Vol. 602 No. 6
13 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the recent statement from the new chief executive of Údarás na Gaeltachta that he plans to take a vigorous range of language initiatives to support and revitalise the Irish language as the community language of the Gaeltacht; if he will support Údarás na Gaeltachta in this respect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16667/05]
45 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the launch of the new Údarás na Gaeltachta Strategic Development Plan 2005-2010; his further views on whether this plan is sufficient in itself to maintain and develop the Irish language in Gaeltacht areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16668/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 45 together.
The strategic development plan recently published by Údarás na Gaeltachta sets out a range of strategic objectives for the five year period 2005-10 aimed at promoting the economic and social development of the Gaeltacht so that strong, self-confident Irish-speaking communities can achieve their full potential.
The plan, which is available on the Údarás website, www.udaras,ie, places particular emphasis on actions that will nurture and strengthen Irish as the principal language of the Gaeltacht and includes the following initiatives: to support native Irish speakers, particularly parents, so that they can live their lives fully through Irish; to support Gaeltacht communities so that they can strengthen and expand the social networks that support Irish as the principal community language; to support those learning the Irish language so that they can play a full part in the community life of the Gaeltacht; and to facilitate a revival of the Irish language in areas where there is a low level of usage.
This plan, with its broad focus on the developmental needs of the Gaeltacht in general, and linguistic needs in particular, complements my Department's strategic remit in these matters. I am satisfied that it accords with specific policy directions that I have given to Údarás in this regard in recent years, namely, to target at least 20% of capital expenditure towards Irish language-based investments and to allocate a specific amount of current resources towards Irish language promotional activities.
14 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the calculated level of job loss in Gaeltacht areas to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16683/05]
40 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the job creation targets for Údarás na Gaeltachta for the remainder of 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16682/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 40 together.
Under the national development plan, the objective of Údarás na Gaeltachta is to create 5,600 new jobs in the Gaeltacht over the seven year period 2000-06. To date, Údarás has achieved new job starts in excess of 5,000 in client businesses over the period 2000-04.
The information in relation to the employment situation for 2005 will not be available until end-2005, when the annual employment survey in client businesses has been completed, and it will be published subsequently by Údarás in its annual statement at year-end.
15 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of meetings that have taken place between his Department and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in Northern Ireland, regarding the proposed decentralisation of Foras na Gaeilge; if agreements have been reached in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16666/05]
46 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the decentralisation plans for Foras na Gaeilge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16665/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 46 together.
As I have previously indicated in my reply to Question No. 74 on the 9 November 2004, the re-location of Foras na Gaeilge staff to Gaoth Dobhair is subject to the agreement of the North-South Ministerial Council, NSMC. The relevant issues that require examination prior to submission of the question to the NSMC are being pursued on an ongoing basis. I understand that a further meeting will take place shortly between my Department, the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure and Foras na Gaeilge in that regard.
In general terms, my Department meets with Foras na Gaeilge and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure every four to six weeks to discuss a range of issues of common interest, including the relocation proposal.
16 D’fhiafraigh Ms Burton den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén slat tomhais atá aige maidir le maoiniú coláistí samhraidh sa Ghaeltacht agus san iar-Ghaeltacht. [16533/05]
Tuigfidh an Teachta gurb í an Roinn Oideachais agus Eolaíochta a thugann aitheantas do Choláistí Gaeilge Samhraidh agus a íocann deontas caipitíochta leo.
Ó thaobh mo Roinne féin de, cuirtear cúnamh ar fáil do theaghlaigh cáilithe sa Ghaeltacht a chuireann lóistín ar fáil do na foghlaimeoirí Gaeilge a bhíonn ag freastal ar na Coláistí. Tá an cúnamh sin méadaithe i mbliana ó€8 go €9 in aghaidh an lae. Fanann roinnt beag foghlaimeoirí freisin i mbrúanna/coláistí cónaithe seanbhunaithe lasmuigh den Ghaeltacht agus íoctar an cúnamh céanna sa trí chás atá i gceist — Gleann Maghair, Baile an Bhuinneánaigh agus Carraig a' Chobhaltaigh.
Chomh maith leis sin, cuireann mo Roinn cúnamh ar fáil i gcásanna áirithe ar mhaithe le cóiríocht do na cúrsaí.
Ní miste a rá nach gcuirtear aon chúnamh ar fáil ó mo Roinnse muna mbíonn an Choláiste aitheanta ag an Roinn Oideachais agus Eolaíochta sa chéad áit.
17 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to recent media reports that children as young as 14 are involved in the sale of cocaine in certain city suburbs; his views on the prevalence and widespread use of cocaine here; the efforts his Department is making to educate the public regarding the dangers of cocaine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16672/05]
52 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the increased rate of crack cocaine use here; the level of crack cocaine use he has identified; the extent of the crack cocaine problem here; if drug treatment services are equipped to deal with persons addicted to crack cocaine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16678/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 52 together.
As the Deputies are aware, my Department has overall responsibility for co-ordinating the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008. The strategy contains 100 individual actions, under the four pillars of supply reduction, prevention, treatment and research, to be implemented by a range of Departments and agencies.
In relation to the prevalence of cocaine use in Ireland, the NACD-DAIRU drug prevalence survey is generally regarded as the most reliable baseline data on drug prevalence in Ireland. That study, which surveyed 8,442 people aged 15 to 64 in Ireland and in Northern Ireland between October 2002 and April 2003, reported that 3.1% of the population had ever used cocaine, 1.1% had used it in the last 12 months and 0.3% had used it in the last month. Compared with similar comprehensive population surveys undertaken in other European countries, these figures suggest that Ireland is roughly average in terms of use.
There are no specific studies on the use of crack cocaine in Ireland and the only available figures come from the NACD-DAIRU drug prevalence survey. However, caution must be exercised in this regard as general surveys such as this are not good measures of "hidden" populations such as heroin and crack users. For information, in that survey, reported crack cocaine was very low — 0.4% reported lifetime use, 0.1% reported use in the last 12 months and there were no respondents in relation to last month use.
In relation to the media reports, I would be most concerned about such activity and I have asked my officials to discuss these claims with the Garda Síochána.
As I have outlined to this House on a number of occasions, I am confident that through the implementation of the actions in the national drugs strategy and the projects and initiatives operated through the local drugs task forces, LDTFs, the problem of cocaine use can be addressed. Each of the LDTFs has in place an action plan to tackle drug use in their area based on their own identified priorities and they continue to have regular contact with the local communities in which they are based.
These projects deal with supply reduction, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation for a range of drugs, including cocaine. We must be aware that most drug users engage in poly-drug use and, therefore, projects should be able to address this pattern of usage rather than concentrating on one drug to the exclusion of others.
I would add that, where cocaine usage is seen as an emerging problem in LDTF areas, it is open to the task forces to develop proposals and apply under the new emerging needs fund which I announced in January last. The LDTFs were invited to submit applications to the national drugs strategy team, NDST, for consideration by 31 March. In addition, late last year, I approved funding of almost €400,000 for a number of pilot cocaine projects which are currently being rolled out in selected task force areas. I will be examining the outcomes of these projects closely over the coming months.
With regard to treatment, the Deputies will be aware that there is no substitution treatment drug for cocaine, in crack or powder form, and existing services such as counselling and behavioural therapy are the best treatments available. In this context, it should be noted that the health services have recruited additional counsellors and outreach workers in the last number of years.
On the prevention side, the ongoing national awareness campaign on drugs has addressed the issue of cocaine through a well-received campaign. The campaign aims to tackle the perception held by some that cocaine use is safe. In regard to supply, the gardaí and Customs and Excise continue to target cocaine dealers and have very significantly increased seizures of cocaine in recent years.
In addition, the mid-term review of the strategy, which will be published in early June, will identify priorities for action in the remaining period up to 2008. The need to amend the strategy to reflect changing patterns of drug use will be considered in this context.
I can assure the Deputies that the Government will continue to monitor the situation regarding cocaine very closely.
18 D’fhiafraigh Ms Burton den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén míniú atá aige ar an titim atá tagtha ar líon na dteaghlach a fuair deontas iomlán faoi Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge i mbliana; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [16639/05]
Níl torthaí na scoilbhliana 2004/05 sin ar fáil go fóill ach cuirfidh mo Roinn an t-eolas cuí ar aghaidh chuig an Teachta chomh luath agus a bhíonn sé ar fáil.
San idirlinn, leagtar amach sa Tábla leis seo líon na dteaghlach a thuill an deontas iomlán faoi Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge i ngach contae do na scoilbhlianta 2001/02, 2002/03 agus 2003/04. Is amhlaidh go bhfuil méadú beag ar líon na dteaghlach a thuill an deontas iomlán don scoilbhliain 2003/04.
|
Contae |
Sc. bhliain 01/02 |
Sc. bhliain 02/03 |
Sc. bhliain 03/04 |
|
Contae Dhún na nGall |
737 |
722 |
727 |
|
Contae Mhaigh Eo |
83 |
68 |
74 |
|
Contae na Gaillimhe |
1,092 |
1,154 |
1,168 |
|
Contae Chiarraí |
219 |
216 |
196 |
|
Contae Chorcaí |
32 |
33 |
37 |
|
Contae Phort Láirge |
18 |
19 |
20 |
|
Contae na Mí |
20 |
21 |
20 |
|
Iomlán |
2,201 |
2,233 |
2,242 |
19 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to recent reported comments from a person (details supplied) that the lack of a national plan for the Irish language has serious implications for the Government’s commitment to language maintenance and revival; his plans to establish such a national plan; his views on the form and content which should be fundamental to any such plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16661/05]
21 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on whether there was insufficient discussion on issues relating to the Irish language, culture, and the Gaeltacht in the formulation of the national spatial strategy and the national development plan; his further views on whether the absence of such discussion is detrimental to the maintenance and development of the Irish language; his plans to address this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16662/05]
31 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to establish a special task force comprising representatives of the State and voluntary sector as well as specialists in language planning and policy to develop a national plan for Irish language planning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16670/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19, 21 and 31 together.
As already indicated on the record of the House, I have established Fóram na Gaeilge, which includes representatives of relevant State and voluntary organisations with expertise on a wide range of language policy and practice issues, to advise me in relation to the advisability of preparing a 20-year strategic plan with realistic goals for the Irish language in the State; the short-term strategic priorities for the preservation and the promotion of the Irish language within the State; the priorities regarding the implementation of the Official Languages Act; and the best and most practical ways to achieve progress with regard to the implementation of that work.
I envisage that the fóram's considerations will cover most facets of modern life and how best to promote the Irish language in the 21st century, including issues, as appropriate, that relate to the national economic and spatial development planning processes.
As the Deputy is aware, I asked members of the fóram to submit their views in relation to the development of an Irish language plan and related short-term priority issues. Work on these matters is continuing in my Department.
In relation to the national development programme, I draw the Deputy's particular attention to the provision of funding for the islands and Gaeltacht under the local infrastructure — non-national roads measure, the local infrastructure sub-programme — urban and village renewal measure and the Gaeltacht — islands harbour sub-measure.
The national spatial strategy has specific references to linguistic heritage, the Gaeltacht and islands, and cultural identities, and outlines policy responses to relevant areas.
20 Mr. Gilmore den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad iad na contaetha is mó ina bhfuil laghdú tagtha ar líon na dteaghlach atá tar éis deontas iomlán a fháil faoi Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge i mbliana; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [16636/05]
Níl figiúirí críochniúla don scoilbhliain 2004/05 ar fáil go fóill. Leagtar amach sa Tábla leis seo, áfach, líon na dteaghlach a thuill an deontas iomlán faoi Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge i ngach contae do na scoilbhlianta 2002/03 agus 2003/04. Cé go raibh laghdú ar líon na dteaghlach a thuill an deontas iomlán i gContae Chiarraí don scoilbhliain 2003/4 i gcomparáid leis an bhliain 2002/03, ní miste a lua go raibh titim ar líon na n-iarratas ó 432 teaghlaigh go 381 sa tréimhse chéanna.
|
Contae |
Sc. bhliain 02/03 |
Sc. bhliain 03/04 |
|
Contae Dhún na nGall |
722 |
727 |
|
Contae Mhaigh Eo |
68 |
74 |
|
Contae na Gaillimhe |
1,154 |
1,168 |
|
Contae Chiarraí |
216 |
196 |
|
Contae Chorcaí |
33 |
37 |
|
Contae Phort Láirge |
19 |
20 |
|
Contae na Mí |
21 |
20 |
|
Iomlán |
2,233 |
2,242 |
22 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the possible transfer of the social economy programme from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16659/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 324 on 26 April 2005. Discussions between my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment are ongoing.
23 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the measures his Department, in co-operation with other Departments, has taken to encourage the development of locally generated renewable energy in remote areas, including the islands. [16654/05]
In July 2004 I launched the Western Development Commission's publication "To Catch the Wind", which explores the potential for community owned wind farms in Ireland. This guide provides detailed information to communities who wish to become involved in wind energy development.
Funding is available under the Leader+ and area based rural development initiatives for environmentally friendly initiatives, including the provision of a range of assistance types for developing alternative-renewable energy and waste management initiatives using new technologies and know-how.
Funding can also be provided by Údarás na Gaeltachta to community based groups in Gaeltacht areas, including Gaeltacht islands, to investigate the possibility of establishing renewable energy projects.
The Deputy may also be interested in the alternative energy requirement, AER, programme, which seeks applications from groups to build, own and operate renewable energy generating plants, and to supply electricity from these to the Electricity Supply Board. This programme is administered by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.
24 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the action he is taking to roll out three-phase electricity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16536/05]
The availability of three-phase electricity supply is a matter for the electricity sector and not one in which I have a function.
However, my Department administers the farm electrification grant scheme, which subsidises the installation of electricity supply to farms located in disadvantaged areas, which are without supply or where supply is inadequate to facilitate their development and modernisation. Both single-phase and three-phase installations are eligible for assistance under the scheme.
Financial assistance for the conversion to three-phase electricity is provided also under the CLÁR programme which is operated by my Department. The objective of the programme is to address depopulation as well as decline and lack of services in rural areas. CLÁR funds the cost of the customer contribution to the ESB for conversion from single-phase to three-phase electricity for small business and enterprises in CLÁR areas with no more than ten employees.
25 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the way in which he has progressed the debate on public access to rights of way. [16655/05]
In February 2004, I established a countryside council called Comhairle na Tuaithe to address issues relating to waymarked ways and access. This decision followed consideration by the Rural-Agri-Tourism Advisory Group of a report presented by the Consultation Group on Access to Waymarked Ways. The establishment of a countryside council was the key recommendation of the report.
Comhairle na Tuaithe has the following aims: to ensure that all appropriate means are used to resolve conflicts that arise in relation to access issues and responsible enjoyment of the countryside; to ensure that all those with an interest and concern in the sustainable development and proper management of the recreational amenities of the countryside are fully consulted on their future management; to develop and update, as necessary, a national countryside recreation strategy; to raise awareness of the benefits to and responsibilities of recreational use of the countryside and to carry out research and training on related issues; to ensure that adequate funding is made available to allow the organisation to achieve these aims; and to examine the benefits and management of increased leisure use.
Comhairle na Tuaithe consists of representatives from the farming organisations, recreational users of the countryside and State bodies with an interest in the countryside. It has approached its work in the spirit of co-operation and through working groups which progress components of these aims.
In order to achieve its work programme, Comhairle na Tuaithe has established working groups to address specific required outputs. These groups are addressing: the examination of the issues surrounding access to the countryside; the development of a national countryside recreation strategy; and the development of a countryside code.
Comhairle na Tuaithe held a successful national conference to promote and develop its work, including the areas specifically outlined above. This event also served as an opportunity to progress the development of a countryside recreation strategy. There were approximately 200 attendees at the conference and the report of the conference has been published on the Department's website.
Comhairle na Tuaithe is continuing to meet regularly, facilitated by my Department, and hopes to have agreed a countryside code in the near future. Work is also ongoing in relation to the development of a national countryside recreation strategy. I look forward to receiving a report from Comhairle na Tuaithe which will report on matters in the near future. I will carefully consider any proposals which it may make to me.
As I have made clear on a number of occasions, I believe it is only through working together as a community on this issue and reaching an amicable agreement which accommodates all sides that these issues can best be addressed. We can then strengthen the positive image of rural Ireland, and crucially, further develop rural tourism.
26 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if it is intended to extend the scope and scale of grant aid through his Department for community, rural or Gaeltacht ventures in the future; if and when extra funding will be available from the dormant insurance account fund or other sources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16685/05]
118 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of community based, urban or rural groups to which he has extended financial assistance in 2005; his plans to enhance this programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16846/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 26 and 118 together.
I refer the Deputy to my previous answer to Question No. 212 of 1 February 2005 in relation to funding and supports for community schemes throughout the country in 2005.
Regarding the scope and scale of grant aid through my Department for community, rural and Gaeltacht ventures in the future, the provision in the Estimates for 2005 for the CLÁR programme is €13.7 million, a 13% increase on the 2004 outturn, and this will facilitate the continuation of investment under existing measures of the programme as well as providing scope for the introduction of new measures depending on the needs identified. As in the last three years, CLÁR will continue in 2005 to build on the successes achieved to date in regenerating rural areas. Expenditure of some €35 million over 2002-04 levered out a further estimated €36.5 million in related public and private expenditure into areas which otherwise would have been bottom of the list for infrastructure investment.
Under the community development programme, CDP, 185 community development projects will be funded in 2005. A further five CDPs are in pre-development at present. Funding to these five is likely to be announced later this year, subject to satisfactory workplans being furnished by these projects.
Under the local development social inclusion programme, 38 area partnerships, 31 community partnerships and two territorial employment pacts will be funded in 2005. There are no plans to expand the number of groups funded in 2005.
Under the funding scheme to support the role of federations, networks and umbrella bodies, 32 groups are currently being funded totalling €5.48 million over three years. Under the funding scheme for training and supports, 20 projects are currently being funded totalling €1.83 million over three years. The national anti-poverty networks are being funded to a total of €4.1million over three years.
The Department is funding volunteering through its existing grants to three volunteer groups totalling €829,595 over a three year period. In the new volunteering package, announced in March 2005, core funding will be provided to six further volunteer bureaux totalling €900,000 over the next three years. Funding totalling €150,000 over three years is being provided to Volunteer Centres Ireland for the recruitment of a development officer. A further €500,000 of local area partnership funding is being ring-fenced for measures that encourage volunteers and volunteering. A further €500,000 of the Department's Cohesion Fund will be spent on measures that will promote volunteers and volunteering locally.
Funding totalling €600,000 is being provided to support the young social innovators programme including the Annual Showcase awards, over three years.
Funding, totalling €330,000 over three years, is also being provided to the DIT community learning programme, CLP, which is an example of a new teaching method called service-learning, and it works by integrating classroom learning in any subject with suitable volunteering activity.
The programme of grants for locally based community and voluntary organisations comprises two schemes of once-off grants to local voluntary and community groups: the scheme of equipment and refurbishment grants provides essential physical supports for the local community and voluntary sector; and the scheme of education, training and research grants aimed at enhancing the capacity of local communities. I have increased the funding available for this programme to €2.9 million in 2005 from €2.7 million in 2004.
The scheme of community support for older people encourages and assists local support for older people by means of a community based grant scheme to improve the security of its older members. The scheme is operated on an annual basis. Funding is provided by way of grant aid to voluntary groups and organisations on behalf of older people in their community.
Funding can be provided for the following security equipment: window locks, door chains, door locks and security lighting, socially monitored alarm systems and smoke alarms. I have increased the funding available for this programme to €2.8 million in 2005 from €2.4 million in 2004.
My Department's expenditure on the islands has risen from just €2.314 million in 1997 to €13.228 million in 2004 with a further increased allocation of €15.862 million provided for in the 2005 Revised Estimates. This funding facilitates the provision of transport services to the mainland for island communities and assists in improving both public and social infrastructure on the islands. My Department is constantly seeking new ways of ensuring the future of sustainable communities on the islands and, in this context, I have recently announced the establishment of a new scheme, the enterprise scheme for non-Gaeltacht islands, to encourage enterprise development on those islands which do not come under the remit of Údarás na Gaeltachta.
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 Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Bill 2004 provides for significant changes to the disbursement process and for the establishment of a reconstituted board. The Bill completed its passage through both houses of the Oireachtas last Tuesday, 17 May.
27 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on recent remarks made by the Council of the West on the level of underspend in the BMW region under the NDP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16656/05]
38 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the efforts he has made to address the widening economic gap between the BMW region and the rest of the country; the significant new initiatives he has taken to improve rural development in the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16663/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 27 and 38 together.
I have noted the recent comments of the Council for the West concerning spending under the national development plan, NDP in the BMW region and share its concern regarding the underspend in the BMW region under the NDP.
It is estimated that €36 billion or some 90% of the profiled expenditure for the period of the NDP from January 2000 to the end of December 2004 has been incurred. The regional breakdown of this expenditure is €9.5 billion for the BMW tegion and €26.5 billion for the southern and eastern region representing 74% and 104% of profiled expenditure, respectively.
Table 1 sets out the regional breakdown of forecast expenditure in percentage terms for the operational programmes under the NDP for both regions for the period January 2000 to December 2004. These forecasts of expenditure were set in 2000 when the NDP was prepared.
|
Operational Programme |
National |
BMW Region |
S&E Region |
|
(€m) |
% |
% |
|
|
Economic & Social Infrastructure |
17,977 |
27 |
73 |
|
Employment & Human Resource Development |
10,432 |
30 |
70 |
|
Productive Sector |
4,968 |
36 |
64 |
|
BMW Regional |
2,880 |
100 |
— |
|
S&E Regional |
3,937 |
— |
100 |
|
Peace II |
141 |
100 |
— |
|
Technical Assistance |
8 |
38 |
62 |
|
Total |
40,343 |
32 |
68 |
The breakdown of actual expenditure incurred in percentage terms to December 2004 for each operational programme is set out in Table 2. These figures are provisional until approved by the NDP/CSF Monitoring Committee at its meeting in June 2005.
|
Operational Programme |
National |
BMW Region |
S&E Region |
|
(€m) |
% |
% |
|
|
Economic & Social Infrastructure |
19,175 |
22 |
78 |
|
Employment & Human Resource Development |
10,018 |
29 |
71 |
|
Productive Sector |
2,484 |
24 |
76 |
|
BMW Regional |
1,761 |
100 |
— |
|
S&E Regional |
2,658 |
— |
100 |
|
Peace II |
116 |
100 |
— |
|
Technical Assistance |
9.6 |
40 |
60 |
|
Total |
36,221 |
27 |
73 |
The economic and social infrastructure operational programme in the BMW region, the productive sector operational programme and the BMW regional programme have failed to date to achieve the forecast levels of expenditure.
Due to changes in the nature of the interventions supported by the productive sector operational programme, performance over the period of the NDP appears disappointing for this operational programme. However, the level of expenditure and its regional breakdown at the beginning of the NDP proved to be unrealistically high given the nature of industrial development in recent years.
Expenditure outturns show that infrastructural investment to date in the BMW region is behind the indicative target set out in the NDP. There has, however, been a rapid increase in spend-allocation on national roads in the BMW region between 2003 and 2005 with the allocation-spend increasing from €143 million in 2003 to €236 million in 2004 and €382 million in 2005.
The underspend in the BMW regional programme reflects the disappointing level of take up of some measures, and consequent lack of private funding, under that programme.
The rural development goal of my Department is to promote and maintain living and working populations in rural areas by helping to foster sustainable and culturally vibrant communities there. In that context, particular initiatives I have taken include: extension of CLÁR programme and development of the range of measures within its scope; establishment of the new rural social scheme; initiatives on small food producers and on rural enterprise support; implementation of the farm electrification grant scheme, for which I recently assumed responsibility from the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources; and establishment of Comhairle Na Tuaithe.
In addition, my Department also supports rural development through: the Leader programme; working in close co-operation with the Department of Agriculture and Food and the EU Commission in the negotiations on the adoption of the draft EU regulation on rural development for the period 2007-13; consideration, in co-operation with relevant Departments, of action on the review of rural enterprise supports; support of projects under the rural development fund; promoting debate and progressing rural development issues through the National Rural Development Forum; and continuation of cross-Border co-operation in rural development; leading the Rural Development Co-ordinating Committee under the NDP; participation as appropriate in interdepartmental committees on issues appropriate to rural development such as the national spatial strategy; continuation of support to the Western Development Commission and Údarás na Gaeltachta in the discharge of its functions and spend on the islands and the Gaeltacht.
28 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the safeguards which have been put in place following the recent events in Waterways Ireland concerning bullying; if he intends to publish the relevant report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16652/05]
On 4 April 2005, my Department and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure issued a joint statement in relation to an investigation into allegations of bullying and harassment and related matters in Waterways Ireland. I provided a copy of the joint statement to the Oireachtas Library on 4 May last.
In line with the normal confidentiality that applies to personnel matters, the Departments stated that they do not propose to publish the report of the investigators. This remains the position. However, their joint statement included a summary of the findings of the investigators' report, as well as the actions to be taken following the findings, as agreed by the Departments with the chief executive of Waterways Ireland.
Waterways Ireland is, at present, progressing these actions and, as confirmed in the joint statement, the Departments will be monitoring progress during 2005 in this regard.
29 D’fhiafraigh Mr. Gilmore den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad é an laghdú atá tagtha ar líon na dteaghlach sna Forbacha atá tar éis an deontas iomlán a fháil faoi Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge i mbliana; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [16637/05]
Níl torthaí na scoilbhliana 2004/05 don cheantar sin ar fáil go fóill ach cuirfidh mo Roinn an t-eolas cuí ar aghaidh chuig an Teachta chomh luath agus a bhíonn sé ar fáil.
San idirlinn, leagtar amach sa Tábla leis seo líon na dteaghlach i gceantar na bhForbacha a rinne iarratas faoin scéim agus an toradh a bhí ar na hiarratais sin le cúig bliana anuas. Cé nach bhfuil mórán athrú ar an líon a thuill an deontas iomlán i gcoitinne, bhí ardú beag le tabhairt faoi deara anuraidh. Ní miste a lua freisin go bhfuil líon na dteaghlach a rinne iarratas faoin scéim ardaithe ó 36 i 1999/2000 go 52 i 2003/2004.
|
Scoilbhliain |
Líon Iarratais |
Thuill Deontas Iomlán |
Thuill Deontas Laghdaithe |
Diúltaithe |
|
2003/04 |
52 |
21 |
22 |
9 |
|
2002/03 |
39 |
17 |
18 |
4 |
|
2001/02 |
47 |
18 |
17 |
12 |
|
2000/01 |
42 |
20 |
18 |
4 |
|
1999/00 |
36 |
17 |
14 |
5 |
30 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress which has been made in the implementation of the White Paper on Supporting Voluntary Activity; if a review of the implementation of the White Paper has been completed; the main findings of this review; if he remains committed to fully implementing all aspects of the White Paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16674/05]
In relation to progress in implementation of the White Paper the following is the position: under the funding scheme to support the role of federations, networks and umbrella bodies, 32 groups are currently being funded totalling €5.48 million over three years. Under the funding scheme for training and supports, 20 projects are currently being funded totalling €1.83 million over three years. The national anti-poverty networks are being funded to a total of €4.1 million over three years. The Department is funding volunteering through its existing grants to three volunteer groups totalling €829,595 over a three year period.
In the new volunteering package, which I announced in March 2005, core funding will be provided to six further volunteer bureaux totalling €900,000 over the next three years. Funding, totalling €150,000 over three years, is being provided to Volunteer Centres Ireland for recruitment of a development officer. A further €500,000 of local area partnership funding is being ring-fenced for measures that encourage volunteers and volunteering. A further €500,000 of the Department's Cohesion Fund will be spent on measures that will promote volunteers and volunteering locally. Funding, totalling €600,000, is being provided to support the young social innovators programme including the Annual Showcase awards, over three years. Funding, totalling €330,000 over three years, is also being provided to the DIT community learning programme, CLP, which is an example of a new teaching method called service-learning, and it works by integrating classroom learning in any subject with suitable volunteering activity.
The Combat Poverty Agency on behalf of the Implementation Advisory Group has been asked to prepare a manual of best practice principles based on appendices 2 and 3 of the White paper. The objective is to produce a practical guide based on these principles. A consultant was engaged to prepare this manual. The draft manual is under consideration in my Department.
The White Paper provides for a review of the Implementation Advisory Group and as part of that process my Department is currently examining practical measures to further advance key principles as set out in the White Paper.
As I previously stated, in my reply to Question No. 63 of 14 December 2004 the White Paper remains Government policy. However, the context in which White Paper policy is to be implemented has clearly changed with time. Hence, while the broad principles of the White Paper remain, it is appropriate that the mechanisms for addressing these be adjusted to appropriately reflect wider developments including contextual, programme and structural changes.
32 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grants given by his Department to community and voluntary organisations, by Dáil constituency, since 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16646/05]
My Department gives a variety of grants to community and voluntary organisations.
Details of the funding scheme to support the role of federations, networks and umbrella bodies in the community and voluntary sector are available on my Department's website, www.pobail.ie.
I am arranging to have the necessary information on other grants compiled by my Department and provided as a priority to the Deputy. It should be noted that it is not possible to give a breakdown by Dáil constituency as figures are compiled by county in all cases except for the local drug task force, LDTF, where the figures are given by area.
33 Mr. English asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason the regional drugs task forces have not reported to date on the drug problems in their areas; when they will be in a position to report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16658/05]
I am pleased to tell the Deputy that a sum of €5 million per annum is available to the regional drugs task forces to assist them in implementing their action plans.
To date, seven of the ten regional drugs task forces have submitted their plans to the National Drugs Strategy Team, NDST, for assessment and I understand that the remaining three are expected shortly. On receipt of these proposals, I will be making recommendations to the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion for approval as early as possible.
I am anxious that a number of new programmes and initiatives will be put in place in the regions in the coming months.
34 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the efforts he will make to co-ordinate the implementation of the national drugs strategy with the homeless strategy to combat drug use among the homeless population here; his views on whether there is a need to develop services for homeless persons who are also drug users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16679/05]
As the Deputy is aware, as part of my brief, I have responsibility for the national drugs strategy in the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, D-CRGA, and for the homeless strategy in the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, D-EHLG. In addition, the D-EHLG is represented on the National Drugs Strategy Team and the Inter-Departmental Group on Drugs, which I chair, and the D-CRGA is represented on the Cross-Departmental Team on Homelessness. In this respect, I am happy that there is ongoing co-ordination at both ministerial and official levels between the two areas.
In relation to services for homeless persons, the National Advisory Committee on Drugs, NACD, recently published a report on drug use among the homeless population. Arising from the report, the NACD has made a number of recommendations to me in relation to responsibilities in both Departments, which I am currently examining. I will also be discussing these recommendations with the other relevant Ministers and their Departments.
The NACD report has also had an input in terms of the discussions on the mid-term review of the national drugs strategy which will be published in early June and into the review of the homeless strategy which is currently ongoing.
The Deputy should note that a number of homeless services have already been developed and expanded to cater for the needs of people with drug or alcohol problems, including services provided by Merchant's Quay, Dublin Simon and the DePaul Trust. Among these services is a low threshold, harm reduction hostel in Dublin, Clancy Night Shelter, which caters for people with a history of drug use or who are currently involved in drug use. This is an important development as it was the first service in the country to actively cater for this group.
35 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will report on the preparation and possible introduction of legislation on charities regulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16651/05]
As I previously informed the House, preparation of the draft legislation to put in place a modern statutory framework for charities is a priority and work is proceeding accordingly.
To update the Deputy on developments since I replied to similar questions last month, I should add that public consultation undertaken for my Department by the Law Reform Commission in relation to charitable trust law reform has now concluded and examination of submissions received is currently under way.
36 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the new scheme announced recently by Foras na Gaeilge to fund Irish-speaking summer camps for children which will be located outside Gaeltacht areas; the level of funding his Department will provide for these camps; the level of interest from community and other groups that has been expressed in these new camps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16664/05]
I welcome this new scheme being introduced by Foras na Gaeilge. The scheme is being introduced to provide school-going children between the ages of seven and 14 with an opportunity to use and improve their skills in the Irish language during the summer months. The introduction of this scheme supports the mission statement of Foras na Gaeilge "To increase the use of Irish in everyday life".
Funding for this scheme will be provided by Foras na Gaeilge within the budget provided to it from my Department and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure.
I understand from Foras na Gaeilge that more than 60 information packs were sent out in relation to the scheme and that 30 applications have been received to date.
37 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the situation regarding the development of an electronic English-Irish dictionary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16680/05]
As I stated in my reply to Questions Nos. 52 and 71 of 14 December 2004, the English-Irish dictionary project is ongoing. I understand from Foras na Gaeilge that the process of commencing stage two of the project is under way. A preliminary notice in that regard has already issued in the EU Journal and further and more detailed information will be published very shortly to encourage market interest in advance of commencement of a formal tendering process.
39 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if willingness to participate in the Government’s relocation programme has been linked to promotion in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16648/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 383 of 8 February 2005.
No internal promotions made to date have been linked to decentralisation. However, my Department has indicated that it reserves the right to link future promotions to a willingness to move with the Department to a decentralised location. Ongoing discussions are taking place centrally to agree a protocol on promotions.
41 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when the third round of capital funding under the young people’s facilities and services fund in local drugs task force areas, and allocations in other approved urban areas, will be forthcoming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16660/05]
As the Deputy is aware, the young people's facilities and services fund, YPFSF, was established in 1998 to assist in the development of facilities, including sport and recreational facilities, and services in disadvantaged areas where a significant drug problem exists or has the potential to develop. To date, just over €85 million has been allocated or spent to support in the region of 450 projects, primarily in local drugs task force, LDTF, areas.
Proposals submitted as part of a third round of capital allocations in LDTF areas are currently being examined by the National Assessment Committee for the fund, which is chaired by my Department. I hope to make announcements in this regard in the near future.
As part of the overall fund, a number of services projects are also being supported in Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Carlow. Funding for these projects will continue in 2005.
42 D’fhiafraigh Ms O’Sullivan den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén céatadán de na teaghlaigh a chuir isteach ar dheontas faoi Scéim Labhairt na Gaeilge i gceantar Ros Goill i mbliana a fuair deontas; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [16638/05]
Níl torthaí na scoilbhliana 2004/05 don cheantar seo ar fáil go fóill ach cuirfidh mo Roinn an t-eolas cuí ar aghaidh chuig an Teachta chomh luath agus a bhíonn sé ar fáil.
San idirlinn, leagtar amach sa Tábla leis seo líon na dteaghlach i gceantar Ros Goill a rinne iarratas agus an toradh a bhí ar na hiarratais sin le cúig bliana anuas. Tá líon na dteaghlach a rinne iarratas faoin scéim ardaithe ó 33 i 1999/2000 go 40 i 2003/2004 agus an líon a thuill deontais — idir deontais iomlána agus deontais laghdaithe — méadaithe ó 7 dteaghlach go 29 sa tréimhse chéanna.
|
Scoilbhliain |
Líon Iarratais |
Thuill Deontas Iomlán |
Thuill Deontas Laghdaithe |
Diúltaithe |
|
2003/04 |
40 |
2 |
27 |
11 |
|
2002/03 |
31 |
2 |
14 |
15 |
|
2001/02 |
33 |
1 |
12 |
20 |
|
2000/01 |
23 |
1 |
12 |
10 |
|
1999/00 |
33 |
1 |
6 |
26 |
43 D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén tuairim atá aige i dtaobh chomhlachtaí (sonraí tugtha) atá ag sárú Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla agus an bhfuil plean aige féachaint chuige go bhfuil na hacmhainní ag an gCoimisinéir Teanga chun dul i ngleic leo. [16534/05]
Tuigfidh an Teachta, ár ndóigh, gur ar Bhord Bainistíochta chomhlachta phoiblí atá an fhreagracht a chinntiú go bhfeidhmítear de réir dea-chleachtais stiúrtha corparáideach taobh istigh den eagraíocht agus go gcloítear le dualgais reachtúla. Anuas ar sin, tá freagracht ar leith ag leibhéal faireacháin ar an Roinn Stáit a urraíonn an comhlacht.
Is é an ról atá ag an gCoimisinéir Teanga ná plé le gearáin agus faireachán a dhéanamh ar chur i bhfeidhm an Achta. Ag cur san áireamh nach bhfuil forálacha iomlána an Achta i bhfeidhm go fóill, agus gur i rith na bliana seo a bheidh an chéad 25 scéim ó chomhlachtaí poiblí ag teacht i bhfeidhm, táim sásta ag an bpointe seo go bhfuil dóthain acmhainní ar fáil d'Oifig Choimisinéir na dTeangacha Oifigiúla chun go mbeidh ar chumas an Choimisinéara a dhualgais reachtúla a chomhlíonadh go héifeachtach.
44 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he is satisfied that Foras na Gaeilge continues to fulfil its mandate in an appropriate manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16684/05]
I am satisfied that Foras na Gaeilge is doing very important work in promoting the Irish language throughout the island of Ireland. The Deputy will understand that it is a matter for the board of Foras na Gaeilge in the first instance to ensure the organisation continues to function in accordance with the legislative framework within which it operates and its corporate and annual business plans.
47 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he has had further contacts with the Community Workers Co-operative since he last answered questions in Dáil Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16650/05]
50 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will reconsider the decision to withdraw funding for the Community Workers Co-operative in County Kildare and elsewhere. [16535/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 50 together.
I have already dealt comprehensively with this issue in the House. I refer the Deputies, in particular, to my replies to Questions Nos. 4 and 5 of 22 February 2005, 360 and 367 of 22 March 2005 and 24, 27 and 37 of 14 April 2005. As I indicated in these replies, since the decision to discontinue funding under the national anti-poverty networks programme was communicated to the Community Workers Co-operative on 17 December 2004, my Department has facilitated the organisation by holding a series of separate meetings with its representatives.
As I have previously stated, I am fully satisfied that the Community Workers Co-operative has been afforded exhaustive access to appeal the decision. The group has not demonstrated a basis for reversing my decision at any of these meetings. Since the previous occasion on which I answered questions in the house on this matter correspondence has taken place at official level between my Department and the Community Workers Co-operative.
48 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will consider extending the recently announced health funding in RAPID areas to CLÁR areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16675/05]
In addition to supporting health related measures under the CLÁR programme, I have introduced a number of similar measures under the RAPID programme. In 2002 and 2003 CLÁR funding of nearly €500,000 was provided for more than 30 health projects in the selected areas. In October 2004 I announced a second round of minor health projects in the CLÁR areas covered by the north-eastern, north-western, western, mid-western, south-eastern and southern health boards. Each health board covering CLÁR areas was invited, in the first instance, to submit proposals for CLÁR funding to the Department of Health and Children. The total cost of the 95 projects subsequently approved by the Department of Health and Children and recommended to my Department for funding is nearly €7.5 million. Of this, the CLÁR programme has approved some €2.5 million in line with the funding ratio of €2 of health board or other funding for every €1 in CLÁR funding. The work will be carried out fully in the period October 2004 to December 2006.
Health projects to be funded include development, refurbishment and improvement of health centres and facilities, including ambulance services, the provision of people carriers and upgrades to social centres, day care centres, etc.
49 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress to date with the CLÁR broadband projects; the amounts allocated in 2004 and for 2005; the projects currently being funded and developed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16673/05]
In 2003, the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, on behalf of my Department, placed a call for broadband proposals in CLÁR areas. Fifteen centres were identified for a pilot trial of broadband technology in selected industrial estates, business and educational-training centres in the CLÁR regions. Following technical and financial evaluations, 12 locations were identified to receive broadband and grant aid under the CLÁR programme of almost €400,000 supported this rollout in 2004. Boyle, Carlingford, Cootehill, Mohill, Tubbercurry, Lismore, Tulla, Ballycastle, Clifden, Corraun, Carna and Kilcar are benefiting from high speed broadband connections at speeds equal to or better than most current market offerings, using the latest high speed wireless and satellite technologies.
In 2003, following discussions with the BMW regional assembly, my Department agreed to fund, under the CLÁR programme, a wireless based Internet service for three projects covering five locations in CLÁR areas in the BMW region at the rate of 80% —€254,709 — of the total cost. The projects are Dungloe, County Donegal, Killala, County Mayo, Enniscrone, County Sligo, Lanesborough, County Longford and Ballyleague, County Roscommon. At the end of 2004 the three projects were up and running.
In addition, CLÁR and Údarás na Gaeltachta are developing proposals to supply town fibre optic networks to the industrial parks in Belmullet, County Mayo and Dungloe, County Donegal. The projects, expected to cost in the region of €260,000 in total, would be funded on a 50-50 basis. I do not propose to place any further calls for broadband proposal in CLÁR areas as, having consulted with Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, it advised that the county and group broadband schemes run by that Department amply accommodate broadband supply to rural areas.
The objective of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources schemes is to promote the roll-out of broadband access through the establishment of sustainable broadband services in towns, villages, rural hinterlands and under-served areas of larger towns on the basis of local or regional authority co-ordination and community driven initiatives. They are open to all smaller and rural communities of less than 1,500 people. This enables local communities to work with a broadband service provider of their own choice or draw up and implement their own broadband plan, with the aim of launching a broadband service for residents and small and medium sized businesses in their respective areas.
51 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to increase funding for the joint language planning strategy between his Department and Údarás na Gaeltachta announced in 2004; his views on whether the €1.5 million budget is sufficient to allow this strategy to be fulfilled; if he will lobby for increased funds for this joint initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16669/05]
On foot of recommendations contained in the report of Coimisiún na Gaeltachta, I approved an initial provision of €1.56 million over three years —€520,000 per annum — for the language planning initiative to which the Deputy refers. This was intended to allow for a pilot programme under which an annual grant of up to a maximum of €130,000 would be available to four suitably qualified community based Gaeltacht organisations over a three year period to assist in the preparation and implementation of Irish language plans within their areas of operation.
Following a public call for applications, a process of assessment according to set criteria was carried out in co-operation with Údarás na Gaeltachta. Five groups were selected following this process and annual funding ranging from €70,000 to €110,000 has been allocated to the respective groups depending on their own anticipated expenditure. The €1.56 million budget is sufficient to allow for the full implementation of the pilot phase of the initiative. The provision of further funding will depend on the success of the initiative in meeting the goals set out in the various plans.
53 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount that has been spent by Údarás na Gaeltachta in regard to industrial developments for each of the years 2003, 2004, and to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16681/05]
I understand from Údarás na Gaeltachta that a total of €65.413 million has been spent on industrial developments in the Gaeltacht in the period 1 January 2003 to 30 April 2005. A breakdown by year is set out in the following table.
|
2003 |
2004 |
2005 (to 30 April) |
|
€26.897m |
€31.016m |
€7.5m |
54 D’fhiafraigh Mr. Costello den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad iad na moltaí, más ann dóibh, atá aige chun Gaeilgeoirí dúchais atá ar deoraíón nGaeltacht a mhealladh ar ais chun cónaithe sa Ghaeltacht; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [16640/05]
Tá réimse leathan gníomhaíochtaíá gcur chun cinn ag Údarás na Gaeltachta chun fostaíocht a ghiniúint agus an bonneagar sóisialta agus teanga a fhorbairt sa Ghaeltacht. Áirítear ar cheann de na cuspóirí atá ag an gclár forbartha sin daoine de bhunadh na Gaeltachta a mhealladh ar ais go dtí an Ghaeltacht. Tá feachtas earcaíochta speisialta ar a dtugtar "PostBaile" ag an údarás chun na críche seo agus tá eolas faoi ar fáil ar shuíomh Idirlín an údaráis, www.udaras.ie.
55 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the moneys which have to date accrued to his Department from the proceeds of the dormant account fund; the extent of the expenditure to date from this fund; the extent of the funding likely to become available to his Department from dormant insurance accounts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16686/05]
The Deputy will be aware that decisions on the disbursement of unclaimed moneys from the dormant accounts fund are currently a matter for the Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board. This is an independent statutory body, under the aegis of my Department, established under the Dormant Accounts Acts. The board 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.
Disbursements from the dormant accounts fund are for the purpose of assisting three broad categories of persons — those who are economically or socially disadvantaged, those who are educationally disadvantaged and persons with a disability. To date the board has approved 481 projects for funding totalling approximately €55 million, from the initial allocation of €60 million. In accordance with the board's disbursement plan, the bulk of this funding is initially being targeted at those areas designated as most disadvantaged.
To date, the only resources from the dormant accounts fund, which have accrued directly to my Department were in respect of funding for the rural social scheme. In July 2004, following consultation with the board and in accordance with the terms of the Dormant Accounts Act 2001, as amended, €10 million from the fund was transferred to my Department to partly finance the rural social scheme. The rural social scheme provides ongoing income and employment support to small farmers who can no longer make a viable living on the land and is one that fully meets the objectives of the dormant accounts scheme. In the context of the continued rollout of the rural social scheme, I will monitor the direct support provided by the dormant accounts fund and, if necessary, consult with the board about any further allocations from the fund.
The current value of the dormant accounts fund is in the region of €229 million. This figure includes amounts transferred to the fund in 2003 —€196 million, 2004 —€56 million and 2005 —€40.5 million. The €40.5 million transferred in 2005 includes a figure of €7.6 million from dormant insurance accounts.
The Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Bill 2004 completed its passage through both Houses of the Oireachtas last Tuesday, 17 May. The Bill provides for significant changes to the disbursement process and for the establishment of a reconstituted board.
56 D’fhiafraigh Dr. Upton den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil an plean chun Foras na Gaeilge a dhílárú "báite go ciúin"; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [16642/05]
Mar atá luaite agam cheana féin sa Teach seo, tá an cheist seo faoi réir aontú na Comhairle Aireachta Thuaidh/Theas. Tá na saincheisteanna ábharthacha gur gá mionscrúdú a dhéanamh orthu sula gcuirfear an cheist faoi bhráid na Comhairle á scrúdú ar bhonn leanúnach. Tuigim go bhfuil i gceist go mbeidh cruinniú eile go luath idir mo Roinn féin, an Roinn Cultúir, Ealaíon agus Fóillíochta agus Foras na Gaeilge chun na críche sin.
57 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the future transmission of TG4 in Belfast; if the Government will make funding available for this purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16676/05]
I have no ministerial responsibility for broadcasting issues. However, I am informed that Foras na Gaeilge has agreed to fund the maintenance costs of transmission equipment in Northern Ireland required to facilitate the transmission of TG4 there.
58 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the procedure to be followed in the case of a non-national wishing to adopt a non-national child for whom they were previously a legal guardian; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16838/05]
A person ordinarily resident in Ireland, regardless of nationality, may apply to the Adoption Board for an order for the adoption of a child who resides in the State. An order shall not be granted unless the child is more than six weeks old and, in the case of a child aged over seven, the board is satisfied that adoption is in the best interests of the child; the relevant consents to the adoption are either given or dispensed with; and the prospective adopters are eligible to adopt and are found to be suitable following an assessment process carried out by the Health Services Executive or an agency charged by it to do so. In practice, a non-national wishing to adopt a non-national child, both of whom are resident in Ireland, should make an application for adoption through their local office of the Health Service Executive.
59 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if an ambulance from Donegal was turned back at a hospital (details supplied) within the last fortnight; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16749/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. As the person in question resides in County Donegal, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's north western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
60 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to an academy (details supplied) in Dublin 22 and the valuable work it has done with marginalised children with disability and with those at risk of suicide; if she has plans to support the continuation of the academy’s work in the community; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16750/05]
The Health Act, 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1st January 2005. Under this 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 the provision of child and adolescent mental health services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the eastern regional area of the executive to reply directly to the Deputy in this matter.
61 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the scope of the development of health policy and services for persons who are deaf and hard of hearing; and the number of beneficiaries of such services on a national and county basis. [16752/05]
The national disability strategy provides a framework of positive action measures to support participation by people with disabilities in Irish society. The strategy consists of four elements: the Disability Bill 2004, the Comhairle (Amendment) Bill 2004, six outline sectoral plans and a commitment to multi-annual investment.
The strategic review of services being undertaken by my Department is examining the significant level of service provision which is already in place, focusing on specific issues which are of concern to people with disabilities and their families and carers, together with statutory and voluntary bodies in this area, with an opportunity to input into the planning and delivery of services over the coming years.
This Government announced on budget day a special disability multi-annual funding package with a total value of close to €900 million over the years 2006-09 and the Government has also agreed to allocate €300 million out of the revised capital envelope to these high-priority disability services.
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 such services for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. 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.
62 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in arranging an assessment by an occupational therapist for the provision of a special chair for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16753/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for occupational therapy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's south western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
63 Mr. Crawford asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of additional staff who have been recruited by the Health Board Executive and North-Eastern Health Board over the past five years; the number of positions which are in administration; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16754/05]
I understand the Deputy is referring to the number of additional staff in the former North-Eastern Health Board, now the Health Service Executive north-eastern area, as compared to the number of additional staff on a national basis. The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table.
It is estimated that 64% of health services personnel formally classified as "management/ administrative" are involved in direct service provision to the public. The report of the commission on financial management and control systems in the health service, chaired by Professor Niamh Brennan, concluded that there was no evidence to support the perception that non-frontline staff, rather than those providing a direct patient service, have disproportionately absorbed resources allocated to the health service.
|
Health Board/ Health Service Executive — Area |
Grade Category |
2000 |
2004 |
Change |
% Change |
|
All Areas |
Medical/Dental |
5,698 |
7,013 |
1,315 |
23 |
|
Nursing |
29,177 |
34,313 |
5,136 |
18 |
|
|
Health and Social Care Professionals** |
7,579 |
12,830 |
5,251 |
69 |
|
|
Management/ Administrative*** |
12,366 |
16,157 |
3,791 |
31 |
|
|
General Support Staff and Other Patient & Client Care |
25,250 |
28,410 |
3,160 |
13 |
|
|
Total |
80,070 |
98,723 |
18,653 |
23 |
|
|
North-Eastern Area**** |
Medical/Dental |
353 |
494 |
141 |
40 |
|
Nursing |
1,897 |
2,521 |
624 |
33 |
|
|
Health and Social Care Professionals** |
452 |
788 |
336 |
74 |
|
|
Management/ Administrative*** |
876 |
1,316 |
440 |
50 |
|
|
General Support Staff and Other Patient & Client Care |
1,569 |
2,163 |
594 |
38 |
|
|
Total |
5,147 |
7,282 |
2,135 |
41 |
Source: Health Service Personnel Census
Notes:
*Excludes Home Helps.
**The professionalisation of Child Care Workers / House Parents resulted in grade category shift of these grades from Other Patient Care to Health and Social Care Professionals in 2001-2002. This change together with other changes of a less sustantial nature have resulted in making direct comparisons over extended periods unreliable for these catogories.
***Includes all management/ administrative and clerical personnel. The Management/ Administrative Category includes — staff who are of direct service to the public and include Consultant's Secretaries, Out-Patient Departmental Personnel, Medical Records Personnel, Telephonists and other staff who are engaged in front-line duties together with staff in the following categories Payroll, Human Resource Management (including training), Service Managers, IT Staff, General Management Support and Legislative and Information Requirements.
****The transfer of St. John of God's, Drumcar to the North Eastern Area from the Eastern Area accounts for 531 WTEs of the increases shown.
64 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the average cost per annum of providing a bed for an older person in a community hospital in the respective Health Service Executive areas; the number of such beds in each area at present; her plans to increase the number of such beds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16755/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage, deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the national director for primary, community and continuing care at the Health Service Executive to investigate the matters raised and to reply direct to the Deputy.
65 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the speech and language hours and services for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if they will be given the maximum support and assistance. [16757/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, 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 speech and language therapy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's northern area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
66 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if they will be given the maximum support and advice. [16758/05]
The Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990 allows for the payment of a subvention towards the cost of such care based on a medical and means assessment. The process used in determining a person's eligibility for subvention is set out in the Nursing Homes Regulations 1993.
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, 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 the nursing home subvention scheme in County Dublin. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply direct to the Deputy.
67 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the recommendations of a report (details supplied) will be implemented; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16788/05]
The Health Act, 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, 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 chief officer for the executive's southern area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
68 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a nursing home subvention was not offered in respect of a person (details supplied); if fees of more than €40,000 per annum are required to meet a nursing home payment; her views on whether persons who have worked all their lives and paid their taxes should be expected to liquidate their home in order to pay for their upkeep in a private nursing home in the absence of appropriate public beds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16790/05]
The Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990 allows for the payment of a subvention towards the cost of such care based on a medical and means assessment. The process used in determining a person's eligibility for subvention is set out in the Nursing Homes Regulations 1993.
The placing of a person in a private nursing home is a private matter between the person or his or her representatives and the nursing home proprietor, as are the fees charged in these facilities. The subvention scheme was introduced to assist with the cost of private nursing home care. It was never intended that a subvention payment would meet the full costs of private nursing home care. It should be noted that the regulations governing means assessment were devised to try to provide an equitable system of payment and to direct available resources to those most in need. The Government is aware of the difficulties some people are having with respect to the cost of long-term care and are actively addressing the issues which have arisen.
Professor Eamon O'Shea of NUI Galway was commissioned to study the nursing home subvention scheme and recommendations arising from this study are being considered. These will be considered in the overall context of the future provision and funding of long-term care, both community based and residential. The Mercer report on the future financing of long-term care, commissioned by the Department of Social and Family Affairs, examined issues surrounding the financing of long-term care. A working group chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach and comprising senior officials from the Departments of Finance, Health and Children and Social and Family Affairs has been established following on from the publication of the report.
69 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of maternity bed units available at a hospital (details supplied); the number of births at the hospital for each of the past three years; the proposals to extend the maternity unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16795/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, 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 hospital services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's midland area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
70 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons who used the BreastCheck facility when it was in Kildare; the percentage of the total invited to attend; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16797/05]
The information requested by the Deputy is not collated by my Department. My Department has requested the director of BreastCheck to examine the matters raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
71 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of medical cards allocated in County Kildare for each of the last three years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16798/05]
The number of medical cards allocated in County Kildare for each of the past three years is set out in the following table:
|
Year |
Number of eligible persons |
|
2002 |
37,973 |
|
2003 |
37,304 |
|
2004 |
37,195 |
72 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the plans she has to relocate facilities (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16799/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, 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, including the management of facilities. Accordingly the matter has been referred to the chief officer of the south-western area of the Health Service Executive for investigation and direct reply.
73 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children his plans to extend facilities at a hospital (details supplied) in County Kildare in regard to extra respite care; the number of persons in receipt of respite; the number of persons on a respite waiting list; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16800/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of respite care services in County Kildare. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply direct to the Deputy.
74 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the diagnostic services and early intervention services in place for children and others with dyspraxia and developmental co-ordination disorders; the number of persons diagnosed and treated for dyspraxia and developmental co-ordination disorders each year since 2000; the success of these services in treating persons with these conditions; the efforts her Department has made or will make to improve these services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16811/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January, 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of such services for people with dyspraxia and developmental co-ordination disorders. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Health Service Executive's national director for primary, community and continuing care to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
75 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the service provision available for cancer patients from the HSE south eastern area referred to Cork University Hospital with specialised cancers following the resignation of a leading oncologist at the hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16822/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of cancer services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's southern area to investigate the matters raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
76 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the population criteria of 40,000 to 100,000 which consultants (details supplied) involved with a private hospital development in Waterford consider sufficient for locating radiotherapy services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16823/05]
My Department's understanding is that the catchment population proposed for a private radiotherapy service in Waterford is in respect of the south east area. The population in the region is approximately 423,540.
77 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the two additional consultant radiation oncologists with seasonal commitments to the HSE south eastern and mid-west areas will be appointed to Cork University Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16824/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January, 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of cancer services and the recruitment of consultant staff. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's southern area to investigate the matters raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
78 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the prospects there are for the HSE north western area to develop links with Northern Ireland to facilitate provision of radiotherapy for HSE north western area patients; the plans for the provision of radiotherapy for patients in HSE north western area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16825/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January, 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of cancer services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's north western area to pursue the matters raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
79 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans to close St. Luke’s Hospital, Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16826/05]
I am committed to significant additional investment in the development of a national radiation oncology programme in accordance with best international standards. With regard to St. Luke's Hospital, I assure the Deputy that I am committed to protecting its distinct ethos and to ensuring that its significant expertise plays a key role in the development programme that I will announce shortly.
80 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of private radiotherapy units which are to be provided in Dublin; if members of the expert group on the future of radiation services are involved with any of these projects (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16827/05]
My Department has not received proposals from any of the proposed private radiotherapy providers referred to by the Deputy. Accordingly, my Department is not in a position to advise if members of the expert group on the development of radiation oncology services in Ireland are associated with any of these proposed projects.
81 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) is entitled to a payment in regard to stated charges; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16828/05]
As the Deputy will be aware, the placing of a person in a private nursing home is a private matter between the person or his or her representatives and the nursing home proprietor, as are the fees charged in these facilities. The Health (Nursing Homes) Act, 1990 allows for the payment of a subvention towards the cost of such care based on a medical and means assessment. The process used in determining a person's eligibility for subvention is set out in the Nursing Homes Regulations 1993.
The repayment scheme for charges for publicly funded residential long term care does not apply to individuals in private nursing homes who have entered these homes under the nursing home subvention scheme.
82 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) will be called for a cataract operation; when this person was first referred to the consultant; the reason for the ongoing delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16829/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January, 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. As the person in question resides in County Roscommon, 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.
83 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if and when further psychological assessment will be carried out in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16834/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the matter referred to by the Deputy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
84 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will consider undertaking a public education and awareness campaign to counter the stigma of mental illness, emphasising the rights of persons with mental illness; the likely cost of such a campaign based on previous awareness campaigns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16865/05]
I appointed an expert group on mental health policy in 2003 with the specific task of preparing a new policy framework for the mental health services, updating the present policy document, Planning for the Future. The group, currently examining the future direction and delivery of all aspects of our mental health services, including the ongoing problem of stigma, is expected to publish its report later this year.
Following receipt of this report the development of an anti-stigma campaign will be considered by my Department in consultation with the Health Service Executive. I am also aware that the Mental Health Commission has indicated its intention to increase public awareness and interest in mental health services and, in particular, to initiate public awareness campaigns, solely and in liaison with other groups, which will help to dispel the stigma associated with mental illness.
85 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the average cost per card to the State of medical cards for persons under 65 years. [16867/05]
The information as requested by the Deputy is not routinely kept by my Department. The matter is being referred to the Health Service Executive for investigation and direct reply.
86 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the funding being allocated by the health services for the treatment of eating disorders. [16868/05]
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 personal social services. This includes responsibility for funding for mental health services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief executive officer for the Health Service Executive to reply directly to the Deputy in this matter.
87 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the funding being allocated in 2005 for specialist services for young persons with mental health problems. [16869/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes the provision of specialist mental health services for children and adolescents. Accordingly, my Department has requested the national director of primary, community and continuing care to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
88 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the funding being allocated for out of hours general practitioner services in 2005. [16870/05]
In 2005, €31.98 million has been allocated to the Health Service Executive for out of hours co-operatives, which includes €5.6 million additional funding. These figures do not include the fees of the participating doctors.
All areas of the Health Service Executive have developed out of hours co-operatives and services which now provide coverage in part of all of the 26 counties. Decisions on the geographical areas to be covered by co-operatives and any developments or expansions are for each area of the Health Service Executive to make, having regard to the service needs and the strategic, financial and other issues involved.
89 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the appropriate care at a treatment centre will be provided for a person (details supplied); and if this case will be examined as a matter of urgency. [16878/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. As the person referred to by the Deputy is a patient at Waterford Regional Hospital, my Department has asked the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to respond to the Deputy directly.
90 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Finance if he will put a mechanism in place to address the difficulty that may arise whereby a person making voluntary PRSI contributions may have some years when they have no tax liability and thus make no PRSI payment, which may have an impact on their pension. [16745/05]
I have clarified with the Deputy's office that the issue he refers to involves self-employed individuals who have reckonable income of less than €3,174 in a particular year and consequently are not liable to pay PRSI. Such individuals may be entitled to make voluntary contributions to the Department of Social and Family Affairs under the PRSI system, provided certain conditions are met, but they may not always be aware of this. The Deputy is seeking that a mechanism be put in place whereby these individuals are notified of their possible entitlement to make voluntary contributions, thus protecting their pension entitlements.
The Revenue Commissioners already notify those who are considered to have no net tax liability to contact the Department of Social and Family Affairs about their PRSI contributions. I have asked them to examine the feasibility of the Deputy's request with regard to those individuals who are not liable for PRSI because they are under the €3,174 PRSI threshold but who do submit a return of income to the Revenue Commissioners. I will write further to the Deputy when I receive a response from the Revenue Commissioners.
91 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the accelerated capital allowances on shipping granted from the year 2000 to date per annum; the amount of such accelerated capital allowances on shipping made available in respect of yachts and similar types; the large scale yacht investments valued at €5 million which qualified for capital allowances; and the grounds on which they so qualified. [16777/05]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that figures of claims for capital allowances in respect of yachts and similar types of ships and associated assets are not captured in such a way as to be separately identifiable. Claims for these reliefs are aggregated in tax returns with other capital allowances and do not distinguish between the claims made in respect of the different activities. Accordingly, the specific information is not readily available and could not be obtained without conducting a protracted investigation of the Revenue Commissioners' records.
92 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Finance the number of licensed moneylenders currently in operation in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16812/05]
My Department has been advised by the financial regulator that there are currently 53 moneylenders licensed in the State. Under section 93 of the Consumer Credit Act 1995, as amended, moneylenders are licensed by the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority. Part VIII of the Act sets out the conditions to be met by a person to obtain a licence and also governs the conduct of business by licensees.
93 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the decentralisation proposals for Athy and Kildare towns; the timescale of such proposals; if there are any outstanding issues in regard to such proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16853/05]
As part of the Government's decentralisation programme it was decided that 250 Revenue posts should be decentralised to Athy, County Kildare. It was also decided that a further 380 Revenue posts and 34 posts from my Department would be decentralised to Kildare town. The report from the decentralisation implementation group, dated 19 November 2004, which was accepted by Government, did not include Athy or Kildare as locations in the first phase of moves. It is expected that a further report will issue from the DIG dealing with all remaining locations and organisations not covered in its November report.
94 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Finance the way in which a park (details supplied) came to be in the hands of the OPW; if there were conditions or commitments made at the time of the transfer to the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16854/05]
95 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Finance the persons who have ownership or responsibility for a park (details supplied); if the OPW has granted its approval for the construction of a 3G telecommunications mast in the park; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16855/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 94 and 95 together.
The State purchased 11 acres of the park referred to from former Senator, Margaret Pearse, in 1967. The remainder of the property was settled on two trustees with the provision that on the Senator's death it would pass to the use of the State forever "to the intent that the same may constitute a memorial to Patrick Henry Pearse and William James Pearse and to their deeds and efforts for the freedom of Ireland and the preservation and promotion of the Irish Language". Senator Pearse died in November 1968. The property is managed as part of the State property portfolio by the Commissioners of Public Works. The commissioners have granted a licence to a mobile phone operator to erect telecommunications equipment within the park. The installation requires planning permission and a planning application has been lodged with the local authority.
96 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the total received in the operation of the metropolitan area networks to the end of 2004; and the projected revenue for 2005. [16743/05]
The metropolitan area networks are managed by e-Net, which holds the services concession contract. The contract provides for a return to the Minister on operating revenues received by the company. There was no payment in respect of the operation of the metropolitan area networks to the end of 2004. The first payment is expected to be made in the latter part of 2005.
97 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount spent on consultancy by the Central Fisheries Board and the regional fisheries boards in each of the past five years and to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16782/05]
I am advised by the central and regional fisheries boards that the amount spent to date on consultancy, excluding fees incurred for internal audit purposes, for each of the years 2000 to 2005 is as follows:
|
Fisheries Board |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
|
€,000 |
€,000 |
€,000 |
€,000 |
€,000 |
€,000 |
|
|
Central |
145 |
41 |
214 |
8 |
56 |
1 |
|
North Western |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Northern |
5 |
6 |
4 |
4 |
2 |
0 |
|
Southern |
15 |
34 |
35 |
15 |
5 |
0 |
|
South Western |
18 |
30 |
4 |
3 |
5 |
7 |
|
Western |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Eastern |
1 |
2 |
5 |
0 |
8 |
2 |
|
Shannon |
0 |
15 |
11 |
12 |
12 |
0 |
98 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the salmon returning to spawn in the rivers in the south-east are much less likely to survive due to drift-netting off the north-west, west and south-west coast, than salmon returning to the rivers in these areas; his proposals in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16783/05]
I am advised by the Marine Institute that no direct scientific information is available to assess the catch distribution of wild salmon returning to the south east coast. However, research has consistently shown that, while tagged, ranched fish have been found in a wide range of fisheries remote from their home waters, in general, the bulk of salmon taken from a given geographical area are taken in adjacent fisheries. This would indicate that the majority of the commercial harvest of salmon from the south east is most likely taken in adjacent fisheries in the south eastern area itself and in fisheries along the south coast. I am informed by the Southern Regional Fisheries Board that a large proportion of the commercial fishing quota in the southern region is caught inside the estuaries and up river by snap net and estuary fishermen in the Waterford district and the private licensees in the Lismore district, which signifies exploitation of a single stock. To gain more detailed information on the spread of catches along the south and east coasts, efforts are being made by the Marine Institute and the regional fisheries boards to capture and tag wild salmon smolts on the Rivers Laune and Suir. In addition, 11,000 tagged smolts were released in the River Suir. On their return in 2006 it may be possible to assess the pattern of exploitation by the various commercial fishing engines on these tagged groups.
99 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position regarding the impact of the works carried out on the River Nore in Kilkenny City with respect to the number of salmon reaching the spawning grounds in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16784/05]
I have previously advised the House that works carried out on the weir on the River Nore in Kilkenny City were undertaken on behalf of and are the responsibility of the Office of Public Works. Because of the impact that the new installation was having on the passage of migrating salmon up river, the regional fisheries board and the engineering division of this Department offered technical expertise to address the problem. I understand, from the chief executive of the Southern Regional Fisheries Board, that his staff, in co-operation with the engineers in this Department and the Office of Public Works, have installed a temporary extension to the fish pass in order to ameliorate the situation and allow for the passage of fish up river. I am also advised that a long-term solution is planned and it is expected will be completed during low water in the summer months. I am further advised by the board that some salmon encountered difficulties migrating to the spawning grounds during an eight day period at the beginning of January 2005. Low water levels throughout the catchment but specifically at Lacken Weir, Kilkenny, resulted in the hold up. While fresh redds were observed in the tributaries above Lacken Weir after the period, water conditions in the following few weeks prevented accurate counts being taken. Salmon migration in the Nore catchment occurs from May through to March, the main run being in August, September and October.
100 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of salmon and trout tags issued to the angling sector in each of the years 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16818/05]
I am advised by the Central Fisheries Board that the data collected and published in the Wild Salmon And Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Fisheries Statistics Report is constructed primarily with a view to measuring exploitation rather than tags issued to anglers. Consequently, the information sought by the Deputy is not readily available. However, since 2002, only one tag is issued with a one day angling licence up to the 31 May. Three tags per day are issued thereafter during the season. Only one tag per one day licence was issued during September 2004. Five tags are issued with all other salmon and sea trout angling licences. When confirmation is provided that those initial five tags have been used, a further allocation of five tags to a maximum of 20 per season is made. Confirmation of use is verified through the log book. Prior to 2003 there was no limit to the number of tags that could be issued in a season. Anglers are obliged under the terms of the licence to return log books and any unused tags to the regional fisheries boards at the end of the season. However, there are variations in the level of compliance. The national average percentages of log book return in 2001, 2002 and 2003 were 43%, 52% and 57%, respectively. In addition, not all anglers who have returned logbooks will return their unused tags. A comment is entered into the database in relation to those licence holders who have returned unused tags. These entries are not in a format suitable for numerical analysis and cannot therefore be quantified. The Central Fisheries Board needs to examine the development of the database since 2001 to establish if it could provide this information for 2001 to 2003. The 2004 statistics are have not been finalised. The following information is reproduced in the Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Fisheries Statistics Report 2003 to 2004 prepared by the Central Fisheries Board:
|
Year |
Licences Sold |
Logbooks Returned |
% Return |
|
2001 |
32,814 |
14,238 |
43 |
|
2002 |
35,024 |
18,088 |
52 |
|
2003 |
31,809 |
18,088 |
57 |
101 Mr. McGuinnes asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount that has been invested by the State in broadband under the programme for Government; the amount likely to be invested over the remainder of the Government’s term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16874/05]
A total of €64 million of European Regional Development Fund and Government funding was invested in the first phase of the metropolitan area networks programme in the years 2003 and 2004. A multi-annual budget of €105 million, or €35 million for each of the three years 2005-2007, has been set aside for the second phase of the MANs programme. A sum of €25 million has been earmarked for the county and group broadband schemes.
102 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will increase immediately the complement of labour inspectors to at least 75, in order that his Department can adequately and efficiently cope with the demands placed upon it; if he will implement the necessary measures which will provide for any legal and other professional support services to enable the labour inspectorate to operate more efficiently and effectively; if he will introduce legislation to provide for a statutory linkage between the labour inspectorate and the trade union movement, either through trade union participation or a liaison body or similar forum; and if he will increase substantially the penalties for non-compliance with employment rights legislation. [16779/05]
Following my recent announcement on 12 April, the number of labour inspector posts has increased to 31. The additional inspectors will strengthen the labour inspectorate's capacity to ensure workers receive their entitlements under employment rights legislation. Arising from paragraph 12.4 of the mid-term review of Sustaining Progress, and to assist in the preparation of proposals for consideration by Government, a discussion document was prepared by the labour inspectorate regarding its mandate and resourcing. This comprehensive discussion document was prepared and circulated to the social partners in January of this year so that their views could be obtained. All the issues raised by the Deputy are considered in the document. The discussion document covered the full dimension of issues that impact on the operation of the labour inspectorate ranging from the legislative framework right through to the operational aspects and staff development. The document also examined a range of possibilities regarding the operation of the labour inspectorate and offered a spectrum of possibilities ranging from a compliance regime where the initiative would move more toward the complainant, with the inspectorate offering support; for a model where the right of initiative would be with it to conduct a hands-on approach. The discussion document, which identifies 39 key proposals, is not prescriptive; rather it seeks to present 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. 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. The discussion document has been well received among the social partners with some comments received while others are awaited, although initial favourable views have been made known. An interactive phase on the discussion document will get under way shortly whereby the range of choices will be narrowed down and the issues raised by the Deputy will be considered in the context of the review.
103 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the funding being allocated by his Department in 2005 for the jobs initiative scheme. [16876/05]
€40 million has been allocated for the job initiative scheme in 2005.
104 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the cost incurred by the consumer strategy group in making its recent report. [16877/05]
The cost incurred by the consumer strategy group, which was established in March 2004 and whose final report was published yesterday, totals €463,640.58 to date.
105 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork has had her rent supplement terminated. [16751/05]
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 southern area of the executive has advised that, as a result of an administrative error, the rent supplement payment due on 5 May 2005 was not issued to the person concerned. The error was rectified by issuing a double payment to her on the next pay date. The executive has further advised that, in the course of a review of her rent supplement entitlement, the person concerned confirmed that there has been an increase in her household income. In addition to her one-parent family payment from my Department, she is receiving family maintenance payments of €120 a week, the first €95.23 of which is regarded as being for housing costs under rent supplement rules. She has been notified by the executive that her revised rent supplement entitlement is €62.20 per week, effective from 23 May 2005.
106 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the extent to which free travel is available or is likely to be so in respect of eligible persons who live in areas lacking in public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16841/05]
The free travel scheme is available to all people living in the State aged 66 years or over, to all carers in receipt of carer's allowance and to carers of people in receipt of constant attendance or prescribed relative's allowance. It is also available to certain people with disabilities and people who are in receipt of certain welfare type payments.
The scheme provides free travel on the main public and private transport services. These include road, rail and ferry services provided by companies such as Bus Átha Cliath, Bus Éireann and Iarnród Éireann, as well as services provided by over 80 private transport operators. The vast majority of private contractors providing services under the scheme operate in rural areas. The underlying feature of the scheme is the use of spare capacity on these transport services.
I am always willing to consider applications from licensed private transport operators who may wish to participate in the free travel scheme. However, while my Department pays transport providers to operate the free travel scheme, it is not in a position to provide transport services where none exist.
The issue of access to public transport in rural areas is being addressed through the rural transport initiative, managed by Area Development Management, ADM, on behalf of the Minister for Transport. My Department contributed €500,000 to the initiative in 2004 and I have secured €575,000 for 2005. This will ensure that free travel pass holders continue to have full access to community based transport services.
107 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in his next review of the carer’s allowance scheme, he will increase the number of hours a carer can work outside the home to 20 hours a week, particularly in a case in which the person being cared for resides in the same home as the carer. [16734/05]
The carer's allowance is a social assistance payment that provides income support to people who are providing certain elderly or incapacitated persons with full-time care and attention and whose incomes fall below a certain limit.
From August 1999, the full-time care and attention requirements were relaxed to introduce an element of flexibility for carers, while still safeguarding the needs and interests of care recipients. Under these arrangements, which were introduced in recognition of the economic and therapeutic value of work, carers may work for up to ten hours per week. However, the carer's allowance scheme is designed for full time carers and, accordingly, in allowing for flexibility to work, a balance needs to be struck between the needs of the care recipient and needs of the carer to maintain contact with the labour market.
Government policy is strongly in favour of supporting care in the community and enabling people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. The types of services that recognise the value of the caring ethos and which provide real support and practical assistance to the people involved will continue to be developed. All allowances and systems of support and the qualifying conditions will be kept under review.
108 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of persons in receipt of rent subsidy (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16801/05]
The concerns to which the Deputy refers relate to the treatment of maintenance payments. Half of any maintenance a lone parent receives can be disregarded as means for the purposes of assessing his or her entitlement to one-parent family payment. The means test for this and certain other social assistance schemes also provides for a disregard of up to € 95.23 per week of maintenance payments in instances where applicants have rent or mortgage interest obligations on their family homes.
The means test for the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, through which rent supplements are provided, requires that all types of household income, including maintenance payments for the lone parent and his or her children, must be taken into account in determining a person's entitlements under the scheme.
Given that up to €95.23 per week of maintenance payments has already been disregarded in the means test for primary scheme payment purposes to allow for housing costs, maintenance income up to this weekly amount is assessable in determining the appropriate level of additional rent supplement payable. However, depending on the particular family housing cost, up to €60 per week of maintenance in excess of this €95.23 amount can be disregarded for rent supplement means assessment purposes, to ensure that the family has the benefit of the extra maintenance income up to that level before it affects their rent supplement entitlements.
Overall, the means test rules and disregards are designed to give an incentive to lone parents to obtain maintenance to improve their household income position, while ensuring that families in that situation have access to appropriate levels of rent or mortgage interest supplement to be able to continue to meet their accommodation needs.
109 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost of fuel subvention allowances in 2004. [16872/05]
The aim of the national fuel scheme is to assist householders who are in receipt of long-term social welfare or certain types of Health Service Executive payments with meeting the cost of their extra heating needs during the winter season.
Under the scheme an allowance of €9.00 per week, or €12.90 per week in designated smokeless fuel areas, is paid to eligible households during the 29 week period from the end of September to mid-April each year.
In 2004 some 272,000 households benefited from the fuel allowance scheme at a cost of €84.7 million. Approximately 274,000 households will receive fuel allowances during 2005 at an estimated cost of €85.4 million.
110 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport when the West Link toll bridge will return to public ownership. [16732/05]
The current West Link bridge toll concession is, in accordance with the agreement between the NRA and NTR, due to expire in 2020.
111 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if legislation is required to make automated number plate recognition admissible as proof of commission of a speeding offence in cases taken before the courts. [16733/05]
Section 21 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 provides an appropriate and comprehensive basis for the use of apparatus, including cameras, for the purpose of establishing both evidence in respect of a range of traffic offences, including speeding offences, and for identifying the vehicles involved in the alleged commission of those offences. The parameters established in section 21 for the use of apparatus generally are stated in the broadest possible manner in order to facilitate the deployment of any technology currently in use.
Decisions relating to both the type of equipment and the technology to be deployed to support enforcement are matters for the determination of the Garda Commissioner. The equipment deployed by the gardaí presents evidence relating to the offence and records details of the registration plate of the vehicle concerned. In the case of speeding offences, the fixed charge notice issued following detection is served on the registered owner of the vehicle whose identity is established through inquiries made of the national vehicle file by the gardaí based on the registration plate details recorded by the apparatus used for detection purposes.
112 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of meetings he has had with representatives of the Departments of Finance, Enterprise Trade and Employment, Education and Science, Social and Family Affairs since September 2004; the written communication which has passed between his Department and the other named Departments since September 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16807/05]
Given the cross-cutting nature and breadth of functions of my Department, it is necessary for me to be in constant contact with representatives of other Departments. Some of these contacts would be through formal meetings, while others would be quite informal, through phone and casual contacts. Many meetings involve a wide range of officials from across Departments and public bodies and therefore, it is not possible to provide fully reliable information in relation to the departmental identity of each official.
Furthermore, to identify, list and describe all the written communications between my Department and the Departments mentioned by the Deputy would be an onerous task that would significantly disrupt the work of my Department. I ask the Deputy to advise if he is concerned with a specific issue, or issues, involving my Department. If so, I will be happy to have the matter examined and a response supplied to him.
113 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he has had formal meetings or discussions with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform regarding mandatory sentencing for drug offences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16808/05]
While I have not met formally with my colleague the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell, to discuss the issue of mandatory sentencing for drug offences, this matter was considered as part of the mid-term review of the national drugs strategy. It was also raised by a number of organisations in their submissions to the review, including some of the local drugs task forces, the Probation and Welfare Service, the Health Research Board and the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors.
I understand that the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform commissioned a study on the utilisation of provisions in the Criminal Justice Act 1999 for mandatory sentencing for certain drug offences. The Deputy should note that the study has since been published and is now available on that Department's website under the title "Research for the Department of Justice on the criteria applied by the Courts in sentencing under s. 15A of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 (as amended)."
114 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of applications for grant aid received in his Department from County Kildare; the number in respect of which he has offered assistance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16842/05]
I refer the Deputy to my answer to Question Nos. 116 and 117 of 14 April 2005.
In addition, the following County Kildare groups were funded under the scheme of community supports for older people in 2005 following their application under the 2004 scheme: Caragh and District Community Alert, €2,460; Naas Residents Forum Limited, €21,900; and the Irish Wheelchair Association, Clane, €30,000.
Under the funding scheme to support the role of federations and umbrella bodies, two groups in Kildare — Breaking Through in Leixlip and Accord in Maynooth — are funded over a three year period from December 2003 to December 2006. These groups, subject to satisfactory financial and progress reports, will receive €66,000 and €47,000 respectively in 2005.
For the sake of completeness I also draw the Deputy's attention to the decisions of the Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board which operates under the aegis of my Department. Up to the end of April 2005, the board had approved funding in respect of 11 projects based in County Kildare totalling approximately €2.7 million. A breakdown of these approved projects is provided in the following table. The drawdown of funding is subject to the satisfactory completion of legal contracts with individual groups.
|
Recipient |
Grant |
|
€ |
|
|
KARE, Co Kildare |
194,000.00 |
|
Hospitaller Order of St John of God, Celbridge, Co Kildare |
167,336.00 |
|
Board of Management, Scoil Phadraig Naofa, Athy, Co Kildare |
41,000.00 |
|
Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary, Co Kildare |
300,000.00 |
|
Kildare Youth Services (Curragh Youth Project) |
81,226.00 |
|
Camphill Communities of Ireland, Kilcullen, Co Kildare |
360,000.00 |
|
Athy Youth Project, Co Kildare |
58,775.00 |
|
Athy Travellers’ Club, Co Kildare |
50,420.00 |
|
Athy Town Council |
70,838.00 |
|
ASSET, Athy, Co Kildare |
100,000.00 |
|
Cheshire Ireland, Newbridge, Co. Kildare |
1,272,273.00 |
115 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, further to his previously expressed views with regard to difficulties in securing planning permission for single houses for the indigenous rural community, he is satisfied that the recently revised guidelines are sufficient to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16843/05]
My views on this matter remain as set out in my reply to questions of 14 April 2005, reference numbers 11630/05, 11631/05 and 11632/05.
116 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the total funding he expects to be able to avail of in 2005 from the dormant accounts fund for allocation to various voluntary or community groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16844/05]
The Deputy will be aware that decisions on the disbursement of unclaimed moneys from the dormant accounts fund are currently a matter for the dormant accounts fund disbursements board. This is an independent statutory body, under the aegis of my Department, established under the Dormant Accounts Acts. The board 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.
The board has to date approved 481 projects for funding totalling approximately €55.2 million, from the initial allocation of €60 million. In accordance with the board's disbursement plan, the bulk of this funding is initially being targeted at those areas designated as most disadvantaged.
The drawdown of funding is subject to the satisfactory completion of legal contracts between the individual groups and the board. As part of this process, groups are required to submit necessary documentation, such as agreed budgets, tax clearance certificates, evidence of insurance etc., to ADM before payments are actually made. I understand that the board and ADM anticipate that a figure in the region of €20 million will be drawn down during 2005 in respect of approved projects.
The Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Bill 2004 completed its passage through both Houses of the Oireachtas last Tuesday, 17 May. The Bill provides for significant changes to the disbursement process and for the establishment of a reconstituted board. Arrangements regarding further allocations from the fund are subject to the provisions set out in the Bill.
117 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of groups involved in the fight against drugs to which he has offered assistance in 2005; his plans to extend the eligibility and scale of the programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16845/05]
As the Deputy is aware, my Department has overall responsibility for coordinating the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008. It also has responsibility for the work of the local and regional drugs task forces as well as the young peoples facilities and services fund.
In this context, it should be noted that to date approximately €95 million has been allocated or spent to implement in the region of 440 projects contained in the two rounds of plans of the LDTFs. A further €12.8 million has been allocated to over 50 projects under the premises initiative which is designed to meet the accommodation needs of community based drugs projects and approximately €85 million has been allocated or spent under the YPFSF to support in the region of 450 facility and services, primarily in LDTF areas.
My Department has funding of €31.5 million available to it in 2005 to fund various drug programmes, which represents an increase of 18% on last year's budget. Through this funding, the ongoing work being done through the LDTFs and the YPFSF will be further developed and consolidated. In addition, a number of new initiatives are being supported. A new fund to tackle emerging needs in the LDTF areas is being put in place, a number of pilot projects to specifically tackle cocaine use are being rolled out in LDTF areas and funding to implement the action plans from the regional drugs task forces will be made available.
In addition, I will announce a third round of capital funding under the YPFSF in the coming weeks and a further round of funding through the premises initiative will be announced during the summer. The Deputy should note that additional administrative supports for the LDTFs have also been approved and will be put in place over the coming months.
119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent, on a county basis, to which he has awarded funding in 2005 to various eligible groups under the CLÁR programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16847/05]
120 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to broaden or extend eligibility for assistance under the CLÁR programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16848/05]
122 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of applications for financial aid he has received under the CLÁR programme, on a county basis; the number to which he has responded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16850/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 119, 120 and 122 together.
Areas in 18 counties, with a population of 362,000, are included under the CLÁR programme. All of these areas are eligible for funding under the various measures in the programme.
Some measures are demand led while, in other cases, the projects, by and large, are selected or recommended by the relevant Departments, State agencies, local authorities and Leader groups in consultation with my Department. In the case of the non-national roads measure, allocations are made to each local authority based on the county's percentage of the total CLÁR population. Also, some of the measures may have more relevance to particular CLÁR areas, for example, small sewerage schemes in the tax incentive areas of the upper Shannon, forestry access roads co-funded with Coillte and the local authority housing estate enhancement scheme.
I am satisfied with the eligibility criteria that currently apply for assistance under the measures. However, I keep the operations of the measures under review to ensure their continued efficient and effective operation.
The following table details the applications received to date in 2005 and their status. To date in 2005, 32 applications at a cost of nearly €2.8 million to CLÁR have been approved under the various measures. Of the further 506 applications on hand some 340 are projects submitted for funding by the local authorities from the €6 million non-national roads measure co-funded with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the €1 million similar measure co-funded with Coillte; 94 are proposals received from the local authorities for projects to be funded under the second CLÁR local authority housing estate enhancement scheme; and 23 are proposals received from primary schools under the third phase of the CLÁR primary schools outdoor play facilities enhancement scheme. These remaining applications are being examined as regards their eligibility for funding under the criteria applying to the measures concerned.
I expect, very shortly, to announce the roads projects, the allocations under the second CLÁR local authority housing estate enhancement scheme and the third phase of the CLÁR primary schools outdoor play facilities enhancement scheme.
|
County |
Applications Approved |
Applications on Hand |
||
|
No. |
€ |
No. |
€ |
|
|
Cavan |
0 |
0 |
33 |
396,707 |
|
Clare |
1 |
242,545 |
47 |
906,885 |
|
Cork |
8 |
342,457 |
39 |
598,450 |
|
Donegal |
1 |
23,750 |
76 |
726,090 |
|
Galway |
2 |
11,691 |
37 |
320,971 |
|
Kerry |
3 |
77,131 |
31 |
491,643 |
|
Leitrim |
1 |
80,000 |
51 |
357,813 |
|
Limerick |
0 |
0 |
1 |
15,000 |
|
Longford |
1 |
7,717 |
9 |
119,034 |
|
Louth |
0 |
0 |
10 |
87,764 |
|
Mayo |
8 |
1,891,117 |
66 |
1,597,389 |
|
Meath |
0 |
0 |
1 |
15,000 |
|
Monaghan |
0 |
0 |
7 |
75,058 |
|
Roscommon |
4 |
94,658 |
40 |
449,186 |
|
Sligo |
2 |
13,445 |
41 |
232,911 |
|
Tipperary North |
1 |
4,006 |
6 |
50,408 |
|
Tipperary South |
0 |
0 |
1 |
15,000 |
|
Waterford |
0 |
0 |
7 |
150,833 |
|
Westmeath |
0 |
0 |
3 |
32,052 |
|
Total |
32 |
2,788,516 |
506 |
6,638,192 |
121 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will consider broadening or extending the eligibility for persons for assistance under the RAPID programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16849/05]
I have no plans at present to extend the eligibility for funding under the RAPID programme, to people outside the RAPID areas. However, some anomalies relating to the existing RAPID areas have been brought to my attention. These are being examined in my Department.
123 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if an allocation of milk quota made in 1996 to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick and incorrectly forwarded to another person will be made available to them and retrospective credit made for this mistake. [16772/05]
Allocations of milk quota from the national reserve are granted on the basis of recommendations made by the Milk Quota Appeals Tribunal. The tribunal was established to consider and advise on applications for additional quota from producers who have suffered severe hardship in the context of the milk quota system. An application to the tribunal was first received from the person in question in 1996. The tribunal examined his application but did not recommend an allocation of quota on that occasion. The person's application was reviewed again in 1997 but no allocation was recommended. He applied to the tribunal in the 2004-05 quota year and his case was examined in March 2005. The tribunal recommended an allocation of quota effective from the 2004-05 milk quota year. Notification of this allocation has issued to the person and his co-operative. It is not the case that an allocation was incorrectly granted to another person.
124 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding farmers under 20 units for environment grants; and if a national scheme will be put in place (details supplied). [16780/05]
Consideration of further amendment of the farm waste management scheme, including the question of extending grant aid to farmers with less than 20 income units from farming, must await the finalisation of the ongoing consultations with the European Commission about the implementation in Ireland of the nitrates directive. The extension of funding to such farmers by means of a nationally funded scheme would require the approval of the European Commission by virtue of the EU provisions on state aids. I have previously stated that I intend to raise the cases of such farmers with the Commission in the light of the new circumstances arising from implementation of the nitrates directive.
125 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [16781/05]
The person in question applied for consideration of force majeure exceptional circumstances on 6 February 2004. After a full examination by the single payment unit and the independent single payment appeals committee of the circumstances put forward, it was agreed that force majeure should be applied in this case. As a consequence, 2000 and 2001 will be excluded and only 2002 will be used to establish single payment entitlements for the person. This represents the best possible position available to the person named under the force majeure measures of the single farm payment scheme. A letter notifying the person named of this decision issued on 1 November 2004.
126 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the estimated value of the intervention meat and dairy products made available in 2003 to charities and voluntary organisations. [16873/05]
In 2003, the value of intervention meat availed of by charities and voluntary organisations was €389,458. The value of butter availed of by the organisations was €82,542.
127 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be reached regarding the family re-unification application by a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16785/05]
Two visa applications were received by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform from a non-EEA national seeking to join her husband in the State, in 2003 and in 2004. The applications were refused because the visa officer was not happy to approve the visa in light of the insufficiency of documentation relating to her husband in Ireland. The documents provided with the application did not indicate that the applicant's husband was a refugee. I have decided to forward the visa application to the refugee applications commissioner for examination under section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended. When the investigation has been completed, which I understand should be in approximately two months, the commissioner will prepare and forward a report to the Department. On receipt of the report the application will be considered and a decision reached.
128 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when post-nuptial citizenship will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a reference number has not yet been issued as a result of their application on 9 March 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16744/05]
A declaration of acceptance of Irish citizenship as post-nuptial citizenship was received in the citizenship section of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform on 11 March 2005 from the person referred to in the Deputy's question. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the declaration in question has been located in the Department's citizenship section. The average processing time for such declarations is ten months. I have been informed by the staff of the citizenship division that they will ensure that the declaration is processed by reference to its date of original receipt and that the declarant has been issued with an acknowledgement letter containing a reference number. I will advise the Deputy and the person in question when the matter has been concluded.
129 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will issue in the visa application of a person (details supplied). [16746/05]
The visa application was sought to enable the wife of a non-EEA national employed under the work permit scheme to join her husband in the State. A person employed under the work permit scheme can apply for their spouse and minor children to join them in the State after they have been in the State for a year and have been offered a contract for a further year. An initial assessment has been undertaken on the application and further information has been sought to progress the application. The husband in Ireland has been asked to submit birth certificates for the two children included in the visa application. The applicants can expect a decision within a short period of time when the information sought by the visa officer has been received.
130 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application to the Land Registry Office for freehold on a property by a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary will be finalised. [16747/05]
I have been informed by the registrar of titles that an application for first registration which was lodged on 1 April 2005, dealing number D2005PS007661W refers. Due to the complicated nature of this type of case, which requires examination of an applicant's entitlement to the property concerned, it is not possible to estimate a date of completion at this time. Queries which issued to the lodging solicitor on 8 April and 5 May 2005 have been responded to. The matter is receiving attention in the Land Registry and will be completed as soon as possible.
131 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason there are no ban gardaí attached to the Sligo-Leitrim divisional drug unit; if there are plans to recruit ban gardaí to the unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16769/05]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda resources including personnel that the female garda previously attached to the Sligo-Leitrim divisional drugs unit has been allocated to detective duties in that division with effect from 14 February 2005. I have been further informed that the member of the force in question is still available to participate in operations targeting drug-related crimes, as members from the detective branch crime unit and divisional drugs unit come under the direct control of the detective inspector for the division. The strength of the drug units is regularly reviewed and adjusted as required.
132 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the witness protection programme; the number of persons who have been received into the programme in each of the past ten years; the cost of running the programme for each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16770/05]
The witness security programme was established in 1997, in response to the activities of organised criminal gangs, to facilitate people who are prepared to give evidence against alleged offenders. The programme continues to operate under the direct control and administration of the Garda Commissioner. It is not the practice and it would be contrary to the public interest to comment on specific details of the operation of the programme, including the numbers admitted to it. The cost of the programme was £41,608, or €52,831, in 1998; £86,373, or €109,671, in 1999; £149,704, or €190,085, in 2000; £361,955, or €459,588 in 2001; €829,898 in 2002; €1,183,482 in 2003; and €1,097,000 in 2004. The figure for 2004 relates to the allocated amount, as the actual expenditure figure is not yet available.
133 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16786/05]
The person in question was recently granted permission to reside in the State for a further period of six months following consideration of all the circumstances particular to his case. Notification of this issued on 3 May 2005. This permission to reside does not however extend to the two adult family members referred to in the details supplied by the Deputy.
134 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding funding for services for a foundation (details supplied) in County Cork; when announcements will be made regarding these grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16787/05]
I understand that an application for capital grant assistance under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006, EOCP, was submitted by the group in question to my Department in September 2004. The EOCP is a seven year development programme which aims to increase the availability and quality of child care to support parents in employment, education and training.
This application has been forwarded to Area Development Management limited, ADM, which is engaged by my Department to carry out detailed assessments on all EOCP grant applications on my behalf. As the Deputy may be aware, each application for funding undergoes a thorough assessment by ADM to ensure it meets the criteria for funding under the EOCP. I understand from inquiries I have made that ADM has been in dialogue with the group in question and is awaiting additional information from the group in order to advance the assessment process.
When the assessment on the project in question is completed, the application will then be considered by the EOCP appraisal committee, chaired by my Department, before I make a final decision. The group will be informed of the outcome in due course.
135 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding funding for a project (details supplied); the proposed dates for commencement of works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16792/05]
I can inform the Deputy that my Department is endeavouring to purchase a site, the subject of this question, from Kildare County Council. I wish to confirm that funding is available from my Department for the purchase of the site and for the building of a premises to meet the needs of the project in question. Planning permission has been obtained in accordance with the plans and specifications.
However, difficulties subsequently arose regarding the site boundaries which caused some considerable delay. I am now advised, by our legal representatives, that negotiations are nearing completion and the purchase of the site will be finalised shortly.
136 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the funding which will be provided for staffing grants for child care services (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16794/05]
The Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006, EOCP, is a seven year development programme and provides grant assistance towards the staffing costs of community based not for profit child care services which have a clear focus on disadvantage and which can demonstrate that they are supporting disadvantaged parents to access employment, education or training. The Deputy may be aware that the group in question has been approved staffing grant assistance to date totalling €490,000 and this covers the period to the end of August 2005.
The Deputy may also be aware that I am now extending to the end of December 2007 the terms of the existing staffing grants to groups which continue to deliver a child care service in accordance with their pre-agreed targets. To benefit from such funding the groups must continue to pay particular attention to the support of disadvantaged families and the implementation of a fee structure tailored to the differing economic circumstances of the client group and which ensures that child care places subsidised by the EOCP are targeted towards those most in need.
137 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of prison officers that were located at Spike Island prison and that have been relocated; the number relocated to each new location; if relocation is on a permanent basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16813/05]
I refer the Deputy to my response to Question No. 258 on 18 May 2005 regarding the permanent placement of staff temporarily assigned to other institutions as a result of the closure of Fort Mitchel place of detention.
The position regarding permanent placement for the staff temporarily assigned to other institutions as a result of the closure of Fort Mitchel place of detention is currently being considered and it is expected that staff will shortly be notified of the prisons to which they are being permanently redeployed. I am not in a position at this point to indicate where the staff involved will be redeployed permanently as I must have regard to the wider staffing needs of the service. I have arranged, however, to elicit the preferred prison locations to which staff would wish to be assigned so that some consideration might be given to staff preferences. However, it has been made clear to all concerned that the needs of the service remain the primary issue of concern.
With regard to the number of personnel involved, the position is that 93 staff were employed in Fort Mitchel institution. Of these, 58 were transferred temporarily to Cork, 30 were transferred temporarily to Limerick, two were transferred temporarily to Portlaoise, one was transferred to Arbour Hill and two retired.
We are anxious to progress this matter as soon as possible in the interests of the individuals concerned and the overall needs of the Prison Service.
138 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his future plans for Spike Island; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16814/05]
As I have already stated, as a result of the rejection by the members of the Prisoner Officers Association of the proposal for organisational change in the Prison Service, I have instructed the director general of the Prison Service to immediately close the current facilities on Spike Island and at the Curragh.
The Deputy will be aware that, following on the Government decision of November 2003, these facilities were mothballed. The majority of the staff from both institutions were transferred to other prisons on a temporary basis while a small number of staff remained to provide security and essential maintenance. These staff have now left the facilities in question and arrangements are now in train to effect the transfer of all of the staff in question to other prisons on a permanent basis to further reduce overtime expenditure.
Officials from the Prison Service, in conjunction with the Office of Public Works and professional advisers, are developing proposals for the construction of a new prison complex on Spike Island to replace the existing Cork Prison. The new facility will address the overcrowding and inadequate facilities associated with Cork Prison and will, in addition, offer significant improvements in the areas of work training, education and medical services as well as providing predominantly single cell accommodation with in-cell sanitation facilities.
139 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of convictions for the sale of illegal substances in each of the areas (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16819/05]
145 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of different types of illegal substances detected by gardaí in the Kildare-Carlow division of the Garda Síochána; the amount of such substances; the value of such substances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16859/05]
146 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the figures for the detection of persons selling illegal substances in each of the Garda divisions for the past year; the street value of illegal substances confiscated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16860/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 139, 145 and 146 together.
It has not been possible within the timeframe available to collate the information required by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy directly when information is to hand.
140 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the proposals there are to provide a 24 hour service at a Garda station (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16820/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of Athy Garda station as at 17 May 2005 was 16, all ranks. Athy Garda station is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily and there is a mobile patrol which patrols the Athy sub-district, dealing with and responding to calls on a 24-hour basis seven days a week.
Local Garda management is satisfied that the current opening hours of Athy Garda station are adequate to meet the current policing needs of the area and considers that an extension of the opening hours at Athy Garda station would only serve to confine to indoor administrative duties additional personnel who could be more effectively employed on outdoor policing duties.
141 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a dealing at the Land Registry office will be completed for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [16821/05]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for first registration which was lodged on 17 June, 2004. Dealing number D2004SM005092P refers.
I am further informed that a reply was received on 3 May 2005 to queries which had issued to the lodging solicitors on 22 June 2004. I am also informed that further queries issued to the lodging solicitors on 17 May 2005 and that the application cannot proceed until these queries have been satisfactorily resolved. However, I can assure the Deputy that on receipt of a satisfactory reply, the matter will receive further attention in the Land Registry.
142 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the application for naturalisation in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16830/05]
Applications for naturalisation on behalf of Wayne and Ryan Campbell were received in the citizenship section of my Department in September 1999. My predecessor as Minister, Deputy O'Donoghue, considered their applications under the terms of Irish Nationality and Citizenship Acts 1956 and 1986 and decided not to grant certificates of naturalisation in these instances. These decisions were communicated to the applicants in January, 2000.
To date, I am informed by my officials that no subsequent applications have been made in respect of the named persons.
143 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Question No. 129 of 14 April 2005, the reason the central question raised regarding the dangers of a life-threatening nature in the event of deportation to Democratic Republic of the Congo, has not been answered or referred to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16832/05]
I would refer the Deputy to the reply I gave to Questions Nos. 726 and 781 on Wednesday, 26 January 2005 and Question No. 129 on Thursday, 14 April 2005. The person concerned is awaiting deportation following a comprehensive examination of her asylum claim and of her application to remain temporarily in the State. Representations made regarding her medical condition, while not deemed to constitute grounds for revoking the deportation order and granting leave to remain in the State, are nonetheless being taken into consideration by the Garda National Immigration Bureau in arranging the timing of her removal. I understand that the person concerned is due to give birth shortly and the bureau intends delaying her removal until a date after the birth, when both mother and child are fit to travel.
I wish to address again the refoulement issues raised by the Deputy which I referred to in my replies to Questions Nos. 726 and 781 on 26 January 2005. I must consider 11 factors under section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, together with section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, prohibition of refoulement, when considering whether to deport a person.
The safety of returning a person, or refoulement as it is referred to, is fully considered in every case when deciding whether to make a deportation order. This means that a person shall not be expelled from the State or returned in any manner whatsoever to a State where, in my opinion, the life or freedom of that person would be threatened on account of his or her race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion. The legislation requires that this consideration is given before the deportation decision is made. As I mentioned previously, my Department uses extensive country of origin information drawn from different independent sources, including UNHCR, in evaluating the safety of making returns to third countries. I am satisfied that the procedures followed in this case have fully taken the refoulement question into account.
144 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if and when a D visa will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16839/05]
My Department has no record of the most recent visa application to which the Deputy is referring reference number 0231150.
However, an application with reference number 1516744 in respect of a person of the same name and date of birth as the applicant referred to, was approved under the delegated sanction scheme by the Department of Foreign Affairs on behalf of my Department in January 2005.
On foot of this decision, the applicant was issued, on 18 of January 2005, with a D visit visa valid until 30 April 2006, visa sticker number 620659.
147 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí in the Kildare-Carlow division for each of the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16861/05]
150 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí assigned to community work in the Kildare-Carlow division of the Garda Síochána; his plans to increase or provide members for such an initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16864/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 147 and 150 together.
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of Garda resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of the Carlow-Kildare division as at 31 December 2002, 2003, 2004 and as at 18 May 2005 is as follows:
|
Date |
Strength |
|
31/12/2002 |
323 |
|
31/12/2003 |
323 |
|
31/12/2004 |
323 |
|
18/05/2005 |
327 |
All gardaí have responsibility, inter alia, to deal with community policing issues as they arise. I am informed that there are currently four gardaí employed full time on community policing duties in the Carlow-Kildare division.
Garda resources assigned to the Carlow-Kildare division are continually monitored and reviewed, as part of overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.
In relation to Garda resources generally, I am very pleased that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with the commitment in this regard in An Agreed Programme for Government. This is a key commitment in the programme for Government, and its implementation will significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the force.
The Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of the Carlow-Kildare division will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda divisions 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 particular areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities as well, such as the need to very significantly increase the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda Traffic Corps. One thing I have already promised is that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into frontline, operational, high-visibility policing. They will have a real impact.
148 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of squad cars and personnel carriers in the Kildare-Carlow division of the Garda Síochána; his plans to upgrade the fleet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16862/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the total number of vehicles allocated to the division are as follows:
|
Vehicle Type |
Number |
|
Car |
37 |
|
Van/Personnel Carrier |
3 |
|
Motorcycle |
5 |
|
4x4 |
1 |
I am further informed that the Kildare-Carlow division has a fleet of modern vehicles and that the average age of vehicles in this division is 2.25 years.
Transport resources are allocated by Garda management in a way that best meets operational requirements and the maintenance of law and order. The allocation of transport resources within Garda divisions is kept under constant review and additional resources are allocated to divisions to meet their policing needs as appropriate.
149 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of interview recording units in the Kildare-Carlow division of the Garda Síochána; the number of barracks with such facilities; his plans to increase the number; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16863/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are 11 interview rooms in six Garda stations in the Carlow-Kildare Garda division which have been equipped with the specialised audio-video equipment for the recording of Garda questioning of detained persons.
I understand from the Garda authorities that a working group is examining the extension of these facilities to other Garda stations.
151 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for naturalisation in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; if this application will be expedited; the timeframe involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16879/05]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of my Department in July, 2004.
The average processing time for such applications is currently 24 months. It is likely therefore that a decision will be made in this case sometime around July, 2006.
I will inform both the applicant and the Deputy as soon as I have reached a decision on the application.
152 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will make a statement on the concerns of a person (details supplied) in relation to abuse at children’s homes in County Dublin. [16768/05]
The Residential Institutions Redress Board was established under statute in 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. The board is independent of my Department in the performance of its functions and as such it is not open to me nor would it be appropriate for me to intercede on behalf of an applicant to the board.
I would suggest that the person referred to in the Deputy's question should contact the redress board, or request his legal representative to contact the board on his behalf, in order to explore with the board how his application can be progressed.
153 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science when a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow will be provided with funding to replace physical education equipment it has been forced to use since the school opened in 1975; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16736/05]
My Department's school building section has not received a formal application from the school in question in relation to this issue. However, all primary schools receive an annual minor works grant from my Department.
Each school gets a standard rate of €3,809 together with a per pupil rate of €12.70.
It is open to the school management authority of the school referred to by the Deputy to use this devolved grant for the purchase of replacement physical education equipment provided it is not required for more urgent works.
154 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science when a special needs teacher will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [16737/05]
The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, which was established recently and which has been operational since 1 January 2005, is responsible for processing applications for special educational needs, SEN, supports.
Seventy one special educational needs organisers, SENOs, have been recruited throughout the country and are a focal point of contact for schools and parents.
My officials have been advised by the NCSE that no application for SEN supports for the pupil referred to by the Deputy has been made to the SENO. It is open to the school to contact the SENO directly regarding any special education needs that the pupil may have.
155 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will take account of the unique needs of smaller rural schools, reinstate three categories of learning difficulties (details supplied) and allocate resource hours on the basis of the needs of children with learning difficulties and not on the total enrolment numbers of their schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16738/05]
In the light of the reality that pupils in the high incidence disability categories of mild and borderline mild general learning disability and dyslexia are distributed throughout the education system, my Department, in consultation with educational interests, has developed a model of general teacher allocation for these disability categories. The general allocation, which also includes an allocation for pupils requiring learning support, is designed to put in place in primary schools a permanent resource to cater for the pupils in these categories.
The advantages of the new system are that: it puts resources permanently in place in schools and thereby facilitates flexible and early intervention; it reduces the need for individual applications and supporting psychological assessments for pupils in the categories involved; it puts resources in place on a more systematic basis thereby giving schools more certainty about their resource levels; greater flexibility is given to school management in the deployment of resources; and it makes the posts more attractive to fully qualified teachers.
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that my Department has now completed its review of the general allocation system of resource teaching support. The new model replaces that which was notified to schools in June 2004, which has been reviewed to take account of difficulties that it may have caused for smaller schools.
Under the new model, which I published recently, a new ratio has been introduced for small schools, with a lower appointment ratio for the first full post for each type of small school.
As differing pupil teacher ratios apply to boys' schools, mixed schools and girls' schools, for the purposes of the general allocation system, a small school, in the case of boys' schools, is a school with fewer than 135 pupils; in the case of a mixed schools it is a school with fewer than 145 pupils; and in the case of a girls' school it is a school with fewer than 195 pupils.
Small boys' schools will now qualify for their first post at 100 pupils. Small mixed schools will qualify for their first post at 105 pupils. Small girls' schools will qualify for their first post at 150 pupils.
All allocations up to the point for the first full post will be made on a pro rata basis. If a small boys’ school has just 50 pupils for example, it will get 0.5 of a post. The allocations between the point of the first full post and the cut-off enrolment point for small schools will stay at one post, that is, a small boys’ school with between 100 and 135 pupils will get one full post.
These changes represent a substantial improvement for small schools on the original model.
The introduction of this new system will involve the provision of an estimated additional 340 permanent posts in primary schools from September next. A further 320 posts are being provided on a temporary basis to facilitate the transition to the new system.
My Department is now devising school clusters in respect of allocations to be made under the general allocation system. These will be notified to schools shortly along with the details of each school's individual allocation. My Department is also finalising a circular for schools which will contain detailed information on how the new system will operate. It is intended that this circular will issue before the end of the current school year.
156 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science if automatic exemptions from Irish can be granted to pupils attending two special classes for students with dyslexia and emotional behaviour problems at a school (details supplied) in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16739/05]
As part of the primary school curriculum Irish is a compulsory subject. Exemption from the study of Irish may, however, be granted to primary pupils under certain circumstances outlined in Department circular 12/96. Under the terms of the circular delegated authority to grant exemptions from Irish, within the conditions laid down, has been vested in the individual school authority.
There is no provision in the Department's circular for the automatic granting of exemptions to pupils in special classes. In addition, one of the conditions for the granting of an exemption to a pupil with a specific or general learning disability is that evidence of such a disability must be furnished by a qualified psychologist and the psychological report must be carried out not more than two years prior to the application for exemption.
Irish is being omitted from the curriculum in the majority of special classes. Pupils attend special classes for a period of two years generally after which they return to mainstream where they should have access to Irish at their level.
The criteria applied for the inclusion of a pupil in a special class and the criteria used for granting an exemption from Irish are not one and the same. It does not follow that a pupil who has been in a special class becomes automatically entitled to an exemption from Irish. An exemption from Irish will be determined in accordance with the relevant circular and in particular will be underpinned by the recommendation from an up-to-date psychological report.
In the case of the two special classes in the school referred to by the Deputy it was noted that the psychological reports in respect of the pupils involved were well outside the two-year requirement. The school was accordingly requested to supply up-to-date psychological reports on the pupils involved. While the pupils in question were assessed as suitable for inclusion in special classes, a determination on a request for exemption from Irish cannot be processed in the absence of such reports.
157 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the assistance which will be given to provide an extra 37 school places for a school (details supplied) in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16740/05]
My Department has recently sanctioned the provision of a new 32-classroom school which is to cater for the amalgamation of two schools, one of which is the school referred to by the Deputy. This project has been sanctioned to commence architectural planning as part of the 2005 school building programme.
With regard to the provision of extra pupil places for September 2005, my Department has not received any application for additional accommodation from the school authorities. This school has consistently enrolled two junior infant classes each year and my Department has not received any request or proposal from the school to review this matter.
158 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will expedite the extension of circular 12/96 to afford pupils attending private schools the opportunity to obtain a Department exemption in Irish in cases in which dyslexia or other disabilities would make the learning of Irish by pupils an unnecessary and disadvantageous burden; and when the process of providing for exemptions for private school pupils will be completed. [16741/05]
The scheme, whereby exemption from the study of Irish is granted to pupils of recognised primary schools, is currently under review by my Department. The question of granting pupils in private schools exemptions from the study of Irish on the same basis as applies to pupils in recognised schools is being considered as part of this review.
It is hoped that this review will be completed shortly. Any new arrangements arising from the review will be notified to schools by way of circular letter.
159 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science her response to the request by a school (details supplied) in County Louth for an extra teacher; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16764/05]
The matter referred to by the Deputy is currently being considered by my Department's inspectorate. The inspector has indicated that he will be visiting the school shortly to discuss the application with the school authorities.
160 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will examine the need to appoint additional staff to a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16766/05]
The staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year and by reference to a staffing schedule. This schedule is outlined in primary circular 15/05 which issued to all primary schools recently. This is in line with guidelines agreed between my Department and the education partners.
According to my Department's records, the school referred to by the Deputy had an enrolment of 191 pupils on 30 September 2004. On the basis of this enrolment, the appointment of two additional mainstream class teachers is warranted for the 2005-06 school year. Therefore, the mainstream staffing of the school for the 2005-06 school year will be a principal plus seven mainstream class teachers.
161 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will consider extending the tuition grant for persons with learning difficulties; if additional speech and therapy facilities will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16767/05]
The home tuition scheme is primarily intended to provide compensatory instruction for pupils who have a medical ailment that is likely to cause major disruption of their attendance at school. In this context, my Department provides home tuition grants to pupils who cannot attend school at all or are absent for a significant proportion of the school year. Furthermore, while children are awaiting a suitable educational placement, my Department sanctions home tuition as an interim measure, if appropriate.
In addition, my 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.
Home tuition is only intended as an interim measure and my Department considers that school-based education provision is the most appropriate intervention for pupils with special educational needs. Therefore, my Department has no plans to extend the scheme to cater for children with learning difficulties.
The issue raised by the Deputy in relation to additional speech therapy facilities is a matter for my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children.
162 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science if sanction will be given for the appointment of a temporary teacher for a school (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16773/05]
The staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. The actual number of mainstream posts sanctioned is determined by reference to a staffing schedule which is finalised for a particular year following discussions with the education partners.
The mainstream staffing of the school referred to by the Deputy for the current school year is a principal and eight mainstream class teachers, based on the enrolment of 236 pupils on 30 September 2003.
The enrolment in the school on 30 September 2004 was 235 pupils. Based on this enrolment, the mainstream staffing for the school year 2005-06 will remain at a principal and eight mainstream class teachers.
To ensure openness and transparency in the system, an independent appeals board is now in place to decide on any staffing appeals. The criteria under which an appeal can be made are set out in Department primary circular 19/02 which is available on my Department's website. The appeals board will meet in June to consider appeals on the mainstream teaching allocation to schools for the 2005-06 school year.
The closing date for appeals is 3 June 2005. Appeals must be submitted to primary payments section, Department of Education and Science, Athlone, on the standard application form, clearly stating the criterion under which the appeal is being made. The application form is available from primary payments section, Department of Education and Science, Athlone or on my Department's website.
I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the operation of the independent appeals board.
163 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children of nine years of age and under in classes of more than 20 at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 15. [16774/05]
164 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children of nine years of age and under in classes of more than 20 at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 15. [16775/05]
165 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children of nine years of age and under in classes of more than 20 at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 15. [16776/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 163 to 165, inclusive, together.
The information sought by the Deputy is not readily available for 2004-05 as my Department is still collecting and finalising data for the current school year. Data for the 2003-04 school year is provided in the following table.However, the data may be out of date and may not reflect the current position in these schools.
Significant progress has been made in the area of school staffing in recent years. Over 4,500 additional teachers, including more than 3,000 resource teachers, have been employed. These additional teaching posts have been used to reduce class sizes, tackle educational disadvantage and provide additional resources for children with special needs. The pupil-teacher ratio has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 17.44:1 in 2003-04. Average class size has been reduced from 26.6 in 1996-97 to 23.9 in 2003-04.
Significantly smaller class sizes have been introduced in disadvantaged schools involved in the Giving Children an Even Break or 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.
|
School Name |
Number of children aged nine or under in class size of more than 20 |
|
Sacred Heart School, Huntstown |
630 |
|
Scoil Ciarán, Hartstown |
509 |
|
St Brigids, Beechpark |
478 |
166 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16789/05]
The application for special educational teaching support for the pupil concerned was referred to the local special educational needs organiser, SENO, for determination. The SENO examined the application and expressed the opinion that as the pupil's special educational needs appear to be within the high incidence disability category, his needs will be catered for under the general allocation model that I recently announced.
The new model replaces that which was notified to schools in June 2004, which has been reviewed to take account of difficulties that it may have caused for smaller schools. I can confirm that 660 additional special needs teaching posts will be put in place in primary schools from next September to facilitate the implementation of the new general allocation system. The introduction of this new system will involve the provision of an estimated additional 340 permanent posts in primary schools from September next. A further 320 posts are being provided on a temporary basis to facilitate the transition to the new system.
My Department is now devising school clusters in respect of allocations to be made under the general allocation system. These will be notified to schools shortly along with the details of each school's individual allocation. This communication will clarify the position regarding the resource and learning support allocation available to the school which this child will be attending. It will be a matter for the school to make arrangements to provide teaching support to all pupils who qualify for such support from its general allocation, including the child referred to by the Deputy.
My Department is also finalising a circular for schools which will contain detailed information on how the new system will operate. It is intended that this circular will issue before the end of the current school year. My Department has been advised by the SENO that the pupil has been granted the services of a full-time special needs assistant. The school authorities have been notified accordingly and it is a matter for the school to make the necessary arrangements to fill this post.
167 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in regard to the marking of Irish essays in the leaving certificate examination, 80% of the marks are awarded for grammar while 20% are awarded for content; if this marking system is the optimum one for encouraging greater use of the Irish language by and among leaving certificate students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16791/05]
On foot of a Government decision, the State Examinations Commission was established on 6 March 2003. The commission now has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations. This includes the issue of marking schemes.
I can, however, advise the Deputy that the creative writing question in the leaving certificate higher level Irish written examination may take a number of forms, including reporting, a literature type creative story, a debate or address, an article for a newspaper arguing a number of points, and the more traditional essay type.
From a total of 600 marks available for the subject, 100 marks may be awarded for the creative writing question. The published marking scheme provides for 80 marks for the "quality of Irish displayed" not just grammar and the remaining 20 marks for the treatment of the subject matter.
The marking of the leaving certificate Irish examination is undertaken by experienced examiners appointed by the State Examinations Commission, who recognise the difference between major mistakes in syntax and minor grammatical errors. In marking this question the examiners consider the depth and breadth of the Irish displayed, as well as mastery of idiom, structure and grammar. I am confident that this is the correct approach.
168 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding funding for a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16793/05]
The project at the school referred to by the Deputy has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria, which was revised following consultation with the education partners. The project will be progressed in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2005-09.
169 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made in acquiring a school site for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare since her predecessor met with the board of management; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16815/05]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the site for a school, referred to by the Deputy, in County Kildare is at conveyancing stage. I anticipate that the matter will be concluded in the near future.
170 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if a school (details supplied) in County Sligo will have the same number of resource and learning support teachers in the 2005-06 school year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16816/05]
I trust the Deputy is aware that my Department has now completed its review of the general allocation system of resource teaching support. The new model replaces that which was notified to schools in June 2004, which has been reviewed to take account of difficulties that it may have caused for smaller schools. I can confirm that 660 additional special needs teaching posts will be put in place in primary schools from next September to facilitate the implementation of the new general allocation system. The introduction of this new system will involve the provision of an estimated additional 340 permanent posts in primary schools from September next. A further 320 posts are being provided on a temporary basis to facilitate the transition to the new system.
My Department is now devising school clusters in respect of allocations to be made under the general allocation system. These will be notified to schools shortly along with the details of each school's individual allocation. This communication will clarify the position regarding the resource allocation available to the school referred to by the Deputy. My Department is also finalising a circular for schools which will contain detailed information on how the new system will operate. It is intended that this circular will issue before the end of the current school year.
171 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is not being allowed to speak with the special needs assistant at their school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16831/05]
I wish to advise the Deputy that the responsibility for the recruitment and employment of special needs assistants, SNAs, rests with the board of management of individual schools. Any queries regarding access to SNAs by parents or guardians should be raised with the school in question. This would normally occur in the first place through the principal or, if necessary, it should be brought to the attention of the board of management of the school. As the Deputy is aware, the application for special educational needs, SEN, supports for the pupil in question is being examined by the local special educational organiser, SENO. The school authorities will be notified shortly regarding the outcome.
172 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if and when further psychological assessment will be carried out in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16833/05]
I understand that a psychological assessment has been carried out and that the pupil in question is receiving a range of services from the Health Services Executive. In addition, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, has approved the appointment of a special needs assistant, SNA, to support him in school.
Regular reviews of his progress are carried out, involving the school and the health services, and his parents have had a recent meeting with the school principal to discuss their concerns. The next joint review of progress is scheduled to take place this week. If a further educational psychological assessment is considered necessary as a result of that review, this can speedily be arranged under the scheme for commissioning psychological assessments.
173 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science when the rationale for a centre (details supplied) in County Cork as referred to in her last Dáil reply on the issue will be finalised and when work on the building will commence. [16880/05]
As I mentioned in my previous reply on this matter, there are a number of issues that remain to be clarified including the specific rationale and function of the centre as well as building and related technical requirements. This necessarily involves other bodies such as An Chomhairle Um Oideachas Gaeltachta and Gaelscolaíochta and the Department for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. As regards work on the building, when a decision is made on the most appropriate delivery method for this project, it will be progressed in the context of the school building programme 2005-09. I hope to make progress on these issues as quickly as possible.
174 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the number of schools using the Curragh training pool; the number of swimming clubs using the pool; the number of applications received; his plans to extend such facilities (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16803/05]
To date, a total of 15 schools have been granted permission to use the Curragh swimming pool. Additional applications to use the facility have been received in respect of a further eight schools and a total of nine swimming clubs. It is intended to expand the use of the pool as soon as possible and it is hoped to facilitate those applications at that stage.
175 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the number of personnel enlisted for each of the past three years; the breakdown of the enlistments between males and females; the number of Army personnel for the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16804/05]
The military authorities have been unable to furnish the information sought by the Deputy in the time provided. As soon as the information is available I will forward same to the Deputy.
176 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the decentralisation of the Department of Defence to Newbridge, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16856/05]
The Government decision on decentralisation provides for the transfer of my Department's Dublin based Civil Service staff to Newbridge, County Kildare. The number of staff to be relocated to Newbridge is 200. A total of 385 personnel, of whom 78 are currently serving in the Department, have declared an interest in relocating to Newbridge.
The Office of Public Works is currently in discussions with Kildare County Council regarding the possible acquisition of a site in Newbridge for the Department's new headquarters.
177 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence his proposals to improve sports facilities for members of the Defence Forces; the areas suggested for such investment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16857/05]
There has been an unprecedented level of expenditure on infrastructure and equipment for the Defence Forces in recent years. This was made possible by the Government's decision that pay savings arising from the reorganisation of the Defence Forces set out in the White Paper of 2000, along with proceeds from the sale of surplus properties, would be reallocated for investment in modern facilities and equipment.
Over €192 million was spent between 1997 and the end of 2004 on the capital investment programme for the upgrade of operational, training, accommodation and recreational — including sports — facilities for the Defence Forces. This year's Estimate for the Department of Defence includes a further €19.4 million for capital works.
The upgrade of training facilities for the Defence Forces, including sports facilities, has been a priority in my Department for a number of years and significant progress has been made to date. Works completed include: the construction of a new swimming pool, gymnasium complex, and the provision of all-weather pitches in the Defence Forces training centre, Curragh Camp; the provision of a new all-weather pitch in Monaghan military barracks; and the provision of a new gymnasium in Collins Barracks, Cork.
The construction of a new sports centre — including changing rooms, warm-up areas and showers — in the Defence Forces training centre, Curragh Camp, will go to tender soon and will be completed in early 2006. The provisional capital works programme for 2006 provides for the construction of a new gymnasium in McKee Barracks. It is expected that this project will commence in September 2006.
178 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the decentralisation of the Army headquarters to the Curragh, County Kildare; and the timescale of the proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16858/05]
The Government decision on decentralisation provides for the transfer of 300 Defence Forces headquarters staff to the Curragh, County Kildare. A site for the Defence Force's headquarters at the Curragh has been selected and preliminary planning in connection with the design of the building has commenced. It is envisaged that the relocation will take place in 2007.
179 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to a sewerage scheme (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16748/05]
The Buncrana sewerage scheme has been approved for planning in my Department's water services investment programme 2004-06, at an estimated cost of €4.7 million. My Department is awaiting submission of a brief by Donegal County Council for the appointment of consultants to draw up the preliminary report for the scheme.
A new hub centre to deal with the sludge from all wastewater treatment plants in Donegal is also to be constructed on the Buncrana site. I understand that the council has now appointed consultants to undertake the planning of this project.
180 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the impact of the new EU Directive on recycling electronic waste on independent electrical retailers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16765/05]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 140 of 18 May 2005.
181 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if persons registered on local authority housing lists and living in rented accommodation but deemed to be in need of rehousing will have their income disregarded when seeking rehousing by the local authority or seeking annuity or other local authority loans for the purpose of building a home or house for themselves; if those surrendering their local authority homes to the local authority will have their income, if excessive, disregarded when applying for a local authority home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16835/05]
Local authorities are responsible, under the Housing Act 1988, for assessing housing needs in accordance with their scheme of letting priorities. There is no general income threshold set by my Department for local authority housing. In making the assessment of housing need, local authorities have regard, inter alia, to the income and family circumstances of the applicant. Persons who are, in the opinion of the local authority, unable to provide housing from their own resources, are eligible for local authority housing.
Housing loans are provided by local authorities for those who wish to build or purchase their own home but cannot access finance from private institutions. To ensure effective targeting of resources to support households most in need, income limits are applied. The income limits distinguish between single earning households and those with two incomes, but do not take account of family size. Importantly, in assessing applicants for loans, local authorities take account of the household's ability to finance the loan based on their net household income.
Approved applicants for local authority housing, and tenants and tenant purchasers of local authority dwellings, and tenants, for more than one year, of capital loan and subsidy scheme housing surrendering their dwellings are exempt from the above income eligibility limit requirements for house purchase loans.
182 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding road improvements (details supplied) in County Kildare; the proposals to complete the improvements; the value of the site from an archaeological point of view; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16851/05]
The improvement of non-national roads in County Kildare is a matter for Kildare County Council to be funded from its own resources supplemented by grants provided by my Department.
To the end of 2004, my Department provided funding of €1,131,755 to Kildare County Council for road improvements at Ardreigh, Athy, and an allocation of €50,000 has been made in 2005 for the project. I understand that expenditure, to date, by Kildare County Council on this project has been mainly on a significant level of archaeological investigations. These have not been completed, to date.
