Vol. 609 No. 2
12 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on his attendance at the recent PDFORRA annual delegate conference in Athlone; the issues he addressed in his speech to the conference; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31992/05]
49 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on his attendance at the recent PDFORRA conference in Athlone; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32045/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 49 together.
On 5 October 2005, as Minister for Defence, I addressed the annual delegate conference of the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association, PDFORRA. I sought to make my address relevant, informative and positive and discussed topics of interest to military delegates, their colleagues and to the wider community. Those topics included the representative process, new terms of contract for post-1994 soldiers, the White Paper on Defence, bullying and harassment, future pay policy, equal opportunity and the review of measures with a view to maximising the number of women applicants into the Irish Defence Forces. I believe my speech was well received by the assembled delegates and I am grateful to the Deputies for their interest in my address which can be accessed from my Department's website, www.defence.ie.
Among the issues raised by PDFORRA were anti-bullying structures, appointment of an Ombudsman, availability of medical services, the new terms of contract for post-1994 soldiers and affiliation to ICTU. Some of these matters have been raised in other questions today where I will deal with them in greater detail.
13 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the level of interest of contract soldiers in serving in the Defence Forces’ overseas missions; his plans to encourage more contract soldiers to serve in overseas missions; the difficulties this situation is causing for the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31995/05]
I have already dealt with the recent changes made in the terms of enlistment of those personnel joining the Permanent Defence Force post-1994 in an earlier question and I would refer the Deputy to that reply.
In 2004 PDFORRA submitted a claim under the conciliation and arbitration scheme for a further review of the terms of service applying to personnel enlisting in the Permanent Defence Force after 1 January 1994. Following detailed and prolonged discussion on this claim a set of criteria has been agreed. The criteria meet PDFORRA's desire to provide longer careers in the Permanent Defence Force while continuing to address the Government's previously stated objective of having an appropriate age profile to meet the challenges of a modern defence forces. The criteria require that any person re-engaging must be able to continue to operate at their current level both at home and overseas on an ongoing basis. Re-engagements will be subject to the individual soldier meeting specified criteria in regard to physical fitness, medical category, successful completion of military courses of instruction, service overseas and conduct ratings. PDFORRA is currently in the process of balloting its members on the criteria which have been agreed.
The Defence (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1960 provides that an officer appointed or a man enlisted after the date of its passing is liable to serve outside the State with a contingent of the Permanent Defence Force despatched for service with international forces established by the United Nations. With the passage of time since 1960 all personnel of the Permanent Defence Force are now liable for such service. All personnel are therefore obliged to serve overseas as part of a UN Chapter VI peacekeeping operation under their terms of employment.
Under the 1960 Act service with an international United Nations force was confined to a force established for the performance of duties of a police character, Chapter VI. The Defence (Amendment) Act 1993 provided for service by members of the Permanent Defence Force in peace enforcement operations mounted under Chapter VII of the UN Charter. Anyone entering the Permanent Defence Force on or after 1 July 1993 is liable for service under the new arrangements.
Raising troops for overseas missions is the responsibility of the Chief of Staff. While Defence Forces personnel are liable under their terms of enlistment for overseas service, the current system for filling appointments on overseas units is generally by volunteers. It is only in circumstances where the requisite volunteers are not available that personnel are mandatorily selected. I am advised that of the 3,371 personnel serving who enlisted for general service since 1994, 2006, 60%, of these have served in overseas missions. A total of 1,042, 31%, have served in overseas missions on more than one occasion.
14 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Defence if he has proposals to lower the height requirement for entry to the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31905/05]
22 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Defence if there will be an update to the regulations governing minimum height for entry to the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31911/05]
31 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Defence his plans to change the height entry requirement for females and males into the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31942/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14, 22 and 31 together.
The minimum height requirement for entry to the Permanent Defence Force and the Reserve Defence Force is 162.5 cm, 5 ft. 4 ins, for both men and women. This limit was set in April 2002 based on the professional advice of the Medical Corps and the actual experience of training units. The advice at that time was that, having regard to the nature of the job, the duties of military service and the training exercises undertaken by members of the Defence Forces, persons of shorter stature are more likely to incur back and lower limb injuries. A key element in military life is the need for personnel to maintain a level of fitness for combat readiness. Inherent in this physical requirement is the ability to carry heavy loads and execute physically demanding tasks in training and on operations. The personal load carrying equipment and personal weapon place considerable strain the musculosketal system. The advice in 2002 was that the recommended height requirement of 162.5cm, 5 ft. 4 ins, for entry is the minimum necessary to meet the demands of military life.
As I indicated to the House on 29 September that requirement is being kept under constant review. I have asked the military authorities to report to me on it. I will review the height requirement in the light of that report.
15 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Defence when he last attended a Council of Ministers meeting; the discussions held at the meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31943/05]
45 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on the EU Defence ministerial conference held on 13 October 2005, at RAF Lyneham, Wiltshire, England; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32042/05]
61 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on the informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers in the United Kingdom on 13 October 2005; the issues that were raised at this meeting; if any decisions were taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32006/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15, 45 and 61 together.
The Deputies will be aware that there is no Defence Ministers Council formation and that meetings of EU Defence Ministers have informal status.
Two meetings are normally held during each Presidency, one of which takes place as part of the General Affairs and External Relations Council, GAERC. I attended the Defence Ministers informal meeting, as part of the GAERC, in Brussels on 23 May 2005. Ministers discussed military capabilities, rapid response, were briefed by the Head of the European Defence Agency on the activities of the agency since its establishment, and discussed EU operations over lunch.
An informal meeting of EU Defence Ministers was held in the United Kingdom on 13 October 2005. However, due to prior engagements, I was unable to attend this meeting and I was represented by Government Chief Whip and Minister of State at the Departments of the Taoiseach and Defence, Deputy Tom Kitt.
The meeting began with a peace support operation capability demonstration by UK forces. Ministers also witnessed a demonstration of UK air-to-air refuelling capabilities. This was followed by a working lunch at which progress on Operation Althea in Bosnia and Herzegovina was discussed. As the meeting was informal, and not a decision-making forum, no formal conclusions were drawn. The informal meeting was followed by a meeting of the European Defence Agency Steering Board.
16 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Defence the cost and other implications in relation to an increase in the retirement age for captains, commandants and lieutenant colonels by two years each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32023/05]
The current retirement ages are 54 for captain, 56 for commandant and 58 for lieutenant colonel. Higher ranks have retiring ages ranging from 60 to 63 years of age. As there are no immediate plans to alter these I have not undertaken a detailed study on the cost implication of any change.
The 2000 White Paper on Defence and the earlier Defence Force review implementation plan, both in the context of a Defence Force personnel management system, recommended reduction to retirement ages and the introduction of short service commissions for some officers in the Defence Force. These measures were designed to address the shortage of junior officers, improve the age profile of officers and ensure mobility.
Any increase in retirement ages would not only have a cost implication but would also impact on the promotion outlets for officers further down the line of officer ranks. While it would permit some officers to lengthen their careers in these ranks it would, in the absence of short service commissions for other officers, also act as a disincentive for the officers who would be required to wait longer for promotion to a higher rank. It would also have an immediate impact on the number of positions available to be filled from the annual cadetship competition since the number of cadets offered cadetships is based on the projected number of officer vacancies which occur as a result of retirements, that is, age retirements, voluntary retirements and resignations.
Currently, very few officers retire at age 54 in the rank of captain or at age 56 in the rank of commandant. Officers more commonly retire in the rank of lieutenant colonel at the maximum retirement age for that rank of 58.
The Representative Association for Commissioned Officers has sought a common retirement of 58 for all officers. While this would see an increase retirement age for junior officers it would see a significant reduction in that of senior officers. My Department is looking at this proposal in the context of the implication for promotion arrangement, future intake of both short service and long-term commissions and, most importantly, the operational effectiveness of the Defence Forces.
17 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a website (details supplied) is selling jewellery and other material bearing the title “Óglaigh na hÉireann”; if the owners of the site have sought permission for the use of the title “Óglaigh na hÉireann”; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31924/05]
The presence on this website of a range of items for sale bearing the title "Óglaigh na hÉireann" has recently come to the attention of my Department and the Defence Forces. Section 16 of the Defence Acts 1954 to 1998 provides that "It shall be lawful for the Government to raise, train, equip, arm, pay and maintain defence forces to be called and known as Óglaigh na hÉireann or (in English) the Defence Forces". Accordingly, only the Defence Forces properly established are entitled to use the nomenclature "Óglaigh na hÉireann".
No permission for use of the title "Óglaigh na hÉireann" on the items featured on the website has been sought from the Department of Defence, nor could such permission be given.
It is a matter for the Garda authorities in consultation with the law offices of the State to determine whether use of the title "Óglaigh na hÉireann" in the manner outlined by the Deputy is illegal. However, as no permission for the use of the name "Óglaigh na hÉireann" has been given, I would invite the leadership of the political party whose name appears on this website to ensure that this material is removed for sale on the site.
18 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Defence the current level of capacity at military hospitals or convalescent facilities here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31902/05]
26 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on the state of the medical services available to members of the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31917/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 18 and 26 together.
The military medical services and their facilities exist primarily to maintain the health of the Defence Forces and to support them in operational and overseas activities.
The reorganisation of the Medical Corps, which was effected as part of the Defence Forces review implementation plan in November 1998, redirected the focus of military medical care from a predominantly hospital based service to one in which, primary, occupational and field support would continue to be further developed.
The Medical Corps facilities are as follows: St. Bricin's Military Hospital, Dublin; three military medical facilities, MMFs, located in Cork, Athlone and the Curragh; and 17 medical centres, one in each of the other permanently occupied military barracks.
St. Bricin's Military Hospital and the three military medical facilities have associated infirmaries for the care of "living-in" personnel, largely recruits and other training course students, who may become injured or ill. There are appointments for a physician as well as x-ray, pharmacy and screening audiometry facilities. Physiotherapy facilities are available at St. Bricin's Military Hospital and the MMF in Cork and the Curragh.
The focus of the military medical service is on primary care, acute trauma management, preventative medical programmes and field medical training. The range of services provided by the Medical Corps includes: a military occupational medical service; a primary medical care service; a secondary medical care service; a preventive medical service; provision of medicines and dressings; dental services; a field medical service; training; maintenance of medical records; and medico-legal services.
The current level of capacity of the hospital and medical facilities is as follows:
|
Location |
Bed Capacity |
|
St. Bricin’s |
19* & 23** |
|
MMF Cork |
10 |
|
MMF DFTC |
10 |
|
MMF Athlone |
1 |
*19 beds at an acceptable level of equipment and accommodation.
**23 beds in a closed ward. These beds are not equipped to current hospital or nursing home standard.
19 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Defence the way in which the closure of the apprentice school has impacted on the performance of the Defence Forces; the way in which technical personnel are sourced; the estimated cost of re-establishing the school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32025/05]
The Army Apprentice School at the former Devoy Barracks, Naas was closed in September 1998. There were only 28 apprentices in the school at the time. The annual costs of running the Army Apprentice School were estimated at about £2.85 million in 1998. Therefore, the average cost of training each apprentice had reached a level of £100,000 per annum per apprentice. These levels of expenditure were quite clearly unsustainable. The closure has not impacted adversely on the Defence Forces. There are no proposals to re-establish an Army apprentice school.
As part of the reorganisation of the Defence Forces in the 1990s, the national Defence Forces Training Centre was established on the Curragh to serve as the main military training centre for the Defence Forces. Apprentices will continue to be recruited for specific trades and crafts within the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps as and when required in response to identified service and skill needs.
More generally, technical personnel are sourced either through in-house technical military training within the Defence Forces or by the "direct entry" recruitment of persons who are already technically qualified and proficient within the discipline or specialty concerned.
The internal military programme of training for enlisted personnel comprises the technician training scheme and the recruitment and training of apprentices as appropriate. The trainee technician scheme was introduced in 1999 and provides modern technical and technological training to persons who are already serving within the Permanent Defence Force in an enlisted but non-technical capacity. The scheme involves both "in house" training in Defence Forces establishments and outplacement to FÁS and recognised external third level centres of education such as regional institutes of technology for academic modules of courses. The more traditional format of apprentice training is now largely concentrated within the Air Corps Apprentice School at Baldonnel. Apprentices, like the trainee technicians, undergo a mixture of "on the job" training within the Defence Forces, FÁS training and external academic modules leading to recognised qualifications. For both groups, therefore, the programme structure provides "on the job" training within the Defence Forces coupled with "off the job" external provision of academic and other specialist training by regional institutes of technology, the regional technical colleges and FÁS. In general terms, only very specialised training, which is not available externally from civil sources, is now provided directly by the Defence Forces themselves.
The distinct and different technical training and apprenticeship needs of the Army, the Air Corps and the Naval Service are all kept under regular review by the appropriate military authorities. The types of training to be provided to selected enlisted personnel under the trainee technician scheme, and the needs for apprentice recruitment, are determined by the particular skills requirements of the Defence Forces over time. There are also a small number of civilian technical staff who work with the Defence Forces as civilian employees of the Department.
20 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Defence if the two surviving Irish soldiers who survived the Niemba massacre in the Congo in November 1960 will receive Army medals, as have been awarded posthumously to the other members of the patrol; the reason for not awarding the medals to these men; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31998/05]
46 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Defence his views on the new evidence regarding the Niemba massacre contained in the recently published book, The Far Battalions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31704/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 46 together.
Since Ireland took part in its first United Nations Mission in 1958, Defence Forces personnel have performed approximately 54,000 tours of duty on 58 peace support operations worldwide. Because UN peacekeepers operate in strife-torn regions, practically every officer, NCO and private who has served overseas has been exposed to hostile events of one sort or another.
While I fully appreciate that the experiences in the Congo were particularly distressing, it is also the case that many other members of the Defence Forces who have served overseas have been involved in serious and disturbing incidents where death and severe injury have resulted. This is in no way intended to denigrate the distress suffered by those involved. Rather, it is to indicate that service in a war torn region inevitably exposes members of the Defence Forces to the possibility of involvement in incidents of a very serious and distressing nature.
The Defence Forces do award bravery and distinguished service medals in exceptional circumstances. Cases for the award of such medals are examined in great detail having regard to the circumstances pertaining in each particular case and on the basis of comparison with previous similar awards. In 1962 a military board considered the various cases presented in relation to action in the Congo, including the Niemba ambush, and made its recommendations. At that time, 22 cases were made for the award of the military medal for gallantry and only one such medal was awarded. In the case of the distinguished service medal, a military board was convened in 1965 where 120 cases were made for this award and of those, only 24 were awarded. Clearly, such medals are awarded only in rare and exceptional circumstances and the number of personnel recommended for the award of such medals is very small.
There is no award in the Defence Forces for survivors of hostile action. If such an award were to be created, it would have to be extended to all members of the Defence Forces who suffered in a similar way. As I have indicated, so many personnel who serve overseas are exposed to various degrees of hostile action, and therefore significant numbers would qualify for such an award.
There are awards made to all personnel who serve on overseas missions, which aim to recognise the contribution made by the members of each contingent serving on the peacekeeping mission and the difficult circumstances in which they have to operate. In this regard, the personnel referred to have received both a United Nations medal, for their service in the Congo, awarded by the UN, and the United Nations peacekeeping medal awarded by the Irish Government.
Neither my Department nor the Defence Forces have a copy of the publication referred to in the question and steps are being taken to acquire a copy.
24 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Defence if he will report on plans to recruit non-nationals into the Irish Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32044/05]
32 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Defence the steps being taken to broaden the membership of the Defence Forces and to recruit non-nationals to the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31916/05]
38 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Defence his plans to recruit non-nationals into the Defence Forces to address staffing shortages; the precise areas where staffing shortages exist; when he expects to commence this recruitment programme; the level of uptake and interest he anticipates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31991/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 24, 32 and 38 together.
Entry to the Permanent Defence Force is either through the cadetship competition, apprenticeship competition, general service enlistment or direct entry competitions which are held to fill vacancies in specialist appointments. All applicants for each of these entry streams are required to meet qualifying criteria.
The question of the recruitment of foreign nationals to the Defence Forces is not a new one. Defence Force regulations have always allowed for the recruitment of foreign nationals to the Defence Forces. Overall, the number of foreign nationals who apply to enlist in the Defence Forces is quite small. The military authorities advise that their research shows that the reason for failure to enlist in the Defence Forces is as a consequence of not meeting the laid down enlistment criteria.
For a person other than an Irish citizen to be appointed as an officer of the Defence Forces, the special approval of the Minister must be sought. In such a case, and provided that security clearance has been obtained, I would normally recommend that such a person be commissioned to the Defence Forces.
The only area where there are currently staff shortages in the Defence Forces is within the Medical Corps. Three doctors, non-Irish citizens, have been appointed to the Medical Corps, one in 2004 and two this year.
The Defence Forces equality policy, which was produced and formalised some months ago, states the Defence Forces: are committed to the principles of equal opportunities in all their employment policies, procedures and regulations; will operate in an environment without discrimination in areas as provided by the Equality Acts; will ensure that the principles of employment equality are employed in recruitment, promotion, training and work experience; all regulations and administrative instructions concerning service in the Defence Forces shall be set out in a manner consistent with this policy of equal opportunity; and this policy will be reviewed with the Defence Forces' regulations on an ongoing basis by the Deputy Chief of Staff, support, to ensure compliance with best practice and to maintain a working environment that treats all members of the Defence Forces in a manner consistent with equal opportunities.
My Department and the Defence Forces are fully committed to ensuring that all who wish to do so are given the opportunity to join the Defence Forces.
25 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Defence if a significant increase in defence spending is required for the Irish Defence Forces to ensure the preparedness of troops serving on overseas missions as expressed by PDFORRA; if significant expenditure is required on equipment such as small tanks and armoured personnel carriers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32046/05]
I would take issue with the views expressed by PDFORRA on the subject of defence spending, with particular regard to expenditure on modern equipment. The position is that there has been an unprecedented level of expenditure on infrastructure and equipment for the Defence Forces in recent years. I have seen proof positive of this investment in my visits to military barracks around the country and my experience is that the morale of soldiers is generally very high from the equipment and infrastructural perspective.
The increased level of expenditure on equipment for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service 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.
Investment in new equipment for the Defence Forces is provided for under various subheads of the Defence Vote relating to defensive equipment, mechanical transport, aircraft, ships and naval stores, engineering, communications and information technology equipment etc. All elements of the Defence Forces, the Army, Air Corps, Naval Service and the Reserve have benefited from the investment in new equipment.
Over the past six years, over €200 million has been expended on the purchase of 65 armoured personnel carriers for the Army, new patrol vessels for the Naval Service and new trainer aircraft for the Air Corps.
The programme of investment is continuing apace. Last January, I signed contracts for six new helicopters for the Air Corps costing over €60 million. Planning is well under way on the replacement programme for the next Naval Service ships to reach the end of their economic life and a further 15 armoured personnel carriers will be added to our current fleet. It is expected that the contract for the additional 15 APCs will be signed by the end of the year.
There are also ongoing acquisitions of modern equipment for use by soldiers on operational duties. The individual soldier is now required to carry an array of equipment whilst engaged on such duties. In that regard, one of the essential ongoing equipment acquisition projects relates to the provision of a modern integrated protection and load carrying system for members of the Defence Forces. This involves, inter alia, the personal protective equipment consisting of body armour and helmet. The aim is to have a new, lighter protective system, consisting of body armour and helmet, which is compatible with all current and future systems required for each soldier.
A tender competition is currently in train for the provision of body armour for the individual soldier. It is expected that an order will be placed shortly for 6,000 units. In addition, a separate tender competition for helmets is also currently in train for the acquisition of 12,000 units. It is expected that an order will be placed in the near future. A tender competition for the replacement of the existing FN 9mm Browning automatic pistol within the Defence Forces is also in train. It is expected that an order will be placed in the first quarter of 2006.
The equipment issued to the Defence Forces is in keeping with the most modern requirements and the highest international standards. The ongoing investment in the Defence Forces will ensure that this remains to be the case and that the Defence Forces are suitably well equipped to carry out their roles both at home or overseas.
28 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Defence his views on a statement attributed to him on 14 October 2005 in which he said that the key issue in relation to EU crisis management operations was inter-operability and that this goes beyond just equipment, involving training, military doctrine, operating procedures, command and control, culture, and rules of engagement. [32043/05]
When multi-national forces are deployed on peace support and crisis management operations they should be able to immediately commence operations on the ground. If they are to be fully effective, they should operate like a well-oiled machine. The time to start learning about other forces operating procedures, standards, capabilities, rules of engagement etc. is not when one is in the middle of a crisis operation requiring a robust response.
The comments referred to by the Deputy were taken from an interview I gave on the EDA where I was asked about the need for equipment and force co-ordination on EU missions. My comments were emphasising the importance of inter-operability in crisis management operations undertaken by the EU. The requirement for inter-operability, which is but one of the considerations which also include sustainability and survivability, involves common understanding of doctrine, operating procedures and standards, training standards, command and control etc within the force as a whole. In the absence of such understanding, the force will be unable to operate at its most effective and, potentially, will be exposed to higher risk.
29 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Defence the current level of Defence Forces engagement in Liberia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31912/05]
As the House will be aware, a contingent of the Permanent Defence Force has been serving with the United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, since December 2003. Initial deployment was for one year, an extension of which was approved by Government for another year in December 2004, subject to renewal of the UN mandate and a satisfactory review of the mission. In the near future, I will be bringing proposals to the Government for the continued deployment of a contingent with the mission beyond December 2005.
From the outset my predecessor signalled the Government's intention that Defence Forces involvement in UNMIL would not exceed two to three years in duration and the United Nations has been advised accordingly. It is now general policy that deployments of Defence Forces contingents to peace support missions overseas should be for defined periods.
Ireland, together with an infantry company group from Sweden, provides the quick reaction force, QRF, to the UNMIL Force Commander. The Irish contingent currently comprises 403 personnel. When it was deployed in late 2003 the initial focus of the unit was to help secure the Monrovia area and to support the disarmament process. However, in recent times the focus of the unit has altered to framework operations in support of the election process.
The United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, is playing a positive role in ensuring a secure environment for the holding of elections and in the run-up to the installation of the new Government next January. Parliamentary and presidential elections in Liberia took place on 11 October 2005. These elections marked the return of Liberia to a constitutional democracy after 14 years of civil war. As the presidential election did not produce an outright winner, a run-off between the two leading candidates — Ms Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and Mr. George Weah — will be necessary. This next round of voting is due to take place on 8 November 2005.
While Liberia has made major progress in consolidating peace and in implementing the August 2003 comprehensive peace agreement, the peace process still faces many challenges. These include completion of the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-combatants, reconstruction of the army and police and strengthening of the institutions responsible for the rule of law. Recognising the importance of guaranteeing the security situation in Liberia in the coming months, on 19 September 2005 the UN Security Council extended the mandate of UNMIL until 31 March 2006. Dependent on the political and security situation in Liberia at that time, in March 2006 the Secretary General of the UN is expected to make recommendations to the Security Council on a downsizing plan for UNMIL.
33 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Defence the steps being taken to increase the number of female recruits to the Defence Forces; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter. [31915/05]
304 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he expects or intends to increase the number of women in the Army, Naval Service or Air Corps; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32237/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 33 and 304 together.
The Government is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women in the Defence Forces, Army, Air Corps, Naval Service, including the Reserve Defence Force, and to the full participation by women in all aspects of Defence Forces activities. In effect, this means that women are eligible on the same basis as men for participation in operational and ceremonial activities, assignment to all military appointments and educational and training courses and for promotion. All female personnel undergo the same training and receive the same military education as their male counterparts.
In order to encourage increased participation by women in the Defence Forces my predecessor decided in March 1998 to reduce the height requirement for all female recruits to 162.5cm, 5 ft. 4 ins. This height requirement now also applies to male recruits.
The Defence Forces actively encourage female applicants, for example, by: advertising — where possible, all graphical advertisements and booklets produced for the Defence Forces show both male and female personnel and emphasise that all applicants are assessed on an equal basis; recruitment fairs — stands at recruiting fairs are generally staffed by male and female personnel; and visits to schools — when the Defence Forces are invited to give talks at all female or at mixed schools, every effort is made to have a female speaker.
Over the past eight years, the strength of female personnel in the Permanent Defence Force has grown from 244 at the end of 1997 to 524 at the end of August 2005. This constitutes an increase of over 100% in the number of females serving over this period.
On 5 August 2005, I wrote to both the Department of Education and Science and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform along with a number of outside organisations seeking their views and recommendations on how more women might be encourage to enlist in the Defence Forces. While to date a number of replies have been received, a number are still outstanding. When these submissions have been received and examined, I propose that officials, both civil and military, of my Department will meet with representatives of each of the organisations who made submissions, along with the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers, RACO, and the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association, PDFORRA, to consider the ideas and suggestions to see what, if any, improvements or changes can be made to the programme of recruitment so as to encourage more females to join the Defence Forces.
34 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Defence if he has received a report on the death of Private Kevin Barrett in Lebanon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31941/05]
57 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the investigation into the death of Private Kevin Barrett; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31900/05]
63 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Defence if an independent inquiry into the death of Private Kevin Barrett who was shot while serving in the Lebanon in 1999 will be established; when a final decision will be made on this; the scope and remit of any such inquiry; the timescale for the inquiry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32000/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 34, 57 and 63 together.
Private Kevin Barrett died on 18 February 1999 while serving with the 84th Infantry Battalion in Lebanon. His death was the subject of a UN board of inquiry and an Irish contingent board of inquiry as well as a military police investigation. The coroner for north-west Donegal held an inquest into the death of Private Barrett from 5 to 8 September 2005. The jury returned an open verdict.
I met with Mrs. Barrett on 4 October 2005, accompanied by her solicitor. I listened carefully to what she had to say. During the course of this meeting, I apologised to Mrs. Barrett and her family for the pain and suffering they had experienced since Private Barrett's tragic death. I indicated to Mrs. Barrett that I was still awaiting sight of the transcript of the coroner's inquest, which I understand will be available shortly. When I have reviewed the transcript of the coroner's inquest, I will decide what further action to take.
During my meeting with Mrs. Barrett, I also gave her an undertaking to have the interaction between my Department-Defence Forces and her and Private Barrett's family reviewed by an independent person. I wish to ensure that appropriate lessons are learnt for the future.
On 28 October 2005, I appointed Mr. Sean Hurley to carry out an independent review of the interaction between the Department of Defence-Defence Forces and the parents and family of Private Barrett in the aftermath of his tragic death. I anticipate that I will receive the report of this review before Christmas.
35 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Defence his views on whether the air ambulance service provided by the Air Corps should be on more than an as is basis as these new helicopter types will have the capacity of being configured for the ambulance role and in view of the fact that parts of west Mayo have no ambulance base; if he has formalised the arrangements for the provision of the air ambulance service with the Department of Health and Children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31721/05]
The Department of Health and Children is responsible for policy formation in respect of pre-hospital emergency care, and the Health Service Executive has statutory responsibility for the provision of ambulance services throughout the State.
A detailed service level agreement for the provision of an air ambulance service by the Air Corps, prepared by my Department and the Department of Health and Children, in consultation with the Health Service Executive and the Defence Forces, who are all signatories to the agreement, has recently been finalised and signed. The agreement sets out the range of the service to be provided by the Air Corps, specifically inter-hospital transfers for spinal and serious injuries and illnesses, air transport of neonates requiring immediate medical intervention within Ireland, air transport of patients requiring organ transplants in the UK, air transport of organ harvest teams within Ireland and air transport of patients from offshore islands to mainland hospitals where the Irish Coast Guard service is not available.
Both of the new helicopter types will have the capacity of being configured for the air ambulance role and an air ambulance kit is part of the additional equipment ordered with the helicopters. Both kits will be fully certified for airborne use and will enable the transfer of one patient along with up to two medical personnel in the helicopter cabin. Both systems will incorporate basic medical facilities such as electrical power, oxygen supply and suction.
36 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Defence if a review of preparedness for a terrorist attack here has been conducted in view of the 7 July 2005 bomb attacks in London; the current level of threat to Ireland from international terrorists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32004/05]
The Government Task Force on Emergency Planning has worked, since it was set up in 2001, to co-ordinate emergency planning and response arrangements across those Departments that lead and support the State's response in an emergency. The task force continues to meet on a regular basis.
Potential threats to the State arising from international terrorism are continuously monitored and preparedness reviewed by those involved, principally the Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces.
The current advice available to me is that, while the Garda authorities recognise that the terrorist threat to Europe may currently be high, in relation to Ireland it is low. The awareness that the situation could change rapidly, and with little warning, has ensured that vigilance is maintained. As the Deputy will appreciate, the objective has been, in so far as possible, to confine and control threats before they translate to destructive actions.
Arrangements in relation to security issues that may arise are primarily a matter for the Garda Síochána. Emergency planning preparations are designed to ensure that as far as possible the necessary advance planning is in place to deal with the consequences of any incident that may arise.
39 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Defence the number of Irish troops currently on service on missions in Liberia, Kosovo and Bosnia-Herzegovina; the nature of their duties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31886/05]
Ireland is currently contributing 730 Defence Forces personnel to 19 different missions throughout the world. The main commitments are to the United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, with 403 personnel, to the NATO-led International Security presence, KFOR, in Kosovo, with 202 personnel, and to EUFOR, the EU-led operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with 54 personnel.
Ireland, together with an infantry company group from Sweden, provides the quick reaction force, QRF, to the UNMIL force commander. The Irish contingent currently comprises of 403 personnel. When it was deployed in late 2003 the initial focus of the unit was to help secure the Monrovia area and to support the disarmament process. However, in recent times the focus of the unit has altered to framework operations in support of the election process. Parliamentary and presidential elections in Liberia took place on 11 October 2005. These elections marked the return of Liberia to a constitutional democracy after 14 years of civil war. The United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, is playing an extremely positive role in ensuring a secure environment for the holding of elections and in the run-up to the installation of the new Government next January. The Secretary General of the UN has indicated that there will be a review of the UNMIL mission in March 2006, and dependent on the political and security situation in Liberia at that time, a downsizing schedule for the UNMIL mission will be agreed at that time.
The Irish Infantry Group in Kosovo operates as part of a multi-national grouping within the Czech-led multi-national task force centre. It comprises a Mowag APC mounted company together with support and logistic elements. The main tasks of the Irish infantry group include the following: provision of general security to all ethnic groups, institutions and cultural sites; provision of support to UNMIK police and other agencies with security tasks; identification of and reporting on extremist groups and activities; vehicle and foot patrols; vehicle checkpoints; and operation of observation posts.
The role of the Defence Forces personnel serving in EUFOR within the task force, north, is to provide personnel for the headquarters, the military police unit, verification teams and a national support element. Ireland currently acts as the framework nation for the military police unit and verification teams.
The role of the verification teams, established under the Dayton agreement, is to monitor arms caches and arms movements by the two forces in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The teams are advised as to weapons purchases and movements and they inspect the arms holdings of the two forces and monitor movements to ensure that both sides comply with their obligations under the Dayton accord.
40 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Defence the reasons three military aircraft conducted low flights across Dublin city centre on the afternoon of 7 July 2005; his views on whether it may have been inappropriate for such exercises to have taken place on this day due to the morning bomb attacks that had taken place in London; his further views on whether these flights caused some anxiety for the general public; if an investigation has been conducted into this incident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32003/05]
The military aircraft in question, three Pilatus PC9-M flown by the Air Corps Flying Training School, were carrying out a rehearsal fly-past over the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, in preparation for the National Day of Commemoration on 11 July 2005. The National Day of Commemoration is held in honour of all Irish men and women who died in past wars or on peace-keeping duties with the United Nations.
I am advised by the military authorities that the aircraft did not fly over Dublin city centre but remained to the west and south west of the Royal Hospital at all times. The flights were properly authorised and approved prior to the rehearsal fly-past taking place.
Neither my Department nor the Defence Forces have received any complaints concerning the activities of the aircraft on 7 July, and the question of an investigation did not arise.
41 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence if any Defence Force assistance has been offered to Pakistan following the recent devastating earthquake in that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31908/05]
53 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Defence the resources he made available to the Governments of India and Pakistan following the 11 October 2005 earthquake; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32005/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 41 and 53 together.
While primary responsibility in this area lies with my colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Dermot Ahern, a request for assistance from Pakistan in the aftermath of the South Asia earthquake was received through the European Union Monitoring and Information Centre, MIC, in Brussels. Following consideration by the military it was decided to offer 5,000 meals ready to eat, MREs. However, some of the contents were not suitable for use in the region due to dietary restrictions associated with the religious beliefs of those affected by the disaster. The Defence Forces were not in a position to provide the other items requested such as helicopters or earth moving equipment while the tents in use by the Defence Forces were not suited to the weather conditions that prevail in the region. The Irish Government provided €3 million in humanitarian aid for the region through UNICEF, WHO, UN OCHA, IRC AND NGOs active in the region.
My colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Dermot Ahern, has just recently received two further appeals from the UN Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs specifically in relation to shelter, aviation fuel and air traffic control personnel. This appeal specifically stated that non-winterised tents would be acceptable and on foot of this, the Defence Forces offered to provide tents and beds for 500 people. The Department of Foreign Affairs is currently awaiting a response from the UN office as to whether this offer has been accepted.
42 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Defence the number of nuclear, chemical and biological suits available for use by the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31901/05]
The Defence Forces have available to them equipment for monitoring and protecting their members in dealing with nuclear, biological or chemical, NBC, threats identified from time to time. They hold an extensive range of modern NBC equipment that meets their current requirements. This range includes approximately 7,000 NBC suits, 1,500 of which were delivered in 2004. A further 1,000 suits have been ordered for delivery later this year and a further 1,000 suits will be delivered in 2006.
43 Mr. English asked the Minister for Defence if a rapid response to crisis situations, such as the threat of genocide, will be possible through the proposed EU battle group formations; his views on whether Ireland will also be able to respond quickly in such matters as a member of EU battle groups without reform of the triple lock mechanism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31914/05]
The battlegroup is designed to respond rapidly to the full range of Petersberg Tasks, either on its own or as an initial response pending the deployment of a follow-on force. Potentially, a battlegroup could be deployed to counter the threat of genocide. In such a situation, I would expect the UN to respond with all haste and put in place an appropriate resolution to ensure the protection of those at risk. We could only participate in such an operation if there was such a resolution in place. As I have stated on numerous occasions, our participation in any mission will continue to be subject to the requirement for UN approval, Government decision and Dáil approval, that is, the triple lock.
44 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Defence if the Defence Forces will be replacing the existing FN pistols; the stage any such replacement programme is at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31925/05]
A tender competition is currently in train to replace the existing FN 9mm Browning automatic pistol within the Defence Forces. Proposals have been received and are under evaluation by a project evaluation team. The requirement is for up to 1,400 new pistols.
It is expected that a contract will be placed in the first quarter of 2006 but this is dependent on how long the technical evaluation and the subsequent field trials of the pistols takes. As the tender competition is in train, the Deputy will appreciate I cannot disclose any further information in the matter at this stage.
47 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Defence if an inquiry has been ordered into serious allegations that an Irish soldier in the Rockhill Barracks, Letterkenny, stole diesel from army trucks and filled them up with illegal diesel produced by the Provisional IRA; if the soldier has been suspended while the inquiry is taking place; when the inquiry is due to be complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32038/05]
The military authorities advise that there is a military police investigation ongoing into the alleged larceny of diesel oil from military vehicles in Donegal. It would be inappropriate to comment on the details of the investigation but it can be confirmed that a member of the Defence Forces has been interviewed in the course of the investigation. As the investigation is continuing and several lines of inquiry remain to be completed, it is not possible to determine when the investigation will be concluded. There is no provision in Defence Force regulations for the suspension of a member of the Defence Forces.
48 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Defence the situation in relation to plans to decentralise his Department; the number of applications regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32007/05]
The Government decision on decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance in his Budget Statement on 3 December 2003 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 202.
While the Office of Public Works has identified a suitable site in Newbridge for the Department's new headquarters, negotiations on the acquisition of the site have not yet been completed. For this reason it is not possible to give a firm date for the move. Every effort is being made to expedite the process. A total of 385 personnel, of whom 59 are currently serving in the Department, have volunteered to relocate to Newbridge.
50 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Defence his views on claims made by the president of PDFORRA that medical services within the Defence Forces are totally inadequate; if his attention has been drawn to claims made at the PDFORRA conference that members of the Defence Forces must use their own money to pay for medical treatments to protect their careers and contracts; his plans to address inadequate medical services for the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31993/05]
As part of the modernisation agenda agreed under Sustaining Progress a review, involving the representative associations, of the provision of medical services in the Defence Forces has been ongoing. This review has dealt with, among other things, the level of services to be provided to members of the Defence Forces and the resources required for the delivery of that service. This review, which is being implemented on a phased basis, will be concluded by mid-2006. It has already delivered significant improvements in the delivery of medical services in the Defence Forces. As part of the change process a revised concept document on the provision of medical services and a patient's charter are being prepared at present. As a result of changes in this area there will be a greater emphasis on the direct provision of medical services, improvements through computerisation in the maintenance and tracking of patients records and on treatment.
The military medical services and their facilities exist primarily to maintain the health of Defence Forces personnel and to support them in operational and overseas activities. Medical treatment of military personnel is carried out as far as possible in a military hospital or other medical facility under the auspices of the Army Medical Corps. If the necessary treatment is outside the scope of the Army Medical Corps, then non-commissioned personnel, including recruits, are referred for treatment under the public health service. Such personnel, in common with all citizens, are eligible for treatment as public patients in public hospitals or to avail of private health care if they so choose. Where Medical Corps doctors are not available, suitable local arrangements are made with civilian medical practitioners to ensure that the appropriate level of professional care is available to members of the Defence Forces. In the event of an injury attributable to service or illness occurring to a recruit and when the public health services required are not available in sufficient time to provide the treatment necessary to allow the recruit to achieve the medical classification code required for final approval, financial sanction may be given for private treatment. Such sanction will be contingent on the recruit being likely to achieve the necessary medical classification code in sufficient time for final approval. Decisions are made on the individual particulars of each case based on the opinion of the relevant military medical authorities. In these circumstances the question of military personnel paying directly for medical services should not arise.
51 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Defence his plans to visit Irish troops serving abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31944/05]
In the period 30 May to 1 June, I visited Irish troops serving with KFOR in Kosovo, and EUFOR in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Parliamentary and presidential elections in Liberia took place on 11 October 2005. As the presidential election did not produce an outright winner, a run-off between the two leading candidates — Ms Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf and Mr. George Weah — will be necessary. The next round of voting is due to take place on 8 November. I had planned to begin a visit to Irish contingent serving with the United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, on that date. As my visit would have coincided with the second round of the presidential elections, I was advised by the United Nations to postpone my visit. I hope to reschedule my visit to Liberia early in 2006.
52 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces personnel engaged in operational duties relating to the Border each year for the past ten years. [31950/05]
The primary responsibility for the internal security of the State rests with the Garda Síochána. The Defence Forces, pursuant to their role of rendering aid to the civil power, assist the Garda as required. Defence Forces Border operations are undertaken as aid to civil power, ATCP, requests. The Defence Forces also assist the Garda in relation to prisoner escorts, cash escorts and explosives escorts.
The Defence Forces have three infantry battalions and a cavalry squadron tasked with Border security. They receive direct support from explosive ordnance disposal teams and air support from the Air Corps. These units are based in barracks and military posts in Counties Donegal, Longford, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth.
The demands on the Defence Forces in relation to Border duty depend on the nature of the requests for assistance received from the Garda at any particular time. These requests include the provision of armed parties for the purpose of protecting gardaí and the carrying out of duties such as vehicle checkpoints, mobile patrols, specialist search team tasks and explosive ordnance disposal, EOD, tasks. Last year there were 15 requests for EOD assistance and one request for assistance from an engineer specialist search team. During 2003 there were 12 requests for EOD assistance and four further occasions where the Garda requested Defence Forces assistance.
Since the Good Friday Agreement, the level of demand for Defence Forces assistance to the Garda in the Border area has reduced significantly and will be kept under review in my Department in consultation with the relevant Departments as well as with the Garda authorities.
54 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to criticisms voiced at the PDFORRA annual conference that the training and planning for Irish troops embarking on overseas deployment is poor; if his attention has further been drawn to the very real problems this can cause; his plans to address same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31996/05]
I am advised by the military authorities that the current training for overseas deployment follows a specific training syllabus developed for such missions. Each syllabus is based on comprehensive studies carried out by a number of specialist staffs of each mission area after reconnaissance. All recommendations of these staffs are incorporated into the syllabus and the troops trained accordingly.
I am further advised that these syllabi are reviewed after each deployment and updated. All lessons learned are incorporated into training syllabi to ensure that troops are kept abreast of any developments and requirements in the mission area. All standards applied are in keeping with best international practice and are the subject of frequent and rigorous reviews in order to ensure that the Permanent Defence Force pre-mission training remains at the highest level.
55 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if he has satisfied himself that the permanent Defence Forces are sufficiently equipped in terms of military hardware to deal with all or likely eventualities in the event of a terrorist attack or natural disaster; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31956/05]
The most important defence against any terrorist attack is detection and prevention by the security forces. While the Garda Síochána has the primary responsibility for law and order, one of the roles assigned to the Defence Forces is the provision of aid to the civil power, meaning in practice to assist, when requested, the Garda Síochána. The various components of the Defence Forces are active in this regard, providing such assistance as is appropriate in specific circumstances.
The Defence Forces make contingency plans for a range of scenarios where the State may be at risk. An urgent and detailed review to deal with a range of emergency situations was undertaken by the military authorities following the events of 11 September. It included, inter alia, an up-date of the threat assessment: intensive contacts with other State agencies, a reassessment of operations orders relating to vital installations, alert systems, the Army Ranger wing, ordnance and engineer aspects in terms of explosive ordnance disposal and specialist search and a review of equipment, including the need for air defence. All matters arising were addressed and all procedures updated as required.
The Defence Forces have available to them equipment for monitoring and protecting their members in dealing with nuclear, biological or chemical, NBC, threats identified from time to time. They hold an extensive range of modern NBC equipment that meets their current requirements. This range includes approximately 7,000 NBC suits, 1,500 of which were delivered in 2004. A further 1,000 NBC suits have been ordered for delivery later this year and a further 1,000 suits will be delivered in 20.
The capacity of the Defence Forces to deal with major emergencies is kept under constant review. Plans and procedures are updated as necessary and such additional equipment as is required to address any perceived deficiencies is acquired on the basis of identified priorities. Training and preparation for such events is also provided for in the Defence Forces annual training plan.
The most important defence against any attack is vigilance, detection and prevention by the security forces. All the necessary resources of the Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces are deployed to this end.
58 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Defence, further to his parliamentary response on 29 September 2005 in which he stated that Ireland supports the development of the European Union’s rapid reaction capability in support of missions authorised by the United Nations, if that indicates that the Government would oppose at EU level the deployment of any EU rapid reaction forces in peacemaking missions not authorised by the United Nations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32041/05]
The Deputy cannot take my response to a previous parliamentary question and turn it on its head the way he has done here. As the Deputy is aware, the Government supports the development of the EU's rapid response capability in support of the UN. This is in keeping with our long tradition and policy of support for the UN, multilateralism and the Security Council as the lead authority for the maintenance of international peace and security. Among the operations on which a battlegroup could be deployed are humanitarian operations such as assisting, if requested, the authorities in a state which has been devastated by a natural or man-made disaster where there is unlikely to be a UN security resolution as it may not involve any security issues. I would consider it unlikely that Ireland would veto such an operation, although any participation by the Defence Forces would have to be examined in the context of the provisions of the Defence Acts. In general, the question of whether an EU battlegroup would deploy in the absence of UN authorisation is hypothetical at this point and the position Ireland would take in the future if such a question were to arise would be a matter for consideration by the Government.
59 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Defence if money will be spent on Castlebar military barracks; if so, the timeframe for same; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the west of Ireland is the only area in the country with no current facilities for RDF training and that the summer training camps for the RDF are totally overcrowded; his views on whether the minimum spend facility will be up to standard and available for use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31722/05]
Castlebar military barracks is primarily a Reserve Defence Force facility and provides training facilities, office accommodation and storage facilities for Permanent Defence Force cadre and unit personnel of units stationed in the barracks.
The military have costed the refurbishment of some buildings necessary to effect compliance with building, health and safety, and fire regulations to provide permanent accommodation and catering facilities for RDF summer camps. The estimated cost of approximately €4 million raises value for money considerations. Therefore, there are no plans at present to carry out any major building or refurbishment works on the barracks.
Western Brigade is currently well served with training facilities for RDF personnel at Finner Camp, Donegal; Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Galway; Custume Barracks, Athlone; Columb Barracks, Mullingar; Connolly Barracks, Longford; and Dún Uí Néill, Cavan where accommodation and training facilities are of the highest standard. The military authorities have informed me that there is no evidence of overcrowding in RDF summer camps in the Western Brigade.
62 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Defence the section of the Irish Defence forces which will provide the 120 Irish troops being considered for deployment to any future involvement in EU battlegroups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32047/05]
The Defence Forces have looked at a number of options in terms of their contribution to rapid reaction forces under the Helsinki headline goal. I am not sure where the Deputy got the figure of 120 troops in the context of battlegroups. While I have yet to receive the report of the interdepartmental group, which is examining the issue of battlegroups, my understanding is that the Defence Forces have identified a palette of offers which they could contribute. In the event of a positive decision by the Government to the Defence Forces participation in a battlegroup, it will be necessary to enter into discussions with potential partners in relation to the nature and scale of our contribution. Until then it is impossible to say what the size of the commitment would be and where it will come from.
64 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Defence if he has received the report presented to the EU by the centre for strategic and international studies, European Defence integration, which is due to be debated in the EU in October 2005 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32048/05]
As the Deputy will be aware, Ireland participates in the European Defence Agency which is charged with supporting the development of capabilities in relation to battlegroups and the headline goal, supporting collaboration and rationalisation in the European defence equipment market and increasing the effectiveness of European defence expenditure, particularly in the area of research and technology. The centre for strategic and international studies is a Washington based think tank. It has no connection to the EU and as such its reports are not debated or considered formally by the EU. I have not received the report referred to, which I understand was prepared by two retired NATO generals. However, if there is anything of substance in the report on European defence integration, no doubt the agency will reflect on the views of the centre, as presented in its report, and bring forward its own proposals to the steering board of the agency, if such is warranted.
66 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Defence the number of Defence Forces personnel currently on service overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31910/05]
Ireland is currently contributing 730 Defence Forces personnel to 19 different missions throughout the world, full details are as listed in the following tabular statement. The main commitments are to the United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, with 403 personnel, the NATO-led international security presence, KFOR, in Kosovo, with 202 personnel, and EUFOR, the EU-led operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with 54 personnel. Other personnel are serving as monitors and observers with the United Nations, UN, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, OSCE, and the European Union. Staff are also deployed at the organisational headquarters of the OSCE, the UN, NATO and the EU.
|
Number |
|
|
1. UN Missions |
|
|
(i) UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) |
6 |
|
(ii) UNTSO (United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation) — Israel, Syria and Lebanon |
13 |
|
(iii) MINURSO (United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara) |
4 |
|
(iv) UNMIK (United Nations Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo) |
4 |
|
(v) MONUC (United Nations Mission in Democratic Republic of the Congo) |
3 |
|
(vi) UNOCI (United Nations Mission in Ivory Coast) |
2 |
|
(vii) UNMIL (United Nations Mission in Liberia) FHQ |
6 |
|
UNMIL 93rd Inf Bn |
397 |
|
TOTAL |
435 |
|
UN Mandated Missions |
|
|
(viii) EUFOR (EU-led Operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina) |
54 |
|
(ix) KFOR (International Security Presence in Kosovo) |
202 |
|
(x) ISAF (International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan) |
7 |
|
Total number of personnel serving with UN missions |
698 |
|
2. EU Missions |
|
|
(i) European Union Monitor Mission (EUMM) to the former Yugoslavia |
5 |
|
(ii) EU’s support for the UN authorised African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) |
1 |
|
(iii) ACEH Monitoring Mission (AMM) |
3 |
|
Total Number of Personnel Serving with EU Missions |
9 |
|
3. Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE |
|
|
(i) OSCE Mission to Bosnia & Herzegovina |
1 |
|
(ii) OSCE Mission in Montenegro |
1 |
|
(iii) OSCE Presence in Albania |
1 |
|
(iv) OSCE Mission in FRY |
2 |
|
(v) OSCE Mission in Georgia |
1 |
|
(vi) Staff Officer, Higher Level Planning Group, Vienna |
1 |
|
Total number of personnel serving OSCE |
7 |
|
4. Head of Military Staff (Brussels) |
1 |
|
5. EU Military Staff (Brussels) |
5 |
|
6. Liaison Office of Ireland, PfP (Brussels) |
2 |
|
7. Permanent Representative to EU (Brussels) |
3 |
|
8. Military Representatives-Advisers |
|
|
(i) Military Adviser, Permanent Mission to UN, New York |
1 |
|
(ii) Military Adviser, Irish Delegation to OSCE, Vienna |
1 |
|
(iii) Military Representative to Partnership Co-ordination Cell-Supreme |
1 |
|
Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE), Mons, Belgium |
|
|
9. Appointments — UN HQ (New York) |
|
|
Officers seconded to DPKO (Department of Peace Keeping Operations) |
2 |
|
Total Number Defence Forces Personnel Serving Overseas |
730 |
67 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if there is a procedure to register a death that took place in County Limerick in 1960 when the record of the cause of death is destroyed and not available. [32290/05]
The administration of civil registration is statutorily a matter for an tArd Chláraitheoir, Registrar General, of births, marriages and deaths. I have made inquiries with an tArd Chláraitheoir and the position is as set out beneath.
Statutory provision for the late registration of deaths is made under the Births and Deaths Registration Act (Ireland) 1880 and regulations made thereunder. Deaths which have not been registered within 12 months of the date of the death, except in cases where an inquest has been held, require the written authority of an tArd Chláraitheoir before they can be registered. In such cases a statutory declaration is required to be completed by a person who is regarded as qualified to give information about the death including the cause of death. Other documentary evidence may be required depending on the circumstances.
An application to register the death in question should be made in the first instance to the registration office for the district in which the death took place and from which all necessary documentation can be obtained.
68 Mr. McGinley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason the services of a speech therapist is not being provided for a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32316/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
69 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated with an appointment for hip surgery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32074/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
70 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will receive an appointment for an assessment for hip replacement. [32075/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
71 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will receive an appointment for hip replacement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32076/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
72 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason two vacancies for social workers in the local adoption service are not being filled in view of the fact that the waiting list in the north east is the longest in the country for inter-country adoption and she has ring-fenced €1 million to help reduce waiting lists for inter-country adoption; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32077/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
73 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she envisages the establishment of local health committees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32090/05]
Part 8 of the Health Act 2004 makes provision for public representation and user participation in the health system. Section 42 of the Act provides for the establishment by the Minister for Health and Children of not more than four regional health forums. These forums will comprise members appointed from each city and county council within the functional area of the forum. The function of a forum, as provided for in the 2004 Act, is to make such representations as it considers appropriate to the Health Service Executive on the range and operation of health and personal social services provided within its functional area.
Section 42 provides that details relating to the establishment, composition and operation of the regional health forums will be set out in regulations to be made by the Minister for Health and Children, following consultation with the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The Department of Health and Children has prepared a draft of the regulations and has been in consultation with the Health Service Executive on the provisions of the draft regulations. Following completion of that consultation, I will consult with the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government as required by the 2004 Health Act prior to making the regulations. It is my intention that the regulations will be finalised as soon as possible so as to enable the regional health forums to be established at an early date. The regulations establishing the forums will be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas as soon as they have been made.
Section 43 of the Health Act 2004 enables the executive to establish advisory panels in order to consult with local communities or other groups about health and personal social services. It is a matter for the executive to determine the terms of reference, the membership and the rules and procedures for each panel. The executive has informed the Department of Health and Children that it has begun the process of examining the different structures that exist in each of the former health board areas for involving consumers at local level and is further developing the consumer panels that already exist. The executive wishes to foster an open approach to service user feedback and comment and is using national and international best practice in developing the new structures.
74 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a response will issue to correspondence from a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32091/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
75 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the offices of her Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations where each of them are scheduled to relocate to under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32097/05]
All the sections of the Department of Health and Children are situated on the south side of Dublin with the exception of the General Register Office which decentralised to Roscommon town earlier this year.
76 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the concerns raised in the correspondence (details supplied) regarding the legislation for the chiropractic profession in the Health and Social Care Professional Bill 2004 will be addressed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32110/05]
This Bill shows us the way forward by establishing a framework for the statutory registration of health and social care professionals. The 12 professions selected for inclusion in the Health and Social Care Professionals Bill 2004 were chosen because they are long established providers of health and social care within the public health service and, in most instances, also have experience of self-regulation. In addition, the qualifications of the majority of these professions are already regulated within the public health service.
Section 4 of the Bill provides for the inclusion by regulation of additional professions in the proposed system of statutory registration. This section also sets out the criteria to which the Minister shall have regard in considering the designation of further professions under the legislation. The Deputy will appreciate that the future inclusion of any profession must be dependent upon its meeting these criteria.
I favour the programmed and orderly inclusion of additional health and social care professionals in this new statutory framework and I will consider the case for chiropractors in that light. By the nature of regulations as opposed to primary legislation, the designation of additional professions by regulation can be progressed speedily, in line with the consultative process set out in section 4 of the Bill and the oversight given by the Houses of the Oireachtas which must pass a resolution approving draft regulations in the matter.
77 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding protection measures for adults with an intellectual disability in residential care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32120/05]
All health service providers are required to adhere to the necessary legislative requirements with regard to safe environments. As a further protection, it is the intention of the Department of Health and Children to put in place a statutory inspection provision which would cover, among others, residential services for adults with intellectual disability.
This measure, together with the draft national standards for disability services which have been developed by the Department of Health and Children, in partnership with the National Disability Authority, will provide a quality framework for the protection and promotion of the rights of service users and staff to safety and dignity. A critical element in this process is the expansion of the remit of the social services inspectorate and the establishment of the health information quality authority.
78 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of patients on trolleys or chairs at Beaumont Hospital on 27 October 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32121/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
79 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding efforts to assist persons (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32122/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
80 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding improving services at a school (details supplied) for the 312 persons on residential waiting lists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32123/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act, 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
81 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons from County Kildare who have received treatment under the National Treatment Purchase Fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32126/05]
As the Deputy's question relates to the operation of the National Treatment Purchase Fund, the Department of Health and Children has asked the chief executive of the fund to respond to the Deputy with the information requested.
82 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the parliamentary affairs division was set up at the Health Service Executive; the cost at which it was set up; the number of staff employed within the division; the salaries of those employed within this division; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32129/05]
83 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason it was thought necessary to set up a parliamentary affairs division within the Health Service Executive; the issues, which will be her responsibility in terms of answers to parliamentary questions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32130/05]
84 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the time constraints that the parliamentary affairs division of the Health Service Executive observe; if these differ from the time constraints observed by Departments when parliamentary questions are put to them; if so the reason for same (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32131/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 82 to 84, inclusive, together.
Prior to the establishment of the Health Service Executive, parliamentary questions concerning access to services, by individuals or in specific geographic areas, were referred to the chief executive officer of the relevant health board or ERHA for direct reply.
Pursuant to the Health Act 2004, the functions of the health boards and ERHA were transferred to the HSE. Under the Act, the HSE has responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to have delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. The establishment of the HSE brought into being a new unitary system for the delivery and management of health services at local, regional and national level. The move to the new structure presented an opportunity for an improved service for providing information to Oireachtas Members. The parliamentary affairs division of the HSE, which was established last April, provides a central contact for all Oireachtas requests for information relating to matters within the statutory remit of the executive.
The Deputy's questions about the parliamentary affairs division regarding the number of staff, the set up costs, and the salaries paid, are operational matters, which are the responsibility of the HSE. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the HSE to arrange to have the information compiled and a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
As Minister, I am responsible for the legislative and regulatory framework underpinning the delivery of health and personal social services, national policy issues including overall service, human resource and industrial relations, workforce planning, resource allocation, performance management and health service reform issues, and issues relating to the Department of Health and Children. Regarding my replies to parliamentary questions on such matters, where the information concerned is readily available in the Department of Health and Children, it is included in the answer given in the House. Otherwise, the reply advises that the information must be compiled and will be issued to the Deputy concerned as soon as possible after the answer date.
The HSE aims to operate within a timeframe of 20 working days from the date of answer of a parliamentary question for the issue of a final reply to a Deputy. This reflects the arrangements which the former health boards and ERHA had adopted prior to the HSE's establishment. It is a starting point and the HSE is committed to reducing this period as it develops its organisational and information capacity going forward. The Deputy will be aware that parliamentary questions can differ very substantially in the complexity of the subject matter or the extent of the detail sought. The HSE endeavours to provide more immediate responses in instances where the information sought in the question is of a routine nature or is readily available. The key purpose in establishing the HSE's parliamentary affairs division is to provide a strong mechanism, and specific resource, to address the information needs of Oireachtas Members in connection with the discharge by the HSE of its statutory responsibilities under the 2004 Act. The establishment of the division provides, for the first time, a systematic approach to monitoring and improving the performance of the health service delivery system in replying to information requests from Oireachtas Members.
85 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons on orthodontic waiting lists in County Meath; the number in categories A and B; the average waiting time involved; the steps being taken to reduce waiting lists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32137/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
86 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the financial surplus or deficit for Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan, County Meath for each of the years 2002, 2003, 2004 and to date in 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32138/05]
For the years 2002 to 2004, inclusive, it was a matter for the former North Eastern Health Board to allocate its funding between the different programmes of treatment and care within the overall level of funding available, after providing for those specific decisions identified by the Department. The information requested by the Deputy in respect of those years was not routinely collected by the Department of Health and Children. Since 1 January 2005 the management and delivery of health and personal social services are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy with the information requested for the period from 2002 to 2004 and to date in 2005.
87 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the current budget for orthopaedic services for the elderly in County Meath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32139/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
88 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the full complement of beds is in use at Our Lady’s Hospital in Navan, County Meath; if not, the number and percentage of beds in use; the reason for this occurring and when full capacity will be returned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32140/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
89 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of elderly persons awaiting allocation of a long-term care place in State nursing homes in County Meath; her plans to provide additional community care units in County Meath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32141/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
90 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the budget allocated to the North Eastern Health Board for the years 1995 to 2004 inclusive; the overrun for each year; and if she will present the findings in tabular form. [32142/05]
The final determination and actual net expenditure for the former North Eastern Health Board for the years 1995 to 2004 inclusive is set out in the following table. Under the 1996 accountability legislation, each health board was required to transfer a deficit or surplus for the preceding year to the following year. Accordingly, health boards included a surplus or deficit, whichever was appropriate, in their planned spending for the following year.
|
Year |
Determination €m |
Net Expenditure €m |
(Deficit)/ Surplus €m |
|
1995 |
131.432 |
131.013 |
0.419 |
|
1996 |
132.892 |
133.412 |
(0.520) |
|
1997 |
174.559 |
176.837* |
(2.278)* |
|
1998 |
209.380 |
208.116 |
1.264 |
|
1999 |
262.480 |
261.118 |
1.362 |
|
2000 |
321.750 |
323.041 |
(1.291) |
|
2001 |
410.658 |
408.361 |
2.297 |
|
2002 |
479.200 |
480.249 |
(1.049) |
|
2003 |
526.274 |
522.950 |
3.324 |
|
2004 |
565.230 |
569.751 |
(4.521) |
*The former North Eastern Health Board purchased Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda on 1 June 1997 and the accumulated deficit of the hospital, amounting to €1.4 million, was included in board's accounts as an exceptional item.
91 Mr. O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding her plans to deal with the nursing home charges issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32165/05]
The Government has agreed the key elements of a scheme for the repayment of long-stay charges for publicly funded residential care. All those fully eligible persons who were charged and are alive and the estates of all those who were charged and died in the six years prior to 9 December 2004 will have the charges repaid in full. The scheme will not allow for repayments to the estates of those who died more than six years prior to that date. The repayments will include both the charge paid and an amount to take account of inflation, using the consumer price index, since the time the person involved was charged.
It is expected the scheme will cost approximately €1 billion and at this stage it is envisaged that applications for the scheme can be received up to 31 December 2007. Figures provided by the Health Service Executive show an estimated 60,000 people are likely to be due a repayment, approximately 20,000 of these are living and 40,000 relate to estates of deceased patients.
It is my intention to have legislation brought before the Oireachtas in the next parliamentary session and to have repayments commencing shortly after the Bill is approved and signed into law. In the case of those who were charged and are still alive, the repayments will be exempt from tax and will not be taken into account in assessing means for health and social welfare benefits. The normal tax and means assessment arrangements will apply to those who benefit from repayments to estates. The legislation will include appropriate safeguards to prevent exploitation of those who receive repayments and are not in a position to manage their own financial affairs. The scheme will include a provision to allow those eligible for a repayment to waive their right to a repayment and have the money assigned to fund service improvements in elderly, mental health and disability services.
A national oversight committee has been appointed and has already begun its work. It will provide an independent input into the design of the scheme and will monitor the operation of the scheme in order to ensure that it is being implemented quickly and in the most equitable and effective way possible. The scheme will be designed and managed with the aim of ensuring that those who are eligible for repayments receive them as soon as possible and with the minimum possible imposition in terms of bureaucracy. Priority will be given to those who are still alive. Many of those eligible for repayments have already been identified under the ex-gratia payments process. The scheme will include a transparent and thorough appeals process.
The Health Service Executive has informed the Department of Health and Children that an outside company with experience in handling mass claims will be engaged by the end of this month to provide an independent input into the design and administration of the scheme. The national helpline set up by the HSE to allow people to register if they believe they are due a repayment will continue to operate but there is no need for anyone who has already registered using this facility to make contact with the HSE again to register for the scheme.
92 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of physiotherapists employed by the Health Service Executive in County Meath; the number of physiotherapists that provide a community based service; the plans of the Health Service Executive to increase or decrease the number of physiotherapists providing the community based service, giving the reasons for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32171/05]
The Deputy's question relates to human resource management issues within the Health Service Executive. As this is a matter for the Executive under the Health Act 2004, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
93 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the length of time it takes for a person to see an occupational therapist in County Meath; the length of time it takes a medical card holder to see an occupational therapist; the length of time it takes for a non-medical card holder to see an occupational therapist; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32172/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
94 Mr. Noonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive will provide grant aid of €4,000 to enable teachers in a school (details supplied) in County Limerick to establish a pilot project of neuro-development therapy to improve behaviour in the classroom; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32201/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
95 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when funding for the transfer of services of surgical dimension to Clonmel will be released; when the Cashel services will be funded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32204/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
96 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a senior area medical officer and an area medical officer will be appointed to the Health Service Executive midlands region at Mullingar; the length of time this appointment process has been ongoing; the reason for the delay in making these appointments; the steps which have been put in place to deal with the backlog of applications for domiciliary care and so on which are awaiting input from these appointees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32207/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
97 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if funding will be made available to a hospital (details supplied) in County Meath to upgrade the accident and emergency ward; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32210/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
98 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons in County Meath in possession of a medical card; the number of persons in County Meath in possession of a medical card in October 2002, 2003, 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32211/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
99 Mr. Kirk asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the plans the Health Service Executive north east area has for the expansion of facilities and further capital investment at Louth County Hospital, Dundalk; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32259/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
100 Mr. Kirk asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the significant demographic changes in the north east, particularly in counties Louth and Meath, her Department is reviewing hospital configuration in the area in the context of current needs and future population growth in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32260/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
101 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if, in view of Amnesty International’s campaign for increased Government funding for frontline services for women who have suffered violence, when funding will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32261/05]
I have received a significant number of submissions and representations on this issue.
My Department does not directly fund or co-ordinate health and personal social services to victims of abuse. Moneys are made available each year, formerly through the health boards, and now through the Health Service Executive, for the provision of services to women victims of violence. In recent years there has been a substantial increase in funding so that now over €12 million is provided annually for the provision of such services. The distribution of this funding is now a matter for the Health Services Executive.
The Tánaiste asked the HSE to carry out an analysis of the current level of service provision in this area and to report back to her. She awaits this report with interest and will be further informed by its findings.
102 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons who have applied for refunds arising from the illegal nursing home charges; the number of cases where the patient has already passed away; and the number of patients or claimants who have passed away since they applied for their refund. [32262/05]
The Government has agreed the key elements of a scheme for the repayment of long stay charges for publicly funded residential care.
The Health Service Executive has informed my Department that an outside company with experience in handling mass claims will be engaged by the end of this month to provide an independent input into the design and administration of the scheme. The full details of the scheme will be agreed with the outside company on appointment. Once appointed, the outside company will be required to establish the status of applications received. A national helpline has been set up by the Health Service Executive to allow people to register if they believe they or a family member may be due a repayment. The helpline will continue to operate but there is no need for anyone who has already registered using this facility to make contact again to register for the scheme. Over 20,000 applications had been registered with the executive up to the end of October.
103 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on the appointment in the Health Service Executive for a person (details supplied) in County Sligo, under the equal jobs opportunity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32268/05]
The Deputy's question relates to human resource management issues within the Health Service Executive. As this is a matter for the executive under the Health Act 2004, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
104 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to a crisis regarding the provision of home help service in the Health Service Executive south east area for terminally ill cancer patients living at home arising from the fact that the community care home help budget is to provide for the elderly and that the palliative care budget does not have a provision for a home help service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32297/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
105 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the properties which have been offered for sale in the psychiatric service to enable investment to take place in psychiatric infrastructure following the intention announced in spring 2004. [32311/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
106 Ms C. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the role her Department plays in the allocation of funds and resources for the establishment and running of women’s refuges; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32312/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy. The responsibility for the provision of refuges lies with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
107 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when funding will be provided for the provision of a 20-bed unit at a house (details supplied) in County Offaly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32335/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
108 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a cheque will be reissued to a nursing home (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32339/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
109 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on an application for the nursing home subvention in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32340/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
110 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for admission to the urology Department of St Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin for an operation. [32341/05]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
111 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the status of the interdepartmental review of road safety expenditure; when this review commenced and when it was completed; the recommendations that arose for her Department; and the actions she intends taking to meet implementation of these recommendations. [32348/05]
The Department of Transport chaired a steering group overseeing a cross-departmental review of road safety expenditure which examined expenditure incurred over the lifetime of the first road safety strategy, 1998-2002. This review seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of all public spending on road safety and to establish the impact of road safety performance on other areas, such as health and emergency services.
The steering committee consisted of representatives from the Departments of Transport, Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Health and Children, Finance and the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The committee for public management research was also represented in order to examine processes and outcomes of the review for future cross-departmental reviews and to provide general expert assistance.
The steering group commenced the review in mid-2003 and the consultants engaged to carry out an analysis of identified expenditure submitted their report earlier this year. The report has been submitted to the committee for public management research for quality assessment before publication.
112 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Finance if he will review an application lodged by persons (details supplied) in County Donegal for funding towards the purchase of a multiple purpose vehicle to facilitate their son; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32166/05]
Supports or services for persons with disabilities or certain physical or mental medical conditions in respect of those disabilities are primarily a matter for the Department of Health and Children. Having said that, I presume that the Deputy means to make reference to an application on behalf of the person concerned for VRT, VAT and mineral oil tax concessions under the disabled drivers and disabled passengers, tax concessions, scheme operated by my Department, and in particular the application for the primary medical certificate required for eligibility for the scheme.
I cannot comment on a decision made in a particular case by the director of community care and area medical health officer of the Health Service Executive. I can say, however, that the scheme, as currently constituted, requires that the subject of the application be severely and permanently disabled and satisfy one of the following conditions: (a) be wholly or almost wholly without the use of both legs; (b) be wholly without the use of one leg and almost wholly without the use of the other leg such that the applicant is severely restricted as to movement of the lower limbs; (c) be without both hands or without both arms; (d) be without one or both legs; (e) be wholly or almost wholly without the use of both hands or arms and wholly or almost wholly without the use of one leg; or (f) have the medical condition of dwarfism and have serious difficulties of movement of the lower limbs.
A special interdepartmental review group reviewed the operation of the disabled drivers scheme. The terms of reference of the group were to examine the operation of the existing scheme, including the difficulties experienced by the various groups and individuals involved with it, both on an administrative and user level, and to consider the feasibility of alternative schemes, with a view to assisting the Minister for Finance in determining the future direction of the scheme.
The group's report, published on my Department's website in July 2004, sets out in detail the genesis and development of the scheme. It examines, among other things, the qualifying medical criteria. The report makes a number of recommendations, both immediate and long-term, encompassing the operation of the appeals process and options for the future development of the scheme.
In respect of the long-term recommendations, which would involve reforming the medical qualifying criteria, given the scale and scope of the scheme, further changes can only be made after careful consideration. For this reason, as agreed by the Government in June 2004, I will consider the recommendations contained in the report of the interdepartmental review group in the context of the annual budgetary process having regard to the existing and prospective cost of the scheme.
This Government is committed to supporting and reinforcing equal participation in society by people with disabilities. I remind the Deputy that disability was one of the priority areas where I substantially increased investment in budget 2005.
113 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for Finance the changes in legislation since 1997 in respect of tax treatment and reliefs and other improvements in respect of VAT and all other taxes for charities and donations to charities; the cost to the Exchequer each year in respect of these changes; if he is considering any additional changes in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32073/05]
To be granted charitable tax exemption by the Revenue Commissioners a body must be established solely for charitable purposes and the exemption applies only in so far as the funds are applied for charitable purposes only. The tax exemptions are from income tax, corporation tax, capital gains tax, deposit interest retention tax, capital acquisitions tax, stamp duty, probate tax and dividend withholding tax. Many of these exemptions are of very long standing and none have been altered or extended in the period since 1997.
With regard to the issue of VAT, the position is governed by EU VAT law with which Irish VAT law must comply. Under the EU sixth VAT directive, where charities and non-profit organisations are engaged in non-commercial activities, they are exempt from charging VAT on the services they provide but cannot recover VAT on goods and services which they purchase. Essentially, only VAT registered businesses are able to recover VAT.
In addition to the above exemptions, a scheme of income and corporation tax relief for donations to approved bodies was introduced by my predecessor in 2001. The scheme, which replaced a number of existing reliefs, provides tax relief for donations made by either individuals or corporate bodies to eligible charities and other approved bodies including first and second level schools and third level institutions including universities. An eligible charity for the purposes of the scheme is any charity in the State which has been authorised by the Revenue Commissioners as an eligible charity and which holds charitable exempt status from the Revenue Commissioners for at least two years. Prior to the Finance Act 2005, this two-year waiting period had been three years. A further amendment to this tax relief was made in 2003 to restrict relief for donations by individuals to bodies of which they are members. In some cases, the individuals concerned were donating their entire salaries to such bodies and it was considered that the tax relief was not intended to cover such donations.
This scheme for donations not only consolidated a series of reliefs for donations which had existed previously, such as tax relief for donations to third world charities and corporate donations to charities, but also, for the first time, extended the tax relief to donations by individuals to domestic charities. It was widely welcomed at the time by the charitable sector.
No reliable estimates are available concerning the tax loss to the Exchequer of the principal exemptions from tax of charities as these bodies are not required to make tax returns.
The latest data from the Revenue Commissioners for the cost of the scheme of tax relief for donations to approved bodies, including charities are as follows:
|
Year |
Amount of tax refunded by Revenue to Charities and other Approved Bodies in the case of individual PAYE donors. |
Estimated amount of tax foregone in the case of donations made by self- assessed individuals. |
|
€ million |
€ million |
|
|
2002 |
11.2 |
5.1 |
|
2003 |
21.4 |
Not yet available |
|
2004 |
14.8 |
Not yet available |
|
2005 (to 30 Sept.)* |
9.2 |
Not yet available |
*It should be noted that the Revenue Commissioners expect that claims for refunds on donations made to charities in the wake of the tsunami disaster will not appear in claims lodged with Revenue until January 2006. Thus refunds made to charities and other approved bodies in 2005 would mostly be exclusive of these donations.
As donations made by companies are aggregated with other expenses in corporate tax returns, it is not possible to extract a figure for donations.
As the Deputy is aware, the donations scheme is being examined as part of the overall review of tax reliefs currently being undertaken by my Department and the Revenue Commissioners. I will consider these reviews in the context of the budget. It is normal practice at this time of year to refrain from giving any indication as to what measures may or may not be contained in the budget.
114 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Finance the projected amounts to be collected under residential stamp duty for 2005; the amount collected in 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32089/05]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the yield from stamp duties on residential property transactions in 2004 was €752 million and was €672 million in the nine months to end September 2005. A continuation of the average monthly yield for the first nine months, for the remaining three months would give an estimated yield of almost €900 million for 2005.
115 Mr. English asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide details of all State land in the Meath County Council area to include land audit figures from Meath County Council. [32143/05]
Following is a list of properties and-or land owned or managed by the Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland in County Meath: Ashbourne Garda station; Athboy Garda station, married quarters and RAX; Ballivor Garda station; Crossakiel Garda station; Duleek Garda station and RAX; Duleek Nanny river pump site; Dunboyne Garda station; Dunshaughlin Garda station and RAX; Enfield Garda station; Grange EU office; Kells Garda station; Kilmessan Garda station and married quarters; Laytown Garda station; Longwood Garda station; Navan Government office; Navan Garda station; Nobber Garda station, married quarters and RAX; Slane Garda station and married quarters; Stirrupstown former barracks site; Summerhill Garda station and married quarters; Hill of Tara Church; Trim Garda station and RAX; and Trim Boyne central drainage scheme headquarters.
116 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the maximum amount of tax free lump sum that may be claimed on retirement by a person every fifth year since 1960; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32183/05]
The rules relating to the maximum amount of tax free lump sum that may be claimed on retirement are as follows.
The statutory rules on retirement benefit schemes, that is occupational pension schemes, provide that lump sum benefits paid to employees at a normal retirement age may not exceed 1.5 times the final remuneration of the employee where he or she served with the employer for 20 years up to the date of retirement. These rules were introduced in the 1972 Finance Act and have remained unchanged since that time. Prior to 1972, a lump sum not exceeding one quarter of the value of the fund available to provide the pension benefits could be taken.
For retirement annuity contracts, RACs, a tax-free lump sum equal to 25% of the value of the annuity fund can be taken as a tax-free lump sum on retirement. This facility has been available since 1974. Prior to that date no lump sum could be taken with regard to RACs. Personal retirement savings accounts, PRSAs, introduced by the Pensions Act 2002, are treated similarly to RACs in that when the benefits are drawn down, 25% of the fund value may be taken tax-free.
The 1999 Finance Act created additional options at retirement for holders of RACs, and certain holders of occupational pension schemes, for example, proprietary directors, and PRSAs subsequently. Under the new arrangements such individuals can opt on retirement to purchase an annuity, to take the value of their pension fund in cash subject to tax or to have the proceeds of their pension arrangements invested in an approved retirement fund, ARF, or approved minimum retirement fund, AMRF. In electing to take up one of these options, an individual is entitled to take a tax-free lump of 25% of the value of the fund.
117 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the area of the office space leased by his Department for the NEPS in Mullingar; the annual rent payable and the duration of the current lease. [32184/05]
The Commissioners of Public Works have leased 908.60 square metres of office accommodation at Friar's Mill Road in Mullingar for the Department of Education and Science. The duration of the lease is 20 years, expiring in 2023.
The National Education and Psychological Service occupies 264.13 square metres of this accommodation. The apportioned rent on the NEPS accommodation is €54,160 per annum.
118 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance, further to his reply to a previous parliamentary question in March 2005, the discussions he has had with the European Commission on the declaration of intent by the Dublin and Merseyside regions with a view to assisting the two regions to further develop their partnership potential under EU regional policy post 2006; if the national strategic reference framework his Department is preparing provides for the possibility of the two city regions being able to co-operate under the various strands of the territorial cooperation measure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32216/05]
I stated in my reply to the Deputy on 23 March 2005 that my Department would continue to monitor the developments as they unfolded in the area of future EU structural policy, and that until such time as the proposals for the 2007-13 period had been agreed, and the areas of eligibility defined, it would not be possible to make specific proposals in regard to any future Structural Funds. With regard to the Dublin-Merseyside declaration of intent, I stated that the concerns of the Dublin region would be taken into consideration in the framing of any future programming proposals. This remains the position.
At that time in March 2005, it was hoped that agreement on the financial perspectives for the 2007-13 period and the Structural Funds regulations might be achieved by June 2005, as stated in my reply to the question. However, it was not possible to reach such agreement and discussions are ongoing. Therefore, as indicated, no specific proposals can be made until such time as agreement on the financial perspectives for the period 2007-13 has been achieved.
It should also be noted that the national strategic reference framework cannot be finalised until the financial perspectives for the period 2007-13 have been achieved. My Department is undertaking preliminary work as part of the preparation of the framework. It is not intended to contain specific commitments to projects of the type mentioned by the Deputy.
119 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the services available on the Irish market which comply with the directive issued by him in February 2003 to ComReg requiring that retail flat rate dial up internet access services be made available to the Irish public. [32067/05]
Flat rate Internet access caller origination, FRIACO, was introduced in June 2003, following a policy direction issued to the Commission for Communications Regulation by my predecessor. I understand that there are approximately 100,000 customers using FRIACO at present.
120 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the section of welded pipe in the vicinity of the proposed gas terminal building in Bellanaboy corresponds to the pipelines details as contained in the original application for such a pipeline in 2001. [32084/05]
I presume the Deputy is referring to the consent to construct a pipeline given by my predecessor in April 2002. I am informed that the pipeline design corresponds to that for which consent was granted.
121 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the offices of his Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations where each of them are scheduled to relocate to under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32098/05]
The Irish Coast Guard of my Department operates an engineering and equipment storage facility in Finglas and the Department owns and operates the fisheries harbour centre at Howth. Apart from these facilities, the Department does not have any offices on the north side of Dublin.
122 Mr. English asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the exchanges in County Meath that still do not have access to broadband; the expected timeframe involved in the exchanges being upgraded for the provision of broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32144/05]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the fully liberalised private sector, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. The upgrading of telephone exchanges for the provision of broadband is an operational matter for Eircom, and I do not have any function in the matter.
123 Mr. English asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount of money allocated for coastal protection works in County Meath for each of the years 2002, 2003, 2004 and to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32145/05]
Responsibility for coastal protection rests with the property owner whether it be a local authority or a private individual. The Department has received various reviews, reports and studies from Meath County Council with regard to coast protection works in County Meath. These are being reviewed in conjunction with the coastal protection strategy study which was initiated by the Department in 2002 to review coastal protection generally, examine policy options and set out a basis for effective decision making in regard to resource allocation. This study is currently in progress. In 2004 the Department provided funding of €30,000 to Meath County Council towards a feasibility study for beach restoration at Laytown-Bettystown. There was no Exchequer funding available in 2002, 2003 or 2005 for coastal protection works in County Meath. However, the scope for funding coastal protection works will be kept under review by the Department in the context of funding available for coastal protection in future years and overall national priorities.
124 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when broadband connection will be provided in the Kilmacanogue area of County Wicklow (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32239/05]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
It has been clear for some time that the sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband, so my Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. The metropolitan area networks, MANs, offer the private sector service providers access to world-class broadband services at competitive costs.
Nineteen MANs are now completed, and a further seven are nearing completion. The second phase of the programme involves the building of MANs in a further 93 towns with a population of 1,500 and over that do not have a satisfactory broadband offering from the service providers. Design and procurement has already commenced in four towns in County Wicklow, namely Kilcoole, Enniskerry, Newtownmountkennedy and Blessington.
For rural communities, smaller towns such as Kilmacanogue, and the hinterlands of larger towns, my Department offers funding under the county and group broadband scheme to enable these communities to become self-sufficient in broadband, in association with the service providers. Four schemes have been approved in County Wicklow to date — Rathdrum, north east Wicklow, Carnew and Laragh. Full details of the scheme, including application procedures, are on the website www.gbs.gov.ie.
My Department's website www.broadband.gov.ie lists all service providers offering broadband services in all towns in Wicklow, and gives contact details for each company, together with prices for the various service levels on offer.
125 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the offices of his Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations where each of them are scheduled to relocate to under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32099/05]
The Department of Foreign Affairs has offices in two locations on the north side of Dublin. These are the passport office in Balbriggan and the archives section in Finglas. Neither office is scheduled to decentralise.
126 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the way in which Mr. RoryCarroll was rescued in Iraq; and if a ransom was paid for his release. [32112/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply of 25 October 2005 on the release of Rory Carroll. The question of the payment of a ransom did not arise in our consideration of the case, nor in any discussions which we had.
127 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the offices of his Department that are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations to which each of them are scheduled to relocate under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32100/05]
My Department has been selected to transfer to Killarney. My Department does not have any offices on the north side of Dublin.
128 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if funding is available for a soccer club (details supplied) in County Galway; the other routes the club can take in terms of receiving funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32114/05]
The national lottery-funded sports capital programme administered by my Department allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The programme is advertised on an annual basis. In order for an organisation to be eligible for funding, it must submit an application within the application period in any given year.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the club in question has been allocated six grants since 1999 under the sports capital programme, amounting to a total of €1,297,428. All of the moneys in respect of these grants have been paid to the club by my Department. Applications for funding under the 2005 programme were invited through advertisements in the press on 5 and 6 December last. The closing date for receipt of applications was 4 February 2005 and a total of 1,362 applications was received. The club in question did not apply for funding at that time. In July, I announced provisional allocations of €54.385 million to 626 projects under the programme.
I intend to advertise and invite applications to the 2006 sports capital programme before the end of this year. It is open to the club in question, should it wish to do so and should it have a project which satisfies the terms and conditions of the programme, to submit an application for funding under the 2006 programme. In terms of other sources of funding, the Irish Sports Council provides substantial funding to the national governing bodies of sport, which in turn implement a range of support programmes in the areas of coaching and games and club development.
129 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to implement the droit de suite EU directive on the resale of art material. [32238/05]
In July 2005, the Government approved the drafting of legislation in the form of an intellectual property (miscellaneous provisions) Bill to transpose several European directives in the intellectual property field, including Directive 2001/84/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 September 2001 on droit de suite, the resale right for the benefit of the author of an original work of art.
Work is continuing on the legal drafting of the Bill which has been referred, for that purpose, to the Parliamentary Counsel. I intend to introduce the Bill at the earliest possible date. On this particular directive, my Department is working on the terms of the necessary legal transposition in consultation with the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism. I expect this will continue in establishing an operational implementation of artists' resale right, or droit de suite, in Ireland.
130 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he intends to introduce legislation to regulate property management companies (details supplied). [32278/05]
My sole departmental responsibility with regard to property management companies arises in the context of company law. Property management companies are generally constituted as companies limited by guarantee under the Companies Acts and are required to comply with the relevant provisions of company law.
The operation of such companies under their relevant memorandum and articles of association is a matter for determination by the company members, who are the owners of the properties in question. If a member or creditor of such a company believes a company law offence has been committed, he or she should complain to the Director of Corporate Enforcement.
The impact of legal provisions other than company law, for example contract law, on property management companies is not within my policy remit. Aggrieved members or creditors in these cases must take the civil or criminal law route appropriate to the legal provisions at issue. A major simplification of company law, including simplification of the law applying to guarantee companies, is well in train and I hope to bring proposals to Government to draft the general scheme of this Bill early in 2006.
131 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of manufacturing jobs created in south Kildare in the years 2002-05; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32087/05]
The numbers of full-time manufacturing jobs created in County Kildare in companies assisted by the enterprise development agencies were 875 in 2002, 846 in 2003 and 1,045 in 2004. Because the figures are compiled by each county on an annual basis, those for 2005 are not yet available. Overall permanent employment in agency-supported firms in County Kildare has increased from 8,847 in 1995 to 15,698 in 2004, an increase of more than 75%, which is significantly above the national average.
Irish enterprise policy is being actively refocused towards creating conditions that will make possible a sustained shift to higher-skill, knowledge-intensive activities and in which advanced manufacturing expertise will be an important contributor to growth and employment. Almost 60% of total employment in Kildare is in companies that are part of the technologically advanced sectors, compared to 45% nationally. The county's position as an attractive location for knowledge-based industry in the future has also been bolstered by significant investment in recent years in technological infrastructure in the National University of Ireland, NUI, Maynooth. Since 2002, Enterprise Ireland has approved more than €3.3 million to support innovation partnerships between NUI Maynooth and industry.
Since 2002, Enterprise Ireland has approved more than €7.5 million to its client companies in the county to assist them with their development plans, including research and development. In addition to direct finance, Enterprise Ireland has a range of service offerings to encourage the set-up of high-tech, high-opportunity indigenous enterprises. There are more than 170 Enterprise Ireland supported client companies in County Kildare. Enterprise Ireland also works with other local agencies and organisations in the county to develop the local business infrastructure.
In addition to targeting potential new projects, IDA also works with its existing client base with a view to supporting these companies with expansion and diversification of their activities, which will strengthen their presence in the region. Over the past five years, IDA's focused strategy for Kildare has been to promote the county as part of an integrated east region. Kildare has, in recent years, attracted some world-class manufacturing companies such as Wyeth Medica and Oral B.
Kildare continues to thrive across a broad range of activities in a number of important sectors. As a result, many job opportunities are being created within the county. I am confident that the strategies and policies pursued by the enterprise development agencies will continue to maximise sustainable investment and jobs for the people of Kildare.
132 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the offices of his Department that are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations to which each of them are scheduled to relocate under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32101/05]
There are four offices associated with my Department on the north side of Dublin. These are the Companies Registration Office, Office of the Registrar of Friendly Societies, Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement and the Competition Authority. The Companies Registration Office and Office of Registrar of Friendly Societies have been selected as part of the decentralisation programme and both will be relocated to Carlow. Neither the Competition Authority nor the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement are included in the current decentralisation programme. Both of these offices will be retained in their present locations.
With regard to the timeframe for relocation, my Department was identified as an "early mover" in the third report of the decentralisation implementation group. That report gave an indicative timeline of the second quarter of 2008 for completion of the Department's new building in Carlow. We are working to this timeframe.
133 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a task force was set up in the Cavan region at the time a company (details supplied) failed to set up the new factory there as promised; if there was such a task force, the progress it has made towards a replacement company; if inward visits have been made to Cavan town or county in an effort to provide foreign investment for the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32132/05]
I understand that a task force was not set up at the particular time. However, the establishment of a financial services operation in Cavan town, which now employs almost 1,000 people, has been of particular benefit to the area as a whole.
The industrial development agencies continue to promote the area for both overseas and indigenous industry. Cavan Business Park has received approximately €1 million in funding from IDA Ireland for upgrading to make it more attractive for inward investment. While there has been only one site visit to Cavan in recent times, IDA Ireland's Cavan site is consistently marketed by the agency's network of overseas offices and frequently features in its presentations to potential inward investors visiting the north-east region. Enterprise Ireland's main area of activity in County Cavan is the further development of the building construction materials sector and the agency is working with a number of companies in this regard. Several food companies are also emerging in the county with assistance from Enterprise Ireland.
I am satisfied that the strategies adopted by the industrial development agencies under the aegis of my Department will be successful in attracting further employment and investment opportunities for County Cavan.
134 Mr. English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of site visits to Navan the industrial promotion agencies have made in each of the years 2002, 2003, 2004 and to date in 2005; the number of such visits planned for the remainder of 2005; the priority he has instructed the industrial promotion agencies to give to job creation in Navan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32135/05]
Support for job creation and investment is a matter for the industrial development agencies. Under the Industrial Development Acts, I may give general policy directives to IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland but am precluded from giving directives regarding individual undertakings or from giving preference to one area over others. Ultimately, decisions regarding where to locate, including what areas or sites to visit as potential locations, are taken by investors.
IDA Ireland is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment. I understand that from 2002 to date, a total of 30 site visits have been made to Navan and it is anticipated that a further two or three will be made before the end of 2005. Of the total, five took place in 2002, five in 2003, 11 in 2004 and nine in 2005 to date.
I understand from the agency that its strategy for County Meath is to target greenfield and expansion projects in financial services, international services and information and communication technology with particular emphasis on the marketing of Athlumney House, Navan to financial and international services companies. The securing of the PFPC hedge fund project with 290 jobs at Athlumney House is a very satisfactory outcome.
Site visits have concentrated on the Navan area in the period of January to February 2005. The full resources of local and regional bodies are being utilised in presenting the advantages of Navan and County Meath as a location for business and investment. Since the beginning of 2002, Enterprise Ireland, the agency with primary responsibility for fostering indigenous industry, approved almost €8 million in support to its client companies in County Meath and made payments of more than €5 million in the same period. This investment involved support in areas such as research and development capability, building and process development.
Meath is becoming an attractive location for Dublin-based firms wishing to expand their operations. Lir Chocolates is a notable example of a firm that wished to expand its sales exports and employment, but was constrained in a city-centre location. The company relocated the business to the Navan IDA Business Park in July 2004 and received support from Enterprise Ireland to grow its business in the new location. Enterprise Ireland has approved grants totalling €277,000 for the establishment of Navan Community Enterprise Centre. The centre is fully occupied and more than 200 people are employed in various enterprises there.
135 Mr. English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will establish a jobs task force for Navan given that the life cycle of Tara Mines is nearing an end; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32136/05]
I understand from my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, that, based on currently identified resources, the mines in question are expected to operate until at least 2013. I further understand discussions are taking place for two additional State mining facilities for underground extensions to the mines, one to the north and one to the south west of existing underground workings. Exploration for further reserves is ongoing.
The industrial development agencies continue to promote the area for industrial development. If further initiatives regarding job creation become necessary, these should be taken under the auspices of the county development board, on which the agencies are represented, rather than creating a further layer by establishing a task force.
136 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment whether the abolition of the groceries order would result in below-cost selling of alcohol; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32219/05]
My Department has compiled a detailed report following the recent public consultation process on the future of the groceries order. I will consider its findings carefully before making any judgments in the matter or making any recommendations to Government. However, the prohibition contained in the order as it stands is a ban on selling at below net invoice price. Net invoice price is not a true reflection of cost as it does not allow for any off-invoice discounts available to the retailer to be passed on to the consumer.
137 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans for a science discovery centre in Carlow town; the funding that has been provided for the proposed centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32242/05]
The programme for Government includes a commitment to support the development of interactive science centres aimed at enhancing knowledge and interest in science. This commitment was underpinned by the report of the task force on the physical sciences and a comprehensive Forfás report on the subject which recommended the establishment of a science centre comprised of one major facility in Dublin and two smaller centres in the regions. Since then my Department has supported the establishment of Exploration Station, an interactive learning centre for children and young adults and the general public, to be designed and run by the Irish Children's Museum Limited, a not-for-profit company with experience in developing such a world-class interactive facility. It is hoped, subject to planning and related considerations, that Exploration Station will open its doors to the public in 2007 at a site in Westgate, Kilmainham, adjoining the Royal Hospital. No funding has been made available to Exploration Station.
I have no plans for a science centre in Carlow town at present. However, once Exploration Station is up and running, my intention is to consider extending the initiative to regional centres based on the Dublin model. I am aware that Carlow County Council, in conjunction with Carlow Institute of Technology, made a proposal to establish a science centre in 2001. This matter will be revisited in future by my Department, taking into account costs, feasibility, regional spread and revised proposals.
138 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the great difficulty faced by persons on the disability allowance when it comes to paying heating bills; his views on a waiver scheme for fixed-supply charges and VAT for those in receipt of this payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32111/05]
The electricity allowance covers normal standing charges and up to 1,800 units of electricity each year. VAT due on this standard allowance is also covered. The value of the allowance, if fully taken up, is €359.91 per annum.
The natural gas allowance is an alternative to the electricity allowance for people whose homes are connected to a natural gas supply. On the standard tariff, the allowance covers the supply charge and up to 500 kwh in winter billing periods and up to 58 kwh of gas in summer periods. If natural gas is paid on another tariff, an equivalent allowance is paid. The value of this allowance, if fully taken up, is €250.02 per annum.
The objective of these allowances is to provide for a basic standard of electricity and natural gas usage. Proposals to enhance these allowances would be a matter for consideration in a budgetary context.
139 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in view of the need for additional funding to develop and extend the services of the Balbriggan citizens’ information centre for 2006, the necessary finance will be made available to continue this much needed service. [32160/05]
My Department funds Comhairle, the statutory agency responsible for providing people with access to accurate, comprehensive and clear information relating to social services. Comhairle supports and funds a network of citizens' information services to provide information, advice and advocacy services on a wide range of civil and public services.
In 2005, Comhairle provided direct funding of €8,223,388 to citizens' information centres, CICs, an increase of 107% since 2001. Balbriggan CIC is managed by Fingal, north county, citizens' information service, which also provides information services from Swords, Skerries, Malahide and Donaghmede. Swords CIC provides a full-time information service and the other centres provide part-time services. In total, Fingal citizens' information service provides 92 hours service weekly in north County Dublin. Funding to Fingal citizens' information service has increased from €164,210 in 2003 to €257,405 in 2005.
Balbriggan CIC is open 21 hours per week. It is staffed by one part-time information officer, funded by Comhairle. The centre has recently recruited three additional staff under various Government employment support schemes and two volunteer workers. My Department has been informed by Comhairle that a proposal has been received from Fingal, north county, citizens' information service in regard to the development of a full-time information service in Balbriggan. The proposal will be considered in the light of the demand for services in the area, the development needs of the Balbriggan centre and the budgetary resources available for citizens' information services in 2006.
140 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the way in which his Department officials assessed the value of a house (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of its condition and location, during a means assessment for a person. [32342/05]
In the course of the means investigation, the person concerned was asked to provide valuation of a house, not his place of residence, which is owned by him. As this information was not received, the social welfare inspector estimated the value of the property at €100,000. This valuation may be revised on receipt of an appropriate valuation from the person concerned. In the meantime, he may appeal this decision and a form for this purpose was issued to him on 20 October 2005 which has not been returned.
Under social welfare legislation, decisions in regard to claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in making such decisions.
141 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the offices of his Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations where each of them are scheduled to relocate to under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32383/05]
Under the Government's decentralisation programme all of the Department's headquarters sections based in Dublin are due to relocate to six locations throughout the country — Sligo, Carrick-on-Shannon, Drogheda, Donegal, Buncrana and Carrickmacross. The headquarters offices on the north side of Dublin city are: Áras Mhic Diarmada, Store Street, Dublin 1; Gandon House, Amiens Street, Dublin 1; 16 Parnell Square, Dublin 1; and Print and Stores, Shanowen Road, Santry.
The Department has a number of local offices on the north side of Dublin, including Ballymun, Blanchardstown, Coolock, Kilbarrack, Navan Road and North Cumberland Street. There is a local and regional office in Finglas and a social welfare inspectorate office in Malahide. One headquarter section is accommodated in Finglas.
Decentralisation to Sligo and Carrick-on-Shannon is scheduled to be completed in 2007. Decentralisation to Carrickmacross is scheduled for the end of 2008, and to Drogheda, Donegal and Buncrana for 2009. Final decisions on sections relocating to Sligo and Carrick-on-Shannon have been made and involve a number of sections based both on the northside and southside of the city. No final decisions have been taken on sections to be relocated to the other decentralisation locations.
When the programme is complete all headquarters sections in Dublin will have been relocated. There are no plans to relocate local or regional offices from Dublin.
142 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of children living in poverty; and the measures to tackle same. [32384/05]
The latest available child poverty data are from the EU survey of income and living conditions — EU SILC — for 2003. The EU SILC indicated that 23.9% of children are "at risk of poverty", that is, living in households with less than 60% of median equivalised income for their household size. Of these, approximately 14.6% of children are living in households with income below the 60% threshold and experiencing deprivation in at least one of eight indicators considered essential for a decent standard of living in Ireland today.
Detailed measures to give effect to the strategies to combat child poverty in Ireland are set out in the national action plan against poverty and social exclusion and in the national children's strategy. "Ending Child Poverty" is also one of ten special initiatives in Sustaining Progress.
The most significant measure to support families with children in recent years has been the very substantial real increases in child benefit payment rates. Between 1997 and 2005, the rate of child benefit rose from €38.09 per month for the first two children and €49.52 for each child thereafter to €141.60 per month for each of the first two children and to €177.30 per month for the third and each subsequent child. This equates to real increases in excess of 170%. Child benefit is paid to over 540,000 families in respect of approximately 1 million children, at an estimated cost of €1.9 billion in 2005. It delivers a standard rate of payment in respect of all children in a family regardless of income levels or employment status. Providing income support in this way thus creates no obstacles to employment and facilitates employment take up by providing significant support with child care costs.
Through the family income supplement scheme, my Department provides cash support by way of weekly payments to families at work on low pay. Recent improvements to the scheme, including the assessment of entitlements on the basis of net rather than gross income and progressive increases in the income limits, have made it easier for more lower income households to qualify under the scheme.
In a significant proportion of households with children there is no full time or part-time employment. These households mainly include recipients of the one-parent family payment or of payments in respect of disability and unemployment. In other households with bigger families, only one parent may be able to take up employment, which results in a lower family income. A study is currently being carried out by the NESC into the possibility of amalgamating child dependent allowances and family income supplement into a second tier of child income support aimed at families on low incomes.
A sub-group of the senior officials group on social inclusion has been undertaking a detailed examination of obstacles to employment for lone parents. As part of this work, my Department is nearing the completion of a review of income supports and I hope to complete this work in the near future.
The provision of affordable and flexible child care is also a key factor in facilitating employment participation for families with children. My Department is participating in an interdepartmental working group on early child care and education, chaired by the National Children's Office. The work of this committee is at an advanced stage and the outcome will make an important contribution to finding the right mix of services and income support to facilitate employment take up and care for children.
We also need to monitor and evaluate the outcomes of the policies being pursued on the development of our children and get the necessary evidence on what works and works well. This process is about to commence with a major national longitudinal study on children. My Department and the Department of Health and Children, through the National Children's Office, are jointly funding this study. The study will be the most significant of its kind to be undertaken here, particularly in terms of the cost, scope and length of study period. It is anticipated that 10,000 children from birth and 8,000 children aged nine will be recruited to participate in the study.
I am confident that, through the measures already being taken and the initiatives being planned, we can make a major contribution to ensuring that vulnerable families and their children have a fair share of life chances and quality of life.
143 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport the projected timescale under which an upgrade of the rail service to Athy, County Kildare, as a full commuter service is envisaged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32095/05]
The scheduling of rail services is an operational matter for Irish Rail. However, I have been informed by the company that in December 2004, in response to the growing commuter demand from Athy and Carlow, an additional later evening peak commuter service departing Dublin at 19.45 was introduced. Irish Rail is also examining the possibility of providing an additional morning peak commuter train from March 2006, which would arrive at Heuston shortly after 08.30. This will close the substantial gap in the morning train service from Athy and offer a second peak commuter service.
144 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the offices of his Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations where each of them are scheduled to relocate to under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32103/05]
My Department has no office on the north side of Dublin that is due to relocate under the decentralisation programme.
145 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport if the Great Southern Hotels group will be retained in public ownership. [32127/05]
In accordance with the State Airports Act 2004, the three airport authorities, including the Dublin Airport Authority, are currently preparing comprehensive business plans for their airports. The Dublin Airport Authority will, as part of its business plan, address the position of its principal subsidiaries, including the future of the Great Southern Hotels, GSH, group. I will consider the DAA's proposals in consultation with the Minister for Finance. It would not be appropriate to comment about the future of the group at this stage.
146 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the aggregate value of tolls raised in 2002 and his estimate for the value in 2005; the amount of this which is returned as revenue to a public authority, distinguishing that which goes to the Exchequer from that which goes to local authorities and so on; and the main locations from which tolls are raised. [32157/05]
The statutory power to levy tolls on national roads, to make toll by-laws, and to enter into toll agreements with private investors in respect of national roads is vested in the National Roads Authority, NRA, under Part V of the Roads Act 1993, as amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000. Tolls were raised in 2002 on both the East Link and West Link bridges. Toll revenues raised on the East Link bridge are a matter for Dublin City Council.
In respect of the West Link bridge, gross toll revenue in 2002 amounted to €35,949,000, including VAT, of which the licence fee, also described as the State's share of the gross toll revenues, payable by the PPP company to the State under the terms of the West Link bridge toll agreement amounted to €9,219,706, excluding VAT.
In 2004, the latest year for which data are available, tolls were raised on two national roads, the West-Link bridge and the M1. In respect of the West-Link bridge, gross toll revenue in 2004 amounted to €58,896,000, including VAT, of which the licence fee under the terms of the West-Link bridge toll agreement amounted to €15,093,576, excluding VAT. I am informed by the NRA that with regard to the M1, gross toll revenue in 2004 amounted to €17 million, including VAT, of which approximately €11 million, excluding VAT, was remitted to the NRA. During the construction period the PPP agreement provided that a high proportion of tolls collected at Drogheda was to be paid to the NRA.
Data for 2005 are not yet available. By the end of 2005, tolls will be raised on three national roads, the West Link, the M1 at the Drogheda bypass and the M4-M6 at Kilcock-Kinnegad.
In addition to licence fee receipts to the Exchequer, VAT is payable on toll charges, corporation tax is payable on the toll company's profits and income tax is payable on distributed income of the PPP company's shareholders. The exact amounts returned to the Revenue Commissioners in taxation are matters for the toll operators and the Revenue Commissioners. Rates are payable on tolling activity by the PPP company to the appropriate local authority.
147 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Transport if an off-road compound has been secured in Letterkenny to allow drivers of articulated vehicles in Donegal to sit their test in Letterkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32175/05]
A suitable location has been identified in Letterkenny to facilitate driving tests for articulated vehicles. Final arrangements are being made by the OPW which will allow such testing to resume shortly.
148 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if the transition period envisaged for Shannon Airport prior to the introduction of a full open skies policy is three years; the reason he is not negotiating for a longer period; if he will introduce public service obligation levies for certain routes between Shannon and the United States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32176/05]
As I have indicated in responses to previous questions, it is my clear intention to ensure that an EU-US open skies agreement contains an appropriate transitional arrangement for Shannon. The details of the transition arrangement will be a matter for negotiation with the US. I do not propose to compromise my negotiating position by giving details of what I might seek at this stage.
There is no proposal under consideration at present for the introduction of a public service obligation, PSO, regime for air services between Shannon and the United States. Such an arrangement would not be permitted under the existing EU regulations governing PSOs, which relate solely to intra-regional air services within the EU.
149 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Transport the road death statistics to date in 2005 for the Dublin mid-west area; and the breakdown in figures into different categories, that is, motor-cars, motorcyclists, pedestrians and cyclists. [32187/05]
150 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Transport the road death statistics for the period 2003, 2004 and to date in 2005, where alcohol has been identified as a contributing factor, in the area of Dublin mid-west; and if he will make a statement on his plans for the prevention of drink driving. [32188/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 149 and 150 together.
Statistics relating to road accidents, based on information provided by the Garda Síochána, are published by the National Roads Authority, NRA, in its annual road accident facts reports. The most recent report, now entitled "Road Collision Facts", relates to 2003 and is available on the NRA website. Reports relating to previous years are available in the Oireachtas Library. Provisional figures for 2005 indicate that, as of 1 November, 323 people lost their lives in road traffic collisions.
The road collision reports include data relating to the number of fatal and non-fatal collisions in each county and in the case of Dublin, for each of the four Dublin local authority areas. Figures relating to the specific local authority areas for 2005 will not be available until the NRA has fully analysed and authenticated the 2005 statistics.
151 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Transport the regulations relating to the maximum noise levels from motorised vehicles in residential areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32189/05]
It is a requirement for the registration and entry into service of new motor vehicles in the European Union that they have type approval in accordance with Directive 70/157/EEC, as amended by Directive 1999/101/EC, which sets down the permissible sound levels and exhaust systems for motor vehicles. Vehicle in-service standards are specified in the Road Traffic (Construction, Equipment and Use of Vehicles) Regulations 1963 which requires vehicles to be fitted with a silencer or other device that is suitable and sufficient for reducing to a reasonable level the noise caused by the escape of exhaust gases from the engine.
Article 85 of these regulations prohibits the use in a public place of a vehicle which causes excessive noise but the regulations do not make specific mention of residential areas. Enforcement of this prohibition is a matter for the Garda Síochána. I intend to discuss this issue, and other relevant issues, with my Department officials and the Garda Síochána.
152 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Transport when integrated ticketing, that will include the Luas, will be available to public transport users in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32190/05]
The proposed contactless smartcard-based integrated ticketing system, for which the Railway Procurement Agency, RPA, was given statutory responsibility, is, in line with international experience, being introduced on a phased basis, initially in the Dublin area. In advance of the introduction of full smartcard technologies, magnetic strip based integrated ticketing already exists for travel on Luas, Dublin Bus and Irish Rail services on a bilateral basis between the companies. A ticket for travelling on the services of both Luas and a private operator, Morton's Coaches, has also recently been finalised.
As part of the phased introduction of smartcard based integrated ticketing, in April 2004 Morton's Coaches, in conjunction with the RPA and as a "proof of concept", successfully launched smartcards on its services. Last March, another step was taken with the launch of smartcards on Luas services. To date, approximately 9,000 smartcards have been purchased for use on Luas services. The Luas smartcard deployment is helping to obtain important feedback from passengers and provide operational experience for the next stage of integrated ticketing.
Following an inconclusive procurement procedure earlier this year for the selection of an integrated ticketing provider and operator, the RPA commenced work on a revised procurement strategy. The finalisation of that procurement strategy will assist the RPA in determining a revised target implementation date.
153 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce compulsory basic training for motorcyclists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32191/05]
155 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce compulsory basic training for car drivers and learners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32193/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 153 and 155 together.
The Government's strategy for road safety 2004 to 2006 identified speed, seatbelt wearing, driving while intoxicated, engineering measures and vulnerable road users as the key priority areas to be addressed over the coming years in terms of yielding road safety benefits. As regards motorcyclists, the strategy states that it is the intention over the course of the strategy to introduce compulsory initial practical training for motorcyclists before they are permitted to drive alone on a public road. A working group comprising motorcycle interests has been considering the appropriate standards that will apply in this area and the standards with which instructors must comply. Overseeing the introduction of such training will be the responsibility of the proposed Road Safety Authority.
There are no proposals to introduce such compulsory training for other learner drivers. Proposals being developed by my Department for the regulation and quality assurance of driving instruction will involve a test of the competence of individual instructors to a set standard. The proposed Road Safety Authority will be responsible for implementing the standard of driving instruction and establishing a register of driving instructors.
154 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Transport the amount of funding which was allocated to the winter road safety plan launched recently that involves advertising, press advertisements and poster advertising; and if he will make a statement on the issue of road safety. [32192/05]
The National Safety Council, NSC, is the agency mandated with responsibility for road safety advertising and education. The council has been allocated €3.965 million from the Exchequer in 2005. The council also receives funding from the Irish Insurance Federation, IIF, and from private sponsorship.
A joint National Safety Council-Garda Síochána winter road safety campaign, called "Arrive Alive", was launched on Monday, 24 October 2005. The campaign, which is costing €220,000, is being fully funded by the IIF.
156 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the amount of kilometres of national roads which will be completed by the National Roads Authority in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32244/05]
The planning, design and implementation of national road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority, NRA, under the Roads Act 1993. I understand from the NRA that 70 km of motorway-dual carriageway and 20 km of single carriageway will be completed and open to traffic during 2005.
157 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the number of park and ride spaces available in the Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32245/05]
At present in the greater Dublin area, there are 6,353 park and ride spaces on the suburban rail, including DART and Luas networks. Some 4,748 of these are located at 32 locations on the suburban rail network and the remaining 1,605 at four locations on the Luas red and green lines.
158 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the amount allocated and drawn down in terms of implementation of traffic management systems in the Dublin area over the period 2000 to 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32246/05]
Funding of traffic management systems in the Dublin area operates through traffic management grants from central Government to the Dublin Transportation Office. The Estimates process for 2006 is currently being finalised, and Estimates for the year will be published in the near future by the Minister for Finance. The amount, in euros for all years, allocated and drawn down in terms of implementation of traffic management systems in the Dublin area over the period 2000 to 2005, as requested by the Deputy, is as follows:
|
Year |
Estimate |
Outturn |
|
2000 |
32,131,992 |
32,131,992 |
|
2001 |
33,457,598 |
33,457,598 |
|
2002 |
30,000,000 |
28,600,000 |
|
2003 |
40,000,000 |
40,000,000 |
|
2004 |
40,000,000 |
37,000,000 |
|
2005 |
40,000,000 |
40,000,000* |
* Estimated Outturn.
159 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the amount allocated to the development of mainline rail over the period 2000 to 2006; the total amount drawn down to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32247/05]
160 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the amount which has been allocated to national public transport, excluding mainline rail, over the period 2000 to 2006; the amount which has been drawn down to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32248/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 159 and 160 together.
The total amount of Exchequer capital funding expended on the development of public transport over the period 2000-2004 was €1,887 million.
|
Year |
Outturn |
|
2000 |
252,850,610 |
|
2001 |
344,489,217 |
|
2002 |
390,228,615 |
|
2003 |
436,807,564 |
|
2004 |
295,670,021 |
|
2005 |
426,132,000* |
*estimated outturn.
The anticipated spend for 2005 is €426 million. The indicative capital allocation for 2006 set out in the 2005 budget will be amended in light of Transport 21, the ten year investment framework for transport.
The total draw down for public transport programmes and projects in 2005, to the end of October, is €238.6 million.
Expenditure on track work and railway safety over the period relates to the entire Irish Rail network and it is not possible to identify accurately the amounts spent specifically on the mainline network. However, in the case of rolling stock and signalling for the Intercity network the following is the case:
|
€m |
|
|
67 Intercity Carriages |
51.90 |
|
120 Intercity Railcars |
72.25 |
|
Signalling Projects |
27.08 |
161 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if his Department remains committed to the development of a Luas line from Shanganagh-Swords via Finglas, Blanchardstown and Clondalkin to Tallaght and a second Luas line from Citywest to the city centre via Tallaght and Kimmage as set out in both the national development plan and the DTO’s Platform for Change; if so, when work will commence on these lines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32249/05]
I announced a new transport investment programme, Transport 21, on Tuesday, 1 November last. This ambitious programme underlines the Government's commitment to develop a world-class transport system for the 21st century. The Minister for Finance and I engaged extensively on the preparation of this landmark framework which involves the investment of over €34 billion in current prices in the ten year period 2006 to 2015.
Included in this programme is a commitment to seven new Luas projects and two new metro services: metro north from St. Stephen's Green to Swords serving places such as DCU, Ballymun and Dublin Airport; metro west, which is an orbital line serving places such as Clondalkin, Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown, will link with the Tallaght Luas line and metro north and will be built on a phased basis starting from the Tallaght end in 2010 and with a completion date of 2014; a new Luas line from Lucan to the city; the Tallaght Luas line will be extended to the Docklands; a spur will be provided off the Tallaght line to serve Citywest; Sandyford Luas line extension to Cherrywood; the Sandyford Luas line extension to Bray; the two Luas lines will be joined; this new cross-city link will subsequently be extended northwards to serve Broadstone and the new Dublin Institute of Technology campus at Grangegorman.
The Dublin Transportation Office's A Platform for Change continues to provide strategic framework for the development of the greater Dublin area's transport system. In that context feasibility studies and planning work will also be undertaken over the period of Transport 21 on other projects not included in this programme, but contained in A Platform for Change. However, funding to bring them to construction is not included in the ten-year envelope.
162 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the level of capacity which will be delivered as a result of the DART upgrade; when this upgrade work will be fully completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32250/05]
The DART upgrade project will deliver a capacity increase of 30% by providing for the operation of eight-car DARTs instead of the previous maximum of six cars. With a combination of the upgrade project and the introduction of additional rolling stock, the DART capacity will have increased by 100% since 2000.
The project will be substantively completed by year-end with some minor works to be completed in the early part of 2006. These minor works will not affect services to DART customers.
163 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the expected increase in passenger capacity, in numeric and percentage terms, of Dublin Bus over the period 2000-06; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32251/05]
In 1999, prior to the introduction of the national development plan, the capacity of the Dublin Bus fleet was 74,385, inclusive of standing capacity. By the end of 2000 capacity had increased to 82,590. By the end of 2005, it is estimated that the capacity will be 94,524. Furthermore, with the purchase of a further 20 double deck buses which I sanctioned on Tuesday last, it is expected that the capacity of the fleet will reach 96,324. This represents an increase in capacity of almost 30% since 1999.
Dublin Bus is currently carrying out a review of the bus network in Dublin and future bus needs. The company has advised me that this review will be completed early next year. I consider it appropriate at this stage to review the bus needs in Dublin given the significant changes in the greater Dublin area since 1999 when the NDP was drawn up, such as the introduction of the Luas, expanded commuter rail services, the DART upgrade and ongoing demographic changes.
164 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the amount of investment promised to Dublin Bus under the national development plan; the amount allocated and drawn down by Dublin Bus to date in 2005; the amount of investment expected to be spent by Dublin Bus by the end of the national development plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32252/05]
The national development plan, NDP, identifies spending of €152 million to increase the capacity and improve the quality, reliability, frequency and speed of bus services in the Dublin region. The investment programme involved the expansion of the bus network to meet demand, through the phased purchase of additional buses to increase passenger capacity and meet the development requirements of the network. In addition, an ongoing replacement and equipment renewal programme, costing €127 million, was identified to include the purchase by Dublin Bus of buses.
The NDP identifies the Exchequer, the EU and the State companies' own resources as the sources of funding for projects in the plan. A substantial element of the funding for the Dublin Bus replacement programme is provided from funds raised by the company.
Significant changes have taken place in Dublin since the start of the national development plan. These changes include substantial increases in rail capacity, such as Luas, commuter rail services and the DART upgrades, together with on-going demographic changes.
It is in this context that Dublin Bus is carrying out a review of the bus network in Dublin. The company has advised me that the bus network review will be completed early next year. The company is, in the first instance, assessing how to maximise the utilisation of its existing bus fleet. I anticipate that the company will respond to the challenge of meeting customer expectations in Dublin with new and innovative solutions.
The amount allocated from the Exchequer to Dublin Bus this year was €4.65 million and the amount drawn down to date is €1.171 million. In addition, in response to an application from Dublin Bus, I have now agreed to provide funding for an additional 20 buses this year to provide an immediate increase in capacity on the bus network.
At the end of 2005 it is expected that Dublin Bus will have received €105 million of Exchequer funds under the NDP. This is in addition to the funding provided by Dublin Bus from its own resources. Following the launch of Transport 21, the ten-year investment framework for transport, and the completion by the company of its network review, I will be reviewing the allocation of funding to Dublin Bus in respect of 2006.
165 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the way in which congestion is monitored here; the annual publications by State bodies under the aegis of his Department that record and public statistics on congestion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32253/05]
The Dublin Transportation Office, which comes under the aegis of my Department, is the principal State agency monitoring traffic congestion in the greater Dublin area, GDA.
The DTO monitors the performance of the DTO strategy against the objectives for each class of road user, as set out in A Platform for Change. The results of this monitoring exercise are included in the DTO road user monitoring report. The second such report, the 2005 road user monitoring report, has recently been completed and is available on the DTO website. Although this report does not include an actual indication of congestion, proxies for it are included in the form of journey time and speed survey results as well as traffic flow data from NRA traffic counters and supplemental DTO and Dublin City Council traffic surveys.
It should also be noted that the DTO has allocated funding to Dublin City Council to develop a real time congestion map, which is available on their website. Dublin City Council also provides a visual indication of congestion on their website via photos from traffic cameras located throughout the city council area.
If the Deputy wishes, I can arrange to have a copy of the DTO's 2005 road user monitoring report forwarded to her.
166 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the number and proportion of driving tests conducted in Irish in the past three years for which figures are available and the pass rate that prevailed in each of those years for those who sat the test in Irish. [32254/05]
The information sought by the Deputy is unavailable as there are no statistics kept on the number of driving tests conducted through Irish.
167 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that none of the Dublin-based diving test centres recorded a pass rate above the national average in any of the past three years; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that in the 2004 figures three of the six lowest pass rates were recorded in Dublin centres; the action he is taking to improve pass rates in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32255/05]
The driving test in Ireland is designed in accordance with the requirements of the European directives on driving licences, which set out the skills that a driver must demonstrate during a driving test. As in other EU countries there is a variation in the pass rate among test centres.
The pass rate may be influenced by a number of factors including the number of lessons taken by the candidate, the standard of instruction available and demographic factors. Our pass rate is consistent with the experience in other countries.
On consistency in the standard of the driving test, my Department undertook a comprehensive training programme for all driver testers in 2002 covering procedures for carrying out the test, guidelines to assess faults and training to enhance customer service in the delivery of the driving test. The work of all testers is monitored on an ongoing basis by supervisory driver testers to ensure that a uniform standard of test is maintained.
168 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the current number of female driving testers; and the action he has taken to provide a greater gender balance. [32256/05]
My Department currently employs 120 driver testing staff including eight female testers. The recruitment to these posts is a matter for the Public Appointments Service, which operates an equal opportunities policy.
169 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to have further discussions with trade unions within CIE prior to the heads of the proposed public transport commission Bill being agreed by Government. [32257/05]
I am currently considering the views and issues put to me by the various stakeholders during discussions to date on the reform of the public transport market. It would be premature to hold further discussions with the CIE unions until I have considered the range of issues put to me by all the stakeholders. However, it remains my intention to engage in a spirit of partnership with the stakeholders on the future direction of the public transport market.
170 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to separate the existing CIE superannuation scheme of 1951 in view of the proposed rationalisation of the CIE group; and if there will be no loss of employment. [32258/05]
Superannuation matters and employment levels within CIE are a matter for the group in the first instance. I have no proposals in that regard.
171 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the way in which the ten year transport investment plan will impact on the five year investment envelope for transport in view of the fact that they will overlap for some years. [32322/05]
The ten year transport capital investment framework — Transport 21 — announced on 1 November, will replace the current five year investment envelope as and from 1 January 2006.
172 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the consultations he has had with union representatives regarding the ten years transport investment plan or if he proposes any at this stage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32323/05]
The public transport partnership forum, originally established under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness and continued under Sustaining Progress, provides a mechanism for consultation with the social partners on public transport matters, including public transport investment requirements, priorities and programmes. During the course of 2005 there have been presentations and discussions on a range of public transport investments, including the implementation of land use and transportation strategies in the provincial cities, regional public transport services, the western rail corridor, rail, Luas and metro developments in the greater Dublin area, and public transport integration. The social partners made their views known at the presentations and discussions and these views were taken into account in the preparatory work on Transport 21.
173 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport when the review of the first year of the road safety strategy 2004-06 will be completed and when it will be published. [32326/05]
The Government strategy on road safety 2004-06 does not contain a commitment relating to the production of annual progress reports in the same manner as was the case with the first strategy. As I advised the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport yesterday, I intend to take the opportunity later in the year at a suitable occasion to give an outline of overall progress in relation to the delivery of the various elements that make up the strategy.
174 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the progress to date in 2005 in expanding the forensic analysis programme for driving under the influence of drugs. [32327/05]
The Medical Bureau of Road Safety continues to analyse blood and urine specimens received under the Road Traffic Acts for the presence of a drug or drugs where the level of alcohol determined is under the legal limit of 80mg-100ml in blood and 107mg-100ml in urine or when a specific request for drug analysis has been received from the Garda when the alcohol result is above the legal limit. The number received to the end of September 2005 was 527, which is 32% higher than the same period to September 2004.
175 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the number of low cost remedial measures that have so far been carried out on national roads and non-national roads under the road safety strategy 2004-2006 with a breakdown for each. [32328/05]
176 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the number of higher cost accident remedial measures carried out on national roads to date in 2005 under the road safety strategy 2004-2006. [32329/05]
177 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the number of traffic calming measures implemented so far on national roads under the road safety strategy 2004-2006. [32330/05]
178 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the progress to date in 2005 in the development of quality control of road safety audits. [32331/05]
200 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if the study into the collision history at the 109 high accident locations identified in the National Roads Authority high accident location report has been completed; the recommendations arising from the report; if same will be laid before the Houses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32370/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 175 to 178, inclusive, and 200 together.
The improvement and maintenance of national roads, including road safety engineering matters, is the responsibility of the National Roads Authority, NRA, and local authorities under the Roads Act 1993. The information sought is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
179 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport his decision regarding the proposal in the road safety strategy 2004-06 for the introduction of a procedure for the administrative disqualification for cases where the blood alcohol concentration is between 80mg-100ml and 100mg-ml. [32332/05]
180 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the progress to date in 2005 in reviewing legislation dealing with intoxicated driving as promised under the road safety strategy 2004-06; and when legislation will be published regarding same. [32333/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 179 and 180 together.
As I indicated yesterday to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport, of which the Deputy is a member, I am actively considering the issues of the introduction of an administrative disqualification for certain drink driving offences and a general review of the legislation relating to intoxicated driving with a view to making progress at an early date.
181 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an environmental report on pipeline aviation fuel along Griffith Avenue, Dublin 9; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32345/05]
This is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, as I understand that any such pipeline would of itself require an environmental impact assessment, EIA, under the EIA directives and regulations.
182 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the status of the interdepartmental review of road safety expenditure; when this review commenced and when it was completed; the recommendations that arose for his Department; and the actions he intends taking to meet implementation of these recommendations. [32346/05]
My Department chaired a steering group overseeing a cross-departmental review of road safety expenditure which examined expenditure incurred over the lifetime of the first road safety strategy 1998-2002. This review seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of all public spending on road safety and, to establish the impact of road safety performance on other areas, such as health and emergency services.
The steering committee consisted of representatives from the Departments of Transport, Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Health and Children, Finance and the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The committee for public management research was also represented in order to examine processes and outcomes of the review for future cross-departmental reviews and to provide general expert assistance. The steering group commenced the review in mid-2003 and the consultants engaged to carry out an analysis of identified expenditure submitted their report final report earlier this year. The report has been submitted to the committee for public management research for quality assessment before publication.
183 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the progress that has been made in meeting the objective of the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006 and of deciding the way in which to collate and use information acquired in road collision investigations. [32350/05]
The primary immediate investigative role in road accidents is vested in the Garda Síochána. Priority in such an investigation must be given to the determination of the causes of road accidents including whether a breach of the road traffic laws contributed to the occurrence. The Garda Síochána is the body empowered to make such a determination and to pursue criminal proceedings against any person who the Garda consider should be accused of the commission of an offence.
Garda reports are forwarded to the National Roads Authority and subsequently to each local authority for the purpose of the establishment of accident trends and causes generally and to facilitate the carrying out of remedial works relating to road infrastructure where such action is deemed to be necessary.
184 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken in considering the proposal under the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006 that local authorities develop local road safety plans as part of their roads function. [32352/05]
The National Safety Council, in consultation with the Department of Transport, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and the City and County Managers' Association, is developing a template for road safety action plans which will be piloted in ten chosen local authority areas. The results of these pilots will inform the development of models which can subsequently be applied in all local authority areas.
185 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport when he will provide a legal basis for control of use of mobile telephones by drivers as promised under the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006. [32355/05]
Arising out of advice from the Attorney General that the existing regulations on mobile telephone use by drivers may be ultra vires, the use of mobile telephones while driving is under examination in my Department in the overall context of in-vehicle information and communications technologies. Subject to the outcome of that examination it is my intention to include proposals related to the use of mobile telephones by drivers in the next appropriate road traffic Bill.
186 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the progress he has made in abolishing all exemptions from the requirements for adults to wear seat-belts; and the progress at EU level in respect of children. [32356/05]
The Road Traffic (Removal of Exemption from Wearing Seat Belts by Taxi Drivers) Regulations 2004 removed, with effect from 1 July 2004, the exemption whereby the driver of a taxi, hackney or limousine was not required to wear a seat-belt while driving such a vehicle. The question of the removal of other exemptions will be examined in the context of the legislation to give effect to EU Directive 2003/20/EC amending EU Directive 91/671/EEC relating to the compulsory use of safety belts in motor vehicles.
EU Directive 2003/20/EC requires safety belts to be used where they are fitted. The directive must be transposed into national law by 9 May 2006. Specific measures in the directive relating to children include prohibitions on the carrying in a car or goods vehicle of a child under three years of age unless restrained in an appropriate child restraint system; over three years of age and less than 150 cm in the front passenger seat unless restrained in an appropriate child restraint system.
The directive also provides for the termination of the three-for-two rule, where three children may be counted as two passengers when reckoning passenger capacity of a bus, for buses fitted with safety belts. Proposals to extend the requirements for safety belts to be fitted to all seats in all new vehicles, except for buses used on stage stop routes have been developed at EU level. Following the approval of these proposals by the European Parliament in May 2005 the way is clear for the Council of Ministers to adopt them as directives so that all new vehicles, including school buses, entering into service from a date yet to be settled will require to be fitted with safety belts.
187 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to support an EU directive that would set type approval standards for pedestrian friendly vehicle fronts. [32357/05]
Directive 2003/102/EC, relating to the protection of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users before and in the event of a collision with a motor vehicle and amending Council Directive 70/157/EEC, was transposed into Irish law by the European Communities (Motor Vehicle Type Approval) (Amendment) Regulations 2004 (SI 244 of 2004), the European Communities (Passenger Car Entry into Service) (Amendment) Regulations 2004 (SI 245 of 2004) and the European Communities (Mechanically Propelled Vehicle Entry into Service) (Amendment) Regulations 2004 (SI 246 of 2004).
These regulations require compliance with the requirements of the directive in regard to type-approval and first registration and entry into service requirements for new cars and car-derived vans. Ireland is also fully supportive of legislative proposals at European Council relating to the use of frontal protection systems, such as bull bars, on motor vehicles. Under these proposals tests are being proposed which would require that frontal protection systems are designed in a way that improves pedestrian safety and reduces the number of injuries.
188 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on progress to date in 2005 in preparing licensing regulations to discourage long-term reliance on provisional licences, as promised under the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006. [32358/05]
The Government's Strategy for Road Safety 2004 to 2006 states that driver licensing regulations will be amended to discourage long-term reliance on provisional licences. I am considering what amendments should be made in this regard. However, I regard the elimination of the present backlog of applications for driving tests as an important first step.
189 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on progress to date in 2005 in introducing a requirement for motorcyclists with provisional licences to display L-plates. [32359/05]
The Government's Strategy for Road Safety 2004 to 2006 states that driver licensing regulations will be amended to introduce a requirement that motorcyclists on provisional licences must display L plates. I propose to make the necessary regulations during the currency of the strategy.
190 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on his progress to date in 2005 in introducing on-the-spot fines for licensing and tachograph offences by heavy goods vehicles and buses. [32360/05]
Section 16 of the Road Transport Act 1999 provides for an on-the-spot fine in lieu of prosecution for offences under the Road Transport Acts and EU regulations on drivers' hours and rest periods. The commencement of this section has been the subject of discussions with the Attorney General's office and the advice now is that a provision in primary legislation will be required to ensure compatibility with current fixed penalty charges legislation before the proposed fines system can be brought into effect.
191 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the reason for the continued delay in the introduction of credit card plastic driving licences; and when he expects same to be ready. [32361/05]
In June 2003 a notice requesting the submission of tenders to supply a plastic card licence was published in the EU Official Journal. Several developments took place following receipt of tenders and the proposals were reviewed in the light of these developments. The changes included the publication of a draft EU directive on driving licences in October 2003 proposing the issuing of new licences in plastic card format only and allowing the introduction of an optional microchip on the driving licence. There have also been developments concerning anti-fraud protection measures and possible developments in e-Government. Having considered these matters it was decided not to proceed with the tender invitation of 16 June 2003. Preparation of a revised request for tender, to take account of these developments is under way in the Department of Transport.
192 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to agree a bilateral arrangement with the UK for the implementation of the EU convention on driving disqualification as promised under the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006. [32362/05]
The framework for the mutual recognition of driving disqualifications imposed in Britain or Northern Ireland and this State is contained in the European Union Convention on Driving Disqualifications. Legislation to support the application of the convention is contained in the Road Traffic Act 2002. The convention relates to disqualifications arising from a range of specified traffic offences including drink-driving, speeding and dangerous driving. Arrangements for the mutual recognition of driving disqualifications are being considered in the context of the British-Irish Council.
193 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date in 2005 that has been made in developing drug recognition programmes for doctors and gardaí as provided under the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006. [32363/05]
In September 2004 the director of the medical bureau of road safety and head of forensic medicine at University College, Dublin commenced teaching a postgraduate course in the higher diploma in forensic medicine at the university's faculty of medicine. This course includes teaching on drugs, alcohol and driving including drug recognition. The first cohort of doctors has completed the course and will graduate formally in December 2005.
Preliminary discussions have also been held in 2005 between the Garda national traffic bureau, the medical bureau of road safety and the department of forensic medicine at University College, Dublin with a view to the training of gardaí in the recognition of driving under the influence of drugs.
194 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to date in 2005 in pursuing the introduction of a scheme for testing imported vehicles before registration as promised under the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006. [32364/05]
This issue is referred to in the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006 and the strategy runs to 2006.
195 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to date in 2005 in making light commercial vehicles liable to roadworthiness tests at the same frequency as other classes, as promised under the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006. [32365/05]
The commitment to make light goods vehicles liable to roadworthiness testing tested at the same frequency as other classes of commercial vehicles was implemented by way of the European Communities (Vehicle Testing) (Amendment) Regulations 2004.
196 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport his decision in respect of the possibility of introducing a road worthiness test for motorcyclists; and the action he proposes to take. [32366/05]
This issue is referred to in the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006 and the strategy runs to 2006.
197 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to revise standards for large PSVs in line with the buses directive, as provided for in the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006. [32367/05]
Directive 2001/85/EC concerns the type approval of new buses. I am advised it is intended to transpose the directive into Irish law as soon as practicable.
198 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date in 2005 he has made in investigating opportunities to exploit intelligent transport systems and the emergence of electronic birth certificates for vehicles for road safety, as proposed in the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006. [32368/05]
The focus to date in progressing the vehicle-related measures contained in the Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006 has been on having light goods vehicles roadworthiness tested at the same frequency as other categories of commercial vehicles and on the possible introduction of a maximum height limit for vehicles. The question of vehicle-related intelligent transport measures will be considered in the context of the development of a ITS strategy for my Department. Such a strategy is provided for in the Department's statement of strategy 2005-2007. The introduction of electronic birth certificates for vehicles would have to be pursued in collaboration with the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government which have responsibility for vehicle registration matters.
199 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the progress he has made in pursuing the ratification of the 1958 Geneva agreement on vehicle regulation. [32369/05]
The 1958 UNECE agreement is concerned with the adoption of uniform technical prescriptions for wheeled vehicles, equipment and parts which can be fitted and used on wheeled vehicles and the conditions for reciprocal recognition of approvals granted on the basis of these prescriptions. By virtue of accession to the agreement by the European Community, the UNECE regulations that are binding on the European Community are binding also on Ireland. In these circumstances, it is not clear how ratification individually by Ireland would advance road safety in a practical way. I will keep the position under review.
201 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the changes in relation to charity law both implemented and under consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32068/05]
As the Deputy will be aware, there is a clear commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government to regulation of the charities sector through the enactment of a comprehensive reform of charity law in order to ensure accountability and to protect against abuse of charitable status and fraud. The new legislation will introduce an integrated system of mandatory registration, proportionate regulation and supervision. The independent regulatory body, to be positioned as the centrepiece of the regulatory regime, will be charged with setting up and maintaining a register of charities.
The proposed content of the new legislation has been the subject of an inclusive public consultation process in 2004 on the core legislative proposals and, in 2005, on the specialist aspect of charitable trust law reform.
I have already publicly signalled spring 2006 as our target for publication of the Bill and my Department continues to give priority to the work of advancing this important legislation.
For the information of the Deputy, no changes to charities legislation have been implemented in recent times. It has been over 40 years since the main legislation, the Charities Act 1961, was passed. The main trust law, which is also largely applicable to charitable trusts, dates back to the 19th century, to the Trustee Act 1893.
202 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will ensure that all debris has been cleared from a weir (details supplied) and that all sluice gates are completely open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32205/05]
The operation of the weir to which the Deputy refers is a matter for Waterways Ireland, a North-South Implementation Body co-sponsored by my Department and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in the North.
I am informed by Waterways Ireland that all the sluices have been open since 25 October 2005 and that the weir is free from debris.
203 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the offices of her Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations where each of them are scheduled to relocate to under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32104/05]
My Department's offices on the north side of Dublin are as follows: Horticulture Inspector's office, Bow Street, Dublin 1; Horticulture Inspector's office, Swords; Border inspection post, Dublin Port; Border inspection post, Dublin Airport; and Abbotstown laboratories and farm.
My Department's laboratories situated in Abbotstown are in the process of being transferred to Backweston, County Kildare. It is proposed that the farm situated in Abbotstown will be replaced by a farm at Longtown, Clane. Neither of these relocations are taking place under the decentralisation programme.
My Department's offices situated at the other locations mentioned above will be retained in their present locations.
204 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of farmers in County Kerry in receipt of EU subsidies or premia in 2003; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32167/05]
Details of the number of farmers in County Kerry in receipt of EU subsidies or premia in 2003 are set out in the table below:
|
Scheme |
Number of recipients |
|
Area based compensatory allowance |
7,435 |
|
Suckler cow premium |
3,162 |
|
Ewe premium |
2,115 |
|
Extensification premium |
4,420 |
|
Slaughter premium* |
4,871 |
|
Special beef premium* |
6,473 |
|
Arable aid |
183 |
* The figures shown refer to the number of payments made rather than applicants paid, as a producer may submit more than one application or slaughter animals on more than one date.
205 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of farmers in County Kerry who are in receipt of the single farm payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32168/05]
Approximately 8,500 farmers in County Kerry have established entitlements under the single payment scheme. The value of these entitlements is in excess of €47 million.
206 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of farmers in County Kerry who took part in the early retirement scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32170/05]
A total of 798 farmers in County Kerry entered the previous scheme of early retirement from farming which ran from 1994 to 1999. To date, 236 farmers in County Kerry have entered the current scheme which began in November 2000.
207 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when suckler cow and beef premium will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Donegal. [32199/05]
The person named submitted 12 applications under the 2004 special beef premium scheme, in respect of a total of 363 animals. Following computer validation, 59 of these animals were identified as non-CMMS compliant. Due to the high number of animals concerned, my Department has undertaken a detailed investigation of the case. On completion of these inquiries, eligibility under the scheme will be further considered.
The person named applied on 55 cows and 27 heifers under the 2004 suckler cow premium scheme. Inquiries into the identification of these animals are currently taking place and a decision regarding their eligibility for suckler cow premium will be made on completion of these inquiries.
208 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when suckler cow and beef premium will be awarded to a person (details supplied) Co Donegal. [32200/05]
The person named submitted nine applications under the 2004 special beef premium scheme, in respect of a total of 350 animals. Following computer validation, 79 of these animals were identified as non-CMMS compliant. Due to the high number of animals concerned, my Department has undertaken a detailed investigation of the case. On completion of these inquiries, eligibility under the scheme will be further considered. The person named applied on 59 cows and 23 heifers under the 2004 suckler cow premium scheme. Inquiries into the identification of these animals are currently taking place and a decision regarding their eligibility for suckler cow premium will be made on completion of these inquiries.
209 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the status of payment under the early retirement scheme from farming for a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32220/05]
It is a requirement of the EU regulations under which the early retirement scheme is implemented that the early retirement pension can be paid only as a supplement to any national retirement pension that the participant, and his or her spouse or partner in a joint management arrangement, may receive. This means that the value of any such national retirement pension, which includes contributory pensions, must be offset against the early retirement pension.
The person named entered the scheme on 11 August 2005 under the joint management arrangement. As the amount of her husband's contributory old age pension was greater than what would have been payable to her under the scheme, she was not entitled to any payment. When this was explained to her, she notified my Department on 21 October 2005 that she had decided to withdraw her application.
210 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when the recommendations of a report (details supplied) will be implemented; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32221/05]
The joint committee's examination of the early retirement scheme provided a welcome opportunity to air a wide range of issues and I believe that this in itself has been helpful in clarifying the position. Earlier this month I provided a detailed response to the report. Regrettably, I have not been able to accept a number of the committee's recommendations. They are precluded by elements of the EU regulations under which the current scheme and its predecessor are operated. Indeed, the European Commission has rejected a complaint brought against my Department on most of the issues which were also covered by the committee's report. However, the committee made other recommendations which I am still considering.
211 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her plans to implement regulations (details supplied); her views on less restrictive measures similar to other EU countries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32222/05]
212 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if her attention has been drawn to the fact that implementation of excessive and restrictive regulations (details supplied) could create an underground market for medicines; her views on opting for a balance between co-op stores, veterinary surgeons, pharmacies, farm stores; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32223/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 211 and 212 together.
On 22 October last, I announced my decisions on the main issues which had been raised during the consultative phase on draft regulations regarding veterinary medicines. I have also comprehensively outlined my approach in this area to the House on a number of occasions, the most recent of which was in response to a Private Members' motion on 19 and 20 October.
There is no basis for the assertion that I am putting in place a regime which is more restrictive than those applying in other EU countries. As I have clearly stated on a number of occasions, I am proceeding on the basis that for most current medicines, existing national prescription arrangements will be retained until the relevant criteria for exempting medicines from the prescription regime are finalised at EU level. On this basis, the only category of product which in due course will become subject to prescription control as result of the forthcoming regulations is intramammary mastitis treatments. These products are already restricted to prescription only in the majority of member states in the EU, including in the United Kingdom and, accordingly, the new regulations will merely bring the position in Ireland into line with the norm. Furthermore, I am not aware of any EU country which allows persons other than vets to prescribe these and other antibiotic treatments. As I have indicated in my statement on the 22 October, the Irish Medicines Board will arrange the reclassification process for intramammaries with a view to having it complete by January 2007.
With regard to the issue of writing prescriptions generally, I have already stated publicly that I do not need to address this issue until the exemption criteria have been agreed at EU level, which must happen before 1 January 2007. I will review the situation in light of the outcome on the exemption criteria in the course of next year, in particular with regard to the qualifications needed by non-vets and the categories of product which may be prescribed by them with a view to ensuring continuing competition in the market place while at the same time protecting public and animal health.
In view of the fact that the prescription regime is to remain substantially unchanged for the present, there are no grounds for concern that the new regulations on veterinary medicines will lead to the creation of an underground market for medicines. In any event, I assure the Deputy that anyone who chooses to go outside of authorised channels for medicines will be subject to the full rigours of the law.
213 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the date by which farmers can apply to her Department to buy out their existing land annuities provided for in the Land Bill 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32241/05]
I intend to introduce the discounted buy-out scheme provided for in the Land Act 2005 from 1 January 2006.
214 Mr. M. Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when area based payment for 2005 will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [32264/05]
An application under the disadvantaged areas scheme-single payment scheme was received from the person named on 13 May 2005. The file of the person named was selected for inspection, including cross compliance inspection. The cross compliance inspection, which was conducted on 16 September 2005, revealed no problems. However, some eligibility criteria issues have arisen concerning the area declared by the person named. My Department is now arranging to make contact with him on the matter.
215 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the farm retirement pension will be re-instated for a person (details supplied) in County Sligo in view of the fact that the only income he is in receipt of from the lease of land is €2,500; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32265/05]
For persons entering the early retirement scheme in the year ended 31 December 2002, pensions are payable for a period of up to ten years but in any event not beyond a retired farmer's 68th birthday. The person named entered the scheme on 17 December 2002 and payment of his pension ceased on 2 May 2005 when he reached age 68.
216 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the payments a person (details supplied) will receive in the decoupling payment; when same will be issued; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32267/05]
An application under the single payment scheme was received from the person named on 4 May 2005. Details of his 26.23 entitlements, with a net value of €7,322.63, were issued on 18 November 2004. Payment under the disadvantaged areas scheme issued to the person named on 14 October 2005. Payments under the single payment scheme are due to commence on 1 December 2005, as provided for under EU regulations.
217 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when the 2005 area based payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32334/05]
The person named was paid his 2005 disadvantaged areas grant on 1 November 2005.
218 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether there is scope for introducing less adversarial arrangements for handling issues of access and custody in relation to children. [32078/05]
Policy in the law as it stands is that it is in the best interest of all concerned when parents can agree the arrangements for custody of and access to their children, rather than have the courts decide the matter. The Children Act 1997, by way of amendment of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964, places emphasis on alternative dispute resolution mechanisms involving counselling and mediation to assist agreement on the issues of custody, guardianship or access. The Act obliges the legal representatives of the parties to discuss the alternatives with them before the institution of proceedings. The court may adjourn any proceedings to assist agreement between the parties.
The Family Support Agency, operating under the aegis of the Department of Social and Family Affairs, following the enactment of the Family Support Agency Act 2001, brings together programmes designed to support ongoing parenting relationships for children. Its functions include the provision of a family mediation service, both directly or through support for others providing these services, and the administering of grants for such purposes.
219 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is intended that property management agencies and companies that undertake management functions for house-only developments will be licensed and regulated by the proposed new national property service regulatory authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32079/05]
In the report published recently, the auctioneering and estate agency review group noted that a wide range of services is being provided in today's property market, not all of which are licensed, and it recommended that they should be brought under an appropriate licensing regime. The report specifically recommended that professional property management agencies be licensed and regulated by the new regulatory authority. Following Government approval, I am now proceeding to establish the new national property services regulatory authority on an interim basis pending the enactment of the necessary legislation to place it on a statutory footing, and I expect it to be in place early in the new year.
220 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the length of time his Department will continue to provide asylum reception facilities at Magee Barracks, County Kildare in view of the decision by Government to undertake an affordable housing development on the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32092/05]
The Reception and Integration Agency, RIA, is aware of the plans by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and Kildare County Council to use the entire site at Magee Barracks for affordable housing. The RIA has undertaken that, subject to demand, when the current contract for services at the accommodation centre expires in June 2006, the agency will not include the centre in any future tender competitions.
221 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he envisages the establishment of the joint policing committees as included in the Garda Act 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32093/05]
242 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when local policing boards will be established as promised; and the membership of such boards. [32198/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 221 and 242 together.
The Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides for the establishment of joint policing committees, the function of which is to serve as a forum for consultations, discussions and recommendations on matters affecting the policing of a local authority's administrative area. Section 36 of the Act provides that a local authority and the Garda Commissioner shall arrange for the establishment of a joint policing committee in accordance with guidelines issued under section 35 of the Act. Section 35 provides that guidelines concerning the establishment and maintenance of committees by local authorities and the Commissioner will be issued by me to local authorities and the Commissioner after consulting with my colleagues the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
Work is under way involving my Department, the Garda Síochána, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs on drafting guidelines, which will include provisions on membership of the committees. I expect to be in a position in the near future to announce the issuing of guidelines and the establishment of committees.
222 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the offices of his Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations where each of them are scheduled to relocate to under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32105/05]
Under the Government's decentralisation programme, four sections or agencies under the aegis of my Department will transfer from their current location on the north side of Dublin to provincial locations. The details and timescales in relation to these moves are published in the decentralisation implementation group's progress report to the Minister for Finance dated 30 June 2005. The table below gives details of those sections or agencies, the current locations and their new locations under the decentralisation programme to which at least a part of their operations will be moving. In the case of each of the four organisations a sufficient presence will continue to be maintained in Dublin.
|
Section/Agency |
Current Location |
Decentralised Location |
|
Garda Síochána Headquarters (Part) |
Phoenix Park, Dublin. |
Thurles |
|
Garda Síochána Complaints Board |
Irish Life Centre, Dublin 1. |
* Roscrea |
|
Land Registry (Part) |
Chancery St, Dublin 7. |
Roscommon |
|
Probation and Welfare Service (HQ Staff) |
Smithfield, Dublin 7. |
Navan |
* This body is being subsumed into the new Garda Ombudsman Commission which will continue to maintain a significant presence in Dublin. Circa 20 staff will still be moving to Roscrea to establish a regional headquarters for the Ombudsman Commission.
223 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of child and adult sexual abuse cases recorded in 2004 for children and adults with intellectual disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32115/05]
I regret that it has not been possible in the time available to obtain the information requested by the Deputy. I will be in contact with the Deputy with regard to this matter when it becomes available.
224 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of community gardaí at Coolock, Clontarf, Raheny and Santry Garda stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32116/05]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength for all ranks of the community policing units attached to the stations referred to by the Deputy as at 31 October 2005 was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Station |
Community Gardaí |
|
Clontarf |
6 |
|
Coolock |
8 |
|
Raheny |
5 |
|
Santry |
5 |
Local Garda management report that community gardaí attached to these stations have an excellent rapport with the local community and that the Garda bicycle unit attached to Ballymun and Howth also provides additional personnel to police these areas as and when required. With regard to Garda resources generally, the accelerated recruitment campaign to reach a record force strength of 14,000, in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government, is fully on target. This will lead to a combined strength, of both attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of 2006.
The Garda Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources, and in this context the needs of the areas referred to by the Deputy will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda areas throughout the country.
225 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application for a person (details supplied) will be processed and a visa issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32133/05]
An application for family reunification in respect of the son of the persons in question was received in the visa section of my Department on 28 October 2005. The application will shortly be forwarded to the Refugee Applications Commissioner for investigation as required under section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996.
When the investigation is completed, the commissioner will prepare and forward a report to my Department. Upon receipt of this report, the application will be considered and a decision will issue shortly thereafter.
226 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the residency applications for a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32146/05]
The person concerned, a Nigerian national, and her three children, arrived in the State on 16 May 2002 and applied for asylum. Her claim was refused by the Refugee Applications Commissioner and she was informed of that recommendation on 8 April 2003. The person concerned appealed this recommendation and her appeal was heard on 20 April 2004 by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. The appeal was rejected and she was informed of this decision by letter dated 14 May 2004. This letter also informed her that the decision applied to her dependants included in her appeal.
Subsequently, in accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, the person concerned was informed by letter dated 31 August 2004 that the Minister proposed to make deportation orders in respect of her and her three children. She was, in accordance with the Act, given the options to be exercised within 15 working days of: making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she and her children should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before deportation orders were made; or consenting to the making of deportation orders. Representations have been made to my Department requesting that the person concerned and her three children be allowed to remain in the State. I expect the file to be submitted to me for decision in due course.
227 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the refusal of a visa for a person (details supplied); if he will overrule the decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32147/05]
The visa application in question was received in my Department on 14 June 2005. In assessing any visa application, the visa officer will have regard to information provided with the application and to factors such as the applicant's ties and general circumstances in their country of origin. In assessing this application, the visa officer decided that insufficient evidence of obligations of a social, economic or professional nature was provided and therefore the visa officer could not be satisfied that the applicant would adhere to the conditions of the visa if approved.
There is no record of an appeal having been lodged in this case, and the two month timeframe in which the decision can be appealed has expired. It is open to the applicant to make a fresh application enclosing up to date supporting documentation and the application will of course be considered anew.
228 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the visa application for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32148/05]
The visa application referred to by the Deputy was refused by my Department in November 2004. The visa was sought to enable a non-EEA national join with her spouse, also a non-EEA national employed under the work permit scheme.
When assessing applications of this type, the visa officer will consider, among other factors, whether the level of salary of the worker would come within the ambit of qualifying for payment from public funds. In this regard, the criteria set by the Department of Social and Family Affairs for eligibility for family income supplement payment, FIS, have been used. The criteria, which may change from time to time, are available on that Department's website at www.welfare.ie/ publications/sw22.html.
If the level of the worker's income as evidenced by his or her payslips or P60 would qualify for FIS payments, the application for a visa is generally refused, as happened in this case. An appeal against the refusal of the application was received by my Department in December 2004. However, the visa appeals officer upheld the original decision to refuse the application. It is open to the applicant to make a fresh application. Any such application should include up to date supporting documentation, and this will be considered anew.
229 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the visa application for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32149/05]
The visa application referred to by the Deputy was refused by my Department in January 2005. The visa was sought to enable a non-EEA national join with her spouse, also a non-EEA national employed under the work permit scheme.
When assessing applications of this type, the visa officer will consider, among other factors, whether the level of salary of the worker would come within the ambit of qualifying for payment from public funds. In this regard, the criteria set by the Department of Social and Family Affairs for eligibility for family income supplementpayment, FIS, have been used. The criteria,which may change from time to time, areavailable on that Department's website at www.welfare.ie/publications/sw22.html.
If the level of the worker's income as evidenced by his or her payslips or P60 would qualify for FIS payments, the application for a visa is generally refused, as happened in this case. An appeal against the refusal of the application was received by my Department in February 2005. However, the visa appeals officer upheld the original decision to refuse the application. It is open to the applicant to make a fresh application. Any such application should include up to date supporting documentation, and this will be considered anew.
230 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the financial criteria an applicant must meet in order to avoid their residency resulting in a cost to public resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32150/05]
When assessing applications of this type, the visa officer will consider, among other factors, whether the level of salary of the worker would come within the ambit of qualifying for payment from public funds. In this regard the criteria set by the Department of Social and Family Affairs for eligibility for family income supplement payment, FIS, have been used. The criteria, which may change from time to time, are available on that Department's website at www.welfare.ie/publications/sw22.html.
If the level of the worker's income as evidenced by his or her payslips or P60 would qualify for FIS payments, the application for a visa is generally refused. The visa officer will expect to see sufficient evidence of the financial status of the applicant, in the form of a P60 for the most recent tax year, several payslips, and detailed bank statements covering, at a minimum, a two to three month period. The documentation supplied should demonstrate a consistent financial history and evidence of regular income.
In the case of visa-required family members of non-EEA national workers, the general rule is that after the worker has been in the State for 12 months and has been offered employment for a further 12 months, they may be joined by their families. This is subject to the worker being able to support the family without recourse to public funds.
The procedures for dealing with visa applications from family members of work permit holders who wish to join that worker in the State are currently under consideration as part of ongoing developments within the Irish naturalisation and immigration service.
231 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to increase the number of gardaí stationed at Navan, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32151/05]
232 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to increase the number of gardaí stationed at Kells, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32152/05]
233 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to increase the number of gardaí stationed at Trim, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32153/05]
234 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to increase the number of gardaí stationed at Athboy, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32154/05]
235 Mr. English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to increase the number of gardaí stationed at Enfield, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32155/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 231 to 235, inclusive, together.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of the Louth-Meath division as at 1 November 2005 was 526, all ranks. The personnel strength of the Louth-Meath division as at 31 December 1997 was 498, all ranks. This represents an increase of 28, or 5.6%, in the number of personnel allocated to the Louth-Meath division since 1997.
I am further informed that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda stations at Navan, Kells, Trim, Athboy and Enfield as at 1 November 2005 was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Station |
Strength |
|
Navan |
46 |
|
Kells |
32 |
|
Trim |
23 |
|
Athboy |
6 |
|
Enfield |
13 |
I am also advised that it is the responsibility of the divisional officer to allocate personnel within his or her division. Local Garda management states that it is satisfied that the resources currently allocated to the Garda stations referred to by the Deputy are adequate to meet the policing needs of the areas involved.
In respect of Garda resources generally, the accelerated recruitment campaign to reach a record force strength of 14,000 in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government is fully on target. This will lead to a combined strength, of both attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of 2006.
The Garda Commissioner will draw up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources and in this context, the needs of the Louth-Meath division will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
236 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of applications currently with his Department for right of residence here and his proposals to reduce the current waiting time to process such applications. [32156/05]
I regret that it has not been possible in the time available to compile the statistics requested by the Deputy. The information sought is being compiled at present and I will forward it to the Deputy shortly.
237 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the attention of the Garda was drawn in advance to the plans to assassinate a person (details supplied); if the Garda surveillance was withdrawn shortly before the attack; if this was due to problems of overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32173/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Síochána had no advance notice of this crime and that there had been no Garda surveillance on the person referred to by the Deputy.
238 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will report on the deportation of a person (details supplied) on 28 November 2003 to Bucharest, Romania; if he will investigate the charge that the wrong person was deported; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that it is alleged that while the photograph shown by the Garda was that of the deported person the name referred to by the Garda was different which can be confirmed by his passport and marriage certificate. [32174/05]
The person referred to by the Deputy was a multiple asylum applicant. He applied for asylum in the State on three separate occasions, that is, on 27 October 1999, 25 February 2000 and 4 December 2000. In each case he used different identities. This has only come to light recently as fingerprinting of applicants was not used at the time.
His first two asylum applications were deemed abandoned when he failed to pursue them. A notification under section 3(3)(a) of the Immigration Act 1999 issued to him on both occasions informing him of the decision to refuse him refugee status and setting out the options open to him: to leave the State voluntarily; to consent to the making of a deportation order; or to make written representations within 15 working days setting out reasons as to why he should not be deported.
His two cases were examined further under section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, prohibition of refoulement. Deportation orders were made in respect of him, that is, in respect of the two separate identities used by him, on 13 September 2001 and 19 October 2001 respectively. Notice of these orders were served on him by registered post requiring him to present himself to the Garda National Immigration Bureau, GNIB, for deportation. He failed to present as required and was classified as evading deportation. He was subsequently located by gardaí two years later and was deported on 28 November 2003.
In his third application, the person referred to by the Deputy applied for asylum and subsequently withdrew his application and applied for residency in the State on the basis of his parentage of an Irish born child. On 27 May 2002 he was granted permission to remain in the State for a period of 12 months, contingent on discharging the role of parent including living in the same household as the child and being of good character. This permission was renewed on application by him for a further 12 months to 27 May 2004 when it expired.
It is clear that the person concerned intended to frustrate the system by making three asylum applications under different identities at a time when fingerprinting of applicants was not yet used. The deportation orders in existence in respect of him were valid and were properly acted upon when he was removed from the State.
239 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will institute a large-scale public awareness and education programme on violence against women and carry out training for relevant officials and members of the judiciary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32177/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 517 of Wednesday, 2 November 2005.
240 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a convicted cocaine smuggler, sentenced to ten years in 1999 but having had their sentence reduced on appeal to six years, has been granted refugee status here (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32178/05]
The person concerned, a Jamaican national, entered the State on 10 November 1998. She was subsequently arrested and charged with an offence under the Misuse of Drugs Acts 1997 and 1984. Following a guilty plea, she was convicted and was sentenced on 23 March 1999 to a period of imprisonment of 16 years, six years of which were suspended. On 20 March 2000, the sentence was further reduced to a total of seven years on appeal. This person was released from prison in February 2004 having completed her sentence.
Earlier, in April 2002, it was decided to offer this person an early release from prison for the purpose of her early repatriation to Jamaica. On 24 July 2002, the person was accordingly asked to sign a consent form but she refused. A notification under section 3(4) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, indicating an intention to deport was subsequently served on her but, on 5 September 2002, she made an asylum application while still in Mountjoy prison.
As the Deputy will be aware, under sections 6 and 15 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended, two independent offices exist to consider applications and appeals from applicants for refugee status and to make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted. These two offices are the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner, which considers applications for a declaration as a refugee at first instance, and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, which considers applications for a declaration at appeal stage.
This person's asylum application was initially investigated by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner. This application was refused on 18 March 2003 with the recommendation being communicated to the applicant on 8 April 2003. The applicant appealed this decision to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal on 29 April 2003. On 6 April 2004, the tribunal set aside the earlier Refugee Applications Commissioner's recommendation and instead recommended that the applicant be declared a refugee. This recommendation was reissued to the applicant on 1 June 2004. It should be noted that the member of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal who made the decision to recommend the granting of refugee status in this case was aware of the applicant's drugs conviction in this country and her imprisonment. Indeed, the oral hearing of the appeal was heard in the Mountjoy Prison complex on 20 October 2003.
The issuing of a declaration pursuant to a recommendation of the Refugee Applications Commissioner or the Appeals Tribunal is governed by section 17(1) of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended, which states: "Subject to the subsequent provisions of this section, where a report under section 13 is furnished to the Minister or where the Tribunal sets aside a recommendation of the Commissioner under section 16, the Minister (a) shall, in case the report or, as the case may be, the decision of the Tribunal includes a recommendation that the applicant concerned should be declared to be a refugee, give to the applicant a statement in writing (in this Act referred to as “a declaration”) declaring that the applicant is a refugee”. Accordingly, and in line with section 17(1)(a) of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended, the declaration was granted. This declaration was furnished to the applicant on 14 April 2005. In tandem with that declaration, I instructed that this person’s refugee status be kept under continuous review to see if she should be repatriated and I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that she has not come to the adverse attention of the Garda Síochána since her release from prison.
241 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime figures on a yearly basis for the period 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and to date in 2005 for Clondalkin, Ronanstown, Lucan, Ballyfermot and Rathcoole Garda stations. [32197/05]
In relation to crime figures the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis in order to improve the quality of information available to the public. The Deputy will also wish to be aware that, taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the table below provides the headline offences for Lucan Garda district and Clondalkin Garda district. Ronanstown and Lucan Garda stations are included in Lucan Garda district, and Clondalkin, Ballyfermot and Rathcoole Garda stations are included in Clondalkin Garda district.
|
District: Lucan |
2005* to 31 October 2005 |
2004* |
2003 |
2002 |
2001 |
|||||
|
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
|
|
Homicide |
3 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
2 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
|
Assault |
75 |
27 |
103 |
50 |
130 |
79 |
135 |
87 |
96 |
58 |
|
Sexual Offences |
36 |
9 |
57 |
30 |
26 |
6 |
31 |
20 |
27 |
16 |
|
Arson |
18 |
1 |
32 |
5 |
30 |
1 |
34 |
4 |
29 |
4 |
|
Drugs |
99 |
99 |
91 |
91 |
86 |
86 |
71 |
71 |
72 |
72 |
|
Thefts |
1,028 |
304 |
1,194 |
348 |
1,322 |
385 |
1,358 |
482 |
1,152 |
430 |
|
Burglary |
368 |
23 |
446 |
20 |
562 |
64 |
552 |
95 |
407 |
89 |
|
Robbery |
57 |
17 |
85 |
14 |
74 |
24 |
74 |
16 |
96 |
40 |
|
Fraud |
46 |
16 |
50 |
30 |
39 |
19 |
47 |
28 |
32 |
22 |
|
Other |
50 |
21 |
32 |
12 |
48 |
23 |
31 |
14 |
16 |
11 |
|
Total |
1,780 |
518 |
2,092 |
602 |
2,328 |
689 |
2,334 |
817 |
1,929 |
742 |
* Figures provided are provisional-operational and liable to change.
|
District: Lucan |
2005* to 31 October 2005 |
2004* |
2003 |
2002 |
2001 |
|||||
|
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
|
|
Homicide |
5 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
Assault |
70 |
31 |
94 |
60 |
99 |
56 |
152 |
99 |
128 |
89 |
|
Sexual Offences |
25 |
5 |
29 |
14 |
55 |
40 |
76 |
48 |
32 |
26 |
|
Arson |
25 |
0 |
51 |
4 |
70 |
3 |
44 |
3 |
71 |
7 |
|
Drugs |
75 |
75 |
94 |
94 |
121 |
121 |
135 |
135 |
97 |
97 |
|
Thefts |
901 |
200 |
1,058 |
217 |
1,142 |
326 |
1,240 |
305 |
1,183 |
330 |
|
Burglary |
392 |
51 |
521 |
64 |
680 |
110 |
664 |
126 |
523 |
107 |
|
Robbery |
64 |
12 |
72 |
18 |
109 |
20 |
112 |
41 |
144 |
68 |
|
Fraud |
38 |
18 |
130 |
106 |
74 |
56 |
55 |
22 |
16 |
9 |
|
Other |
35 |
11 |
48 |
27 |
42 |
24 |
50 |
32 |
36 |
19 |
|
Total |
1,630 |
404 |
2,098 |
605 |
2,393 |
757 |
2,530 |
812 |
2,232 |
754 |
* Figures provided are provisional-operational and liable to change.
243 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the training available to members of the Garda Síochána in interviewing children; his views on the Ferns report that the specialist child protection units in Northern Ireland could provide a useful model for implementation in the Republic of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32213/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 512 of 2 November 2005 in this matter.
244 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the areas in which a discrepancy arises on an individual holding in respect of the maps drawn up between 1928-1934 by the Land Registry Office, and rural place maps drawn up in 2000 by OSI; the person responsible for rectifying the matter; the procedure relating to section 49; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32283/05]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that there is no necessary correlation between Land Registry boundaries and ordnance survey detail. Land Registry maps are based on ordnance survey maps. The maps lodged for registration are also based on ordnance survey maps or copy Land Registry maps. They delineate the boundaries of the property to be registered as agreed between the parties. The Land Registry transposes the title boundaries of the property from maps supplied by the applicants for registration to the office maps. The ordnance survey map reflects the physical features at the time that the survey is carried out. Unlike the Land Registry map, the ordnance survey map is not dynamic in nature and does not necessarily show current property boundary detail.
I am further informed that, where part of a property being transferred is outside of the registered boundaries of the property as registered on the Land Registry map, the appropriate mechanism for any changes to the boundaries is to obtain the consent of the affected parties. This is entirely a matter between the relevant parties. I am also informed that information in respect of applications under section 49 of the Registration of Title Act 1964 is available on the Land Registry website. However, it should be noted that this is a detailed and relatively complex area of land law and the circumstances of each case dictate the nature of the particular application. Anyone wishing to make an application should consult a solicitor in order to obtain the necessary legal advice and to prepare the application. The function of the Land Registry is to consider the merits of any application made. As the Land Registry may be required to deal with parties advancing conflicting claims in a section 49 application, it would not be appropriate, nor has the Land Registry any remit, in advising applicants in such cases.
245 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Land Registry Office will issue instrument documents to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [32289/05]
I wish to inform the Deputy that I have requested the Land Registry to contact him directly concerning the current position of the application in question. My understanding is that the position remains as outlined in the Land Registry's response to the Deputy of 25 October 2005.
246 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will consider extending the in camera rule to civil cases arising from rape and certain categories of sexual assault in order to protect the anonymity of a plaintiff who might not otherwise feel capable of giving evidence in open court. [32291/05]
Under the Constitution, justice is required to be administered in public save in such special and limited cases as may be prescribed by law. The law, section 45 of the Courts (Supplemental Provisions) Act 1961, prescribes that justice may be administered otherwise than in public in the case of urgent applications for relief by way of habeas corpus, bail, prohibition or injunction, matrimonial cases, lunacy and minor matters and cases involving the disclosure of a secret manufacturing process. Various other statutes provide for certain civil proceedings or part of them to be heard in camera at the discretion of the court, for example, family law proceedings, proceedings under data protection legislation and certain company law proceedings. I am reviewing operation of the civil law in this area with specific reference to cases arising from rape and serious sexual assault offences.
247 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if residency status will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if he will consider this case on compassionate grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32292/05]
I wish to advise the Deputy that residency was granted to the person in question on 28 September 2005 and a letter notifying the applicant of the decision issued on the same day. Following the receipt of further correspondence, a response was issued to the person in question on 6 October 2005 further clarifying the conditions of the permission granted. The Deputy should note that matters relating to higher education grants are for the Minister for Education and Science to consider.
248 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason there was no follow up to a complaint made to gardaí in Killarney, County Kerry by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 17. [32301/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the person referred to by the Deputy made a complaint to gardaí alleging that she was assaulted in Killarney, County Kerry on 14 June 2004. I am further informed that the complaint was investigated by gardaí and the alleged offender was dealt with under the Garda juvenile diversion programme as he was 17 years of age at the time of the alleged assault. The complainant was advised that the accused was dealt with under this programme.
I understand from the Garda authorities that the policy of the Garda Síochána when dealing with juveniles who offend is to consider the offender for inclusion in the Garda juvenile diversion programme, which provides that, in certain circumstances, a juvenile under 18 years of age who freely accepts responsibility for a criminal incident may be cautioned as an alternative to prosecution. The Children Act 2001 placed this programme on a statutory footing and the relevant sections of the Act were commenced in May 2002.
The programme has proven to be highly successful in diverting young people away from crime by offering guidance and support to juveniles and their families. In more serious cases, juveniles are placed under the supervision of Garda juvenile liaison officers, who are specially trained members of the Garda Síochána responsible for administering the programme at a local level.
249 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received correspondence from a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32305/05]
250 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the case in the matter of the death of a person (details supplied) will be re-opened. [32306/05]
251 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied with the Garda investigation into the death of a person (details supplied) and with the manner in which this investigation was conducted, in particular the investigation into events near the taxi office in the town. [32307/05]
252 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied with the actions of a detective (details supplied) who it has been alleged discouraged some potential witnesses in the matter of the death of a person (details supplied) from making statements and demonstrated reluctance to take a statement from another. [32308/05]
253 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if statements to the effect that a person (details supplied) was being harmed by a number of individuals in a pub or nightclub on the night of their death are present in a Garda station. [32309/05]
254 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied with the report of Dr. Harbison on the death of a person (details supplied) in view of the assertions of two other forensic pathologists brought to their attention. [32310/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 249 to 254, inclusive, together.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that statements in the case referred to by the Deputy were taken from eight witnesses. Only one witness alleged that a verbal altercation took place involving the person concerned. The Garda investigation did not establish any evidence to support this allegation. I am further informed by the Garda authorities that all witnesses were interviewed and invited to make statements. There was no reluctance on the part of gardaí to take any statement relevant to the investigation and no person was discouraged from making a statement.
The then State pathologist, Dr. Harbison, carried out a post mortem examination on the body of the person on 2 February 2002. He concluded that the cause of death was drowning and immersion in fresh water. The Garda investigation file on the case was submitted to the coroner. An inquest was held in April 2004 and the verdict returned was that death was due to drowning by immersion in fresh water. The Garda authorities inform me that correspondence has been received from the person referred to by the Deputy and is currently being examined by them. Correspondence referring to assertions of two forensic pathologists is also beingexamined.
255 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the serious allegations of crimes being committed among legal and banking sectors in Donegal and Derry from a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and the actions he has taken to have the allegations investigated. [32318/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that an investigation file in this matter was referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions who instructed that no criminal proceedings be taken in the matter. As I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, the Director of Public Prosecutions is independent in his functions and it is not open for me to comment or intervene in his decisions in any way.
256 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the interdepartmental review of road safety expenditure; when this review commenced and when it was completed; the recommendations that arose for his Department; and the actions he intends taking to meet implementation of these recommendations. [32347/05]
My Department was represented on a steering committee overseeing a cross-departmental review of road safety expenditure which examined expenditure incurred over the lifetime of the first road safety strategy, from 1998 to 2002. This review sought to evaluate the effectiveness of all public spending on road safety and to establish the impact of road safety performance on other areas such as health and emergency services.
The steering committee was established and chaired by the Department of Transport and consisted of representatives from the Departments of Transport, Health and Children, Finance and the Environment and Heritage and Local Government in addition to my Department. The committee for public management research was also represented in order to examine processes and outcomes of the review for future cross-departmental reviews and to provide general expert assistance. The steering group commenced the review in mid-2003 and the consultants engaged to carry out an analysis of identified expenditure submitted their final report earlier this year. The report was submitted to the committee for public management research for quality assessment before publication.
257 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of interventions in 2004, under the Garda drink-driving enforcement programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32354/05]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that in 2004 a total of 12,307 arrests were recorded for driving while intoxicated. In 2003, 11,344 arrests were made. Therefore in 2004, an increase of 8.5% occurred in the number of arrests for driving while intoxicated.
258 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount which was allocated in 2005 to implementing the national youth work development plan; the amount which has been drawn down and applied to fulfilling the objectives contained in the plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32240/05]
278 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason only a small portion of the funding allocated in budget 2005 for implementing the objectives of year one, 2004, and year two, 2005, of the national youth work development plan has been used in meeting these objectives; the further reason these objectives have yet to be met; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32295/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 258 and 278 together.
The allocation for the youth work sector in 2005 represents an 18% increase in funding over 2004 and brings financial provision for the sector to €33.889 million in 2005. This additional funding allows for a number of developments under the Youth Work Act 2001 and the national youth work development plan and for enhancements to existing youth work programmes and services.
With regard to the national youth work development plan, this plan identifies four main goals and proposes approximately 50 action points to achieve these goals during a five year period. Building on work already undertaken in 2003 and 2004 and following consideration of a submission made to me by the Irish Vocational Education Association, CEOs association and the National Youth Council of Ireland in March of this year, I identified certain action areas for implementation in 2005. These include the establishment of ten new special projects for disadvantaged youth; upgrading of 20 single worker special projects to two worker projects; review of youth work funding; and review of youth information provision and continued support of the child protection training programme. I am fully committed to the implementation of the plan.
259 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science if a classroom assistant or special needs assistant will be appointed to all of the 20 one-teacher schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32069/05]
261 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to appoint a second teacher to each of the 21 one-teacher schools here (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32071/05]
266 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Education and Science if a second adult, to each of the 21 one-teacher schools here will be appointed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32158/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 259, 261 and 266 together.
The mainstream teacher allocation of all primary schools, including one-teacher schools, is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. The staffing schedule is outlined in a circular which is issued annually to all primary schools. In addition, such schools may be eligible for additional teacher or special needs assistant allocations in accordance with the criteria for the allocation of special needs resources. The staffing situation of one-teacher schools is currently being reviewed.
260 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that third level fees in Northern Ireland and the UK will be increased to £3000 sterling per annum; and her plans to alleviate these difficulties (details supplied). [32070/05]
Under my Department's free fees initiative the Exchequer meets the tuition fees of eligible students who attend approved third level courses in the State. No plans exist to extend this initiative to cover third level institutions in Northern Ireland or the UK. My Department's higher education grant scheme and the Vocational Education Committee's scholarship scheme provide that where a candidate is not eligible for free tuition under the free fees initiative and is pursuing an approved course at undergraduate level in an institution listed in the State, the local authority or VEC may award a full or part grant in respect of the candidate's lecture fee, subject to the terms of this scheme. No plans exist to extend the payment of tuition fees under the student support schemes to undergraduate students attending approved courses outside the State. Section 473A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 also provides for tax relief on tuition fees at the standard rate of tax in respect of approved courses at approved colleges of higher education including certain approved undergraduate and postgraduate courses in EU and non-EU member states.
262 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the offices of her Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations where each of them are scheduled to relocate to under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32106/05]
A total of 301.5 whole time equivalent, WTE, Dublin based posts in my Department are scheduled to relocate to Mullingar under the decentralisation programme. The indicative date for the provision of accommodation in Mullingar given in the November 2004 report of the decentralisation implementation group is the second quarter of 2008. The Office of Public Works has been given the task of acquiring sites for the overall decentralisation programme. Achieving the indicative date will depend on the progress made on the remaining stages of site acquisition, planning and construction.
A further 102.5 WTE posts are scheduled to move to Athlone. This planned decentralisation will be undertaken by extending the existing building at Cornamaddy, Athlone. At this early stage, it is not possible to give an exact timetable because issues outside the control of my Department, such as planning permission, must be addressed. However, planning for the move is proceeding on the basis that the accommodation should be ready for occupation by the latter part of 2007. Post-decentralisation my Department will retain two regional offices in Dublin, one in Tallaght and another in Blanchardstown. Those posts in the inspectorate and the national educational psychological service, NEPS, that interact directly with Dublin schools will also continue to be based in Dublin.
263 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason so few special needs assistants are in second level schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32118/05]
As the Deputy is aware enormous progress has been made over the past number of years in increasing the numbers of staff in our schools who are specifically dedicated to supporting the education of children with special educational needs. To date, 1,023 whole time equivalent special needs assistants, SNAs, are in our second level schools. This compares to approximately 292 whole time equivalent SNAs that were in place in the 2001-02 school year. The substantial growth in special education services at second level in recent years reflects the reality that significant numbers of pupils, who had been in receipt of special support in the primary sector from 1999 onwards, are now transferring to the second level system.
SNAs have an important role in supporting pupils with special educational needs in mainstream schools. However, the allocation of SNA support at second level must be balanced against the individual student's need to develop independence and to access education alongside and in the same way as other students. Early intervention at primary level ensures that many children do not need additional SNA support at second level.
Since 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, through its network of locally based special education needs organisers, is responsible for processing any applications for additional special educational needs resources. I am confident that the advent of the NCSE will prove of major benefit in ensuring that all children with special educational needs receive the support they require, when and where they require it.
264 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding improving the class sizes at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32119/05]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by applying the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year to a staffing schedule, agreed between my Department and the education partners. The system for allocating teachers to primary schools is based on ensuring an overall maximum class of 29 in each school. Where some classes in a school have class sizes of greater than 29, it is generally because a decision has been taken at local level to use their teaching resources to have smaller numbers in other classes.
The mainstream staffing of the school referred to by the Deputy, for the 2005-06 school year is a principal and 16 mainstream class teachers based on an enrolment of 456 pupils on 30 September 2004. The school also has two learning support resource teaching posts. To ensure openness and transparency in the system an independent appeal board is now in place to decide on any appeals on mainstream staffing. The criteria under which an appeal can be made are set out in Department Primary Circular 19/02 which is also available on my Department's website.
265 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the schools in Dublin 15 that have the stay safe programme in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32128/05]
The issue of child protection and ensuring that all children in every primary school are aware of child protection issues are high priority areas for my Department. The stay safe programme is a personal safety programme for children. It is designed to give children the knowledge and necessary skills to help them deal with potentially abusive or threatening situations. However, it is also recognised that the programme must cover those individuals closely involved with children on a daily basis, including parents, guardians and teachers. To this end, professional in-service courses for teachers and parent awareness seminars have been put in place at individual school level. This is in addition to the teaching of a personal safety skills programme to pupils.
The training of teachers, parents and boards of management in the stay safe programme and the development of guidelines and procedures for a school policy on child protection is provided by a network of 31 regionally-based teachers who are available to the programme on a part-time basis. This support supplements the assistance provided by the Department of Health and Children which maintains an administrative office for the stay safe programme. An initial one-day in-service training seminar on the stay safe programme has been provided for all primary schools. Since the programme was introduced, 99.7% of primary schools have participated in this training. I understand that 87% of schools in the Dublin 15 area have the stay safe programme in place.
Although it should be noted that the stay safe programme is not mandatory, the teaching of the overall issue of child protection is now an integral element of the subject of social, personal and health education, SPHE, which is part of the primary curriculum taught in every school. The introduction of SPHE as a subject on the revised primary school curriculum combined with the implementation of the national child protection guidelines, children first, gave an additional impetus to the stay safe programme. It is a priority of my Department to ensure that a high level of awareness and necessary skills to address child protection issues, which includes the implementation of the stay safe programme, is maintained in all schools. For this reason, my Department will continue to support the promotion of child protection within the context of the social, personal and health education curriculum.
267 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science when she intends to introduce a meaningful sex, relationship, gender and gender-based violence component into mainstream education programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32179/05]
All recognised primary and post-primary schools are required to offer relationships and sexuality education, RSE. It is an integral part of the social, personal and health education, SPHE, curriculum at primary level and at junior cycle post-primary level. In addition, all schools are required to have an agreed school policy and a suitable relationships and sexuality education programme in place for senior cycle pupils.
Comprehensive guidelines for junior cycle and senior cycle have also been published and distributed to schools by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, to support the RSE aspects of the curriculum. An integrated SPHE programme at senior cycle incorporating RSE is also being developed.
The overall aims of the SPHE curricula are to foster the personal development, health and well-being of students and help them to create supportive relationships and become responsible citizens; and to develop a framework of values, attitudes, understanding and skills that will inform their actions and decision making; and to establish and maintain healthy patterns of behaviour.
The RSE programme at senior cycle deals further with these issues and, in addition, addresses issues such as pregnancy, contraception, sexually transmitted diseases, sexual harassment, sexual assault and accepting sexual orientation.
A national SPHE support service was established in September 2000 and provides a full-time support service in collaboration with the health boards to assist schools to deliver the programme.
SPHE programmes are designed to enable children and young people to develop a framework of values, attitudes, understanding and life skills that will inform their decisions and actions both during their time in school and in their future lives.
268 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science when she will introduce policies for schools on disclosure and appropriate referral where children have experienced violence in the family; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32180/05]
Child protection guidelines for primary and post-primary schools, which were distributed to primary and post-primary schools in 2001 and 2004 respectively, were produced in consultation with the partners in education to meet the needs for schools to have in place clear procedures which teachers and other school staff should follow where they suspect, or are alerted to, possible child abuse.
The guidelines cover four different types of abuse: neglect, emotional abuse, physical abuse and sexual abuse. The guidelines provide management authorities and staff with guidance in relation to recognising the signs and symptoms of child abuse and with procedures for dealing immediately with such concerns.
A central facet of the guidelines is the requirement for each board of management to designate a senior member of staff as the "designated liaison person" for the school. The designated liaison person will act as a liaison for the school in all dealings with the Health Service Executive, the Garda Síochána and other parties, in connection with allegations of and-or concerns about child abuse and as a resource person to staff who may have child protection concerns.
269 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 163, 164 and 166 of 20 October 2005, if she will reply to the questions asked, that is, the number of staff from her Department located at the NEPS office in Mullingar; the grade and responsibility for each of those staff; and if additional staff will be appointed to this office. [32185/05]
There are six staff working in the NEPS office in Mullingar. The grades of the staff are as follows: one regional director; one senior psychologist; three psychologists; and one clerical officer.
Psychologists based in the NEPS office in Mullingar are responsible for providing a service to schools in counties Westmeath, Longford, Laois and Offaly. In addition to the above, there are two further psychologists providing a service to schools in these counties, who are not based in the NEPS office in Mullingar. The clerical officer provides administrative support to psychologists based in the office. My Department has no plans, at present, to appoint additional staff to the NEPS office in Mullingar.
270 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Clondalkin primary and post-primary school who were referred to the National Education Welfare Board for missing more than 20 days of school in the school year 2004-05. [32194/05]
271 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school pupils in Lucan primary and post-primary school which were referred to the National Educational and Welfare Board for missing more than 20 days of school in the school year 2004-05. [32195/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 270 and 271 together.
The Education (Welfare) Act 2000 established the National Educational Welfare Board as the single national body with responsibility for school attendance. The Act provides a comprehensive framework promoting regular school attendance and tackling the problems of absenteeism and early school leaving. The general functions of the board are to ensure that each child attends a recognised school or otherwise receives a certain minimum education.
To discharge its responsibilities, the board is developing a nationwide service that is accessible to schools, parents-guardians and others concerned with the welfare of young people. For this purpose, educational welfare officers, EWOs, have been appointed and deployed throughout the country to provide a welfare-focused service to support regular school attendance and discharge the board's functions locally. The service is developing on a continuing basis.
The total authorised staffing complement of the board is 94 comprising 16 HQ and support staff, five regional managers, 11 senior educational welfare officers and 62 educational welfare officers. Towns which have an educational welfare officer allocated to them include Dundalk, Drogheda, Navan, Athlone, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Bray, Clonmel, Tralee, Ennis, Sligo, Naas, Castlebar, Longford, Tuam, Tullamore, Letterkenny and Portlaoise. In addition, the board will follow up on urgent cases nationally where children are not currently receiving an education. Since September, 2005 every county in Ireland is served by an educational welfare service.
In addition to the NEWB staff there are some 490 staff in education disadvantage programmes whose work involves a school attendance element. My Department is anxious to ensure that the maximum benefit is derived from these substantial personnel resources. Consequently, work is ongoing to develop appropriate protocols for integrated working between the different services involved.
As regards the Deputy's question relating to the number of referrals to the board in respect of pupils enrolled in primary and post-primary schools in the Clondalkin and Lucan areas, resulting from absences of 20 days or more in the school year 2004-05, my Department has requested the National Educational Welfare Board to respond directly to the Deputy on the matter.
272 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to introduce road safety as part of the school curriculum; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32196/05]
At the start of the 2001-02 school year the National Safety Council, with assistance from my Department, distributed copies of Staying Alive — a road safety resource for transition year and the senior cycle — to all second level schools. This pack contained a wide range of learning opportunities and activities on topics such as personal responsibility and decision-making, environmental issues and risks and rules for road users. A CD-ROM with additional material downloaded from the Internet was included in the pack along with copies of the Rules of the Road. In the preparation of the Staying Alive resources material, views were sought from a range of organisations with interests in the promotion of road safety. Prior to its issue to second level schools, the material was piloted in 20 schools and the response from teachers in those schools was very positive.
273 D'fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta an mbeidh sí sásta glacadh le cúntóirí scoile ó scéimeanna fostaíochta pobail, mar a bhíodh go 2002, chun na deacrachtaí atá ag scoileanna aon oide a réiteach. [32202/05]
Níl aon phlean glacadh le cúntóirí ó scéimeanna fostaíochta pobail sna cásanna seo.
274 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the completion date for the new post-primary school currently under construction (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and the details regarding the new construction. [32203/05]
The project to which the Deputy refers is phased. Phase 1, the construction of the new school building, is well under way and is due for completion at the end of the year. Phase 2, the demolition of the existing school building, will be carried out immediately after. Phase 3 will follow and this will consist of the construction of the PE hall and ancillary accommodation, completion of external works and landscaping. It is envisaged that the project will be complete in the second half of 2006.
275 Mr. Nolan asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the unsatisfactory service that Bus Éireann is providing to the children of a school (details supplied) due to the age and mechanical unsuitability of the school bus which is endangering the safety of the children. [32206/05]
Bus Éireann, which operates the school transport service on behalf of my Department, plans bus routes in such a way as to ensure that, as far as possible, eligible pupils have a reasonable standard of service, while at the same time ensuring that school transport vehicles are fully utilised in a safe, efficient and cost-effective manner.
While the bus in question has passed its annual roadworthiness test, it is due for replacement shortly as part of Bus Éireann's ongoing fleet replacement programme.
276 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Education and Science the position on a proposed building project at a school (details supplied) in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32293/05]
My Department is in receipt of an application for an extension at the school to which the Deputy refers. The long-term accommodation needs of the school are under review and further information is awaited from its authority to finalise this matter.
Progress on the proposed works will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards. The school authority has also applied to my Department for additional temporary accommodation. The school planning section of my Department will be in contact with the school authority shortly in relation to this matter.
277 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 312 of 19 October 2005 the reason children on the same route, albeit at a different time of the day, are being dropped off at their homes rather than the drop off point; her views on whether she is unable to approve this service for some children and deny the same service to another child; if this child is being discriminated against by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32294/05]
As outlined to the Deputy in my reply on 19 October, the day-to-day operation of bus routes, including the planning of drop-off and pick-up points, is a matter for Bus Éireann, which organises the school transport scheme on behalf of my Department. Bus routes are determined on the basis of numbers of eligible pupils in particular areas, road networks, distance guidelines and other operational factors.
As a rule primary school transport routes are planned so that, as far as possible, no eligible child will have more than 2.4 kilometres, 1.5 miles, to travel to a pick-up point. Pupils living off the main route of a service are generally expected to make their own way, or to be brought to convenient pick-up points along the main route. Home pick-ups were never envisaged as being part of the school transport scheme as the cost involved on a countrywide level would be prohibitive.
Bus Éireann has confirmed that two afternoon services operate from the school referred to in the details supplied by the Deputy, at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. The later service operates on a different route and entails different drop-off points.
The transport service concerned operates indiscriminately within guidelines under my Department's school transport scheme on a similar basis to other services throughout the country.
279 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if school transport will be reinstated for children attending a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32296/05]
The position has not changed since it was previously outlined to the Deputy in my parliamentary response of 28 September 2005.
There is no record of an application for a transport service to the school referred to in the details supplied by the Deputy having been received in my Department or by Bus Éireann, which organises the school transport scheme on behalf of my Department. In the event that such an application is received in the future, it will be considered under the terms and conditions of my Department's school transport scheme.
280 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the proposed amalgamation of schools (details supplied) in County Galway has not been proceeded with; the stage at which the proposed amalgamation of schools is at; if the entire project will be delayed unless the two proposed schools can be built together; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32299/05]
The schools to which the Deputy refers have agreed to amalgamate into a single boys' and single girls' school. Amalgamation in each case is dependent on the availability of suitable accommodation. In each case a decision has been taken to provide a new school on a new site.
In relation to the girls' school the property management section of the OPW, which acts on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally, is continuing to explore the possibility of acquiring a suitable site for this school.
With regard to the boys' school the position is that the trustee has offered to provide a site to accommodate the new school and communications are ongoing with the trustee in regard to site configuration etc. As soon as the site issues are finalised in each case, the building projects required to deliver the appropriate accommodation will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2005-2009. Ideally, both building projects will be progressed at the same time. However, this is dependent on the outcome of the site acquisition process and whether both projects will be ready to progress through the architectural planning process at the same time.
281 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children in primary education in class sizes under 20, between 25 and 30 and more than 30 in schools in Dublin 9; and if she will provide the same information for children under nine years in Dublin 9. [32302/05]
The Deputy should note that my Department does not hold class size information according to postal districts and that such information is held according to pupils' standards, for example, junior infants to sixth class, rather than according to pupils' ages. Accordingly, the information requested by the Deputy is not readily available in my Department. If the Deputy would like information on class sizes and standards in particular schools, I would be happy to provide it.
282 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the non-payment of a minor works grant to a school (details supplied) in 2004 and 2005 in view of the fact that similar categories of schools received such grants in the past; and if the outstanding applications from the school will be approved. [32303/05]
The school to which the Deputy refers has temporary recognition. Schools with this status are not entitled to capital funding, including minor works grant aid which is paid from my Department's overall capital allocation. I confirm that a payment was previously made to the school in question under the minor works grant scheme. Unfortunately, however, given the status of the school, this was made in error. My Department took steps to rectify the position when the error came to light.
283 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the services of a resource teacher are not being provided for a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32316/05]
The Deputy will be aware that with effect from 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, has assumed responsibility for processing resource applications for children with disabilities who have special educational needs. Under the new arrangements, the council, through the local special educational needs organiser, SENO, processes applications for resources and informs schools of the outcomes.
The NCSE has advised that the pupil in question commenced in a special class in Letterkenny in September 2005 but moved back to the original school recently. The SENO then allocated four resource teaching hours to the school to support the pupil. These hours, together with part-time hours in three other schools in the area, will form a new full-time learning support and resource teaching post. I am happy to inform the Deputy that the base school has been informed that the post is sanctioned and I understand the school is in the process of recruiting a teacher. The pupil will begin to receive additional teaching support as soon as the school has recruited a teacher.
284 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if the maximum support and advice will be given to persons (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [32317/05]
I confirm that my Department has received the application for special educational needs provision referred to by the Deputy. As the Deputy is aware, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, which became operational on 1 January 2005 now processes applications for special educational needs supports. The application in question is being considered by the NCSE, through its network of local special educational needs organisers. When this process has been completed my Department will communicate with the person concerned.
285 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 422 of 11 October 2005, the reason for the delay in the process for selection and nomination of members to a fully representative board of management in a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11; if this process has commenced and the person or persons responsible for commencing same; and will she take steps to ensure no further delay in this process. [32324/05]
With the exception of the Protestant comprehensive schools, agreement has been reached on the legal instruments underpinning the revised arrangements for boards of management of comprehensive schools, and the schools concerned were advised to proceed with the arrangements for the election of the parent and teacher representatives and the formation of the new boards. My Department communicated this to the schools concerned, including the school to which the Deputy refers, at the end of the last school year and has requested an update from each of the schools concerned on how their individual arrangements have progressed. I will formally appoint each board in accordance with the legal instruments when I am notified by the schools of the proposed board membership.
286 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received an application from a school (details supplied) in Dublin 9 for funding for security fencing; if funding will be provided in view of anti-social problems which adjoining neighbours are experiencing. [32325/05]
A report outlining a number of issues, including fencing, has recently been received from the school's design team. The report is being examined by officials of my Department's school building unit which will be in contact with the school authorities once the examination is complete.
287 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to provide proper and adequate accommodation to serve the future needs of a school (details supplied) in County Offaly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32336/05]
Following a fire at the school to which the Deputy refers, the insurance proceeds were used by the management authority for the rental and installation of a significant amount of temporary accommodation, reinstatement works and for the upgrading of external areas. The temporary accommodation in question is of a very high quality and has a long life span. Consequently, the Department purchased it outright. It was made clear to the school's management authority at that time that this accommodation, combined with the reinstatement works, would be expected to meet the schools accommodation needs for the foreseeable future. To assist with the maintenance of the current buildings, my Department has provided almost €210,000 for roof repair works and an upgrade of the schools gas system. In addition, my Department will also be funding certain demolition works for health and safety reasons.
288 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to claims made at the PDFORRA annual conference in Athlone that the Government’s failure to invest in new military aircraft and armoured fighting equipment is having a damaging effect on Defence Forces’ morale; his plans to address same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32083/05]
I do not concur with the views expressed by PDFORRA at its recent annual conference in Athlone on the subject of defence expenditure with particular regard to spending on modern equipment. The position is that there has been an unprecedented level of expenditure on infrastructure and equipment for the Defence Forces in recent years and it is my clear intention to continue with the investment programme for the foreseeable future. I have seen proof positive of this investment in my visits to military barracks around the country. Soldiers are very well equipped with modern equipment to carry out their roles whether at home or overseas. My experience is that the morale of soldiers is generally very high from the equipment and infrastructural perspective and I have some difficulty in understanding where exactly PDFORRA is coming from on this issue.
The increased level of expenditure on equipment for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service 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. Investment in new equipment for the Defence Forces is provided for under various subheads of the defence Vote relating to defensive equipment, mechanical transport, aircraft, ships and naval stores, engineering, communications, information technology equipment, etc. All elements of the Defence Forces, the Army, Air Corps, Naval Service and Reserve Defence Force have benefited from the investment in new equipment.
Over the past six years, more than €200 million has been expended on the purchase of 65 armoured personnel carriers and the Javelin missile system for the Army, new patrol vessels for the Naval Service and new trainer aircraft for the Air Corps. The programme of investment is continuing apace. Last January, I signed contracts for six new helicopters for the Air Corps costing more than €60 million. Planning is well under way on the replacement programme for the next Naval Service ships to reach the end of their economic life and a further 15 armoured personnel carriers will be added to our current fleet. It is expected that the contract for the additional 15 APCs will be signed by the end of the year.
There are also ongoing acquisitions of modern equipment for use by soldiers on operational duties. The individual soldier is now required to carry an array of equipment while engaged on such duties. In that regard, one of the essential ongoing equipment acquisition projects relates to the provision of a modern integrated protection and load carrying system for members of the Defence Forces. This involves, inter alia, the personal protective equipment consisting of body armour and helmet. The aim is to have a new, lighter protective system, consisting of body armour and helmet, which is compatible with all current and future systems required for each soldier. A tender competition is currently in train for the provision of body armour for individual soldiers. It is expected that an order will be placed shortly for 6000 units. In addition, a separate tender competition for helmets is also in train for the acquisition of 12,000 units. Again, it is expected an order will be placed in the near future.
On the clothing front, significant amounts have been spent by my Department on the purchase of uniforms, boots and other clothing worn by members of the Defence Forces, with €3.22 million spent in 2004 and €3.37 million expended to date in 2005. A tender competition for the replacement of the existing FN 9 mm Browning automatic pistol is also in train. It is expected that an order will be placed in the first quarter of 2006.
The equipment issued to the Defence Forces is in keeping with the most modern requirements and the highest international standards. The programmes to which I have referred reflect that massive steps have been taken in recent years to modernise Defence Forces equipment and that substantial efforts are continuing on the equipment front. The continuation of investment in equipment for the Defence Forces remains a top priority for me.
289 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence the amount of expenditure on capital projects in the Curragh Camp, County Kildare since 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32086/05]
In the period from 1997 to date, capital building projects undertaken in the Curragh Camp cost a total of approximately €78 million. A significant number of projects were funded from the barrack re-investment programme which commenced in 1999 to provide the Defence Forces with operational, living and recreational accommodation suitable to the needs of a modern military organisation. The cost of capital projects by year and the major projects costing over €1 million are set out in the following tabular statement, which I propose to circulate with the Official Report.
|
Year |
Expenditure |
|
€ |
|
|
1997 |
862,118 |
|
1998 |
2,225,194 |
|
1999 |
6,134,254 |
|
2000 |
31,030,426 |
|
2001 |
20,525,183 |
|
2002 |
11,903,690 |
|
2003 |
2,811,037 |
|
2004 |
2,476,154 |
|
€ |
|
|
1997 |
Nil |
|
New Armoury 1998 |
1,288,462.50 |
|
Ammo Depot Upgrade 1999 |
5,961,908.65 |
|
New Pool and Gymnasium 2000 |
8,006,065.54 |
|
Clarke Bks. — A and B Blocks |
1,596,773.18 |
|
Stores 1 2 3 and 4 |
6,920,072.53 |
|
New Transport Technical Stores |
2,302,035.14 |
|
Refurbishment Block 3 Connolly and Block 8 Plunkett |
3,706,873.35 |
|
Connolly Bks. Accommodation Upgrade |
3,188,312.31 |
|
Ordnance/ Transport Schools |
3,460,036.26 |
|
New N C O’s Mess East 2001 |
2,666,449.96 |
|
Combat Support College |
6,673,872.62 |
|
N C O’s Mess West |
4,447,733.81 |
|
Vehicle Garaging, |
4,628,978.36 |
|
Refurbishment Kitchen — Officers Mess — Ceannt Bks. |
1,082,000.12 |
|
Combined Vehicle Workshop 2002 |
9,038,649.45 |
|
New Special Storage Building 2003 |
2,114,034.22 |
|
New Workshop and Office Facility 2004 |
1,749,941.55 |
290 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Defence the offices of his Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations to which each of them are scheduled to relocate under the decentralisation programme and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32107/05]
My Department's Dublin offices are located at Infirmary Road and Mobhi Road on the north side of Dublin and both are scheduled to decentralise to Newbridge, County Kildare. While the Office of Public Works has identified a suitable site in Newbridge, negotiations on the acquisition of the site have not yet been completed. For this reason, it is not possible to say precisely when the move will take place. Every effort is being made to expedite the process.
291 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence if he has entered into an agreement with Kildare County Council for the taking in charge of housing developments at St. Barbara’s Park, Melitta Terrace, and Magee Terrace, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32109/05]
As the Deputy is aware, the Government decided on 1 July 2003 that lands at Magee Barracks, Kildare, would be among the State lands released for inclusion in the Sustaining Progress affordable housing initiative. The question of the taking in charge by Kildare County Council of the former married quarters estates at St. Barbara's Park, Melitta Terrace and Magee Terrace, County Kildare will be considered in the context of the transfer of such lands to the council under the initiative.
292 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence if funding has been sought from the Department of Finance to provide a new facility in a town (details supplied) in County Cork. [32217/05]
While there are no current plans for the provision of new RDF premises in the town in question, the matter is being kept under review.
293 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the discussions which have taken place with his EU colleagues regarding PFP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32226/05]
Ireland's participation in Partnership for Peace, PfP, to date is set out in our five individual partnership programmes, copies of which have been lodged in the Oireachtas Library. Ireland's sixth individual partnership programme, covering the period 2006-07, is being completed in consultation with the Departments of Foreign Affairs, the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Justice Equality and Law Reform, Health and Children, and Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and will be lodged in the Oireachtas Library upon completion. Activities consist of training courses, seminars, workshops, conferences, staff exercises and table top exercises.
Defence Forces personnel have participated in a number of staff, technical and crisis management exercises in the context of both the European Union and PfP. In accordance with stated policy, the Defence Forces do not participate in multinational military field exercises. Ireland also participates in the PfP planning and review process, known as PARP. In common with the other EU neutral states, Ireland is using the PARP process in connection with planning for humanitarian and rescue tasks, peacekeeping and crisis management, collectively known as the Petersberg Tasks. The scope of our involvement in PARP is focused on enhancing interoperability and familiarity with operating procedures in a multinational environment.
Participation in Partnership for Peace activities is entirely voluntary and based on the principle of self-differentiation, that is, a State selects for the nature and scope of its participation. It is Government policy to stay in the mainstream of peacekeeping. Ireland's participation in Partnership for Peace enables our peacekeepers to remain abreast of developments in areas such as training, interoperability and humanitarian aspects of peacekeeping. Participation enhances the ability of our peacekeepers to work with those of other countries and enables us to share our peacekeeping skills with a wide range of countries. We want to ensure the Defence Forces have a full voice in preparations for peacekeeping missions and do not want Ireland to be absent when matters in which we have a legitimate interest are being discussed. There have been no discussions with my EU colleagues on Partnership for Peace as it is not an EU initiative.
294 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding future housing prospects for Army overholders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32227/05]
Personnel, on being discharged from the Permanent Defence Force, are obliged to vacate married quarters within a short period of the dates of their discharge. The provision of housing is primarily a matter for the local authorities and married personnel have an equal claim on such housing as other members of the community in the same income category. Fifty-four of those overholding married quarters at the time — 51 at the Curragh, two at McKee Park, Dublin 7, and one at Arbour Hill, Dublin 7 — were written to in August 2002 and requested to vacate the properties. In the Curragh, nine of the quarters have been vacated to date and three others have been purchased by the occupants. A further eight of the properties have been offered for sale and a number of those sales are likely to be finalised in the near future. The three properties in Dublin have also been offered for sale to the occupants. In addition, the sale to the occupants of ten quarters overheld at Cathal Brugha Barracks, Dublin, is under examination.
My Department is continuing to examine all options, including affordable housing and voluntary and co-operative housing schemes, in relation to the rehousing of those overholders who would in the normal way be eligible for local authority housing. The Department remains in contact with the overholders pending resolution of the issue.
295 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which naval and Air Corps strength is adequate to combat drug or people-trafficking activities off the coasts; if coastal surveillance is adequate in all circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32228/05]
The White Paper on Defence of February 2000 sets out a figure of 10,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force, comprising 930 for the Air Corps, 1,144 for the Naval Service and 8,426 for the Army.
The strength of the Permanent Defence Force, comprising the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service, as of 30 September 2005, was as follows.
|
Strength |
|
|
Army |
8,623 |
|
Air Corps |
852 |
|
Naval Service |
1,074 |
I intend to maintain the established Government policy of ongoing recruitment to the Defence Forces. Recruitment into the Permanent Defence Force will continue to maintain the strength at a level required to meet military needs and as set out in the White Paper, that is, 10,500 Permanent Defence Force members, all ranks. The Government remains fully committed to the policy of ongoing recruitment to ensure that an overall PDF strength of 10,500 is maintained.
Responsibility for the prevention of drug-trafficking and other such illegal activities rests primarily with the Garda Síochána and the Revenue Commissioners. The White Paper on Defence provides for a security role for both the Naval Service and the Air Corps to assist and support the civil authorities in that important work. While the main day-to-day role of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union, Government measures to improve law enforcement regarding drugs, including the establishment in 1993 of a joint task force involving the gardaí, the Customs Service and the Naval Service, have helped maximise the effective use of Naval Service resources in combating drug-trafficking. The Air Corps provides air support and on occasion carries the customs national drugs team in an observation capacity for the purpose of monitoring vessels suspected of drug-trafficking or other such illegal activities.
There is close co-operation between the civil authorities and the Naval Service and the Air Corps in this important area. I am satisfied that the extent of Naval Service and Air Corps reconnaissance, in conjunction with the gardaí and the Customs Service, has had a major and beneficial impact in deterring drug-trafficking and other such illegal activities.
296 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number of cash transport escorts provided by the Defence Forces in the past 12 months; the costs involved and the degree to which the Exchequer was reimbursed by the financial institutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32229/05]
An annual contribution of €2.86 million has been paid by the banks to my Department in respect of the provision of cash escorts. That figure was set by the Department of Finance in the 1995 budget and has not been altered since. The contribution from the banks was designed to cover in part the total costs to the State of providing cash escorts. At that time, the contribution covered approximately 72% of the total cost arising to the Defence Forces. The costs are calculated on the following basis. Pay accounts for about 54% of the total costs of providing cash escorts. The non-pay costs include security duty allowance, subsistence, transport and aerial surveillance costs.
The breakdown of those costs, on average is as follows: security duty allowance, 7%; subsistence, 8%; transport, 28%; aerial surveillance, 3%. Based on annual costings by the Department, the relative level of the contribution had fallen in real terms over the years to the situation where it was covering only 43% of the total costs.
As the Deputy may be aware, I had several discussions with the Irish Bankers' Federation, IBF, regarding the matter earlier this year, with a view to increasing the level of contribution by the banks in respect of the costs incurred by the Department in the provision of cash escorts. Following detailed and intensive discussions between officials of the IBF, the member banks and the Department, a detailed formal agreement was signed on 11 May 2005.
This agreement, which is for a five-year period, provides that the banks will pay the total actual costs incurred by the Defence Forces in the provision of cash escorts. Costs in respect of each 12-month period to the end of December will be paid the following year on or before 1 June. That is to allow for the compilation of returns from the brigades and allocation of costs following the year end. The total number of cash escorts provided by the Defence Forces for 2004 was 2,425, and the total cost in that regard was €7.5 million.
The first payment under the new system will be made in June 2006. I have, at the bank's request, agreed to defer the first payment to that date to meet the bank's budgeting and accounting timeframe. In return for my agreement to that deferral, a transitional payment of €1 million, payable before the end of 2005, was negotiated as part of the overall agreement. Therefore, in 2005, the banks will make their annual payment of €2.86 million plus the additional €1 million, making a total contribution of €3.86 million. The costs for the banks in any future year will be determined by the actual costs incurred by the Defence Forces in the provision of the cash escorts in the previous year and thus are not available at this time. The payments by the banks will be made directly to my Department.
We have now agreed a very open and transparent system for agreeing the costs in respect of the Defence Forces, and that should stand the test of time. The agreement resolves the issue of the banks' contribution in respect of cash escort costs for the foreseeable future.
297 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the total receipts to date of all military establishments decommissioned in 1998 to date in 2005; the costs associated with maintenance, security or other requirements in the interim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32230/05]
The Government, on 15 July 1998, approved a programme of evacuation and sale of six barracks considered surplus to military requirements. The barracks in question were located at Ballincollig, Fermoy, Castleblayney, Naas, Kildare and Islandbridge, Dublin.
The sale of approximately 97 acres at Murphy Barracks, Ballincollig was completed in 2003 for a total of €42 million. The bulk of the lands were purchased by O'Flynn Construction. The sale of a site comprising approximately 2.7 acres to the Southern Heath Board for €1.73 million was completed in December last. It was agreed at the time that an area comprising approximately 27 acres at Murphy Barracks should be transferred to Cork County Council for community use, and title to that area is currently being transferred to the council. A half-acre site has been set aside on foot of a request from the Office of Public Works, OPW, for a plot of ground to facilitate extension of the existing Garda station located on Main Street, Ballincollig.
Some 19.218 acres at the former Fitzgerald Camp, Fermoy, were sold to Cork County Council in 2001 for €973,889 for development in conjunction with the IDA. Castleblayney Military Post, County Monaghan, comprising approximately ten acres, was sold to the North Eastern Health Board for €761,843 in 2002. Some seven acres at Devoy Barracks, Naas, County Kildare, were ceded free of charge to Naas Urban District Council, while a further 14 acres were sold to that authority for €8,888,167. The balance of the barracks lands — one acre — was sold to Kildare County Council for €380,921 in 2002. Clancy Barracks, Islandbridge, Dublin, comprising approximately 13.65 acres, was sold to Florence Properties Limited for €25.4 million in 2004.
The Government decided on 1 July 2003 that Magee Barracks, Kildare, would be among the State lands released for inclusion in the Sustaining Progress affordable housing initiative. The intention is that the initiative will be targeted at those who in the past would have expected to purchase a house from their own resources but find that they are unable to do so in the current market. How land at that location might play a role in the delivery of affordable housing units is the subject of ongoing communication with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
The value of sales or disposals completed to date, in respect of the six barracks that were the subject of the July 1998 Government decision, is in the region of €80 million.
The security, maintenance, consultancy and other costs in respect of those barracks identified for closure in 1998 are as follows.
|
Security |
Maintenance and Other Costs |
|
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Murphy Barracks, Ballincollig ** |
€1,120,604 |
€257,113* |
|
Fitzgerald Camp, Fermoy ** |
€330,813 |
€ 42,633 |
|
Castleblayney Military Post ** |
€131,289 |
€10,548 |
|
Devoy Barracks, Naas ** |
€472,654 |
€16,959 |
|
Magee Barracks, Kildare ** |
€123,291 |
€15,677 |
|
Clancy Barracks, Dublin ** |
€649,441 |
€203,089 |
**Now sold or no longer in the administration of my Department so that no further costs will be incurred by the Department of Defence.
* Includes costs relating to the preparation of an integrated area action plan.
Those costs were more than offset by savings on military security duty allowances and utility costs consequent on the closure of the six barracks.
There are no plans to close any further barracks. The Department's property portfolio is, however, kept under continual review, and any properties deemed surplus to military requirements will be disposed of to fund much-needed investment to meet the equipment and infrastructure needs of the Defence Forces.
298 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence if all military quarters are up to international standards; his plans to address outstanding issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32231/05]
The refurbishment of residential accommodation is an integral part of my Department's ongoing building programme. Major contracts to improve the standard of accommodation have been placed over the past few years as part of an ongoing investment programme in the Defence Forces.
For example, in the period from 2003 to date, major accommodation upgrades have taken place in McKee and Cathal Brugha Barracks, Dublin; Coolmoney Camp, Wicklow; Sarsfield Barracks, Limerick; Kickham Barracks, Clonmel; Naval Base, Haulbowline; Casement Aerodrome Baldonnel; Kilworth Camp, Cork; Custume Barracks, Athlone and Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Galway.
Further accommodation upgrades are taking place this year in the Defence Forces training centre in the Curragh; Custume Barracks, Athlone; Finner Camp, Donegal and Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Galway. I hope shortly to announce the signing of a contract for a major accommodation refurbishment project at Custume Barracks, Athlone.
I can assure the Deputy that I am fully committed to the ongoing development of accommodation facilities throughout the Defence Forces. Improvements will continue to be carried out until all accommodation has been modernised.
299 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence his plans to increase the strength of the Army, Naval Service and Air Corps in keeping with likely requirements arising from extended overseas commitments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32232/05]
The White Paper on Defence of February 2000 sets out a figure of 10,500 personnel for the Permanent Defence Force, comprising 930 for the Air Corps, 1,144 for the Naval Service and 8,426 for the Army.
The White Paper provides an overall strength figure of 10,500 for the Permanent Defence Force, all ranks. That figure comprehends provision for the allocation of up to 850 members of the Permanent Defence Force to overseas peace-keeping missions at any given time. The military authorities advise that there are some 730 members of the Permanent Defence Force currently serving overseas on such missions. I am satisfied that the current strength is adequate to meet all needs arising at home and overseas.
I intend to maintain the established Government policy of ongoing recruitment to the Defence Forces. Recruitment into the Permanent Defence Force will continue to maintain the strength at the level set out in the White Paper as required to meet military needs. Recruitment is ongoing to the Reserve Defence Force. The Defence Forces continue to have a proactive approach to recruiting. The strength of the Permanent Defence Force on 30 September 2005 was as follows.
|
Total Officers |
Total NCOs |
Privates |
Overall Total |
|
|
Army |
1,064 |
3,087 |
4,472 |
8,623 |
|
Air Corps |
135 |
397 |
320 |
852 |
|
Naval Service |
154 |
477 |
443 |
1,074 |
300 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the number of members of the Defence Forces who will be equipped with the necessary protective clothing, breathing apparatus or gas masks in the event of chemical attack; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32233/05]
301 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which breathing apparatus or other protection likely to be needed in the event of a gas or chemical attack are available to the Defence Forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32234/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 300 and 301 together.
The Garda Síochána has primary responsibility for law and order, including the protection of the internal security of the State. It continuously monitors the potential threats to the State arising from international terrorism in co-operation with the Defence Forces.
The Defence Forces make contingency plans for a range of scenarios where the security of the State may be at risk. In addition, the Defence Forces have contingency plans in place regarding the provision of aid to the civil power — meaning in practice to assist, when requested, the Garda Síochána — and the provision of assistance to the civil authorities for a range of emergency situations.
The capacity of the Defence Forces to deal with major emergencies is kept under constant review. Plans and procedures are updated as necessary, and such additional equipment as is required to address any perceived deficiencies is acquired on the basis of identified priorities. Training and preparation for such events is also provided for in the Defence Forces annual training plan.
The Defence Forces have available to them equipment for monitoring and protecting their members in dealing with nuclear, biological or chemical, NBC, threats identified from time to time. They hold an extensive range of modern NBC equipment that meets their current requirements. That range includes approximately 7,000 NBC suits, 1,500 of which were delivered in 2004. A further 1,000 NBC suits have been ordered for delivery this year, and a further 1,000 will be delivered in 2006.
In addition, the Defence Forces have a sufficient stock of respirators for each individual soldier. They also have 98 of the most technologically up-to-date chemical agent monitors, and Defence Forces personnel have been trained in their operation. Other equipment to hand includes biological agent detector and screening kits, group decontamination equipment and personal decontamination equipment.
The requirement for additional NBC equipment is kept under continuous review by the Defence Forces. A programme for the purchase of NBC equipment is ongoing, and whatever equipment deemed necessary is purchased expeditiously to meet the changing requirements.
302 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which his Department provides coastal air and sea rescue facilities; if adequate resources and personnel are available from or through his Department for those operations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32235/05]
The Irish Coast Guard has overall responsibility for the provision of maritime search-and-rescue services within the Irish search-and-rescue region. The Air Corps had been providing search-and-rescue, SAR, services in the north west but withdrew in October 2004 following a hand-over of that role to CHCI, a private operator, which also provides the service at the country's other SAR bases at Dublin, Shannon and Waterford.
The Defence Forces are already committed to providing support to the civil authorities specifically regarding search and rescue. In that regard, the Naval Service and the Air Corps will continue to provide support to the Coast Guard as the need arises and within their available capacity. Air Corps pilots will continue to train in search-and-rescue techniques and to provide a limited non-maritime search-and-rescue response. The specification for the new helicopters being acquired for the Air Corps includes a search-and-rescue capability.
Search-and-rescue capability requires a wide range of available skills, piloting, winching, medical, vessel crewing, radar, etc. I am advised by the military authorities that the availability of those skills in the Defence Forces is sufficient to meet their continuing commitments in the area.
303 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent of the training the Defence Forces have received with other European defence forces in preparation for the setting up of EU battle groups or rapid response forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32236/05]
To reach the requisite level of interoperability, and taking account of the short timeframes envisaged for the deployment of the EU's rapid reaction elements, it would seem to me that the various forces and elements comprising a battle group would need to be familiar with the equipment, standard operating procedures, organisation and operations of the group as a whole. However, that does not lead to an inevitable conclusion that there is a requirement to undertake extensive overseas training. Defence Forces personnel have for many years attended workshops, training courses, desktop exercises, seminars and other events overseas as part of their military training, and I expect that they will continue to do so. The Defence Forces have also attended training courses and workshops under PfP PARP, the purpose of which is to learn from best practice in other Defence Forces. It includes improving the level of interoperability between forces in the context of peace support operations and the Petersberg Tasks. Whether possible participation in battle groups would change that situation is one of the issues to be considered by the Government in the context of the report of the interdepartmental group examining the issue of battle groups, which I expect to receive shortly.
305 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of funding allocated to Kildare County Council in 2004 and 2005 for disabled persons’ grants; the amounts drawn down by Kildare County Council in 2004 and to date in 2005; the amount expected to be drawn down in the remainder of 2005; the amount provided by Kildare County Council from its own funds to match funding from his Department in the council’s estimates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32072/05]
Kildare County Council was advised of a combined capital allocation for disabled persons' and essential repairs grants of €1,050,000 in 2004 and €1,500,000 in 2005. Kildare County Council's expenditure in respect of those two grant schemes in 2004 was €1,092,053. Expenditure in 2005 in respect of those two schemes stood at €964,036 at the end of September 2005, according to a return submitted to my Department by the council. The council has indicated to the Department that it expects to spend its full allocation in 2005.
My Department recoups up to two thirds of the expenditure under the disabled person's and essential repairs grants scheme to local authorities. Recoupment to Kildare County Council in respect of disabled person's and essential repairs grants was €1,217,779 in 2004, some of which would relate to grants paid in 2003, and stood at €509,972 on 31 October 2005. It is the responsibility of individual local authorities to fund their one-third contribution from their own resources from amounts provided for that purpose in their annual estimates of expenditure. Based on the combined capital allocation notified to the council, that would imply a contribution from revenue resources from the council of at least €350,000 in 2004 and €500,000 in 2005.
306 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress that has been achieved towards the delivery of affordable housing at Magee Barracks, Kildare in view of the adoption by Kildare County Council of an area action plan for the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32088/05]
Kildare County Council published proposed changes to the draft Magee Barracks local area plan and invited written submissions or observations with respect to the proposed amendments to the draft plan to be made within the period from 29 August 2005 to 10 October 2005. It is understood that the council will consider those submissions or observations at its next meeting on 28 November 2005. Further progress on this project is dependent on the outcome of that meeting.
As with all of the projects under the Sustaining Progress affordable housing initiative, my Department will continue to ensure that this project is progressed as speedily as possible to ensure the earliest possible delivery of affordable housing units.
307 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the offices of his Department which are situated on the north side of Dublin; the locations where each of them is scheduled to relocate to under decentralisation and when; those that are not yet assigned a location; and those that will be retained in their present location. [32108/05]
All Dublin-based operations of my Department are to be decentralised, with the exception of ENFO, the Private Rented Tenancies Board, Met Éireann and a co-ordination section, which it is proposed to retain in Dublin to manage the Department's Dáil and other Dublin business. Staff of my Department are based in various locations in Dublin, including the headquarters of the Department in the Custom House, Irish Life Building and Met Éireann, Glasnevin which are all located on the north side.
The Government's decentralisation programme involves the relocation of my Department's Dublin-based operations to four locations, Wexford, Waterford, New Ross and Kilkenny.
The indicative time scales for the completion of office accommodation in each location are as follows.
|
Location |
Completion Date |
|
Wexford |
Quarter 3, 2007 |
|
Kilkenny |
End 2008 |
|
New Ross |
Early 2009 |
|
Waterford |
Mid 2009 |
308 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress that has been achieved towards the delivery of a new sewerage treatment system for Kildare town; if the envisaged cost for this project has increased; the time scale for completion of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32125/05]
The Kildare town sewerage scheme is approved for construction in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006 at an estimated cost of €21 million. The scheme involves the upgrading of sewers and the construction of a new waste-water treatment plant.
Kildare County Council recently submitted a preliminary report to my Department for the proposed sewer upgrading. To facilitate an overall appraisal of the scheme, the council has been requested also to submit the preliminary report for the waste-water treatment plant and additional information on the sewer proposals. Approval of the preliminary reports will be subject to the outcome of the environmental impact statement for the scheme, which the council submitted to An Bord Pleanála in September last.
309 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has examined the adequacy of noise standards in the building regulations for apartment living; if his attention has been drawn to other countries which operate higher standards or are considering increasing the standard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32162/05]
310 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that if a builder has failed to construct apartments to correct standards in relation to noise and then, after purchase, the case taken by the building control authority will be against the current owner and not the builder, whereas the current owner is actually the victim not the offender. [32163/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 309 and 310 together.
Part E, Sound, of the Building Regulations 1997, and the related technical guidance Document E, 1997 edition, sets out requirements in relation to sound insulation in buildings. Home Bond is carrying out a major study of sound insulation standards in Ireland and other selected EU member states, which is due to be completed by the end of this year. I intend to initiate a review of Part E and the related TGD E in 2006, in the light of the results of the Home Bond study, and in consultation with the building regulations advisory body, BRAB.
The Building Control Act 1990 assigns responsibility for enforcement of the building regulations to the 37 local building control authorities. Authorities are empowered to monitor buildings for compliance with the regulations and to take enforcement action where necessary. Under section 8(3) of the 1990 Act, an enforcement notice may be served on the owner of the building or building works; or any other person who carried out or is carrying out the building works to which the notice applies. It is for the authority to decide upon whom to serve this notice, having regard to all the circumstances of the case. It is advisable for the purchaser of an apartment, prior to purchase, to check that it complies with the building regulations.
311 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the fire regulations and standards for local authority flat complexes are standardised across the country; and, if so, the details of same. [32224/05]
The construction of all new local authority flat complexes and the material alteration of existing complexes are governed by Parts A to M, inclusive, of the national building regulations and the related technical guidance documents published by my Department. Part B and the associated technical guidance documents relate to fire safety.
312 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the concerns around the country that planning objectors are demanding compensation for the withdrawal of objections to planning applications; if the matter will be examined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32270/05]
A planning applicant who is asked for money by any person in return for not objecting to, or withdrawing an objection to, a planning application should immediately report the matter to the Garda and the planning authority. It should be noted that An Bord Pleanála has, under section 138 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, an absolute discretion to dismiss an appeal where, having considered the grounds of appeal, it is of the opinion that it is made with the sole intention of delaying the development or of securing the payment of money, gifts, consideration or other inducement. Accordingly any developer who is asked for money in return for withdrawing an appeal to An Bord Pleanála should also inform the board of this.
313 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he intends to abolish Comhar, the national sustainable development partnership; if not, when he intends to fill the post of chairman, which has been vacant since June 2004; and when new members will be appointed as the term of office of most of the previous members expired in May 2005. [32272/05]
I intend to appoint new council members and a chair for Comhar, the national sustainable development partnership, in the near future.
314 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he intends to contest to the end the case brought before the European Court of Justice against Ireland for requiring a €20 fee for making submissions regarding a development which is covered by the EIA directive. [32273/05]
315 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he intends to take in regard to fees which are being, and which have been, paid to local authorities and An Bord Pleanála for submissions made by the public under the EIA directive if the European Court of Justice rules that such a fee infringes European law. [32274/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 314 and 315 together.
On 17 May 2005, the European Commission initiated proceedings in the European Court of Justice seeking a declaration that the charging of fees for the making of submissions on planning applications and appeals which require an environmental impact assessment is in breach of the Environmental Impact Assessment Directive 85/337/EEC, as amended.
Ireland lodged a full defence to these proceedings on 11 July 2005. As the matter is now with the European Court of Justice for determination, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.
316 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the outstanding complaints of which the European Commission has notified to Ireland for which he has ministerial responsibility, detailing the main causes of the complaint and the stage of same. [32275/05]
The European Commission is currently in correspondence with my Department in respect of 53 cases relating to possible infringements of EU environmental legislation in areas for which my Department has responsibility. These cases are at various stages of proceedings. Under Article 226 of the EU treaty, 21 cases are at letter of formal notice stage and 15 are at reasoned opinion stage; the Commission has indicated that five cases are being referred to the European Court of Justice and four cases are before the court for a hearing. The court has delivered judgments in eight cases under Article 226 and my Department is working to meet the requirements of these; three of these cases are the subject of letters of formal notice and one is the subject of a reasoned opinion under Article 228 of the treaty.
The Community legislation involved in these cases includes directives on environmental impact assessment, habitats, waste, waste water treatment, nitrates, water quality, wild birds, dangerous substances, end of life vehicles, integrated pollution prevention and control, emissions to air, public access to environmental information, environmental noise, and a regulation on ozone depleting substances.
It is part of the role of the Commission to ensure that member states satisfactorily transpose EU legislation into their national laws and implement it effectively. To do this, the Commission raises issues in correspondence with member states, and if agreement is not reached on how to address the issue, may take a case to the European Court of Justice. My Department is in communication with the Commission on a range of issues at any given time and in addition meets regularly with its officials to identify how issues of alleged non-compliance can best be addressed. My Department is working intensively, in conjunction with the local authorities and other relevant agencies, to ensure that all outstanding issues are resolved at the earliest possible date.
317 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the communications he has had with the European Commission in relation to the use of jet skis and quad bikes and so on in areas designated for protection as Natura 2000 sites; and the actions he proposes to take to ensure these activities are fully assessed for their potential impact on the conservation value of the site. [32276/05]
On 11 July 2003, the European Commission issued a reasoned opinion against Ireland as regards Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats of wild flora and fauna, generally known as the habitats directive.
The Commission considered that Irish legislation was inadequate to effectively prohibit and control damaging recreational activities in special areas of conservation, SACs. The Commission was informed informally on 21 April 2004 that regulations were being drafted to amend the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997 in order to address its concerns. Article 3(4) of the European Communities (Natural Habitats) (Amendment) Regulations 2005 now provides appropriate powers to the Garda and to my Department to regulate activities such as quad biking and jet skiing where they are likely to damage a Natura 2000 site.
In addition, the Marine Safety Act 2005, for which my colleague the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources is responsible, provides extensive powers for the control by local authorities, Waterways Ireland and harbour authorities of irresponsible use of jet skis and power-boats so as to protect public safety and the natural heritage. Specific reference is made in that Act to the protection of Natura 2000 sites.
The ongoing monitoring and surveillance of Natura 2000 sites by my Department will, in the normal course, bring to light any pattern of harmful recreational activity in or adjoining such sites so as to enable the appropriate legal steps to be taken, in co-operation, as appropriate, with other statutory authorities, to protect these sites from such activities.
318 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he intends to issue guidelines to local authorities on the issue of development on flood plains in view of recent research and experiences worldwide. [32277/05]
The Planning and Development Act 2000 empowers planning authorities to provide in their development plans that development in areas at risk of flooding may be regulated, restricted or controlled. Where development is proposed in an area at risk of flooding, such risk can be carefully evaluated by the planning authority and planning permission refused, where appropriate, or, if granted, can be made subject to conditions requiring the implementation of measures necessary to alleviate or avoid damage due to flooding.
It is my intention to publish shortly, in draft form for public consultation, guidelines for planning authorities on the preparation of development plans. These guidelines will suggest that in addressing the issue of flooding development plans should identify the main river catchments and coastal areas that experience or are at risk from flooding. Policies should then outline the considerations that will arise in relation to development within such catchments and coastal areas from the point of view of managing existing flood risks or avoiding the generation of new flood risks. The guidelines will suggest that development plan policies dealing with flooding also need to recognise the uncertainties inherent in the prediction of flooding and the fact that flood risk is expected to increase as a result of climate change. Development plan objectives could also include policies indicating that developers will be required to support the funding of flood defences needed for particular developments, either partially or fully, depending on the circumstances involved.
My Department will welcome comments or suggestions on this or any other aspect of the draft guidelines following their publication.
319 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the outstanding documentation required by his Department in order that the payment of a new house grant to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare can be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32279/05]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 210 of 21 October 2004. The position is unchanged.
320 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of women’s refuges which currently exist here; the respective locations of these refuges; his proposals to develop further refuges of this sort; if so, where it is proposed they be established; if funding will be contributed towards such facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32314/05]
The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, through its role as chair of the National Steering Committee on Violence against Women, has overall responsibility for issues relating to violence against women.
Details of the number and location of women's refuges in existence or planned is not available in my Department. As regards the provision of accommodation, capital funding is available through the Department's capital assistance scheme to approved voluntary housing bodies providing accommodation to meet special housing needs such as those of elderly or homeless persons or persons with disabilities and may include accommodation for victims of domestic violence. A separate figure is not available for expenditure on accommodation for victims of domestic violence.
Under section 10 of the Housing Act 1988, the Department can recoup to local authorities 90% of their current expenditure on accommodation related costs arising in respect of homeless persons including, where appropriate, victims of domestic violence. The remaining 10% is provided from the revenue resources of the local authorities. Decisions on funding of such accommodation are matters for the local authority in whose area the accommodation is situated. Associated care costs are the responsibility of the Department of Health and Children.
In 2004 section 10 funding was recouped to local authorities in respect of projects identified as women's refuges in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Athlone, Clonmel, Drogheda, Dundalk, Ennis, Tralee, Sligo, Wexford, Letterkenny, Navan, Kilkenny and Castlebar.
321 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the provisions he has made with regard to supporting the establishment of a women’s refuge in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32315/05]
322 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if funding will be provided for a women’s refuge at a proposed site (details supplied) in County Kildare in view of the significant increase in violence against women in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32320/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 321 and 322 together.
Capital funding is available through my Department's capital assistance scheme to approved voluntary housing bodies to provide accommodation to meet special housing needs, such as elderly, homeless or persons with disabilities and may include accommodation for victims of domestic violence. The Department's involvement with the scheme relates primarily to the provision of funds for individual projects. The administration of the scheme, and the certification that particular projects comply with the terms of the scheme, are the responsibility of the appropriate local authority, in this case Kildare County Council. The Department recoups to the local authorities 90% of their current expenditure on accommodation related costs arising in respect of homeless persons including, where appropriate, victims of domestic violence. The remaining 10% is provided from the revenue resources of the local authorities.
Decisions on both capital and current funding for accommodation for victims of domestic violence are matters for the local authority in whose area the accommodation is situated. Associated care costs are the responsibility of the Department of Health and Children.
In the case of the voluntary body referred to in the question, my Department has granted approved status to the body which, it is understood, proposes to undertake a project to provide accommodation for victims of domestic violence. Kildare County Council is at present considering aspects relating to the eligibility of this particular project for assistance under the scheme, and formal application for funding of the project has not yet been received by my Department from the council.
