350 kg

Cannabis
Year	Quantity
1995	77.5 kg
1996	2.4 kg
1997	34.8 kg
1998	44.51 kg
1999	66.1 kg
2000	208.1 kg
2001	9,590.4 kg
2002	5,600 kg
2003	201.7 kg

Cocaine
Year	Quantity
1995	21.8 kg
1996	642 kg
1997	11.1 kg
1998	3,331.2 kg
1999	85.6 kg
2000	18 kg
2001	5.3 kg
2002	31.7 kg
2003	107.4 kg

Heroin
Year	Quantity
1995	6.4 kg
1996	10.8 kg
1997	8.2 kg
1998	38.3 kg
1999	17 kg
2000	23.94 kg
2001	29.5 kg
2002	16.7 kg
2003	27.05 kg

Ecstasy
Year	Quantity
1995	123,699 tablets
1996	19,244 tablets
1997	17,516 tablets
1998	604,882 tablets,
	424 capsules, 735g
1999	229,092 tablets,
	46 capsules, 236g
2000	551,713 tablets,
	5,644 capsules
2001	469,862 tablets
2002	117,033 tablets,
	13 capsules, 153g
2003	1,291,809 tablets,
	3 capsules, 616.3g

In relation to the Deputy's question concerning the weight of crack cocaine seized in the State by the Garda in each year between 1995 and 2004, I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the forensic science laboratory advises that there has been no significant increase in the amount of freebase cocaine analysed by it in the period 1995 to 2004, inclusive.

I am further informed that the forensic science laboratory advises that it is difficult to provide exact figures for the amount of freebase cocaine analysed without conducting exhaustive searches of its databases for the years concerned. However, the laboratory is conducting a review of cocaine seizures presented to it for analysis in the years 2003 and 2004 with a view to identifying the extent of which these seizures contained any freebase cocaine rather than hydrochloric cocaine which is the type most commonly seized. To date, this review of cases indicates that freebase cocaine has only been detected in a very small minority of cases and that there are no indications from cases presented of any significant increase in the seizures of freebase cocaine in this jurisdiction. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that they calculate the current realisable street market price of the different illegal drug seizures based on internal guidelines which are provided for officers on an ongoing basis in the operation of their duties in conjunction with the provisions of section 4(3) of the Criminal Justice Act 1999 which state:

If the court is satisfied that a member of the Garda Síochána or an officer of customs and excise has knowledge of the unlawful sale of supply of controlled drugs, that member or officer, as the case may be, shall be entitled in any proceedings for an offence under this section to be heard and to give evidence as to—

(a) the market value of the controlled drug concerned, or

(b) the aggregate of the market values of the controlled drugs concerned.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

369 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the location of each of the finds of heroin, cannabis, crack, cocaine and ecstasy with a value of over €10,000 in the past five years. [13215/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the requirement to produce details of seizures in excess of €10,000 for the period in question would involve a detailed manual search of records necessitating the expenditure of considerable resources which would not be justified.

I am further informed that there were no significant seizures of freebase cocaine during the period in question.

The table hereunder provides the details of locations of significant seizures, namely, seizures valued at €300,000 or greater, broken down per region and drug type, for the years 2000 to 2004 as follows:

Locations of significant seizures, namely, seizures valued at €300,000 or greater
Year	Drug Type	Region	No. of Seizures
2000	Heroin	DMR	5
	Cannabis	Southern	2
		South East	1
	Cocaine	DMR	1
		Southern	1
	Ecstasy	DMR	4
		Southern	2
		Eastern	1
		South Eastern	2
2001	Heroin	DMR	5
	Cannabis	DMR	3
		Southern	2
		Eastern	1
		South Eastern	2
	Cocaine	South Eastern	1
	Ecstasy	DMR	2
		Western	1
2002	Heroin	DMR	1
		Eastern	1
	Cannabis	DMR	4
		Eastern	2
		South Eastern	2
	Cocaine	DMR	1
		South East	1
	Ecstasy	DMR	3
2003	Heroin	DMR	6
	Cannabis	DMR	9
		Eastern	5
		Southern	4
	Cocaine	DMR	10
		Eastern	2
	Ecstasy	DMR	5
		South Eastern	3
		Eastern	1
		Northern	1
2004	Heroin	DMR	8
		Eastern	1
	Cannabis	DMR	6
		Southern	3
		Eastern	1
		Western	1
		South Eastern	1
	Cocaine	DMR	7
		Eastern	2
		Southern	1
		South Eastern	1
	Ecstasy	Southern	3
		DMR	2
		Eastern	1

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

370 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding prosecutions in relation to each of the finds of heroin, cannabis, crack, cocaine and ecstasy with a value exceeding €10,000 in the past five years; if persons have been charged; if so, if they are currently before the courts, have been acquitted, convicted, sentenced or are serving a sentence. [13216/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

It has not been possible within the timeframe involved to collate the information required by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy directly when the information is to hand.

Questions Nos. 371 to 374, inclusive, answered with Question No. 367.

Garda Stations.

Bernard Allen

Question:

375 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of years left in the lease of the Garda station in Glanmire, County Cork. [13251/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Office of Public Works that the current five year lease on the Garda station in Glanmire expires on 31 December 2008.

Garda Vetting Procedures.

John Cregan

Question:

376 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if agency nursing staff are subject to the same Garda vetting procedures as staff employed directly by the Health Service Executive. [13252/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The Garda central vetting unit, GCVU, carries out criminal record vetting in respect of prospective full-time employees of the Health Service Executive and in certain designated agencies funded by the executive.

Although agency nursing staff are not currently subject to the same Garda vetting regime, it is envisaged that a phased extension of the vetting arrangements to relevant groups will take place. To this end, a working group was established to examine the issue. The working group submitted its final report in March 2004 and this report has since been published in electronic form on my Department's website. On the basis of this report, my colleague, the Minister of State with special responsibility for children, Deputy Brian Lenihan, has announced the provision of additional staff resources for the GCVU to enable the Garda Síochána's vetting services to be extended.

The Minister of State's announcement implements one of the key recommendations of the working group. The other practical recommendations are being brought forward by an implementation group chaired by the Garda Síochána and comprising representatives of my Department, the Departments of Health and Children, Education and Science, and Finance, the Office of the Attorney General and Mr. Paul Gilligan, CEO of the ISPCC.

I am pleased to state that the extension of the services of the GCVU will commence in the course of this year, as soon as the necessary practical arrangements are in place. Public announcements will occur in this regard in due course.

Citizenship Applications.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

377 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason an application for naturalisation by a person (details supplied) in County Galway has not been acknowledged; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some of the documents, in particular their passport, is of immense value to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13326/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The persons concerned made separate applications for permission to remain in the State on the basis of their parentage of an Irish citizen child under the revised arrangements announced on 15 January 2005. Both applicants were issued with separate acknowledgements on 23 February 2005 by ordinary post to the same address.

Passports from the persons concerned were submitted with their applications and will be returned to them by registered post shortly. Applications are being dealt with as expeditiously as possible and, in so far as is possible, in order of receipt. Given the number of applications being processed, it is expected that the processing of the applications from the persons concerned will be completed within the next few weeks.

Public Order Offences.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

378 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of public offences committed per annum for each year since 1997 in Drogheda, Dundalk, Ardee, Carlow, Clonmel, Ennis, Kilkenny and Sligo. [13335/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I regret that it has not been possible in the time available to obtain the information requested by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy again when the information is to hand.

Garda Strength.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

379 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of uniformed gardaí, Garda sergeants, plain clothes gardaí and detective gardaí in the Gorey area in the years 1990 to date; the breakdown of each rank and year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13396/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the number of uniformed gardaí, Garda sergeants and detective gardaí of Gorey Garda district as at year end 1997 to 2004 and as at 22 April 2005, was as set out in the table hereunder:

Year	Gardaí	Sergeants	Det/Gardaí
31/12/97	49	10	2
31/12/98	53	11	2
31/12/99	51	13	2
31/12/00	52	13	2
31/12/01	59	13	2
31/12/02	62	11	4
31/12/03	61	11	4
31/12/04	60	12	3
22/04/05	61	12	4

The information requested in relation to the years 1990 to 1996 is not readily available and can only be obtained by the expenditure of a disproportionate amount of Garda time and resources relative to the information sought. The most up-to-date statistics available relate to 1997.

In relation to Garda resources generally, I am, of course, very pleased that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with An 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 be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of Gorey Garda district will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the country. Clearly, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies, in particular, areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities also, such as the need to very significantly increase the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda Traffic Corps. One thing I have already promised is that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into front-line, operational, high visibility policing. They will have a real impact.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

380 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of uniformed gardaí, Garda sergeants, plain clothes gardaí and detective gardaí in the Enniscorthy area in the years 1990 to date; the breakdown of each rank and year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13397/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the number of uniformed gardaí, Garda sergeants and detective gardaí of Enniscorthy Garda district as at year end 1997 to 2004 and as at 22 April 2005, was as set out in the table hereunder:

Year	Gardaí	Sergeants	Det/Gardaí
31/12/97	31	9	1
31/12/98	33	8	1
31/12/99	29	7	3
31/12/00	29	8	3
31/12/01	31	8	4
31/12/02	32	8	3
31/12/03	33	8	2
31/12/04	32	9	3
22/04/05	31	10	3

The information requested in relation to the years 1990 to 1996 is not readily available and can only be obtained by the expenditure of a disproportionate amount of Garda time and resources relative to the information sought. The most up to date statistics available relate to 1997.

In relation to Garda resources generally, I am, of course, very pleased that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with An 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 be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of Enniscorthy Garda district will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the country. Clearly, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies, in particular, areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities also, such as the need to very significantly increase the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda Traffic Corps. One thing I have already promised is that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into front line, operational, high visibility policing. They will have a real impact.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

381 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of uniformed gardaí, Garda sergeant, plain clothes gardaí and detective gardaí in the Wexford area in the years 1990 to date; the breakdown of each rank and year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13398/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the number of uniformed gardaí, Garda sergeants and detective gardaí of Wexford Garda district as at year end 1997 to 2004 and as at 22 April 2005, was as set out in the following table:

Year	Gardaí	Sergeants	Det/Gardaí
31/12/97	56	12	5
31/12/98	67	12	5
31/12/99	67	13	5
31/12/00	61	12	4
31/12/01	69	12	5
31/12/02	66	13	5
31/12/03	69	13	4
31/12/04	65	13	5
22/04/05	67	12	6

The information requested in relation to the years 1990 to 1996 is not readily available and can only be obtained by the expenditure of a disproportionate amount of Garda time and resources relative to the information sought. The most up-to-date statistics available relate to 1997.

In relation to Garda resources generally, I am, of course, very pleased that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with An 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 be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of Wexford Garda district will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the country. Clearly, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies, in particular, areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities also, such as the need to very significantly increase the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda Traffic Corps. One thing I have already promised is that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into front-line, operational, high visibility policing. They will have a real impact.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

382 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of uniformed gardaí, Garda sergeants, plain clothes gardaí and detective gardaí in the New Ross area in the years 1990 to date; the breakdown of each rank and year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13399/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the number of uniformed gardaí, Garda sergeants and detective gardaí of New Ross Garda district as at year end 1997 to 2004 and as at 22 April 2005, was as set out in the table hereunder:

Year	Gardaí	Sergeants	Det/Gardaí
31/12/97	28	6	2
31/12/98	31	6	2
31/12/99	29	5	2
31/12/00	33	6	2
31/12/01	32	6	2
31/12/02	33	6	2
31/12/03	31	7	2
31/12/04	32	7	1
22/04/05	31	7	2

The information requested in relation to the years 1990 to 1996 is not readily available and can only be obtained by the expenditure of a disproportionate amount of Garda time and resources relative to the information sought. The most up-to-date statistics available relate to 1997.

In relation to Garda resources generally, I am, of course, very pleased that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with An 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 be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of New Ross Garda district will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda districts throughout the country. Clearly, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies, in particular, areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities also, such as the need to very significantly increase the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda Traffic Corps. One thing I have already promised is that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into front-line, operational, high visibility policing. They will have a real impact.

Crime Levels.

Billy Timmins

Question:

383 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Bray area, County Wicklow for the years between 2000 and 2004; if he will allocate more gardaí to the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13400/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the current personnel strength of Bray Garda station as of 25 April 2005 is 85, all ranks. This compares with a figure of 76 on 31 December 1997 and represents an increase of nine, or 12%, in the personnel strength since that date.

In relation to Garda resources generally, I am, of course, very pleased that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with An 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 be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of Bray Garda station will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country. Clearly, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies, in particular, areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities also, such as the need to very significantly increase the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda Traffic Corps. One thing I have already promised is that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into front-line, operational, high visibility policing. They will have a real impact.

Statistics for headline crime offences in Bray district for the period 2000 to 2004 are outlined in the following table.

Statistics for Headline Crime Offences in Bray District 2000 to 2004
	2000	2001	2002	2003	*2004
	Rec	Det	Rec	Det	Rec	Det	Rec	Det	Rec	Det
Homicide	0	0	1	1	0	0	1	1	2	1
Assault	15	10	54	37	92	71	66	48	70	29
Sexual Offences	14	11	17	10	32	22	31	20	34	13
Arson	23	14	49	10	23	4	35	4	25	1
Drugs	21	21	45	45	55	55	41	41	27	27
Theft	727	158	751	168	858	181	892	192	952	184
Burglary	625	167	612	122	644	81	879	95	690	69
Robbery	46	17	47	19	54	20	59	18	50	11
Fraud	36	34	32	26	90	76	39	29	35	16
Other	0	0	17	13	30	21	11	7	15	5
Total Headline Offences	1,507	432	1,625	451	1,878	531	2,054	455	1,900	356

*Figures for 2004 are provisional and liable to change.

Citizenship Applications.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

384 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the waiting time for the processing of applications for naturalisation; the number of applications in hand; the expected date on which applications at present in his Department will be determined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13402/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The average processing time for a certificate of naturalisation is 24 months. This is due primarily to the increase in the volume of applications being received in the past few years. The table below sets out the numbers of applications received and the number of certificates issued in the period 2000 to 2004.

	Applications received	Certificates issued
2000	1,004	125
2001	1,431	1,048
2002	3,574	1,332
2003	3,580	1,664
2004	4,074	1,335

There are 1,808 applications in the course of being processed and 6,198 applications awaiting processing.

A redeployment of staff within the asylum and immigration area of my Department is underway. The citizenship area is one of the areas which is benefitting from this process. Between September 2004 and the present time, an additional 17 full-time and part-time staff have been assigned to citizenship work and it is anticipated that these additional personnel, coupled with initiatives to which I referred in my answer to Parliamentary Question No. 153 of 24 March 2005, will impact of the processing time for applications for naturalisation.

Departmental Staff.

Tony Gregory

Question:

385 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 419 of 19 April 2005, the number of permanent unestablished persons employed by his Department. [13403/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Further to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 419 of 19 April 2005, I wish to advise the Deputy that there are currently some 226 permanent staff in my Department who are unestablished. This includes services officers and attendants, cleaners, clerical, executive and administrative officers and other contracted staff.

Visa Applications.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

386 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason his Department cannot give a detailed reply to a query (details supplied) raised by this Deputy in March 2005 regarding an application for a visitor's visa; and if a detailed response will now be provided. [13404/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

It is my understanding that there was some difficulty in identifying the applications referred to by the Deputy in her letter dated 8 March 2005 as no reference numbers were supplied. Given the number of applications processed by my Department, identifying records based on the applicant's name alone is, I understand, often difficult. However, I am informed that the records have recently been identified and that the situation is as follows.

The applications in question were for the stated purposes of allowing the spouse and dependent children of a non-EEA national working in the State under the employment permit scheme visit him on a short-term basis. The central tenet of the visa process in this State has been and continues to be that the onus is at all times on the applicant to satisfy my Department that it would be appropriate to issue them with a visa. In the case of the applications in question, the applicants failed to do so.

In assessing any visa application, the visa officer will consider various matters, including whether it is reasonable in all the circumstances to conclude that the applicant would fully honour the conditions of the visa, for example, whether it is unlikely that the applicant would overstay the length of time applied for, or would seek to work illegally in the State, etc. The visa officer will also have regard to information provided and to such factors as the applicant's ties and general circumstances in their country of origin. The application in question was refused because the visa officer could not reasonably be satisfied, on the basis of the documentation supplied to my Department, that the applicant would observe the conditions of the visa applied for. Additionally, in the case of one of the children's applications, 1547219, the failure to supply a birth certificate for the child was noted and contributed to the refusal decision.

Notification of the reasons for refusal was sent, by e-mail, from my Department on 27 January 2005. The applicants were informed of their right of appeal. However, no such appeal has been received by my Department. As the latest date for receipt of an appeal in respect of these applications has passed, no further action is possible.

If the applicants still wish to travel, they must submit fresh applications, accompanied by extra documentation designed to address the reasons for refusal outlined.

Question No. 387 answered with QuestionNo. 339.

Prisons Building Programme.

Dan Boyle

Question:

388 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of capital expenditure by his Department at Fort Mitchel Place of Detention, Spike Island since 1997. [13421/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

An amount of €6,333,390.56 has been spent on capital projects at Fort Mitchel Place of Detention since 1997. The majority of this expenditure related to the constructionof a new kitchen and office administration facilities.

Deportation Orders.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

389 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the present position regarding the recent deportation from Ireland of two persons (details supplied) in view of their successful integration into their homes here; his thoughts on a reappraisal of the decision to deport these persons; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that these families have been torn apart because of the decision; and if he has proposals for the potential reunification of these families. [13457/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I refer the Deputy to the reply I gave to Questions Nos. 397 and 403 on Tuesday, 19 April 2005. My position regarding the return of these persons to the State remains the same.

Garda Operations.

Finian McGrath

Question:

390 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of times section 24 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002 has been used to date by the Garda Síochána; the number of times the object referred to in the legislation has been a caravan or other temporary dwelling; if it has been used principally to address unauthorised camping by members of the Traveller community, as was suggested it would be when the legislation was introduced; the number of times the use of the legislation has resulted in court proceedings; the number of times a caravan or caravans has or have been confiscated and impounded by the Garda under the powers conferred by the legislation; and the breakdown of these figures by Garda divisional areas. [13458/05]

Finian McGrath

Question:

391 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of times the powers granted to the Garda Síochána under section 24 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002 have been invoked by members of the Garda Síochána; the number of times any such invocation has resulted in arrest or charge; the breakdown of this figure by Garda division; the number of times such arrest or charge resulted in subsequent court prosecution or conviction; the breakdown of this figure by Garda division; the number of times a caravan or caravans has or have been confiscated and impounded under the legislation; the breakdown of this figure by Garda division; the categories of classification which are used in the statistics and records maintained regarding the identity of persons against whom section 24 powers have been invoked; if categories of classification referred to in the statistics and records maintained identify a class of persons affected as Travellers, the number of such Travellers who have been identified in the statistics as affected by the section; if categories of classification referred to in the statistics and records maintained identify classes of persons as non-Traveller, the number of such non-Travellers who have been identified in the statistics as affected by the section; if no such categories of classification are apparent from the statistics, if he proposes to direct that such categories now be compiled to ascertain the impact of the legislation on the Traveller community; and the provisions which have been made administratively for guidance and oversight for members of the Garda Síochána in the invocation of this provision. [13459/05]

Finian McGrath

Question:

392 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the directions consideration or administrative guidelines which have been put in place by him or the Garda Commissioner regarding the disposal and storage of property seized under section 24 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002. [13460/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 390 to 392, inclusive, together.

The most recent figures for the numbers of incidents recorded by the Garda Síochána under the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002 for the years 2002 to 2004 are set out by Garda division in the following tables. Section 24 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002 became law on 27 June 2002. The Garda authorities inform me that no temporary dwellings were removed during 2002 and 2003. The provisional figures for 2004 show one removal in the Clare division and two removals in the Cork city division, all relating to caravans.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that the information requested on the identification of classes of people as Travellers or non-Travellers affected by the introduction of the legislation and the information requested on the principal use of the powers being used against the Traveller community is not readily available and could only be provided by a disproportionate expenditure of Garda time and resources.

Following the enactment of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002 copies of the legislation were disseminated to members of the Garda Síochána. The power provided for in section 24 is a discretionary power and each case must be considered by local Garda management on its own merits and acted upon accordingly.

Table 1
2002
Division	Reported	Detected	Proceedings	Convicted
Carlow/Kildare	0	0	0	0
Laois/Offaly	0	0	0	0
Longford/Westmeath	0	0	0	0
Louth/Meath	1	1	1	0
D.M.R. East	1	1	0	0
D.M.R. N/Central	1	1	1	0
D.M.R. North	1	1	0	0
D.M.R. S/Central	0	0	0	0
D.M.R. South	0	0	0	0
D.M.R. West	0	0	0	0
Cavan/Monaghan	0	0	0	0
Donegal	0	0	0	0
Sligo/Leitrim	0	0	0	0
Tipperary	3	3	3	3
Waterford/Kilkenny	0	0	0	0
Wexford/Wicklow	0	0	0	0
Cork City	0	0	0	0
Cork North	0	0	0	0
Cork West	0	0	0	0
Kerry	0	0	0	0
Limerick	3	2	1	1
Clare	0	0	0	0
Galway West	0	0	0	0
Mayo	1	1	1	0
Roscommon/Galway East	0	0	0	0
Totals	11	10	7	4

Table 2
2003
Division	Reported	Detected	Proceedings	Convicted
Carlow/Kildare	4	2	2	0
Laois/Offaly	2	2	2	2
Longford/Westmeath	2	2	2	0
Louth/Meath	10	10	5	1
D.M.R. East	5	5	3	0
D.M.R. N/Central	12	12	4	2
D.M.R. North	15	12	8	3
D.M.R. S/Central	11	11	5	2
D.M.R. South	8	4	1	0
D.M.R. West	6	6	3	0
Cavan/Monaghan	2	1	0	0
Donegal	3	3	0	0
Sligo/Leitrim	7	1	1	0
Tipperary	1	1	1	1
Waterford/Kilkenny	4	4	2	0
Wexford/Wicklow	6	6	3	1
Cork City	22	21	19	4
Cork North	2	2	0	0
Cork West	1	1	0	0
Kerry	2	2	2	1
Limerick	1	1	1	0
Clare	6	6	4	0
Galway West	2	0	0	0
Mayo	2	2	1	0
Roscommon/Galway East	1	1	1	0
Totals	137	118	70	17

Table 3
2004
Division	Reported	Detected	Proceedings	Convicted
Carlow/Kildare	14	12	2	1
Laois/Offaly	1	0	0	0
Longford/Westmeath	6	1	1	0
Louth/Meath	7	4	2	1
D.M.R. East	8	5	4	0
D.M.R. N/Central	16	15	10	1
D.M.R. North	10	7	4	0
D.M.R. S/Central	13	12	8	2
D.M.R. South	11	7	5	0
D.M.R. West	10	9	4	0
Cavan/Monaghan	1	0	0	0
Donegal	6	5	4	0
Sligo/Leitrim	1	1	0	0
Tipperary	4	2	1	0
Waterford/Kilkenny	6	6	5	0
Wexford/Wicklow	10	10	9	8
Cork City	3	3	3	1
Cork North	1	0	0	0
Cork West	7	7	2	1
Kerry	1	0	0	0
Limerick	7	6	2	0
Clare	8	5	4	0
Galway West	3	3	2	0
Mayo	1	1	1	0
Roscommon/Galway East	1	1	0	1
Totals	156	122	73	16

Statistics for 2004 are provisional or operational and liable to change.

Registration of Title.

Michael Ring

Question:

393 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a dealing (details supplied) in the Land Registry will be completed. [13461/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for transfer of part, which was lodged on 13 July 2001. Dealing No. D2001SM005438N refers. I am further informed that a query issued to the lodging solicitor on 20 May 2004 and that the application cannot proceed until this query has been satisfactorily resolved. However, on receipt of a satisfactory reply the application will receive further attention in the Land Registry.

Question No. 394 answered with QuestionNo. 92.

Question No. 395 answered with QuestionNo. 53.

Schools Building Projects.

Seán Ryan

Question:

396 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that St. Michael’s House and Fingal County Council have been informed by her Department that a site is not required in Skerries, County Dublin to provide for a much needed replacement national school for St. Michael’s House special national school, Skerries; if her attention has further been drawn to the school’s 21 year history in Skerries and its involvement in the local community, the residential location of the pupils and the preference of the parents and friends of this school to have the new school located in Skerries; and if, in view of this, she will reconsider this case with a view to reversing her Department’s decision. [12750/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Officials in the school planning section of my Department are aware of the need to provide a long-term solution to the accommodation needs of St. Michael's House special school, Skerries. It is the understanding of officials in my Department that the children attending the school come from a wide catchment area. The locating of the school in the Skerries area is one of a number of possible accommodation options for the school. However, no final decision has been taken on this matter.

Higher Education Grants.

Mary Upton

Question:

397 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science further to her reply to Parliamentary Question No. 149 of 14 April 2005, the terms of reference for the review mentioned in same. [12751/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

As I indicated in my reply of 14 April 2005 to Question No. 149, I have asked my Department to review the status of this course for maintenance grant purposes.

Issues have been raised with my Department, including by the Office of the Ombudsman, regarding the conditions under which the course in question is recognised for grant purposes. These relate to the question of the course being recognised as progression for purposes of the scheme or as a professional practice qualification for a person who already holds a postgraduate qualification.

School Accommodation.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

398 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on the background to her decision to sanction a new school and provide for the expansion of another school (details supplied) from an eight class school to a 16 class school, following representations from this Deputy and others; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12752/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department does not have details of the number of pupils who have failed to gain places in the school of choice except where the parents or guardians of a child appealed a schools decision to the Secretary General of my Department.

Responsibility for ensuring that a child progresses from primary to post-primary education rests in the main with the child's parents. Under section 17 of the Education (Welfare) Act 2000, parents are responsible for ensuring that their children attend a recognised school or otherwise receive an appropriate minimum education. The Education Welfare Board is required to assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in ensuring that their children attend school regularly and will also assist schools in fulfilling their role under the Act. Through its educational welfare officers, the board provides a welfare focused service that is accessible to parents, school and others concerned with the welfare of young people.

The selection and enrolment of pupils in second level schools is the responsibility of the management authorities. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking second level places in an area. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice. As schools may not have a place for every applicant, a selection process may be necessary. My Department has agreed the application of fair and objective entrance criteria for entry to second level schools with the three post-primary managerial associations.

Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 provides parents with an appeal process where a board of management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the board refuses enrolment of a student. Where an appeal under section 29 is upheld, the Secretary General of my Department may direct a school to enrol a pupil. There have been two appeals to date to the Secretary General of my Department against the decision of schools in County Kildare to refuse enrolment to applicants for the 2005-06 school year. One of the appeals was upheld and the Secretary General of my Department has directed the school to enrol the pupil. In the other instance the school offered a place to the pupil while the appeal was at the facilitation stage of the section 29 appeal process.

All applications for capital funding from schools in the area to which the Deputy refers are being considered as part of a review of all projects, which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme. Under this review, all projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, which were revised last year following consultation with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the school building programme from 2005 onwards.

In addition, in 2004 a new school planning model involving published draft area development plans was piloted in five areas. Included in the pilot scheme is the area around the N4-M4 from Leixlip to Kilbeggan. Included in this are the areas referred to by the Deputy. The purpose of this new approach to school planning is to ensure that, in future, the provision of school infrastructure will be decided only after a transparent consultation process. In this regard, parents, trustees, sponsors of prospective new schools and all interested parties in the locality will have the opportunity to have their voices heard in the process.

The commission on school accommodation recently completed the public consultation process on the draft area development plan for the N4-M4 area and it will complete its report as soon as possible. Applications for capital funding from schools in this area will continue to be processed under the review mentioned above. When the commission's report becomes available, the appropriate adjustments will be made where necessary.

Special Educational Needs.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

403 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the arrangements in place at post-primary level for September 2005, specifically for primary pupils with special learning needs who have been educated in special classes in national schools in Kildare. [12794/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Paul Kehoe

Question:

409 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a school (details supplied) in County Wexford no longer has funding under the stay in school retention initiative once the scheme ends; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that it is not being considered for the new initiative; if it will be considered for this programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12851/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The project at the schools to which the Deputy refers have been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria, which was revised following consultation with the education partners. The proposed project at the schools referred to will proceed in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2005-09.

Institutes of Technology.

Michael Lowry

Question:

421 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to develop the Thurles Campus of Tipperary Institute; the steps she intends to take to ensure that the Thurles campus will develop and expand into the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13036/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

425 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science the source of funding for the management and maintenance of joint school community sports halls as provided for under the schools building programme; the funding designated for the joint school and community usage of the sports hall under construction at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13040/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The project referred to by the Deputy is one of a number of dual use halls being funded as part of a joint programme to develop community sports facilities in drugs task force areas. Preliminary discussions have taken place with the relevant local authorities regarding the management of the community aspect of these facilities. Each school authority will be kept advised of developments.

Michael Lowry

Question:

426 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if correspondence (details supplied) has been brought to her attention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13041/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I have included the building project for the school in question in my recently announced list of school projects to proceed through architectural planning in 2005. I have also approved the school for works to be carried out under the summer works scheme.

My Department will be in contact with the school management shortly to progress the design process. I have now announced the first phases of the 2005 schools building and modernisation programme which provided details of: a total of 122 major school building projects country wide, including 89 primary school projects, which will prepare tenders and move to construction during the next 12 to 15 months; an additional 171 primary schools that will be invited to deliver their building projects on the basis of devolved funding; a total of 43 schools, of which 32 are primary schools, that will be authorised to commence architectural planning; a total of 124 schools, of which 73 are primary schools, whose projects will further progress through the design process and 590 schools approved for funding under the 2005 summer works scheme. A grant of €190,278 has been approved for the school in question to carry out an electrical upgrade as part of the summer works scheme 2005.

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 their teaching resources to have smaller numbers in other classes. In accordance with the staffing schedule, the staffing of the school referred to by the Deputy for the school year 2004 to 2005 is a principal and eight mainstream class teachers based on an enrolment of 233 pupils at 30 September 2003. 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 was 241 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.

Questions Nos. 432 to 437, inclusive, answered with Question No. 83.

Special Educational Needs.

Finian McGrath

Question:

438 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if assistance will be given to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 to obtain a place soon in the CABAS school, Kilbarrack, Dublin 17. [13144/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I am most anxious that all children, including children with autistic spectrum disorders receive education appropriate to their needs.

CABAS Kilbarrack is one of eight stand-alone applied behavioural analysis, ABA, specific facilities that are currently being funded by my Department, catering for a total of 151 children on the autistic spectrum. The approach of ABA in the education of children on the autistic spectrum provides for the input of one to one and sometimes two to one pupil-teacher ratio tuition. To this end, my Department funds these facilities by providing an allocation to enable each child in the facility to access the services of a tutor.

I understand from my officials that the child in question is currently attending a Montessori school. I can confirm that the pupil is on a waiting list for CABAS, Kilbarrack. Applications for enrolment in the CABAS unit are a matter for the management authorities of this facility.

Private Schools.

Seán Crowe

Question:

439 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding she will be making available to fee paying schools in this year’s budget. [13153/05]

Seán Crowe

Question:

440 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding from the school building fund she will be allocating to private fee paying schools in the next 12 months. [13154/05]

Seán Crowe

There are some 39 recommendations in the report, with costed proposals totalling €244 million extra, of which €66.3 million would be a recurring annual cost. Funds are not available at present to progress the strategy on the scale recommended in the report. Of the 39 recommendations, four are not for the education sector. Of the remainder, progress has been made on 25 of the recommendations. In that context, the following developments have taken place.

A new science curriculum has been introduced at primary level supported by a resource grant in December 2004 of €1,000 per school plus €10 per pupil. The total cost of the grant was €7.739 million.

Revised syllabi in junior certificate science and in leaving certificate physics, chemistry and biology have been introduced. Work on the revision of the two remaining leaving vertificate subjects — agricultural science and physics and chemistry combined — is well advanced. The introduction of the revised syllabi has been supported by comprehensive inservice programmes for teachers. For example, some 62,000 training days for teachers at an estimated cost of €5.6 million was provided in 2002 and 2003 to support these programmes. An estimated €920,000 in 2004 and €980,000 in 2005 is being spent on inservice training for second level science teachers.

Additional equipment grants have been provided to schools and laboratories continue to be refurbished as part of the ongoing schools building programme. In that context, €16 million was issued to schools in 2004 to support the implementation of the revised junior certificate science syllabus.

A review of grading of subjects in the leaving certificate and initial reports on teacher training have been undertaken.

A review of mathematics at post-primary level is being undertaken by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment.

Investment in the programme of research in third level institutes is continuing apace to enhance and promote world class standards in research, innovation and development. Between this programme and the various grants to the research councils, and other sources, an estimated €101.5 million will be invested in third level institutions in this area in 2005. This builds on investment over the period 2002-04 of €213.7 million in this area. The discover science and engineering programme, operated under the aegis of Forfás with the collaboration of the education sector, was launched in October 2003 to bring together existing science awareness activities in a unified strategy.

I have recently announced a provision of €750,000 towards the cost of the BA festival of science which is being hosted by Trinity College this year. This is one of the world's leading science events and will be attended by some 3,000 delegates, with an estimated 7,000-10,000 people enjoying some part of the programme.

Separate itemised costings are not readily available for the other measures listed, which are being or have been implemented over a number of years. I have no plans to make provision for technicians at primary and post primary level. The estimated cost of technicians at post primary level in the task force report was €18.8 million per annum at 2002 prices, and provision is this area would lead to demands for similar assistance across other areas of the curriculum with a strong practical component. Many European countries do not employ laboratory assistants.

Question:

453 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if there is a timeframe on the review dealing with the situation at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13245/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 452 and 453 together.

Officials in the school planning section of my Department are considering two options as possible solutions to the long term accommodation needs of the school in question. The first option is the provision of a new school on a greenfield site. The property management section of the Office for Public Works, which acts on behalf of my Department regarding site acquisitions generally, has identified a site, which could provide for the long-term accommodation requirements of the school in question. Negotiations on this site are ongoing between the OPW and Dublin City Council.

My Department is also looking at another option which could offer a better value for money solution for the school's long-term accommodation needs. This option includes an overall review of primary educational infrastructure in the area in question, the likely demand for primary school places in the medium to long term and how existing provision can be maximised to cater for this demand.

This review, which will inform any decisions on the allocation of capital funding for the school in question, will be completed as quickly as possible. I have no plans to meet with a delegation from the school pending the outcome of the review.

School Staffing.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

454 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science when a school (details supplied) in County Cavan will receive the services of a part-time teacher for the remainder of the year 2004-05 as indicated verbally by the inspector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13254/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Funding arrangements for voluntary secondary schools is structured mainly on the basis of capitation grants with additional grants for support services such as caretaking. This provides schools with considerable flexibility as to the manner in which such services are provided to cater for the needs of their pupils.

There have been significant improvements in the level of funding for voluntary secondary schools including the school referred to by the Deputy. With effect from January last, the standard per capita grant was increased by €12 per pupil and now amounts to €286 per pupil. Voluntary secondary schools have also benefited, under the school services support fund initiative, from further significant increases in the support services grant. Under the terms of recent equalisation measures, the support grant has been significantly enhanced and now stands at €145 per pupil from 1 January 2005.

These grant increases are in addition to the equalisation funding grants of up to €44.44 per pupil, subject to a cap of €15,554 per secondary school, introduced in 2001, and also additional to the per capita grants of some €70 per pupil, subject to a cap of €24,442 per school, introduced in 1992, that have been approved for voluntary secondary schools including the school referred to by the Deputy. The provision of secretarial and caretaking support services, is a particular focus of these support grants.

School Accommodation.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

458 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason temporary accommodation has not been provided for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if her Department will review the situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13331/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

An application for temporary accommodation was received from the authorities of the school referred to by the Deputy. All applications for temporary accommodation were considered by the school planning section of my Department in the context of the available funding for 2005, and the number of applications for that funding. Unfortunately, it was not possible to approve all applications received, and only those with an absolute and demonstrated need for additional accommodation were approved.

Billy Timmins

Question:

459 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received an application from a school (details supplied) in County Dublin for accommodation improvement; if so, the status of this application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13401/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department has received an application for additional accommodation from the school authorities of St. Brendan's college, Woodbrook, Bray. The project is currently being assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects which were revised last year following consultation with the education partners. Under this review, all projects are assigned a band rating and the progress of individual projects is being considered in the context of the school building programme from 2005 onwards.

School Services Staff.

Jackie Healy-Rae

Question:

460 Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Science if the post of full-time caretaker for a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary will be approved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13410/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Individual school management authorities are not required to report to my Department on incidences of bullying and the information requested by the Deputy is not available in my Department. However, I am acutely aware of the issue of bullying in schools and my Department has in place a multi-faceted strategy to tackle the issue. The education of students in both primary and post-primary schools about anti-bullying behaviour is a central part of the social, personal and health education, SPHE, curriculum. SPHE is now a compulsory subject both at primary level and in the junior cycle of post-primary schools. The SPHE curriculum provides for the development of personal and social skills, including self-awareness, respect for others, self-esteem and communication skills, all of which are important elements in addressing the issue of bullying. In primary education, the issue of bullying is addressed in the SPHE curriculum in the strand, Myself and Others, from infant classes onwards. In second level education, the issue of bullying is addressed from first year onwards in the SPHE curriculum at junior cycle, in the module on Belonging and Integrating.

My Department, in its Guidelines on Countering Bullying Behaviour in Schools, has provided a national framework within which individual school management authorities may meet their responsibilities for implementing effective school-based policies to counter bullying. These guidelines were drawn up following consultation with representatives of school management, teachers and parents, and are sufficiently flexible to allow each school authority to adapt them to suit the particular needs of the school.

Each school is required to have in place a policy which includes specific measures to deal with bullying behaviour within the framework of an overall school code of behaviour and discipline. Such a code, properly devised and implemented, can be the most influential measure in countering bullying behaviour in schools. The school development planning initiative plays an important role in supporting schools to raise awareness of the need for anti-bullying measures. In addition, my Department funds a number of support services and pilot initiatives which provide direct assistance for schools in dealing with the issue of bullying.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

467 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which the objectives set in the school building programme in respect of primary and second level schools in County Kildare are likely to be met in the current year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13432/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I have now announced the first phases of the 2005 schools building and modernisation programme. The details are 122 major school building projects countrywide, including 89 primary school projects, which will prepare tenders and move to construction during the next 12 to 15 months, an additional 171 in the number of primary schools that will be invited to deliver their building projects on the basis of devolved funding, 43 schools, of which 32 are primary schools, that will be authorised to commence architectural planning, 590 schools approved for funding under the 2005 summer works scheme, of which over 360 are primary schools, and 124 schools, of which 73 are primary schools, whose projects will further progress through the design process.

In addition to the above, approximately €18 million in respect of all primary schools will be issued under the devolved grant to enable schools to carry out minor works. Each primary school gets a standard rate of €3,809 together with a per pupil rate of €12.70. I plan to make a further announcement in the coming period on the 2005 schools building and modernisation programme that will include details of projects identified as suitable for construction under public private partnerships.

Officials from my Department will be working with all the schools on the above lists, including those in County Kildare, to ensure that the objectives in the 2005 programme are met.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

468 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the second level school in County Kildare which holds the highest pupil-teacher ratio; her plans to address this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13433/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio at post-primary level in recent years. At post-primary level, the pupil-teacher ratio has been reduced from 16:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 13.6:1 in the 2003-04 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 and those from disadvantaged areas. The information requested by the Deputy about the second level school in County Kildare which holds the highest pupil-teacher ratio is not readily available in my Department.

Health and Safety Regulations.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

469 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the potential breach of health and safety regulations due to overcrowding at various schools throughout County Kildare at either primary or secondary level; her plans to address these issues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13438/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

481 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if all primary and second level schools throughout the country are in keeping with health and safety requirements in view of the extent of overcrowding due to failure to provide extra classroom accommodation when needed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13450/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

482 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools throughout the country deemed to be overcrowded by way of lack of needed extra space; her plans to address this issue in the near future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13451/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 469, 481 and 482 together.

In accordance with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989, it is the responsibility of school management authorities to have a safety statement in place in their schools. Schools are obliged to identify possible hazards, assess the risks to health and safety and put appropriate safeguards in place. Individual school authorities are responsible, in the first instance, for ensuring the safety and welfare of children and others in their care.

The demand for additional accommodation in schools has risen significantly in recent years mainly due to the rapid expansion in teacher numbers, particularly in the area of special needs, the growth in the school-going population in rapidly developing areas and the demands to cater for diversity through the recognition of new gaelscoileanna and Educate Together schools.

Between 1998 and 2004, almost €2 billion has been invested on primary and post-primary educational infrastructure on 7,500 individual building projects, site purchases, dust-asbestos and radon remediation programmes, science initiatives, contingency, furniture and equipment. The current focus within my Department is to empower schools to resolve their accommodation needs, wherever possible, in a permanent manner rather than relying on temporary accommodation. In order to reduce the amount of temporary accommodation at primary level a new initiative was launched in 2003. The purpose of this initiative is to allow primary schools to undertake a permanent solution to their classroom accommodation needs and to achieve the best value for money. The feedback from the 20 schools in this pilot of the initiative was very positive and the initiative was expanded to include 44 additional primary schools in 2004. Over 70 schools have been invited to participate in this initiative in 2005.

My Department has also used other innovative solutions to deliver urgently required permanent accommodation for schools in rapidly developing areas. An example of this is the new 16 classroom primary school for the Griffeen Valley Educate Together national school, Lucan, which was delivered through the use of a design and build contract within 13 months.

The Government remains committed to continuing the work that it started and to consolidating the substantial progress that has already been made in order to ensure that the needs of schools throughout the country are met over time. Proof of this commitment is that this year's school building programme is the largest in the history of the State. Out of an overall capital budget of €493 million for schools, €270 million is available for primary school investment.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

A total of 13 primary schools in Kildare have been approved for funding under the summer works scheme for small-scale projects and a further 13 schools have been allocated funding under the devolved initiative scheme to improve their accommodation. Progress on further applications for capital funding from schools in Kildare is being considered in the context of the school building programme from 2005 onwards. In addition, in 2004 a new school planning model involving published draft area development plans was piloted in five areas. Included in the pilot scheme is the area around the N4-M4 from Leixlip to Kilbeggan.

The purpose of this new approach to school planning is to ensure that, in future, the provision of school infrastructure will be decided only after a transparent consultation process. In this regard, parents, trustees, sponsors of prospective new schools and all interested parties in the locality will have the opportunity to have their voice heard in the process. The final development for an area will be the mark against which all capital funding decisions will be made for that area for the next decade. The commission on school accommodation recently completed the public consultation process on the draft area development plan for the N4-M4 area and it will bring forward its report to me as soon as possible.

Special Educational Needs.

Every effort is made to ensure that children with special educational needs receive an education appropriate to their needs and significant additional resources have been made available to schools in recent years to enable them to provide for children with such needs. In this regard, there are dedicated resources deployed to support children with special educational needs in the primary system, including more than 2,600 resource teachers, more than 1,500 learning support teachers, more than 1,000 teachers in special schools, more than 600 teachers in special classes, nearly 6,000 special needs assistants, more than €30 million on school transport for special needs pupils and more than €3 million towards specialised equipment and materials.

In the light of the reality that pupils in the high incidence disability categories of mild and borderline mild general learning disability and dyslexia are distributed throughout the education system, my Department, in consultation with educational interests, developed a general model of resource teacher allocation to schools to support students in these disability categories. This model, announced by my predecessor in 2004 to come into effect from September 2005, was designed to put in place a permanent resource in primary schools to cater for pupils in these categories. The model was constructed in order that allocations would be based on pupil numbers, taking into account the differing needs of the most disadvantaged schools and the evidence that boys have greater difficulties than girls in this regard.

In the light of the possible impact on small and rural schools, I have asked my Department to conduct a review of the general allocation model. The review will be completed in the coming weeks and its outcome will be announced in time to be implemented for the next school year. With regard to the second level system, the level of resources being made available to support students with special educational needs has also grown significantly in recent years. In the current school year, my Department has allocated approximately 1,388 whole-time equivalent teachers and 630 special needs assistants to second level schools and VECs to cater for pupils with special educational needs.

My Department established the Special Education Support Service, SESS, in September 2003 to manage, co-ordinate and develop a range of supports in response to identified training needs. The SESS, which is hosted in the Laois Education Centre, provides a nationwide service for teachers and special needs assistants. As part of its response to the growing demand from teachers for support and training, the SESS is developing teams of trainers to deliver training in four specific areas, autism, challenging behaviour, dyslexia and inclusion. This training will be delivered locally through the education centre network.

In addition to the measures I have outlined, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, has been established as an independent statutory body with responsibilities set out in the National Council for Special Education (Establishment) Order 2003. The establishment of the NCSE is a further major step in ensuring that the requirements of children with special educational needs are identified and the necessary resources put in place in a timely and effective manner.

The issue of providing adequate resources to meet the special educational needs of relevant children will continue to be a priority for me. In this regard, my Department is continuing to take steps to develop the network of special educational provisions for children with special needs and I believe the steps taken in recent years and those in hand represent significant progress in the development of those services.

Question No. 475 answered with QuestionNo. 473.

Question No. 476 answered with QuestionNo. 474.

Schools Refurbishment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

477 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number and location of primary schools in County Kildare which are awaiting approval in respect of refurbishment, extension or replacement; when she expects to be in a position to meet the requirements as set out; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13446/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The information sought by the Deputy is not readily available in the format requested. However, if the Deputy has a query about any specific school, I would be happy to provide the information for him.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

478 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number and location of second level schools in County Kildare which are awaiting approval in respect of refurbishment, extension or replacement; when she expects to be in a position to meet the requirements as set out; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13447/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The information sought by the Deputy is not readily available in the format requested. However, if the Deputy has a query about any specific school, I would be happy to provide the information for him.

Question No. 479 answered with QuestionNo. 470.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

480 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of extra primary and second level teachers required to bring the pupil-teacher ratio into line with the commitments given in the programme for Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13449/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio at both primary and post-primary levels in recent years. At primary level, the ratio has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 17.44:1 in the 2003-04 school year. At post-primary level the pupil-teacher ratio has been reduced from 16:1 to 13.6:1 in the same period.

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. The number of teachers required to implement any future improvements in the pupil-teacher ratio will depend on the level of improvement introduced and on pupil numbers.

Questions Nos. 481 and 482 answered with Question No. 469.

Special Educational Needs.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

483 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if special needs teaching and support in this country compares with best practice in other European jurisdictions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13452/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The position is that the teaching and supports provided for schools for pupils with special educational needs in this country compare favourably with the practices in other jurisdictions, including European jurisdictions. In responding to the needs of pupils with special educational needs, my Department implements a range of supports in schools which continue to be reviewed in consultation with the colleges of education, universities, research centres, parents groups, teacher unions and other partners in the education process.

This approach will be complemented by the newly established National Council for Special Education, the functions of which are to carry out research and provide expert advice for the Minister for Education and Science on the educational needs of children with disabilities and the provision of related services, to provide a range of services at local and national level in order that the educational needs of children with disabilities are identified and provided for and to co-ordinate with health authorities, schools and other relevant bodies in the provision of education and related support services for children with disabilities.

The Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 establishes a new framework for the assessment of and provision for children with special educational needs and sets out a range of services which must be provided, including assessments, education plans and support services. The issue of meeting the needs of children with special educational needs will continue to be a priority for me.

Question No. 484 answered with QuestionNo. 474.

Questions Nos. 485 to 487, inclusive, answered with Question No. 445.

Military Uniforms.

John McGuinness

Question:

488 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Defence the person who has registered the copyright of the camouflage pattern used by the Defence Forces on their uniforms, backpacks and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12827/05]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

The camouflage pattern on uniforms to which the Deputy refers is also known throughout the Defence Forces as DPM, disruptive pattern material. The disruptive pattern used in the uniforms and other Defence Forces items was designed by the Defence Forces in the late 1990s following trials carried out with various patterns that were already available. The selected pattern is unique to the Defence Forces. No outside agency was involved in the design of the disruptive pattern. I am advised that the copyright of the pattern was not registered. Suppliers who are awarded contracts for the supply of goods are given use of the pattern by the Defence Forces.

John McGuinness

Question:

489 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Defence if all uniforms and like items are sourced here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12828/05]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

Military uniforms and like items are not sourced directly in Ireland. Procurement by my Department, including the Defence Forces, must be carried out in accordance with Government contracts procedures and the European Union directives, under which the award of contracts is primarily based on the quality of the product and cost. The Government Supplies Agency plays an integral role in tender competitions for the supply of uniforms and like items to the Defence Forces. Irish made products would be considered in the normal way if tendered in a procurement competition.

Naval Service.

John McGuinness

Question:

490 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Defence the age of each ship in the Naval Service; if there is a replacement programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12829/05]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

Details of the eight ships in the Naval Service fleet are as follows:

Type	Name	Commissioned
P21	LE Emer	1978
P22	LE Aoife	1979
P23	LE Aisling	1980
P31	LE Eithne	1984
P41	LE Orla	1985
P42	LE Ciara	1984
P51	LE Roisin	1999
P52	LE Niamh	2001

In the White Paper on Defence, the Government decided that the Naval Service will be developed around the provision of an flotilla of eight ships. In recent years two new ships have been delivered to the Naval Service and the service is operating with the recommended eight ships. The total cost of the two ships was €50 million. Both ships have proved to be tremendous assets to the Naval Service in carrying out its various day-to-day roles. The Government is committed to continuous investment in the equipment needs of the Naval Service that will maintain the eight ship flotilla.

Defence Forces Equipment.

John McGuinness

Question:

491 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Defence if the light tactical armoured vehicles are to be replaced; if the tender process has commenced; the number being purchased; the likely cost of same; the timeframe for delivery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12830/05]

John McGuinness

Question:

492 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Defence the plans to update or replace the armoured vehicles in the armoured and cavalry squadrons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12831/05]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 491 and 492 together.

The independent consultants, who are carrying out the review of local government financing, will finalise their report shortly. The consultants are assessing, inter alia, the totality of local authorities’ funding requirements to 2010 and the extent to which improved or alternative funding options may be required. The needs and resources model is used in determining the distribution of annual general purpose grants from the local government fund which provide about one fifth of authorities’ current funding requirements. In calculating general purpose allocations, the model takes into account a large number of relevant factors, including each local authority’s recorded population.

Recycling Policy.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

496 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the closure of the green waste recycling facility centre at Esker, Lucan to commercial green waste; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12798/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

The termination of the new house grants scheme, which was announced on 14 November 2003, arose from the necessity, in the context of the 2003 Estimates, for the Government to ensure a sustainable match between expenditure and resources, and to concentrate housing programmes on areas of greatest impact and social need. It is not proposed to reintroduce the grant.

However, through overall increases in supply, and increasing output under various affordable housing initiatives, the Government is seeking to improve access to home ownership for first-time buyers. These targeted measures, in particular, assist low income purchasers and this, in the Government's view, is a better means of improving the affordability of house purchase and using available resources effectively, than a general first-time buyer's grant which would over time become absorbed into the house price. Other general measures are in place through the tax system to assist first-time buyers, such as stamp duty concessions and improvements made in 2004 to mortgage interest relief.

Waste Management.

Barry Andrews

Question:

500 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cost incurred by his Department by waste awareness campaigns in 2004. [12915/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The total expenditure incurred by my Department on waste awareness campaigns for the year ended 31 December 2004 was €2,407,157. This comprises:

Race Against Waste	€2,112,160
Contribution to the North/South waste awareness project funded under the EU INTERREG Programme	€294,997
Total	€2,407,157

Likewise, promotion of recycling-recovery facilities is not divided into individual streams and subvention of operating costs for bring centres and civic amenity sites relates to the level of cost and of cost recovery and not to the types of waste accepted.

Town Boundaries.

Phil Hogan

Question:

504 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he plans to establish an independent commission to review the town boundaries for Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12931/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

510 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the date he received the proposed new scheme of lettings from Dublin City Council; the action which has been taken on this matter; the reason for the delay; the frequency with which he has been in contact with Dublin City Council regarding these proposals; the number of meetings there have been between officials; and if he will provide the minutes of those meetings. [13206/05]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

511 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that part of the proposed new scheme of lettings which he received in early 2004 is a measure to address a flaw in the previous scheme of lettings which was found by the Equality Tribunal to be in breach of equality legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13207/05]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 509 to 511, inclusive, together.

Dublin City Council submitted a revised scheme of letting priorities for approval to my Department in February 2004. Following a number of informal discussions between my Department and the city council, a full meeting was held in February 2005 to consider the revised scheme. This was then approved in April 2005 subject to the city council retaining the existing provision requiring award of points to an applicant and his-her partner for a further year and reviewing the position at the end of that period. It is understood that while discussions on this matter also took place between the city council and the Office of the Director of Equality Investigations, ODEI, no adverse finding was made by the ODEI against the city council on this issue. I am arranging to forward the Deputy with a copy of the record of the meeting of 8 February 2005.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Pat Breen

Question:

512 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the progress report for the Kilkee sewerage scheme in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13256/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Kilkee and Kilrush sewerage schemes, which are being advanced as a grouped project, are included in my Department's water services investment programme 2004-06 as schemes to commence construction this year. My Department is awaiting the submission by Clare County Council of a preliminary report for the schemes.

Rural Housing Guidelines.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

513 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will amend the new rural housing guidelines in order to give special protection to special areas of conservation, candidate special areas of conservation, high amenity areas and unique and threatened landscapes such as the Dublin mountains. [13258/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The network of statutorily protected areas which has been established in Ireland, includes nature conservation sites of European importance, special areas of conservation and special protection areas, known collectively as European or Natura 2000 sites and sites of national importance, natural heritage areas. The statutory provisions relating to the designation and protection of these areas are supported by the Planning and Development Act 2000 and relevant planning regulations. Section 10(2)(c) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 provides that a development plan shall include objectives for the conservation and protection of the environment, including, in particular, the archaeological and natural heritage and the conservation and protection of European sites and any other sites that may be prescribed for the purposes of this paragraph. Part XIII of the Act deals with amenities and makes provision, inter alia, for areas of special amenity and landscape conservation areas, while Part IV of the First Schedule to the Act also includes provision for landscape protection.

The guidelines which I have issued under section 28 of the 2000 Act, in relation to sustainable rural housing, do not affect the foregoing provisions. The guidelines point out that planning authorities must ensure that all planning applications for rural housing that involve sites in or that might affect an SAC, SPA, NHA, nature reserve, national park, refuge for fauna or flora or other areas of wildlife importance are referred to the national parks and wildlife service of my Department for comment.

The guidelines also point out that careful siting and location are central to sensitive development in the landscape, and call for planning authorities in assessing proposals to have regard to the extent to which they complement the landscape, avoid visual intrusion and help to maintain local landscape character. The guidelines call on planning authorities to have full regard to any biodiversity considerations in assessing proposals, including impacts on sites of biodiversity importance and potential cumulative impacts on biodiversity of large numbers of developments in the wider countryside.

The guidelines state that statutory designation of certain rural areas is not intended in any way to operate as an inflexible obstacle as such to housing development. The guidelines add that, in considering development proposals, including the attachment of planning conditions, in such areas, planning authorities should only consider approving proposals they are satisfied will not adversely affect the integrity of the designated area. Any such proposal must be subjected to an appropriate assessment of its implications for the area, if it is clear, on the basis of a preliminary examination, that the proposed development could have a significant effect on the area. All aspects of the proposal which could, in themselves, or in combination with other proposals, affect the area's conservation objectives should be identified.

I am satisfied that the statutory provisions in place to give special protection to areas such as those referred to in the question are adequate for their intended purpose. My Department has no proposals to amend the new rural housing guidelines.

Archaeological Sites.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

514 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide a copy of any correspondence received to date in 2005 from the Director of the National Museum regarding the Minister’s pending decision regarding archaeological works along the route of the proposed M3 motorway in the vicinity of the Hill of Tara. [13259/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

As indicated in reply to Question No. 57 of 13 April 2005, all the papers relating to this case will be available in accordance with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Acts when I have completed my statutory determination of the matters involved.

Road Network.

Denis Naughten

Question:

515 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will meet a delegation from Roscommon, Sligo and Mayo County Councils regarding their proposals for the R294 which was submitted to his Department; if he will approve funding for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13260/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

On 9 March 2005, Sligo County Council submitted to my Department a copy of a report, Improvement Study of Regional Road R294, prepared jointly by counties Roscommon, Sligo and Mayo. The report proposed a number of both short and long-term improvement works. Sligo County Council has been advised that, within the coming months, the Department will be inviting local authorities to submit restoration improvement programmes for the period 2006 onwards and that the short-term proposals identified in the report can, at the discretion of the authorities, be included in those programmes.

The council was also advised that it is open to the authorities concerned to include the long-term improvement schemes among their applications for specific grant funding which will be sought by the Department later this year in respect of 2006. Further advancement of the proposals in the report is a matter for the authorities concerned.

Waste Management.

Denis Naughten

Question:

516 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce a simplified licensing system for the movement of builders rubble in cases in which it is being distributed to a number of landowners as filling for yards, entrances and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13409/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

My Department has developed draft revised and updated waste permitting regulations. These draft regulations address a number of issuing, including the permitting of inert soil and construction type wastes which are being used for the purposes of land reclamation and other similar activities. I intend to publish these draft regulations shortly for public consultation.

Dáil Éireann debate - Tuesday, 26 Apr 2005

Education Welfare Service.

Gerard Murphy

Third Level Education.

Liam Twomey

Teacher Training.

Billy Timmins

Special Educational Needs.

Martin Ferris

Fergus O'Dowd

Literacy Levels.

Damien English

Special Educational Needs.

Bernard J. Durkan

Psychological Service.

Gerard Murphy

School Staffing.

Ruairí Quinn

Schools Building Projects.

Eamon Ryan

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Gay Mitchell

Olivia Mitchell

Richard Bruton

John Deasy

Higher Education Grants.

Pat Rabbitte

School Staffing.

Brian O'Shea

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Kathleen Lynch

Special Educational Needs.

Trevor Sargent

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Seamus Healy

School Discipline.

Paul McGrath

Liz McManus

Kathleen Lynch

Lisbon Agenda.

Richard Bruton

Third Level Education.

Simon Coveney

Seán Ryan

John Gormley

Educational Disadvantage.

David Stanton

School Accommodation.

Jan O'Sullivan

Physical Education Facilities.

Joe Sherlock

Standardised Testing.

Michael D. Higgins

Enda Kenny

Special Educational Needs.

Eamon Ryan

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Seán Crowe

Seán Crowe

Seán Crowe

School Text Books.

Joe Sherlock

School Administration.

Liz McManus

Computerisation Programme.

Bernard Allen

School Management.

Ruairí Quinn

Third Level Education.

Seán Ryan

Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 26 Apr 2005