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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 8 Nov 2005

Vol. 609 No. 3

Written Answers.

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies received from the Departments. [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 6, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 7 to 106, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 107 to 115, inclusive, answered orally.

School Transport.

Shane McEntee

Question:

116 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the catchment boundaries for school transport services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32723/05]

Liz McManus

Question:

164 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science when school catchment boundaries will be reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32768/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 116 and 164 together.

Catchment boundaries have their origins in the establishment of free post-primary education in the late 1960s and were determined following consultation with local educational interests. For planning purposes the country was divided into geographic districts each with several primary schools feeding into a post-primary centre with one or more post-primary schools. The intention was and continues to be that these defined districts facilitate the orderly planning of school provision and accommodation needs.

I do not propose to have a general countrywide review of catchment boundaries. However, reviews of specific catchment boundaries may be carried out where appropriate. A number of reviews have been carried out over the years where, for example, a new post-primary school is established in an area where previously there was none or, conversely, where a "sole provider" school closes due to declining enrolment.

The area development planning initiative, involving an extensive consultative process carried out by the commission on school accommodation, will also inform future revisions to catchment areas. An area development plan takes account of demographic changes and projects future enrolments for existing schools and new schools if required. Catchment boundary changes will be made where the implementation of the recommendations in an area development plan requires such adjustments.

Catchment boundaries have provided and continue to provide a very useful tool in facilitating the orderly planning of school provision and accommodation needs and the operation of the national school transport service.

School Curriculum.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

117 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on introducing driver education into the post-primary curriculum; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32763/05]

The question of introducing a road safety and driver education syllabus into schools has been examined by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, on foot of a report from a task group set up in 2000 and which included representatives of the Departments of Education and Science and the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, the National Safety Council, the Garda Síochána, the Irish Insurance Federation, the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, Rosary College Crumlin, the CCEA Northern Ireland and the NCCA. The NCCA also commissioned a study on driver education in post-primary schools from Dr. Ray Fuller of Trinity College Dublin.

The NCCA, whose role is to advise the Minister for Education and Science on curriculum and assessment issues, recommended that road safety be addressed within the context of social, personal and health education, SPHE, and that driver education and specifically learning to drive for pupils aged 17 should not become part of the school curriculum. The NCCA noted that this concurred with the practice in other jurisdictions.

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 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.

Youth Services.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

118 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will increase the funding available for youth work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32778/05]

The financial allocation in the main funding line for the youth work sector in 2005 represents an 18% increase in funding over 2004 and brings that financial provision to €33.889 million in 2005. This is clear evidence of the Government's commitment to the youth work sector in Ireland. This additional funding is catering 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 services.

In particular, to date in 2005 I have allocated an additional €2 million for the expansion and development of the special projects for youth scheme. This measure is in line with the recommendations of the national youth development plan. Through this scheme, grant-in-aid of just under €16 million is being made available this year in respect of out-of-school projects for disadvantaged and marginalised young people.

In addition, I have increased funding for the ongoing support and advancement of some 31 national and major regional youth work organisations by 8%, bringing support for these organisations to more than €11 million in 2005. I have also established a fund to develop the capacity of these organisations in preparing themselves organisationally for the further rollout of the Youth Work Act 2001. With regard to youth information provision, support for the national network of youth information centres has also been increased by 8% in 2005.

I am extremely conscious of the worthwhile work being carried out by the youth work sector and acknowledge the valuable contribution it makes to the non-formal education of our young people. I assure the Deputy of my ongoing support for the sector and its work.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

119 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will meet with a person (details supplied) currently on hunger strike outside Dáil Éireann in protest at her refusal to include the Morning Star mother and baby unit as an institution for consideration by the Redress Board. [32746/05]

Phil Hogan

Question:

122 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if additional institutions will be added to the schedule of the Residential Institutions Redress Board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32798/05]

Bernard Allen

Question:

129 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has met with a person (details supplied) with regard to the inclusion of the Morning Star home under the terms of the Residential Institutions Redress Board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32797/05]

Gerard Murphy

Question:

153 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the Morning Star home has not been included under the schedule of the Residential Institutions Redress Board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32796/05]

Paul Connaughton

Question:

198 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science if the Morning Star home will be added to the schedule for the Residential Institutions Redress Board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32813/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 119, 122, 129, 153 and 198 together.

As the Deputy is aware, the Residential Institutions Redress Act provides that the Minister may, by order, include in the Schedule to the Act any industrial school, reformatory school, orphanage, children's home, special school which was established for the purpose of providing education services to children with a physical or intellectual disability or hospital providing medical or psychiatric services to people with a physical or mental disability or mental illness in which children were placed and resident and in respect of which a public body had a regulatory or inspection function.

A total of 128 institutions were originally listed on the Schedule. Since the enactment of the legislation, my Department has been contacted by individuals and-or solicitors in relation to various institutions not specified in the Schedule, including the facility mentioned by the Deputies. Following consideration of the matter and consultation with relevant public bodies, I signed an order on 9 November 2004 which provided for the inclusion of 13 additional institutions in the Schedule. A further order was made on 1 July 2005 adding three institutions to the Schedule.

The Department of Health and Children was consulted by my Department in relation to the Morning Star mother and baby unit and it advised that this was a privately run facility which was not subject to State inspection or regulation. As a consequence it is not possible to give further consideration to the placement of this unit on the Schedule. The question of including additional institutions has now been fully considered by my Department in consultation with relevant Departments and it is not proposed to add any further institutions to the Schedule at this point.

It is important to note that in the Government's initiatives to address past abuse, the needs of those who suffered abuse in institutions not covered by the Act is recognised and provided for and a range of measures has been put in place to assist them. These include the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse and dedicated counselling and other services for victims of abuse.

I have spoken to the person recently mentioned by the Deputies, and explained the situation to her. Officials in the Department have also outlined the position in relation to the Morning Star mother and baby unit to the person concerned on a number of occasions. An official from my Department also met the person on 20 October 2005 and explained that the legislation does not allow me to consider including the unit in the Schedule to the Residential Institutions Redress Act. However, I understand that she was resident as a child in another institution which is included in the Schedule and she has been advised by Department officials that she could explore, in consultation with her legal representative, the possibility of making an application to the redress board based on what happened to her in that institution.

Educational Disadvantage.

Mary Upton

Question:

120 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the timeframe for the allocation of the €40 million to be provided under the DEIS; the amount which will be provided for 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32782/05]

DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, the new action plan for educational inclusion, which I launched last May, aims to ensure that the educational needs of children and young people from disadvantaged communities are prioritised and effectively addressed.

The plan provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated school support programme, SSP, which will bring together and build upon a number of existing interventions for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage. Approximately 600 primary schools and 150 second level schools will be included in the school support programme. The new action plan will be implemented on a phased basis over the next five years, starting during the current school year, and will involve an additional annual investment of €40 million on full implementation. It will also involve the provision of some 300 additional posts across the education system.

Since 1997, the Government has increased funding on specific measures at primary and second level to tackle educational disadvantage by some 130% — from some €50 million in 1998 to about €120 million in the current year. The additional €40 million annual investment under this action plan on full implementation will represent a 33% increase on current expenditure and a three-fold increase in spending in this area since 1998.

Although the action plan is a five-year programme, a significant proportion of the additional supports involved are scheduled to be introduced during 2006 and 2007. The additional expenditure in 2006 will include investment in areas such as targeted reductions in class sizes at primary level, additional guidance counselling provision and increased access to reading and maths initiatives for pupils with literacy difficulties. While this will involve significant expenditure, announcement of the specific amount involved in 2006 will be made in the context of the publication of the Estimates.

The action plan will address all of the following key issues and needs: improving identification of disadvantage — a standardised approach will allow my Department to target resources more effectively; increasing early childhood education provision in the most disadvantaged communities; improving supports for pupils with low attainment levels in literacy and numeracy; enhancing procedures for measuring the outcomes achieved from educational inclusion measures; enhancing integration and partnership working both within the education sector and cross-sectorally; enhancing professional development supports for principals and school staff; and enhancing research and evaluation.

Medical Education.

Liam Twomey

Question:

121 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans for increasing the number of Irish medical graduates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [28900/05]

As the Deputy may be aware, a working group on undergraduate medical education and training recently completed a review of the organisation and delivery of medical training and education in Ireland. I am considering the broad range of recommendations made by the working group in consultation with my colleague, the Tanáiste and Minister for Health and Children. We will bring proposals to Government in the near future on a wide range of issues associated with the delivery of medical education in Ireland, including the so-called cap on numbers in undergraduate medical education.

Question No. 122 answered with QuestionNo. 119.

Special Educational Needs.

Damien English

Question:

123 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether some second level schools appear to be referring a large number of students with special educational needs to other schools in their locality; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32708/05]

Willie Penrose

Question:

127 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if regulations will be introduced to ensure that schools are not permitted to cherry-pick students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32817/05]

Joan Burton

Question:

130 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the action she intends to take to ensure that all post-primary schools welcome and support children with special educational needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32755/05]

Martin Ferris

Question:

165 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science the action she intends to take to end the practice of special needs students being referred on to other schools by certain schools resulting in huge disparities between these schools in the amount of special needs students they must cater for. [32748/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 123, 127, 130 and 165 together.

I am aware that some second level schools do not appear to be doing as much as they could to ensure that students with special needs are as welcome in those schools as students without special needs. I expressed my belief in this regard at the recent annual conference of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals. However, this is a complex area already governed by statute, and I am not sure that it would be amenable to resolution simply by the introduction of regulations.

The Education Act 1998 requires all schools to have in place an admissions policy, detailing admission to and participation by students with disabilities or who have other special educational needs. The Act also requires schools to ensure that as regards that policy the principles of equality and the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents choice are respected.

My Department provides a range of supports to all schools to enable them to welcome students with special educational needs. My Department allocates additional teacher support and special needs assistant support to second level schools and VECs to cater for students with special educational needs. The nature and level of support provided in each case is based on the professionally assessed needs of the individual student. However, this requires a willingness on the part of schools to be proactive in this area and also a willingness on the part of parents to assert their rights more actively in terms of their choice of school.

The level of resources being made available to support students with special educational needs in the second level system has grown significantly in recent years. In the current school year, my Department has allocated approximately 1,614 whole-time equivalent teachers and 1,023 special needs assistants to second level schools to cater for pupils with special educational needs. This represents an increase of approximately 225 teaching posts and 391 special needs assistant posts on the previous school year.

Under section 29 of the Education Act 1998, parents of a student who has been refused enrolment in a school may appeal that decision to the Secretary General of my Department. Such appeals are dealt with within 30 days of their receipt and where an appeal is upheld the Secretary General is empowered to direct the school to enrol the student.

The Deputies will also be aware that with effect from 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, has taken over key functions from my Department in relation to special educational provision. 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.

School Transport.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

124 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date on providing school transport for students living in the Raheen, Mungret and Clarina areas of Limerick who attend a college (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32767/05]

I have considered the case referred to by the Deputy. The key consideration in this matter is that the present arrangement obtaining in this case is contrary to the provisions of the post-primary school transport scheme and is, therefore, being phased out. The Deputy will appreciate that the scheme is intended to be of general application throughout the country and any departure from its provisions damages its integrity. The decision therefore taken earlier this year, to allow the transport arrangement continue for those pupils already availing of the facility, was fair and reasonable.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

125 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of persons who have made compensation applications to the Residential Institutions Redress Board at the latest date for which figures are available; the way in which the number of applications compare with the original estimate made by her Department; the latest estimate of the number of likely applications; the number of awards made to date in 2005; the average amount awarded in each case; the latest estimate available to her Department of the final amount likely to be paid out; the way in which this compares with the original estimate of her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32788/05]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

148 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science her Department’s estimate of the cost of payments of compensation by Residential Institutions Redress Board to persons who suffered institutional abuse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32809/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 125 and 148 together.

The Residential Institutions Redress Board is an independent body established under statute in December 2002 to provide financial redress to persons who, as children, were abused while resident in industrial schools, reformatories or other institutions that were subject to State regulation or inspection.

The most recent figures available to my Department are up to 31 October 2005. At that date, the board had received approximately 9,100 applications and had processed some 4,119 of these at a total cost of approximately €310.5 million. The average award is running at approximately €77,000.

The redress scheme has now been in operation for almost three years and the board will accept applications up to 15 December 2005. Based on the total number of applications the redress board has received to date, and allowing for legal and administration legal costs, it is estimated that the total cost of the scheme may be of the order of €800 million. I should emphasise that this is very much a tentative estimate and may be subject to change in the light of the ongoing administration of the scheme. The final cost of the scheme will not be known until early 2008 when all applications have been processed by the board.

The Department's estimate prior to the establishment of the redress board was that the amount of compensation would be of the order of €500 million, not including legal and administration costs. Including legal and administration costs, the cost of awards under this estimate would be €610 million. While this is lower than the cost now estimated, it was made prior to the commencement of the scheme when there was considerable uncertainty in relation to the number of applications and the average amount that would be awarded by the board. The recent Committee of Public Accounts report acknowledges that the potential liability for redress is dependent on a number of contingencies and future events and that any estimate of the liability is made in circumstances of uncertainty.

The redress board's estimates in its 2003 and 2004 annual reports were also predicated on a lower number of applications than has turned out to be the case. In its 2003 report the board gave a tentative estimate of final applications of between 6,500 and 7,000 applicants. In its annual report for 2004 the board increased its estimate to between 7,500 and 8,000 applications. The board has emphasised that its estimates of the numbers of applications are tentative as there are no precedents for this scheme.

Nonetheless, I strongly believe that the final cost of the redress scheme must be viewed in the context of the Government's concern to provide reasonable compensation towards the hurt and suffering experienced by victims of abuse and the very substantial costs that would have been incurred in any event if no such scheme had been established and if cases had been processed in the normal manner through the courts.

Special Educational Needs.

John Gormley

Question:

126 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Education and Science the percentage of children with special needs attending non-fee paying schools in designated disadvantaged areas compared with those attending non-fee paying schools in other areas on a school basis. [32731/05]

The information requested by the Deputy is being compiled by officials of my Department for the 2004-05 school year and will be forwarded to him as soon as possible.

Question No. 127 answered with QuestionNo. 123.

David Stanton

Question:

128 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the OECD country background report for Ireland, Attracting, Developing and Retaining Effective Teachers, which indicates that Ireland has a problem with the training of classroom teachers and learning support assistants for the needs of pupils disabilities; her further views on whether this contributes to reluctance on the part of some schools to accept special needs students; the action she intends to take to remedy the situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32738/05]

There is no doubt that given the increasing number of children with special needs now availing of the opportunity of a mainstream second level education, there is a need to ensure sufficient training supports are in place to enable teachers to provide them with the best service possible. To this end, my Department has put in place a strategy to meet the needs of teachers working with pupils with special educational needs and to ensure that they get the training and ongoing support and advice that they need.

In terms of initial teacher education and development, pre-service primary teacher training courses in the colleges of education have been updated to ensure that they contain appropriate elements to assist the student teachers in recognising and dealing with children with special educational needs. At post-primary level, the higher diploma in education and education degree programmes include elements on the learning difficulties of pupils as part of a general alertness orientation programme. There has also been a major expansion of the range of postgraduate professional training programmes covering the special education area.

For serving teachers, the provision of in-service training on the area of dealing with special education needs students has been greatly enhanced by the establishment in 2003 and recent expansion of the special education support service, SESS. The SESS is charged with consolidating and co-ordinating in-service provision at local level for personnel working with children with special educational needs.

It also explores various models of in-service and support for teachers in the classroom and is working co-operatively with colleges of education and other agencies to maximise the effects of training and support across the spectrum. Support is also provided to other staff working in schools with special educational needs pupils.

The nature of special education and the changing needs of school personnel working in a variety of settings require the availability of flexible models of provision. The SESS is specifically designed to support teachers and schools in a flexible way to meet their educational and developmental needs, including the provision of e-learning and the existence of a wide geographical spread of trainers who work on a full-time and, especially, part-time basis. The training available to schools involves direct support to individual teachers, groups of teachers or whole school staffs; the provision of expertise on particular aspects of special needs; accessing appropriate training on request; and empowering schools to identify their own training needs and to provide ongoing support.

With these measures now in place, many of the recommendations in the OECD report, Teachers Matter, in relation to the area of special needs education are actually being met at this point.

I am satisfied that with the major improvements that I have just outlined, there is now a comprehensive system of training and other supports in place to ensure that the extra teachers that we have put into schools to assist children with special needs are getting the help they need to give each child the best service possible.

Question No. 129 answered with QuestionNo. 119.
Question No. 130 answered with QuestionNo. 123.

School Evaluation.

Phil Hogan

Question:

131 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position with regard to the release of information regarding the way in which schools operate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32694/05]

I have decided to provide more information, for parents in particular, about our schools in a way that ensures a fair and comprehensive picture of all the different activities in a school.

As I have said on many occasions, I am strongly opposed to the publication of crude league tables based solely on examination or test results. Such tables provide an unbalanced and grossly limited indication of a school's performance.

In contrast to school league tables, I believe that school inspection reports from whole school evaluations, WSE, and other inspections can provide balanced and well informed information on schools. The whole school evaluation process involves not only a full examination of all the varied activities of a school — from teaching standards to the availability of extra-curricular activities, the ethos of the school and the implementation of policies in areas such as bullying and health and safety — but consultation with parents, staff members and students.

These inspection reports can therefore provide valuable information on the educational and social opportunities provided by a school. The comments that they contain are also fully sensitive to the context in which the school operates in a way which is not possible with league tables.

Given the breadth of the contents of whole school evaluation reports, I believe that the publication of these and other school inspection reports could go a significant way to addressing the real needs of parents, students, teachers and others for better information on schools. The type of information provided in WSE reports will help parents who need accurate and balanced information. WSE reports also contain valuable information that will be of interest to schools who may wish to learn from the experience of others.

I am determined to progress this matter in a sensible and responsible way and to ensure that the views of all the education partners are considered before the publication process is finalised. During the summer I put in place a mechanism whereby this can take place. The inspectorate of my Department has held 20 meetings with interested parties in late September and has issued draft guidelines for the publication of inspection reports to the education partners about three weeks ago. Responses to the draft guidelines are expected in mid-November and a final draft of the proposals will be submitted to me in December.

I intend that the publication of school inspection reports will commence from January 2006 for all inspections carried out from the start of the calendar year 2006.

I am confident that the considered and responsible approach that we are taking to the publication of inspection reports will lead to much greater availability of information on schools without inadvertently pitting schools serving entirely different communities against each other in crude comparisons of academic performance alone. I believe that this process will also encourage schools to provide extra information of value to parents.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

132 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has identified the extent to which a reduction in the pupil-teacher ratio at primary level can benefit the future education and employment prospects of a child; if sufficient study has been undertaken with a view to identifying such benefits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32790/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

677 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has studied the results of high pupil-teacher ratios and the likely damage to the pupil in terms of access to further education and employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33201/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 132 and 677 together.

The Government commitment to reduce class size in junior classes clearly accepts the benefits of class size reductions for younger pupils. The international research shows that reduced class size can produce improved attainment in particular for minority-disadvantaged groups. It also shows that the reduction in class size must be accompanied by a change in teaching style to achieve the benefits and there are indications that variations in teacher quality are particularly important for student achievement.

Major improvements in school staffing have been made in recent years with the hiring of more than 4,500 additional teachers. This represents the largest increase in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education. The annual estimated value of the additional expenditure on these posts is more than €200 million.

In 1996-97, the average class size in our primary schools was 27. It is now 24. In 1996-97, there was one teacher for every 22 children in our primary schools. Today there is one teacher for every 17 children, the lowest pupil-teacher ratio in the history of the State. Aside from decreasing average class size, the unprecedented increase in school staffing in recent years has also greatly improved the services provided for children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas. While there is more to be done to reduce class sizes further, it should be acknowledged how much progress has been made in this area in recent years.

While the average class size nationally has been brought down to 24, I am committed, in line with Government policy, to delivering further reductions in class sizes for children under nine years of age. In achieving the Government target in relation to smaller class sizes, priority has, in the first instance, to be given to children with special needs and those in disadvantaged areas.

Under the new action plan for tackling education disadvantage which I launched last May, more children in disadvantaged schools will be in classes of 20 in the current school year.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

133 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to allow mother and baby homes to be covered by the redress board; if there are alternative investigations that could be set up; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32725/05]

Trevor Sargent

Question:

569 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to allow mother and baby homes to be covered by the redress board; if there are alternative investigations that could be set up; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33078/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 133 and 569 together.

The Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002 provides a statutory scheme of financial redress for persons who, as children, were abused while in residential institutional care. The scheme applies in respect of institutions specified in the Schedule to the Act. Section 4 of the Act provides that the Minister for Education and Science may, by order, provide for the insertion in the Schedule of any industrial school, reformatory school, orphanage, children's home, special school which was established for the purpose of providing education services to children with a physical or intellectual disability or a hospital providing medical or psychiatric services to people with a physical or mental disability or mental illness, in which children were placed and resident and in respect of which a public body had a regulatory or inspection function.

A total of 128 institutions were originally listed on the Schedule. Since the enactment of the legislation, my Department has been contacted by individuals and-or solicitors in relation to various institutions not specified in the Schedule, including mother and baby homes. Following consideration of the matter and consultation with relevant public bodies, I signed an order on 9 November 2004 which provided for the inclusion of 13 additional institutions in the Schedule. A further order was made on 1 July 2005 adding three institutions to the Schedule.

The Department of Health and Children has advised my Department that many of the institutions submitted for consideration, including mother and baby homes, were privately operated establishments which were not subject to State inspection or regulation and could not therefore be included in the Schedule.

The question of including additional institutions has now been fully considered by my Department in consultation with relevant Departments and it is not proposed to add any further institutions to the Schedule at this point. The issue of any alternative investigations in relation to these homes would be a matter for the Minister for Health and Children.

Teaching Qualifications.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

134 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will reform the entry requirements for teacher training in order that Irish is brought into line with English and mathematics; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32703/05]

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

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

135 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers in second level schools in counties Cavan and Monaghan who must to teach more than 30 children in individual classrooms; if she is satisfied that teachers can deal with more than 30 adolescent children in one class; the steps she has taken to rectify the situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32539/05]

Teacher allocations for second level schools are approved by my Department on an annual basis in accordance with generally applied rules relating to recognised pupil enrolment. In general a ratio of 18:1 is applied in respect of recognised pupils on established junior certificate, leaving certificate, repeat leaving certificate and transition year programmes and a ratio of 16:1 is applied in respect of recognised pupils on the leaving certificate vocational programme, post-leaving certificate courses and leaving certificate applied. Each school management authority is required to organise its curriculum, teaching timetable and subject options having regard to pupils' needs within the limits of its approved teacher allocation.

Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio at post-primary level in recent years. The ratio has fallen from 16:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 13.4:1 in the 2004-05 school year. The rules for allocating teaching posts provide that where a school management authority is unable to meet essential curricular commitments, my Department will consider applications for additional short-term support. An independent appeals committee is available to school authorities which wish to appeal the adequacy of their teacher allocation.

School Staffing.

Seán Crowe

Question:

136 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science when she intends to provide a second adult to the 20 one-teacher schools currently in operation here. [32745/05]

Brendan Howlin

Question:

139 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the health and safety concerns expressed by the one-teacher support group; if she will address their concerns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32764/05]

Marian Harkin

Question:

566 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to deal with safety issues in one-teacher schools (details supplied). [33381/05]

Paudge Connolly

Question:

610 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the appointment of a classroom assistant to the 20 remaining one-teacher schools throughout the country from a health and safety perspective to provide for various emergency contingencies which arise daily; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32645/05]

Joe Costello

Question:

619 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there are 20 one-teacher schools here at present; if her attention has further been drawn to the recent establishment of the one-teacher school support council to campaign on their behalf; if a classroom assistant or a special needs assistant will be appointed to each of the one-teacher schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32812/05]

Joe Higgins

Question:

626 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if each of the 20 one-teacher schools here will be authorised to employ another adult to guarantee the health and safety of the pupils in these schools. [32883/05]

Dinny McGinley

Question:

635 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the establishment of an organisation (details supplied); and her plans to alleviate the difficulties being encountered by teachers and pupils in such schools. [33096/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

703 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if provision can or will be made for an extra teacher or classroom assistant for all one-teacher schools here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33231/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 136, 139, 566, 610, 619, 626, 635 and 703 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 being reviewed.

Educational Disadvantage.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

137 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science the extra funding she will provide under the DEIS proposals to the schoolbooks for needy pupils grant scheme; when extra funds will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32802/05]

The new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, aims to ensure that the educational needs of children and young people from disadvantaged communities are prioritised and effectively addressed. The plan provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated school support programme, SSP, which will bring together and build upon, a number of existing interventions for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage. Approximately 600 primary schools, comprising 300 urban-town and 300 rural and 150 second level schools, will be included in the school support programme. The new action plan will be introduced on a phased basis — starting in the current school year — and will involve an additional annual investment of €40 million on full implementation. It will also involve the provision of 300 additional posts across the education system.

The primary and second level school books grant schemes will continue to operate as before. However, the results of the identification process outlined above will be taken into account in allocating resources under the schemes. Targeted additional funding will also be made available through the schemes, on a phased basis, to schools participating in the SSP. This additional funding will be aimed primarily at supporting the establishment, development and continuing operation of book loan-rental schemes. The specific amount involved in 2006 will be finalised in the context of the Estimates process.

Bullying in Schools.

Paul McGrath

Question:

138 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps being undertaken to address the incidence of bullying at primary and secondary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32720/05]

The education of students in both primary and post-primary schools in relation to anti-bullying behaviour is a central part of the social, personal and health education, SPHE, curriculum. SPHE is now a compulsory subject both at primary level and in the junior cycle of post-primary schools. The SPHE curriculum provides for the development of personal and social skills including self-awareness, respect for others, self-esteem and communication skills, all of which are important elements in addressing the issue of bullying. In primary education, the issue of bullying is addressed in the SPHE curriculum in the strand, Myself and Others, from infant classes onwards. In second level education, the issue of bullying is addressed from first year onwards in the SPHE curriculum at junior cycle, in the module, Belonging and Integrating.

My Department, in its guidelines on countering bullying behaviour in schools, has provided a national framework within which individual school management authorities may meet their responsibilities for implementing effective school-based policies to counter bullying. These guidelines were drawn up following consultation with representatives of school management, teachers and parents and are sufficiently flexible to allow each school authority to adapt them to suit the particular needs of the school.

Each school is required to have in place a policy which includes specific measures to deal with bullying behaviour within the framework of an overall school code of behaviour and discipline. Such a code, properly devised and implemented, can be the most influential measure in countering bullying behaviour in schools.

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

Question No. 139 answered with QuestionNo. 136.

Literacy Levels.

Jack Wall

Question:

140 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if the improved support for pupils with low attainment levels of literacy and numeracy planned for the DEIS action plan will be provided in 2006; if they will be linked to standardised testing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32785/05]

The new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, aims to ensure that the educational needs of children and young people from disadvantaged communities are prioritised and effectively addressed. The plan provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated school support programme, SSP, which will bring together and build upon, a number of existing interventions for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage. Approximately 600 primary schools, comprising 300 urban-town and 300 rural and 150 second level schools, will be included in the school support programme. The new action plan will be introduced on a phased basis, starting in the current school year, and will involve an additional annual investment of €40 million on full implementation. It will also involve the provision of some 300 additional posts across the education system.

A key underlying principle of DEIS is that of early intervention, including assisting children who are having difficulty learning to read and write at an early stage before the problem becomes entrenched. In implementing the action plan a number of measures will be rolled out, on a phased basis, to tackle literacy and numeracy problems in schools serving disadvantaged communities. These measures will include a new advisory service at primary level; more access to initiatives such as reading recovery and maths recovery which enable intensive, individualised teaching to be provided to the lowest attaining pupils at an early stage when intervention can be most effective; targeted extension of the successful demonstration library project at second level in respect of which 40 more schools will benefit on a phased basis; and a new family literacy project.

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, has recommended that all pupils should be tested in literacy and numeracy at the end of first or beginning of second class and at the end of fourth or beginning of fifth class and that this should be implemented as soon as it is feasible to do so. My Department is exploring potential implementation models, in advance of entering into discussions with the education partners in the matter. I believe that the introduction of standardised testing on a systematic basis has significant potential to improve the quality of teaching and learning in our schools.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

141 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the activity taking place in each of the properties transferred here under the indemnity agreement with religious congregations; if any of these properties are not currently in use; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32800/05]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

189 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the money and properties that have been transferred under the indemnity agreement with religious congregations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32799/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 141 and 189 together.

Under the terms of the indemnity agreement reached with the religious congregations, the property contribution of the congregations is divided into two separate and distinct schedules of properties as follows. The first schedule of properties is properties to be transferred from the congregations to the State, State agencies or local authorities after the date of the signing of the indemnity agreement on 5 June 2002. The total value of these property transfers for the purposes of the indemnity agreement was set at €36.54 million. I can confirm that agreement in principle has been reached with the religious congregations on the transfer of 35 properties under this schedule to the amount of €38.24 million. This figure of €38.24 million includes €4.98 million in cash that was provided by the congregations in lieu of property.

The second schedule of properties is properties transferring from the congregations to the State, State agencies, local authorities or voluntary organisations from 11 May 1999, the date of the Taoiseach's apology to victims of child abuse. The total value of these property transfers for the purposes of the indemnity agreement was set at €40.32 million. I can confirm that transfers of 29 properties to the value of approximately €36.21 million have been agreed in principle under this schedule. This includes a cash payment of €3.25 million made by the congregations in lieu of property.

Taking account the oversubscription on schedule A, the net outstanding balance under the agreement is approximately €2.4 million and this is currently under discussion with the religious congregations. The properties set out on the following lists "A" and "B" were accepted in principle by the Department following receipt of confirmation from relevant Departments and State agencies that it would be to their advantage to accept title to the particular property. The current or future use of these properties is a matter for each of the transferees.

List A

Properties accepted under terms of Redress Scheme

Address of Property (35)

Transferee

Primary School, Waterpark, Newtown Rd, Waterford

Department of Education & Science

Primary School, St. John’s Rd, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford

Department of Education & Science

Lands at Mullaghmonaghan, Co. Monagahan

Department of Education & Science

Site at Virginia Rd, Kells, Co. Meath

Department of Education & Science

Secondary School, Mounthawke, Tralee, Co. Kerry.

Department of Education & Science

Site, Doon, Co Limerick.

Department of Education & Science

3 acre site at Merrion

Dublin City Council

The Vineyard Child Centre, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow

Eastern Regional Health Authority

Vacant Buildings and land at Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow

Eastern Regional Health Authority

Goldenbridge Group Homes

Eastern Regional Health Authority

1, Garravogue Road, Raheen, Co. Limerick

Mid-Western Health Board

6, Mount Vincent Terrace, O’Connell Ave, Limerick

Mid-Western Health Board

23, Parnell Square (Coláiste Mhuire)

Office of Public Works

Coiscéim, Cappoquin, Co.Waterford

South Eastern Health Board

Emohruo, Cappoquin, Co. Waterford

South Eastern Health Board

Avondale, Smithland North, Kilkenny

South Eastern Health Board

Deenagh House, Killarney, Co. Kerry

Southern Health Board

Airne Villa, Rock Rd, Killarney, Co. Kerry.

Southern Health Board

23, Woodlee, Tralee, Co.Kerry

Southern Health Board

24, Westcourt, Tralee, Co.Kerry

Southern Health Board

15, The Willows, Mallow, Co.Cork

Southern Health Board

St. Coleman’s, Rushbrooke, Cork

Southern Health Board

Mount St. Joseph, Passage West, Cork

Southern Health Board

Land and buildings at Lota, Glanmire Co. Cork

Southern Health Board

St. Patrick’s Upton, Cork

Southern Health Board

Respite Centre, Garretstown. Cork

Southern Health Board

Former Old Schoolhouse, Garretstown, Co.Cork

Southern Health Board

Site at Cloughmacsimon, Bandon, Co. Cork

Southern Health Board

5, Avondale Drive, Bandon. Co.Cork.

Southern Health Board

Kildron, Roundhill, Old Chapel, Bandon, Co.Cork

Southern Health Board

Gentili, Farahoe, Innishannon, Co.Cork.

Southern Health Board

Benvon, 5, Bishopstown Road, Bishopstown, Co.Cork.

Southern Health Board

Roseboro, 2, Firgrove Gardens, Bishopstown, Co. Cork.

Southern Health Board

10, The Priory, Old Chapel, Bandon, Co. Cork

Southern Health Board

4, the Hawthorns, Macroom Road, Bandon, Co.Cork.

Southern Health Board

List B

Properties accepted under terms of Redress Scheme

Address of Property (27)

Transferee

St. Teresa Temple Hill, Blackrock

Alzheimers Society

Creche/childcare at Ballymote, Sligo

Ballymote Childcare Association

Two properties at Tuam

Clúil & G.A.M.H.C.

Holy Cross Gardens, Killarney

Clúil Housing

Playing field at Carna. Co. Galway

Dept of Education & Science

Presentation Sec. School Building, Hospital, Limerick

Dept of Education & Science

Moate National School, Co. Westmeath

Dept of Education & Science

Sec. School & site at Ennistymon, Co. Clare

Dept of Education & Science

Site at Mohill, Co. Leitrim

Dept of Education & Science

Sen. & Jnr. Schools, Portlaoise

Dept of Education & Science

Terenure Secondary School Building

Dept of Education & Science

Site & School at Glenamaddy

Dept of Education & Science

Convent at Barrack Hill,Newport, Co. Mayo

Dominic Housing Association

Site at Dolphin Pk, Crumlin, Dublin 6

Dublin City Council

Gate Lodge at Goldenbridge, Inchicore, Dublin 8

Dublin City Council

Site at Dunardagh, Blackrock

Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Co.Co.

28, The Woodlands, Celbridge, Co. Kildare

Eastern Regional Health Authority

2, Moyle Crescent, Clondalkin, Dublin 22

Eastern Regional Health Authority

Presentation Convent, Hospital, Limerick

Hospital Vol. Housing Ass.

Convent land at Barrack St, Limerick

Irish Wheelchair Assoc.

Housing & Services at Belmullet, Co. Mayo

Irish Wheelchair Assoc.

59, Hollybank Rd, Drumcondra, Dublin 9

PACE

Cork Street, Dublin 8 (SOPHIA Housing)

Sophia Housing

Sacred Heart Centre, Waterford

South Eastern Health Board

St. Anne’s Sec. School, Milltown, Dublin 6

St. Vincent de Paul

Site at Long Mile Rd, Walkinstown, Dublin

Walkinstown Association

School at Ballina, Co. Mayo

Western Care Association

School & Site at Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford

Department of Education & Science

Nursery Building at Goldenbridge, Dublin 8

Health Service Executive

Teaching Profession.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

142 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the initiatives being taken by her to encourage a greater number of males to enter teaching; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32699/05]

I am aware of the decreasing numbers of males entering the teaching profession, and it is an issue that is of concern to me. I believe that it is important to attract more men into teaching for a number of reasons, not least of which is the positive role models that teachers provide in children's lives and the desirability of having both male and female role models in our schools.

I genuinely believe that teaching should be seen as an attractive profession for both men and women. Teaching is fulfilling work which makes a huge social contribution. With the increases in teachers' salaries under partnership agreements and benchmarking in recent years, it is also now a well-paid job.

This Government wants to attract and reward the best teachers. In addition to increasing teachers' salaries, we have also undertaken other initiatives to enhance the status of the profession. Not least of these is the establishment of the Teaching Council as a professional regulatory body.

I have also now received the report of the primary education committee, Males into Primary Teaching. The primary education committee was established to examine a range of issues in relation to males entering primary teaching and to make recommendations on short-term and long-term strategies to increase the numbers in this regard. The report draws on the professional insight of key experts in this area as well as drawing on a number of relevant research studies. The report's findings will be of significant benefit in assisting the development of future policy in this important area.

One of the key recommendations in the committee's report is that a co-ordinated promotion campaign, which would encourage boys as well as girls to enter primary teaching, should be undertaken. Officials in my Department are examining how such a promotion campaign can be run to maximum effect. All other recommendations contained in the report are also receiving active consideration

Special Educational Needs.

Joe Costello

Question:

143 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science the state of progress of the Middletown centre of excellence for autism; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32757/05]

My Department and the Department of Education in Northern Ireland are jointly engaged in the development of the Middletown centre for autism in County Armagh. Both Departments have jointly funded the purchase of the former St. Joseph's Adolescent Centre, Middletown, and plan to refurbish the property with a view to developing a centre of excellence for children and young people with autism throughout the island of Ireland. The centre will be dedicated to improving and enriching the educational opportunities of children and young people with autistic spectrum disorders. Four key services will be provided by the centre, including a learning support service on a residential basis; an educational assessment service; a training and advisory service; and an autism research and information service.

A number of working groups are continuing to address the legal, financial, organisational and infrastructural aspects of the proposal. For example, work is continuing on the development of a campus masterplan for the Middletown property which, when complete, will guide the commissioning of any necessary infrastructure and refurbishment works. Officials from both Departments are working closely on this project and this interaction between the two Departments will continue over the coming months with a view to ensuring that the centre becomes operational as quickly as possible.

School Curriculum.

Dan Boyle

Question:

144 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Education and Science if any reviews have been carried out of transition year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32727/05]

The transition year programme is a one-year optional programme, taken by some 24,000 students annually, which provides a bridge between junior and senior cycle. Its aim is to promote the personal, social, educational and vocational development of students and prepare them for their role as participative and responsible members of society.

The curriculum for the transition year is devised by the individual school, having regard to the guidelines issued by my Department which set the broad parameters within which transition year programmes should operate. The guidelines allow individual schools scope to create a programme of learning experiences that matches the needs of their particular student cohort and that takes account of the resources and opportunities available in the schools and their local community.

An evaluation of the transition year programme in 146 schools was carried out by the inspectorate of my Department in 1996 and the findings were largely positive. My Department has followed through on the recommendations issued to schools during this evaluation in a variety of ways, for example, the transition year curriculum support service has intensified its support in areas identified as needing improvement, and circular letter M1/00 was issued to clarify requirements for schools implementing the transition year programme. Schools were also provided with additional guidelines on writing their transition year programme.

More recently, the Economic and Social Research Institute, ESRI, conducted a study of the transition year programme in schools. This study was funded by my Department and the report was published in January 2005. Based on data gathered from 468 principals, 4,444 students in 108 schools and six case studies, this study provides a comprehensive examination of all aspects of the operation of transition year and of its effect on student outcomes in a range of school contexts. It confirms that the programme has huge potential to develop students' broader life skills and confidence and that it can contribute significantly to building positive student-teacher relationships. The report points to better academic outcomes and increased rates of progression to higher education among transition year students. It identifies making the programme more attractive to disadvantaged schools as a clear challenge for the future. In my response to the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, on its advice around senior cycle reform, I have requested that the needs of students in these schools be particularly addressed as the proposed curriculum components are developed further.

The transition year programme is evaluated and reported upon on an ongoing basis in individual schools by my Department's inspectorate as part of its overall inspection plan.

School Meals.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

145 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason her Department has not provided schools with guidelines on the types of foods that are available on school premises; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32700/05]

Schools are privately managed institutions which, although funded by the State, enjoy a large degree of autonomy. It is, therefore, primarily a matter for each school to devise policies around the types of food that are available on the school premises and such policies should be driven by the needs and welfare of the pupils. I know that many schools have developed healthy eating policies in co-operation with their parents' associations and I would encourage others to do so.

School Curriculum.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

146 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to introduce a single science subject for the leaving certificate to encourage more students to follow the science route at third level. [32729/05]

There are five leaving certificate science subjects, each of which is offered at higher and ordinary levels. This range of subjects is necessary to ensure that courses are available in the different branches of science to match the varying needs, interests, ability levels and career plans of senior cycle students. The availability of these subjects also affords schools a degree of flexibility that is important when planning to meet the needs of their students.

Significant progress is being made in regard to curricular reform and in-service support for science at both primary and post-primary levels. Science was introduced as a key component in the revised primary school curriculum in 1999 and it has been implemented in all schools since September 2003. A revised junior certificate syllabus was introduced in September 2003 for first examination in June 2006. I believe that this syllabus with its hands-on investigative approach and its new emphasis on scientific process will be particularly instrumental in encouraging more pupils to continue science in senior cycle, especially as the completion of 30 mandatory experiments will now be a requirement for all students.

For the leaving certificate, revised syllabi have already been fully implemented in biology, physics and chemistry. Each of these curricular changes is being or has been supported by national in-service programmes for teachers. To complete the cycle of revision, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment is working on the development of a new leaving certificate physical sciences syllabus to replace the current physics and chemistry combined syllabus and a revision of agricultural science is very well advanced. All of these developments and supports have been designed and implemented to encourage students' interest in science from an early age and to increase uptake of science-related courses at third level.

My Department is fully committed to strengthening the quality of science teaching and learning, promoting increased scientific literacy and encouraging more students to choose science subjects at senior cycle and at third level. Progress in these areas is a vitally important part of our national strategy to support competitiveness and employment. My Department's work in supporting and promoting science work will continue to be progressed and enhanced, as resources permit, in collaboration and consultation with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Forfás and industry.

Psychological Service.

Michael Noonan

Question:

147 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of secondary schools which have access to the National Educational Psychological Service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32709/05]

Olwyn Enright

Question:

170 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary schools which have access to the National Educational Psychological Service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32707/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 147 and 170 together.

All primary and post-primary schools have access to psychological assessments for their pupils, either directly through National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, psychologists or through the scheme for commissioning psychological assessments, SCPA, that is administered by NEPS. Schools that do not have NEPS psychologists assigned to them may avail of the SCPA, whereby the school can have an assessment carried out by a member of the panel of private psychologists approved by NEPS, and NEPS will pay the psychologist the fees for this assessment directly. Details of this process and the conditions that apply to the scheme are available on my Department's website.

As of October 2005, NEPS psychologists provided a dedicated service to a total of 1,623 primary schools and to 563 post-primary schools. The latter figure does not include 46 City of Dublin Vocational Education Committee, CDVEC, schools that have a VEC educational psychological service.

NEPS provides assistance to all schools that suffer from critical incidents, regardless of whether they have a NEPS psychologist assigned to them. Also, in relation to all schools, NEPS processes applications for reasonable accommodation in certificate examinations.

The number of NEPS psychologists has increased almost three-fold, from 43 on establishment to 123 at present. The Public Appointments Service has recently established new recruitment panels for NEPS. Regional panels are now in place and this will enable my Department to give priority to filling vacancies in areas of greatest need. Any increase in the number of psychologists in NEPS will depend on the availability of resources and must also take account of Government policy on public sector numbers.

Question No. 148 answered with QuestionNo. 125.

Stay Safe Programme.

Billy Timmins

Question:

149 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the percentage of primary schools which have implemented the Stay Safe programme; the number of times this should be carried out; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32772/05]

Gerard Murphy

Question:

183 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools here offering the Stay Safe programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32697/05]

Simon Coveney

Question:

192 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary schools which do not offer the Stay Safe programme; the reasons these schools do not offer the programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32698/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 149, 183 and 192 together.

Child protection and the implementation of the stay safe programme for all children in every primary school are priorities for my Department. The Stay Safe programme, which is also known as the child abuse prevention programme, CAPP, is a primary school-based approach to the prevention of child abuse. The programme aims to reduce vulnerability to child abuse through the provision of in-service training for teachers, parent education and personal safety education for children at primary school level.

The Stay Safe programme is a four-stage approach to preventing child abuse involving children's safety education; teacher training; parent education; and community awareness. The programme aims to give children the skills necessary to enable them to recognise and resist abuse-victimisation and teaches them that they should always tell an adult who can help of any situation which they find unsafe, upsetting, threatening, dangerous or abusive. Stay Safe is a personal safety skills programme which can be used with primary school children from senior infants to sixth class. It seeks to enhance children's self-protective skills by participating in lessons on safe and unsafe situations, bullying, touches, secrets, telling and strangers.

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. At present, approximately based on a sample survey 80% to 85% of primary schools are teaching the programme to their students, but it should be recognised that the Stay Safe programme is not mandatory and schools can decide whether to introduce the programme.

It should be noted, however, that the central elements of the programme, primarily personal safety strategies and, more importantly, the overall issue of child protection, are now taught as integral parts of the subject of social, personal and health education, SPHE, which is part of the curriculum taught in every primary school. Specifically, the strand unit entitled Safety and Protection provides material for teachers to explore with children appropriate strategies in personal safety which incorporate elements of the stay safe programme. In addition, the implementation of my Department's child protection guidelines for all primary schools has given an additional impetus to the Stay Safe programme as well as the overall issue of child protection.

The current high level of take-up of the Stay Safe programme combined with the implementation of my Department's child protection guidelines and the incorporation of the central elements of the Stay Safe programme in addition to the coverage of the overall issue of child protection within SPHE is very positive. I would strongly encourage all schools to use the Stay Safe programme.

Educational Disadvantage.

Mary Upton

Question:

150 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the standardised approach to identification of disadvantage planned under the DEIS action plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32783/05]

A key element of DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, the new action plan for educational inclusion, is the putting in place of a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage in our primary and second level schools, which will result in improved targeting of resources at those most in need. The identification and analysis process is being managed by the Educational Research Centre on behalf of my Department. This process is being assisted by an advisory group, and will be supported by quality assurance work co-ordinated through my Department's regional offices and the inspectorate.

As a result of the identification process, approximately 600 primary schools, comprising 300 urban-town schools and 300 rural schools, and 150 second level schools will be included in a new school support programme, SSP. The SSP will bring together and build upon a number of existing interventions for schools and school clusters-communities with a concentrated level of educational disadvantage. It is anticipated that the identification process will be completed by the end of the year.

School Staffing.

Simon Coveney

Question:

151 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied with the interview processes that are used to fill vacant positions at second level schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32795/05]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

190 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science if complaints have been made to her with regard to the interview processes used for the filling of positions at second level schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32794/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 151 and 190 together.

The recruitment and appointment of teachers to fill vacancies in an individual second level school is a matter for the relevant school authority. First-time appointment is normally achieved through a system of open competition following advertisement which details the subject requirements of the post. Selection is by means of interview which takes into account the suitability of the qualifications of the applicant for the post as advertised, any relevant experience as well as other factors relating to the applicants general suitability for the post. There is a responsibility on the school authorities to ensure that the selection process is fair and impartial. The objective is to select the most suitable candidate for the post.

From time to time, my Department receives complaints from disappointed applicants for teaching positions. As the matters complained of generally come within the remit of the school authority, the complainants are advised to bring the matters complained of to the attention of the relevant authority. In the event that the complainant is dissatisfied with the response of the school authority, contact may be made with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment which operates a comprehensive employee rights advisory service.

Education Welfare Service.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

152 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the average caseload per officer at the National Educational Welfare Board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32712/05]

The Education (Welfare) Act 2000 established the National Educational Welfare Board as the single national body with responsibility for school attendance. 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 is 94, comprising 16 headquarters and support staff, five regional managers, 12 senior educational welfare officers, SEWOs, and 61 educational welfare officers, EWOs. 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 receiving an education. Since September 2005 every county in Ireland is served by an educational welfare service.

The board has indicated to my Department that the average caseload of each educational welfare officer as at September 2005 was about 108. This has reduced from the July average of 164 arising from the filling of the ten additional EWO posts. The board is continually reviewing the protocols for prioritising children and families who require intervention to ensure that children with greatest need gain maximum benefit from available resources and working with local agencies in prioritising children's and family needs.

In this regard, 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.

Question No. 153 answered with QuestionNo. 119.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

154 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science her timescale for reducing class size at both primary and post-primary level to EU norms; when she will implement the undertaking in An Agreed Programme for Government that the average size of classes for children under nine years will be brought below the international best-practice guidelines of 20:1; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32811/05]

Paudge Connolly

Question:

624 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the timescale for the reduction of infant class sizes to 15 per teacher in accordance with international best practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32864/05]

Paudge Connolly

Question:

625 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the amended timescale for the achievement of the programme for Government commitment to reduce class sizes for all children under nine years of age to 20:1 in accordance with best European practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32866/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

676 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made to reduce pupil-teacher ratios in line with best practice in other European countries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33200/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

679 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if further improvements will be made in the pupil-teacher ratio at primary or second level schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33203/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 154, 624, 625, 676 and 679 together.

Since 1997, the Government has dramatically increased the number of teachers in schools. At primary level more then 4,500 additional teachers, including nearly 2,500 resource teachers, have been employed. At post-primary level approximately 1,900 additional teaching posts have been allocated during this period. These additional teaching posts have been used to reduce class sizes, to tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for children with special needs.

The pupil-teacher ratio, which includes all the teachers in the school including resource and learning support teachers, has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 17.1:1 — projected — in 2004-05 at primary level, and from 16:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 13.6:1 in the 2003-04 school year at post-primary level. At primary level average class size has been reduced from 26.6 in 1996-97 to 23.9 in 2003-04. Significantly smaller classes have been introduced in disadvantaged schools involved in the Giving Children an Even Break — Breaking the Cycle programme, with approximately 47,700 pupils in 243 participating schools availing of reduced class sizes of either 15 or 20 pupils per class.

The Deputy will be aware of the new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools. This action plan will result in the reduction in class sizes of 24:1 at senior level and 20:1 at junior level in 150 primary schools serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage.

The mainstream staffing of a school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous year. At primary level, the staffing allocation system is based on ensuring an overall maximum class of 29 in each school. Where some classes in a school have class sizes of more than 29, it is generally because a decision has been taken at local level to use their teaching resources to have smaller numbers in other classes in the school.

In relation to providing for children with special educational needs, there are now more than 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares with fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.

In line with the commitment in the programme for Government, class sizes will be reduced still further. The deployment of additional posts will be decided within the context of the overall policy that priority will be given to pupils with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and junior classes.

Teacher allocations to second level schools are approved annually by the Department in accordance with established rules based on recognised pupil enrolment. The rules for allocating teaching resources provide that where a school management authority is unable to meet its curricular commitments, the Department will consider applications for additional short-term support. An independent appeals mechanism is available to school authorities who wish to appeal the adequacy of their teacher allocation.

In recent years improvements have been made under various schemes. In 1999 an ex-quota allocation was made to all second level schools in the free education scheme in respect of remedial education and the home-school-community liaison scheme was extended to all schools designated disadvantaged.

In 2000 a decision was made to reduce the general pupil-teacher ratio for appointment purposes from 19:1 to 18:1 and additional posts were also provided for leaving certificate applied, junior certificate programme and the guidance enhancement initiative resulting in approximately 1,000 additional posts in the sector.

The number of teaching posts allocated to cater for pupils with special educational needs has increased from 559 whole-time equivalents, WTE, in 2001-02 to 1,599 whole-time equivalents, WTE, in the current school year. In addition, the Department has provided for an additional allocation of 100 posts to guidance from September 2005.

School Curriculum.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

155 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools offering relationships and sexuality education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32721/05]

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; 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.

Multi-Denominational Schools.

Richard Bruton

Question:

156 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the level of funding made available to Educate Together to advance multi-denominational teaching here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32701/05]

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

178 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if €500,000 will be provided to Educate Together in order that it can fulfil the role in the absence of the State doing so, of providing inter-denominational education at primary level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32762/05]

Jerry Cowley

Question:

596 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to provide core funding to a group (details supplied); her views on the increasing demand among persons here for education of this type; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32551/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 156, 178 and 596 together.

The level of funding that my Department provides to Educate Together as a school management body is on a par with that provided to Foras Patrúnachta na Scoileanna Lánghaeilge, the Church of Ireland Board of Education, the Islamic Board of Education and the National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education.

However, following discussions with Educate Together my Department has provided additional funding to Educate Together in 2005 to meet the immediate issues of concern to that body. The amount provided in 2005 was €81,133.

The matter of the future funding to be provided to the primary management bodies, including Educate Together, in 2006 will be considered as part of the normal Estimates process.

In accordance with the provisions of the Education Act 1998, I, as Minister, am obliged to have regard to the need to reflect the diversity of educational services provided in the State.

Applying this provision to the development of multi-denominational education, at primary level, my Department has supported the establishment of a significant number of new multi-denominational schools in recent years. Of the 24 new schools granted provisional recognition in the past three years alone, 12 are multi-denominational. At post primary level, the requirement for multi-denominational education is met by the State sector through non-designated vocational education committee schools.

To underpin the establishment of new schools, my Department has made a number of changes in recent years which have assisted patron bodies in the provision of accommodation. One of these changes, which was strongly welcomed by the patron body for multi-denominational schools, was the abolition of the local contribution to the building costs for State-owned school buildings, which had cost up to €63,000 per school. Other innovations include the development of the design and build model to provide permanent accommodation much faster — such as in the case of the new multi-denominational school in Griffeen Valley, Lucan, which was designed and built in less than 13 months.

Many multi-denominational primary schools are established in areas of rapidly expanding population growth. School building projects in these areas are assigned a band one rating under the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects. This is the highest band rating possible which results in the delivery of permanent accommodation in the shortest timeframe achievable.

These measures are a strong indication of my Department's commitment to supporting an educational diversity agenda, including multi-denominational education provision. It will continue to do so as part of its own statutory obligations and in the context of the national development plan which is structured to support the development of all educational sectors regardless of ethos.

Computerisation Programme.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

157 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the support available to schools to implement information technology programmes and to use broadband; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32761/05]

The provision of broadband connectivity is one of a number of facets of my Department's ICT initiative which aims to integrate information and communications technology into teaching and learning in first and second level schools. The key elements to achieving this objective are access to the technologies, the development of skills in their usage and the availability of high quality curricular relevant digital content. Broadband connectivity is seen as a key enabler within this process. The Deputy will be aware that significant resources have been invested in ICT infrastructure in schools since 1998, initially in the acquisition of computers and peripherals and more recently in the development of computer networking facilities in schools.

In parallel a range of teacher training courses have been developed by the National Centre for Technology in Education and made available to teachers via the regional education centres. The courses range from basic computer operation to higher order technical skills of network management, website design, Internet use, digital media and a number of general and subject specific pedagogical ICT courses. In addition an ICT advisory service has been developed to provide school authorities and teachers with advice and assistance in the range of technical and pedagogical needs.

High quality digital content is essential to ensuring effective use of ICT in the classroom. In this context, the Scoilnet portal has been developed to provide a focal point of reference and a resource for teachers, students and parents. This portal site provides significant amounts of curriculum relevant content linking to over 6,000 websites, the content of which is aligned directly to curricular and subject areas. Work is ongoing, in collaboration with teachers, in building relevant indigenous content on the site, much of it in partnership with other agencies such as RTE, subject teachers' associations and others.

The NCTE is also working with the European Schoolnet, EUN, to implement a technological infrastructure to allow Irish schools to share access to a wide range of online educational databases located around Europe. An important aspect of this process is the development of an application profile for Irish curricular content to facilitate metatagging of content to international standards. The NCTE is collaborating with the NCCA in this regard and the acquisition of a range of on-line reference libraries is also being considered.

Schools Building Projects.

John Perry

Question:

158 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science when the number of bundles of schools to be offered to the market as part of the latest PPP school building announcement will be known; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32717/05]

Damien English

Question:

171 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science when the latest round of PPP school projects will go to market; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32716/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 158 and 171 together.

On 29 September 2005 I announced plans for the provision of 23 new post-primary and four primary schools through public private partnership procurement in the period 2005 to 2009. This is one of the most ambitious building programmes ever undertaken in the education sector.

My Department, in consultation with the National Development Finance Agency, is engaged in finalising the content of the first bundle of schools to be delivered under the current programme and I will be announcing the schools in the bundle in the near future. It is expected that the NDFA will be in a position to go to the market with this bundle in the first half of 2006. I will be launching the remaining bundles on a rolling basis thereafter as part of the four-year delivery plan.

Early Childhood Education.

Martin Ferris

Question:

159 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has been in contact with the CDI concerning its initiative A Place for Children: Tallaght West; and the Department which will be co-ordinating the Government’s response to same. [32791/05]

I met Ms Katherine Zappone, the project leader of the childhood development initiative in Tallaght earlier this year. The regional office of my Department in Tallaght also participated in the consultative group of regional agencies which provided advice and information in respect of the development of the project.

This initiative will be considered by my Department in the context of existing and future programmes to tackle educational disadvantage.

School Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

160 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the degree to which she proposes to address the issue of overcrowded classrooms at primary and second level schools throughout the country with particular reference to those schools most seriously overcrowded or deficient in terms of structures or facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32789/05]

The Government has invested in the largest school building programme in the history of the State. Between 1998 and the end of 2004, almost €2 billion was invested in school buildings and in the region of 7,500 large and small projects were completed in schools, including 130 brand new schools and 510 large-scale refurbishments-extensions. Funding for school building and renovation projects has increased five-fold since 1997. In 2005, €493 million will be spent on school building projects, compared to just €92 million in 1997.

Well in excess of 1,300 schools will benefit from the announcements that I have made so far this year with regard to the school buildings and modernisation programme.

The list of projects approved to date includes: large-scale projects to tender and construction over the next 12 to 15 months — 122, 89 primary and 33 post-primary; small schools initiative — 97, all primary; permanent accommodation initiative — 75, 70 primary and five post-primary; prefabs — 140, 137 primary and three post-primary; authorised to enter design phase — 43, 32 primary and 11 post-primary; summer works — 741, 452 primary and 289 post-primary; progress through architectural planning — 124, 73 primary and 51 post-primary; and PPPs — 27, 23 post-primary and four primary in 22 locations.

The total number of schools benefiting from this year's announcements is 1,369. The total allocation for my primary and post primary capital budget this year is an unprecedented €493 million, €270 million for primary and €223 million for post-primary.

This level of investment will need to be maintained if the goal of eliminating sub-standard accommodation is to be achieved. The Government remains committed to continuing the work that it has started and to consolidating the substantial progress that has already been made to ensure that the needs of schools throughout the country are met over time.

School Staffing.

Joan Burton

Question:

161 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that many primary schools with high numbers of children with special learning needs have lost teachers as a result of the introduction of the weighted system; if teachers will be restored to those schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32756/05]

As the Deputy is aware, the general allocation of learning support-resource teachers, LS-RTs, is intended to cater for children with learning support and high incidence special educational needs. The system was constructed so that LS-RT allocations would be based on pupil numbers, taking into account the differing needs of the most disadvantaged schools and the evidence that boys have greater difficulties than girls in this regard.

The new system has a number of benefits associated with it. It puts resources in place on a more systematic basis, thereby giving schools more certainty about their resource levels; it facilitates early intervention as the resource is in place when the child enrols; it reduces the need for individual applications and supporting psychological assessments; and it allows flexibility to school management in the deployment of resources, leading to a more effective and efficient delivery of services.

In introducing the general allocation system transitional arrangements were also introduced whereby transitional hours were allocated to schools to cater for children for whom individual teaching resources had previously been allocated but which it would not have been possible for the school to continue to provide from its general allocation. In the circumstances no child should have experienced a loss of resource teaching support.

It has always been the case, however, that schools in receipt of resource teacher support in respect of pupils with special educational needs would lose teacher support, either full posts or part-time hours, when the pupils that triggered the extra support left the school.

In the circumstances I do not propose to restore learning support-resource teachers to schools that no longer need them. It is intended that a review of the general allocation model will be undertaken within three years of operation.

I am satisfied that at this stage the general allocation system is working well and has been favourably received by schools. My Department will continue to work with schools and the education partners with a view to ensuring that this remains the case going forward.

I would add that there are now more than 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares to fewer than 1,500 in 1998. Indeed, one out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.

Third Level Qualifications.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

162 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to proposals from universities here to reduce bachelor of engineering programmes to a three-year degree and provide a two-year masters programme as a follow-on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32759/05]

I am aware of ongoing discussions regarding the structure of engineering degrees. I understand that this has been taking place in the context of changing professional standards as well as the Bologna declaration on a European area of higher education. I am also aware that the engineering professional body, Engineers Ireland, is engaged in a consultative process on its proposals with all stakeholders, and I look forward to receiving further information in due course.

Teaching Qualifications.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

163 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science if exceptions can be made to the basic requirements for posts in the VEC sector which would allow for the recruitment of a person who does not meet the basic requirements for any given position; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32793/05]

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

176 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if candidates for posts in the VEC sector, who claim relevant qualification for any given post, are subject to having their qualifications examined or scrutinised prior to appointment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32792/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 163 and 176 together.

The recruitment and appointment of teachers to fill teaching vacancies that arise in the VEC sector is a matter for the relevant VEC.

It a matter for a VEC to satisfy itself as to the suitability of the qualifications of any applicant for any given post prior to making an appointment. Where the VEC is in any doubt as to the suitability of an applicant's qualifications, my Department will arrange for the qualification(s) in question to be assessed on receiving all relevant details regarding the post and the qualifications from the VEC.

Where a doubt exists and where no other more suitably qualified applicant exists, a VEC may proceed with the conditional appointment of the most suitably qualified applicant subject to the qualifications being assessed.

Question No. 164 answered with QuestionNo. 116.
Question No. 165 answered with QuestionNo. 123.

Teaching Profession.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

166 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of males entering primary level teaching for the most recent year for which statistics are available; the number entering primary level teaching; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32706/05]

In the current school year, of the 1,749 permanent and temporary qualified teachers appointed for the first time at primary level, 189 were male.

I am aware of the decreasing numbers of males entering the teaching profession, and it is an issue that is of concern to me. It is important to attract more men into teaching for a number of reasons, not least of which is the positive role models that teachers provide in children's lives and the desirability of having both male and female role models in our schools.

I have now received the report of the primary education committee, Males into Primary Teaching. The primary education committee was established in order to examine a range of issues in relation to males entering primary teaching, and to make recommendations on short-term and long-term strategies to increase the numbers in this regard.

One of the key recommendations in the committee's report is that a co-ordinated promotion campaign, which would encourage boys as well as girls to enter primary teaching, should be undertaken. Officials in my Department are examining how such a promotion campaign can be run to maximum effect.

All other recommendations contained in the report are also currently receiving active consideration.

Departmental Projects.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

167 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the renewable energy research projects funded by her Department over the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32728/05]

I am arranging for the information requested by the Deputy to be collated and it will be sent to the Deputy shortly.

Educational Disadvantage.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

168 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Education and Science when the new integrated school support programme will be introduced; when she will announce which schools will be included in the programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32806/05]

The new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, which will be introduced on a phased basis starting during the current school year, aims to ensure that the educational needs of children and young people, from pre-school to completion of upper second level education — three to 18 years — from disadvantaged communities are prioritised and effectively addressed. The new plan is the outcome of the first full review of all programmes for tackling educational disadvantage that have been put in place over the past 20 years and it will involve an additional annual investment of €40 million on full implementation. It will also involve the creation of about 300 additional posts across the education system generally.

A key element of this new action plan is the putting in place of a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage in our primary and second level schools, which will result in improved targeting of resources at those most in need. As a result of the identification process, approximately 600 primary schools, comprising 300 urban-town and 300 rural, and 150 second level schools will be included in a new school support programme, SSP. It is anticipated that the identification process will be completed by the end of the year.

The action plan addresses all the following key issues and needs: improving identification of disadvantage — a standardised approach will allow my Department to target resources more effectively; increasing early childhood education provision in the most disadvantaged communities; improving supports for pupils with low attainment levels in literacy and numeracy; enhancing procedures for measuring the outcomes achieved from educational inclusion measures; enhancing integration and partnership working, both within the education sector itself and cross-sectorally; enhancing professional development supports for principals and school staff; and enhancing research and evaluation.

School Discipline.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

169 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if funding will be provided in budget 2006 to implement proposals expected from the task force on student behaviour in second level schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32816/05]

Liam Twomey

Question:

207 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Education and Science when the task force on student behaviour will deliver its final report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32715/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 and 207 together.

The task force on student behaviour will complete a final report, including recommendations, later this year. In its interim report, the task force recognises that the most important feature of its work is to generate a set of recommendations that will impact in a positive way and will help to curtail the spread of disruptive behaviour in our schools. At its interim report stage, the task force decided to document the broad areas that are emerging and that will form the bedrock of its recommendations in its final report which is expected in December 2005.

Since the task force was established early this year, it has come to grips with the breadth and complexity of this vitally important area. In tackling its job it has consulted widely and built upon submissions, research and its own analysis to define sharply the areas where, in its final report, it will make recommendations to underpin future change.

I am particularly impressed with the ability of the task force to focus on the core issues. It has indicated to me that it is on target to produce a final report and detailed recommendations in December of this year. Before producing that report it wanted to engage further with the wide range of interests in this area and to review what works and does not work both domestically and internationally. I am greatly encouraged by this interim report and I look forward to receiving the final report and its recommendations.

Question No. 170 answered with QuestionNo. 147.
Question No. 171 answered with QuestionNo. 158.

Physical Education Facilities.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

172 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary schools which have a sports facility on-site or access to a sports facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32705/05]

The information in the format requested by the Deputy is not readily available. However, in relation to PE facilities in primary schools generally, the PE curriculum has been designed on the basis that facilities in schools may vary. Many primary schools have a general purpose room and practically all schools have outdoor play areas which are used for teaching different aspects of the physical education programme. In addition, many schools use adjacent local facilities, including public parks, playing fields and swimming pools.

My Department fully recognises the key role of physical exercise within the school environment and continues to respond to the need to improve PE facilities. The provision of such facilities is an integral part of the design process for new school buildings or where an existing school building is undergoing major refurbishment. New PE equipment such as balancing benches and gym mats are funded as part of any major building programme.

In addition to this, the school planning section of my Department is working proactively with some local authorities to explore the possibility of the development of school provision in tandem with the development of community facilities. This enhanced co-operation has the effect of minimising my Department's land requirements and thus reducing site costs while at the same time providing local communities with new schools with enhanced facilities such as sports facilities, playing pitches etc.

The Deputy may also be aware that the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism is undertaking a national audit of sports facilities in communities around the country, which will also provide useful information on facilities available to schools.

Educational Disadvantage.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

173 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if the drop-out rate from schools in poorer areas is a crisis; and the way in which she proposes to address same. [32815/05]

David Stanton

Question:

180 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the efforts she is taking to address educational disadvantage, in particular in relation to the high school drop-out rates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32739/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 173 and 180 together.

Given the clear link between early school leaving and continued socio-economic disadvantage in adult life, the Government is determined to do all that is possible to ensure that every child gets all the opportunities and support they need to enable them to complete their education.

To this end, we are providing increased resources for schools in disadvantaged areas to improve their school completion rates by offering extra supports for their students. These include extra educational supports and services such as breakfast clubs and homework supports. Working with parents to promote school attendance is also an important part of the work of the home school community liaison officers appointed to our disadvantaged schools.

Other measures designed to improve school completion include the establishment of the National Educational Welfare Board in 2002 with a remit to monitor school attendance, help parents to get a school place for their child and run promotional campaigns on the importance of finishing school. The priority that this Government attaches to tackling early school leaving is evident from the fact that the budget for the welfare board has been increased by 20% in 2005.

A total of €24 million is being provided this year for the school completion programme, which is one of our key interventions to combat early school leaving and educational disadvantage and is developing strong links between primary and post-primary schools in disadvantaged areas. In addition, my Department supports youth encounter projects, YEPs, which provide educational facilities to young people who have become alienated from the conventional school system.

Increased integration will also be promoted between the work of second level schools and centres catering for young early school leavers, particularly Youthreach centres and senior Traveller training centres.

Under the new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS, which I launched in May, additional supports are being targeted at children in the most disadvantaged schools to encourage them to stay in school. The key principle of early intervention to identify and help children at risk of leaving school early is a major component of the plan.

Under DEIS, additional clusters will be created under the school completion programme which provides a wide range of targeted supports on an individual and group basis to children and young people who may be at risk of early school leaving. The services of the home school community liaison scheme will also be extended and a continuing emphasis will be placed on the development of effective transfer programmes by building on the existing work of the HSCL scheme and the school completion programme. An additional guidance counselling provision, being made available for second level schools having the highest concentrations of disadvantage, will also assist to increase retention rates.

We anticipate being in a position to notify participating schools in relation to the outcome of the ongoing identification process under DEIS by the end of the year. I am committed to ensuring our policies strive to increase the retention rate of students in our schools.

Post-Primary Education.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

174 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the fact that for Ireland to fulfil the requirements of the Lisbon Agenda, increased resources are needed for post-primary schools in order that they can reduce their class sizes and provide young persons with the supports they need, especially those with learning disabilities and those who are at risk of dropping out of school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32777/05]

The strategic goal set at the Lisbon European Council in March 2000 is to make the European Union the most competitive and dynamic knowledge-based economy in the world, capable of sustainable economic growth with more and better jobs and greater social cohesion, by 2010. Education and training have a central role in achieving the Lisbon goal. My Department has taken a range of policy initiatives and measures in recent years which contribute to developing the knowledge society and achieving the Lisbon goal.

At post-primary level, significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio in recent years. The pupil-teacher ratio has been reduced from 16:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 13.4:1 in the 2004-05 school year. My Department will continue to provide further reductions in the pupil-teacher ratio within available resources and subject to spending priorities within the education sector. Priority will be given to pupils with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas.

As the Deputy is aware, there has been enormous progress made over the past number of years with regard to increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special educational needs. To date, at second level, there are 1,614 whole-time equivalent teachers in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to 200 teachers that were in place in 1998 for such pupils. In addition, there are 1,023 whole-time equivalent special needs assistants in our second level schools.

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.

Given the clear link between early school leaving and continued socio-economic disadvantage in adult life, the Government is determined to do all that is possible to ensure that every child gets all the opportunities and support he or she needs to enable her or her to complete his or her education. To this end, we are providing increased resources for schools in disadvantaged areas to improve their school completion rates by offering extra supports for their students. These include extra educational supports and services such as breakfast clubs and homework supports. Working with parents to promote school attendance is also an important part of the work of the home school community liaison officers appointed to our disadvantaged schools.

Other measures designed to improve school completion include the establishment of the National Educational Welfare Board in 2002 with a remit to monitor school attendance, help parents to get a school place for their child and run promotional campaigns on the importance of finishing school. The priority that this Government attaches to tackling early school leaving is evident from the fact that the budget for the National Educational Welfare Board has been increased by 20% in 2005. A total of €24 million is being provided this year for the school completion programme, which is one of our key interventions to combat early school leaving and educational disadvantage. In addition, my Department supports youth encounter projects that provide educational facilities to young people who have become alienated from the conventional school system. Increased integration will also be promoted between the work of second level schools and centres catering for young early school leavers, particularly Youthreach centres and senior Traveller training centres.

Under the new action plan for educational inclusion, which I launched in May, additional supports are being targeted at children in the most disadvantaged schools to encourage them to stay in school. The key principle of early intervention to identify and help children at risk of leaving school early is a major component of the plan. My Department is committed to further advancing the Lisbon Agenda to the maximum extent possible. To this end, the statement of strategy for my Department is informed by, and explicitly acknowledges, the importance of the Lisbon strategy.

Garda Vetting Procedures.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

175 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Education and Science the categories of workers within the educational system that are vetted by the Garda with regard to the risk of child abuse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32807/05]

Denis Naughten

Question:

195 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science when teachers and other school staff will be subject to vetting procedures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32711/05]

Dan Neville

Question:

197 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether all school board of management members should be subject to vetting before appointment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32710/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 175, 195 and 197 together.

Ensuring the protection, health and welfare of children is a key concern for the Government, for parents, for agencies that work with children and for society generally and I assure the Deputy that the Government is determined to do all it can to keep our children and vulnerable adults safe.

In the education sector, vetting is available in respect of prospective employees of children in detention schools as well as special needs assistants and bus escorts to children with special needs. My colleague, Deputy Brian Lenihan, Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science with special responsibility for children, announced a doubling of the number of staff employed in the unit to ensure that they can handle a greater volume of requests from employers. The unit will commence the augmentation of its existing vetting arrangements upon decentralisation targeted for mid-November this year. The provision of additional staff resources will enable the Garda Síochána's vetting services to be extended to all persons working with children and vulnerable adults. This will include teachers, caretakers, bus drivers and others working with children.

The issue of vetting members of boards of management raises the wider issue of vetting people who volunteer in the education sector. My view is that the determining factor in deciding whether or not such persons should be vetted is the extent to which they have unsupervised access to children or vulnerable adults. In consultation with the education partners, I intend to examine this issue closely as the Garda vetting service expands.

Question No. 176 answered with QuestionNo. 163.

Road Accident Investigations.

Jack Wall

Question:

177 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science when the Bus Éireann report on the school bus crash in County Meath will be published; if she will support the giving of as much information to the families of those who died or were injured as would be considered not prejudicial to a possible court action, following consultation with the Director of Public Prosecutions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32787/05]

My Department has been informed by Bus Éireann that the Director of Public Prosecutions, DPP, has requested that the publication of the report of the committee of inquiry set up by Bus Éireann to investigate the cause of the Navan bus tragedy of 23 May 2005 be deferred until the DPP's office has concluded its deliberations. My Department has also been informed by Bus Éireann that the DPP expressed his concern in a letter to the company that nothing should be published that might prejudice any criminal proceedings which might be brought. My Department further understands that Bus Éireann was in contact with the bereaved families and the families of the other students involved in the tragic accident to privately communicate this development to them.

Question No. 178 answered with QuestionNo. 156.

Multi-Denominational Schools.

John Deasy

Question:

179 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of multi-denominational primary and secondary schools here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32719/05]

The number of primary multi-denominational schools established in this country to date is 39. At post-primary level, the requirement for multi-denominational education is met through the State's network of non-designated VEC schools, of which there are 195. A complete list of schools together with addresses and contact numbers is available on my Department's website, http://www.education.ie.

Question No. 180 answered with QuestionNo. 173.

Child Protection.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

181 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department monitors the implementation of the Department of Education and Science child protection guidelines for post-primary schools to ensure that they are implemented in all post primary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32760/05]

The child protection guidelines for post-primary schools were drawn up following a consultation process with the education partners. The guidelines are based on children first, the national guidelines for the protection and welfare of children. Sufficient copies of the guidelines have issued to all post-primary schools so that each staff member can be provided with his or her personal copy. An area of my Department's website, http://www.education.ie, has been specifically designated to the subject of child protection.

Boards of management are required to formally adopt the guidelines as official school policy on child protection and are required to formally appoint a designated liaison person, DLP, usually the principal, and deputy designated liaison person. The DLP is responsible for briefing all school staff on the adoption and implementation of the guidelines.

A training programme for designated personnel commenced in November 2004 and ran throughout the last school year. Schools which were unable to avail of this training in 2004-05 have since been offered a further programme of courses in the first term of the current school year. A programme of follow-up training for DLPs and deputy DLPs will commence in 2006. Following discussions with the three post-primary management bodies, agreement was reached on the provision by those bodies of an advisory service to support DLPs in delivering in-school briefings on the guidelines and in dealing with issues arising. This service commenced in September of this year. On completion of the final schedule of introductory in-service, my Department will be seeking confirmation from each school that the board of management has formally adopted the guidelines and appointed a DLP and a deputy DLP.

Teachers’ Remuneration.

Seán Ryan

Question:

182 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the yearly cost of paying teachers’ salaries in fee-paying post-primary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32803/05]

The cost of salaries and allowances paid to teachers in fee-paying post-primary schools for the 2004-05 school year was €89,612,639. The State has traditionally paid the salaries of teachers in fee-paying schools for a number of reasons. For example, if fee-paying schools were to close and the pupils were to move to the non-fee paying sector, the cost to the State would be higher. Whether children attend fee-paying or non-fee-paying schools, teachers would have to be paid. It also ensures all teachers, irrespective of where they teach, are paid equally in accordance with their qualifications and experience.

Considerations of State support for minority religions have also been important, given that much of the fee-paying sector has traditionally been made up of Protestant schools and those with a minority religious ethos. The funding of teacher salaries in fee-paying schools by the State has been a long standing feature of our education system and one continued by successive Governments.

Question No. 183 answered with QuestionNo. 149.

Education Welfare Service.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

184 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on the current roll-out of educational welfare officers; when the full complement of 300 will be employed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32735/05]

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.

Since its formal launch in December 2003, the aim of the National Educational Welfare Board has been to provide a service to the most disadvantaged areas and most at-risk groups. The service is developing on a continuing basis. The total authorised staffing complement is currently 94, comprising 16 HQ and support staff, five regional managers, 12 senior educational welfare officers and 61 educational welfare officers. Five regional teams have been established, with bases in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford, and staff have been deployed in areas of greatest disadvantage and in areas designated under the Government's RAPID programme. 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. Since September 2005, every county in Ireland is served by an educational welfare service. In addition, the board will follow up on urgent cases nationally where children are not currently receiving an education.

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. I will be keeping the issue of the National Educational Welfare Board's staffing under review. However, I am anxious to secure greater efficiencies through integrated working and by examining the scope for improvements in operational procedures.

Post-Primary Education.

Tom Hayes

Question:

185 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if all second level schools will produce an annual school report detailing their activities under a broad range of headings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32718/05]

Bernard Allen

Question:

196 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science if all second level schools will be mandated to produce an annual school report including information on a wide range of topics including exam results; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32696/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 185 and 196 together.

There is no requirement for second level schools to produce such a report. However, the Education Act 1998 requires the board of management of a school to establish procedures for informing the parents of students in the school of matters relating to the operation and performance of the school. Such procedures may include the publication of a report on the operation and performance of the school in any school year. The methods by which such information is provided remains a matter for the board of management.

For example, I understand that it is common practice in many schools that an annual report is prepared for the final meeting of the board of management each year. This normally refers to how successfully policies were implemented during the year, highlights particular achievements and states priorities for the next school year. Some schools may send a synopsis of this report to parents. The practice of reporting in the above manner to boards of management is encouraged by some of the trustee bodies. Reports are normally sent to the trustee body.

There is also a growing trend whereby principals give a report on the activities of the school in the previous school year, as well as indicating planned activities for the coming school year, to the AGM of the parents' association at the beginning of a new school year. Many schools send a newsletter to parents at intervals during the year or at the end of the school year. Normally, information is included on planned and achieved school activities.

In my address to the annual conference of the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals last month, I also spoke of the value of schools sharing the outcomes of their ongoing self-review processes with parents and encouraged more to do so. As the Deputy will be aware, I am determined to provide more information, for parents in particular, about our schools, in a way that ensures a fair and comprehensive picture of all the different activities in a school.

As I have said on many occasions, I am strongly opposed to the publication of crude league tables based solely on examination or test results. Such tables provide an unbalanced and grossly limited indication of a school's performance. In contrast to school league tables, I believe that school inspection reports from whole school evaluations and other inspections, when read in their entirety, can provide balanced and well-informed information on schools. The whole school evaluation process involves an examination of all the varied activities of a school, from the quality of teaching and learning to the availability of extra-curricular activities and the implementation of policies in areas such as bullying and health and safety. The inspection process also includes consultation with the school's board, parents and staff members, and, at second level, with the school's students. Whole school evaluation reports can, therefore, provide valuable information on the educational and social opportunities provided by a school. The comments that they contain are also fully sensitive to the context in which the school operates in a way which is not possible with league tables.

Given the breadth of the contents of whole school evaluation reports, I believe that the publication of these and other school inspection reports could go a significant way to addressing the real needs of parents, students, teachers and others for better information on schools. The type of information provided in whole school evaluation reports will help parents who need accurate and balanced information. Whole school evaluation reports also contain valuable information that will be of interest to schools which may wish to learn from the experience of others.

I am determined to progress this matter in a sensible and responsible way and to ensure that the views of all the education partners are considered before the publication process is finalised. During the summer, I put in place a mechanism whereby this can take place. The inspectorate of my Department has held no less than 20 meetings with interested parties over the past month and is currently preparing draft guidelines for the publication of inspection reports which will be circulated shortly to the education partners. Responses to the draft guidelines will then be sought and a final draft of the proposals will be submitted to me in December. I intend that the publication of school inspection reports will commence from January 2006 for all inspections carried out from the start of the calendar year 2006.

While I do not want to pre-empt the outcome of the consultation process, the discussions held to date have been very fruitful and constructive. I know that each of the partners realises the need to address the information deficit that exists at present in terms of ensuring full public access to balanced information on schools. This is especially important to those who, like myself, are opposed to the publication of league tables and want to find a better way.

I am confident that the considered and responsible approach that we are taking to the publication of inspection reports will lead to much greater availability of information on schools without inadvertently pitting schools serving entirely different communities against each other in crude comparisons of academic performance alone. Whether intended or not, academic league tables would be a likely consequence of publishing exam results in an annual report for each school.

Education Schemes.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

186 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has satisfied herself with the support given to young mothers to stay in school or return to education. [31001/05]

My Department provides for home tuition to be made available to pupils who are absent from school during the later stages of pregnancy or immediately following the birth of a baby when attendance may be impractical. Grants are available for nine hours tuition per week for a period of up to ten weeks.

In addition, under the school completion programme, as a specific gender equality measure, my Department currently supports the educational element of six teenage parenting projects under the teenage parenting support initiative. Following an evaluation of the pilot phase, this initiative was mainstreamed under the Crisis Pregnancy Agency and my Department is represented on the advisory committee. Each teenage parenting support project has made links with a school completion project in their area, assisted by the school completion project national co-ordination team and the teenage parenting support initiative co-ordinators.

The young parents supported by the teenage parenting projects are given the opportunity to reach their full potential through continued participation in education and training. It is envisaged that this will improve their life opportunities and reduce the likelihood of the young family experiencing poverty and social exclusion and being long-term dependants on State support.

To facilitate the participation of people with child care responsibilities in further education, my Department provides funding to VECs to assist towards the child care expenses of participants in certain further education programmes. These are the vocational training opportunities scheme, Youthreach and senior Traveller training centre programmes. The administration of these grants is a matter for individual VECs and students in the relevant programmes can apply for them, as appropriate.

I recently launched a booklet entitled information for young parents in education, published by Treoir. The booklet provides information on the various options which are available to young parents and pregnant teenagers to enable them to remain in or return to education. It contains information on various programmes which are currently available for young parents, including financial supports and supports for child care. In addition to programmes provided under the remit of the Department of Education and Science, these include the back to education allowance scheme. This scheme is administered by the Department of Social and Family Affairs and is a second chance educational opportunities programme designed to encourage and facilitate unemployed people, lone parents and people with disabilities to improve their skills and qualifications with a view to joining or returning to the workforce.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

187 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that solicitors charged fees to their clients on top of the costs paid by the Residential Institution Redress Board in advance of the publicity in recent weeks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32814/05]

Section 27 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002 provides that all reasonable legal costs and other costs associated with the preparation and presentation of an application to the board will be met by the board. In the event that agreement cannot be reached between the board and the applicant's legal representative, the matter is referred to the taxing master of the High Court for determination.

The board's published guidelines and other publicity material on the redress scheme specifically highlight the fact that all reasonable legal costs incurred in respect of applications for redress are payable by the board. Furthermore, as solicitors are required under law to fully inform their clients, in writing, of the legal costs payable in their case, it is incumbent on the solicitor to inform an applicant to the board that all reasonable legal costs will be met by the board and that the applicant should not have to pay any legal costs.

The Law Society of Ireland is the body responsible under law for regulating the solicitor profession and as such it is a matter for the society to investigate complaints about the conduct of a solicitor. Earlier this year, my Department became aware that the society had taken the view that it was precluded from investigating complaints from applicants with regard to overcharging by solicitors as a result of the prohibition on disclosure of information under section 28 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002. Arising from this, I included an amendment to this section on Committee Stage of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse (Amendment) Bill 2005 to enable the Law Society to investigate such complaints. This Bill was enacted into law on 9 July 2005.

The redress scheme was set up by the Government to help alleviate the injury and suffering experienced by victims of child abuse in residential institutional care. Awards made by the board are payable in full to the applicant, without any deduction for costs. It is a disgraceful practice that some solicitors would take advantage of their clients by overcharging as reported. I welcome the steps which are being taken by the Law Society to examine and deal with the issue of overcharging by solicitors. I understand that some people have already been refunded by solicitors and that the society will take whatever further action is appropriate, first, to ensure that all persons who were wrongly charged fees are fully reimbursed and, second, to prevent a recurrence of this practice. I have also discussed the matter with the Attorney General, who is in correspondence with the Law Society on the issue. I expect that the results of the investigation undertaken by the society will be made known to the Government and the public as soon as possible.

Youth Services.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

188 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science the level of funding allocated to the national youth work development plan; the level of funding estimated to implement the plan in full; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32704/05]

The national youth work development plan, together with the Youth Work Act 2001, provides a framework for youth work in Ireland. The plan identifies four main goals and proposes 50 action points to achieve these goals over a five-year period.

To date, a number of priority action areas have been addressed. In 2003, €80,000 was spent on the implementation of a child protection training programme for the sector. In 2004, €500,000 was made available for the roll-out of the plan and was spent on further support for the child protection training programme, development of projects funded under the special projects for youth scheme and increased support to youth information centres and the youth information support partnership. In 2005, an 18% increase in the main funding line for the youth work sector has been provided. This additional funding is catering for a number of developments under the Youth Work Act 2001 and the national youth work development plan and for enhancements to existing services.

With regard to the national youth work development plan, to date in 2005, additional funding has been provided in the following areas: the establishment of ten new special projects for disadvantaged youth; the upgrade of 20 single worker special projects to two worker projects; review of youth work funding; review of youth information provision; continued support of the child protection training programme; establishment of a development fund for youth work organisations and North-South youth work training endorsement panel. It is expected that in the region of €1.6 million will be expended in 2005 on these and other action areas which are currently being progressed. The financial provision required for 2006 and 2007 will be determined by the actions of the plan identified and agreed for implementation each year, having regard to available financial resources.

Question No. 189 answered with QuestionNo. 141.
Question No. 190 answered with QuestionNo. 151.

Education Welfare Service.

Willie Penrose

Question:

191 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if a significant increase in funding will be provided to the National Educational Welfare Board in order that it can fulfil its mandate throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32818/05]

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

To discharge its responsibilities, the board is developing a nationwide service that is accessible to schools, parents or guardians and others concerned with the welfare of young people. For this purpose, educational welfare officers 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 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. Since September 2005, every county in Ireland is served by an educational welfare service. The board will also follow up on urgent cases nationally where children are not currently receiving an education.

In addition to National Educational Welfare Board staff, there are 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.

The budget allocated to the National Educational Welfare Board for 2005 was €7.838 million, an increase of €1.3 million or 20% on the 2004 allocation. I will keep the level of funding under review. However, I am anxious to secure greater efficiencies through integrated working and by examining the scope for improvements in operational procedures.

Question No. 192 answered with QuestionNo. 149.

Third Level Education.

Michael Ring

Question:

193 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of recommendations from the OECD report on higher education here that she intends to actively prioritise over the coming 12 months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32713/05]

The OECD review of Irish higher education makes a series of far-reaching recommendations for reform and development of the sector, against the backdrop of the crucial role which has been identified for it in helping to achieve the broad strategic national goal of becoming a leading knowledge-based society.

Earlier this year, the Government approved the broad reform agenda outlined by the OECD and the bringing forward of legislative proposals to transfer responsibility for management of the institutes of technology from my Department to the Higher Education Authority.

This Bill is being drafted and effecting this transfer will be a key priority of my Department in the coming year. The bringing together of universities and institutes of technology under a common management structure will facilitate the development of a more strategic approach to higher education within a unified policy framework and the gradual devolution to the institutes of technology of greater academic and managerial autonomy.

In April of this year, in outlining a detailed response to the OECD recommendations, I announced my intention to create a strategic innovation fund to incentivise reform and modernisation in the sector. Planning for this is at an advanced stage, with detailed criteria for the fund currently being finalised by my Department and the Higher Education Authority. I expect to be in a position to announce funding for a call for proposals in 2006 shortly. Development of a new funding model for third level institutions by the Higher Education Authority is also at an advanced stage.

Action on a number of other issues raised in the review is also already underway, in particular the proposal by the OECD that research and development issues should be co-ordinated across Departments and agencies. The interdepartmental committee on science, technology and innovation is now playing an active role in planning for our needs into the future and ensuring that national objectives are pursued and achieved in a "joined up" manner.

I have signalled my intention, where necessary, to bring forward comprehensive new legislation to give effect to those OECD recommendations that will involve legislative change. I view the OECD recommendations as a framework which will ensure that higher education institutions have the capacity to help Ireland's transition to the knowledge society and I have also made it quite clear that the final shape of future policy proposals for the sector will take account of the views of those working in and with it. To this end, my Department and I have already engaged in an extensive consultation process with stakeholders and I look forward to this dialogue continuing into the future.

Post-Primary Education.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

194 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Science if substantial extra funding will be provided to raise the amount spent on post-primary education from the current position of 21 out of 27 OECD countries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32754/05]

The OECD report referred to by the Deputy examines changes in expenditure since the mid-1990s. It shows that public expenditure on education in Ireland has increased substantially between 1995 and 2002 at all levels, even when allowing for inflation. According to data provided by my Department, per pupil expenditure in Ireland at second level has increased by 16% from €5,845 in 2002 — constant 2004 prices — to €6,788 in 2004.

Increased national income and public expenditure has enabled us to reduce average class size over time as well as increase expenditure on salaries and other areas of current expenditure. In the case of the student-teacher ratio, the figure for Ireland at second-level has fallen to 13.6 in 2003-04, which is in line with the international average.

In recent years, second level schools have benefited from substantial increases in direct funding. The standard capitation grant, which is the main source of funding towards the running costs of secondary schools, now stands at €286 per pupil from 1 January last. In the case of disadvantaged schools, an additional per capita grant of €38 is paid, bringing the total per capita grant to €324.

Introduced with effect from the 2000-01 school year, the per capita grant paid under the school services support initiative for secondary schools now stands at €145 per pupil from January last. This increased grant is paid in addition to the range of equalisation grants of up to €15,554 —€44.44 per pupil — per annum that have also been approved for voluntary secondary schools. A secondary school with 500 pupils now receives annual grants of up to €255,761 —€275,000 in the case of disadvantaged schools — towards general expenses and support services. These significant increases in the funding of post-primary schools is a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of schools.

Question No. 195 answered with QuestionNo. 175.
Question No. 196 answered with QuestionNo. 185.
Question No. 197 answered with QuestionNo. 175.
Question No. 198 answered with QuestionNo. 119.

Special Educational Needs.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

199 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science if there was a reduction in the amount of money spent by the State on court cases relating to education provision for children with special needs in 2005 in comparison to the €10 million spent for such a purpose in 2003 and 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32765/05]

To date in 2005 my Department has spent a total of approximately €907,000 on legal costs and settlements associated with court cases relating to educational provision for children with special needs compared to a total of approximately €10.13 million in 2003 and 2004. These figures do not include the costs of the State's legal defence which is borne by the Attorney General's office. It is the case that legal costs associated with such cases may take some time to be submitted and processed and it is possible that further costs will be incurred before the end of the year.

I stress there has been enormous progress made in recent years in increasing the number of teachers and other supports in our schools which are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special educational needs.

At primary level there are now approximately 5,000 teachers in our schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares to under 1,500 in 1998. Indeed, one out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs. At second level, there are approximately 1,600 whole time equivalent resource teachers in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to the approximately 200 teachers that were in place in the 1997-98 school year for such pupils. Furthermore there are approximately 6,300 whole time equivalent special needs assistants, SNAs, in our primary and second level schools supporting children with special needs.

In addition to the issue of resources at school level, the National Council for Special Education has also been established. This council has approximately 100 staff, the great majority of whom are special educational needs organisers, SENOs, who are locally based throughout the country. The role of the SENOs is to ensure that all special educational needs in their areas are addressed in an effective manner.

In particular, the SENOs are a focal point of contact for parents/guardians and schools, and process applications for resources for children with special educational needs. I am satisfied that the establishment of the Council and the work of the SENOs is transforming the delivery of special educational services in this country.

I am confident that as a State we have faced up to the issue of providing appropriate educational provision for all children with special needs and that much work has been done to ensure that the necessary resources and structures are in place. I can confirm that I will continue to prioritise the issue of special needs education and, in co-operation with the National Council for Special Education, ensure that all children with special needs are adequately resourced to enable them to meet their full potential.

School Management.

Seán Ryan

Question:

200 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the percentage of primary school boards of management under the patronage of the Roman Catholic Church that are chaired by a priest; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32804/05]

The appointment of the chairperson of the board of management of a primary school is a matter for the patron of the school. The appointment must be made in accordance with the procedures set out in the handbook, Boards of Management of National Schools Constitution of Boards and Rules of Procedure.

According to my Department's records, approximately 62% of the chairpersons of boards of management of primary schools under the patronage of the Roman Catholic Church are priests.

School Transport.

Michael Ring

Question:

201 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of concessionary students being carried on the school transport system; the number carried last year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32722/05]

The number of concessionary pupils currently being carried on school transport is 6,557. This figure may fluctuate from time to time. The numbers carried at the end of September 2004 was 6,900.

On concessionary pupils, I should clarify that a pupil at primary level is eligible for school transport if s/he resides 3.2 kilometres — two miles — or more from the nearest suitable primary school. At post-primary level, a pupil is eligible if s/he resides 4.8 kilometres — three miles — or more from the post-primary centre in the catchment area in which they live.

In the case of primary and post-primary pupils who are ineligible for school transport on the basis of the distance requirements, transport may be offered on a concessionary fare-paying basis. Such pupils are not guaranteed school transport for every year of their schooling. Rather, the granting of such concessionary transport is dependent on the availability of additional capacity on the buses used to transport eligible students. Any such additional capacity is calculated on a year-to-year basis.

Languages Programme.

Liz McManus

Question:

202 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to provide for the teaching of languages other than English or Irish in primary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32769/05]

Modern European languages are currently taught in 394, or 12%, of our primary schools as part of an initiative that was introduced by my Department in September 1998. The aims of this initiative include the development of communication skills in a modern European language, the fostering of positive attitudes to language learning and the diversification of the languages taught in our schools. In the participating schools, the pupils in fifth and sixth classes are taught one of four languages, French, German, Italian and Spanish. A dedicated support structure for the teachers in the schools concerned has been in place since the initiative was implemented.

At the request of my Department, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, carried out a study on the feasibility of modern languages in the primary curriculum. It reported to the Minister in spring 2004 and its recommendation, that any decision on the place of modern languages in the primary curriculum should be deferred until the revised primary school curriculum has been implemented in full, was accepted. This will be 2007 at the earliest. In the interim, the NCCA is engaging in additional research and a number of pilot projects with schools participating in the initiative to further inform its final advice.

My Department is working closely with language experts from the Council of Europe on an analysis of language practice at primary and post-primary level, with a view to the formulation of an integrated language policy. The outcomes of this process, together with the NCCA's advice, will be key considerations in planning the future of modern language provision at primary level.

In any comparison with other European countries around the provision of modern foreign languages in school curricula, it is important to note that all students in our schools are already required to study our two official languages, Irish and English.

School Transport.

Seán Crowe

Question:

203 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if it is her Department’s policy to refund money paid for school transport where they have been told they are outside the catchment area, when in fact they are within it; and the number of such cases. [32744/05]

Bus Éireann administers the school transport services on behalf of my Department. School bus routes are organised on a local basis by 11 regional Bus Éireann offices. Payments for school transport tickets are processed by each regional office.

If issues arise regarding refunds of payments made, these should be brought to the attention of Bus Éireann, in the first instance, for further investigation.

At the end of September, Bus Éireann informed my Department that 151 post-primary and 234 primary school applicants, who applied for transport on a concessionary basis, were refunded moneys because no transport was available on the routes concerned for concessionary applicants.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

204 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary teachers in counties Cavan and Monaghan which have 30 or more children in their classes; if she has satisfied herself that a teacher can deal with classes of up to 40 and yet give sufficient individual attention to the needs of slow or weaker children; the steps she intends to take to bring about a situation where no class would be over 30; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32528/05]

The most recent data on class size available to my Department shows that, in the 2004-05 school year, of the 322 ordinary classes in primary schools in Cavan, 44 classes had 30 or more pupils and of the 266 ordinary classes in primary schools in Monaghan, 40 classes had 30 or more pupils.

Major improvements in school staffing have been made in recent years with the hiring of more than 4,500 additional teachers. This represents the largest increase in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education. The annual estimated value of the additional expenditure on these posts is over €200 million.

In 1996-97, the average class size in our primary schools was 27. It is now 24. In 1996-97 there was one teacher for every 22 children in our primary schools. Today there is one teacher for every 17 children, the lowest pupil-teacher ratio in the history of the State. The Deputy will be happy to know that the average class size in both Cavan and Monaghan was below the provisional national average in 2004-05 at 22.9 in Cavan and 23.2 in Monaghan.

Aside from decreasing average class size, the unprecedented increase in school staffing in recent years has also greatly improved the services provided for children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas.

While there is more to be done to reduce class sizes further, it should be acknowledged how much progress has been made in this area in recent years. While the average class size nationally has been brought down to 24, I am committed, in line with Government policy, to delivering further reductions in class sizes for the under-nines. In achieving the Government target on smaller class sizes, priority must, in the first instance, be given to children with special needs and those in disadvantaged areas. Under the new action plan for tackling education disadvantage which I launched last May, more children in disadvantaged schools will be in classes of 20 in the current school year.

On the number of classes of over 30 in our schools, the Deputy should be aware that the general rule is that schools are staffed on the basis of having a maximum class size across the school of 29. Where some classes in a school have class sizes of greater than 29, it is often because a decision has been taken at local level to use their teaching resources to have smaller numbers in other classes.

The Deputy has drawn attention to the provision of support for weaker pupils. While the primary responsibility for all pupils rests with class teachers, the Deputy will be aware that additional teaching and special needs assistant supports are made available to schools to cater for pupils with learning support, special educational and special care needs.

A general allocation scheme has been introduced under which schools have been provided with learning support/resource teaching hours, based on their enrolment figures, to cater for children with learning support needs and those with high incidence special educational needs such as dyslexia.

My Department has issued a comprehensive circular, Sp Ed 02/05, to all primary schools regarding the organisation of teaching resources for pupils who need additional support in mainstream primary schools. The main purpose of this circular is to provide guidance for schools on the deployment and organisation of the teaching resources that were allocated under the general allocation model. Reference is also made in this circular to the deployment of additional teaching resources that are allocated to schools for the support of individual pupils with low incidence disabilities.

Schools Building Projects.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

205 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the expenditure of €45 million on 51 sites for new schools in the past five and a half years; her proposals to reduce the cost of sites for educational purposes for the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32766/05]

The purchase of new school sites is underpinned by a thorough assessment of the need for new educational facilities at primary and post-primary level in any given area.

In general, where the need for a new school site has been identified, the property management section of the Office of Public Works acquires the site on behalf of my Department. The process of site acquisitions takes account of all relevant factors, including public procurement procedures. My Department's policy on site acquisitions is to treat them with the strictest confidentiality until the acquisition has been completed. This is to ensure that my Department will achieve best value for money.

As part of the site acquisition process, my Department also monitors county development plans and area action plans and meets with local authorities as required to establish the location, scale and pace of major housing developments. An assessment is carried out of the likely implications of such developments in the capacity of existing schools and, where appropriate, the local authority is requested to reserve a site for educational purposes. Such reservations may ultimately result in the acquisition of the site and the development of a school or schools.

While it would be fair to say that the cost of sites impacts on the overall capital envelope available for school buildings it is important to note that the question of acquiring suitable land per se rarely in practice retards the delivery of a school building project in a rapidly developing area.

There is of course an issue as to whether my Department ends up paying a fair and reasonable price for school sites and what contribution, if any, a developer should make. The Deputy will be aware that provisions of the Planning and Development Act 2000 do not place any onus on developers to provide school sites other than at market rates. The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Roche, and I are considering whether legislative change might be of assistance or prove the best way forward here. I would remind the House that any changes in this area would require careful consideration in the context of constitutional protection for private property and indeed in weighing up how any reduction in the price per acre of any land given for schools development might impact on the unit costs and affordability of houses developed on the remaining lands.

School Inspector Reports.

John Deasy

Question:

206 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department will sanction the release of school inspector reports on all schools here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32695/05]

I announced some time ago that in the future reports arising from the inspection of schools and centres of education will be published. Consultations have been held with the educational partners and draft guidelines for the publication of inspection reports have been prepared and issued by the inspectorate of my Department to the educational partners in recent weeks. Following responses from the partners in the near future, a final draft of the guidelines will be submitted to me for my consideration in December 2005.

I intend that the publication of inspection reports will commence from January 2006 for all inspections carried out from the start of the calendar year 2006.

Question No. 207 answered with QuestionNo. 169.

Schools Building Projects.

Joe Costello

Question:

208 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science the evaluation her Department has carried out in advance of her announcement of the public private partnership school building programme, on the cost effectiveness and lessons to be learned from the schools built already using this model; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32758/05]

My Department has conducted a rolling review, evaluation and monitoring process of the first school bundle PPP project from project delivery through the first three years of the operation phase. This process involves regular meetings with the school principals both as a group and individually, regular meetings with Jarvis personnel and detailed review of the monthly reports for each school provided by the operator as provided for under the project agreement.

In addition, an interim evaluation report on the operation of the schools post occupancy is at present being undertaken on each of the five schools. This covers the operation of the contract on the ground and any issues of concern that have arisen. In terms of educational impact the schools will be examined as part of the programme of whole school evaluation, WSE.

An initial value for money audit of the project was undertaken by the Comptroller and Auditor General. This report was undertaken with the full co-operation and participation of my Department and is a welcome addition to the overall knowledge base on PPPs. The report by the Comptroller and Auditor General covered the pilot bundle of five schools from inception, through contract negotiation to completion of construction, but not the operation phase. His work has already informed the revision of the Department of Finance guidelines for future PPP procurement. Furthermore, the Minister for Finance has decided that the NDFA will establish a centre of expertise and procure the next phase of school projects to be delivered by PPP.

It is important to recognise that the PPP contract covers a 25-year period and that by definition an all encompassing value for money test over the full life cycle of the buildings can ultimately be carried out only with the passage of time. The Comptroller and Auditor General recognised this in his report on the project when he stated that "ultimately, the full value for money represented by the grouped school project will be determined over the 25-year life cycle of the project".

Sport and Recreational Development.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

209 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to introduce dual use sports facilities in conjunction with local communities to encourage more participation in sport, especially by girls; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32770/05]

My Department provides funding for physical education halls, general purpose rooms and outdoor play areas in schools as part of the schools' capital investment programme.

General purpose rooms at primary level and PE halls at post-primary level are considered an integral part of the design stage for any major refurbishment programme of existing school buildings, providing that the site is of sufficient size or where a new school on a greenfield site is being built.

Applications for the provision of PE or sports facilities in existing schools are considered in the context of all other applications on hand for capital investment, that is, applications for new schools, refurbishment projects, extensions, new sites, remediation programmes etc. These facilities are available to all pupils, boys and girls.

The primary responsibility of my Department in this area is the provision of school facilities for the effective delivery of the curriculum. In addition, school authorities have a considerable degree of autonomy in how their premises are managed and utilised at local level.

However, I recognise that there is a lack of recreational facilities for community use in certain areas which could be met if school premises were made available to the wider community. To encourage schools in this respect, my Department issued a circular to all school authorities earlier this year urging trustees and boards of management to make their facilities available where possible for community education and recreation purposes. Decisions in the use of school facilities remain entirely at the discretion of the school authorities, subject to the condition that the needs of the students attending the school are prioritised in the first instance.

My Department has also progressed a number of school building projects within the Fingal area whereby the council provides additional funding for larger GP rooms which are then made available as community resources outside school hours. The Department's position is that the availability of such facilities should be self-funding, that is, adequate to cover the heat-light-caretaking arrangements as well as making some contribution to the repair of wear and tear on premises caused by increased use. Of utmost importance, schools should ensure that insurance and security are covered as it is unlikely that the school's insurance policy would cover non-school activities or that a caretaker would be routinely available to open/lock up premises.

Public Service Staff.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

210 Mr. Morgan asked the Taoiseach the number of public sector employees here at present; and the percentage of the overall workforce which is employed in the public service. [32541/05]

The latest CSO figures on public sector employment are for June 2005 and indicate that there were 350,100 persons employed in the public sector. The figures are based mainly on administrative data sources and include the Civil Service, Defence Forces, Garda Síochána, regional bodies, health and education, excluding private institutions, and semi-State bodies, excluding their subsidiaries.

The latest estimate of total employment in the State, based on the Quarterly national household survey, is that there were 1,929,200 persons in employment in the March-May quarter of this year.

Departmental Records.

Dan Neville

Question:

211 Mr. Neville asked the Taoiseach the number of children born to single mothers in 2004. [32819/05]

The number of births registered outside marriage in 2004 was 19,938.

Dan Neville

Question:

212 Mr. Neville asked the Taoiseach the marriage rate per 100,000 in 2004. [32820/05]

The number of marriages registered in 2004 was 20,619. This equates to 510 marriages per 100,000 population. This figure is subject to revision.

Dan Neville

Question:

213 Mr. Neville asked the Taoiseach the number of separated and divorced persons in 2003 and 2004. [32828/05]

Population estimates, including details by marital status, are compiled on an annual basis in respect of mid-April. The following table provides estimates of separated and divorced persons for the past three years. These figures are preliminary and subject to revision after the publication of the 2006 census totals.

Number of separated and divorced persons, 2003-2005 (mid-April estimates)

Separated

Divorced

Total Thousands

2003

83.5

22.4

105.9

2004

79.8

23.7

103.5

2005

86.5

28.8

115.3

Decentralisation Programme.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

214 Ms Shortall asked the Taoiseach 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. [32096/05]

There are no proposals to decentralise any section of my Department or any of the bodies or agencies operating under its aegis. A significant part of the Central Statistics Office is already located in Cork. Of the bodies under the aegis of my Department, the National Economic and Social Development office is the only one situated on the north side of Dublin, at Parnell Square.

Departmental Expenditure.

John Deasy

Question:

215 Mr. Deasy asked the Taoiseach the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32468/05]

The information requested by the Deputy is as follows:

Year

Training

Translation

Advertising

Bilingual Signage

Other

Total

2002

700

11,280.60

4,975.14

None

None

16,955.74

2003

None

28,245.01

2,179

None

None

30,424.01

2004

None

40,673.03

2,787

None

None

43,460.03

Total

700

80,198.64

9,941.14

None

None

98,839.78

The Irish language training needs of staff in the Department of the Taoiseach are predominantly met by the Centre for Management and Organisation Development, CMOD, which provides Irish courses for the public service, Gaeleagras na Seirbhíse Poiblí, the costs of which are met from the central budget.

A number of staff have participated and continue to participate in a Gaeleagras scholarship scheme. In addition, one staff member participated in a diploma in applied Irish, Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge Fheidhmeach, which was run by the department of modern Irish in UCD. The Department of the Taoiseach refund of fees scheme covered the cost of this programme of study which was €700.

In addition, there were costs associated with updating the design of the Department's website in 2003. As the redesign involved both Irish and English versions of the websites, it is not possible to extract the cost for the redesign of the Irish version only.

As the Deputy will be aware, section 11 of the Official Languages Act provides for preparation by my Department, among others, of a scheme of delivery of our services to the general public in the Irish language. In light of this, we have published a scheme with a commencement date of 1 September 2005 to ensure a higher standard and a better availability of our services through Irish. I do not expect that this scheme will give rise to significant additional costs in the future.

The following two tables outline the detailed expenditure in each of 2002, 2003 and 2004 in respect of the translation and advertising costs.

Translation Costs

Year Translation Costs Incurred

Title of Document

Cost

2002

Ireland and the European Union: Identifying Priorities and Pursuing Goals

2,240

2002

Translation & Printing of SI 522 of 2002 (British-Irish Agreement (Amendment) Act 2002 (Commencement) Order

155.16

2002

Strategy Statement to 31 December 2003

1,205.23

2002

Telecommunications Working Group Report

1,870.51

2002

Grangegorman Working Group Report

482.70

2002

Translation into Irish of executive summary of consultation document “Towards Better Regulation”

735

2002

Translation of LINK Newsletters 2002

2,348

2002

The Green Paper on Basic Income

2,244

2003

DEC Telecommunications Working Group Report

1,870.51

2003

Translation of LINK Newsletters 2003

4,299

2003

Ireland and the European Union: Identifying Priorities and Pursuing Goals (2nd edition)

3,313

2003

2001 Annual Report

2,783

2002 Annual Report

5,396.80

*Strategy Statement 2003-2005

1,885.60

2003

Translation of Sustaining Progress Partnership Agreement

8,213.46

2003

Code of Conduct for Office Holders

483.64.

2004

Statutory Instrument 664 of 2004 Statistics (Delegation of Ministerial Functions) Order

44.77

2004

**2003 Annual Report

4,648.65

Human Resource Strategy 2003-2005

3,386.97

2004

Department Customer Charter — Charter and Customer Comment/Complaints

408.18

Procedure. The Charter was published bilingually

6,912.75

2004

Translation of lunch & dinner invitation on the occasion of the Irish Presidency eGovernment Conference

60.50

2004

Invitation — IFSC Lunch hosted by the Taoiseach

48.40

2004

Invitation re European Year of People with Disabilities

48.40

2004

Menu — IFSC Lunch hosted by the Taoiseach

48.40

2004

Invitation — Special Olympics Supporter Breakfast

48.40

2004

Translation services for Presidential Inauguration

60.50

2004

Translation services for Presidential Inauguration invitations

60.50

2004

Booklet — National Day of Commemoration

60.50

2004

Departmental Legislation Website

484.48

2004

Mid-Term Review of Part Two of Sustaining Progress — Pay and the Workplace

817.17

2004

Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution’s notice inviting submissions on Family Rights

50.00

2004

Translation of LINK newsletters 2004

6,994

2004

Translation of Progress Report on the Programme for Government

15,277.46

2004

Translation into Irish of executive summary of White Paper on Better Regulation

1,213

*There are printing costs associated with printing the strategy statement in both Irish and English but as this was a combined Irish-English document it is not possible to extract the printing cost for the Irish version only.

**There are printing costs associated with printing the annual report in both Irish and English but as this was a combined Irish-English document it is not possible to extract the printing cost for the Irish version only.

Advertising Costs

Year Advertising Costs Incurred

Nature of Costs

Cost

2002

Advertisement in Iris Oifigiúil in Irish (British-Irish Agreement (Amendment) Act 2002 (Commencement) Order

17.14

2002

Advertising in Iris Oifigiúil

4,958

2003

Advertising in Iris Oifigiúil

2,179

2004

Advertising in Iris Oifigiúil

2,787

Departmental Records.

Martin Ferris

Question:

216 Mr. Ferris asked the Taoiseach the number of farmers in County Kerry who have ceased production since 1 January 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32169/05]

The exact information requested by the Deputy is not available. In June 2000, there were 8,500 farms in County Kerry and there were 22,700 farms in the south-west region, that is, Cork and Kerry. The latest estimate, which is at a regional level, is from the June 2003 farm structure survey. This indicates that there were 21,800 farms in the south-west region in June 2003.

Commemorative Events.

Finian McGrath

Question:

217 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Taoiseach his plans for 1916 commemorations. [32906/05]

I am presently considering the most appropriate way of marking the 90th anniversary of the 1916 Rising next year, with particular emphasis on how this may present an opportunity to put in place, over the following decade, a wide-ranging programme of activities and events in the lead up to the centenary commemorations. I propose to enter into discussions with party leaders shortly on how these matters may be progressed.

In the meantime, the military parade by the Defence Forces, Óglaigh na hÉireann, commemorating the 1916 Rising, traditionally organised to take place each Easter at the GPO but in abeyance since 1971, will be restored to the annual calendar. I expect that this parade will reflect the evolved role of the Defence Forces and include significant representation of their peacekeeping service abroad with the United Nations.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

218 Mr. J. Breen asked the Taoiseach the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33013/05]

Details of membership of bodies established under the aegis of my Department are not held by reference to any disabilities. Members of State boards and bodies under the aegis of my Department are appointed through well established nominating procedures, having regard both to the remit of the boards and bodies and, consequently, the competencies and skills expected of their members. In many instances, the members are nominated through relevant nominating panels. NESC and NESF, for example, comprise representatives of the various pillars involved in social partnership, namely, employer bodies, trade unions, farming organisations and community and voluntary organisations.

Domestic Violence.

M. J. Nolan

Question:

219 Mr. Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans to increase the funding made available to organisations that provide support services for the survivors of domestic violence in view of the concerns expressed by the UN committee on the elimination of discrimination against women; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32378/05]

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 a matter for the Health Service 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. The Tánaiste awaits this report with interest and will be further informed by its findings.

Health Services.

Paul McGrath

Question:

220 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when an application for the domiciliary care allowance will be processed for a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and the reason for the delay in processing same. [32682/05]

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.

Joe Higgins

Question:

221 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will designate a specific agency to take overall responsibility for monitoring the health database of persons living near a plant (details supplied) in County Limerick. [32871/05]

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.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

222 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if respite care (details supplied) which was terminated, will be reinstated pending implementation of respite services for this person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33218/05]

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.

Departmental Meetings.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

223 Mr. Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the meetings that were held by officials from her Department with Dundalk based private hospital promoters or correspondence entered into in June 2003 and to date in 2005; and the purpose of these meetings and correspondence. [32376/05]

Over the past year, I have had discussions with numerous people on a great variety of different proposals to develop private hospitals on public hospital grounds throughout the country. In relation to Dundalk, I met a group proposing to develop a private hospital in Dundalk in May 2005. Officials in my Department met the group in July 2003. I recently made a policy direction to the board of the Health Service Executive in relation to private hospital developments that would free up new public beds. It is for the HSE to implement this policy.

Official Engagements.

Martin Ferris

Question:

224 Mr. Ferris asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will visit Kerry General Hospital so she can see first-hand the problems facing staff and patients at the hospital in particular with the accident and emergency unit, the maternity unit and with cardiology services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32377/05]

The Deputy will wish to note that it is my intention to visit Kerry General Hospital when I am next in the region. My office will be in contact with the hospital when arrangements for this visit are available.

Crisis Pregnancy Agency.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

225 Mr. McCormack asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps she has taken in relation to the Crisis Pregnancy Agency in view of the fact that it advertises abortion as a positive option alongside other options; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32388/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

237 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if claims that the Crisis Pregnancy Agency is advertising abortion as a positive option for persons with a crisis pregnancy has been investigated; and the outcome of the investigations. [32433/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 225 and 237 together.

The manner in which persons or agencies provide information about pregnancy termination services outside the State is regulated by the Regulation of Information (Services Outside the State for Termination of Pregnancies) Act 1995. This Act permits the provision of abortion information to a pregnant woman only in the context of full counselling as to all available options and without any advocacy of abortion.

I am informed by the Crisis Pregnancy Agency that Positive Options, an information campaign, seeks to empower women to make an informed decision to deal with their crisis pregnancy by informing them, in a neutral way, of the support services available. The Crisis Pregnancy Agency has advised me that it has received legal advice that the contents of Positive Options comply with the terms of the Regulation of Information (Services Outside the State for Termination of Pregnancies) Act 1995.

Health Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

226 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason the home help service to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo was stopped; and when same will be restored. [32392/05]

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.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

227 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a response has not been received to Parliamentary Question No. 109 of 25 May 2005; if she will provide this reply; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32393/05]

I understand that the Health Service Executive has recently issued a response to the Deputy concerning Question No. 109 of 25 May 2005.

Niall Blaney

Question:

228 Mr. Blaney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will increase funding to centres (details supplied) in County Donegal to provide the necessary services required; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32396/05]

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.

Niall Blaney

Question:

229 Mr. Blaney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the out-of-hours general practitioner services which are available in County Leitrim; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32397/05]

Niall Blaney

Question:

230 Mr. Blaney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of bases in place for out-of-hours general practitioner services; the number of personnel in each base on any given night in County Leitrim; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32398/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 229 and 230 together.

The Deputy's questions relate 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.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

231 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a full-time speech therapist and a full-time occupational therapist will be appointed to a special school (details supplied) in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32400/05]

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.

Medical Cards.

John McGuinness

Question:

232 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a medical card will be issued on medical grounds to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will expedite a decision. [32403/05]

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.

Hospital Services.

John McGuinness

Question:

233 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny can be relocated to a hospital where their spouse is a patient; and if she will expedite a decision in the case. [32404/05]

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.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

234 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will request the Health Service Executive to carry out an independent assessment of the capital and staffing needs for Kerry General Hospital in view of its previous underfunding by the Southern Health Board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32409/05]

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 have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Medical Aids and Appliances.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

235 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a medical card holder is entitled to obtain a hearing aid free of charge. [32411/05]

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.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Michael Lowry

Question:

236 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a medical appointment will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason for the two year waiting list; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32412/05]

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.

Question No. 237 answered with QuestionNo. 225.

Health Service Executive Correspondence.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

238 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in the Health Service Executive responding to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 450 and 451 of 28 September 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32447/05]

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 previously 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 Department has again raised this matter with the HSE.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

John McGuinness

Question:

239 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to previous parliamentary questions regarding a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; the reason the operation cannot be arranged in view of the condition of the patient and the fact that the operation is being arranged under the treatment purchase scheme; if the files were lost in this case; if the case will be investigated and a decision expedited. [32448/05]

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. My Department understands that the HSE has been in correspondence with the Deputy in relation to the case mentioned. My Department has, therefore, asked the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to respond to the further issues raised by the Deputy.

Departmental Expenditure.

John Deasy

Question:

240 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the expenditure by her Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32469/05]

This Department has not separately accounted for expenditure related to providing services through the Irish language from 2002 to 2004 so the information sought is not directly available. However, information on training in respect of the Irish language for those years is as follows: 2002, €533; 2003, €990; and 2004, €720. The total cost of translation services from English to Irish between 1 January 2004 and 30 November 2004 in my Department was €27,432, excluding VAT.

My Department has provided detailed information in respect of translation and advertising costs for 2005, the first year such accounts have been compiled.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

241 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the cost of extending BreastCheck to women over the age of 64 years in County Kildare. [32496/05]

I have asked my Department, in association with BreastCheck, to prepare an estimate of the cost of extending the programme nationally to women over the age of 64. As soon as these costings are completed, I will advise the Deputy accordingly.

Health Services.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

242 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that 242 children have been waiting more than two years for orthodontic treatment in County Kildare; the reason additional orthodontists cannot be employed on a full-time basis to clear the waiting list; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32505/05]

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.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

243 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the waiting times for eye tests for children in Maynooth Health Centre is seven months which is more than twice the waiting time for such tests in Newbridge and Athy health centres at three months; if additional resources will be directed to Maynooth to reduce the waiting time there; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32522/05]

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.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

244 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the waiting time for hearing tests in County Kildare for both adults and children; and the waiting time for the provision of hearing aids following the hearing test. [32523/05]

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.

Community Care Units.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

245 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the capital cost of providing the Maynooth community care unit in County Kildare; and the annual running cost of same. [32525/05]

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.

Hospital Services.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

246 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the review of the mobile day hospital for Maynooth and Carbury will be completed. [32526/05]

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.

Care of the Elderly.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

247 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if there was a 40% reduction in the home help hours provided for older persons in Kildare and west Wicklow between 2003 and 2005 from 440,883 hours in 2003 to 277,800 hours in 2005. [32527/05]

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.

Health Service Allowances.

John McGuinness

Question:

248 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if payment of the mobility allowance will be expedited in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow. [32529/05]

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.

Medical Records.

John McGuinness

Question:

249 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if all the medical records relating to a deceased person (details supplied) will be released to the person’s family; if the information requested in writing by persons will be released; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32530/05]

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.

Patient Private Property Accounts.

John McGuinness

Question:

250 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the status of complaints made by a person (details supplied) relating to funds managed by the Health Service Executive for long-stay patients; if the investigation will be expedited; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32531/05]

The Health Service Executive, in discharging its duty of care to long-stay patients, operates a patient private property account system to manage the private money of long-stay patients. The administration of these accounts is a service offered to patients on admission to long-stay care and is a service expected of the health service. The executive in September of this year established a multidisciplinary working group on patient private property accounts. The working group was established to ensure that the administration of these accounts meets all legal and regulatory requirements; operates in the best interests of patients in as responsive a way as practical; takes appropriate account of the input of patients, relatives and friends in so far as is practical; is consistent with best practice in terms of financial controls, transparent accountability and corporate governance arrangements; and is efficient and represents value for money in the use of staff and HSE resources.

On the complaint in question, documentation previously received in the Department has been again forwarded to the Health Service Executive for investigation. My Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter followed up as a matter of urgency and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Nursing Home Staff.

John Perry

Question:

251 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Question No. 272 of 28 June 2005, the progress which has been made regarding the 32 staff working at a nursing home (details supplied) in County Sligo who were employed by a council (details supplied) which no longer exists; when they will be employed by the Health Service Executive; the reason they have not yet received pay parity, including retrospective pay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32542/05]

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 HSE has informed my Department that it will issue a reply directly to the Deputy regarding Question No. 272 of 28 June 2005 as a matter of urgency.

Departmental Records.

Billy Timmins

Question:

252 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her Department has statistical information for the birth rates for Blessington, Hollywood and Dunlavin in County Wicklow for the past three years; and if she will provide the information (details supplied). [32544/05]

Fertility data are compiled by the Central Statistics Office and published in the annual and quarterly reports on vital statistics. "Area of residence of mother" is coded to the level of county and county borough. With the exception of certain urban districts, which in the case of County Wicklow include Bray, Arklow and Wicklow towns only, the CSO does not provide a further detailed breakdown on the "area of residence of mother".

The data sought by the Deputy on County Wicklow for 2002 to 2004 are presented in the following table. The Deputy's attention is drawn to the fact that the data for 2003 and 2004 below are provisional and relate to the number of births registered in the years concerned.

Year

No. of births registered

Rate per 1,000 population

2002

1,905

16.6

2003

1,912

16.3

2004

1,993

16.7

Source: Central Statistics Office.

Housing Aid for the Elderly.

John McGuinness

Question:

253 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a response will be expedited from the Health Service Executive relative to the care and needs of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if a report will be provided by the medical officer relative to their requirements for home improvements and proper sanitary services. [32552/05]

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. This includes responsibility for the provision of the housing aid scheme for the elderly, on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. 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.

Health Services.

John McGuinness

Question:

254 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Question No. 70 of 13 October 2005 regarding a person (details supplied) in Dublin 17, when a decision will be made regarding the funding required for a home care package in this case; if a comprehensive response relative to the level of care needed in this case either through a public hospital or by private care will be expedited; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32553/05]

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.

Public Private Partnerships.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

255 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding public private partnerships in the health sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32554/05]

The only public private partnership, PPP, I have initiated in the health sector relates to the Government's plan for a national network of radiation oncology services, which I announced last July. The network will consist of four large centres in Dublin, Cork and Galway and two integrated satellite centres at Waterford Regional Hospital and Limerick Regional Hospital. The capital investment involved is of the order of €480 million, most of which is being funded through PPP. The necessary preparatory work is under way under the aegis of the National Development Finance Agency and the Health Service Executive.

National Development Plan.

Richard Bruton

Question:

256 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the extent to which the projects identified in the economic and social infrastructure element of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 have been completed; the cost of the elements that have been completed; the way in which this compared to the original assessment of their cost; the elements and their associated cost which have been completed by way of PPP. [32573/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

257 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the extent to which projects identified in the economic and social infrastructure element of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 have yet to be completed; the expenditure to date on these elements; the expected cost of completing them; the way in which the projected cost at completion compares with the original projection; the elements and their associated cost which have been completed by way of PPP; and the projected expenditures and years in which they will be incurred to complete the remaining projects. [32576/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 256 and 257 together.

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. This includes responsibility for the bulk of capital projects identified in the economic and social infrastructure operational programme under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated as soon as possible. My Department will then be in a position to collate the relevant information and furnish a reply directly to the Deputy.

Genealogical Records.

Denis Naughten

Question:

258 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason there are no genealogy facilities or room available at the new General Register Office in Roscommon town; if she will provide such facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32584/05]

Denis Naughten

Question:

259 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons who avail of the genealogy facilities at the general register offices in Dublin on an annual basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32585/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 258 and 259 together.

Statutory responsibility for the administration of civil registration in Ireland, which includes the provision for facilities for genealogical or family research, rests with an tArd-Chláraitheoir, the Registrar-General. His office, Oifig an Ard-Chláraitheora, the General Register Office, GRO, is the central repository for all records relating to the civil registration of births, deaths, marriages, domestic adoptions and stillbirths in the State.

The modernisation programme for civil registration includes the capture and storage in electronic format of all historical paper-based records from 1845, when civil registration was first introduced in Ireland. Civil registration initially applied to non-Roman Catholic marriages only and was extended in 1864 to include births, deaths and Roman Catholic marriages. Thus far, birth records from 1864 to date, death records from 1924 to date and marriage records from 1920 to date are available on a live computer system. The remainder of the data — death records from 1864 to 1923 and marriage records from 1845 to 1919 — have been captured electronically but a substantial amount of data cleaning and conversion work is required before it can be released to the computer system.

I have made inquiries of an tArd Chláraitheoir regarding the matters raised by the Deputy and he advises me that the number of persons who avail of the genealogical or family research facility maintained by him in Dublin varies from year to year but that the number, on average, is in the order of 15,000 persons per annum.

Searches of GRO records involves accessing index books to records of births, deaths and marriages; searching these indices to identify specific entries in the records; and, if required, purchasing either photocopies or certified copies of the identified entries in the records. This facility is also available at superintendent registrars' offices in respect of events registered within their districts.

The head office of the GRO relocated from Dublin to Roscommon in April of this year, a move which was in line with Government policy on the decentralisation of Government offices. Accommodation provided at GRO, Roscommon, includes accommodation for a genealogical or family research facility which will be commissioned on completion of a major project to create, as part of the modernisation programme, an electronic database of the index books to the records of births, deaths and marriages maintained in the research facility at GRO, Dublin.

From a research perspective, the creation of an electronic database of indices will facilitate easier and more efficient record searches. It will also facilitate the extension of the availability of the indices beyond the single physical repository at GRO, Dublin, to the research facility at GRO, Roscommon, and the various HSE registration offices nationwide where civil registration is carried out. It is also the intention that the database will be extended in due course to facilitate on-line research. Planning for these developments is under way and I am satisfied that substantial benefits from its implementation in due course will accrue to professional genealogists and private individuals alike.

Health Services.

John Perry

Question:

260 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the action she will take regarding the application of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32592/05]

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.

Compensation Payments.

Michael Ring

Question:

261 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if there is any compensation package available for persons who worked at Peamount Hospital, Newcastle, County Dublin, and were subsequently diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness; the person who can be contacted to make a claim; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32635/05]

As the issue raised is a matter for the Health Service Executive, my Department has asked the executive to respond directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Dan Neville

Question:

262 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of children in the mid-western area on the waiting list to access speech and language therapy; and the length of time a child may be on the list. [32636/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Seán Haughey

Question:

263 Mr. Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if patients undergoing urostmy operations will be allowed to receive without charge drugs, medicines and medical and surgical appliances under the long-term illness scheme in view of the fact that for many this condition is permanent and cannot be reversed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32648/05]

Finian McGrath

Question:

280 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the free drugs scheme to include crohns disease; and if she will make this a priority issue as it has not been updated since 1970. [32890/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 263 and 280 together.

Under the 1970 Health Act, the Health Service Executive may arrange for the supply, without charge, of drugs, medicines and medical and surgical appliances to people with a specified condition, for the treatment of that condition through the long-term illness scheme, LTI. The LTI does not cover general practitioner fees or hospital co-payments. The conditions are mental handicap; mental illness — for people under 16 only; phenylketonuria; cystic fibrosis; spina bifida; hydrocephalus; diabetes mellitus; diabetes insipidus; haemophilia; cerebral palsy; epilepsy; multiple sclerosis; muscular dystrophies; parkinsonism; conditions arising from thalidomide; and acute leukaemia. There are no plans to extend the list of eligible conditions.

The medical card and drugs payment schemes provide assistance towards the cost of approved drugs and medicines for people with significant ongoing medical expenses. People who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves and their dependants may be entitled to a medical card. Non-medical card holders and people with conditions not covered under the LTI can use the drugs payment scheme. Under this scheme, no individual or family unit pays more than €85 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. In November 2004 I announced that from 1 January 2005 income guidelines to be used for assessments of full eligibility to medical cards would be increased by 7.5% with the objective of issuing an additional 30,000 medical cards. At that time, I also announced my intention to introduce 200,000 GP visit cards which would allow the holders of these cards to receive general practitioner services free of charge.

In June I simplified the means test for medical cards and GP visit cards. It is now based on an applicant's and spouse's income after income tax and PRSI and takes account of reasonable expenses incurred in respect of rent or mortgage payments, child care and travel to work. On 13 October 2005, I announced that the income guidelines for both medical cards and GP visit cards would be increased by an additional 20%. This means the income guidelines are now 29% higher than this time last year.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Michael Ring

Question:

264 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24 will be called to Temple Street Children’s Hospital for an MRI scan. [32655/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Michael Ring

Question:

265 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be admitted to Beaumont Hospital. [32680/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Housing Aid for the Elderly.

Dan Neville

Question:

266 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when work will be completed to a house under the special housing aid for the elderly (details supplied) in County Limerick. [32681/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Medical Cards.

Dan Neville

Question:

267 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the outcome of an appeal to refuse a medical card for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [32685/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

John McGuinness

Question:

268 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a hearing test has not been arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if there is a waiting list for the service; if so, the reason therefor; and if a decision on the case will be expedited. [32740/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

National Children’s Strategy.

David Stanton

Question:

269 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans to establish the national children’s office as an independent statutory body; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32743/05]

The national children's office, NCO, is a cross-cutting Government office established in 2001 to improve all aspects of children's lives by leading and supporting the implementation of the national children's strategy. The implementation of the strategy is spearheaded by the Minister of State with responsibility for children who reports to the Cabinet committee on children. The head of the NCO reports to the Secretary General of the Department of Health and Children. The NCO also has an advisory board of senior officials from Departments involved in implementing the strategy. There are no plans to establish the office as an independent statutory body.

Health Services.

James Breen

Question:

270 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a unit will be provided in County Clare for patients suffering from behavioural and learning problems; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32780/05]

James Breen

Question:

271 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of patients in County Clare suffering from behavioural and learning problems who were transferred to Northern Ireland or UK in 2004; the cost of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32781/05]

James Breen

Question:

272 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of patients with behavioural and learning problems in psychiatric units in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32784/05]

James Breen

Question:

273 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason persons with behavioural and learning difficulties and with no psychiatric difficulties are being admitted to psychiatric units and are medicated unnecessarily; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32786/05]I

I propose to take Questions Nos. 270 to 273, inclusive, together.

The Deputy's questions relate 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 HSE to arrange to have these matters investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Suicide Incidence.

Dan Neville

Question:

274 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the suicide number registered in each Health Service Executive region between 2000 and 2004 inclusive by age and gender and average per annum rate per 100,000 population. [32844/05]

Data on mortality are compiled by the Central Statistics Office and published in the annual and quarterly reports on vital statistics. Place of residence is coded to the level of county and county borough. The information requested by the Deputy in relation to suicide by county for 2000 to 2004 is set out in the following tables:

Table 1

Suicide and Self-Inflicted Injury: Number of Deaths and Rates per 100,000 Population by County, 2000 to 2004

2000

2001

2002

2003*

2004*

County

Number

Rate

Number

Rate

Number

Rate

Number

Rate

Number

Rate

Carlow

2

4.5

8

17.8

3

6.5

6

12.8

6

12.5

Cavan

7

12.8

9

16.2

10

17.7

8

14.0

9

15.5

Clare

8

8.1

13

12.9

16

15.5

13

12.4

14

13.0

Cork

67

15.4

100

22.7

62

13.8

64

14.1

69

15.0

Donegal

13

9.7

15

11.1

20

14.5

14

10.1

18

12.7

Dublin

115

10.5

120

10.9

103

9.2

111

9.8

104

9.0

Galway

20

10.0

23

11.3

26

12.4

21

9.9

15

6.9

Kerry

20

15.5

20

15.3

13

9.8

9

6.7

21

15.5

Kildare

20

13.1

12

7.6

21

12.8

18

10.6

13

7.4

Kilkenny

17

21.8

15

19.0

11

13.7

11

13.5

10

12.1

Laois

6

10.7

7

12.2

6

10.2

4

6.7

3

4.9

Leitrim

4

15.8

6

23.5

7

27.1

3

11.5

4

15.3

Limerick

32

18.8

16

9.3

30

17.1

24

13.5

25

13.9

Longford

3

9.8

6

19.5

4

12.9

2

6.4

5

15.8

Louth

13

13.3

7

7.0

14

13.8

16

15.4

12

11.3

Mayo

17

14.8

17

14.7

18

15.3

10

8.4

11

9.1

Meath

11

8.8

19

14.7

19

14.2

11

7.9

24

16.7

Monaghan

11

21.2

2

3.8

4

7.6

8

15.1

8

15.0

Offaly

18

29.2

12

19.2

11

17.3

7

10.8

12

18.3

Roscommon

6

11.4

5

9.4

4

7.4

3

5.5

1

1.8

Sligo

3

5.3

10

17.4

4

6.9

7

11.9

10

16.9

Tipperary

20

14.6

23

16.6

22

15.7

26

18.4

17

11.9

Waterford

12

12.2

17

17.0

12

11.8

8

7.8

16

15.3

Westmeath

9

13.2

9

12.9

6

8.4

6

8.2

7

9.3

Wexford

23

20.6

19

16.7

17

14.6

23

19.3

11

9.0

Wicklow

9

8.2

9

8.0

15

13.1

11

9.4

12

10.0

Ireland

486

12.8

519

13.5

478

12.2

444

11.2

457

11.3

*Provisional figures based on year of registration.

Source: Central Statistics Office.

Table 2

Suicide and Self-Inflicted Injury

Number of Deaths by County and Age Group, 2000 to 2004

2000

2001

2002

2003*

2004*

County

Under 25 Years

25-44 Years

45 Years and Over

Under 25 Years

25-44 Years

45 Years and Over

Under 25 Years

25-44 Years

45 Years and Over

Under 25 Years

25-44 Years

45 Years and Over

Under 25 Years

25-44 Years

45 Years and Over

Carlow

1

0

1

5

1

2

1

2

0

1

5

0

1

3

2

Cavan

2

1

4

2

4

3

2

3

5

1

4

3

2

4

3

Clare

3

3

2

2

6

5

5

6

5

4

5

4

2

7

5

Cork

19

26

22

10

49

41

11

30

21

13

24

27

11

24

34

Donegal

2

7

4

8

6

1

5

6

9

4

2

8

5

10

3

Dublin

25

57

33

20

53

47

19

54

30

24

59

28

19

41

44

Galway

4

9

7

6

8

9

9

10

7

5

9

7

6

4

5

Kerry

3

10

7

3

9

8

1

7

5

1

4

4

2

7

12

Kildare

6

7

7

1

6

5

8

8

5

4

7

7

5

6

2

Kilkenny

7

4

6

3

9

3

4

3

4

5

3

3

2

6

2

Laois

2

4

0

2

3

2

0

3

3

2

1

1

0

2

1

Leitrim

1

3

0

1

0

5

1

3

3

1

0

2

1

2

1

Limerick

7

19

6

5

9

2

12

10

8

6

9

9

7

8

10

Longford

0

1

2

2

1

3

0

1

3

0

1

1

0

3

2

Louth

1

7

5

0

3

4

3

6

5

7

5

4

4

6

2

Mayo

2

7

8

4

2

11

3

6

9

3

3

4

2

4

5

Meath

2

1

8

4

8

7

3

8

8

3

2

6

4

13

7

Monaghan

1

8

2

2

0

0

1

0

3

2

1

5

1

3

4

Offaly

4

10

4

4

7

1

5

4

2

3

3

1

3

5

4

Roscommon

1

2

3

2

1

2

0

2

2

0

1

2

0

1

0

Sligo

1

1

1

2

6

2

1

3

0

3

4

0

2

5

3

Tipperary

3

10

7

7

10

6

5

9

8

5

8

13

4

9

4

Waterford

3

4

5

4

9

4

2

4

6

2

4

2

2

7

7

Westmeath

3

1

5

1

6

2

0

2

4

2

2

2

1

4

2

Wexford

6

8

9

5

6

8

3

8

6

7

10

6

5

3

3

Wicklow

1

4

4

3

2

4

4

6

5

4

4

3

4

5

3

Ireland

110

214

162

108

224

187

108

204

166

112

180

152

95

192

170

*Provisional figures based on year of registration.

Source: Central Statistics Office.

Table 3

Suicide and Self-Inflicted Injury:

Number of Deaths by County and Gender, 2000 to 2004

2000

2001

2002

2003*

2004*

County

Male

Female

Male

Female

Male

Female

Male

Female

Male

Female

Carlow

1

1

8

0

3

0

5

1

5

1

Cavan

6

1

7

2

8

2

5

3

7

2

Clare

5

3

9

4

15

1

12

1

8

6

Cork

57

10

82

18

46

16

47

17

51

18

Donegal

10

3

12

3

17

3

9

5

15

3

Dublin

93

22

90

30

77

26

81

30

81

23

Galway

15

5

19

4

23

3

21

0

12

3

Kerry

15

5

17

3

11

2

7

2

17

4

Kildare

13

7

10

2

19

2

15

3

13

0

Kilkenny

14

3

15

0

11

0

11

0

9

1

Laois

5

1

5

2

6

0

4

0

2

1

Leitrim

4

0

4

2

5

2

2

1

3

1

Limerick

28

4

15

1

22

8

20

4

20

5

Longford

3

0

6

0

2

2

2

0

3

2

Louth

11

2

7

0

10

4

13

3

8

4

Mayo

13

4

15

2

16

2

9

1

8

3

Meath

10

1

17

2

13

6

11

0

20

4

Monaghan

10

1

2

0

4

0

8

0

7

1

Offaly

16

2

11

1

11

0

6

1

8

4

Roscommon

5

1

4

1

4

0

2

1

1

0

Sligo

3

0

8

2

3

1

6

1

8

2

Tipperary

16

4

19

4

19

3

21

5

12

5

Waterford

10

2

15

2

8

4

6

2

12

4

Westmeath

6

3

8

1

6

0

5

1

6

1

Wexford

20

3

17

2

15

2

20

3

10

1

Wicklow

6

3

7

2

13

2

10

1

10

2

Ireland

395

91

429

90

387

91

358

86

356

101

*Provisional figures based on year of registration.

Source: Central Statistics Office

Drugs Payment Scheme.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

275 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow has received a bill from a pharmacy. [32846/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Staff.

Marian Harkin

Question:

276 Ms Harkin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding the employment of surgical oncologists here. [32850/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Accommodation.

James Breen

Question:

277 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Clare in a nursing home will be transferred to St. Joseph’s in Ennis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32851/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Housing Aid for the Elderly.

James Breen

Question:

278 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare has not been offered sheltered accommodation in order to allow them a degree of being able to live independently; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32885/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Finian McGrath

Question:

279 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32889/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Question No. 280 answered with QuestionNo. 263.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Jimmy Devins

Question:

281 Dr. Devins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Sligo will be called to Beaumont Hospital, Dublin for an operation. [32891/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Pat Breen

Question:

282 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason extra hours regarding home help have not been allocated to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32892/05]

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 HSE to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

283 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the funds which are available to community-based not-for-profit organisations seeking to purchase automatic external defibrillators; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32912/05]

In September 2004 a national task force on sudden cardiac death was established to address the problem of sudden cardiac death in Ireland. The task force, chaired by Dr. Brian Maurer, will make recommendations on the prevention of sudden cardiac death and on the detection of those at high risk. It will also advise on equipment and training programmes to improve the outcome in those suffering from sudden cardiac collapse and on the establishment of appropriate surveillance systems.

I understand that the task force has been involved in widespread consultation with individuals and organisations and that a report will be published shortly. Funding will be provided through the Health Service Executive to support the implementation of the task force's recommendations.

Richard Bruton

Question:

284 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of inpatient admissions to date in 2005 and for the same period in 2004. [32916/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

285 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of inpatient procedures to date in 2005 and for the same period in 2004. [32917/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

286 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of accident and emergency attendances to date in 2005 and for the same period in 2004. [32918/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

287 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of day case admissions to date in 2005 and for the same period in 2004. [32919/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 284 to 287, inclusive, together.

Data on the number of inpatient admissions, day cases and accident and emergency attendances relating to publicly funded acute hospitals for the period January to August 2004 and 2005 are provided in the following table. Information on inpatient procedures is available from the hospital inpatient inquiry, HIPE, system which gives details of activity in all publicly funded acute hospitals in the state as well as in two private hospitals. Comprehensive data for 2005 are not yet available. The HIPE system shows that in 2004 1,546,235 inpatient procedures were carried out. This figure covers all inpatient procedures including minor diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. More than one procedure may be carried out per hospital stay.

Publicly Funded Acute Hospitals: Summary Activity Data, January to August 2004 and 2005

January to August

2004

2005

In-Patient Admissions

380,437

378,646

Day Cases

322,114

326,324

A&E Attendances

832,713

837,505

Note: All figures are provisional.

Source: Integrated Management Returns, Department of Health and Children.

Richard Bruton

Question:

288 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the cost of standard case mix in 2004 for day surgery and inpatient surgery. [32920/05]

Separate national base prices for surgery only cases are not produced as all patient types, surgical, medical and other, are encompassed within the national case mix programme. The present case mix classification system categorises patients into 665 surgical, medical and other diagnosis related groups, or DRGs. What is termed the case mix adjusted base price for inpatients and day cases is the average cost of a case nationally when all national data, collected in the 37 hospitals that participate in the programme, for all 665 DRGs, surgical, medical and other, have been aggregated for all patients in the programme. This is the cost of treating a standard case with a complexity of one.

Data regarding 2003 activity and costs are €540 and €3,644 respectively. These figures have already been released to the Deputy. Data regarding 2004 are being audited, as part of the annual case mix budget adjustments which will form part of the 2006 financial allocations, and will be available in early January.

Medical Cards.

Richard Bruton

Question:

289 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of patients with medical cards in 2004 and to date in 2005; and the number of these which are in respect of persons aged 70 or over at each date. [32921/05]

The number of persons with a medical card in December 2004 was 1,148,914 and the number of persons with a medical card in October 2005 was 1,149,418. The number of persons aged over 70 with a medical card in December 2004 was 316,928 and the number of persons over 70 with a medical card in October 2005 was 325,654.

Health Service Staff.

Richard Bruton

Question:

290 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number employed in the health services in 2004 and to date in 2005 and for the same period in 2004; the way in which that has grown since 1997; the way in which these numbers are distributed between programmes, general hospital, long-stay facilities, disability, mental health, community health, doctors, nurses, paramedics and so on and administrative back-up. [32922/05]

Employment information is collected by my Department every quarter on the basis of grade and employing agency and does not include any data on a programme by programme basis as requested by the Deputy. However, employment growth in each of the grade categories of health service staff on the basis of employing authority that is, the Health Service Executive, intellectual disability services and voluntary hospitals, is as set out in the following table for the period requested by the Deputy.

The latest available data are in respect of the end of June 2005. Between 1997 and that date, there was an increase in the level of employment of 33,093, or 48.78%, excluding home helps, in whole-time equivalent terms. In this context, comparing employment levels in June 2005 with those in December 1997, there were 43.89%, or 2,177 more medical and dental personnel,127.8%, or 7,588 more health and social care professionals and 27.6%, or 7,545 more nurses employed in the health services in whole-time equivalent terms. Caution should be exercised in comparing employment growth between grade categories, however, owing to some changes in their composition over the period. Almost two thirds of health services personnel formally classified as management or administrative are involved in direct service provision to the public.

Hospital Services.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

291 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her proposals to move the ear, nose and throat department at Kerry General Hospital to a Cork hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32934/05

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 have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Bernard Allen

Question:

292 Mr. Allen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork has been told that they will have to wait until October 2007 to get a mammogram at the South Infirmary Victoria Hospital, Cork. [32935/05]

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 these matters investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Michael Ring

Question:

293 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the average waiting list for adults and children from each county in the Health Service Executive western area to see an ear, nose and throat specialist. [32952/05]

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.

Community Care.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

294 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if elderly returning emigrants requiring nursing care, and seeking this care in a community nursing unit here, will be assessed for subvention where they live currently rather than having to wait until they return here to be assessed by the authorities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32953/05]

Jerry Cowley

Question:

295 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if elderly returning emigrants requiring nursing care, and seeking this care in the private nursing home sector here, will have their medical needs assessed by a consultant geriatrician in the country where they are living rather than having to wait until they return here to have their medical needs assessed by a consultant geriatrician; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32954/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 294 and 295 together.

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.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

296 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in sanctioning phase 3c and 3d of the redevelopment at Naas General Hospital; when tenders will be invited for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32955/05]

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.

Health Service Staff.

Jack Wall

Question:

297 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of occupational therapists employed by the Health Service Executive in the Kildare and west Wicklow area; if the stated occupational therapists are available to children attending mainstream education that need such treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32956/05]

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.

Jack Wall

Question:

298 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of orthodontic specialists employed in the Kildare and west Wicklow areas of the Health Service Executive; if this number is compatible with the allocated number of specialists for this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32957/05]

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.

Health Services.

Jack Wall

Question:

299 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the timescale predicted to erode the waiting list for orthodontic treatment with the Kildare and west Wicklow section of the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32958/05]

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.

Ambulance Service.

Seán Haughey

Question:

300 Mr. Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans for a national ambulance service; the way in which the operation of the Dublin Fire Brigade fits into these plans; if a central control room, additional ambulances, additional premises and additional staff will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32978/05]

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.

Health Services.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

301 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason music therapy is not profiled in her Department’s consolidated salary scales booklet thereby leaving it unable to feature as a listed profession in service delivery and thus ensuring there is no system to enable services to appoint music therapists; if she will make a statement on the response by the Health Service Executive to Question No. 286 of 25 October 2005. [32979/05]

The purpose of the consolidated pay scales issued by my Department is to show the nationally approved pay scales for recognised grades within the public health service. The appointment of Health Service Executive staff and their terms and conditions are matters for the executive itself in the first instance in the overall context of the provisions of the Health Act 2004 and national policies on public sector pay and employment. The establishment of new grades within the public health service, including the grade of music therapist, is also a human resource management matter for the Health Service Executive which must have regard to service requirements, the extent to which the service concerned can be provided by existing staff or professions and the distinct qualifications required. My Department is writing to the Health Service Executive to clarify the position.

Nursing Home Subventions.

Beverley Flynn

Question:

302 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the recent decision of the Health Service Executive to discontinue the payment of enhanced discretionary subventions to qualifying patients in private nursing homes in the west region; and the reason enhanced subvention has been discontinued in the west since 18 October 2005. [32980/05

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.

Accident and Emergency Services.

Seán Haughey

Question:

303 Mr. Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans to improve and expand physically the accident and emergency department in Beaumont Hospital; if other physical changes to the hospital in general are envisaged; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32989/05]

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.

Health Service Staff.

Michael Lowry

Question:

304 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of new specialist graduates in orthodontics that will be assigned to County Tipperary and the mid-west region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32990/05]

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.

Health Services.

Michael Lowry

Question:

305 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of children under treatment in the mid-west region and in each other regional orthodontic department; if she will work with the Health Service Executive on this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32991/05]

The Deputy's question, regarding the number of children under orthodontic treatment, 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 aim of my Department is to develop the treatment capacity of orthodontics in a sustainable way over the long term. My Department continues to work with the Health Service Executive to achieve this aim.

Hospital Services.

Michael Lowry

Question:

306 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary with a medical card is being charged for hospital services; if she will work with the Health Service Executive to ensure that this person is not charged; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32992/05]

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.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

307 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons with disabilities she has appointed to State boards under the aegis of her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33014/05]

The process by which a person is appointed to a State board reflects the conditions for appointment laid down in the relevant statutory instrument establishing the board. When making such appointments, I must have due regard to the nature of the work of the board and the consequent requirement for any appointee to hold the necessary skills and expertise required to discharge the functions of that particular board. My Department does not hold personal information on members of State boards under its aegis, including whether or not a person has a disability.

Medical Aids and Appliances.

Denis Naughten

Question:

308 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will be furnished with a hearing aid; the reason for the ongoing delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33030/05]

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.

Health Services.

Denis Naughten

Question:

309 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to correspondence (details supplied), if she will furnish a response to the query raised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33031/05]

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.

Vaccination Programme.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

310 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 280 of 2 November 2005, her views on whether the Health Service Executive leaflet on the influenza vaccine is misleading as it indicated that the vaccine is free to all persons in the at-risk groups when this is effectively only the case for medical card holders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33034/05]

I am satisfied that the Health Service Executive materials are not misleading. For instance, the public poster, Anyone can catch the flu!, clearly states:

Over 65s and younger people with chronic diseases are especially vulnerable. The vaccine is free to these groups. GPs charge a consultation fee to those without a medical card.

The leaflet with frequently asked questions states that the vaccine is free to all persons over 65 and those in the younger "at risk" groups with a chronic disease and that family doctors charge a consultation fee to patients not covered by a medical card.

This information is correct. As stated in my reply to Question No. 280 of 2 November 2005, the influenza vaccine is available free of charge from general practitioners to medical cardholders who are deemed to be "at risk" of serious illness as a result of contracting the disease. Persons in the "at risk" group who do not have a medical card can obtain the vaccine free of charge, however, the fee for administering the vaccine in such cases is a matter between the general practitioner and the patient.

Medical Cards.

John Deasy

Question:

311 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the new general practitioner visit cards will be distributed on a first come, first served basis or a pro rata basis throughout the Health Service Executive regions; if the money allocated for the scheme will be sufficient for the take up by the public; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33256/05]

Applications for GP visit cards are assessed by the Health Service Executive, HSE, with reference to the national income assessment guidelines which I have established in agreement with the executive. The Deputy will be aware that I have made a number of changes to enable a greater number of people, particularly families with children, to qualify for these cards. All persons assessed as qualifying for a GP visit card will be issued with such a card.

In January 2005, I increased the income guidelines used in the assessment of medical card applications by 7.5%. In June, it was apparent that the effect of rising income in our successful economy meant that the expectation that 30,000 additional medical cards would be issued was unlikely to be fulfilled. At that time I simplified the means test for both medical cards and GP visit cards. It is now based on an applicant's and spouse's income after income tax and PRSI, and takes account of reasonable expenses incurred in respect of rent or mortgage payments, child care and travel to work. This is much fairer to applicants. On 13 October 2005, I announced that the income guidelines for both medical cards and GP visit cards would be increased by an additional 20%. This means that income guidelines are now 29% higher than this time last year. My Department and the HSE will actively encourage people to apply for these benefits and continue to monitor the number of cards issued.

Hospital Staff.

Niall Blaney

Question:

312 Mr. Blaney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views regarding the appointment of a consultant neurologist for the north-west region; if the extension of the service being provided in Galway will be investigated by providing an additional consultant neurologist to cover northern counties such as Donegal, Leitrim and Sligo to prevent patients having to travel to Dublin or Galway to see a neurologist; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33267/05]

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 will request the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Site Acquisitions.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

313 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance if an agreement has been reached for the purchase of the necessary access route to the rear of a Garda station (details supplied) in County Cork; if so, the refurbishment programme proposed for the Garda station and the estimated timeframe. [32406/05]

The Commissioners of Public Works are continuing with negotiations on the proposed acquisition of a strip of ground to the rear of the Garda station in Dunmanway with the vendor. When negotiations and legal matters relating to the acquisition have been concluded, the commissioners will proceed with the refurbishment to the Garda station in Dunmanway, County Cork.

Until such time as these matters are concluded by both parties a timeframe for the refurbishment programme cannot be given. The commissioners are continuing to treat this matter with the urgency it has been given by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and are progressing the matter with priority.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

314 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance the steps taken by the property management section of the Office of Public Works to secure a site for the new national school for Kill in the past 12 months. [32488/05]

The Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland act as agents for the Department of Education and Science in the acquisition of sites for primary schools. The commissioners have publicly advertised for expressions of interest from landowners, had a meeting with the local authority and are in correspondence with that body at present with a view to identify a suitable site for the school in Kill.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

315 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance if he has received the technical assessment report on the site for the new national school for Ardclough; if he will sanction purchase of the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32492/05]

The Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland act as agents for the Department of Education and Science in the acquisition of sites for primary schools. Negotiations are currently ongoing for the acquisition of a site for a new national school for Ardclough.

Architectural Heritage.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

316 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance the further works planned for Castletown House, Celbridge, County Kildare, in addition to the improved perimeter security and structural strengthening of the main staircase and landing; if he intends to carry out work at the entrance to Castletown from Main Street, Celbridge; and if the restoration of the obelisk at Barrogstown, Maynooth, will be included in these further works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32503/05]

Plans for future works at Castletown, including improved access, are largely contingent on developments involving land acquisition which are still under review. Proposals regarding the entrance from Celbridge are still under consideration at present. No major works are planned for the obelisk.

Site Acquisitions.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

317 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on the provision of a site for a probation and welfare service centre in Dublin 15; and if a site has been identified. [32642/05]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

318 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if every effort is made to expedite the fit-out of probation and welfare service offices in Dublin 15, in view of the fact that this service has already been delayed by three years. [32643/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 317 and 318 together.

It is understood that the probation and welfare service has identified a suitable site for a service centre in the Dublin 15 area. The probation and welfare service is currently in discussion with Fingal County Council with a view to acquiring the site.

Office accommodation has also been identified by the OPW to meet the requirements of the probation and welfare service. A technical report on the offices is expected shortly. When office accommodation has been acquired the fit-out will be carried out as quickly as possible.

Tax Code.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

319 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the amount in revenue VAT receipts collected in the city of Dublin for 2004. [32691/05]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the net VAT receipts collected for 2004 in respect of businesses managed and controlled in the geographical area covering Dublin city centre, the south city, the north city, south county, Fingal and Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown was €3,342 million.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

320 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the amount collected in stamp duty for the city of Dublin in 2004. [32692/05]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that statistics on stamp duty transactions are not compiled by reference to the address of the property purchased and, accordingly, it is not possible to provide the information requested.

Departmental Properties.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

321 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the steps he proposes to take for the sale of a property (details supplied) in Dublin 4 which is no longer required for the purposes which it was first purchased by the State; if the method of sale will be by auction or public tender; the timeframe within which it is intended to put the property up for sale; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32827/05]

Broc House, Nutley Lane, is being transferred to the affordable housing initiative at present and will not be placed on the market for sale.

Tax Code.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

322 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Finance his plans to modify the exemption scheme for writers and artists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32863/05]

As the Deputy will be aware, in budget 2005, I announced that my Department, in conjunction with the Revenue Commissioners, would undertake this year a detailed review of certain tax incentive schemes and tax exemptions, including the artists' exemption scheme. This review is almost complete.

With regard to plans that I may be considering to modify the scheme, I would refer the Deputy to the long-standing practice of Ministers for Finance not to comment on what may or may not be contained in upcoming budgets. I do not intend to depart from that approach.

National Anthem.

Finian McGrath

Question:

323 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance when the national anthem composed by Peadar Kearney in 1907 will be reclaimed and the correct words (details supplied) will be inserted at all public and State occasions. [32906/05]

My Department holds the copyright in the national anthem. The principal reasons for holding the copyright are to ensure that it is freely available, to prescribe that performance fees are not to be charged or collected in respect of the use of the national anthem, and to ensure that it is not used in an inappropriate context and without due deference, such as to render it an object of scorn or derision. I am satisfied that the current version of the national anthem is the appropriate and correct interpretation of the words as composed by Peadar Kearney.

Departmental Correspondence.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

324 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the meetings or correspondence which have taken place with promoters of a private hospital in Dundalk. [32385/05]

Neither I nor the relevant officials in my Department are aware of any such meeting or correspondence.

Inland Fisheries.

John McGuinness

Question:

325 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance if the consultants involved in the design of the Lacken Weir, County Kilkenny, have accepted that there is a design fault in the weir and fish pass; if he will clarify the person who is to pay for the extra work carried out to date in 2005 and the underpinning which is required on the weir; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32394/05]

The questions which have arisen in relation to Lacken Weir have been raised with the consultants in question. The OPW will seek to recover all costs relating to the remedial measures required at Lacken Weir. I would be pre-empting due process in expanding further on these issues at this time.

National Monuments.

Enda Kenny

Question:

326 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Finance the amount allocated for work in 2005 in relation to having the Great Blasket Island declared a national monument or park; the works specified for implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32395/05]

Three structures on the Great Blasket Island are designated national monuments, namely, the houses of Tomás Ó Críomhtháin, Muírís Ó Suilleabháin and Peig Sayers, while 12 other sites of archaeological interest are listed in the record of monuments and places, all protected under the National Monuments Acts.

It is not intended at this juncture to designate the whole island a national monument nor is it intended to seek national park status for the island. A Government decision has approved an overall provision of €8.5 million for implementation of the proposals contained in the management plan for the island, including: purchase of lands and property; provision of piers on both the island and mainland at Dún Chaoin; conservation of the core conservation area; administration; and consultancy. To date, a total of €711,000 has been spent on the overall project.

Inland Fisheries.

John McGuinness

Question:

327 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance the cost of the timber fabricated piece fitted to the fish pass at Lacken Weir, County Kilkenny; the labour and other costs related to this work; the cost of the concrete extension fitted to the same fish pass in summer 2005; the labour and other costs related to this work; the cost of installing a second fish pass during summer 2005 on the same weir; the name of the consultants involved in this work and their cost; the number of quotations obtained and from whom in relation to the plan to observe the fish pass on camera; when this work is likely to be carried out; if a short-term solution will be implemented to enable salmon to pass this weir; the person or body responsible for providing a long-term solution to the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32402/05]

The timber fabricated piece fitted to the fish pass at Lacken Weir, County Kilkenny, was purchased and installed by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and the Southern Regional Fisheries Board, SRFB. The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources has confirmed the cost of fabrication of the wooden structure as €7,350.30. Labour and other costs related to this work amounted to €12,115.88. As the timber extension was a temporary measure, the extension and timber baffles have been recovered and may be reused. The work to fit a concrete extension to the denil fish pass and the installation of a second fish pass during summer 2005 were carried out as a single operation. The total costs were as follows:

Denil Pass

Groyne Pass

Item Cost

(€)

Item Cost

(€)

Labour

12,242.04

Labour

24,484.09

Materials

5,459.30

Materials

10,918.60

Plant Hire

3,486.54

Plant Hire

3,486.54

Total

21,187.88

Total

38,889.23

There was no requirement for consultancy services in the carrying out of this work. Any plans to introduce fish cameras at Lacken Weir is a matter for the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.

The second, groyne, fish pass installed during summer 2005 has been inspected recently following reports of salmon mortalities in its vicinity. The SRFB have informed the OPW that the groyne pass is not operating at optimum capacity during low flows and have identified a requirement for a minor adjustment to the rock armour.

Since the remediation works were carried out there has been no evidence of a hold up of salmon at Lacken Weir and fish have been seen ascending both the denil pass and the groyne pass. It is regrettable that inaccuracies in recent newspaper reports on the subject in both national and regional papers may have lead members of the public to believe otherwise. A press statement has been issued to the papers concerned detailing the facts. A copy of this statement is available on request from my office to anybody interested in the facts in this matter.

Decentralisation Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

328 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the office space occupied by public services activities listed for decentralisation as early movers; its location and floor area; if it is owned or leased; and if it is planned to dispose of the space post decentralisation in each case. [32421/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

329 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the size of the office space planned in each of the decentralised locations designated as early movers; the site area being acquired and the estimated cost of the site and of the building where this is available. [32422/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 328 and 329 together.

The office space occupied by public service activities in Dublin which have been designated as early movers is in the region of 90,000 square metres. This comprises State owned space and leased space. The question of which vacated buildings will be disposed of is under consideration. Ultimately, any decisions on disposals will depend on a range of factors, including the following: The particular requirements of the Departments remaining in Dublin; the specific circumstances associated with each building, including location, quality and design, tenure, office area and whether it is leasehold or freehold; the timing of property sales are directly affected by prevailing market conditions; and the timing of the relocation of staff to decentralised offices. The area of space which will be acquired in decentralisation locations will be broadly equivalent to the space being vacated in Dublin. The cost of acquiring sites-properties for the early moving Departments is estimated to be in the region of €47 million, excluding VAT.

Although property solutions will include leasing and fitting out of existing buildings, it is anticipated that, in the majority of cases, the accommodation facilities will be provided by the construction of new office buildings and cost estimation can be approached on this basis. However, in advance of actual market testing of any procurement methodology, it is possible, at this time, only to assign the most general measurements of cost to such a large scale, diverse and complex programme.

Current OPW cost norms in respect of standard office accommodation would indicate an average build-cost to fit-out standard, in the range of €1,800 to €2,200 per square metre in suburban-rural locations. Such figures exclude VAT, professional fees, inflation and site-works. In addition, the cost of equipping the accommodation to standard office equipment levels could be estimated at circa €4,000 per person. This would exclude the cost of information and technology and specialised equipment requirements.

Such general measures of cost do not include specialised facility and equipment requirements and other variables, which would arise from the spread of possible procurement methodologies. It should be noted that general cost indicators of this type are subject to change over time.

Richard Bruton

Question:

330 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the disposals of property in Dublin which have occurred under the decentralisation programme to date in; the revenue they have yielded; and the activity relocated to facilitate the disposal in each case. [32423/05]

There is no property disposed of in Dublin to date in 2005 as a direct consequence of decentralisation. The following properties have been disposed of in accordance with the transforming of State assets programme.

Property Disposed

Sale Price

€million

Lad Lane, Dublin 2.

22.5

72-76 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2.

52.3

14-16 Lord Edward Street, Dublin 8.

8.78

St. John’s Road (Westgate).

44.9

The following properties are currently on the market to be disposed before the end of 2005,26-27 Eden Quay, Dublin 1 and the former Veterinary College, Shelbourne Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.

Special Areas of Conservation.

Enda Kenny

Question:

331 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Finance if a copy of the draft management plan for the Great Blasket Island will be laid in the library of Dáil Éireann; the members of the Great Blasket management group; the location and extent of rights of way of the Great Blasket Island; if all visitors to the Great Blasket Island have the right to walk such rights of way; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32424/05]

It is not proposed to lay the management plan in the library of Dáil Éireann. I will, however, forward a copy to the Deputy for his perusal.

The membership of the new local management committee has not yet been finalised. Roads and pathways on the island are currently in the ownership of the landowners but it is intended that when the lands are acquired, the Office of Public Works will be responsible for their maintenance and use by visitors to the island. Overall access to the island will be limited initially to a maximum of 400 visitors per day in the interests of conserving its unique heritage.

Tax Code.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

332 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the criteria he may consider in proposals to alter the balance between direct and indirect taxation for budget 2006 and in any proposals to change rates of indirect and direct taxation for budget 2006. [32443/05]

As Deputies are aware, it is a long-standing practice of the Minister for Finance not to comment in advance of the budget on possible budget decisions.

Tax Collection.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

333 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the amount of tax generated by stamp duty at each of the current levels for the years 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and to-date; and the amount expected to be collected by the end of 2005 and in 2006 if rates remain the same. [32444/05]

I understand the Deputy is seeking a breakdown of stamp duty yield, in each of the years referred to, according to the main available stamp duty categories, and furthermore in the case of residential property, a breakdown of yield according to the various stamp duty rates that applied in each year.

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that information is not available to provide a breakdown of the residential stamp duty yield appropriate to each rate in each year. However, the following table shows the Revenue Commissioners' net yield from stamp duties by category in each of the years 1998 to 2004 and in the nine month period to the end of September 2005.

Category

1998

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005 end Sep.

€m

€m

€m

€m

€m

€m

€m

€m

Residential Property

213

263

282

265

349

528

752

672

Non-Residential Property

174

288

392

406

317

547

709

760

Stocks & Shares

161

226

231

346

303

256

261

227

Companies Capital Duty

38

19

49

76

28

21

24

15

Financial Cards, Cheques, etc.

34

37

42

45

48

100

112

113

Bank Levy*

103

103

Insurance & Misc. Items

67

79

94

85

95

110

109

80

Total**

687

913

1,090

1,223

1,139

1,664

2,070

1,867

* The Bank Levy for 2005 is at present being processed.

** Any apparent discrepancies in the totals are due to rounding of constituent figures.

The total net receipt from stamp duties was €2,180 million in the ten months to 31 October 2005. A breakdown by category of this end-October total is not yet available. In the remaining two months of 2005, additional stamp duties in excess of €300 million are profiled for collection in accordance with the monthly profile of expected tax revenue receipts published by my Department in January last. As regards a forecast for stamp duty yield for 2006, this will be published, as usual, in my budget speech next month.

I also understand the Deputy is seeking information on the various rates of stamp duty for residential property applicable since 1998. The following table shows the rates applicable to second-hand residential property during the period requested by the Deputy:

Date

Bands

First-time Owner-occupiers

Other Owner-occupiers

Investors

%

%

%

2/12/04 to date

Up to 127,000

Nil

Nil

Nil

127,001-190,500

Nil

3

3

190,501-254,000

Nil

4

4

254,001-317,500

Nil

5

5

317,501-381,000

3

6

6

381,001-635,000

6

7.5

7.5

Over 635,000

9

9

9

1/1/02 to 1/12/04

Up to 127,000

Nil

Nil

Nil

127,001-190,500

Nil

3

3

(Conversion to Euro. No change in rates.)

190,501-254,000

3

4

4

254,001-317,500

3.75

5

5

317,501-381,000

4.5

6

6

381,001-635,000

7.5

7.5

7.5

Over 635,000

9

9

9

£

6/12/01 to 31/12/01

Up to 100,000

Nil

Nil

Nil

100,001-150,000

Nil

3

3

150,001-200,000

3

4

4

200,001-250,000

3.75

5

5

250,001-300,000

4.5

6

6

300,001-500,000

7.5

7.5

7.5

Over 500,000

9

9

9

27/1/01-5/12/01*

Up to 100,000

Nil

Nil

3

100,001-150,000

Nil

3

3

150,001-200,000

3

4

4

200,001-250,000

3.75

5

5

250,001-300,000

4.5

6

6

300,001-500,000

7.5

7.5

7.5

Over 500,000

9

9

9

15/6/00-26/1/01

Up to 100,000

Nil

Nil

9

100,001-150,000

Nil

3

9

15,001-200,000

3

4

9

200,001-250,000

3.75

5

9

250,001-300,000

4.5

6

9

300,001-500,000

7.5

7.5

9

Over 500,000

9

9

9

23/4/98-14/6/00

Up to 60,000

Nil

Nil

Nil

60,001-100,000

3

3

3

100,001-170,000

4

4

4

170,001-250,000

5

5

5

250,001-500,000

7

7

7

Over 500,000

9

9

9

* For the period 27 January 2001 to 5 December 2001 the investors column as shown, applied to new houses only. For investors of second-hand houses the rate was 9.

The stamp duty provisions with regard to new residential property have not changed since April 1998. All purchasers of new residential property, who are owner-occupiers, are exempt from stamp duty where the floor size of the property concerned is less than 125 square metres. Where the floor size of new properties is 125 square metres or greater, stamp duty is charged on the site value at the current rates applying to second-hand residential properties, as outlined above, or on 25% of the value of the property, excluding VAT, whichever is the greater. In the case of investors of new residential property, stamp duty is charged on the sale value of the property at the current rates applying to second-hand residential property, as already outlined, regardless of the floor size of the property.

Irish Language.

John Deasy

Question:

334 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Finance the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32470/05]

The main area of expenditure on the Irish language in my Department is through Gaeleagras na Seirbhíse Poiblí. Gaeleagras was established in the Department in 1971 with the general aim of promoting the Irish language throughout the Civil Service. Gaeleagras continues to make a significant contribution to the promotion and development of the use of Irish in the Civil Service including supporting the implementation of the Official Languages Act 2003.

The allocation to Gaelagreas in the years 2002, 2003 and 2004 was as follows:

2002

Total allocation €188,000 of which

Training: €117,485.49

Translation: €6,223.47

Advertising: €3,641.96

2003

Total allocation €234,000 of which

Training: €217,517.60

Translation: €16,300.90

Advertising: €181.50

2004

Total allocation €238,000 of which

Training: €233,864.57

Translation: €2,762.08

Advertising: €1,373.35

Outside Gaeleagreas, expenditure by the Department on providing services through the Irish language was of the order of €9,233 on advertising in 2003 and €20,000 on external translation, €21,700 on advertising and €3,000 on printing services in 2004.

Garda Stations.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

335 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works is in a position to seek planning permission for the new Leixlip Garda station in County Kildare; and when construction will commence. [32494/05]

The Commissioners of Public Works are awaiting approval from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to the revised sketch scheme for Leixlip Garda station. On receipt of approval planning permission will be sought under the part 9 planning process.

It is expected that the construction work on the new station will commence in 2006.

Schools Refurbishment.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

336 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance if he has received the full report in respect of the replacement of asbestos roof at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare and when work will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32497/05]

An outline scheme to replace the asbestos based roof at the above school has been prepared by the consulting architects commissioned to design and oversee the project. A full report, including budget costs, is expected next week.

Work will commence as soon as possible on completion of the various processes involved, including planning and tendering, but at this stage it is not possible to give a precise starting date. In the meantime the OPW is making arrangements to have temporary repairs carried out to the leaking areas. This work is due to commence in two weeks.

Flood Relief.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

337 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance when the Commissioners of Public Works will examine the proposed flood relief works in Leixlip, County Kildare, submitted by Kildare County Council. [32501/05]

The report submitted by Kildare County Council on proposed flood relief works for Leixlip, County Kildare, is currently being examined by my officials in the Office of Public Works.

No decision can be made in relation to the progression of works until the contents of this report have been fully assessed.

State Property.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

338 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 535 of 28 September 2005, if there has been a successful conclusion to the acquisition of the lands. [32506/05]

The acquisition of the lands referred to is still under review.

Tax Code.

John Perry

Question:

339 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Finance his plans to abolish VAT for first time home buying couples or parents in Counties Sligo and Leitrim; his further plans to provide extra tax relief following the birth of a child; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32537/05]

The position is that the VAT rating of goods and services is subject to the requirements of EU VAT law with which Irish VAT law must comply. Under the sixth VAT directive, member states may retain the zero rates on goods and services which were in place on 1 January 1991, but cannot extend the zero rate to other goods and services. As the supply of property was not subject to the zero rate on 1 January 1991, it is not possible to apply the zero rate to this item. In addition, the VAT rate that applies to a particular good or service is determined by the nature of the good or service, and not by the location of the customer. There is no provision in EU VAT law that would allow for the abolition of VAT for first time buyers.

In regard to the question of providing extra tax relief following the birth of a child, I would remind the Deputy of the long-standing practice of Ministers for Finance not to comment on what may or may not be contained in upcoming budgets. I do not intend to depart from that approach.

Richard Bruton

Question:

340 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance his estimate of the payments into pension schemes in 2002 on which tax relief is made; and the average rate of tax relief applying to the different category of contributor. [32560/05]

As I pointed out in my replies to recent parliamentary questions tabled by the Deputy on this topic, the estimated figures in respect of employee and employer contributions to occupational pensions are only available in aggregate form on a tentative basis.

Subject to those limitations, and using some data obtained from the Pensions Board, the estimated cost of €563 million for tax relief on employee contributions in respect of the income tax year 2002, the latest available, was derived by applying an overall average marginal rate of tax to an approximate overall contribution base of €1,942 million.

As regards employer contributions to employee occupational pension funds, using the estimated level of employee contributions as a basis and making certain assumptions as to both the total amount of employer contributions and the proportion of those contributions made by tax liable companies at the standard rate of corporation tax, which was 16% in 2002, and at the relieved rate of 10%, an approximate overall contribution base of €4,600 million and €623 million cost in tax forgone for 2002 were estimated.

Richard Bruton

Question:

341 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the income within superannuation schemes on which tax relief is provided distinguishing the type of income in the funds and the exemptions from tax they enjoyed in 2002 which underpin the estimate of €1,270 in cost of relief. [32561/05]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the basis for existing estimated figures of the net income of approved superannuation funds, contributions plus investment income less pension outgoings, is aggregated data estimated on a very tentative basis.

Using estimates of the value of assets held by Irish pension funds provided by the Irish Association of Pension Funds, making certain assumptions as to the value of both the investment income and pension outgoings of superannuation funds and also taking into account the available estimates for employee and employer contributions to occupational pensions, the base value of the net income of the funds is estimated at close on €6,360 million. The estimated cost of almost €1,272 million for the cost of tax exemption in 2002 is based on the assumed application of the standard rate of income tax to this base value.

Richard Bruton

Question:

342 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the distribution of the 111,000 persons who claimed retirement annuity relief from taxation across the income distribution bands showing for each band the amount of annuities paid, the tax relief and the numbers involved. [32562/05]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the relevant information available is in respect of income tax relief allowed for contributions to retirement annuity contracts for the income tax year 2002, which are available to the self-employed and to employees not in occupational pension schemes. A distribution by income ranges of the number of cases, amount of deduction and reduction in tax for tax relief for retirement annuity contracts is contained in the following table:

Income Tax 2002.

Retirement Annuity — by range of Gross Income.

Range of Gross Income

Totals

From

To

Number of Cases

Amount of Deduction

Reduction in Tax

8,000

1,104

1,668,187

65,117

8,000

10,000

782

972,729

81,988

10,000

12,000

1,193

1,589,499

204,706

12,000

15,000

2,431

3,514,708

488,079

15,000

17,000

2,106

3,251,485

473,272

17,000

20,000

4,038

6,408,719

1,112,526

20,000

25,000

8,383

14,298,071

2,687,469

25,000

27,000

3,744

6,952,234

1,337,486

27,000

30,000

5,418

10,893,744

2,303,061

30,000

35,000

9,102

20,096,209

5,344,285

35,000

40,000

8,279

20,525,222

5,822,644

40,000

50,000

14,272

41,715,802

13,005,037

50,000

60,000

10,704

38,759,631

12,326,301

60,000

75,000

10,813

50,972,861

19,348,102

75,000

100,000

8,951

64,460,807

26,519,145

100,000

150,000

6,465

81,306,400

33,956,016

150,000

200,000

2,887

59,810,379

25,067,825

Over

200,000

5,043

213,071,374

89,412,527

Total

105,715

640,268,061

239,557,585

The figures for the total number of cases and the total reduction in tax shown in this table are lower than those indicated in the table supplied with the reply I gave to Question No. 162 on 27 October because the figures now being provided represent approximately 95% of all income tax returns expected for 2002, while the figures supplied on 27 October were, in accordance with normal practice, grossed up at aggregate level to adjust for this 5% incompleteness.

Departmental Bodies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

343 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the membership of his Department’s audit committee; the chairperson and the number of occasions on which it has met in the past 12 months and the agenda of the meetings. [32564/05]

The membership of the audit committee of the Department of Finance is: Mr. Michael Flynn, chairperson, head of internal audit, Health Service Executive; Mr. Peter Crilly, director of audit, Bank of Scotland (Ireland) Limited; Ms Anne Vaughan, principal officer, Department of Social and Family Affairs; Mr. Aidan Dunning, assistant secretary, Department of Finance; and Ms Judith Brady, principal officer, Department of Finance.

The audit committee meets quarterly and in the past 12 months met in December 2004, March, June and October 2005. The agenda of the meetings covered: minutes of previous meetings; internal audit unit staffing, reports and work programme; ERDF financial control unit staffing, reports and work programme; risk management; audit committee role and responsibilities; presentations and meetings relevant to work of the committee; and any other business.

Pension Provisions.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

344 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the companies and financial institutions in which the Government has invested as part of the national pensions reserve fund including the amounts invested in each company or financial institution; the business conducted by each of the companies in which the State has invested; and if companies located here or elsewhere in which the State has invested as part of the national pensions reserve fund have any element of public ownership. [32580/05]

The investment of the national pensions reserve fund is a matter for the National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission, under the provisions of the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000. The commission's annual report and financial statement for 2004 includes a table setting out the details of the fund's portfolio of investments at 31 December 2004. The report does not provide details of the business conducted by the companies in which the fund has invested or on whether there is any element of state ownership of such companies.

Decentralisation Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

345 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the assessment of the financial implications of decentralisation which have been carried out and in particular, if the financial implications of the cost of training and additional staff during the on the job training period; the cost of new recruitment to meet gaps in suitable applicants for the decentralised location; the cost of additional promotions to fill the positions required; if the cost of delays in redeploying officials who opt not to move with their post and cost of retraining and redeployment have been identified in respect of the proposed moves (details supplied). [32597/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

346 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if the audit committee of his Department or its agencies have reviewed the risk management assessment of the proposed decentralisation proposals (details supplied); if it has approved the assessment or made any recommendations for revising the risk assessment or changing the proposed risk mitigation strategies. [32605/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 345 and 346 together.

In accordance with the requirements set out in the June 2005 progress report of the decentralisation implementation group each of the organisations not previously identified as "early mover" organisations, including the organisation to which the Deputy refers, are now in the process of preparing a deeper iteration of their original decentralisation implementation plans. This more detailed plan will include a financial assessment of the transition costs that can be expected to arise during the decentralisation process in respect of knowledge retention and training as well as possible promotion and recruitment. Once completed the plan will be available for examination by that organisation's internal audit committee and will also be assessed by the decentralisation implementation group.

A number of options will be explored by the organisation in question in order to effectively manage these potential transition costs and these may include: drawing on capacity from within the organisation which ordinarily would have been available to do other projects and activities; streamlining the provision of other services to release resources to support decentralisation; use of temporary resources; use of overtime; alteration of timescales in other areas; and use of external resources.

State Companies.

Bernard Allen

Question:

347 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Finance the dividends received from the ESB, Bord Gáis, VHI and all other semi-State companies on an annual basis since 1990 to date. [32618/05]

The total amounts paid to the Exchequer in the form of dividends from State companies between 1990 and to date are as set out in the following table:

1990

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

Aer Lingus

3,200

ICC Bank

1,826

Irish Life Assurance

598

Telecom Éireann

38,092

Total

43,716

1991

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ICC Bank

2,282

Irish Life Assurance

438

Telecom Éireann

52,059

Total

54,779

1992

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

Aer Lingus

635

ICC Bank

2,282

Irish Life Assurance

10,836

Telecom Éireann

52,059

ACC Bank

808

Arramara Teoranta

10

Greencore

3,134

Housing Finance Agency

6,349

Total

76,113

1993

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ICC Bank

2,586

Irish Life Assurance

4,943

Telecom Éireann

12,697

ACC Bank

1,615

Arramara Teoranta

10

Greencore

1,613

Total

23,464

1994

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ICC Bank

3,044

Irish Life Assurance

5,341

Telecom Éireann

22,855

ACC Bank

2,100

Arramara Teoranta

5

Total

33,345

1995

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ICC Bank

3,044

Irish Life Assurance

4,099

ACC Bank

2,489

Arramara Teoranta

5

Total

9,637

1996

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ICC Bank

3,195

Telecom Éireann

12,697

ACC Bank

3,124

Arramara Teoranta

5

Housing Finance Agency

4,888

Total

23,909

1997

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ICC Bank

3,195

Telecom Éireann

12,837

ACC Bank

4,224

Housing Finance Agency

3,911

Total

24,167

1998

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ACC Bank

4,880

Arramara Teoranta

5

Housing Finance Agency

3,812

ICC Bank

3,579

Telecom Éireann

46,822

Total

59,098

1999

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ACC Bank

5,393

Bord Gáis Éireann

13,967

Housing Finance Agency

4,520

ICC Bank

4,974

Telecom Éireann

34,984

Total

63,838

2000

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ACC Bank

2,981

Bord Gáis Éireann

13,967

Irish Aviation Authority

1,249

Total

18,197

2001

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

Bord Gáis Éireann

50,580

Irish Aviation Authority

1,161

Total

51,741

2002

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

ACC Bank

2,537

Bord Gáis Éireann

21,735

Electricity Supply Board

19,000

Irish Aviation Authority

1,071

Total

44,343

2003

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

Aer Rianta

7,245

Bord Gáis Éireann

9,796

Electricity Supply Board

18,719

Irish Aviation Authority

1,000

Total

36,760

2004

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

Aer Rianta

6,074

Bord Gáis Éireann

9,679

Irish Aviation Authority

1,271

Electricity Supply Board

63,762

Total

80,786

2005 (to date)

Company

Dividend Payments Received by the Exchequer (€000)

Bord Gáis Éireann

10,093

Electricity Supply Board

73,543

Total

83,636

Public Finances.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

348 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which his Department is responsible for the promotion and application of value for money policy across Departments; the actions being taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32666/05]

The Department of Finance by virtue of having overall responsibility for the management of the public finances, has responsibility for managing the allocation of resources as approved by Government at a global level and putting in place a policy framework for securing value for money by line Departments and their implementing agencies in the delivery of public services. Primary responsibility for managing programmes, projects and services and securing value for money from them within that budgetary and policy framework rests with line Departments and their implementing agencies.

On foot of its value for money policy framework role, the Department of Finance has set out general guidance and rules across a range of areas to assist Departments and implementing agencies. These include rules and guidance in public procurement, public private partnerships, and appraisal and management of capital programmes. The Department of Finance has also overseen a number of reforms designed to assist the better management of programmes and projects. These include three-year administrative budget agreements and a five-year capital investment framework, extended to ten years in the case of the recently launched Transport 21 programme.

Building on initiatives already in place, the Government recently announced an initiative on management of ICT projects and consultancies. On 20 October 2005 I also announced the introduction of additional measures to secure better value for money.

The management of ICT projects and consultancy initiative provides, among other things, for: the immediate introduction of a peer review process for major ICT projects; Ministers reviewing in the context of the 2006 Estimates the financial provisions for consultancy and their Departments confirming that the expenditure is necessary and the Department of Finance's guidelines in this regard are being applied; and a review by the Department of Finance of existing guidelines for the engagement of consultants.

The additional measures for better value for money which I announced on 20 October provide for: full acceptance of the need to improve value for money and to ensure that every euro is well spent; fixed price lump-sum contracts becoming the norm for public contracts; ex ante evaluations, including economic cost-benefit appraisal, for all projects above €30 million; for large projects over €30 million, there will be formalised contracts review by the Departments concerned with reports to their Ministers and with provision for audit by the Department of Finance; there should be no extension of large service contracts without tendering if the extension is more than 50% of the original contract or exceeds €250,000, whichever is the lower; more vigorous competition for public sector contracts; additional specialised training for the Civil Service and State agencies; open recruitment of a number of full-time specialists to the public sector on IT procurement and capital project evaluation and management; secondment of IT procurement specialists between the public and private sectors; allocation of single individual responsibility for all major IT and capital projects; better use of compulsory purchase orders; and performance table for Departments and State agencies regarding the extent of project outcomes versus budgets on contracts.

I am determined that these initiatives will be fully implemented in Departments and implementing agencies and I have instructed the Department of Finance to engage with other Departments accordingly.

Garda Stations.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

349 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the renovation and refurbishment of the living quarters of Oylegate Garda station, Oylegate, Enniscorthy, County Wexford; when works will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32886/05]

The Commissioners of Public Works invited tenders for the mechanical and electrical element of the project and these were returned on 28 October 2005. The engineer is assessing the tenders and a recommendation to appoint the sub-contractors is due today, 8 November. It is the intention of the Commissioners of Public Works to immediately place the main contract and discuss commencement dates with the contractors. It is envisaged that the works at Oylegate Garda station will begin within a couple of weeks.

Budget Submissions.

Dan Boyle

Question:

350 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Finance his views on the proposals contained in CORI’s recent policy paper on taxation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32970/05]

I have received a pre-budget submission from the organisation concerned and I have met it as part of the community and voluntary pillar, one of a series of meetings held in advance of the budget. The contents of the pre-budget submission will be considered in the context of the forthcoming budget and Finance Bill. It would not be appropriate for me to comment in advance of the budget on possible budget decisions.

Tax Code.

Gerard Murphy

Question:

351 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork is having difficulty in taxing his car here. [32987/05]

I have been informed by the Revenue Commissioners that based on the information provided they have been unable to identify the person concerned from their VRT records. However, should the Deputy wish to provide any additional information, the Revenue Commissioners will arrange, if necessary, for a further search to be undertaken. If the Deputy's query relates to motor tax, then it would be a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

Departmental Staff.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

352 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the total and yearly number of persons who, since 1997, have worked in units to deal with public private partnerships; the cost of the unit in each year since 1997; the number of public presentations which have been given in each year since 1997; and the associated cost. [32988/05]

The public private partnership unit in my Department has been in place since 1999. The information requested is set out in the following table:

1999

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

No. of staff in Unit 1

4.67

6.0

9.25

8.67

8.55

6.45

7.55

The number of staff is expressed in terms of whole time equivalent numbers, as the staffing composition during the course of any particular year would vary in terms of both the number of people and the period of time for which staff worked in the unit.

The framework for public private partnerships, agreed with the relevant social partners under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness in 2001, provided for the central PPP policy unit in the Department of Finance to lead a communications and awareness strategy. Key actions under the strategy, which was agreed with the relevant social partners in 2002, included a series of nationwide seminars involving the social partners. Seminars were held in Cork, Waterford, Athlone, Galway, Limerick, Sligo and Dublin between December 2001 and June 2003. The purpose of the seminars was to inform business, union and local government interests and the public about the framework for public private partnerships and about the PPP process generally. Direct expenditure associated with these public presentations amounted to €36,578.73 between 2001 and 2003.

In addition to these seminars, there were individual seminars for the construction industry, chambers of commerce, local authorities, etc. It was not possible in the time available to compile all the information including costs sought by the Deputy. I have arranged that my officials will forward these details to the Deputy in the coming days.

Tax Code.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

353 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Finance the number of farmers who have benefited to date from the decision in budget 2005 to allow relief on stamp duty where farmers swapped land to consolidate their farm holdings; his views on whether the proposed structure is too limited and should be available to any farmer who can prove that he has sold off an out-farm to buy an adjacent holding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33006/05]

As the Deputy will be aware, in the 2005 budget I announced a special one-off stamp duty relief relating to an exchange of farm land between two farmers for the purposes of consolidating each farmer's holding. This new relief means that no stamp duty will be charged on an exchange of such lands where the lands are of equal value. In a case where the lands exchanged are not of equal value, stamp duty will only be charged on the amount of the difference in the value of the lands concerned. The details are contained in section 121 of the Finance Act 2005. The scheme began on 1 July 2005.

I am advised by the Department of Agriculture and Food that Teagasc has indicated that farm consolidations certificates are currently being processed for 12 individuals, six sets, but since it began on 1 July 2005 they have had queries from 70 people with potential to benefit from the existing scheme. I am also informed by the Revenue Commissioners that, as the scheme was only recently introduced, the numbers of claims in respect of the relief received to date by them have been insignificant.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

354 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the current flat rate VAT refund of 4.8% is an adequate refund to farmers in view of the drop in product prices resulting from the decoupling and the continuing increase in the cost of farm inputs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33008/05]

The position is that the calculation of the farmers' flat rate is governed by EU VAT law and is based on the relevant macro-economic data for the farming sector for the preceding three years. The purpose of the flat rate addition is to compensate unregistered farmers for VAT which they incur on their business inputs. The flat rate addition is not there to provide any form of income support to farmers or to compensate for increases in wages or costs generally.

The flat rate refund for unregistered farmers is examined every year in the lead up to the budget. It is not customary for me to comment on any possible changes to the existing rate which may arise in the context of the forthcoming budget.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

355 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33015/05]

Appointments to statutory boards under the aegis of my Department are in the first instance subject to the relevant legislation governing the establishment of the board. In considering a person's suitability for appointment to such boards I must satisfy myself they have the necessary skills and expertise to discharge the functions of that particular board. Information is not held concerning the disability status of people appointed to State boards under the aegis of my Department.

Tribunals of Inquiry.

Joe Walsh

Question:

356 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Finance the costs to date for each of the sitting tribunals, including third party costs; the costs for each legal team and the costs for each member of each legal team. [33094/05]

The costs of the sitting tribunals are met by the following Votes:

Tribunals

Votes

Moriarty

Taoiseach’s

Mahon

Environment, Heritage and Local Government

Morris

Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Barr

Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Smithwick

Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Questions relating to the costs of the individual tribunals should be appropriately directed to those Departments.

For the convenience of the Deputy the information available to my Department relating to costs for sitting tribunals to end-August 2005 is set out in the following table.

Tribunal

Admin Costs

State Legal Costs

3rd Party Costs

Total Costs

€m

€m

€m

€m

Moriarty Tribunal of Inquiry into Payments to Messrs. Haughey and Lowry (est. Sept. 1997)

5.23

15.8

21.03

Mahon Tribunal of Inquiry into Certain Planning Matters and Payments (est. Nov. 1997)

16.219

26.838

0.037

43.094

Morris Tribunal of Inquiry into certain Garda activities in Donegal (est. Mar. 2002)

9.57

10.185

19.755

Barr Tribunal of Inquiry into the Facts and Circumstances Surrounding the Fatal Shooting of John Carthy at Abbeylara, County Longford (est. Apr. 2002)

2.633

5.324

7.957

Smithwick Tribunal of Inquiry into the fatal shootings of RUC Chief Superintendent Harry Breen and Superintendent Robert Buchanan (est. May 2005)

0.023

0.023

Total

33.652

58.17

0.037

91.859

With the exception of the €37,000 shown under the Mahon tribunal to end August, third party costs remain to be determined by the tribunals. It is expected that these costs will be substantial.

Information on the costs for each member of each legal team is not held by my Department. Information on the costs of the tribunal legal teams is held by the relevant Departments, as indicated.

Tax Code.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

357 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider extending the duty exemption on biofuels; and when such an expansion of the current system might be introduced. [27831/05]

Policy in respect of the promotion or development of biofuels is primarily a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. However, I acknowledge that tax can play a role in the promotion of biofuels and in this regard the Deputy is aware that there is the current duty exemption scheme for pilot projects in the biofuels area. The number of applications made for relief from excise duty under the pilot scheme clearly indicates that there is a strong interest in developing a biofuels industry in Ireland. As the Deputy is aware, it is a long-standing practice of the Minister for Finance not to comment in advance of the budget on possible budget decisions.

Harbours and Piers.

John Perry

Question:

358 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the situation regarding the investigation surrounding the harbour in Killybegs; when a final report on the issue will be released; when the matter will be formally finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32882/05]

I assume the Deputy is referring to allegations made about illegal fishing. When this matter was brought to my attention, I arranged to have the matter formally referred to the Garda Síochána with a request for an investigation.

I understand that the Garda Síochána is conducting an investigation into the matter. That investigation is solely a matter for the Garda and I have no role in it. As the timeframe and conduct of the investigation are matters solely for the Garda, I consider that it would be inappropriate for me to comment further or make a statement on the matter.

Ferry Services.

Enda Kenny

Question:

359 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of vessels licensed to carry passengers to the Great Blasket Island from Dingle and from Dún Chaoin; the names and specifications of each vessel; the arrangement that exists for ferrying passengers to the island on weekdays and weekends; the numbers carried by each passenger vessel from August 2004 to August 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32399/05]

The number of vessels licensed to carry passengers to the Great Blasket Island from Dingle and from Dún Chaoin is as shown in the following table. There are a total of 25 vessels, both passenger ships and passenger boats. My Department has no involvement with the arrangements and schedules that exist for ferrying passengers to and from the island, nor does it have details of the actual numbers carried by each vessel.

All of the vessels listed in table A are class VI passenger ships and are only permitted to operate during daylight, in summer, in fine weather and within defined distances and-or specific geographic limits. Certificates for all class VI passenger ships are issued annually in accordance with the relevant Merchant Shipping Acts and cover the period from 1 April until 31 October each year. The maximum number of passengers that each vessel is permitted to carry is also shown in table A and is specified on its passenger certificate.

All of the vessels listed in table B hold a valid passenger boat licence in accordance with the relevant Merchant Shipping Acts. The maximum number of passengers that any passenger boat may carry is twelve or such lesser number as is specified in the licence. The particular number for each individual boat is determined following a survey by my Department. Generally passenger boats are issued with a two-year licence and are not subject to seasonal restrictions like class VI ships but operate within defined distances and or specific geographic limits.

Table A. Class VI Vessels

Name of Vessel

Class of Vessel

Maximum Number of Passengers

1.

An t’Oileánach Glic

VI

40

2.

Oileán na nÓg

VI

40

3.

Mám an Óraigh

VI

35

4.

Dingle Bay

VI

47

5.

Laird of Staffa

VI

46

6.

Blasket Princess

VI

44

7.

Cailín Óir

VI

47

8.

Lady Laura

VI

47

Table B. Passenger Boats.

Name of Vessel

Class of Vessel

Maximum Number of Passengers

1.

Steren An Mor

P5

12

2.

Sáimhím Sógh

P5

12

3.

Peig Sayers

P3

12

4.

Oileán Na nÓg

P5

12

5.

Mám An Óraigh

P5

12

6.

Loch an Iasc

P5

12

7.

LMD1

P6

12

8.

Lantern II

P5

12

9.

Lady Laura

P5

12

10.

Lady Avalon II

P5

12

11.

Dingle Bay

P5

12

12.

Cailín Óir

P5

12

13.

Boy Colm

P3

12

14.

An t’Oileánach Glic

P5

12

15.

Kinnard

P2

8

16.

Blasket Princess III

P2

8

17.

Blasket Princess II

P2

8

Telecommunications Services.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

360 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if any initiatives are being planned with regard to the MANS network and other similar backhaul infrastructures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32439/05]

In phase 1 of the metropolitan area networks, MANs, programme, 19 networks were completed and handed over to e-Net, the company that holds the services concession contract to manage, maintain and market the MANs. A further seven MANs are nearing completion.

In phase 2 of the MANs programme, 90 towns with a population of 1,500 and above have been identified as lacking an adequate broadband provision by the private sector, and MANs will be built in each of these in association with the local and regional authorities during 2006 and 2007. Detailed discussions are currently under way with the planning and engineering divisions of the local authorities.

My Department continually reviews all aspects of the MANs programme, including the provision of backhaul for the MANs.

Fishing Industry Development.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

361 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the objectives of the Government in the forthcoming negotiations under the EU Common Fisheries Policy. [32440/05]

I assume the Deputy is referring to the Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers which will take place in December and decide on the total allowable catches, TACs, and quotas and associated conditions for fish stocks for 2006.

The priority for Ireland at this Council will be to achieve a balanced outcome that will provide for a sustainable future for the Irish fishing industry. The need to take effective conservation measures in order that fish stocks are managed and exploited on a sustainable basis is an over-riding imperative for both the Government and the Irish fishing industry. Within that context, the primary aim will be to ensure that Irish fishermen all around the coast will have available to them the maximum possible quantity and range of fishing possibilities in 2006 that can be justified on a sustainable basis.

In so far as Ireland is concerned, this means the setting of catch limits for Irish fishermen in respect of some 40 fish stocks, mainly in western waters around Ireland's coast, as well as effort limitation measures for certain gears in certain waters.

The European Commission will come forward with a proposal for 2006 in the next few weeks which will take into account the scientific advice recently given by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea, ICES. I will maintain close contact with industry representatives throughout these negotiations with regard to securing sustainable fishing opportunities for Irish fishermen.

Telecommunications Services.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

362 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the measures he is currently taking to stimulate public demand for broadband technology. [32441/05]

The Deputy will be aware that the provision of telecommunications, 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. Those companies compete with each other for business, and promote their products by way of advertising, special offers, etc.

In addition the Government believes that access to ICT is an essential enabler of economic growth and social inclusion, and a number of initiatives are being pursued that are pushing the broadband agenda, including the metropolitan area networks, the broadband for schools project and the county and group broadband schemes, which are helping to bring broadband connectivity to all regions, and helping to encourage a far greater interest in broadband usage.

Following the success of the Intel computer clubhouses in Dublin's Liberties and Blanchardstown, which are aimed primarily at young school leavers aged ten to 18 who have not completed the senior cycle, funding has been made available from the e-inclusion fund for a pilot mobile computer clubhouse project. The 24-week pilot project, which is being overseen by my Department, uses two vehicles that have been specially adapted for use as mobile computer classrooms. A programme of visits is being set out, in association with local community groups, voluntary bodies and area partnerships, to bring the mobile computer clubhouses to areas that have been identified as having a lower level of computer and internet penetration. Considerable interest is being shown in the project, and it is hoped that further funding can be sourced to enable the project to be extended.

The mobile computer clubhouse will serve the needs of persons of all age groups who desire access to broadband and computing, but who lack the means to access it. The pilot scheme is being used to determine the areas of greatest need, and to develop a curriculum that best serves those needs. My Department is also developing an advertising campaign that will advise and inform the public on broadband usage and ICT generally.

Port Development.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

363 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the steps he is taking to improve port infrastructure here and if sufficient port capacity will be available from 2007. [32442/05]

In January 2005, I launched the Government's ports policy statement. The policy statement aims to better equip the port sector and its stakeholders to meet national and regional capacity and service needs. One of the key challenges that lies ahead is the provision of adequate in-time port capacity, particularly for unitised trade. The policy statement sets out a framework to ensure that capacity needs are identified, planned and progressed in a co-ordinated manner.

As an initial step in this process, the Department consulted with the commercial ports handling unitised trade to determine their view of port capacity and how they intended to deal with the projected capacity requirement. In addition, the Department recently appointed Fisher Associates to, inter alia, advise on evaluating the projects submitted by the commercial ports with a view to the Department’s recommendations to Government.

As an initial step in their assignment, I understand that Fisher Associates is currently consulting with ports and other key stakeholders with regard to the criteria to be used for project evaluation.

The purpose of this process is to satisfy the Government that the anticipated capacity requirement to 2014 and beyond can be efficiently and adequately met through the successful advancement and implementation by the port sector of some combination of the key projects referred to above, which have been the subject of an independent and expert evaluation.

The Government expects that the market itself should decide which projects or combination of projects are completed. Direct Government intervention would only arise if the market were found wanting in that regard and some level of State aid was considered essential in order to meet the national capacity requirement.

Irish Language.

John Deasy

Question:

364 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32471/05]

The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the following table:

Year

Total Expenditure

Training

Translation

Advertising

Bilingual Signage

Other

2002

4,309 (est.)

1,331

2,978 (est.)

2003

697 (est.)

480

17

200 (est.)

2004

28,439 (est.)

18,744

8,276

200 (est.)

1,219*

*Printing costs associated with Irish translation.

Departmental Administration.

Richard Bruton

Question:

365 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the membership of his Department’s audit committee; the chairperson and the number of occasions on which it has met in the past twelve months and the agenda of the meetings. [32569/05]

The Department has had an audit committee, chaired by an external member, since July 1999. There are three other external members and three internal staff members, including the chief engineer and two assistant principal officers, on the committee. The committee was established under a written charter dated and signed by the Secretary General and the Assistant Secretary General, who was the chair of the committee at that time, in February 2003. The committee meets five times per annum and presents a formal report to the Secretary General on the business of the committee each year. The following table gives details of the current membership of the audit committee:

Membership of the Audit Committee 2005

Professional & Academic Qualifications

Dr. Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, Chairperson of the Audit Committee Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Studies & Irish Life Senior Lecturer in Accounting at DCU

B.Comm (NUI), DPA (NUI), PhD (Leeds), FCA

Ms Siobhán Fay Hibernian General Insurance

Current executive manager in Hibernian General Insurance. Previously worked as head of internal audit for Hibernian Group plc and as audit director in KPMG’s financial services division. Qualifications include BA (in Accounting & Finance), ACA and MBA.

Mr. Brian Duffy Head of Internal Audit Dept of Social & Family Affairs

1. A B.Comm (Hons) from UCD. (Bachelor of Commerce) 2. Qualified Chartered Accountant FCA. 3. Affiliate Memberships of the Institute of Internal Auditors.

Mr. James Casey Ryan Casey & Co. Certified Public Accountants & Registered Auditors

Qualified Chartered Accountant, FCA

Mr. Bill Morrissey Assistant Principal Officer Broadcasting Policy Division

FCCA — Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants

Mr. John King Assistant Principal Officer Corporate Governance Unit

BA (UCD) Archaeology/Classics 1983 Diploma in Legal Studies (DIT) 1991 Diploma in Personnel Management (IPA/IMI)

Ms Fiona Kilcullen

A.C.M.A. Head of Internal Audit, Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment

Dr. Gerard Farrell Chief Engineer

PhD in Engineering

Members of the internal audit unit attend audit committee meetings to give detailed background information that is requested from time to time by the members of the committee on various issues. The audit committee has met on four occasions so far in 2005, on Thursday, 3 March; on Monday, 30 May; on Thursday, 23 June; and on Thursday, 13 October. It is expected that the committee will meet once more before the end of the year, on 2 December next.

The agenda for the departmental audit committee meeting held on Thursday, 3 March at 2.30 p.m. was (1) the adoption of the minutes of the previous meeting and any matters arising; (2) a presentation by the assistant secretary, Dr. Cecil Beamish; (3) risk assessment; (4) the draft audit plan for 2005; (5) the implementation of the Mullarkey report; (6) the presentation of the training audit and audit of carryover scheme reports for discussion; and (7) any other business — the network for internal auditors in State sponsored bodies.

The agenda for the departmental audit committee meeting held on Monday, 30 May at 2.30 p.m. was (1) the adoption of the minutes of the previous meeting and any matters arising; (2) risk assessment; (3) the audit plan for 2005; (4) the presentation of the ICT audit, helicopter audit and fleet renewal audit reports for discussion; (5) the report to the Secretary General on the enhancements to financial control procedures; and (6) any other business — the IPA/IAA SSB internal audit network, the inaugural meeting of which took place on 23 March.

The agenda for the departmental audit committee meeting held on Thursday, 23 June at 2.30 p.m. was (1) the adoption of the minutes of the previous meeting and any matters arising; (2) risk assessment; (3) the presentation of the ICT audit, fleet renewal audit, marathon, 5% Údarás na Gaeltachta, aquaculture and miscellaneous reports for discussion; and (4) the report to the EU Commission on EU Structural Funds.

The agenda for the departmental audit committee meeting held on Thursday, 13 October at 2.30 p.m. was (1) the adoption of the minutes of the previous meeting and any matters arising; (2) risk assessment; (3) the presentation of the miscellaneous audit, sustainable energy review, Killybegs review, training review, foreshore review and aquaculture review reports for discussion; and (4) the Article 13 report to the EU Commission on EU Structural Funds expenditure for 2004.

I will now set out the charter, terms of reference and role of the audit committee of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. The audit committee is part of the ongoing systematic review of the Department's business control and corporate governance procedures. It considers the adequacy of the control framework within the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and organisations under its aegis. The role of the audit committee is to advise on matters relating to the operations and development of the internal audit function; to ensure that the annual audit plan complies with the stated role of internal audit in respect of national and EU funding, to oversee the business control and risk management environment, and to advise on the relationship with external audit and other relevant consultancies. The audit committee is not responsible for any executive function and is not vested with any executive powers. The audit committee consists of a chair and not less than four ordinary members who are appointed by the Secretary General by virtue of their experience in fields of expertise relevant to the committee's functions. Appointments to the committee are normally, unless otherwise decided by the Secretary General, for a period of three years and do not exceed a period of five years.

The duties of the audit committee are to consider the draft annual internal audit plan; to monitor the implementation of the plan; to protect the independence of the Department's internal audit function; to review the significant findings and recommendations of the internal audit unit; to monitor the action taken by management to resolve any issues which are identified; to monitor the performance of the Department's internal audit function; to approve a charter for internal audit that clearly defines its mission, authority, roles, responsibilities and other reporting relationships; to ask for special reports from the internal audit function as considered appropriate; to advise and make recommendations to the Secretary General and the management committee on matters pertaining to the Department's internal audit function that the committee considers necessary or appropriate including its effectiveness, organisation, resources, training and use of technology; to communicate with the Secretary General and the management committee on any significant shortfalls in the business control and-or risk management environments which come to the attention of and are of concern to the audit committee; to consider the findings and comments of the Comptroller and Auditor General in his annual report on the appropriation account and his other reports; to consider and where appropriate advise on the procedures and policies used in the preparation of the annual appropriation account; to consider any reports from the European Court of Auditors or the European Commission about co-financed expenditures within the Department; and to review any value-for-money reports which are undertaken by the internal audit division or any other division in the Department.

Not less than four meetings of the audit committee take place in each calendar year. A quorum of five members, with no less than two external members, is required for each meeting. If a vote is required on any issue, a simple majority of all the members present, including the chair, will carry the motion, with the chair having a casting vote in the event of a tie. The head of internal audit and such other officials from the Department as the committee may require shall attend committee meetings. The minutes of the meetings shall be approved by the chair and circulated as early as possible after the meeting to members of the audit committee and the Secretary General. Within three months of the end of each calendar year, the committee formally reports in writing to the Secretary General, outlining its activities during the year and such advice and recommendations as it may deem appropriate. The committee exercises an advisory role in relation to its duties and functions within the Department.

The audit committee may, following agreement with the Department, obtain outside legal or other independent professional advice and secure the attendance at committee meetings of outside interests with relevant experience and expertise, if it considers it necessary. The committee is independent in the performance of its duties. The committee and its members are not subject to the direction of any person in the performance of their duties. The members of the committee are fully briefed and kept up to date on any significant matters relating to their role and duties. The committee has the right of access to the Secretary General. The charter may be amended or updated in joint consultation between the Secretary General and the committee.

Decentralisation Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

366 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the assessment of the financial implications of decentralisation which have been carried out and in particular, if the financial implications of the cost of training and additional staff during the on the job training in period; the cost of new recruitment to meet gaps in suitable applicants for the decentralised location; the cost of additional promotions to fill the positions required; if the cost of delays in redeploying staff which opt not to move with their post and cost of retraining and redeployment have been identified in respect of the proposed moves (details supplied). [32602/05]

The Department has conducted a preliminary assessment of the possible costs associated with decentralisation, in terms of one-off costs over the period of relocation and ongoing annual costs after relocation. Further comprehensive analysis is under way to underpin fully quantified estimates of the costs. The Deputy also asked about the cost of implementing strategies to address the issues raised by decentralisation. The Department's knowledge management initiative, ICT strategy and training and development strategies predate the decentralisation programme. Those initiatives, which have been synchronised with the decentralisation programme as major planks of the Department's risk mitigation plans, have not yet resulted in material additional expenditure over and above that already planned for the initiatives. Transfer activity to fill posts for all three decentralisation locations is under way. While recruitment costs are matters for the Public Appointments Service and the Department of Finance in the first instance, I advise the Deputy that no recruitment need has yet been identified in the context of decentralisation and no similar promotion requirement has been identified to date.

Richard Bruton

Question:

367 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the audit committee of his Department or its agencies have reviewed the risk management assessment of the proposed decentralisation proposals (details supplied); if it has approved the assessment or made any recommendations for revising the risk assessment or changing the proposed risk mitigation strategies. [32610/05]

As part of its normal business, the Department's audit committee reviews the risk assessment and mitigation strategies across the entire Department, including the risks associated with decentralisation. The committee, at a meeting in June 2004, considered that the decentralisation process was potentially the most serious risk identified to date, because of the potential loss of corporate knowledge to the Department. The committee advised that the risk would have to be managed carefully. Subsequent to that meeting, the Department presented its decentralisation plan, which highlights the major risks and mitigating strategies associated with decentralisation.

Fisheries Protection.

Dan Neville

Question:

368 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position regarding the case for cessation of drift netting for salmon. [32668/05]

While an abundance of salmon continues to return to Irish rivers, the Government has accepted the scientific advice that reductions in the overall fishing effort are required to sustain and rebuild salmon stocks nationwide. Therefore, the Government's policy has been designed to bring spawning escapement up to the scientifically advised conservation limits as soon as possible. In keeping with this policy, when I set the commercial salmon quotas for the 2005 season, I gave a firm commitment to align fully the exploitation of salmon at national and district levels with the scientific advice by 2007. To that end, I have asked the National Salmon Commission to advise on how best the alignment of exploitation of salmon with the scientific advice can be implemented by 2007, bearing in mind the requirement to ensure the future biological viability of the salmon resource in all catchments and the needs of all stakeholders, including those who derive their living from the wild salmon resource. I assure the Deputy that I will examine carefully all recommendations in this regard, including those relevant to drift netting within the Irish fishery, made by the National Salmon Commission.

Electricity Generation.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

369 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the proposals he has in regard to the promotion of tide-driven hydroelectric generators; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32687/05]

Sustainable Energy Ireland, which was established as a statutory agency in May 2002, implements initiatives on renewable energy, including research, on behalf of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. The agency's renewable energy research, development and demonstration programme aims to stimulate the deployment of renewable energy technologies which are close to market and to assess and develop potentially successful technologies. The programme provides support for renewable energy product renewable energy research, development and demonstration, market demonstration of new technologies, resource studies and public good research activities.

The term "ocean energy" is generally used to refer to energy from wave energy and tidal energy resources. When considering tidal energy, two categories of tide driven hydro power are available. The first type of device is referred to as a tidal barrage, whereby the tidal water is stored behind a dam and released as the tide height reduces similar to a hydroelectric power plant. This form of tidal power requires large areas of enclosed water with large tidal variations. Tidal flows into most Irish estuaries or bays do not yield particularly high tidal variations and this form of renewable energy is considered to be an expensive form of renewable energy for Ireland. The second type of tidal power device is referred to as a marine current turbine whereby an underwater device is placed in the path of the tidal current to generate power. This type of technology is currently under development and commercial devices are not yet available.

Sustainable Energy Ireland and the Marine Institute commissioned a resource study covering the whole island to investigate Ireland's potential to use this technology. The results of the study indicated a considerable tidal energy resource based on the estimated performance of the best technology currently under development. To maximise the use of tidal power, it is important to ensure it can be integrated effectively with the electricity network. Sustainable Energy Ireland is funding a project with UCD and Queens University Belfast to examine the impact the distribution and phasing of tidal power will have on this country's electricity network. Sustainable Energy Ireland and the Marine Institute are working in co-operation to develop ocean energy technology in Ireland. Capital grant funding is available from the agencies for technology developers of wave and tidal energy devices. Funding has been provided to third level research facilities in Ireland.

Energy Resources.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

370 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the proposals he has regarding promotion of ethanol production as a renewal and environmentally friendly fuel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32688/05]

The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources is responsible for the promotion and development of renewable energy including biofuels. I am committed to the development and promotion of a biofuels sector in Ireland's transport fuel market, which will contribute to emissions reductions and overall security of supply. In 2004, the Department secured an amendment to the Finance Act 1999, which provides for the introduction of a scheme for mineral oil tax relief for biofuels. A scheme under the Act, which was agreed between the Department and the Department of Finance, was launched in April 2005. Some 34 applications were received under the call for proposals by the closing date, of which two were in the bioethanol category. The proposals were evaluated by the Department and Sustainable Energy Ireland and recommendations were made to the Minister for Finance. Eight projects were awarded excise relief under the scheme including one bioethanol project. Excise relief of €6 million will be allowed for the projects over the two-year period to 2007. It is anticipated that the project will result in 16 million litres of biofuels replacing imports on the Irish transport market over that period. The scheme is an initial measure designed to stimulate market development.

Under Sustainable Energy Ireland's renewable energy research, development and demonstration programme, capital grant aid is also available for biofuels market demonstration projects in the pure plant oil, biodiesel and bioethanol categories. Funding of almost €250,000 has been awarded to support modifications of the engines of up to 100 vehicles and to provide plant and monitoring equipment. An interdepartmental biofuels group was established in 2004 to consider policy options for the development of the biofuels market and to consider the options from the perspectives of the sectors or interests represented by each Department. It comprises representatives from the Departments of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Finance, Transport and Agriculture and Food, as well as Sustainable Energy Ireland. As part of its work, the group commissioned a liquid biofuels strategy study for Ireland, which was published by Sustainable Energy Ireland in December 2004. The report examines the full range of options and potential supports for liquid biofuels development in Ireland, including bioethanol and biodiesel. The number of applications in the pilot scheme clearly indicates the strong interest in developing a biofuels industry in Ireland. I have been in contact with the Minister for Finance about the possible scope for increasing fiscal support for biofuels bearing in mind competitiveness issues in the sector as a whole. Further measures to increase market penetration over a longer timeframe are also being considered in consultation with all the relevant Departments.

Irish Ferries.

Simon Coveney

Question:

371 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if Irish Ferries looked for permission from him to change its flag from that of a national flag; and if so, his response to same. [32873/05]

The Department has received applications from Irish Ferries Limited and Irish Continental Line Limited to be allowed to remove three ships from the Irish Ship Register for the purpose of putting them on the Cypriot Ship Register. The applications have not been acceded to on the grounds that the companies have not provided information that would allow their applications to be granted. It is open to the companies to revert to the Department in respect of the matter.

National Seabed Survey.

John Perry

Question:

372 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount of Government funding that the national seabed survey will receive in 2006; the funding the survey will receive over the coming years; if the team behind the survey will be given the time they want to finish the project in view of the huge progress which has so far been made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32877/05]

The geological survey unit of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources has agreed a joint programme of work with the Marine Institute. The programme, Integrated Mapping for the Sustainable Development of Ireland's Marine Resource, or INFOMAR, will be a successor to the Irish national seabed survey. A memorandum for Government has been circulated to Departments for comment. It is hoped to refer the memorandum to the Government shortly. The INFOMAR programme is a 20-year programme but Government funding will be sought for an initial three-year period, 2006-08, with a review in 2008. The level of funding for 2006 and subsequent years has yet to be finalised.

Fishing Fleet Protection.

John Perry

Question:

373 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of boats which have applied to withdraw permanently from the demersal and shellfish sectors of the Irish fishing fleet; if applications are above the amount able to be compensated; the way in which this will be decided; the boats which are accepted into the scheme; and the way in which levels of compensation will be decided on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32879/05]

Bord Iascaigh Mhara, the implementing authority for the fishing vessel decommissioning scheme, has advised me that 64 applications were received before the scheme's closing date of 5 p.m. on Tuesday, 1 November 2005. The total amount of grant aid applied for in this tranche is approximately €30 million, which is less than the €45 million the Government has committed for the scheme. BIM will check the eligibility of the applicants in the coming days and weeks. Eligible applications will be scored and prioritised by a committee consisting of representatives of the Department, BIM, the regional assemblies and a representative from another Department or semi-State body. The committee will award points in respect of each eligible vessel in accordance with published selection criteria, which are the vessel's age, gross tonnage, average number of days fished during the two 12-month periods from 30 June 2003 to 30 June 2005 and total landings of pressure stocks as a percentage of total average catch over the same 12-month periods. Priority will be given in order of highest to lowest score. The scales and rates of grant payable to successful applicants are those provided for in Council Regulation (EC) No 2792/1999 except in the case of vessels in the scallop fleet where the rates are those shown less 15% in every case.

Fisheries Protection.

John Perry

Question:

374 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the situation regarding the weir at Lacken Bridge in Kilkenny City; the number of fish which have died to date in 2005 as a result of the faulty fish pass; the reason action was not taken before to remedy the problem at the weir in view of the fact that 1,000 salmon died as a direct result of the faulty fish pass in December 2004 and January 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32880/05]

I have previously advised the House that the works carried out on the weir at Lacken Bridge on the River Nore in Kilkenny city were undertaken on behalf of, and are therefore the responsibility of, the Office of Public Works. Earlier this year, I became aware of difficulties arising from the works when I was advised by Deputy McGuinness, who recently gave me some DVD footage, and the Southern Regional Fisheries Board that some salmon encountered difficulties migrating to the spawning grounds during an eight-day period at the start of January 2005 when water levels throughout the catchment area, specifically at Lacken Weir in Kilkenny, were low. I have been assured by the chief executive officer of the board that reports of 1,000 fish dying as a result of the difficulties were grossly exaggerated and that there was no evidence to substantiate such claims. The CEO has advised me that the board's staff, who closely monitored the situation at that time, found evidence of no more than 25 salmon casualties as a result of the difficulties identified at the weir in early 2005. Since then, the board and the engineering division of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, having considered a report provided by Deputy McGuinness, have provided technical expertise to address the problem. I understand from the CEO of the board that his staff, in co-operation with the engineers in the Department and the OPW, worked during low water in the summer months to install remedial measures at the fish pass to ameliorate the situation and to ensure improvement for the passage of fish up the river.

Despite recent reports that salmon are encountering difficulties passing through Lacken Weir, I understand that the Southern Regional Fisheries Board is satisfied that the remedial works carried out on the fish pass are proving effective in ensuring salmon passage at the weir. The board's chief executive officer has advised me that he has agreed with the OPW to put a camera into the fish pass to monitor the situation more closely and to provide evidence of the number of salmon getting through or otherwise. I understand that the OPW will cover the cost of the camera, which will be installed as soon as weather and river conditions allow. The officials of the Department and the board will consider any further information brought to their attention about the operation of the weir.

Tourism Promotion.

John Perry

Question:

375 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the measures currently in place to develop eco-tourism in view of the array of marine life here; his plans to introduce a programme to encourage eco-tourism; if the Government has ever researched the area in the past in view of the fact that the whale-watching business is worth more than $1 billion annually; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32881/05]

As part of its research, development and co-ordination brief, the Marine Institute has supported a range of activities in the marine and water-based tourism sector. It has also participated in a EU INTERREG funded project, Marine Ecotourism for the Atlantic area. I have been advised that the project resulted in the establishment of a cluster group of marine ecotourism providers, the development of a range of promotional material and a series of marketing and IT training programmes. Those involved in the project published two significant documents in support of marine ecotourism. I understand that the further development of niche tourism of this nature is a matter for Fáilte Ireland, which operates under the aegis of the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism.

Fisheries Protection.

Joe Walsh

Question:

376 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to introduce a coherent system for the distribution of the mackerel quota; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32965/05]

Arrangements for the management of the mackerel quota have been in place for many years. These arrangements set individual catch limits for the 23 vessels in the dedicated pelagic segment of the Irish fleet, which is primarily based in the north west, Killybegs.

The vessels outside of the pelagic segment have traditionally caught comparatively small amounts of the stock, normally less than 1,000 tonnes. In 1999-2000, new vessels were introduced into the polyvalent segment of the fleet which are particularly suited to catching pelagic species. As a result of this change, the mackerel arrangements were reviewed in 2001 taking into account all of the issues and views expressed by the industry. To reflect the changes in the fleet and to balance the interests of all parties in this fishery, a maximum catch limit of 7,000 tonnes of mackerel quota was set for the vessels in the polyvalent segment of the fleet.

This represented a significant increase in the mackerel quota available to these vessels which, as the total Irish quota could not be increased, was taken off the quota that previously would have been given to the north west pelagic vessels. Subsequent to this change the national mackerel quota has decreased from approximately 70,000 tonnes to below 50,000 tonnes and, accordingly, the proportionate share available to vessels in the polyvalent segment has increased.

Accordingly, I consider that the current arrangements represent a fair and coherent system and I have no plans to introduce any further changes to them.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

377 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33016/05]

Disclosure of disability is not required of nominees or appointees to State boards and I am not therefore in a position to confirm the numbers of persons with disabilities appointed to State boards under the aegis of my Department since 30 September 2004.

Passenger Ship Inspections.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

378 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of times surveyors from his Department have inspected ships belonging to Irish Ferries docked in Irish ports; the position regarding such inspections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33076/05]

Over the past 12 months surveyors from the Department carried out a total of 15 inspections on the four passenger ships operated by Irish Ferries while they were either docked in Irish ports or on board a round trip between Irish and UK ports. In addition to this the surveyors carried out a total of four inspections during the same period on each of the four vessels while in dry dock in Belfast. The full details of the inspections are set out in the following table.

Under Irish and international law all passenger vessels, trading into and out of Irish ports are required to carry the appropriate certification to demonstrate compliance with International Maritime Organisation, IMO, and International Labour Organisation, ILO, requirements. All vessels are subject to surveys and inspections under the relevant flag state or port state control inspection system.

Details of Inspections of Irish Ferries vessels from November 2004 to October 2005.

Name of Ship

Inspection Dates

Inspection Details

MVNormandy

11 January 2005

In Belfast — Inspection on failure of mooring wires & consequent drift across dock

3, 4 & 7 March 2005

At Rosslare — Mandatory annual inspections under Directive 1999/35/EC*

23 March 2005

Follow up at Rosslare — further inspection Directive 1999/35/EC*

MV Ulysses

November/December 2004

Dublin to Holyhead 2 round trips pre-dry dock surveys

4 to 17 January 2005

At Belfast — Passenger Ship Safety Certificate renewal (dry dock and trials) and annual inspection Directive 1999/35/EC*

Early 2005

At Dublin — Follow up inspection of Emergency and abandon ship drills

Early 2005

Dublin/Holyhead round trip — follow up inspection on completion of survey deficiencies

MV Isle of Inishmore

18 to 26 January 2005

At Belfast — Passenger Ship Safety Certificate renewal and inspection under Directive 1999/35/EC*

7 February 2005

At Rosslare — Further inspection under Directive 1999/35/EC*

MV Jonathan Swift

10 November 2004

At Dublin — Marine Evacuation System Deployment

7 to 17 January 2005

At Belfast — Passenger Ship Safety Certificate renewal and inspection under Directive 1999/35/EC*

20 January 2005

At Dublin — Passenger Ship Safety Certificate renewal and inspection under Directive 1999/35/EC*

21 January 2005

At Dublin — Passenger Ship Safety Certificate renewal and inspection under Directive 1999/35/EC*

24 January 2005

At Dublin — Passenger Ship Safety Certificate renewal and inspection under Directive 1999/35/EC*

2 February 2005

At Dublin — Further inspection under Directive 1999/35/EC*

11 February 2005

At Dublin — Further inspection under Directive 1999/35/EC*

* All passenger ships, Irish and foreign registered, are subject to mandatory annual inspections for the safe operation of regular ro-ro ferries and high speed passenger craft services.

Post Office Network.

Denis Naughten

Question:

379 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to make grant aid available for rural post offices to ensure their computerisation, including the provision of Internet availability to the public; his views on whether this would help address the information divide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33080/05]

The primary responsibility for the development of the post office network rests with An Post. The automation of the network was completed in 1997 and it has only been in very exceptional circumstances, such as an existing automated office closing and its equipment being transferred to a suitable neighbouring location which transacts significant volumes of welfare business, that further offices have been automated since then.

The current level of automated coverage is considered by An Post to be extremely comprehensive by any objective standard and this level of coverage makes it difficult to justify on either customer service or economic grounds the extension of automation to all offices, regardless of their location or business volumes. Nevertheless, I have asked An Post to undertake a pilot project to automate a selected number of non-automated offices to gauge the effect on new business. Ten post offices have been automated over the past eight weeks and a marketing campaign is under way in the localities where the pilot projects are being undertaken to support the initiative. An Post will gauge the results of the pilot project and the impact of automation on business will be evaluated following the trial period.

With regard to the provision of Internet availability to the public, there are no plans by An Post, at this point, to provide this service to the public through the rural post office network. However, with the roll out of e-government services, the automated element of the post office network is ideally placed to capitalise on opportunities arising in this space, especially in the area of e-payments.

A core objective for An Post continues to be the retention of access to post office services in as many locations as possible, in the manner which best meets customer needs, whether services are provided via post offices, postal agencies or the PostPoint network.

National Airspace.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

380 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the British security forces have given an explanation for 7 July 2005 helicopter incursion into Rassan, County Louth; if so the explanation and the action he has taken regarding same. [32382/05]

The Government regards unauthorised incursions by the British security forces into this jurisdiction as a serious matter. On each occasion on which my Department is notified of an incident, the matter is immediately raised with the British authorities through the British-Irish Secretariat in Belfast. This was the case with the Rassan incident, which has also been taken up again through the secretariat. A substantive response is still awaited from the British authorities.

Repatriation of Foreign Nationals.

Willie Penrose

Question:

381 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he will take to ensure that financial aid is given in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32425/05]

The Department of Foreign Affairs has no funds at its disposal to repatriate the remains of nationals of other states. However, in order to be as helpful as possible, an official of the Department raised with the responsible embassy in Dublin whether the relevant national authorities would provide financial support for the repatriation of the remains. The official was informed that the embassy has conveyed to a family member of the deceased the procedure to be followed in order to make an application for financial assistance for repatriation of the remains.

Irish Language.

John Deasy

Question:

382 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32472/05]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table.

2002

2003

2004

Training

2,643.36

3,308.36

4,781.11

Translation

7,751.69

192,664.91

43,616.98

Advertising

20,718.51

23,996.70

111,470.40

Bilingual Signage

4,367.00

167.98

247.43

Other: Printing of Passport Forms

161,738.15

156,979.35

168,667.39

Other: Printing of material relating to the Nice Treaty

21,679.00

Other: Printing of Development Co-operation Ireland (DCI) material

21,243.32

Total

218,897.71

377,117.30

350,026.63

The Deputy will wish to note that translation costs in 2003 and 2004 include expenditure on translations relating to the Presidency of the European Union, particularly the Presidency website.

The increase in advertising expenditure in 2004 was due to a number of changes in the passport application process which had to be notified to the public.

Departmental Bodies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

383 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the membership of his Department’s audit committee; the chairperson and the number of occasions on which it has met in the past 12 months and the agenda of the meetings. [32563/05]

An independent audit committee was established in the Department of Foreign Affairs in November 2003. The members are: John Gerard O'Connor, chairperson, John S. Pittock, John A. Jackson and Valerie Little. The committee held the following meetings from November 2004 to November 2005: In 2004 on 17 and 29 November and 17 December; in 2005 on 28 January, 1 and 18 March, 14 April, 6 May, 9 June, 7 July, and 2 November. The agenda of the committee meetings during the last 12 months included meetings with the office of the Auditor General, staff of the Department, meetings on the Department's internal audit charter, the merger of two audit units within the Department, evaluation and audit work plans, the preparation of audit committee annual report, decentralisation, visits by committee members to missions abroad, expansion of the aid programme, and specific reports laid before the committee by the Department. In September 2005, the audit committee published its annual report for 2004, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library.

Decentralisation Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

384 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the assessment of the financial implications of decentralisation which have been carried out and, in particular, if the financial implications of the cost of training and additional staff during the on-the-job training in period; the cost of new recruitment to meet gaps in suitable applicants for the decentralised location; the cost of additional promotions to fill the positions required; if the cost of delays in redeploying staff who opt not to move with their post and cost of retraining and redeployment have been identified in respect of the proposed moves (details supplied). [32596/05]

Under the Government's decentralisation programme, the development co-operation directorate of the Department of Foreign Affairs, currently based in Dublin, is scheduled to decentralise to Limerick. This will involve the relocation to Limerick of 123 posts and is scheduled to take place during the first quarter of 2007.

While a small number of staff are involved in the management of the decentralisation programme for this Department, no new staff were recruited for this purpose and the salary costs of the staff involved are being borne from within existing resources. Training costs are not expected to be significant as most of the planned formal training courses, including a comprehensive induction programme for new staff, are being provided in-house. Officers who transfer to posts which are decentralising will also be provided with detailed role profiles and will, in most cases, receive some on-the-job training from those already in situ. The extent to which it will be possible to provide overlaps, and therefore the cost of these, is not yet clear.

Officers currently based in the directorate who decide not to decentralise to Limerick will be redeployed to other divisions or to other Departments or offices, in line with arrangements agreed between the Department of Finance and the unions. No additional costs are expected to arise under this heading. As the number of applications for the administrative positions advertised for Limerick exceeds the number required, the need to fill any gaps appears very unlikely.

The Office of Public Works, OPW, is responsible for the provision of office accommodation for the directorate in Limerick and will bear its rental costs. The Department is working closely with the OPW to identify suitable accommodation in Limerick and it is hoped to select a premises in the very near future. Pending this, it is not possible to estimate the level of costs which the Department will incur in the provision of the information and communications technology infrastructure and in other areas.

Richard Bruton

Question:

385 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the audit committee of his Department or its agencies have reviewed the risk management assessment of the proposed decentralisation proposals of the overseas development unit; if it has approved the assessment or made any recommendations for revising the risk assessment or changing the proposed risk mitigation strategies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32604/05]

The Department of Foreign Affairs has published its second implementation plan for the decentralisation of Development Co-operation Ireland to Limerick. This plan includes risk mitigation strategies. The Department's audit committee has discussed the issue of decentralisation and has reviewed the associated risk assessment. In September 2005, the audit committee published its annual report for 2004, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library and this report includes comments on decentralisation and on the associated risk assessment. The Department will take into account the comments of the audit committee in the implementation of the decentralisation strategy.

Overseas Development Aid.

Seán Haughey

Question:

386 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts being made to help the people of Pakistan and provide relief to them following the recent earthquake; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32649/05]

The earthquake which struck south Asia, particularly Pakistan, on 8 October has had devastating consequences. The unusually shallow nature of the quake caused widespread structural damage and current estimates put the dead at more than 70,000, including 17,000 children.

Ireland was among the first countries to respond to the disaster and our quick response was widely welcomed. Within a few hours of the earthquake €1 million was pledged towards immediate relief efforts in northern Pakistan and the surrounding regions. I remained in contact with the situation over the following hours and days. As the casualty figures rose dramatically, our response was increased to €5 million, placing Ireland as one of the highest donors to the disaster on a per capita basis. Some of the pledges made by donors have not materialised into solid commitments. I support President Musharraf’s call for more generous assistance, specifically from Islamic, EU and OECD states. It is essential that vital assistance is delivered in order to save lives.

Approximately €1.5 million of our assistance has been allocated to key UN humanitarian agencies, including UNICEF and the World Food Programme, WFP. More than €2.5 million has been allocated to non-governmental organisations, NGOs, such as Concern, GOAL, Oxfam, Plan Ireland and Trócaire, which are active in the provision of essential services on the ground. These services include food, health, shelter, water and sanitation. The emergency phase of the disaster is by no means over. Many villages, communities and individuals remain vulnerable. Our key objective remains to save lives. In the longer term we will assist with restoring livelihoods and working towards recovery.

Emigrant Services.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

387 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding his initiatives in respect of Irish persons abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32663/05]

Significant advances continue to be made in progressing initiatives which benefit Irish people abroad, including securing substantially increased funding for this purpose. The high priority which the Government attaches to this area of national policy is reflected in the establishment of a dedicated unit in my Department, the Irish abroad unit, to work exclusively on the issue.

Funding for emigrant services continues to increase substantially. This year the allocation is more than eight times greater than it was in 1997. In all, grants in 2005 will amount to €8.273 million, representing a 63% increase on last year. I expect to see a further significant increase in the coming year. A particular priority is the need to support our most vulnerable and marginalised communities abroad, in particular our older community in Britain. In this regard, the considerably increased funding has enabled enhanced support to be given to voluntary agencies engaged at the front line with vulnerable communities. In addition, these agencies are engaged in the provision of pre-departure services, as well as advice and assistance to emigrants wishing to return to Ireland.

A second priority relates to the vulnerable circumstances of our undocumented community in the United States. The legislative debate in the US on immigration reform is entering a critical phase. In the light of the high priority which the Government attaches to securing the desired reform, and assisted by the important all-party resolutions passed recently in both Houses of the Oireachtas, I am intensifying our lobbying efforts, including through visits to Washington, New York and Boston. Likewise, I have instructed the embassy and the consulates in the US to intensify their lobbying in pursuit of our position. The Deputy can be assured that the welfare of our citizens abroad has the highest ongoing priority for the Government.

Irish Prisoners Abroad.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

388 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his contacts with Irish prisoners abroad; the services available to families in that regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32664/05]

When Irish citizens are sentenced to terms in prison abroad they are entitled under the Vienna convention on consular relations to seek consular assistance from the Department of Foreign Affairs, through the relevant Irish diplomatic mission. The mission will seek to ensure that prisoners are treated in a non-discriminatory manner; that their living conditions are as humane as possible; that they are legally represented; and that they can communicate with family, their legal representative, and the mission in question.

The Department tries to facilitate every request from an Irish prisoner for a consular visit and many prisoners are visited on more than one occasion. The Department's efforts on behalf of Irish prisoners are supplemented and complemented by the activities of the Irish Commission for Prisoners Overseas. To demonstrate the official recognition of the importance of their work in this regard, I increased the total grant to the commission from €162,000 in 2004 to €213,444 this year.

The Government has also agreed to carry out a research project to identify the number of Irish prisoners abroad and their needs for services. The terms of reference for this study have recently been agreed, and the study will be carried out by Mr. Chris Flood, the former Minister of State. The main focus of the study will be to establish the numbers of Irish prisoners abroad, the countries in which they are held, the offences for which they have been charged or convicted and the duration of sentences. It is also intended that it will review the services provided to Irish prisoners by the Government and by other social agencies and, inter alia, make recommendation on how these services might be improved. I look forward to the completion of this important report.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

389 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33017/05]

There are four boards-committees under the aegis of the Department of Foreign Affairs: the advisory board for Development Co-operation Ireland; the development education advisory committee; the board of the Ireland-United States Commission for Educational Exchange — Fulbright Commission; and the Díon committee, an advisory committee to the Government on the situation of Irish emigrants in Britain. To the best of my knowledge, and while it may not always be apparent if a person has a disability, there are no persons with disabilities among those appointed to the above boards-committees.

Visa Applications.

John Deasy

Question:

390 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a re-entry visa will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and when same will issue. [33255/05]

A multiple entry visa was issued to the person concerned by the Department of Foreign Affairs visa office on 28 October last. All documentation, including the passport with the visa attached was returned on that date by registered post to the address indicated by the applicant. Its receipt has also been separately confirmed.

Irish Language.

John Deasy

Question:

391 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32473/05]

It has been my Department's policy since its establishment in mid-2002 to facilitate the public and staff who wish to use the Irish language. Even prior to the enactment of the Official Languages Act 2003, my Department has made every effort to make all key publications and leaflets available in both Irish and English and the Department's stationery is in bilingual form. It is also general departmental policy to place advertisements in both languages.

As the use of Irish is treated as an integral part of the service provided by my Department, it would not be possible to estimate with any degree of accuracy the amount of money my Department has spent in the years 2002 to 2004 on the Irish language.

As the Deputy is aware, my Department's scheme under the Official Languages Act which covers the period 2005 to 2008 came into effect on 1 July 2005. The additional costs directly associated with the implementation of this scheme are now being identified and in this regard I refer the Deputy to my response to a question tabled by him on 25 October.

Swimming Pool Projects.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

392 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in relation to the provision of a replacement swimming pool in Naas, County Kildare. [32516/05]

As I indicated to the Deputy in my reply to Question No. 638 of 28 September 2005, I approved the detailed contract documents, submitted by Kildare County Council, for the Naas swimming pool project in March 2005. Following this approval, Kildare County Council indicated to my Department that it proposed to change the site for the project. My Department understands that the council will submit the proposal for the new site shortly.

Sports Capital Programme.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

393 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the reason County Kildare only received 13.5% of grants sought under the 2005 sports capital programme when other counties such as Kilkenny received 42%, Kerry 20%, Cork 23%, Limerick 17% and Sligo 25%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32524/05]

The national lottery funded sports capital programme, which is 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.

All applications received under the programme are assessed on an individual basis by officials in the sports unit of my Department in accordance with a detailed set of assessment criteria as specified in the guidelines, terms and conditions that accompany the application form for the programme. Following the assessment process, each application receives a score, which gives its order of priority within its own county.

When assessing individual applications, regard is had to the amount of funding being sought by each applicant for their project as well as other factors such as the population levels in each county, the amount of funding available for allocation, the existing level of facilities in an area, the quality of the applications received, and the strategic positioning of major facilities that may be required. Every effort is also made to achieve a balanced geographical spread of funds throughout the country while also affording priority to projects in areas of social and economic disadvantage.

Under the sport capital programme a total of €385.9 million has been allocated to 4,904 projects since 1998, of which €23.4 million has been allocated to 218 projects in County Kildare. There is no doubt that all counties have benefited tremendously from this greatly increased funding.

Departmental Bodies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

394 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the membership of his Department’s audit committee; the chairperson and the number of occasions on which it has met in the past 12 months and the agenda of the meetings. [32568/05]

The Department's audit committee has five members, three external members and two internal members. The committee, which is chaired by Mr. Sean Dorgan, chief executive of the IDA, met on three occasions in the past 12 months. The agenda for each meeting of the committee is dictated by the committee's terms of reference and usually consists of an examination of audit reports completed, an appraisal of progress in the integration of risk management into existing management systems and a report on progress in the completion of the annual audit programme.

Decentralisation Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

395 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the assessment of the financial implications of decentralisation which have been carried out and, in particular, if the financial implications of the cost of training and additional staff during the on-the-job training in period; the cost of new recruitment to meet gaps in suitable applicants for the decentralised location; the cost of additional promotions to fill the positions required; if the cost of delays in redeploying staff which opt not to move with their post and cost of retraining and redeployment have been identified in respect of the proposed moves (details supplied). [32601/05]

The main costs of the decentralisation of my Department will be those relating to the acquisition of the site in Killarney and the construction of the new building. These costs will be borne and monitored by the OPW. I understand that such costs are likely to be offset by the disposal of property in Dublin.

My Department has an ongoing training programme for all staff for which a budget is provided on an annual basis. As it is proposed to transfer staff wishing to decentralise to Killarney into the Department on a phased basis, it is expected that their training needs will be met from within our existing and future budgets.

As all grades except the principal officer grade are oversubscribed for Killarney, it is not expected that new recruitment will be necessary below that level. My Department may need to take a small number of principal officers from the interdepartmental panel to meet any ultimate shortfall in numbers at this grade level. It is not possible at this stage to assess what, if any, delays in redeployment of staff of my Department who have not opted to transfer to Killarney will occur. My Department's decentralisation plan is consistently being refined and updated and in this context all elements, including likely costs, are being kept under review.

Richard Bruton

Question:

396 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if the audit committee of his Department or its agencies have reviewed the risk management assessment of the proposed decentralisation proposals (details supplied); if it has approved the assessment or made any recommendations for revising the risk assessment or changing the proposed risk mitigation strategies. [32609/05]

The mandate being operated by the audit committee of my Department includes the consideration of how risk management is integrated into the Department's business process. My Department's decentralisation implementation plan includes an associated risk analysis. As the plan is being refined and updated on an ongoing basis, the audit committee has not considered it to date. However, it is proposed to place it on its agenda early in 2006.

In the case of the agencies under the aegis of my Department, I have asked them recently to update their decentralisation implementation plans. When this exercise is completed, they will in due course have their plans considered by their respective audit committees.

Swimming Pool Projects.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

397 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the redevelopment of the Monaghan town swimming pool; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32862/05]

Monaghan County Council applied for funding under the local authority swimming pool programme to replace the existing swimming pool in Monaghan town. I approved the tender documentation and grant aid of €3.8 million for the pool in January 2005. I understand that construction work is ongoing and is due to be completed mid-2006.

Film Industry Development.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

398 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the annual level of support advanced to the Irish film industry between 2002 and to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32865/05]

The Irish Film Board is funded by my Department and operates independently. It is responsible for the day-to-day promoting of the Irish film sector. The amounts made available to the board over the past four years were as follows: 2002 —€12.265 million; 2003 —€10.768 million; 2004 —€11.846 million; and 2005 —€14.45 million.

The other major strand of State support for film is through the section 481 scheme for investment in film production. This relief has been extended to 2008, with the amount that may be raised increasing to €15 million since the beginning of this year. The total number of projects certified over the past four years under the section 481 scheme were as follows:

Total of Projects certified

Total Certified Spend

of which Irish Spend

Section 481 Amount

€m

€m

€m

2002 — 22

142.9

87.9

62.2

2003 — 25

282.7

135.6

84.8

2004 — 22

119.6

66.5

58.1

2005 — 19 to date

101.5

47.8

42.2

Total — 88

646.7

337.8

247.3

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

399 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33018/05]

All appointments made by me to State boards under the aegis of my Department are made on the basis of the relevant competencies, knowledge and experience each appointee can bring to the board. Since the establishment of my Department in June 2002 I have not, to my knowledge, appointed any persons with disabilities.

Decentralisation Programme.

Séamus Pattison

Question:

400 Mr. Pattison asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding the decentralised Government office for Carlow. [32654/05]

My Department has made good progress in implementing its decentralisation programme. With regard to the site, the current position is that my Department is working closely with the OPW on the procurement of a site in Carlow town centre and we understand that the OPW is close to finalising the acquisition of this site. The next steps in the process will include the OPW issuing a call for tenders for the design, build, finance and manage procurement option selected by the decentralisation implementation group.

Community Employment Schemes.

Michael Ring

Question:

401 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if core funding will be provided to allow people who are working on community employment schemes providing services for the disability sector to be appointed on a permanent basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33090/05]

The main purpose of the community employment programme operated by FÁS is to provide work experience and training for the long-term unemployed and disadvantaged groups and thereby enable participants to advance successfully to employment in the open labour market. On 10 November 2004, following a review of FÁS employment schemes — community employment, job initiative and social economy programmes — I announced that community employment places supporting the delivery of health services will continue to be ring-fenced. However, in line with Government policy, there are no plans to mainstream these community employment places.

Company Closures.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

402 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the status of efforts by the workforce of a company in liquidation (details supplied) in County Cork to secure a fair redundancy package from this company; his efforts regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32381/05]

From inquiries made in my Department, 18 former employees of the company concerned were paid their statutory redundancy entitlements out of the social insurance fund. Two were refused on the ground that the claimants were not fully insurable for all benefits under the Social Welfare Acts and, therefore, not entitled to statutory redundancy. The payments were made direct to the 18 former employees out of the SIF on the basis that the company was in voluntary liquidation, insolvent and not in a position to pay the employees the statutory redundancy entitlements. In accordance with the provisions of the Redundancy Payments Acts 1967 to 2003, I have sought recovery of 40% of the amount paid to the former employees from the liquidator of the company.

Responsibility for the resolution of industrial disputes is a matter for the parties involved. The State provides the industrial relations dispute settlement machinery free of charge to assist this process, which, in line with the general principles of industrial relations in Ireland, is voluntary in nature. The system of industrial relations in Ireland is designed to help and support parties in their efforts to resolve their differences, rather than imposing an extensive set of legislative conditions on the parties to an industrial dispute.

When the Minister, Deputy Martin, met the workers, he informed them that the services of the Labour Relations Commission were available to help and support the parties in their efforts to resolve the dispute. To date, neither the employer, the employees or their representatives have been in contact with the Labour Relations Commission. Mr. Damien Cannon, regional manager, south and south west, of the Labour Relations Commission — telephone no. 086 8388 183 — remains available to assist the parties in resolving their differences.

Work Permits.

Pat Breen

Question:

403 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a work permit will be issued to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32413/05]

I am informed by the work permit section of my Department that an application was received on 28 January 2004 in respect of this person. The application was refused on the basis that two non-EEA directors of the named employer-company did not have the required business permission from the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. The employer was informed of this decision in writing and of its right of appeal. To date, no such appeal has been received.

Irish Language.

John Deasy

Question:

404 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32474/05]

My Department has incurred the estimated following expenditure set out under the headings listed from 2002 to 2004:

Training

2002

2003

2004

630

630

540

University Degree Programme from 2002 to 2005 €2,500

Translation

2002

2003

2004

4,470

3,602

1,214

Advertising

2002

2003

2004

10,175

13,680

9,504

Other

2002

2003

2004

0

0

6,987

Departmental Bodies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

405 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the membership of his Department’s audit committee; the chairperson and the number of occasions on which it has met in the past 12 months and the agenda of the meetings. [32566/05]

The audit committee of my Department has five members. It is chaired by Mr. Dermot Quigley, former Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners, and includes the head of internal audit from a Government agency and three senior departmental officials. The committee has met on four occasions in the past 12 months. Agendas for these meetings typically relate to agreement of minutes of the previous meeting, presentations on relevant matters, progress briefing and reports from the head of internal audit on internal audit activity and related issues.

Job Losses.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

406 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs lost in Donegal in each of the past ten years; the percentage of jobs lost which were in the textile sector; and the retraining initiatives provided to workers made redundant including the number of those made redundant which have availed of retraining provided by the State. [32582/05]

Gross job losses in Enterprise Ireland and IDA supported companies in County Donegal since 1996-2005 is not yet available — were as follows:

Year

Gross job losses

1996

736

1997

430

1998

526

1999

1,569

2000

838

2001

968

2002

622

2003

919

2004

639

Of the total gross job losses indicated above, 66% were attributable to losses in the textiles and clothing sector. As regards retraining initiatives, FÁS has played, and will continue to play, an active and very positive role in respect of company lay-offs and closures. Services offered by FÁS to workers losing their jobs comprise the following elements: liaison with senior management in the company affected with regard to how the process will be conducted; information sessions for all affected workers if required. The aim of these sessions is to outline the range of support and services available from FÁS and other public bodies. FÁS employment services staff conduct full registration interviews with all workers. These interviews help assess suitable career progression options for each redundant worker and identify their training and development needs. FÁS prepares a skills analysis report detailing a composite of the skills of the workforce. This is available to the development organisations such as the IDA and Enterprise Ireland on request. A skills-training aspiration list is also compiled to inform FÁS of the required re-training and upskilling needs of the redundant workers. This training is delivered by various means; existing scheduled training programmes delivered by our three training centres within the region, Letterkenny, Gweedore and Sligo, or in the case of a specialist training requirement, at any FÁS centre throughout the country. Contracted training and community based training can also be availed of. In the past FÁS increased dramatically its range of contracted training courses to meet the retraining needs of redundant workers. Special training needs not catered for by the existing FÁS suite of programmes can be facilitated through its customised training fund, evenings-Saturday courses and e-learning options. The provision of information, career guidance and advice is an ongoing element of the service to redundant workers. Redundant workers are given initial and on-going information and support to keep them in touch with the labour market. They are advised of the FÁS Jobs Ireland database which allows jobseekers to register their curriculum vitae and source jobs via the Internet. They are also informed of the FÁS call centre which provides a job matching facility for jobseekers and they are provided with information on the cross-Border and Eures websites.

In respect of redundant workers who do not succeed through the above interventions, they will be referred to FÁS once again via the national employment action plan strategy on reaching the six month unemployment threshold. They will then be assigned a FÁS officer and become a caseload client. They will be interacted with on a regular basis to assist their re-entry to the workforce. While most workers being made redundant would have availed of at least some of the services above, approximately 1,000 availed of full retraining over the past ten years.

Job Creation.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

407 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the percentage total entrepreneurial activity here for the year ending 31 December 2004. [32583/05]

The total entrepreneurial activity rating is a measure used by the international global entrepreneurship monitor, GEM. It encompasses any type of entrepreneurial initiative, including self-employment as well as those taking specific actions to establish new enterprises. The GEM is a long-term, large-scale multinational research programme co-ordinated jointly by the London Business School and Babson College in the USA. The total entrepreneurial activity rating for Ireland for the year ending 31 December 2004, as measured by GEM, was 7.7%. The GEM research shows that Ireland's rating for 2004 was second only to Poland within the EU in entrepreneurial activity.

Decentralisation Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

408 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the assessment of the financial implications of decentralisation which have been carried out and, in particular, if the financial implications of the cost of training and additional staff during the on-the-job training in period; the cost of new recruitment to meet gaps in suitable applicants for the decentralised location; the cost of additional promotions to fill the positions required; if the cost of delays in redeploying staff which opt not to move with their post and cost of retraining and redeployment have been identified in respect of the proposed moves (details supplied). [32599/05]

In respect of the decentralisation of Enterprise Ireland headquarters, including 300 staff, to Shannon, the agency has identified the posts to be transferred and these are advertised as part of the central applications facility, CAF. The most immediate implementation step for Enterprise Ireland is to provide for a new headquarters building designed to meet the business needs of the organisation. Working closely with the OPW, a preferred site, a 13 acre site owned by Shannon Development, has been identified. The site was valued and a feasibility study carried out. When approval is received to proceed with its accommodation arrangements under decentralisation, Enterprise Ireland will undertake a detailed planning process in relation to staffing issues and the costs involved.

In respect of the Health and Safety Authority, HSA, the Office of Public Works is in the process of acquiring a site in Thomastown, County Kilkenny, which will be suitable for the office accommodation requirements of the authority. As this process, including the planning, construction and office fit-out, will form a significant part of the overall costs of decentralisation, my Department is not in a position to give the full estimated cost of the financial implications involved. It is not possible at this stage to put an overall cost on the staffing and training issues associated with decentralisation. Much will depend on the final number of staff who opt to transfer and the arrangements that will be necessary to put in place for the authority to continue to carry out its statutory remit.

Richard Bruton

Question:

409 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the audit committee of his Department or its agencies have reviewed the risk management assessment of the proposed decentralisation proposals (details supplied); if it has approved the assessment or made recommendations for revising the risk assessment or changing the proposed risk mitigation strategies. [32607/05]

My Department and the decentralising agencies under the aegis of my Department have completed a risk assessment exercise to assess direct and indirect risks, threats to and opportunities for the synergies between my Department and its agencies following decentralisation. Both Enterprise Ireland and the Health and Safety Authority have undertaken separate risk assessments within their own organisations to identify possible issues with regard to their own operations. In the case of Enterprise Ireland, following notification of the Government decision on decentralisation to Enterprise Ireland, the board of Enterprise Ireland received and noted a preliminary risk assessment of the implications of decentralisation for the agency. When approval is received to proceed with the agency's accommodation arrangements under decentralisation, a further risk assessment may be carried out, based on the situation then pertaining.

With regard to the Health and Safety Authority, the authority has carried out a detailed risk assessment in regard to decentralisation. This assessment, which is set out in the decentralisation implementation plan submitted by the HSA to the decentralisation implementation group, DIG, includes plans to ensure vital national services are maintained during the transition period. This plan was considered and approved by the board of the HSA. The decentralisation implementation plan is revised on a periodic basis and the risk assessment is reviewed during this process having regard to developments that have taken place in the interim. The plan submitted by the authority is available for viewing on its website, www.hsa.ie.

To maintain a detailed record of the cost of implementing the decentralisation programme, the authority has set up a specific accounting process that will track all costs associated with decentralisation. This will be subject to audit on an ongoing basis by both the HSA's internal auditors and the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General.

Work Permits.

Michael Lowry

Question:

410 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a work permit will be granted for a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if the reasons surrounding the person’s dismissal from a previous position will be investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32983/05]

I am informed by the work permit section of my Department that the above named individual has lodged a complaint with the rights commissioner service of the Labour Relations Commission. This case was partially heard on the 24 August 2005 and is due to resume in the near future. In these circumstances the work permit section is prepared to consider favourably an application from a new employer. There will be no requirement on the new employer to advertise this position with FÁS. However, all immigration laws will have to be adhered to before the permit application can be processed. Application forms and further information can be found on my Department's website at www.entemp.ie.

Michael Lowry

Question:

411 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason for refusal of a work permit to a person (details supplied); if the application will be reconsidered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32984/05]

I am informed by the work permit section of my Department that an application was received on 12 October 2005 in the respect of the named individual. The application was refused on the basis that there are EEA nationals available for the work in question. The employer has been notified of this decision in writing and of their right of appeal. To date, no such appeal has been received.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

412 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33019/05]

The constitution of State boards is governed by statute. Nominations are based on an individual's experience and expertise in a particular field, and not on any disability that the person may have. In some instances I am obliged to make appointments based on the nominations received from nominating bodies.

While I am aware that there is one member of a board with a disability, I am not in a position to state whether any other persons with a disability have been appointed to the State boards under the aegis of my Department.

Child Support.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

413 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he intends to address the ending of child poverty in budget 2006 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32637/05]

In mid-October, I held a pre-budget forum which was attended by 31 representative organisations which included five of the members of the End Child Poverty Coalition. The five organisations were Barnardos, Children's Rights Alliance, Open, Pavee Point and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. At the forum, each organisation had the opportunity to present its key priorities for consideration in advance of budget 2006. I thank each of the members of the End Child Poverty Coalition for their contribution to the forum and the valuable work which they and many other organisations do in their communities.

I have also received a written budget submission from the End Child Poverty Coalition, entitled Last Chance to End Child Poverty by 2007, which sets out a wide range of proposals relating to children. These proposals, with the proposals put forward by other organisations, will be considered in the context of the forthcoming budget.

As I mentioned at the pre-budget forum, tackling the scourge of child poverty is one of the great challenges facing us today. It is a complex area and for the past year considerable time and effort has been devoted to analysing the issues and developing proposals on child income support and addressing the particular difficulties of lone parent families. For example, the National Economic and Social Council is examining the feasibility of a second tier child income support payment, which would replace child dependant allowance and family income supplement and would be paid in addition to child benefit to lower income families whether in employment.

I will be giving careful consideration to all these proposals, including those of the End Child Poverty Coalition, in framing this year's social welfare budget package.

Anti-Poverty Strategy.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

414 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his proposals for budget 2006 to make poverty history for older persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32848/05]

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

415 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on the recent submission he received from Age Action Ireland which is striving to make poverty history for older persons. [32976/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 414 and 415 together.

In mid-October, I held a pre-budget forum which was attended by 31 representative organisations, including Age Action Ireland. At this forum, each organisation, had the opportunity to present its key priorities for consideration in advance of budget 2006. I thank Age Action Ireland for its contribution to the forum and the valuable work which it and many other organisations do in their communities.

I have also received a written pre-budget submission from Age Action Ireland, entitled Making Poverty History for Older People, which sets out a wide range of proposals relating to older people. These proposals, with other proposals put forward by other organisations, will be considered in the context of the forthcoming budget.

In this context, the Government is committed to increasing the rate of the basic State pension to €200 by 2007. We are on target to achieve this objective. In budget 2005, all pensioners received an increase of €12 per week. This represented a level of increase equivalent to three times the projected level of inflation for 2005, thereby ensuring a real increase in the standard of living for all pensioners. I look forward to making further progress on this matter in budget 2006.

Social Insurance.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

416 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on whether the situation where farm families are in receipt of farm assist but are not allowed to make PRSI contributions in view of the fact that if a farm family was earning over €3,500 from the farm but not claiming social welfare it can make the payment and it has major implications for either the farmer himself, pension wise, or in the case of death for the widow or widower; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33007/05]

The farm assist scheme was introduced in the Social Welfare Act 1999. The new scheme was designed specially for farmers on low incomes and replaced the existing smallholders assistance scheme. The scheme includes a preferential means test, taking into account both the farm income and off-farm self-employment of farmers and spouse.

Like unemployment assistance and the previous arrangements for those in receipt of smallholders unemployment assistance, these self-employed contributors are excepted from liability for class S PRSI under the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act 1993. However, they are eligible to pay voluntary contributions, currently payable at €253 per annum and is equivalent to the minimum contribution for class S contributors, to maintain their contribution record in respect of the period they are claiming farm assist. This provision is referenced in the information leaflet on the farm assist scheme.

Farmers with income in excess of €3,174 per annum who are not in receipt of a farm assist payment are insurable at PRSI class S are entitled to the following payments: widow's-widower's contributory pension; orphan's contributory allowance; old age contributory pension; maternity benefit; adoptive benefit; and bereavement grant.

While credits may be awarded in particular circumstances, in general terms credited contributions are not awarded in respect of the farm assist payment. The rules which apply to credited contributions in general stipulate that the award of unemployment credits is limited to employed contributors. Credited contributions may not be awarded, however, where the last paid contribution made by the person in question was in respect of self-employment, class S, for example a self-employment farmer with earnings in excess of €3,174 per annum.

Any consideration of the question of providing for the award of class S credited contributions could not be confined to those persons in a particular sector or qualifying for a particular welfare payment, such as farm assist, but would also have to have regard to other groups formerly insured at class S. This could have considerable cost implications in terms of creating entitlements to benefits in the future.

Grant Payments.

Michael Ring

Question:

417 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason the farm assist entitlement of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has been reduced to a maximum payment applies, rather than the maximum rate assessed; the reason this person was only allowed a half-rate CDA for one child in view of the fact that they have two dependent children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32391/05]

The person concerned is in receipt of farm assist at the weekly rate of €107.10. As the spouse of the person concerned is in receipt of injury benefit in her own right he is not entitled to a qualified adult allowance in respect of her.

The entitlement of the person concerned is also subject to the limitation in the legislation which provides that, where one spouse is entitled to one of a number of social welfare payments, including injury benefit, and the other is entitled to farm assist, the total payable to them cannot be more than the married rate of benefit or assistance payable whichever is the higher.

The maximum amount payable in each case is calculated as follows:

Farm assist

Personal rate

148.80

Qualified adult allowance

98.70

Allowance for one child

16.80

Less means

15.00

Maximum family payment under farm assist:

249.30

Injury benefit

Personal rate

148.80

Qualified adult allowance

98.70

Allowance for one child

16.80

Maximum family payment under injury benefit:

264.30

As the rate of injury benefit, €264.30, is greater than the rate of farm assist, €249.30, the limitation applied is based on the injury benefit rate. Therefore, the maximum rate of farm assist payable is €107.10, that is €264.30 less €157.20. These payments include half-rate dependant child allowance.

The question of the payment of a second child dependant allowance has yet to be determined and an application form for this purpose was issued to the person concerned on 2 November 2005. Upon receipt of this form this aspect of his claim will be examined, a decision will be made and the person concerned will be notified of the outcome.

Social Welfare Benefits.

John Perry

Question:

418 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to provide extra child allowance in counties Sligo and Leitrim for the first five years to encourage home parenting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32536/05]

Child benefit is a universal payment which is payable in respect of all children up to the age of 16 years and continues to be paid up to age 19 in the case of children who are still in full-time education and children with disabilities.

Government policy over the past number of years has been to substantially increase the amount spent on child benefit, to the advantage of all families. Commitment to this policy is reflected in the significant resources invested in the child benefit scheme since 2001, increasing monthly payments to €141.60 for each of the first two children and €177.30 for the third and subsequent children, increases of €87.64 and €106.19 respectively.

Any further increase in child benefit is a matter for consideration in a budgetary context and in view of competing priorities.

Jack Wall

Question:

419 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reasons a person (details supplied) in County Kildare has not been awarded rent subsidy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32586/05]

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on behalf of my Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive. Neither I nor my Department has any function in decisions on individual claims. Rent supplements are subject to a statutory limit on the amount of rent that an applicant for supplement may incur.

The Dublin mid-Leinster region of the executive has advised that the person concerned was refused rent supplement on the grounds that the rent payable for his accommodation was in excess of the prescribed maximum limit for his area of residence and for his household size.

The executive has further advised that, in its opinion, there are no special circumstances in this case to merit payment of rent supplement to the person concerned on an exceptional needs basis.

It is open to the person concerned to appeal the decision to the appeals office within the Health Service Executive.

Decentralisation Programme.

Denis Naughten

Question:

420 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when he intends to decentralise part of his Department to Carrick-on-Shannon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32589/05]

Denis Naughten

Question:

432 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of applications in each grade that has been received from civil servants wishing to decentralise to Carrick-on-Shannon; the number of positions at each grade required to facilitate the decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33029/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 420 and 432 together.

In December 2003 as part of the Government's announcement of the new decentralisation programme, it was decided that 220 posts would be decentralised from my Department to Carrick-on-Shannon. The Office of Public Works commenced the process of identifying suitable accommodation in the town and it was decided to pursue a two phased approach to decentralisation to Carrick-on-Shannon.

Phase 1 will involve 130 posts and a building is scheduled to be ready for occupation in early 2007. The Department expects to be ready to commence the relocation of staff to Carrick-on-Shannon at this time.

The central applications facility operated by the Public Appointments Service has, up to 7 September 2004, identified 273 staff who wish to relocate to Carrick-on-Shannon as a first preference and the grade breakdown is as follows: three principal officers, seven assistant principal officers, 19 higher executive officers, one administrative officer, 50 executive officers, 22 staff officers, 166 clerical officers and five other assorted posts.

In the first phase the Department will require in the region of three principal officers, 12 assistant principal officers, 16 higher executive officers, 22 executive officers, seven staff officers, 67 clerical officers, and three services officers. The Department is well subscribed at most grades from amongst the first preference applications and, at those grades where there is a shortage of numbers, the Department is now in the process of identifying staff who may have Carrick-on-Shannon as an alternate choice on the central applications facility.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Richard Bruton

Question:

421 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his estimate of the number of full-time carers who are disqualified from receiving the carer’s allowance due to the fact that they are already in receipt of another social welfare payment; his further estimate of the cost of extending a 50% carer’s allowance to these carer’s in recognition of the substantially greater requirements imposed upon them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32640/05]

The carer's allowance is a social assistance payment which provides income support to people who are providing certain elderly or incapacitated persons with full-time care and attention and whose incomes fall below a certain limit.

The primary objective of the social welfare system is to provide income support and, as a general rule, only one weekly social welfare payment is payable to an individual. This ensures that resources are not used to make two income support payments to any one person. I made provision in budget 2005 for major improvements to the respite care grant. This includes the extension of the grant of €1,000 to all persons providing full time care and attention, regardless of their means. Those persons in receipt of other social welfare payments, excluding unemployment assistance and benefit, will be entitled to this payment subject to meeting the full time care condition. This arrangement was introduced to acknowledge the needs of carers, especially in relation to respite, and it is estimated that overall over 31,000 carers will receive a respite care grant in 2005.

According to census 2002 there are over 48,000 people providing personal care for over four hours per day. Almost 25,500 of these are in receipt of either carer's allowance or carer's benefit. It is likely that a proportion of the balance is in receipt of a different social welfare payment, for example an old age pension. Unfortunately it is not possible to estimate the number of people who are in this situation and it is therefore not possible to estimate the cost of the Deputy's proposal.

Health Service Allowances.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

422 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the person who is entitled to claim for the special allowance for diabetics; the budget spent by his Department on the scheme for the past five years; and the corresponding number of persons who availed of the scheme for the same period. [32683/05]

Diet supplements are provided through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme which is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive.

Any person who is receiving a social welfare or Health Service Executive payment, who has been prescribed a special diet as a result of a specified medical condition and who is unable to provide for his or her food needs from within his or her own resources, may qualify for a diet supplement under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.

Diet supplements are subject to a means test. Under the existing scheme, the amount of supplement payable in individual cases depends on which of two categories of diet, low cost or high cost, has been prescribed by the applicant's medical adviser, and the income of the individual and his or her dependants.

In accordance with the regulations governing the scheme a diabetic diet is categorised as a low cost diet and the amount of diet supplement payable would be €44.00 less one third of the applicant's income — one sixth in the case of a couple.

Details of the budget spent and the number of recipients of diet supplements in the past five years are shown in the following table:

Number of recipients of diet supplements 1999-2004

Year

Recipient

Expenditure

€m

1999

8,571

4.67

2000

9,736

5.14

2001

10,842

5.7

2002

12,263

6.3

2003

13,577

7.04

2004

12,669

6.88

Social Welfare Benefits.

Willie Penrose

Question:

423 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason the budget announcement allocating a weekly payment of €35 per week to persons in residential institutions, who have not previously qualified for the disability allowance, is not payable to persons who are legally detained in the Central Mental Hospital; if he intends to amend the current legislation to permit this payment to be so paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32684/05]

The disability allowance, personal expenses rate, was provided for in the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2005, at an amount not exceeding €35 per week, effective from 1 June 2005. This payment replaced the spending allowances, formerly paid by the health boards, to people in residential care since prior to 1999 who are not eligible for full disability allowance, solely due to their residency. The Social Welfare Act 1999 made provision for the retention of entitlement to disability allowance where a person who has been living at home subsequently enters residential care, effective from June of that year.

During the administrative preparations for the introduction of the disability allowance, personal expenses rate, my Department contacted the Central Mental Hospital to establish if there were residents who might be eligible for this new payment. A person detained in legal custody is disqualified for receipt of disability allowance under the Social Welfare Acts.

There are a number of different categories of residency in the Central Mental Hospital as follows; those detained under the categories of "guilty but insane" and "unfit to plead" who are deemed to be detained in legal custody and are not eligible for payment of disability allowance under the social welfare Acts and those detained under the relevant mental health Acts who are not considered to be detained in legal custody and are therefore eligible for disability allowance.

Residents in the Central Mental Hospital who are detained under the relevant mental health Acts are therefore eligible for disability allowance personal expenses rate and there are a number of such residents currently in receipt of this payment.

There are no plans to amend the current legislation in relation to persons in legal custody. I do intend, however, to review the situation regarding people in residential settings who are not currently eligible for the payment of full disability allowance and to move towards the removal of this disqualification so that all persons in residential care will have an income maintenance payment on the same basis.

Michael Ring

Question:

424 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons providing care who were refused the respite care grant in 2005; the numbers for each category of refusal, on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32835/05]

The budget for 2005 provided, inter alia, for the extension of eligibility for the respite care grant to people providing full-time care and attention who are not in receipt of either carer’s benefit or carer’s allowance. Those in receipt of the latter payments receive the grant automatically without having to make a separate application.

A total of 436 applications were refused. In 348 cases, the application was refused because the person to whom care was provided was found not to be in need of full-time care and attention. In 44 cases, the application was refused because the person providing care was self-employed, employed or signing on the live register and seeking employment. In 12 cases, the application was refused because the person was not providing full-time care and attention. In nine cases, the application was refused because the Health Service Executive had already paid the respite care grant in those instances. Three claims were withdrawn and the remaining 20 cases were rejected for a variety of other reasons. A full breakdown of the reasons for refusal by county is set out in the following tabular statement.

Respite Care Grant Refusals 2005

Claim Decision Reason

County

Total

Full time care and attention not needed

348

Carlow

6

Dublin

68

Kildare

19

Kilkenny

4

Laois

8

Longford

5

Louth

7

Meath

10

Offaly

8

Westmeath

11

Wexford

10

Wicklow

11

Clare

16

Cork

43

Kerry

14

Limerick

15

Tipperary

14

Waterford

9

Galway

22

Leitrim

3

Mayo

10

Roscommon

11

Sligo

3

Cavan

5

Donegal

12

Monaghan

4

Full time care and attention not being provided

12

Dublin

3

Kildare

1

Clare

1

Cork

1

Limerick

1

Waterford

1

Mayo

1

Roscommon

1

Sligo

1

Monaghan

1

Care provider receiving UA or UB

13

Dublin

3

Meath

1

Cork

2

Kerry

1

Limerick

2

Waterford

1

Mayo

1

Sligo

1

Donegal

1

Care provider signing Live Register for PRSI credits

8

Dublin

1

Laois

1

Westmeath

1

Cork

1

Kerry

1

Limerick

1

Donegal

1

Monaghan

1

Care provider employed over 10 hours per week

16

Dublin

3

Kildare

1

Wexford

1

Clare

2

Cork

2

Kerry

2

Tipperary

1

Waterford

1

Mayo

1

Donegal

1

Monaghan

1

Care provider self-employed over 10 hours per week

7

Offaly

1

Westmeath

1

Clare

2

Cork

1

Galway

1

Donegal

1

Care provided for less than 6 months

3

Westmeath

1

Kerry

1

Donegal

1

Care not provided at inception of scheme (June)

5

Dublin

2

Clare

1

Galway

1

Monaghan

1

Respite Care Grant paid by Health Service

9

Dublin

1

Laois

1

Louth

2

Meath

2

Wicklow

1

Kerry

1

Donegal

1

Care recipient deceased

4

Dublin

1

Clare

1

Limerick

1

Waterford

1

Living in residential institution

2

Dublin

2

Failed to reply

1

Dublin

1

Withdrawn

3

Kilkenny

1

Cork

1

Donegal

1

Other

5

Louth

1

Westmeath

1

Mayo

1

Roscommon

1

Donegal

1

436

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

425 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if there is any arrangement in place to award an extra one week payment to pensioners from August 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32840/05]

In August 2005, the payment frequency for customers paid by electronic fund transfer, EFT, was moved from weekly in arrears to weekly in advance. This brought EFT payments into line with personalised pension order, PPO, books payable at post offices.

A once-off double payment was made to EFT pension and allowance customers in August 2005 to facilitate this change. The double payment consisted of one week's payment in arrears, which they would have normally received plus one week's payment in advance. These customers now receive their payments weekly in advance. Notification of the new arrangements and details of the period covered by the double payment were provided by my Department in advance to all the affected customers.

Social Welfare Appeals.

Michael Ring

Question:

426 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an oral hearing will be heard for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [32843/05]

There is no appeal pending in respect of the person indicated. However, an appeal is being processed in respect of his spouse.

The person applied for disability allowance in December 2004. In the course of investigating his entitlement it came to light that he and his spouse owned a farm. This had not been disclosed when his spouse made a claim for disability allowance. On the basis of this discovery the deciding officer made a revised decision on his spouse's claim, the effect of which was to reduce the rate of disability allowance in respect of the period 24 November 2004 to 21 June 2005. As a consequence the spouse had been overpaid €1,350.

The spouse appealed against this decision to the social welfare appeals office. An appeals officer has considered the case and is of the opinion that an oral hearing is necessary. The spouse will be notified of the time, date and venue of the hearing when these have been arranged.

The spouse is now in receipt of a qualified adult allowance in respect of the person concerned. The person has made a claim to be paid disability allowance in his own right and his application has been sent to a social welfare inspector for further investigation. A final decision on his entitlement will be made when this is to hand. Under social welfare legislation, decisions on claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Michael Ring

Question:

427 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason unemployment assistance has been stopped for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [32855/05]

To qualify for an unemployment payment a person must be available for and genuinely seeking full-time work. Following a review, a deciding officer disallowed the unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned from 2 November 2005, on the grounds that she was not available for or genuinely seeking full-time work. The person concerned stated that she had not looked for work and that she was not free to take up work as she has to mind her children. The person concerned has appealed this decision and her file is being sent to the independent social welfare appeals office. A decision will be made as soon as possible and she will be notified of the outcome. Under social welfare legislation, decisions on claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

428 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason senior citizens such as those at an address (details supplied) in Dublin 8 are not being awarded the fuel allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32895/05]

The aim of the national fuel scheme is to assist householders who are in receipt of long-term social welfare or health service executive payments to meet the cost of their heating needs during the winter season from October to April.

Residents of local authority accommodation where central heating is provided at a low or subsidised level are not eligible for the allowance. In a recent review of addresses at which heating is provided at low cost by Dublin City Council by my Department, it emerged that the persons concerned are residing in accommodation where subsidised heating is provided by Dublin City Council and they are therefore not entitled to the allowance.

Pension Provisions.

Paul McGrath

Question:

429 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if the Pensions Board has conducted an investigation into the operation of a pension scheme (details supplied) as a result of reports regarding the improper use of funds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32973/05]

The scheme in question is a defined benefit scheme. In 1991 and 1994, the scheme was split with the result that there are now three schemes, one for staff, one for middle management and one for senior executives. In 1996, a member trustee of the staff scheme complained to the Pensions Board about specific financial issues associated with the splitting of the scheme which the trustee believed led to a deficit in the pension fund and difficulties in obtaining information.

In October 1998, in a report to the then Minister, the Pensions Board indicated that it had received independent legal advice in relation to the trustee's concerns and concluded that there was no case for proceedings to be taken under the Pensions Act 1990. Following further representations, the Pensions Board agreed to conduct a further investigation.

In October 2000, three KPMG consultants were appointed under section 18 of the Pensions Act as authorised officers to conduct the investigation. In June 2002, the report was completed and concluded that there had been no breaches of the Pensions Act except for one unintentional breach. The report was made available to the trustees of the pension scheme as appropriate parties within the meaning of the Pensions Act. While My Department and I have no role or influence with regard to specific Pensions Board investigations, I am satisfied with the conclusions of the board and that there is no further action that the board or my Department can take in this matter.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

430 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his proposals to introduce a national waiver scheme for refuse charges for social welfare recipients; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32999/05]

The setting of waste management charges and the introduction of waivers in respect of waste charges is, as stated by my colleague the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government, a matter for the each local authority and a number have done so.

The introduction of a national social welfare scheme to address the issue is not considered feasible given the wide range of charging regimes and cost levels that exist in respect of waste management throughout the State. Any system put in place to assist people who rely on private domestic waste collection would have to be sensitive to the different local arrangements.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

431 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33020/05]

The five statutory agencies operating under the aegis of my Department are the Pensions Board, the Combat Poverty Agency, Comhairle, the social welfare tribunal, and the Family Support Agency. In addition, the Pensions Ombudsman comes under the remit of my Department. Appointments to State boards are generally made on the basis of the qualifications and suitability of the individuals concerned. Records are not maintained in relation to the information requested by the Deputy.

Question No. 432 answered with QuestionNo. 420.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

433 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if this question can be taken as an appeal for supplementary welfare and rent allowance which has been refused in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6 who has a dependent child; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33220/05]

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive. Neither I nor my Department has any function in relation to decisions on individual claims.

The Dublin and mid-Leinster area of the Health Service Executive has advised that, following a review of her entitlements, it determined that the person concerned was not entitled to supplementary welfare allowance. Her payment was terminated accordingly in September 2005.

The person concerned has made an appeal to the executive against the decision to disallow her claim. Her appeal is being assessed by a designated officer of the executive and she will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible.

Parking Regulations.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

434 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport the procedure for the issue of disabled person’s parking cards and the issuing bodies. [32387/05]

The Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997 empower local authorities, the Irish Wheelchair Association and the Disabled Drivers' Association to grant disabled person's parking permits. Permits are issued where the issuing body is satisfied that the applicant is suffering from a disability that prevents him or her from walking or causes undue hardship to the person in walking. The qualifying criterion therefore centres on the issue of mobility impairment and no specific medical condition is stipulated in the regulations. Disabled persons permits are valid for two years from the date of issue.

Road Network.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

435 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if he has received a figure from the National Roads Authority for the expected final cost of completing the primary route improvement programme set out in the national development plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32418/05]

The ten-year transport investment framework, Transport 21, now provides the strategic framework for the development of the national roads network. It provides for a more extensive upgrade programme than that provided for in the NDP. In these circumstances, separate costings for the completion of the primary route improvement programme provided for in the NDP have not been abstracted.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

436 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if 80% of the primary routes improvement programme will be completed by the end of 2006; if not, the level he anticipates will be completed by that date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32419/05]

The planning, design and implementation of national roads improvement projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority, NRA, and local authorities. I understand from the NRA that nearly 50% of the national primary routes from Dublin to the Border, Galway, Cork, Limerick and Waterford will be completed by the end of2006.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

437 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if he received a report from the National Roads Authority on the future management of road improvement works; if so, the actions he has taken on foot of this report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32420/05]

In July 2005, in responding to NRA proposals relating to arrangements needed for the better implementation of the national roads programme, I approved a significant increase in NRA staffing levels. I am satisfied that these additional resources will enable the NRA to improve the management and delivery of the significant programme of works under the national roads programme. The NRA is also pursuing some other proposals to improve implementation of the national roads programme.

Road Safety.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

438 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport the discussions he has had with van and truck car importers and manufacturers regarding improving safety features on these vehicles and utilising new technology to prevent reckless and dangerous driving; and if a common approach on this matter with his counterparts at EU level has been discussed. [32445/05]

The regulatory framework for vehicle standards is set at European level through a harmonised system of motor vehicle type-approval concerned with vehicle safety and environmental protection. These standards, which are given effect in EU directives, are adopted only after their detailed consideration and acceptance by the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers. The deliberative process for directives enables each member state to directly contribute through participation in the Council's technical working groups and at plenary Council meetings. The type-approval process provides for a collaborative approach at both official and ministerial levels in the setting of vehicle standards.

I have not had discussions with vehicle manufacturers or importers in this regard.

Departmental Expenditure.

John Deasy

Question:

439 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Transport the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32475/05]

My Department spent approximately €15,000 in 2002, €6,200 in 2003 and €19,900 in 2004 providing services through the Irish language. Detailed information sought by the Deputy is set out in the following table.

Breakdown of Expenditure

2002

2003

2004

Training

728

Nil

70

Translation

2,151

88

11,746

Advertising

17

20

135

Bilingual Signage (estimated)

279

6,100

3,403

Printing

11,879

Nil

4,577

Total

15,054

6,208

19,931

Road Safety.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

440 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Transport his views on implementing mandatory breathalyser testing at the scene of all serious and fatal car accidents here because the gardaí have discretionary powers in this procedure but there are regular serious and fatal car accidents on roads; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32484/05]

The Road Traffic Acts provide that a member of the Garda Síochána may require a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle to provide a preliminary breath specimen where the vehicle is involved in a road collision or where a garda considers that a road traffic offence has been committed, or where a garda forms the opinion that the person has consumed alcohol.

The purpose of preliminary roadside breath testing is to provide the gardaí with a facility to assist them in determining whether a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle has consumed alcohol. However, the Road Traffic Acts provide that a person may be arrested for a drink driving offence without recourse to a preliminary breath test. In particular, there may be circumstances, especially in the context of a road collision, where it may not be possible for a member of the gardaí to require that a person submit to a preliminary breath test.

Rail Network.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

441 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if, in view of the publication of the railway order for the Kildare route project, the project is included in the ten-year plan for funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32498/05]

CIE submitted an application for a railway order for the Kildare route project on 5 October under the terms of the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001. I have directed that a public inquiry be held into the application and have appointed Mr. Pat Butler SC as inspector to hold the inquiry. The capital cost of the project has been included in Transport 21, the ten-year capital investment framework for transport.

Rail Services.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

442 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if the proposals from Iarnród Éireann to electrify the Maynooth suburban rail line and the provision of a new train station at Spencer Dock, which will increase frequency on the Maynooth suburban rail line have been approved; the cost of same, the likely delivery date of the projects; the reason a separate business case is required for each individual project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32499/05]

A phased approach to the development of Maynooth suburban services is incorporated in Transport 21, the ten-year transport investment framework announced on 1 November. The city centre resignalling project will be completed in 2009. This will deliver four extra train paths per direction per hour, an increase from 12 to 16, into Connolly Station, which operates at capacity. At least one of these extra paths will be allocated initially to the Maynooth line. Later in 2009, the first phase of the Navan rail link will also be completed. This involves opening a spur off the Maynooth line from Clonsilla to Dunboyne and the construction of a new city centre station in the Docklands. When the new station is completed, Iarnród Eireann will operate western line services to Connolly and the new station in the interim period pending completion of the interconnector. This will allow for much-improved frequency patterns on the line.

As part of the interconnector project, the line as far as Maynooth will be electrified so that DART-standard service frequencies and capacities may be operated on the line. A programme for the acquisition of electric railcars for the additional DART services is also included in Transport 21. The interconnector project and associated electrification is scheduled for completion in 2015 Because this phased approach is designed to accommodate short, medium and long-term capacity demand on the Maynooth corridor, each project must stand on its own merits. For that reason, separate business cases for each individual project are required under the Department of Finance guidelines for capital appraisal. However, each business case will also consider the long-term return on the investment that will undoubtedly accrue as short-term benefits are optimised with the roll-out of the individual projects. Each project will be the subject of a procurement process and I am not prepared to give details of the costings included in Transport 21 in advance of receipt of tenders.

Air Services.

Michael Lowry

Question:

443 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if the Mid-West Regional Authority will be supported in its request that a full impact study be undertaken on the effects of open skies and the measures that will be required to meet the challenges of open skies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32507/05]

Michael Lowry

Question:

444 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if he has received correspondence (details supplied); his views on same. [32508/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 443 and 444 together.

The director of the Mid-West Regional Authority wrote to me on 24 October 2005 regarding open skies between Ireland and the US in the context of the EU-US aviation negotiations which are ongoing and particularly whether I would carry out an impact study on the effects of open skies.

The reply to the director states that I am aware of a number of recent reports such as the Brattle report for the European Commission, the report of the tourism policy review group to the Minister of Arts, Sport and Tourism and the Air Transport Users Council of the Chambers of Commerce of Ireland report into open skies, which all support moving to open skies with the US and which emphasise the significant benefits to Ireland when this happens. In light of this, I do not believe that a further impact study of this kind is required.

I have made it clear to both the US and the EU that the ongoing EU-US negotiations on an open skies agreement must take account of the need to provide an appropriate transition period for Shannon Airport while also securing early access to additional US destinations so that Ireland, in particular the mid-west region, can reap the benefits of an open skies policy.

Michael Lowry

Question:

445 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if he has been briefed on a Bill before the US Congress (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32509/05]

I understand that Congressman Smith has tabled an amendment to the Foreign Relations Authorization Act for the Fiscal Years 2006 and 2007, which is under consideration by the Houses of Congress in the US. This amendment calls for an economic impact study on the dual gateway policy.

The content of US legislation is a matter for the US Congress. However, several recent reports such as the Brattle Report for the European Commission, the Report of the Tourism Policy Review Group to the Minister of Arts, Sport and Tourism and the Air Transport Users Council of the Chambers of Commerce of Ireland Report into Open Skies all support moving to open skies with the US and emphasise the significant benefits to Ireland when this happens. In light of this, I do not believe that a further impact study of this kind is required.

The restructuring of the State airports, including Shannon Airport is intended to enhance their regional focus and I am encouraged by the close co-operation between the new Shannon Airport Authority and the other regional development bodies in the area. The recently announced Transport 21 ten-year plan for transport in Ireland will address the future infrastructural requirements of the mid west region. In particular, the plan will link Shannon Airport to the Atlantic road corridor, and will upgrade many of the national secondary routes in the vicinity of Shannon Airport. The plan also provides for the completion of the feasibility study of the Shannon rail link, which is examining linking Shannon Airport to Limerick and Galway. Transport 21 will therefore significantly boost Shannon Airport's catchment area in the west.

I have stated in previous replies, the development of an EU-US open-skies regime provides many opportunities for Shannon Airport to contribute to the development of the mid-west. The liberalisation of the aviation market between the EU and US will mean more, not fewer, opportunities for Shannon to develop new routes into North America.

It has been the consistent policy of this Government that any change in transatlantic arrangements will be accompanied by an appropriate transitional arrangement to enable a smooth phasing in of open skies with the US in the future.

Departmental Staff.

Richard Bruton

Question:

446 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the membership of his Department’s audit committee; the chairperson and the number of occasions on which it has met in the past 12 months and the agenda of the meetings. [32570/05]

The audit committee at the Department of Transport is comprised of the following members:

(1) John Lawlor, External Member

(2) Liam MacLaughlin, External Member

(3) Andy Cullen, Department of Transport

(4) Pat Mangan, Department of Transport

The chairperson is John Lawlor and the audit committee has met on four occasions in the past 12 months. Copies of the agendas follow.

Agenda for Audit Committee meeting

To be held on 3rd December 2004 in Room 2.08, 44 Kildare Street, Dublin 2, @ 9.45 a.m.

Distribution

Objective

Participants

John Lawlor, Chairperson, External Member

Liam MacLaughlin, External Member

Pat Mangan, Department of Transport

Andy Cullen, Department of Transport

Ciaran Whelan, Internal Audit Unit

Brendan Darcy, Internal Audit Unit

Stephen Moore, Secretary

1. Minutes from meeting of 4 June 2004

2. Adoption of Agenda

3. Introduction/Overview of IAU current position

4. IAU quality assurance review

5. Mullarkey overview and commentary by BD

6. Audit Reports/Reviews

—M50

—Heuston

—Code of Compliance

—Road Haulage Division

—T and S Follow-Up

—Reporting Formats

7. Update on other projects

—Systems Dossier

—Pilot Phase

—Remainder of project — deliverables/timeframe etc.

—IT Financial Systems

8. Discussion with C&AG representative

9. Work Programme 2004-05

—Plan for remainder of 2004

—Business Plan and Audit Plan for 2005

10. Reporting Relationships

—Audit Committee to Management Board and Secretary General

—Head of Internal Audit to Audit Committee, Management Board and Secretary General

11. AOB.

Agenda for Audit Committee meeting

To be held on 1 April 2005 in Room 2.08, 44 Kildare Street, Dublin 2, @ 9.45 a.m.

Distribution

Objective

Participants

John Lawlor, Chairperson, External Member

Liam MacLaughlin, External Member

Pat Mangan, Department of Transport

Andy Cullen, Department of Transport

Ciaran Whelan, Internal Audit Unit

Brendan Darcy, Advisor to IAU

Stephen Moore, Secretary

12. Minutes from meeting of 3 December 2004 (document AC/01/05)

13. Adoption of Agenda (document AC/02/05)

14. IAU progress to date (document AC/03/05)

15. Audit Reports/Reviews

—Code of Compliance —MB response for consideration (document AC/04/05)

—Road Haulage Division —Audit Report proposed for adoption (document AC/05/05)

—EU Audits Required —Verbal report/update

—Reporting Formats —For comment and agreement (document AC/06/05)

16. Update on other projects

—Follow-Up Policy —For comment and agreement (document AC/07/05)

—IAU Numbering Convention —For information (document AC/08/05)

—Issues Tracker —For comment and agreement (document AC/09/05)

—Systems Dossier —For information (document AC/10/05) —verbal report/update by B. Darcy

—Remainder of project — deliverables/timeframe etc.

—IT Financial systems —Verbal report/update

17. Work Programme 2004-05

—Plan for remainder of 2005 —For discussion

—AOB

Agenda for Audit Committee meeting

To be held on 13 June 2005 in Room 2.08, 44 Kildare Street, Dublin 2, @ 9.45 a.m.

Distribution

Objective

Participants

John Lawlor, Chairperson, Non-Executive Member

Liam MacLaughlin, Non-Executive Member

Pat Mangan, Department of Transport

Andy Cullen, Department of Transport

Ciaran Whelan, Internal Audit Unit

Stephen Moore, Secretary

18. Minutes from meeting of 1 April 2005 and matters arising (document AC/11/05)

19. Adoption of Agenda (document AC/12/05)

20. IAU progress to date and work programme for remainder of 2005 (document AC/13 /05)

21. Audit Reports/Reviews

—Code of Compliance —MB response for consideration (document AC/19 /05)

—Audit of system for processing of Capital Grants payable to CIE (subhead C5) (2005-1) —Audit Report proposed for adoption (document AC/14 /05)

—EU Audits Required —Verbal report/update

—IT Financial systems audit —Verbal report/update

22. Update on other projects

—Issues Tracker —For information (document AC/15/05)

—Systems Dossier —Report on project status (document AC/16 /05)

—Remainder of project — deliverables/timeframe etc.

—Letter from Chairman of Audit Committee to Sec. Gen. and reply (document AC/17/05 & AC/18/05)

—AOB

Agenda for Audit Committee meeting

To be held on 30 September 2005 in Room 2.08, 44 Kildare Street, Dublin 2, @ 9.45 a.m.

Distribution

Objective

Participants

John Lawlor, Chairperson, Non-Executive Member

Liam MacLaughlin, Non Executive Member

Pat Mangan, Department of Transport

Andy Cullen, Department of Transport

Ciaran Whelan, Internal Audit Unit

Stephen Moore, Secretary

23. Minutes from meeting of 13 June 2005 and matters arising (document AC/20/05)

24. Adoption of Agenda (document AC/21/05)

25. IAU progress to date and work programme for remainder of 2005 (document AC/22 /05)

26. Update on CAPEX Cross-Cutting Team —verbal update by A. Cullen

27. Audit Reports/Reviews

—IT Financial systems audit (2005-13) —Audit Report proposed for adoption (document AC/23/05)

—Audit of system for Procurement by —Audit Report proposed for adoption Cost Centre B01 under subheads (document AC/24/05) A05 (Office Machinery and Other Office Supplies) and A06 (Office Premises Expenses) of the Administrative Budget (2005-2)

—Finance Unit — processing of —Audit Report proposed for adoption payments (2005-4) (document AC/25/05)

—Road Haulage Division —Audit Report proposed for adoption — Cash receipts in respect of (document AC/26/05) road transport licence fees (2005-8)

—Reports of Audits 2005-6 and 2005-7 will also be presented if available in time

—Update on recommendations —For information and comment — 3.3 and 3.4 of Audit of system (documents AC/27/05 and AC/28/05) for processing of Capital Grants payable to CIE (subhead C5) (2005-1)

—EU Audits Required —Verbal report/update

28. Update on other projects

—Issues Tracker —For information (document AC/29/05) — Any responses received on follow up process will be included

29. Discussion regarding invitation to C&AG to attend December meeting

—AOB

National Development Plan.

Richard Bruton

Question:

447 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which the projects identified in the economic and social infrastructure element of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 have been completed; the cost of the elements that have been completed; the way in which this compared to the original assessment of their cost; the elements and their associated cost which have been completed by way of PPP. [32571/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

448 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which projects identified in the economic and social infrastructure element of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 have yet to be completed; the expenditure to date on these elements; the expected cost of completing them; the way in which the projected cost at completion compares with the original projection; the elements and their associated cost which have been completed by way of PPP; and the projected expenditures and years in which they will be incurred to complete the remaining projects. [32574/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 447 and 448 together.

The economic and social infrastructure operational programme, ESIOP, is one of six main operational programmes in the National Development Plan, Community Support Framework for Ireland 2000-2006.

The ESIOP provides for total investment of over €26 billion under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 in six main priorities: national roads; public transport; environmental infrastructure; sustainable energy; social and affordable housing; and health facilities. Of the total investment, the EU is providing €1.6 billion through the Structural and Cohesion Funds, the bulk of which, €1.04 billion, is from the European Regional Development Fund.

The original investment envisaged under the programme is:

Sector

€ millions

National Roads

6,748

Public Transport

3,051

Environmental Infrastructure

3,853

Sustainable Energy

223

Housing

9,108

Health Facilities

3,036

Total

26,019

The implementation of the programme is monitored in accordance with the provisions of the EU Structural Funds regulations. The managing authority for the programme is the Department of Transport.

Monitoring takes place at programme, priority and measure levels. Implementing Departments and agencies are required to prepare and make reports of financial and physical progress at priority and measure levels twice yearly, through the ESIOP managing authority, to a high level monitoring committee, chaired by the Department, which includes representatives of the implementing Departments and agencies, the European Commission, the regional assemblies and the social partners. The managing authority, in turn, makes a report twice yearly, at programme and priority level, to the over-arching NDP community social fund monitoring committee chaired by the Department of Finance.

The most recent meeting of the ESIOP monitoring committee which took place on Friday, 28 October 2005 considered progress up to 30 June 2005. The figures available indicate that cumulative overall expenditure on the programme from its inception on 1 January 2000 up to 30 June 2005 was €20,582.7 million. This means that 79% of the level of total investment envisaged under the programme was achieved by 30 June of this year.

Cumulative spend in the five and a half year period to 30 June 2005 at priority level was:

ESIOP Cumulative Expenditure 1/1/2000 to 30/06/05 by Priority.

Priority

Total

€million

National Roads

5,524.9

% of Forecast

99%

Public Transport

2,715.7

% of Forecast

98%

Environmental Infrastructure

2,569.7

% of Forecast

79%

Sustainable Energy

52.6

% of Forecast

29%

Housing

7,342.8

% of Forecast

96%

Health Facilities

2,374.8

% of Forecast

94%

Technical Assistance

2.2

ESIOP Total

20,582.7

% of Forecast

94%

Note: The forecast is for the six-year period 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2005.

The ESIOP was the subject of a mid-term evaluation in 2003 which resulted in some re-allocation of monies between priorities. In recognition of performance up to that time, the European Commission decided to allocate the performance reserve for Ireland, €134 million to the ESIOP. An update evaluation of the ESIOP was recently carried out in compliance with the relevant EU regulations. The report of that evaluation, by Indecon, was presented at the most recent meeting of the ESIOP monitoring committee on 28 October 2005.

The report will be available on the Department's website shortly and a copy will be provided directly to the Deputy. The overall conclusions were that the significant investment of Exchequer and ERDF funding to date has led to notable achievements and improvements in physical infrastructure. Some of the main highlights include: 35% of the major inter-urban road network is complete to the required standard and given work in progress this should rise to 50% by 2007; there is significant work on other parts of the road network with the percentage level service D on other national primary routes equalling 90%; capacity on the DART and other suburban rail in Dublin has increased significantly; the two LUAS lines are completed adding an additional 12,500 peak morning capacity; Dublin Bus capacity has been enhanced and there have also been improvements in the QBC network; the rail safety programme has renewed 528.7 km of track and undertaken significant other enhancement works; 67 new mainline carriages have been purchased which will lead to further improvements in inter-city rail services; there has been significant progress in enhancing the water and waste water infrastructure with reductions in pollution and enhanced compliance with the water quality directives; 89 waste water schemes with a population equivalent of over 130,000 have been funded by the ESIOP. By 30 June 2005, €306 million of private finance had been provided by the private sector to the national roads PPP programme.

I gave a considerable amount of detail on capital projects for which my Department has responsibility in response to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 101 and 259 on 19 October 2005.

The provision of information on specific projects in the health and environment areas is a matter for the Ministers responsible for these Departments.

Rail Network.

Denis Naughten

Question:

449 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport if he will meet a delegation wishing to re-open the Athlone to Mullingar rail line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32587/05]

On 2 November 2005, I met a delegation from the midland railway action group accompanied by local representatives and headed by Senator O'Rourke, to discuss the matter of the re-opening of the Athlone to Mullingar railway line. At our meeting it was agreed that the group would revert to me with a detailed proposal supported by a coherent, complementary land use and settlement strategy and funding options. The group promised to submit such a proposal in six months' time. I will review any such proposal when submitted.

Decentralisation Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

450 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the assessment of the financial implications of decentralisation which have been carried out and, in particular, if the financial implications of the cost of training and additional staff during the on-the-job training in period; the cost of new recruitment to meet gaps in suitable applicants for the decentralised location; the cost of additional promotions to fill the positions required; if the cost of delays in redeploying staff which opt not to move with their post and cost of retraining and redeployment have been identified in respect of the proposed moves (details supplied). [32603/05]

Under the decentralisation programme, 200 posts in Bus Éireann are due to transfer to Mitchelstown and 90 posts in the National Roads Authority are due to transfer to Ballinasloe. Up-to-date decentralisation implementation plans are due to be submitted from all agencies by 1 December 2005 and these plans will then be reviewed.

Richard Bruton

Question:

451 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if the audit committee of his Department or its agencies have reviewed the risk management assessment of the proposed decentralisation proposals (details supplied); if it has approved the assessment or made any recommendations for revising the risk assessment or changing the proposed risk mitigation strategies. [32611/05]

Under the decentralisation programme, 200 posts in Bus Éireann are due to transfer to Mitchelstown and 90 posts in the National Roads Authority are due to transfer to Ballinasloe. Up-to-date decentralisation implementation plans are due to be submitted from all agencies by 1 December 2005 and these plans will then be reviewed.

Road Traffic Offences.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

452 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Transport his plans to review the penalty points scheme in view of the road fatalities rate having been raised to their pre-penalty points levels; his proposals for more rigid enforcement and integration with Northern Ireland’s points scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32854/05]

The operation of the penalty points system commenced with effect from 31 October 2002 in respect of speeding offences and was subsequently extended to apply to the offences of driving without insurance, careless driving and offences relating to the non-wearing of seat belts. Since its introduction, more than 265,100 drivers have incurred penalty points.

The introduction of penalty points coincided with a significant reduction in road deaths. While the scale of reduction in deaths realised in the months immediately following the introduction of the system has not been maintained, the number of road deaths annually over the past three years is significantly lower than the levels recorded in preceding years. In the first three years since its introduction, the number of deaths as a result of road collisions fell by 136 by comparison to the previous three years.

The extension of the system to other offences under the Road Traffic Acts will take place as soon as the relevant IT systems being developed by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda are completed. I am advised by my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, that the systems in question will be operational by April next year at the latest.

The North-South work programme, which was agreed by the North South Ministerial Council, included a commitment to examine the mutual recognition of penalty points between the Republic of Ireland and the North. However, in addition to the fact that separate penalty point systems operate in the two jurisdictions on this island, the system that operates in Northern Ireland differs from that applying in Great Britain. For that reason, it was agreed early in 2003 that it would be more appropriate to pursue the question of mutual recognition of penalty points on the basis of the operation of the three systems and that it would also be more appropriate that it would be dealt with under the auspices of the British-Irish Council. As Northern Ireland has the lead role for transport matters in the BIC, the authorities in that jurisdiction are taking the lead in considering this issue. The development of a system of mutual recognition of penalty points presents complex legal questions and will require the negotiation of a bilateral agreement between the two Governments and probably the passage of primary legislation to support such an agreement. Enforcement of road traffic legislation is a matter for the Garda Síochána.

State Airports.

Pat Breen

Question:

453 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport further to the similar information provided by way of reply to Question No. 343 of 18 November 2003 in relation to Dublin Airport, the respective sizes of the first section of the obstacle surface on the approaches to runways 17/35 and 07/25 at Cork Airport and the approaches to runways 06/24 and 13/31 at Shannon Airport, with particular reference to inner and outer widths, slope, divergence and length; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32874/05]

The Deputy will recall that when I gave the information in November 2003, it was given in conjunction with information about red zones and the public safety zones being proposed by consultants employed by my Department and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The regulation of obstacle surfaces at the approaches to runways is entirely a matter for the Irish Aviation Authority which will be happy to provide the relevant information to the Deputy.

Public Transport.

Richard Bruton

Question:

454 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the number of passengers carried by mainline rail, suburban rail, DART, Luas, Dublin Bus and provincial bus in 2004 and to date in 2005 and the same period in 2004. [32931/05]

The information requested by the Deputy has been obtained from Iarnród Eireann, Dublin Bus and the Railway Procurement Agency and is as follows:

No. of Passengers Carried

Year-End 2004

January to October 2004

January to October 2005

m

m

m

Mainline Rail

11.4

9

9

Suburban Rail/DART

23.2

16.9

19.1

Luas

6.6

3.4

17.6

Dublin Bus

149.8

112

111

Provincial Bus (excluding Schools)

48

31.5

31.6

Richard Bruton

Question:

455 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the number of passengers carried by Dublin Bus, suburban rail, DART and Luas in the morning peak hour in 2004; and the operating costs and revenues in respect of its operation in 2004 and projected for 2005. [32932/05]

The information requested by the Deputy which has been obtained from Dublin Bus, Iarnród Eireann and the Railway Procurement Agency is as follows:

No. of Passengers (MPH)

Operating Costs

Revenues

Projected Operating Costs

Projected Revenues

2004

2004

2004

2005

2005

€m

€m

€m

€m

Dublin Bus

53,000

240

177

244

182

Suburban Rail/ DART

39,000*

60.8(excl. interest)

37.5

58(excl. interest)

41

Luas

12,000

10.3

8.8

26.8

26.3*

*This figure excludes commuters from areas such as Kildare and Portlaoise which are classified with the mainline data.

Consultancy Contracts.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

456 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the consultancies which were employed by his Department in assisting with the formation of the Transport 21 plan; the work carried out by each; the amounts paid to each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32967/05]

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

457 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the consideration which was given in the drawing up of the Transport 21 strategy to improving cross-Border road and rail links; the initiatives contained in the strategy to facilitate this; the start and completion dates for such projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32968/05]

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

458 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if any of the consultancies involved in the drawing up of Transport 21 examined cross-Border road and rail linkages and the future needs of the Border and north-west region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32969/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 456 to 458, inclusive, together.

Transport 21 is based on the work carried out by my Department and the agencies under the aegis of the Department. The work within the Department was carried out by a small team of officials, guided by and reporting to the Minister and management board. The Department did not engage any consultants to specifically assist or advise it in developing Transport 21. However, it did benefit from the advice of Goodbody Economic Consultants, which were engaged before work on the investment framework commenced, to review the business cases submitted by Iarnród Éireann in support of various projects, including its greater Dublin integrated rail network proposals, most of which are included in Transport 21.

One of the key strategies adopted under Transport 21 was the development consistent with the national spatial strategy of a high quality national transport network with improved regional and local public transport networks and services. The national spatial strategy in turn took account of spatial planning in Northern Ireland.

A central theme of Transport 21 is connectivity, including connectivity with the transport network of Northern Ireland and connectivity with the Border and north-west regions. Transport 21 addresses this, in particular in relation to road connections, by providing for the upgrading of the strategic roads linking Dublin with Northern Ireland and the north west, and the upgrading of the Atlantic corridor running from Letterkenny-Lifford to Waterford via Sligo, Galway, Limerick and Cork. Relevant projects included in Transport 21 are the completion of the M1 to the Border, the upgrading of the N2, the N3, N14 and N15. Targeted improvements to a number of national secondary routes, which are particularly important for regional development, will also be undertaken. This work includes the improvement of the Donegal coastal route, the N56, together with the other coastal routes along the western coast.

Up to 2010, the main focus in the roads sector is on the completion of the motorways linking Dublin with the provincial cities and with Belfast. From 2010 to 2015, the focus switches to the other key national primary and secondary routes. In the period from 2006 to 2010 a number of key road projects on the strategic routes to Northern Ireland are due to be completed, including the M1, Dundalk-Border; the N2, Monaghan bypass, Castleblaney bypass, Ashbourne bypass-M50 Junction; the N3, Clonee-Kells; the N15, Bundoran-Ballyshannon bypass; and the N55, Cavan bypass link.

In relation to the rail network, substantial investment has already been made over the past decade in the Dublin-Belfast railway line. Transport 21 provides for the removal of speed restrictions on the Belfast-Dublin-Cork railway lines south of the Border to reduce journey times on these routes further.

State Airports.

Dan Boyle

Question:

459 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport if an indoor area of Shannon Airport has been set aside as a smoking area for the use of US army personnel; the reason such an exemption exists; and if Irish workers are involved in cleaning such an area. [32971/05]

The management and operation of Shannon Airport, including compliance with the Public Health (Tobacco) (Amendment) Act 2004, is a day-to-day matter for the Dublin Airport Authority, the DAA, and I have no function in relation to the matter. However, I am informed by the DAA that there is no indoor area set aside as a smoking area in Shannon Airport. The company has, however, provided an external smoking area for use by any passengers using Shannon who wish to smoke. I understand from the DAA that this external facility is in full compliance with the Public Health (Tobacco) (Amendment) Act 2004 and is frequently inspected by environmental health officers of the HSE.

Departmental Programmes.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

460 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the costs incurred by or on behalf of his Department arising from the launch of the Transport 21 programme at Dublin Castle on 1 November 2005, including hire of venue and associated costs; cost of printing, videos, maps and graphics; if outside public relations companies or consultants were hired for the event; if so, the companies and the cost. [32998/05]

No public relations company was used for the launch of Transport 21. There were no costs for the use of Dublin Castle. Costs were incurred for catering at Dublin Castle, producing backdrops, graphics, associated printing and producing a video. The required public procurement procedures were complied with in accordance with the Government procurement guidelines.

Webmaster.ie was the company that produced the video which cost €18,750 plus VAT. Details of the other costs incurred will be made available to the Deputy when invoices have been received and payments finalised.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

461 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Transport the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33021/05]

The question of whether an individual is disabled or not has not been a determining factor in appointments which have been made to State boards under the aegis of my Department. Consequently it is not known if there are any individuals with disabilities on the boards of these bodies.

Decentralisation Programme.

Denis Naughten

Question:

462 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the number of applications in each grade which have been received from civil servants wishing to decentralise to the Railway Safety Commission in Ballinasloe; the number of positions at each grade required to facilitate the decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33037/05]

Under the decentralisation programme, 20 posts in the Railway Safety Commission are due to transfer to Ballinasloe. An up-to-date decentralisation implementation plan is due to be submitted by 1 December 2005.

The Railway Safety Commission grading structure, which is based on a human resource requirement study conducted by independent consultants in 2000, comprises technical posts at engineer grade one and two, principal officer and assistant secretary grades and administrative posts at executive officer and higher executive officer grades. The following table shows the number of applications in each grade which have been received from civil servants wishing to decentralise to the Railway Safety Commission in Ballinasloe. In addition, two applications have been received from public servants.

No.

Civil Service Clerk (Clerk 1)

1

Clerical Officer

1

Executive Officer

2

Total

4

Denis Naughten

Question:

463 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the number of applications in each grade which have been received from public servants wishing to decentralise to the National Roads Authority in Ballinasloe; the number of positions at each grade required to facilitate the decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33038/05]

Under the decentralisation programme, 90 posts in the National Roads Authority are due to transfer to Ballinasloe. The information requested is outlined in the following table.

Number of positions at each grade to facilitate decentralisation

Number of applications in each grade received from public servants

Chief Executive

1

Principal Advisor Higher

3

Clerical Officer

10

3

Executive Officer

11

Higher Executive Officer

9

1

Senior Project Manager (Senior Advisor Level 1)

12

Project Manager (Engineer Grade 1)

20

Engineer Grade 2

14

Engineer Grade 3

1

Lab Attendant

1

Lab Technician

4

Technician

4

1

Total

90

There are also two public servant applicants who do not have a corresponding grade which brings the overall total of public servant applications to seven. In addition, there have been 59 applications from civil servants to date.

Road Network.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

464 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Transport the way in which the new ten-year plan will assist access from Dublin to County Donegal in the context of links to Letterkenny and Inishowen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33082/05]

A central theme of Transport 21 is connectivity. Transport 21 will improve the connectivity within County Donegal and between that county and the other western counties and Dublin. In terms of linkages with Dublin, Transport 21 provides for the upgrading of the strategic roads from Dublin to the north west. This includes the upgrading of the N2, N3, and N14. The upgrading of these strategic routes will greatly facilitate easier and safer travel between County Donegal and Dublin.

Departmental Agencies.

Liam Aylward

Question:

465 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will liaise with the Commissioners for Charitable Donations and Bequests for Ireland on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny to finalise the sale of a property in County Kilkenny. [32900/05]

The Commissioners of Charitable Donations and Bequests for Ireland are appointed by the Government under the Charities Act 1961 with a mandate to provide services to trustees of charities and to carry out the intentions of persons making donations and bequests to charity. As the commissioners are independent in the exercise of their statutory duties, I do not propose to comment on the specific case raised by the Deputy. However, I have arranged to pass on the Deputy's query to the commissioners for their attention.

Security of the Elderly.

Willie Penrose

Question:

466 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if security pendant alarms and other such personal security items are available free of charge to persons over 80 years of age; if not, the reason; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33004/05]

The scheme of community support for older people encourages and assists the community's support for older people by means of a community-based grant scheme to improve the security of its older members. The scheme is administered by local community and voluntary groups with the support of my Department. The scheme is open to people aged 65 and over who have a genuine need for assistance under this scheme. Maximum individual grants are provided under the scheme as follows: €300 in respect of the once-off installation cost of socially monitored alarms; 150 in respect of door locks, window locks and door chains; €150 in respect of security lighting; and €50 in respect of smoke alarms.

Irish Language.

John Deasy

Question:

467 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32476/05]

It has been a long-standing policy of my Department to ensure that customers who wish to conduct their business through a choice of English or Irish can do so as far as practicable. Expenditure on providing services through Irish and English arises from our existing commitments to our customers and is met from our administrative budget. It is not possible, therefore, to readily separate the bilingual or Irish language dimension from the overall cost of running my Department and its service delivery. In this context and as part of its commitment to the principles of quality customer service prior to the coming into effect of the Official Languages Act 2003, almost all classes of documentation intended for public dissemination, including advertisements, are published in both Irish and English and signage is provided in Irish or bilingually. Staff in many of my Department's organisational units are in a position to provide services through Irish or English, as required by the customer.

My Department, in September 2004, published its scheme under the Official Languages Act for the period 2004 to 2007. The scheme details specific additional commitments with regard to improved delivery of the services of the Department through the Irish language. All of these commitments, both long-standing and new, are being delivered from within the overall budgets available to my Department in the relevant years.

Rural Social Scheme.

Michael Ring

Question:

468 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo can be allowed to remain on a rural social scheme when the contract is due for renewal. [32656/05]

The conditions of eligibility for which need to fulfilled in order to participate in the RSS are that applicants must be in receipt of farm assist or have been allocated a valid herd or flock number from the Department of Agriculture and Food and be in receipt of unemployment assistance or unemployment benefit if previously on CE or disability allowance; or be self-employed fisherpersons on a fishing boat which has been entered in the register of fishing boats or have been issued with a fishing licence for fishing for salmon at sea from the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and be in receipt of unemployment assistance or unemployment benefit if previously on CE or disability allowance.

The person in question, prior to commencement on this scheme, was signing for credited social insurance contributions — credits — with the Department of Social and Family Affairs. Credited contributions are notional social insurance contributions which are awarded to an insured person in situations where pay related social insurance payment is not being paid by that person. My Department has established, following legal advice, that a person signing for credits has no underlying entitlement to participate on the scheme. To be eligible, a person must meet the aforementioned criteria. The participant in question can re-apply for a place on the scheme on expiry of the current contract. Any such application will be considered for eligibility by reference to these criteria.

Alternative Energy Projects.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

469 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his proposals to have research carried out into the viability of ethanol production as a potential rural and Gaeltacht industry to the benefit of employment and farm income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32690/05]

The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources is responsible for the promotion and development of renewable energy, including biofuels. In 2004, the Finance Act 1999 was amended to provide for the introduction of a scheme for mineral oil tax relief for biofuels. A scheme under the Act was launched by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources in April 2005. A total of 34 applications were received under the call for proposals by the closing date and eight projects were awarded excise relief under the scheme. Excise relief of €6 million will be allowed for the successful projects over a two-year period to 2007. The scheme was open to applicants from all areas, including rural and Gaeltacht areas and is an initial measure designed to stimulate market development.

Under Sustainable Energy Ireland's renewable energy research, development and demonstration programme, capital grant aid is also available for biofuels market demonstration projects in the pure plant oil, biodiesel and bioethanol categories. Funding of almost €250,000 has already been awarded to support engine modifications of up to 100 vehicles and provide plant and monitoring equipment.

In addition, SEI has provided grant aid of €40,000 to Teagasc for a study to establish oil quality testing procedures for pure plant oil. This study will be critical to building market confidence. SEI also provided funding for the publication of a resource study on recovered vegetable oil and animal fats and study on quality assurance for rapeseed oil as a vehicle fuel.

In 2004, SEI published a liquid biofuels strategy study for Ireland which examined the full range of options and potential supports for liquid biofuels development in Ireland. I understand that the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources has had contact with the Minister for Finance about the possible scope for scaling up fiscal support for biofuels. In the circumstances, there are no plans in this Department to carry out further research in this area. However, as part of the Department's overall remit with regard to Gaeltacht and rural development matters, we continue to maintain a close interest in these matters.

Calafoirt agus Céanna.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

470 D'fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an eol dó go bhfuil géarghá le hobair dheisiúcháin a dhéanamh ar ché Theach an Bhaile, Oileán Ghabhla, Dún na nGall, agus an gceadóidh sé deontas don obair. [32887/05]

Tá iarratas faighte ag mo Roinn ar chúnamh chun crann tógála a insealbhú agus oibreacha feabhsúcháin a chur i gcrích ag Cé Theach an Bhaile, nó Cé Thrá na mBláithín mar a thugtar uirthi chomh maith, ar Oileán Ghabhla. Déanfar an t-iarratas seo a mheas i gcomhthéacs an airgid a bheidh ar fáil dom le caitheamh faoin gclár mionoibreacha do na hoileáin i 2006 agus na n-éileamh éagsúil ar an airgead sin.

Forbairt Phobail.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

471 D'fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil deontas iarrtha ar an Roinn don halla in Anagaire, Dún na nGall, agus an gceadóidh sé deontas chun an obair riachtanach a dhéanamh. [32888/05]

Tá iarratas sa chás seo faoi bhráid mo Roinnse ó 2002. Tá eolas breise iarrtha ar choiste an halla ar ocáidíéagsúla ó fuarthas an t-iarratas agus rinneadh mionphlé ar na díotha atá ag teastáil ón Roinn ag cruinniú leo i Márta 2003. Táthar fós ag fanacht ar freagra ón gcoiste. Chomh luath agus a bheidh an t-eolas sin ar fáil déanfar an t-iarratas a mheas tuilleadh.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

472 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33022/05]

No persons with disabilities have so far been appointed to boards under the aegis of my Department.

Community Development.

Denis Naughten

Question:

473 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 837 of 28 September 2005, if he will approve funding under the 2005 programme of grants for locally based community and voluntary organisations for a group (details supplied) in County Roscommon; when he intends to make a decision on the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33036/05]

The process of assessment of the large number of applications received under the programme of grants for locally based community and voluntary organisations is nearing completion and I expect to decide on qualifying applications over the coming weeks.

Forestry Sector.

Michael Ring

Question:

474 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if Coillte is a private company, in view of the fact that the EU states it is not a private company, yet her Department claims that it is; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32749/05]

Coillte Teoranta was established under the Forestry Act 1988. Section 9(1) of the Forestry Act 1988 provides that "The Minister, after consultation with the Minister for Finance, shall cause a private company conforming to the conditions laid down in this Act to be formed and registered under the Companies Acts." Coillte Teoranta was accordingly formed and is, therefore, a private company under Irish legislation.

The EU statement mentioned by the Deputy refers to a judgment of the EU Court of Justice in relation to the payment of afforestation premium. In its judgment, and for the purposes of the particular EU legislation concerned, the court took the view that Coillte should be construed as a public undertaking.

Departmental Agencies.

Joe Higgins

Question:

475 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will designate a specific agency to take overall responsibility for monitoring the health database of animals living near a plant (details supplied) in County Limerick. [32871/05]

From 1995 to 1998 the reported animal disease problems in the Askeaton area were the subject of a comprehensive multi-agency investigation under the auspices of the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA. The report of this investigation, which was published in August 2001, concluded that although a small number of farms experienced notable difficulties, there was no evidence of serious or unusual problems in the wider Askeaton area.

There is no objective evidence available to my Department to suggest that there has been any change in the general animal health situation in the area since the final report was published. On that basis I do not believe that there are grounds which would justify the designation of a specific agency to take overall responsibility for monitoring the health database of animals in the area in question. Where individual problems occur, as would be the case anywhere in the country, the veterinary laboratory service of my Department is available to support local veterinary practitioners and their clients and this will remain the case.

With regard to Askeaton, the regional veterinary laboratory in Limerick provides services free of charge where the private veterinary practitioner deems tests to be necessary.

Grant Payments.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

476 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding an application for installation aid where all the necessary documentation has been supplied. [32410/05]

The documentation forwarded by the person concerned in response to my Department's written request for additional information in support of his application for installation aid is being examined at present. The applicant will be notified in due course of the outcome of this examination.

Departmental Expenditure.

John Deasy

Question:

477 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the expenditure by her Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32477/05]

The expenditure by my Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004 is as follows:

Training*

Translation

Advertising

Signage

Other

2002

1,980.00

482.18

Nil

Nil

Nil

2003

1,440.00

6,250.86

1,659.63

Nil

6,591.00

2004

2,070.00

18,835.57

2,604.56

1,030.00

13,673.79

* Gaeleagras Courses.

Genetically Modified Organisms.

John Perry

Question:

478 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will make a statement on correspondence (details supplied). [32545/05]

In Ireland responsibility for genetically modified foods comes under the aegis of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland and the Minister for Health and Children, while responsibility for the deliberate release of genetically modified organisms into the environment rests with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. My Department has responsibility for animal feed containing genetically modified organisms and the actual cultivation and coexistence of approved genetically modified crops.

In recent years a considerable amount of new legislation has been adopted by the European Parliament and the Council of Ministers aimed at strengthening the controls governing the approval, cultivation and use of genetically modified products and thereby ensuring that the highest standards are in place from a food safety and environmental aspect throughout the community.

The establishment of the European Food Safety Authority has provided further safeguards in that it gives the citizens of the EU an independent scientific body with responsibility for the assessment, advice and communication of any risk associated with genetically modified organisms.

With regard to the Commission decision taken on 31 August, the authorisation granted for GT73 oilseed rape for use in animal feed was in accordance with the procedures set out in Directive 2001/18/EC which comes within the remit of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

While EU legislation governing genetically modified organisms is binding in all member states of the EU, member states are given subsidiarity in relation to coexistence between genetically modified and non-genetically modified crops, where they are allowed to draw up their own rules based on European Commission guidelines.

In 2004 an interdepartmental group comprised of representatives of the Department of Agriculture and Food, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Teagasc and the Environmental Protection Agency, was established to examine issues related to coexistence and to draw up rules for coexistence arrangements in Ireland. The group has recently submitted its report and recommendations. In drawing up the recommendations contained in the report, the group took on board the full range of factors surrounding the genetically modified organisms issue, that is, the principles laid down in the Commission guidelines on genetically modified organisms, coexistence, Government policy on genetically modified organisms, scientific issues, new developments in genetically modified organisms technology, the Irish crop production system and farm infrastructure and liability.

I will publish the report shortly and will invite observations on the recommendations in the report.

Disadvantaged Areas Scheme.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

479 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan will be awarded the disadvantaged areas payments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32594/05]

An application under the 2005 single payment scheme-disadvantaged areas scheme was received from the person named on 16 May 2005. Following processing of this application, an eligibility issue was identified regarding one of the parcels claimed. This has now been resolved and payment in respect of the disadvantaged areas scheme will issue shortly.

Environmental Policy.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

480 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food, further to Parliamentary Question No. 474 of 30 June 2005, if her attention has been drawn to the recently launched UK Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution, Special Report on Crop Spraying and the Health of Residents and Bystanders (details supplied); if she will review the limiting of the time for crop spraying near to bee-keeping operations to the period from sundown to sunrise in view of the special report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32612/05]

I am aware of the report and of the concerns raised with regard to potential risks associated with crop spraying. The report, commissioned in June 2004, was published on 22 September. The report reflects public concerns brought to the attention of the Royal Commission, recognises the lack of evidence of causality and recommends that risk assessment techniques and methodologies be reviewed and that additional monitoring and health surveillance be undertaken.

The arrangements in place in this country for the assessment of risks for bystanders who may be exposed when crops are sprayed take account of the most extreme exposures likely to occur and are based on consideration of health effects on all sectors of the community, including vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. Consideration is being given to the use of probabilistic approaches for the estimation of potential exposure workers and the public, an approach that is recommended in the report. The arrangements in place for the protection of bees are based upon identification of risks that may arise and the prescription of appropriate precautions to be followed when potential risks arise.

The arrangements in place will be reviewed in the light of the instruments adopted following the updating of the existing EU regulatory system for plant protection products and the adoption of the Commission's proposal on the sustainable use of plant protection products. The Commission proposals are likely to be tabled in Council and Parliament in the second quarter of 2006. The negotiations on the Commission's proposals will cover all aspects of the potential impact of plant protection products on human and animal health and on the environment

Farm Waste Management.

Paul McGrath

Question:

481 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if an on-farm reed bed to dispose of run-off from a farmyard which meets all the specifications as laid down by the local authority and complies with all environmental regulations should exclude a person from participating in the REP scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32660/05]

In the autumn of 2003, my Department, together with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, set up a technical working group to determine whether earth-lined stores, out-wintering pads and constructed wetlands or reed beds should have a place in agricultural practice.

The working group has taken expert advice from a variety of researchers and other sources and has been preparing detailed specifications and guidance documents for each of these systems. The specifications and guidance documents for the earth-lined stores have been submitted to my Department and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and are being considered.

The guidance documents and specifications are being finalised for constructed wetlands and a recommendation will be made to the two Departments as soon as this work is complete. It would be improper to allow the use of constructed wetlands prior to the reporting of the technical working group on the system.

The rural environment protection scheme, REPS, is designed to be of a higher standard than good farming practice and must set best practice in the areas of slurry storage and soiled water treatment. It would not, therefore, be appropriate that this system be allowed in REPS areas prior to the report of the technical working group on the matter.

Grant Payments.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

482 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan will receive his area aid based payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32676/05]

An application under the 2005 single payment scheme, SPS, was received from the person named on 16 May 2005. My Department wrote to him on 11 October 2005, requesting that maps he omitted to include with the SPS application be provided. Following receipt of these maps on 17 October 2005, an eligibility issue was identified regarding one of the parcels claimed. My Department wrote to the person again on 4 November 2005. On receipt of a reply, the matter will be processed further.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

483 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if payment of the EU single payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Cork by post instead of direct lodgement to his bank account, as was his original choice. [32876/05]

The person named should write directly to the accounts division of my Department at Farnham Street, Cavan, where the request will be processed without delay.

Milk Quota.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

484 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason an application by a person (details supplied) in County Offaly was not considered under the scheme for the allocation of the 32 million litre scheme in view of the fact that they were within the criteria laid down by her Department; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that 17% of the dairy herd was lost in 1979; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32901/05]

In 2002, the person named applied for additional milk quota under the 32 million litre scheme in the animal disease category. Applicants in this category were required to prove that more than 10% of the dairy herd was lost due to certain diseases in 1978, 1979 or 1980 and that milk deliveries in any of the years 1978, 1979 or 1980 were higher than the sum of the initial 1984 quota allocation plus any allocations from the national reserve. As the application did not satisfy all the conditions, the applicant was not eligible for an allocation.

In 2003, an appeal was received in this case and documentation was provided that indicated that more than 10% of the dairy herd was lost due to animal disease in the period 1978 to 1980. However, as the milk deliveries in any one of those reference years was not greater than the sum of the initial 1984 quota allocation plus any subsequent allocations from the national reserve the person failed to qualify for an allocation.

Allocations of milk quota from the national reserve are granted on the basis of recommendations from the milk quota appeals tribunal. The tribunal is a body established to consider and advise on applications for additional quota from individual producers who have suffered severe hardship in the context of the milk quota system. The person applied to the tribunal in the 2004-05 quota year and he was successful in receiving an allocation on that occasion.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

485 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of persons with disabilities she has appointed to State boards under the aegis of her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33023/05]

I have made eight appointments to one of the State boards under the aegis of my Department. The appointees were chosen for their knowledge and experience of the area concerned which is in accordance with the statutory criteria for such appointments. The appointees were not asked to declare whether they had a disability.

Violence Against Women.

M. J. Nolan

Question:

486 Mr. Nolan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals to provide resources for organisations that wish to provide training for public officials, health professionals and members of the public in the area of violence against women; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32371/05]

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

519 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he intends to take to increase the amount of information available to the public and state officials on violence against women; his response to the concerns expressed by the UN committee on the elimination of discrimination against women in July 2005 regarding the prevalence of violence against women and girls here; the low prosecution and conviction rates of perpetrators, high withdrawal rates of complaints, and inadequate funding for organisations that provide support services to victims; if he intends to act on their recommendations on the need for sustained training and awareness-raising initiatives for public officials, the Judiciary, health professionals and members of the public and similar recommendations from the National Crime Council in July 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32671/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 486 and 519 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, the National Steering Committee on Violence Against Women, NSC, was set up in 1997 to provide a co-ordinated response from the many statutory and voluntary bodies involved in responding to the problem of violence against women. My Department, in conjunction with the NSC, has conducted a series of successful awareness raising campaigns dealing with various aspects of this issue in recent years. The NSC is developing a strategic plan for its work over the next five to ten years which will include the development of a long-term and wide-ranging strategy for raising public awareness of the issue of violence against women. The strategic plan should be completed early next year and will be widely circulated at that time. In preparing this plan, the committee is reviewing a range of issues identified and recommendations made in the area of combating violence against women, including those arising from the conclusions of the UN committee referred to as well as the National Crime Council report on domestic violence.

This strategy is expected to address the information and awareness needs of relevant public officials and health professionals, in partnership with the training and education arrangements already in place for the groups in question. Provision of resources for such training will remain a matter for the relevant agency in each case. In the case of the Judiciary, which is independent in the exercise of its functions under the law and the Constitution, the Deputy should note that the provision of training and education is a matter for the Judicial Studies Institute which was established in 1996 for this purpose. My role in this regard is to support any programmes put in place by the institute through funding made available in the courts Vote which is administered by the Courts Service.

Citizenship Applications.

Willie Penrose

Question:

487 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he will take to finalise an application for naturalisation by a person (details supplied; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32426/05]

I advised the Deputy in my response to Parliamentary Question No. 183 on 16 December 2004 that I decided to defer a final decision on the application of the person concerned until July 2005.

I understand that officials in the citizenship section of my Department have written to the person in question in recent weeks to obtain information which will enable me to make a final determination in this case. The matter will be prioritised as soon as the information requested is received. I will advise both the Deputy and the applicant as soon as I have arrived at a decision in the matter.

Child Care Services.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

488 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which the recommendations of the working group of the national child care co-ordinating committee for the development of school age child care will be implemented in primary school premises which lack basic educational facilities, trained child care staff, child care management structures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32861/05]

School age child care is an important part of the range of child care services which need to be developed and supported to meet the needs of parents and their children in the Ireland of 2005. The Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme, EOCP, 2000-2006, which is implemented by my Department, has been an important landmark development in Irish child care policy.

It is widely acknowledged that the EOCP has been a highly successful programme which is now expected to result in the creation of almost 40,000 new child care places. This is particularly significant in the context of the increased labour market participation of women and the pressure for non-parental child care services which this creates. As the EOCP has developed, it has become clear that there is a need to make further progress in the specific area of school age child care services. Such services are often necessary to support the needs of parents for child care before, and or after, school hours as well as outside of school terms.

The national childcare co-ordinating committee, which brings together representatives from across the entire child care sector, recognised this need for improved school age child care services, by commissioning a working group on school age child care to develop a report. I was very pleased to launch the working group's excellent report on school age child care in Ireland, in June of this year.

The report makes a number of recommendations, some of which relate specifically to the use of school premises or school lands for the delivery of school age child care. These recommendations are clear that such usage must be appropriate in the particular circumstances and that any child care facility located in a school setting must be of a standard equivalent to the high, child-focused specification recommended for stand alone school age facilities, or for the school age child care elements of integrated services. This is in keeping with the overall objectives of the EOCP to provide a quality child care services.

The development of school age child care services is a very important and necessary part of the Government's commitment to supporting parents in their responsibility to provide appropriate care arrangements for their children into their teenage years. I am pleased, therefore, to inform the Deputy of the recent new initiative launched by my Department to stimulate local interest in the development of school age child care services. This initiative is being led at local level by the city and county child care committees and is intended to bring together all interested stakeholders, including parents, school boards of management, local authorities, other relevant agencies and child care providers. I am hopeful that this process will identify local service needs and local resources which are available to meet them.

Child Abuse.

Liz O'Donnell

Question:

489 Ms O’Donnell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of child abuse cases in each of the past five years in respect of which a prohibition against prosecution was sought by the accused on the grounds of prejudicial defence due to a delay in prosecuting the offences; the number of such cases which were successful in the first instance; if the State appealed to the Supreme Court; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32907/05]

I regret that it has not been possible in the time available to obtain the information requested by the Deputy. I will be in further contact with the Deputy in this matter.

Criminal Prosecutions.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

490 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement on the allegations made by a person (details supplied) in County Waterford in regard to criminal charges taken against them, and specifically their claim that a member of the Garda corruptly initiated and proceeded with those charges; if he will agree to hold a full investigation into this person’s allegations. [32379/05]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the person referred to has been prosecuted for a number of road traffic offences since 1989. As a result of failure to pay fines imposed for a parking offence in 1990, a warrant was issued in September 1991. The warrant was cancelled in December 1991, when it was believed that the person referred to was not resident in the country.

I am further informed that in 1996 as a result of non-payment of a further fine imposed for road traffic offences the person referred to was lodged in Cork Prison. In 2001, summonses were issued in respect of public order offences. The person was fined at Kilmacthomas District Court. The Garda authorities state that these matters have been examined by local Garda management and there is no evidence to support the allegations made.

Miscarriages of Justice.

Joe Costello

Question:

491 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an apology will be issued to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32415/05]

The person concerned was a witness during the first module of the Morris tribunal in regard to hoax explosive finds. The person fully co-operated with the tribunal and was granted an order for full costs.

The person currently also has a civil action against the State in regard to alleged wrongful arrest, and I am, therefore, constrained in what I can say at this stage. Certainly the issues raised in this case are being carefully examined so as to ensure that they are responded to fully and appropriately in the proceedings.

Garda Investigations.

Joe Costello

Question:

492 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda has conducted an investigation into the death of a person (details supplied); if so, the nature and outcome of the investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32416/05]

I have received representations regarding this matter and I have corresponded directly with the family.

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the gardaí investigated this fatal road traffic accident and the investigation file was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions. On 4 October 2001, the DPP directed that no prosecution take place in this case.

As the Deputy will appreciate, I have no role in the investigation or prosecution of cases. This is a long-standing principle of our system of justice. The role of the gardaí is to investigate alleged offences, to gather whatever evidence may be available and to submit a report to the Director of Public Prosecutions. The question of whether a particular person should be prosecuted and for what criminal offence is the responsibility of the DPP. The director, who is independent in the performance of his functions, makes his decision on the basis of the Garda findings viewed against the background of common and-or statute law. In the circumstances, it would, therefore, be inappropriate for me to comment further on the case.

Publication of Reports.

Joe Costello

Question:

493 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the statement in the Ferns Report that a member of the Garda who participated in the events surrounding the sexual abuse allegations was also a member of the Knights of Columbanus; if such membership is allowed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32417/05]

I am aware of the reference made at paragraph 4 of page 147 of the Ferns Report to an individual, who was a Knight of Columbanus, being approached by an unnamed member of the Garda Síochána, who was also a Knight of Columbanus, in connection with allegations made against a particular priest.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that there is no prohibition on members of the Garda Síochána becoming members of the Knights of Columbanus. The Garda Siochána Act 2005 will, however, continue the existing prohibition of membership of a secret society.

Consultancy Contracts.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

494 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount allocated by his Department to consultancy firms working on the development of the Garda fixed charge processing system in each year from 2002 to 2005 inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32434/05]

Payments made to firms involved in the development of the fixed charge processing system from 2002 to 2004 are set out in the following table.

2002

2003

2004

€2,019,343.59

€7,717,222.14

€3,831,897.98

These costs include the full development of the system, including analysis, design, software development, hardware and testing.

The original tender price for the development of the fixed charge processing system was just under €9 million. This was a fixed charge contract and was delivered within budget. The company has also been contracted to carry out additional works in the order of €4.5 million. These were agreed under the change control procedures provided for in the contract and their delivery was monitored and approved in accordance with the project management structure in place in the Garda Síochána.

Crime Levels.

John Deasy

Question:

495 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when information that was requested in Parliamentary Questions Nos. 202 to 210 of 6 October 2005 will be supplied. [32435/05]

The information sought by the Deputy is still being collated. I will be in contact as soon as the information requested becomes available.

Traffic Fines.

Tony Gregory

Question:

496 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Question No. 252 of 27 October 2005 and in view of the city council reply, if the matter will be clarified with the Garda authorities. [32436/05]

I am in contact with the Garda authorities concerning the matter raised and I will be in touch with the Deputy when the matter has been clarified.

Taxi Licences.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

497 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8. [32467/05]

I have made inquiries with the Garda authorities in relation to the matter raised by the Deputy. I have been informed that the position in relation to the person named in the question is as follows.

For the authorised officer on behalf of the Garda Commissioner to issue a PSV driver's licence, there is an obligation on the applicant to display a thorough knowledge of the taximeter area and PSV legislation. He or she does this by way of PSV examination. The person in question sat the examination on 9 November 2002 and 4 December 2004 and failed it on both occasions.

Irish Language.

John Deasy

Question:

498 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32478/05]

The costs of providing services through Irish are met from my Department's administrative budget and cannot be readily distinguished from the cost of providing services generally. Accordingly, the information sought by the Deputy could not be compiled without the application of a disproportionate amount of staff time and resources.

Crime Levels.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

499 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the provisional headline crime statistics for the Carlow and Kildare division for the first three quarters up to 30 September 2005. [32485/05]

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 in relation to this matter when it becomes available.

Garda Strength.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

500 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the personnel strength of all ranks of the Garda Síochána in the Carlow and Kildare division as of 1 November 2005; and the strength nationally on the same date. [32487/05]

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 Carlow-Kildare division as at 1 November 2005 was 332 — all ranks. The personnel strength of the Carlow-Kildare division as at 31 December 1997 was 292 — all ranks. This represents an increase of 40 or 13% in the number of personnel allocated to the Carlow-Kildare division since that date. I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána as at 1 November 2005 was 12,313 — all ranks.

In relation 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 Carlow-Kildare division will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.

Garda Stations.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

501 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has sanctioned the revised sketch scheme for the new Leixlip Garda station in County Kildare; if not, when same will be sanctioned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32493/05]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 1067 of 28 September 2005.

The Garda authorities have now submitted their observations on the revised sketch scheme prepared by the Office of Public Works for the proposed new Garda station for Leixlip and have indicated certain changes they wish to see made to it. These matters have been cleared by my Department and been brought to the attention of the Office of Public Works for their immediate attention.

Family Law.

John Perry

Question:

502 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to revise family law with regard to fathers’ rights and for compulsory mediation based on enunciated principles of fairness for a range of different situations as a prerequisite before any court appearances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32535/05]

Joe Costello

Question:

530 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the various organisations such as Parental Equality, Parents against Discrimination, Unmarried and Separated Fathers and Treoir; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that they are critical of the current administration of family law, especially where it relates to men and grandparents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32830/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 502 and 530 together.

Under the law as it stands, married parents living together are joint guardians and custodians of their child. If they separate, the custody is normally with the parent with whom the child primarily resides, but the other parent still remains a guardian.

An unmarried father may apply to the court to be appointed a guardian of his child. Alternatively, where there is agreement between the parents, they can make a statutory declaration under section 2(4) of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964, as inserted by section 4 of the Children Act 1997, appointing the father as a guardian of his child, without having to go to court.

Under section 11B of the 1964 Act, as inserted by section 9 of the 1997 Act, any person who is related to a child, including a grandparent, or any person who has acted in loco parentis to a child, may apply to the court for leave to apply for access to the child. In deciding on such applications, the court will have regard in particular to the applicant’s connection with the child, the risk, if any, of the application disrupting the child’s life to the extent that the child would be harmed by it, and the wishes of the child’s guardian.

In all family law proceedings relating to the upbringing of a child, the court must always regard the child's welfare as the first and paramount consideration. Where appropriate and practicable, the court will also take into account the child's wishes in the matter having regard to the age and understanding of the child. In addition, the law now places an emphasis in terms of recognising the rights of the child to the society of both his or her parents. Section 11D of the 1964 Act, inserted by the 1997 Act, obliges the court in proceedings relating to the welfare of a child to consider whether the child's best interests would be served by maintaining personal relations and direct contact with both his or her father and mother on a regular basis.

The 1997 Act also provides for an emphasis on counselling and mediation as alternatives to court proceedings concerning the custody of and access to children. It encourages couples who are in dispute to think in terms of agreeing to the custody of and access to their children, without the need for court interventions. Before instituting proceedings for guardianship, custody or access, a solicitor must discuss with the parent the possibility of engaging in counselling and mediation to assist in effecting an agreement between the parties. The court may adjourn any proceedings for the purpose of enabling attempts to be made by the parties to reach agreement, with or without the assistance of a third party, on some or all of the issues in dispute. An agreement in writing between parties relating to custody, access or maintenance can be made a rule of court and thus become enforceable in the same way as if it were a court order. Mediation on the various issues is by its nature a voluntary act to be undertaken by two persons who are in dispute.

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.

As regards the hearing of family law cases in general, the in camera rule has recently been relaxed in that the law now allows certain classes of persons to attend family law cases to draw up and publish reports, subject to certain safeguards including a requirement that the parties to a case or any relevant child would not be identifiable. I am aware of the concerns of men and fathers in the area of family law. Operation of the law in this whole area is being kept under review in my Department.

Child Care Services.

John McGuinness

Question:

503 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application for funding of €39,500 to complete a child care project at a centre (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be approved; if a response to the application will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32555/05]

The community-based group in question was approved capital grant assistance of €392,555 under the equal opportunities child care programme some time ago. The group was also approved staffing grant assistance of €304,737 which will be continued to the end of December 2007 as the group continues to deliver a child care service in accordance with its pre-agreed targets.

I understand from inquiries I have made that the group has recently submitted an application to my Department for additional capital funding of €39,500. This application has been forwarded to Area Development Management, ADM, Limited, which is engaged to assess all EOCP grant applications on behalf of my Department. Following the assessment by ADM, this application will be considered by the programme appraisal committee, PAC, which is chaired by my Department, before a decision is made in relation to funding. The group will be informed of the decision in due course.

Visa Applications.

John McGuinness

Question:

504 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the reasons for refusal of a three-month visitors visa in the name of a person (details supplied) will be communicated to the person as requested in correspondence of 17 October 2005; if an appeal against the decision will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32556/05]

The application in question was received by my Department on 27 July 2005. Having given full consideration to the matter, this application was refused because my Department was not satisfied, on the basis of the documentation supplied, that the applicant could maintain himself while residing in the State without recourse to public funds. The fact that the applicant also overstayed on a previous visit visa and married an Irish national while in the State illegally was also considered.

The refusal reasons were faxed to the applicant on 8 September 2005 and e-mailed to the applicant on 25 September 2005. Correspondence has been forwarded to the Deputy's office detailing this information.

An appeal of the decision to refuse the visa application was subsequently submitted. However, the visa appeals officer was unable to conclude that the initial decision should be overturned. Consequently, the application was refused on appeal on 7 October 2005. The appeal decision was e-mailed to the applicant on 26 October 2005 by my Department.

Residency Permits.

John McGuinness

Question:

505 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if permission to enter here will be granted to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32557/05]

The parents concerned were granted permission to remain in the State for a two-year period from 21 and 14 October 2005, respectively, under the revised arrangements announced by me on 15 January 2005 for the non-national parents of Irish-born children born before 1 January 2005.

Applicants for permission to reside in the State on the basis of parentage of an Irish-born child were made fully aware of Government policy in this area, that is, that residency granted on this basis would not give rise to any entitlement to be joined in the State by other family members. This was clearly stated on the front page of the application form. The application form also included a statutory declaration to be signed by applicants indicating their acceptance, inter alia, that the granting of permission to remain does not confer any entitlements or legitimate expectation on any other person, whether related or not, to enter the State. The parents concerned both signed this statutory declaration. Family reunification under section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996 only relates to persons granted refugee status.

Departmental Bodies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

506 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the membership of his Department’s audit committee; the chairperson and the number of occasions on which it has met in the past 12 months; and the agenda of the meetings. [32565/05]

The membership of my Department's audit committee is as follows: Mr. Jimmy Farrelly, chairperson; Ms Sylda Langford; Mr. Jim McHugh; and Mr. Robert Woods. There is one vacancy on the committee. The committee has met five times since 8 November 2004. The agenda for meetings of the committee comprises items for discussion and-or decision in respect of departmental activities for which the Accounting Officer is responsible.

Asylum Applications.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

507 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be reached in the asylum claim of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and the position in relation to same. [32579/05]

It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications. As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted. A final decision on this application will be made upon receipt of the recommendation of the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner.

Decentralisation Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

508 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the assessments of the financial implications of decentralisation which have been carried out and, in particular, the financial implications of the cost of training and additional staff during the on-the-job training period; the cost of new recruitment to meet gaps in suitable applicants for the decentralised location; the cost of additional promotions to fill the positions required; if the cost of delays in redeploying staff who opt not to move with their post and cost of retraining and redeployment have been identified in respect of the proposed moves (details supplied). [32598/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

509 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the audit committee of his Department or its agencies have reviewed the risk management assessment of the proposed decentralisation proposals (details supplied); if it has approved the assessment or made any recommendations for revising the risk assessment or changing the proposed risk mitigation strategies. [32606/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 508 and 509 together.

An in-depth assessment of the financial implications is an integral part of the decentralisation process. To this end, it has been agreed centrally that each Department and organisation will identify and monitor the types of incremental non-property costs and savings associated with the Government's decentralisation programme during the relocation and transition phases of the programme as well as during the post-decentralisation phase.

This assessment encompasses all of the possible activities the Deputy has outlined such as training, recruitment and redeployment. As regards the agencies referred to by the Deputy, the costs to date have been fully monitored but they have been limited so far to some additional training, administration and management functions which the agencies have found it necessary to introduce to bring the programme forward. Every effort will be made to minimise the costs and maximise the savings as the decentralisation programme is rolled out.

The analysis of the financial implications of decentralisation is also being used as an important tool to assist in the ongoing work of risk identification and mitigation which is being carried out by each agency. As the Deputy will be aware, their risk assessments and risk responses are set out in some detail in each of the agencies' decentralisation implementation plans which are published on my Department's website.

All the risk mitigation strategies in relation to decentralisation will be taken into account within the overall framework of the risk assessment and management process which forms a permanent part of my Department's corporate governance arrangements. In that context, a high level corporate risk register is being compiled and the audit committee in my Department, which is independent, may in due course review the decentralisation risk assessments and strategies in the light of the audit work which will need to be carried out in respect of the risk management process as a whole.

Visa Applications.

Dan Neville

Question:

510 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the appeal of a person (details supplied). [32614/05]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the visa application in question was approved on appeal by my Department on 3 November 2005.

Deportation Orders.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

511 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for the revocation of a deportation order for persons (details supplied) in County Wexford; when a decision will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32630/05]

If a person who is the subject of a valid deportation order wishes to return to the State that person may apply to have the deportation order revoked under section 3(11) of the Immigration Act 1999. There is no automatic right of residency for a non-EU national who marries an Irish national. However, a non-EU national who marries an Irish national may apply for permission to enter and reside in the State with his or her Irish national spouse. It is the normal procedure where an application is received from a person who is the subject of a deportation order and has married an Irish national outside the State that both the revocation and the residency issues are considered at the same time.

The person in question is the subject of a valid deportation order signed on 2 July 2002 following a failed asylum application in the State. He was deported on foot of this order in August 2002 and is obliged to remain outside the State. He subsequently re-entered the State on a date unknown and was deported again in January 2004. He married an Irish national in his home country in August 2005. An application was made on his behalf by his wife for the revocation of the deportation order on 9 September 2005. This application was acknowledged on 21 September 2005 and an opportunity was offered to the person in question to make further representations as to why the valid deportation order in place should be revoked. The matter is under consideration and it is expected that a decision will be made shortly.

Registration of Title.

Pat Breen

Question:

512 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Question No. 351 of 29 June 2005, if the Land Registry has received queries from the solicitor of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; if so, when the application will be processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32631/05]

I have requested the Land Registry to contact the Deputy directly concerning the current position of the application in question.

Pat Breen

Question:

513 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Question No. 379 of 29 June 2005, if the Land Registry has received queries from the solicitor of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; if so, when the application will be processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32633/05]

I have requested the Land Registry to contact the Deputy directly concerning the current position of the application in question.

Gaming and Lotteries Legislation.

Seamus Kirk

Question:

514 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if changes will be made to the lotteries legislation to take account of the considerably enhanced prizes on offer in draws and lotteries compared with the period in which the legislation was introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32634/05]

Since the introduction of the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956, sections 27 and 28 of the Act have been amended to increase prize limits for charitable lotteries on three occasions. SI 72 of 1987 increased prize limits in sections 27 and 28 of the Act from IR£300 to IR£3,000 and from IR£500 to IR£10,000, respectively. SI 174 of 2000 amended section 28 of the Act to increase the prize limit from IR£10,000 to IR£15,000 for periodic lotteries. A further amendment to section 28 was made by SI 29 of 2002 to round up the prize limit from IR£15,000 —€19,046.07 — to €20,000. There are no plans to increase charitable lottery prize limits further.

Visa Applications.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

515 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a person (details supplied) has been refused a visa for their spouse; the inconsistencies referred to by his Department; and the reason they were not clarified with either party prior to the refusal. [32641/05]

The application in question was received by my Department on 24 August 2005. The application received a thorough investigation by the visa officer and was refused on the basis of inconsistencies in the information supplied by the applicant. During an interview with an official of the visa office in Moscow, the applicant gave details of her employment which were found to be inconsistent with information given in two previous applications. Credibility is central to the visa determination process and the onus is on the applicant to provide my Department with accurate information. In this case the visa officer was not satisfied, based on the information provided, that a visa should issue. This decision and the precise reasons for refusal were notified to the spouse of the applicant by e-mail on 28 October 2005.

It is open to the applicant to appeal against the refusal of the visa within two months of the decision by writing to the visa appeals officer in my Department. The correspondence mentioned above also included details of the documentation that should be submitted in the event of an appeal.

Residency Permits.

Seán Haughey

Question:

516 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9 can obtain permission to remain here as an exceptional measure in view of the fact that his spouse has this facility; the procedures to be followed to apply for this permission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32646/05]

The wife of the person concerned was granted permission to remain in the State for a two-year period from 22 February 2005 under the revised arrangements announced by me on 15 January 2005 for the non-national parents of Irish-born children born before 1 January 2005.

The person concerned did not make an application for leave to remain under these new arrangements and has no entitlement to join family members in the State. The wife of the person concerned completed the application form where it is clearly stated on the front page that residency granted on this basis does not give any entitlement to be joined in the State by other family members. The application form also included a statutory declaration to be signed by applicants indicating their acceptance, inter alia, that the granting of permission to remain does not confer any entitlements or legitimate expectation on any other person, whether related or not, to enter the State. The wife of the person concerned signed the statutory declaration to this effect on her application form. Family reunification under section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996 only relates to persons granted refugee status.

Deportation Orders.

Tom Hayes

Question:

517 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) who was deported from Cloverhill Prison and has applied for repatriation. [32662/05]

I refer the Deputy to the reply I gave to his Question No. 129 on Thursday, 29 September 2005. My position remains the same. I do not intend revoking the deportation order in this case.

Grant Payments.

Dan Neville

Question:

518 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding provision of a grant to construct a community based child care facility at Broadford, County Limerick. [32670/05]

I understand that an application for capital grant assistance under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme, EOCP, 2000-2006, was submitted by this group to my Department some time ago.

Each application undergoes a thorough assessment by Area Development Management Ltd., which is engaged to administer the grants on my Department's behalf, to ensure that it meets the EOCP's funding criteria. In addition large-scale projects, such as that proposed in the case of this capital development, undergo an intensive assessment process by an external building consultant. I understand from inquiries I have made that the application is now in the final stages of the appraisal process.

When the appraisal process is complete, my Department will be in a position to make a decision regarding the funding application and the group will be informed of the outcome as soon as possible.

Question No. 519 answered with QuestionNo. 486.

Press Council.

Joe Walsh

Question:

520 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to establish a press council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32677/05]

A Bill providing for the reform of our defamation law is in the course of being drafted with a view to publication in December 2005.

The proposed defamation Bill will contain provision to confer statutory recognition on an applicant organisation to be the press council of Ireland. The press council would be an independent body, broadly representative of civic society, with minority representation from publishers and journalists.

Statutory recognition, by way of a resolution to be moved in both Houses of the Oireachtas, may be conferred on an independent organisation which might formally request the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to be recognised as the press council for the purposes of the legislation. Recognition would confer certain privileges such as immunity from action in respect of their judgments, decisions, directions, etc., or those of a subsidiary body, such as a press ombudsman.

The proposed press council would have to conform to criteria for recognition set down in the Bill. A recognised press council would have, as its central focus, a code of standards supported, and subscribed to, by print media organisations with operations in the State. The code of standards would provide an added protection to citizens' privacy from media intrusion and harassment. It is also envisaged that the press ombudsman would be established by the press council to deal with complaints from those affected by breaches of the code of standards.

Drug Seizures.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

521 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of cocaine and heroin seized in Dublin south-east for the years 2003, 2004 and to date in 2005. [32686/05]

Data provided by the Garda authorities in respect of the amount of cocaine and heroin seized in the years 2003, 2004 and to date in the Dublin metropolitan east division are summarised in the following tabular statement.

Year

2003

2004*

To date 2005*

Cocaine

2,135 grms

2,384 grms

1,175 grms

Heroin

660 grms

2,249 grms

148 grms

* The 2004 and 2005 figures are operational or provisional and may be subject to change.

Asylum Applications.

Joe Costello

Question:

522 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm, in relation to non-nationals who entered here on or before 31 December 2002, and who applied for asylum here, or on whose behalf an application for asylum here was made, the number of such persons in respect of whom he has made no decision under section 17 of the Refugee Act 1996; the number who have been refused asylum but have applied for leave to remain on humanitarian grounds and whose application in that regard has yet to be decided; the number who have been refused leave to remain on humanitarian grounds but in respect of whom deportation orders have not been served; the number on whom deportation orders have been served but deportation has not been effected; and the number under each of the above headings, where relevant, whose whereabouts are no longer known to him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32750/05]

The provisions of Section 17 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended, came into effect on 20 November 2000, the date on which the two independent refugee determination bodies, the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, were established on a statutory basis. Therefore, statistics relating to decisions made pursuant to that section of the Act are provided as and from that date. By way of clarification, decisions relate to decisions made by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to grant or refuse a declaration of refugee status, based on the recommendation of the Refugee Applications Commissioner or, as the case may be, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Decisions about asylum applications are recorded by reference to the date of the decision or recommendation rather than the date of application.

Table 1 sets out the position on asylum applications made each year up to 31 December 2002.

Table 1 — Asylum Applications.

Year of application

No. of applications

2002

11,634

2001

10,325

2000

10,938

As of 31 October 2005, a total of 15 applications for asylum made prior to 31 December 2002 have yet to have recommendations made by the Refugee Applications Commissioner, in accordance with Section 13 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended. On the same date, there were 105 appeals outstanding where the initial asylum application date was on or before 31 December 2002. The delay in dealing with the cases in question arises in the main from judicial review proceedings taken by these applicants. A further small number of cases have not been finalised by the Department's ministerial decisions unit owing to security or other legal issues arising in the context of such applications.

Table 2 — Persons granted and refused a declaration of refugee status.

Year of decision

Decisions to grant

Decisions to refuse

2002

1,839

5,992

2001*

812

3,891*

* The figure for 2001 includes decisions made between 20 November 2000 and 31 December 2000.

In determining whether to make a deportation order or grant temporary leave to remain in the State, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform must have regard to the eleven factors set out in section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and section 5 (Prohibition of Refoulement) of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended. The figures in the following table refer to persons who were considered for deportation but were instead granted temporary leave to remain in the State for an initial period of one year. The majority of these would have been persons who were refused refugee status in the State.

Table 3 — Persons granted temporary leave to remain.

Year

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005 until 31 October

Number of persons

19

77

158

86

175

103

The figures in the table do not include persons who have been granted permission to remain in the State on the basis of parentage of an Irish-born child either under the revised scheme announced in January 2005 or under the earlier arrangements, or those granted residency on the basis of marriage to Irish or EU nationals. In the case of the 2005 Irish-born child scheme, a total of 17,877 applications for leave to remain were received of which, as of 2 November 2005, 15,075 have been granted. In relation to the earlier arrangements whereby parents of Irish-born children were granted leave to remain in the State, in the period from 1996 to 19 February 2003, a further 10,584 persons were granted such leave with more than 8,000 of those persons having been asylum seekers.

Table 4 sets out the number of deportation orders and transfer orders signed in each of the years since 2000. By way of clarification, transfer orders relate to cases where individual asylum applicants were transferred to another European state, in accordance with the provisions of EC Regulation No. 343/2003 and No. 1560/2003 which replaced the Dublin Convention in September 2003, for the purposes of having their asylum claims determined in that state.

Table 4 — Number of deportation orders and transfer orders signed.

Year

No. of Deportation Orders signed

No. of Transfer Orders signed

2005(up to 31 October)

1,518

353

2004

2,915

238

2003

2,411

Nil

2002

2,430

N/A

2001

2,025

N/A

2000

940

N/A

The Deputy might also note that most, but not all, persons subject to deportation orders came through the asylum process. Persons who are illegally present or become illegally present in the State, for example by overstaying their visas, are also the subject of such orders.

Table 5 sets out the number of deportation orders and transfer orders effected each year since 2000.

Table 5 — Number of deportation orders and transfer orders effected.

Year

No. of Deportation Orders effected

No. of Transfer Orders effected

2005(up to 31 October)

354

162

2004

599

65

2003

591

Nil

2002

521

N/A

2001

365

N/A

2000

188

N/A

Temporary leave to remain is considered in the context of the deportation process and is granted where it is decided not to make a deportation order. It is considered regardless of whether representations have been made by, or on behalf of, the person concerned. Consequently, records are not maintained which would distinguish the number of cases where representations have been received from those where no representations have been made.

In relation to persons evading deportation, the number of such persons on our records is approximately 6,500. While it is impossible to put an exact figure on the number of persons evading deportation whose whereabouts are unknown, it is believed that a large number of those evading have already left the State of their own accord.

In the interests of providing a complete picture of the final outcomes of asylum applications, the Deputy might wish to note that to date 2,812 persons have been facilitated to return voluntarily to their countries of origin. Persons availing of this facility would not have been the subject of deportation orders. In many cases their travel arrangements have been arranged and paid for by the International Organisation for Migration, IOM, which has been engaged by my Department to provide practical assistance in this regard.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

523 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of asylum applicants that have been granted leave to remain on humanitarian grounds each year for the past five years and the number to date. [32821/05]

In determining whether to make a deportation order or grant temporary leave to remain in the State, I must have regard to the 11 factors set out in section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and section 5 (Prohibition of Refoulement) of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended. The figures in the following table refer to persons who received notification of intention to deport under section 3(b)(ii) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, but were subsequently granted temporary leave to remain in the State for an initial period of one year. The majority of these would have been persons who were refused refugee status in the State.

Leave to remain granted.

Year

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005 until 31 October

Number of persons

19

77

158

86

175

103

The figures in the table do not include persons who have been granted permission to remain in the State on the basis of parentage of an Irish-born child either under the revised scheme announced in January 2005 or under the earlier arrangements, or those granted residency on the basis of marriage to Irish or EU nationals. Many of these persons would otherwise have been considered for leave to remain in the context of the deportation system described. For example, in the case of the Irish-born child scheme initiated in January of this year, a total of 17,877 applications for leave to remain were received of which, as of 2 November 2005, 15,075 have been granted.

Departmental Staff.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

524 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the training given by the UNHCR to Irish officials; the dates of the training and the number of Irish officials who received this training. [32822/05]

The following table provides a general outline of training provided in Ireland to staff of my Department and associated asylum agencies by the UNHCR since January 2003.

UNHCR Training to Irish Officials* 2003-2005 (November).

Date of Training

Topic

Profile of participants

No. of Participants

2005

7-8 Jan 2005

General Refugee Status Determination (RSD) Training

Newly appointed Refugee Appeals Tribunal (RAT) Members*

4

13 Jan 2005

Presentation of RSD briefing notes on Croatian claims

Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner (ORAC) case workers and researchers

15

15 Mar 2005

RSD Refresher course

RAT Member*

1

25-27 Apr 2005

RSD Training

New Refugee Legal Service (RLS) solicitors, private practitioners** and paralegals

9

23 May 2005

Role of judge and lawyer in RSD system

RAT Members

31

2-4 November 2005

RSD Training

New RLS solicitors, caseworkers and private practitioners**

13

2004

30-31 January 2004

RSD Training

RAT Members*

6

20 February 2004

Briefing on Country of Origin Information (COI) research methodology

ORAC researchers

4

27 February 2004

RSD of Nigerian applications

RAT Members*

7

2 March 2004

RSD of Nigerian applications

RAT Members*

2

3 March 2004

RSD of Somali applications

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

17

4 March 2004

RSD of Somali applications

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

7

5 March 2004

RSD of Iraqi applications

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

13

5 March 2004

Assessing gender persecution in the RSD context

RAT Members*, supervisors, administrative staff, researcher

32

5 May 2004

Researching COI for RSD

RAT administrative staff

5

15 Mar-20 May 2004

Framework for drafting decisions and COI research methodology

RAT Members* and 1 Legal Researcher

27

18 May 2004

RSD of Somali applications

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

15

9 June 2004

RSD of Sudanese applications

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

10

11 June 2004

RefWorld/sourcing COI

RAT Members* and 2 researchers

9

16 June 2004

RSD of DR Congo applications

2 solicitors and 1 researcher from the Refugee Documentation Centre

3

16 June 2004

RSD of DR Congo applications

RAT Members*

8

18 June 2004

RefWorld

RAT Members*

4

25 June 2004

RefWorld

RAT Members*

5

30 June 2004

RSD of Angola-Cabindan applications

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

10

17-18 June 2004

RSD of DR Congo applications

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

35

5 July 2004

RSD of Cameroonian applications

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

15

6 July 2004

RSD training

RAT Member* and researcher

2

28 July 2004

RSD training

RAT Member* and researcher

2

8 August-3 September 2004

Drafting legal submissions for accelerated cases

RLS Solicitors and paralegals

29

31 August 2004

RSD of Sudanese applications

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

18

6-10 September 2004

Practical RSD “refresher” training

ORAC caseworkers, supervisors and presenting officers

73

13 September-7 October 2004

Drafting decisions and the asylum appeals process

RAT Members*

23

13 September-3 December 2004

Train the trainer course

RAT legal researchers

2

26-28 October 2004

RSD training

New RLS solicitors, paralegals and management staff

12

1-11 November 2004

The appeals process and practical ‘on the job’ coaching in drafting appeal submissions

RLS solicitors

20

1-11 November 2004

Train-the-trainer course

RLS solicitors

2

10-11 November 2004

Training on the appeals process and practical guidance on legal submissions for RSD

Private practitioners** on RLS panel

140

22-23 November 2004

Training on the role of a refugee lawyer in RSD system

RLS solicitors, and private practitioners**

90

25 November 2004

RSD of Guinean claims

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

11

25 November 2004

RSD of Somalia claims

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

11

9 December 2004

RSD of DR Congo claims

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

9

10 December 2004

RSD of Georgian claims

ORAC caseworkers and supervisors

13

2003

January 2003

RSD Palestinian applications

ORAC staff

30

January 2003

RSD Zimbabwean applicants

ORAC staff

14

31 January 2003

Unaccompanied Minor RSD (day 1)

Inter-agency (RLS, RAC, RAT, SWT***)

16

5-7 February 2003

RSD

RLS caseworkers and solicitors

14

20 February 2003

Unaccompanied Minor RSD (day 2)

Inter-agency (RLS, ORAC, RAT, SWT***)

16

February 2003

RSD Serbians and Croatians

ORAC staff

15

February 2003

RSD of DR Congo applicants

ORAC staff

14

March 2003

RSD of Israeli draft cases

ORAC staff

15

March 2003

RSD of Chinese Uighur

ORAC staff

15

March 2003

RSD claims based on ritual violence in Cameroon

ORAC staff

15

11 April 2003

Internal Flight Alternative (IFA)

Members* and staff of RAT

18

April 2003

RSD of female genital mutilation claims from Nigeria

ORAC staff

13

April 2003

RSD of Sudanese claims

ORAC caseworkers

15

April 2003

RSD of Angola — Cabindan

ORAC caseworkers

11

6-8 May 2003

RSD refresher course

ORAC caseworkers and research unit

30

12-13 May 2003

IFA/Membership of a Particular Social Group/Gender

ORAC caseworkers

25

15-16 May 2003

IFA/Membership of a Particular Social Group/Gender

ORAC caseworkers

25

19-20 May 2003

IFA/Membership of a Particular Social Group/Gender

ORAC caseworkers

25

22-23 May 2003

IFA/Membership of a Particular Social Group/Gender

ORAC caseworkers

25

May 2003

RSD of female genital mutilation applicants — Ghana

ORAC caseworkers and RAT Members*

35

May 2003

RSD of ritual violence claims — Ghana

ORAC caseworkers

14

June 2003

RSD claims involving trauma and memory

ORAC caseworkers and RAT Members*

30

June 2003

RSD DR Congo applications

RAT Members*

18

June 2003

RSD — Croatians and Serbians

RAT Members*

18

June 2003

RSD and supporting documents

ORAC Higher Executive Officers, Research Unit, Assistant Principals and RAT Members*

38

July 2003

Domestic violence etc.

ORAC Higher Executive Officers, Research Unit, Assistant Principals and RLS staff

101

July-September 2003

New Immigration Bill

RAT Members* and RLS staff

122

September 2003

Prioritised cases

ORAC Higher Executive Officers, Researchers and Assistant Principal

6

October 2003

Membership of a Particular Social Group, IFA, gender related persecution, domestic violence

RLS solicitors

17

October 2003

RSD of Nigerian asylum applications

RAT Members*

17

October 2003

RSD of Nigerian asylum applications

ORAC Higher Executive Officers, research unit

26

October 2003

Introduction to protection and UNHCR’s mandate

RAT clerical staff

15

November 2003

Introduction to RSD

RLS solicitors

7

*Training provided to members of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, RAT, has been included, although RAT members would not be classed as officials.

**Private practitioners and barristers-at-law on the Refugee Legal Service panel have been included, although they would not be classed as officials of my Department.

***Social work team, SWT, staff from the social work team of the Health Service Executive have been included although they would not be classed as officials of my Department.

Note: Staff have also attended UNHCR training courses abroad.

Deportation Orders.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

525 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether decisions to deport the parents of school-age children including Irish children, thereby preventing them from beginning or remaining in school, contradicts his own assertion as to the moral force of granting residency to a family whose children had been attending school. [32823/05]

I refer the Deputy to the response made on my behalf to a motion on the Dáil Adjournment debate on this issue on 5 May 2005.

My position remains the same and is reiterated here. I ask the Deputy to consider what the consequences of a policy not to deport the parents of school-age children would be. In effect, no person in any form of State education and, by implication, none of their other family members, could be deported from the State for a considerable part of the year. Further, the logic of such a policy would be that a person at any point in the education system leading up to an exam could not be deported.

Most persons who would be subject to deportation would have arrived in the State as asylum seekers. It must be borne in mind that a substantial number of asylum seekers are of an age when they are likely to be engaged in the State education system, where examinations of one sort or another are a common feature. For example, in 2003, of the 7,900 asylum applicants almost 1,100 were accompanied minors between the ages of four and 18. Similarly, in 2004, of the 4,766 asylum applicants, more than 700 were accompanied minors between the ages of four and 18. To give a guarantee that none of those persons — and again, by implication, their siblings and parents — would be deported or even issued with deportation orders during a substantial part of the year would be gravely irresponsible. Ireland would be sending out a message to the world that it has an obligation to provide an education, including the right to sit examinations, to all those who, having been found not be in need of international protection, have otherwise no right to be in the State.

Garda Operations.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

526 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on increasing the opening hours of Clane Garda station; if same can be increased bearing in mind increased population and the local need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32824/05]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the opening hours of the Garda station at Clane, County Kildare, are 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday to Saturday, and 12 noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday. I am also informed that local Garda management does not intend to extend the opening hours of Clane Garda station at this time. Local Garda management state that resources are utilised to ensure that stations are opened for the periods outlined, in conjunction with ensuring car patrols, foot patrols and all other areas of policing are also addressed. I am further advised that the extension of the opening hours of Clane Garda station would necessitate the employment of additional personnel on indoor administrative duties who may be more effectively employed on outdoor policing duties.

In relation to Garda resources generally, the accelerated recruitment campaign of 1,100 Garda recruits each year to reach a record force strength of 14,000, in line with the commitment in the 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 draw plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources, and in this context the needs of Clane Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.

Citizenship Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

527 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to citizenship application in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32825/05]

An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of my Department on 30 April 2002.

I considered his application under the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended and decided not to grant a certificate of naturalisation. This decision, along with a copy of the submission detailing the reasons for the decision, was sent to the solicitors acting on behalf of the person in question on 1 February 2005.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

528 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for citizenship in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32826/05]

An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of my Department in February 2003. I considered his application under the provisions of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, and I decided not to grant a certificate of naturalisation. This decision, along with the reasons for same, was communicated to the solicitors acting for the applicant in April 2005. I have been informed by my officials that there is no record of an application having been received from the wife of the person concerned.

Crime Levels.

Dan Neville

Question:

529 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of homicide victims by age and gender in 2004. [32829/05]

I have made inquiries of the Garda authorities and the information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table.

Homicide victims by age and gender 2004*

Age

Murder

Manslaughter

Male

Female

Male

Female

0-10 yrs

0

0

0

0

11-20 yrs

4

0

0

0

21-30 yrs

11

2

2

0

31-40 yrs

10

1

2

2

41-50 yrs

6

1

0

0

51-60 yrs

0

1

2

0

61-70 yrs

0

1

0

0

71yrs & over

0

0

0

0

Total

31

6

6

2

*The figures provided are provisional/operational and liable to change.

Question No. 530 answered with QuestionNo. 502.

Gambling Casinos.

Joe Costello

Question:

531 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a gambling casino has been opened recently in Grafton Street; if he is satisfied that it is operating legally; the legislation governing the operation of casinos; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32832/05]

I have been informed by the Garda that it is not aware of any gambling casino having recently opened on Grafton Street, Dublin 2. However, itis aware of a private club off Grafton Street that provides casino-type facilities to members of the club. This private club was recently visited by a senior Garda officer and no irregularities were detected that would justify a prosecution under the Gaming and Lotteries Acts 1956 to 86, which is the relevant legislation for such matters. I am assured that the premises will continue to receive Garda attention and if breaches of the legislation are detected the directions of the Chief State Solicitor will be sought. There are no proposals currently to amend the law in this matter.

Garda Equipment.

Joe Costello

Question:

532 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the audio-visual equipment for interviewing suspects was installed in Wexford town Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32833/05]

I am informed by the Garda that the equipment referred to by the Deputy was installed in Wexford town Garda station on 16 October 2002.

Residency Permits.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

533 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if permission to remain will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32841/05]

The person concerned, a Nigerian national, and her infant daughter arrived in the State on 31 January 2005 and applied for asylum. Her claim was refused by the Refugee Applications Commissioner and she was informed of that recommendation, which included her dependants, on 18 February 2005. The person concerned appealed this recommendation and her appeal was heard on 21 April 2005 by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. The appeal was rejected and she was informed of this decision by letter dated 17 May 2005. This letter also informed her that the decision applied to 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 30 August 2005 that the Minister proposed to make deportation orders in respect of her and her daughter. 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 daughter should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before deportation orders were made; consenting to the making of deportation orders. Representations have been made to my Department requesting that the person concerned and her daughter be allowed to remain in the State. I expect the file to be submitted to me for decision in due course.

Sexual Offences.

Pat Breen

Question:

534 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the recent Ferns Report and the alleged cover-up by persons in authority, every person in authority including clergy and all public servants on becoming aware of a breach of the law or serious wrongdoing is both morally and legally obliged to report such matters to an appropriate body, if so, to whom such matters should be reported; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32847/05]

The Government has accepted in principle the recommendations in the Ferns report and has given a commitment to their implementation by all relevant Departments and agencies.

The Ferns inquiry has identified a gap in the criminal law regarding failure to act to alleviate the risk of injury or sexual abuse of a child. The report recommends that consideration should be given to the introduction of a new criminal offence which would apply to situations where any person, wantonly or recklessly, engages in conduct that creates a substantial risk of bodily injury or sexual abuse to a child or wantonly or recklessly fails to take reasonable steps to alleviate such risk where there is a duty to act. I am at present examining that recommendation with a view to introducing an appropriate amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill which is at present before this House.

With regard to the other recommendations which fall within my specific area of responsibility, I am examining legal aid provisions with a view to giving effect to the recommendation that legal aid, irrespective of means, be available to both complainants and priests against whom allegations are made where the cases are not determined by the criminal courts. I am also examining in consultation with the Attorney General's office the recommendation that certain documents relating to child sexual abuse should be given legal privilege.

The report contains a number of recommendations relating to Garda procedures. I have forwarded a copy of the report to the Garda Commissioner who will consider it and take on board its recommendations in this regard.

Residency Permits.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

535 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will extend amnesty to foreign nationals who have lived here for a minimum period of time and who have contributed on a positive level to their local communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32852/05]

For several years now Ireland has been operating one of the most liberal economic migration systems in Europe with large numbers entering the State legally for employment purposes. In addition, we are one of the few states in Europe to have granted full access to our labour market on enlargement of the EU to citizens of the new member states. Currently, there are more than 130,000 non-nationals registered with the Garda National Immigration Bureau. They are legally resident in the State with up-to-date permissions to remain and renew their permissions when it is necessary.

Amnesties, in my view, undermine the system of legal migration by rewarding those who have no legal basis for their residence in the country including those who were unwilling to use legal migration channels. Also, they reward those who abuse our asylum system by claiming international protection when they are not in need of it. It is an integral element of any asylum system that those who are not in need of protection should be returned to their countries of origin. International experience is that amnesties in turn, encourage more illegal immigration.

I do not propose to grant an amnesty to persons illegally present in the State. Such persons should, if they wish to acquire legal status here, return to their countries of origin and seek to enter Ireland through the legal channels available.

Citizenship Applications.

James Breen

Question:

536 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in granting citizenship to persons resident here for nine years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32853/05]

I have been informed by officials in the citizenship section of my Department that applications for naturalisation have been received in December 2004 and May 2005 from two persons, both Ecuadorian nationals, with the surname detailed by the Deputy. It appears from the information contained in their applications that they are not related and I am unable to confirm which is the subject of the Deputy's question. The reference number given is not a citizenship reference number. If the Deputy contacts my departmental office directly with further details of the applicants he is inquiring about, I will ensure that he obtains the information he is seeking.

Garda Investigations.

Joe Costello

Question:

537 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the description of the circumstances of the death of a person (details supplied) and the subsequent prosecution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32872/05]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 53 on 20 October 2005 on this matter.

Registration of Title.

Michael Ring

Question:

538 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Land Registry Office will expedite a dealing application for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; when this matter will be completed. [32884/05]

I have requested the Land Registry to contact him directly concerning the current position of the application in question. I understand that, in circumstances where the completion of an application in a particular case is urgent, the Land Registry will make every reasonable effort to facilitate such requests on receipt of a written explanation as to the reason underlying the urgency.

Legislative Programme.

Finian McGrath

Question:

539 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to introduce the Judicial and Ethics Bill; and if he will give an update on the situation. [32902/05]

I take it the Deputy refers to the proposed judicial council Bill, under which it is proposed that a judicial council will be extablished which will have among its responsibilities the establishment of a code of judicial ethics and the investigation of allegations of breaches of ethics.

The preparation of the scheme of the Bill is at an advanced stage. I am engaged in a number of necessary consultations on the draft scheme at present and I expect to be in a position in the reasonably near future to bring the scheme to Government for approval. It is my intention that when the scheme of the Bill has been approved by Government, I will make it available to the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights. Any views that may emerge from the joint committee can be taken into account during the drafting of the Bill, which will be proceeding at the same time.

Residency Permits.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

540 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if he will set out current policy on the matter. [32903/05]

Applications of the type referred to by the Deputy are dealt with in chronological order, in fairness to all such applicants, and currently take approximately 16 to 18 months to process. It has always been the case that the non-nationals concerned could not enter employment pending the outcome of the application for residency, unless they have a valid work permit. I do not envisage any change in this practice in the immediate future.

A person awaiting a decision on a residency application based on marriage to an Irish national is free to leave the State at any time. As a visa-required national, that person must be in possession of a valid Irish visa to allow the person concerned travel to the State. While it is not the normal practice of my Department to assist persons who do not have residency in the State with a re-entry visa prior to travelling, in certain exceptional circumstances assistance may be given to the spouse of an Irish national. Applications of this nature are considered on a case-by-case basis by the immigration division of my Department.

Garda Disciplinary Proceedings.

James Breen

Question:

541 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 596 of 28 June 2005, if he will furnish the answer to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32904/05]

The information sought in Parliamentary Question No. 596 of 28 June 2005 was not available at that time. I have since been informed by the Garda authorities that as a result of an incident at Bunratty Castle Hotel on 3 August 1993, criminal allegations were made against two off-duty gardaí. The two members in question subsequently received District Court convictions for assault and being drunk and disorderly. Pursuant to these convictions, both members were dismissed from the force in accordance with regulation 40 of the Garda Síochána (Discipline) Regulations 1989.

One of the members subsequently appealed his conviction to the Circuit Court, where the District Court conviction was affirmed. The member in question then took a judicial review to the High Court, which granted an order of certiorari quashing the dismissal order. The member was re-instated and was the subsequent subject of separate disciplinary proceedings under the Garda Síochána (Discipline) Regulations 1989. Following the completion of the disciplinary investigation, a sworn inquiry board was appointed to hear the breaches of discipline alleged against the member. The board convened on 11 July 2000 and penalties were imposed in respect of this member.

In regard to the other member concerned, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the matter as it is currently the subject of legal proceedings, that is, an application by him is currently before the High Court.

Citizenship Applications.

Pat Breen

Question:

542 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for a person (details supplied) in County Clare regarding post-nuptial citizenship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32905/05]

A declaration of acceptance of Irish citizenship as post-nuptial citizenship was received in the citizenship section of my Department on 6 June 2004 from the person referred to in the Deputy's question. I understand a serious difficulty has arisen which will, in all likelihood, prevent a positive finalisation of this matter. In recent days, one of my senior officials from the citizenship section has spoken to the couple on the telephone to discuss the options that are open to the person concerned. I further understand he is now considering making an application for a certificate of naturalisation.

My officials will continue to give whatever assistance they can to the person concerned in his efforts to obtain Irish citizenship.

Garda Strength.

Paul McGrath

Question:

543 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí assigned to each Garda station; and the number of gardaí for each of the past ten years in the Longford-Westmeath division. [32914/05]

I refer the Deputy to my replies to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 502 and 503 of 2 November 2005 in this matter.

Garda Deployment.

Paul McGrath

Question:

544 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the occasions in 2004 when gardaí were assigned to duty being paid for by individuals, commercial groups or sporting groups; the total receipts to the gardaí for these duties; and the protocols for such gardaí hiring contracts. [32915/05]

I regret that it has not been possible in the time available to obtain the information requested by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy when the information is to hand.

Probation and Welfare Service.

Richard Bruton

Question:

545 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of cases handled by the probation service in 2004 and to date in 2005; and the number of staff employed by the probation service for the same period. [32923/05]

I assume the Deputy refers to the number of referrals made to the probation and welfare service. National figures for 2004 are in the process of verification and will form part of the probation and welfare service annual report for 2004, which is in preparation at present. Preliminary national figures for the first ten months of 2005 show that close to 9,000 referrals were made to the service in that period. These figures are provisional, subject to validation and liable to change.

The approved staffing of the probation and welfare service comprises 358.8 staff, of whom 65 are clerical and administrative staff. As at 31 October 2005, the service had 279.78 professional staff and 58.6 clerical and administrative staff. In addition, the authorised number of community service supervisors is 75, only 20 of whom are employed in a full-time capacity.

Crime Levels.

Richard Bruton

Question:

546 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime figures and the detection rates by the Garda in 2003 and 2004, classified by headline and non-headline crime, and to date compared to the same period in 2004. [32924/05]

I have made inquires of the Garda authorities and the information requested by the Deputy is laid out in the following tables. The statistics provided for 2004 and 2005 are provisional and liable to change.

Table 1 Headline Offences Recorded and Detected in 2004 and 2003

2004

2003

Recorded

Detected

% Detection Rate

Recorded

Detected

% Detection Rate

98,964

34,398

35%

103.360

37,184

36%

Table 2 Non-Headline Offences Recorded and Detected in 2004 and 2003

2005

2004

Recorded

Detected

% Detection Rate

Recorded

Detected

% Detection Rate

189,093

131,558

70%

176,607

126,152

71%

Table 3 Headline Offences Recorded and Detected from 1 January to 31 October 2004 and 2005

2005

2004

Recorded

Detected

% Detection Rate

Recorded

Detected

% Detection Rate

84,509

28,446

34%

82,957

29,599

36%

Table 4 Non-Headline Offences Recorded and Detected from 1 January to 31 October 2004 and 2005

2005

2004

Recorded

Detected

% Detection Rate

Recorded

Detected

% Detection Rate

172,876

118,421

69%

161,798

114,766

71%

Richard Bruton

Question:

547 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the latest estimates available to him of assaults causing harm in Dublin, and in the rest of the country. [32925/05]

I have made inquiries of the Garda authorities and the information requested by the Deputy is laid out in the following table. It shows the number of assaults causing harm in each Garda division for the first nine months of 2005. In 2004, the total number of recorded assaults causing harm in the State was 3,867, with 2,393 detected. The figures provided in the Garda Síochána annual report for 2003 show a total of 3,926 recorded and 2,589 detected assaults causing harm. The statistics provided are provisional and liable to change.

Assault Causing Harm Offences Recorded and Detected from 1 January 2005 to 30 September 2005

Division

Recorded

Detected

Mayo

98

68

Clare

61

35

Kerry

75

41

Donegal

146

79

Wexford

93

61

Limerick

137

69

Cork City

175

104

Cork West

85

69

Tipperary

85

43

Cork North

88

47

Galway West

107

63

Louth/Meath

176

99

Laois/Offaly

86

66

Sligo/Leitrim

53

19

Carlow/Kildare

157

111

Cavan/Monaghan

144

108

D.M.R Eastern

140

60

D.M.R Western

183

77

D.M.R Northern

166

93

D.M.R Southern

166

80

Longford/Westmeath

82

44

Waterford/Kilkenny

136

95

D.M.R North Central

163

76

D.M.R South Central

189

95

Roscommon/Galway East

56

29

Totals

3,047

1,731

Public Order Offences.

Richard Bruton

Question:

548 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the latest estimates available to him of public order offences in Dublin and in the rest of the country. [32926/05]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that Operation Encounter, which commenced in February 2002, is a Garda initiative aimed at providing high visibility Garda foot patrols in areas where large numbers of people socialise late at night and in the early morning. It is aimed at dealing effectively with public order issues, especially problems associated with drunkenness, including sections 4, 5, 6, 8 and 9 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994; under-age drinking, including the sale by or sale for under-age persons; and assaults contrary to sections 2, 3 and 4 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997. I am further informed that in excess of 284,000 offences have been detected to date during the ongoing Operation Encounter.

Garda Operations.

Richard Bruton

Question:

549 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the latest detection rates by the Garda in Dublin and in the rest of the country. [32927/05]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of headline offences recorded in the Dublin metropolitan region for the period 1 January to 31 October 2005 is 37,387. Of these, 12,162 were detected, a detection rate of 33%. I am further informed that the number of headline offences recorded for the country excluding the Dublin metropolitan region for the period 1 January to 31 October, 2005 is 47,122. Of these, 16,284 were detected, a detection rate of 35%. These figures are provisional and liable to change.

Drug Seizures.

Richard Bruton

Question:

550 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the level of drug seizures in 2004 and to date, and the corresponding period in 2004, distinguishing volumes of different substances seized. [32928/05]

Data provided by the Garda in respect of drug seizures in 2004 and for the year to date are outlined in the following tabular statements. These figures are provisional pending the publication of the Garda annual reports.

2004

Drug

Cannabis resin

3.2 tonnes

Cannabis herb

103.9 kg

Heroin

26.4 kg

LSD

307 units

Ecstasy, MDMA

1,098,169 tablets

Amphetamine

92.4 kg

Cocaine

167.3 kg

2005 to date

Drug

Cannabis resin

2.6 tonnes

Cannabis herb

74 kg

Heroin

21.6 kg

LSD

65,000 units

Ecstasy, MDMA

90,450 tablets

Amphetamine

15.6 kg

Cocaine

157.8 kg

Psilocybin, magic mushrooms

15 kg

I am informed by the Garda that the figures provided for 2005, which are provisional, relate to the volume of drugs seized with a monetary value of more than €10,000. These figures are gathered as part of the ongoing monitoring of drug trends by the national drugs unit. It has not been possible, in the timeframe available, to disaggregate the figures for the similar period in 2004 in the manner requested by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy directly when the information is to hand.

Prisoner Staff Ratio.

Richard Bruton

Question:

551 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of prisoners in State prisons and the number of prison staff in State prisons in each year from 1997 and to date in 2005. [32929/05]

The numbers of prisoners in custody and the number of prison staff in each of the years 1997 to 2004 and in 2005 to date are set out in the following table.

Year

Daily average number of prisoners in custody

Serving prison service staff on 31 December in each of the years 1997 to 2004 and on 30 September 2005

1997

2,422

2,495

1998

2,610

2,727

1999

2,763

3,073

2000

2,948

3,200

2001

3,112

3,217

2002

3,165

3,316

2003

3,176

3,233

2004

3,199

3,196

2005

3,170*

3,162

*To end September 2005.

Traffic Fines.

Bernard Allen

Question:

552 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement on the situation where the Garda Síochána traffic division will not accept coins as payment of fines, and has stated that a €50 note and coins are unacceptable in payment of a €60 traffic fine and that the fine is still classified as unpaid given that the coins and €50 note are kept in a safe in the Garda station pending the collection of the coins and payment of the fine. [32936/05]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that any combination of legal tender is accepted for full payment of traffic fines. The fine is deemed to have been paid once the money has been handed over and a receipt of payment issued. In the absence of more detailed information, it is not possible to comment further.

Registration of Title.

Bernard Allen

Question:

553 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when land registration procedures (details supplied) will be completed. [32972/05]

I have requested the Land Registry to contact the Deputy directly concerning the status of the application in question.

Garda Stations.

Michael Lowry

Question:

554 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties at a Garda station (details supplied); if, in conjunction with the Garda Commissioner, additional Garda personnel will be provided at the station. [32985/05]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that Littleton Garda station is a one-man Garda station and a sub-station of Thurles Garda station, divisional headquarters. I have been further informed that Littleton Garda station is open for a minimum of one hour per tour of duty and is also open by appointment or arrangement, according to daily requirement. In the absence of the member, all calls are dealt with by Thurles Garda station.

Garda management states that the private residence attached to Littleton Garda station was the subject of an arson attack on Sunday, 24 July 2005 and that three separate fires were found within the private residence. The scene was preserved and technically examined and the incident is subject to ongoing investigation. The official accommodation has not been occupied since then and the building is in the process of being refurbished. However, the Garda station at Littleton has remained open to the public.

Garda management also states that at 3.38 a.m. on 2 November 2005, the intruder alarm was activated at Littleton Garda station. At 3.44 a.m., a fire alarm was received at the same location. On arrival at the scene, the Garda found there was smoke coming from inside the Garda station. Fire services were requested and assistance directed to the scene. A person was arrested on the same date and an investigation file is being prepared for submission to the law officers for direction in early course. A portakabin will serve as a Garda station pending completion of repair works.

Local Garda management state they are satisfied that the resources attached to Littleton Garda station are utilised effectively to provide an adequate policing service to the residents of the sub-district, and that there are no plans to allocate additional Garda personnel to the station. In regard to Garda resources generally, the accelerated recruitment campaign to reach a record force strength of 14,000, in line with the commitment in the 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. The needs of the Littleton area will be considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda areas throughout the country.

International Agreements.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

555 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to Ireland’s acceptance and implementation of the optional protocol to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment; when he will be in a position to advise the Government to do so; the reason for Ireland’s failure to sign and ratify despite having voted for the convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32986/05]

On 18 December 2002, the third committee of the United Nations General Assembly adopted the draft optional protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment, OPCAT. Ireland, along with other EU partners, fully supported the draft optional protocol and worked for its adoption at the UN General Assembly and the Commission on Human Rights.

The object of the protocol is to establish a system of regular visits undertaken by independent international and national bodies to places of detention with a view to preventing torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. The international body is proposed to be a subcommittee of the UN Committee against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment. The national bodies may consist of one or several bodies as national mechanisms for the prevention of torture at the domestic level.

Ireland's position in regard to the ratification of international instruments generally, including the optional protocol, is constantly reviewed in light of prevailing circumstances and in the context of the ongoing assessment and prioritisation of Ireland's international commitments. My Department continues to review national legislation to ascertain whether legislative changes would be required before signature and ratification of the optional protocol. Consultations have commenced with other Departments and bodies, including the Departments of Health and Children, Defence, and Education and Science, in regard to arrangements for the inspection of institutions for which they are responsible in which persons may be detained without their consent.

Ireland ratified the European Convention for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, which entered into force for Ireland on 1 February 1989. The Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, CPT, which comes under the aegis of the Council of Europe, was established under this convention and operates a system of international visits across Europe. The committee visited Ireland in 1993, 1998, and 2002.

Registration of Title.

Willie Penrose

Question:

556 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he will take to ensure an application to have lands consolidated (details supplied) is expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33011/05]

I have requested the Land Registry to contact him directly concerning the status of the application in question. I understand that, in circumstances where the completion of an application in a particular case is urgent, the Land Registry will make every reasonable effort to facilitate such requests on receipt of a written explanation as to the reason for the urgency.

Garda Deployment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

557 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of the 496 positions which have been civilianised to date, with reference to the civilianisation of Garda posts approved by the Government in 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33012/05]

In 2001, the Government approved an extensive programme of civilianisation to be introduced on a phased basis over several years. This includes the posts referred to by the Deputy. The programme provided for the civilianisation of these posts in the short, medium and long term; the transfer of the finance function from Garda district clerks to civilian staff; and the transfer of civilian staff from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to the Garda Síochána as civil servants of the State. More than 1,000 clerical, administrative and services posts are filled by civilians in the Garda Síochána. Included in this cohort are 113 staff officers occupying district finance officer positions.

The transfer of civilian staff of the Department to the Garda Síochána is provided for in the Garda Síochána Act 2005 and the transfer of the finance function is almost complete. However, the next phase of the civilianisation programme, including the civilianisation of the posts referred to by the Deputy, must be rolled out within the confines of the Government decision of 4 December 2002 which placed a cap on numbers across the Civil Service and public service. The Department is, as a matter of priority, reviewing the position with both the Department of Finance and Garda management as to how it will proceed further with Garda civilianisation in the context of the overall constraints of Civil Service and public service numbers.

The purpose of the review is to enable, to the greatest extent possible, movement to front-line policing of desk-bound gardaí from administrative and technical functions to operational duties. This is in keeping with the general policy that civilianisation allows certain jobs to be done at a more economic cost and allows gardaí to focus on work more suited to their training and skills, thereby increasing overall operational capacity within the Garda Síochána. With that in mind, the Government earlier this year agreed in principle to the re-assignment of staff from the Department of Agriculture and Food who are based in Davitt House, Castlebar, to a new Garda unit, the Garda information service centre, GISC, to perform administrative functions for the Garda. The immediate focus is on the transfer of the Castlebar staff and dealing with the personnel and industrial relations issues that arise.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

558 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33024/05]

In accordance with the legislation establishing the National Disability Authority, the majority of the membership of the 13-person authority comprises persons with disabilities, their representatives, carers or family members; five members are persons with disabilities; and another two members represent families and carers of persons with disabilities. Details of the membership of other state boards under the aegis of the Department are not held by reference to whether the persons in question have a disability.

Citizenship Applications.

Denis Naughten

Question:

559 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to correspondence (details supplied) if he will furnish a response to the query raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33039/05]

An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of my Department on 30 August 2005. The application was deemed ineligible on the basis that the person concerned did not meet the statutory residency criteria set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. This decision was communicated to the person referred to by the Deputy in September 2005.

I understand the subject matter of the recent correspondence from the Deputy stated there were delays in the renewal of the person's work permit, leading to delays in the renewal of his residency permission. However, the Act provides that in determining residency for the purposes of naturalisation, no period shall be reckoned where the applicant did not have the permission of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to remain in the State. This particular statutory provision does not provide for the reasons that such permission not be taken into account.

I further understand the latest permission to remain of the person concerned expired in August 2005 and that he has not yet applied to his local immigration officer to renew this permission. Unfortunately, the consequence of this is that he cannot now comply with the statutory provision of having 12 months continuous reckonable residence prior to the date of application until October 2006 at least and that is dependant on him renewing his permission before the end of this month.

Decentralisation Programme.

Denis Naughten

Question:

560 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of applications in each grade that have been received from civil servants wishing to decentralise to the Land Registry Office in Roscommon town; the number of positions at each grade required to facilitate the decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33040/05]

Under the Government's decentralisation programme, 230 posts in the Land Registry are scheduled to relocate to Roscommon town. The following table gives details of the staff requirements and the numbers of applicants wishing to decentralise to the Land Registry Office in Roscommon.

Grade

Nos. of staff required

Nos. of applicants*

Principal officer

1

1

Assistant principal officer

5

5

Higher executive officer

16

17

Executive officer

60

37

Staff officer

4

2

Clerical officer

89

64

Service officer

3

1

Chief exam. of titles, PO1

2

0

Examiner of titles, PO

2

0

Chief supt. mapping

2

0

Regional mapping dir.

3

0

Supt. mapping

9

1

Examiner-in-charge

16

3

Examiner of maps-draughtspersons

18

0

* The number of applicants is based on those who applied to the central applications facility before 7 September 2004.

Drug Seizures.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

561 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of seizures of cocaine made by the Garda to date; the amount and estimated street value of the cocaine in each case; the location of each seizure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33095/05]

It has not been possible within the timeframe available to collate the information required by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy when the information is to hand.

Asylum Applications.

John Deasy

Question:

562 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for asylum for a person (details supplied). [33161/05]

It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications. Applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted. A final decision on this application will be made upon receipt of the recommendation of the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner.

Youth Services.

Joe Costello

Question:

563 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the National Youth Council of Ireland campaign for an allocation of €10 million to progress the implementation of the national youth work development plan; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that half the required moneys were made available in 2004; if the required moneys will be made available in 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32414/05]

I am aware of the National Youth Council of Ireland's current campaign for the allocation of additional funding for the development of youth work in Ireland, including the further implementation of the national youth work development plan. The financial provision for the main funding line for the youth work sector in 2005 represents an 18% increase over 2004 and brings that financial provision to €33.889 million in 2005. This additional funding is catering 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, to date additional funding has been provided in the following areas: the establishment of ten new special projects for disadvantaged youth; the upgrade of 20 single worker special projects to two worker projects; review of youth work funding; review of youth information provision; continued support of the child protection training programme; establishment of a development fund for youth work organisations; North-South youth work training endorsement panel. It is expected that in the region of €1.6 million will be expended in 2005 on these and other action areas which are currently being progressed.

I am acutely conscious of the valuable work being carried out in the youth work sector and I assure the Deputy of my ongoing support for the sector and its work.

Early Childhood Education.

Finian McGrath

Question:

564 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if early childhood resources and services to children on the northside of Dublin will be targeted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32431/05]

Early education in Ireland covers the period from birth to six years. At present, almost all five year olds and half of four year olds attend junior infant and senior infant classes in primary schools. Outside of junior classes in primary schools, my Department's main role in the area of early childhood education focuses on pre-school provision for children from disadvantaged areas, for Traveller children and for those with special needs.

The early start programme is a pre-school intervention programme targeted at three to four year old children in areas of social disadvantage. With this programme, young children can experience an educational programme to enhance their overall development, to help prevent school failure and to help offset the effects of social disadvantage. The early start pre-school project was established in 40 primary schools in designated areas of urban disadvantage in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Waterford, Galway, Drogheda and Dundalk. There are currently 12 early start projects in the north Dublin area.

Targeted early childhood education provision will be a key element of the new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS — delivering equality of opportunity in schools, which I launched in May of this year. The plan's objective is to concentrate early education actions on those children aged from three up to school enrolment, who will subsequently attend urban/town primary schools serving the most disadvantaged communities. On a phased basis, the 150 urban/town primary school communities serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage will be provided with access to early education for children aged from three up to school enrolment, who will subsequently attend these primary schools. My Department anticipates being in a position to notify participating schools on the outcome of the ongoing identification process by the end of year.

My Department currently funds 46 pre-school classes for Traveller children. In the special needs sector there are currently 14 pre-school classes for children with autism located throughout the country. In addition to this, ten stand-alone autism facilities that provide an applied behavioural analysis, ABA, model of response to children with autism cater for a number of children of pre-school age. My Department has also sanctioned the establishment of a pre-school for six children with hearing impairment on a pilot basis.

There are seven pre-schools for Travellers and three pre-schools for autism in north Dublin. In addition, the Rutland Street Project in Sean McDermott Street has been operational since 1969. It caters for approximately 95 pupils aged three to five years and includes a pre-school centre, a special staff teaching allocation, classroom assistants, secretarial services and cooks, together with the provision of school meals.

The bulk of pre-school places in the country are financed by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, which has provided unprecedented levels of funding for child care in recent years. The Department of Health and Children also provides grants to child care groups, including to community groups in areas of social and economic disadvantage.

The Northside Partnership is currently developing an integrated plan entitled "Preparing for Life", which is intended to address the needs of children at each stage of their development to better prepare them for school. The plan involves mentoring and group training for parents to improve their skills, esteem and aspirations for their children. It is intended that the project will result in improved physical and psychological health and better educational outcomes for children at key stages in their development to the point of reception in school.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

John Deasy

Question:

565 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason an award agreed with the Residential Institutions Redress Board by a person (details supplied) has not yet issued from the solicitor; and if she will ensure that payment issues immediately. [33162/05]

The Residential Institutions Redress Board is independent in the performance of its functions in accordance with the terms of the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002 and my Department is not a party to the consideration of applications for financial redress. If the person mentioned in the Deputy's question has accepted an award made by the board or by the review committee on review, he must agree in writing to give up any right he may have to bring a claim for damages in the courts in respect of the abuse and injuries covered by the award. The person is given one month in which to decide if this is what he wishes to do. Once the board has received this agreement the payment will issue as soon as possible.

Section 27 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002 provides that all reasonable legal costs and other costs associated with the preparation and presentation of an application to the redress board will be met by the board. In the event that agreement cannot be reached between the board and the applicant's legal representative, the matter is referred to the Taxing Master of the High Court for determination.

The redress board's application form highlights the fact that if a person is represented by a solicitor all correspondence in connection with their application is sent directly to the solicitor and the board's guidelines and other publicity material states that all reasonable legal costs incurred in respect of applications for redress are payable by the board.

Question No. 566 answered with QuestionNo. 136.

Schools Building Projects.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

567 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the timescale for the delivery of the recently announced PPP programme of school building; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32951/05]

On 29 September 2005 I announced plans for the provision of 23 new post-primary and four primary schools through public private partnership procurement in the period 2005 to 2009. This is one of the most ambitious building programmes ever undertaken in the education sector.

My Department, in consultation with the National Development Finance Agency, is currently engaged in finalising the content of the first bundle of schools to be delivered under the current programme. I will announce the schools in the bundle in the near future. It is expected that the NDFA will be in a position to go to the market with this bundle in the first half of 2006. I will launch the remaining bundles on a rolling basis thereafter as part of the four year delivery plan.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

568 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science if the new school building planning model launched in January 2004 is intended to be the sole basis on which capital funding decisions are made by her Department in the future; if the recommendations derived from the pilot areas of this planning model will be implemented fully; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32982/05]

The recommendations in my Department's area development plans will form a vital framework in which future decisions about school planning in an area will be made. Progress on individual recommendations will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards, subject to the prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. The normal application procedures for capital funding will continue to apply for schools covered by the plans to take account of any changes in the circumstances of individual schools.

Question No. 569 answered with QuestionNo. 133.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

570 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to provide three primary and a possible second level school in the proposed Dundalk south west local area plan. [32372/05]

My Department received correspondence from Dundalk Town Council with regard to a proposed development plan for the south west sector of Dundalk. This correspondence outlined proposals for the development of three areas of residential development comprising in total some 7,300 housing units. In turn, my Department outlined its initial assessment of educational requirements at both primary and post-primary level based on this proposed development.

The next stage in this process is the preparation of a draft development plan by the local authority. My Department would expect to see its assessment of educational requirements reflected in this plan. When available, the plan will be submitted to my Department for comment. My Department will firm up its own plans for any extra educational infrastructure required when the draft development plan is finalised and there are firm indications of the extent of and timescale for the delivery of housing developments.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

571 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the correspondence she has received and sent, and the meetings which were held, about schools provision in the Drogheda northern environs plan. [32373/05]

Louth County Council has appointed consultants to draw up a master plan for three new residential neighbourhoods as identified under the local area plan for the north Drogheda environs 2004. My Department received draft working papers on the planning strategy for this master plan and officials subsequently met with the local authority to discuss the plan. My Department has also corresponded with the local authority outlining its initial assessment of educational requirements at both primary and post-primary level based on a proposal in the plan to deliver up to 7,500 new houses over the next 10-15 years.

The next stage in this process is the preparation of a draft development plan by the local authority. My Department would expect to see its assessment of educational requirements reflected in this plan. When available, the plan will be submitted to my Department for comment.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

572 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary school students in County Louth who are in classes of 30 or more; and if this is an increase on 2004. [32374/05]

In the 2004-05 school year a total of 3,754 primary school pupils — provisional figure — were taught in classes of 30 or more pupils in County Louth. The 2005-06 census of primary schools has commenced. As the census date is 30 September 2005 it will be some months before all school returns have been received and processed in my Department. When this process has been completed class details for 2005-06 will be available.

The Deputy should be aware that the number of children in classes of more than 30 nationally has halved since this Government took office. Major improvements in school staffing have been made in recent years with the hiring of more than 4,500 additional teachers. This represents the largest increase in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education. The annual estimated value of the additional expenditure on these posts is more than €200 million.

In 1996-97, the average class size in our primary schools was 27. It is now 24. In 1996-97 there was one teacher for every 22 children in our primary schools. Today there is one teacher for every 17 children, the lowest pupil teacher ratio in the history of the State.

Aside from decreasing average class size, the unprecedented increase in school staffing in recent years has also greatly improved the services provided for children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas. While there is more to be done to reduce class sizes further, it should be acknowledged how much progress has been made in this area in recent years.

While the average class size nationally has been brought down to 24, I am committed, in line with Government policy, to delivering further reductions in class sizes for the under nines. In achieving the Government target for smaller class sizes, priority must, in the first instance, be given to children with special needs and those in disadvantaged areas. Under the new action plan for tackling education disadvantage which I launched last May, more children in disadvantaged schools will be in classes of 20 in the current school year.

With regard to the number of classes of more than 30 in our schools, the general rule is that schools are staffed on the basis of having a maximum class size across the school of 29. Where some classes in a school have class sizes of greater than 29, it is often because a decision has been taken at local level to use their teaching resources to have smaller numbers in other classes.

Higher Education Grants.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

573 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 1309 of 28 September 2005, if a decision has been made in respect of a higher education grant for a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32375/05]

Officials from the student support unit of my Department have been in contact with AMI Milltown to seek clarification on the precise qualification that students are awarded at the end of second year, if this is a terminal qualification, the entry requirements into third year and the terminal qualification at the end of this year. My Department has received correspondence from AMI Milltown but further clarification is needed before the matter can be reviewed further.

Officials from the student support unit of my Department will be in further contact with AMI Milltown regarding this matter. Once all the issues have been fully reviewed, my Department will contact the Deputy about the student to whom he refers.

Institutes of Technology.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

574 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of whole time equivalent students in the institutes of technology and regional technical colleges, including Dublin Institute of Technology, in 1990, 1995, 2000 and to date; the number of academic staff in the institutes of technology and regional technical colleges, including Dublin Institute of Technology, in 1990, 1995, 2000 and to date; the number of administrative staff in the institutes of technology and regional technical colleges, including Dublin Institute of Technology, in 1990, 1995, 2000 and to date. [32437/05]

Details of WTE students, academic and administrative staff for the years requested are set out in the table. The most recent data available for 2005 are from the 2004-05 academic year. Details of administrative staff in the institutes for the year 1990 are not available as the staff were part of the overall VEC system at the time. The position changed on enactment of the Regional Technical Colleges Act 1992 and the Dublin Institute of Technology Act 1992.

Academic Year

WTE Students

Academic Staff

Administrative Staff

1990

1990-91

31,812

2,582.0

1995

1995-96

43,927

3,218.5

662.0

2000

2000-01

57,986

4,267.5

936.8

2005

2004-05

63,650

4,553.2

1,376.0

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

575 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the proportion of the teaching space in each of the institutes of technology and Dublin Institute of Technology currently housed in temporary or prefabricated buildings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32438/05]

My Department does not have direct access to details relating to the configuration of accommodation at the various institutes of technology, including Dublin Institute of Technology. Accordingly, the information requested by the Deputy is not readily available.

Irish Language.

John Deasy

Question:

576 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science the expenditure by her Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32479/05]

My Department has always been conscious of its remit to actively support the Irish language. We have a customer base that expects a service through Irish and we provide for Irish versions of application forms, information leaflets and reports. During 2002 to 2004, my Department spent in excess of €300,000 on providing services to our Irish-speaking customers.

Training costs incurred for departmental staff between 2002 and 2004 were as follows: 2002 —€4,055.37; 2003 —€18,938.55; 2004 —€17,201.30. These figures relate to administration costs only and do not include expenditure on the education system itself.

Translation costs between 2002 and 2004 were: 2002 —€47,117.54; 2003 —€40,727.64; 2004 —€71,225.13. These figures relate to the Department only. A total of €108,758.22 was spent on advertising. The breakdown is as follows: 2002 —€65,126.03; 2003 —€33,374.63; 2004 —€10,257.56. Signage costs were incurred only in 2003 when €306.46 was spent on bilingual signage.

Schools Building Projects.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

577 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received the stage two submission in connection with the required phase two extension to a school (details supplied); and if further progress on this project will be sanctioned. [32486/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. A stage 2 submission has not yet been received.

My Department's officials wrote to the school authorities in September 2005 advising them that they should now proceed to prepare and submit a stage 2 submission — outline sketch scheme. The school authorities have advised that they expect to have the stage 2 submission with my Department by the end of November 2005. As the board of management is the client for this project responsibility for ensuring that this timeframe is maintained lies with it. Further progression of the project can be made when the stage 2 submission is received.

Site Acquisitions.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

578 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of times compulsory purchase orders have been used in the past 20 years to acquire sites for national schools and the details of same. [32489/05]

My Department is not legally in a position to acquire sites for schools by way of compulsory purchase orders. The use of such orders is a matter for local authorities. It may have been the case that some sites purchased by my Department from local authorities were part of larger blocks of land previously acquired by these authorities through compulsory purchase orders. My Department would not necessarily be aware of this.

Psychological Service.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

579 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Question No. 1295 of 28 September 2005 and her views regarding psychologists and public sector numbers, if she is re-abandoning the promise of her predecessor that all schools would have access to their own educational psychologist. [32490/05]

All primary and post-primary schools have access to psychological assessments for their pupils, either directly through National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, psychologists or through the scheme for commissioning psychological assessments, SCPA, that is administered by NEPS. Schools that do not currently have NEPS psychologists assigned to them may avail of the SCPA, whereby the school can have an assessment carried out by a member of the panel of private psychologists approved by NEPS, and NEPS will pay the psychologist the fees for this assessment directly. Details of this process and the conditions that apply to the scheme are available on my Department's website.

NEPS also provides assistance to all schools that suffer from critical incidents, regardless of whether they have a NEPS psychologist assigned to them. Also, with regard to all schools, NEPS processes applications on behalf of students with specific learning disabilities for reasonable accommodations in certificate examinations.

The number of psychologists in the Department has increased from 43 on the date of establishment of NEPS to a current figure of 121, including three NDA psychologists working in NEPS and one psychologist on assignment to the further education section of the Department. There are also four psychologists on career break.

The Public Appointments Service recently concluded a new recruitment competition for the appointment of educational psychologists to NEPS. Candidates were asked to indicate regions in which they were prepared to serve. My Department is currently in the process of appointing eight psychologists from the panels. The internal management group in NEPS identified the following priority regions for appointment: mid-west region — four appointments; south-west area of eastern region — two appointments; north-west region — one appointment; south-east region — one appointment. Any increase in the overall numbers of psychologists in NEPS must take account of Government policy on public sector numbers.

Schools Building Projects.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

580 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason it took three months to examine the stage 3 submission in respect of the required extension to a school (details supplied); if she has received the response to further information in respect of the stage 3 submission; and when this extension will be sanctioned. [32491/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. The school in question was listed in my announcement of April this year as a project to progress through architectural planning up to pre-tender stage, that is, up to and including advanced architectural planning.

To bring this project to the required stage, my Department's officials have requested and received various amendments to the stage 3 submission — detailed plans/costs — during the year. Most recently my Department's officials wrote to the school authorities on 21 September with some further queries and a response has now been received. These will be examined as soon as possible and my officials will then be in further contact with the school authorities with regard to the next steps involved in progressing this building project.

Progression of projects to construction will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2005 — 2009.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

581 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science when the building project for a school (details supplied) will go to tender; and when work will commence on the new school. [32500/05]

On 6 May 2005 my Department gave devolved authority for the project in question to proceed to tender and construction. This project went to tender at the end of September and my Department is currently awaiting the tender report.

School Accommodation.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

582 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the present position regarding the progressing of the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [32504/05]

As part of the 2003 pilot initiative for the devolved scheme for primary school building works, a grant of €100,000 was sanctioned to enable the management authorities of the school to which the Deputy refers to provide additional accommodation. The school constructed two classrooms and three resource rooms. The works were completed in 2004.

An application for further additional accommodation has recently been received and progress on this application will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

583 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of additional accommodation at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [32513/05]

The school planning section of my Department has received an application for major capital funding from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Schools Building Projects.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

584 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if the tender report regarding the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare has been received in her Department; when the tender will be awarded; and the length of time for construction. [32514/05]

Responsibility for the progression to tender and construction of the project at this school has been devolved to the school authority, County Kildare VEC. Tenders have been received within the approved budget and it is intended that the project will commence on site in the coming weeks. The construction period will be in the region of 15 months.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

585 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the position on the provision of a permanent school building for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [32515/05]

The school planning section of the Department of Education and Science has received an application for major capital funding from the management authority of the school in question. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

586 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science when architectural planning for the required eight classroom extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare is expected to be completed. [32518/05]

The board of management of the school in question has recently submitted a programme of works outlining that the architectural planning phase of the extension project will be completed by mid-May 2006. As the client for this project, it is the responsibility of the board to deliver this programme in accordance with all relevant statutory and building regulations. The board's design team is preparing a draft stage 2 submission, outline sketch scheme which, when completed, will be forwarded to the school building section of the Department of Education and Science for approval.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

587 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the position on the provision of a permanent building for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [32519/05]

The school planning section of the Department of Education and Science has received an application for major capital funding from the management authority of the school in question. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

588 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science when a school (details supplied) in County Kildare will be fully operational. [32521/05]

The construction of a new national school in Naas is well under way. The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2005.

School Accommodation.

John McGuinness

Question:

589 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for a school extension (details supplied) in County Carlow; when a decision will be made in the case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32532/05]

The school in question submitted an application to the Department of Education and Science for extra accommodation under the scheme for the provision of additional classroom accommodation 2006. The closing date for the receipt of applications under this scheme was 14 October last and all applications received are being assessed. A list of successful applicants will be published when the assessment procedure has been completed.

Governance of Universities.

Finian McGrath

Question:

590 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if a board of governors should have meetings at a third level college without student representations; and if she will clarify this situation regarding the 1997 Education Act. [32534/05]

I presume the Deputy is referring to the 1997 Universities Act. Chapter II of the 1997 Universities Act refers to the governance of universities and, specifically, section 18 relates to the functions of the governing authority of a university. The provisions of the 1997 Universities Act relate to several specific third level institutions and, as the question posed by the Deputy does not refer to any specific institution, I am not in a position to say whether the provisions cover the situation as outlined in the query.

However, I have asked my officials to contact the Deputy directly so that it can be clarified whether the query refers to a particular institution. Once this clarification has been made, a response can be provided to the Deputy. In general terms, the following sections of the 1997 Universities Act, among others, relate to the subject matter of the Deputy's question. Section 18(c) confers upon universities the power to make statutes governing their operation, subject to their charters. Section 26 allows for dispute resolution mechanisms to be agreed, and this entails consultation with the students’ union. Section 31 outlines a range of possible rights and responsibilities which may be included in a university’s charter.

School Transport.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

591 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department has received a submission for funding for the extension of a school bus service (details supplied) in County Kerry; if she will provide the necessary funding for this proposal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32540/05]

The Department of Education and Science has recently conveyed its decision to the relevant transport liaison officer. Under the terms of the post-primary school transport scheme, routes are planned so that, in general, no pupil will have more than 3.2 km to travel to a pick-up point. Furthermore, where eligible pupils attend a school at a centre other than the post-primary centre which caters for the catchment area in which they live, they may be allowed the concession of transport from the catchment boundary of the centre attended, provided there are seats for them on a bus serving that centre.

Having considered the distances involved to the pick-up point for the children involved and the fact that some of the children are living outside of the catchment area concerned, the Department is satisfied that a re-routing of the bus service could not be justified in this case.

Schools Building Projects.

John McGuinness

Question:

592 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for two classrooms, a general practitioners room, physical education facility, an office and store at a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; when a decision will be made in this case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32547/05]

The school planning section of the Department of Education and Science has received an application for major capital funding from the management authority of the school in question. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Higher Education Grants.

John McGuinness

Question:

593 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science if a maximum grant from Carlow Vocational Educational Committee will be approved in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow. [32548/05]

The decision on eligibility for third level grants is a matter for the relevant VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to the Department of Education and Science except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is desired. It appears that no such advice or instruction has, to date, been sought in the case of the student in question. If an individual applicant considers that she has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she may appeal to the relevant VEC. Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the relevant VEC, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in her case, a letter outlining the position may be sent to the Department. Alternatively, as already indicated, the VEC may, itself, in exceptional circumstances, seek clarification on issues from the Department. However, it is not open to me, or the Department, to depart from the terms of the maintenance grants schemes in individual cases.

Apart from the funding provided through the student support maintenance grant schemes, financial assistance is also available from the Department of Education and Science through the student assistance fund. The objective of the fund is to assist students, in a sensitive and compassionate manner, who might otherwise, due to their financial circumstances, be unable to continue their third level studies. Further information on this fund is available from the student access officer at the college being attended.

Educational Disadvantage.

John McGuinness

Question:

594 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science when the results of a survey of educational disadvantage in primary schools conducted by the Education Research Centre in June 2005 will be available; if the results of the survey will be used to allocate extra resources through delivering equality of opportunity in schools; if a list of schools to benefit under the scheme will be published; if the needs of schools in RAPID catchment areas will be examined and if extra resources identified will be provided; if there is a timeframe for action in relation to the needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32549/05]

Delivering equality of opportunity in schools, DEIS, the new action plan for educational inclusion, which will be introduced on a phased basis, starting during the current school year, aims to ensure the educational needs of children and young people, from pre-school to completion of upper second-level education, three to 18 years, from disadvantaged communities are prioritised and effectively addressed. The new plan will involve an additional annual investment of approximately €40 million on full implementation. It will also involve the creation of about 300 additional posts across the education system.

A key element of the plan is the putting in place of a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage in our primary and second-level schools, which will result in improved targeting of resources at those most in need. The identification and analysis process is being managed by the Educational Research Centre on behalf of the Department of Education and Science. This process is being assisted by an advisory group, and will be supported by quality assurance work co-ordinated through the Department of Education and Science's regional offices and the inspectorate. Information available from other sources, for example, areas selected for inclusion in RAPID, will also be taken into consideration.

As a result of the identification process, approximately 600 primary schools, comprising 300 urban-town schools and 300 rural schools, and 150 second-level schools will be included in a new school support programme. The programme will bring together, and build upon, several existing interventions for schools and school clusters/communities with a concentrated level of educational disadvantage. It is anticipated that the identification process will be completed by the end of 2005.

Institutes of Technology.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

595 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to assist institutes of technology in making Ireland a centre of excellence in e-learning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32550/05]

In April 2005, I announced Government approval for the establishment of a multi-annual strategic innovation fund, which aims to encourage reform and capacity building within the higher education sector, in accordance with the recent recommendations of the OECD.

As I am very committed to supporting the use of ICT in higher education, I particularly welcome reform within the higher education sector which aims to introduce teaching and learning reforms, including enhanced teaching methods, programme re-structuring, modularisation and e-learning.

It is intended that the fund will be competitively awarded on the basis of an independent external evaluation of the quality of proposals, with a requirement for excellence. This draws on the successful principles established for the awarding of funding under the programme for research in third level institutions. Where the programme supports the development of an infrastructure for excellence in research, this fund will support enhanced capacity in the core teaching and learning function in all areas of the remit of the higher education institutions. The fund will only be allocated to institutions to the extent that the proposals received meet the standard required and achieve the outcomes to which they are committed.

The fund will be created on a multi-annual basis. I have asked the Higher Education Authority to immediately proceed with developing detailed criteria and launching a competitive process for the approval of funding awards, with a view to the drawdown of awards commencing in 2006. The fund will be structured to ensure current national objectives are adequately reflected. I have previously identified these objectives as including the need to safeguard and reinforce the many roles of higher education, and the full diversity of disciplines within it, in driving economic development, in providing independent intellectual insights and in contributing to our broader social and cultural understanding.

In September 2005, the chief executive officer of the Higher Education Authority signed a memorandum of co-operation with the director of the joint information systems committee of the UK, which has responsibility for e-learning developments there. This is designed to foster and enhance co-operation in this area. The Higher Education Authority's e-learning strategy is based on meeting the greater diversity of student needs; increasing flexibility of provision; enhancing the capacity for integrating study with work and leisure through work-based and home-based learning. The authority is aware of the sizeable e-learning industry in Ireland and the opportunities this presents. It is keen to develop co-operation with IDA Ireland and the industry to make Ireland a centre for excellence in e-learning.

Question No. 596 answered with QuestionNo. 156.

School Staffing.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

597 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of career guidance councillors here; and the number and percentage of second level schools which do not have a career guidance teacher. [32581/05]

The Department of Education and Science makes a specific ex quota allocation of teaching posts in respect of guidance to schools in the second level system. This allocation is based on the pupil enrolment in September of the preceding school year. As a result of my decision to allocate an additional 100 posts to guidance from September 2005, an enhanced guidance allocation provision was put in place for 2005-2006 school year. This enhanced provision means that in the case of schools in the free education/block grant schemes, the level of allocation ranges from eight hours per week for schools with enrolments below 200 pupils to 47 hours per week for schools with an enrolment of 1,000 pupils or more. In addition certain schools had previously been allocated hours in response to particular needs or as part of the guidance enhancement initiative. These schools have been permitted to retain this higher allocation for the 2005-06 school year.

In the case of schools outside the free education/block grant schemes, 11 hours per week are allocated in respect of schools in the 350 — 499 enrolment category and a full post is allocated in the case of schools with 500 or more pupils.

There are 681 whole-time equivalent guidance posts allocated to second level schools. All schools in the free education/block grant schemes receive an allocation for guidance. There are nine fee-charging post-primary schools, 1.2%, whose pupil enrolment is below 350 and, therefore, do not receive an allocation for guidance.

School Accommodation.

Michael Lowry

Question:

598 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if correspondence (details supplied) has been received by her Department; when the school mentioned in the correspondence will be approved in order to proceed with the building of a gym and canteen facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32595/05]

The correspondence in question has been received by the Department of Education and Science. An initial application for additional accommodation, to include several specialist rooms, an administration area, a general purpose/dining area and servery, storage areas and a physical education hall, was received from the management authority of the school in question. Subsequently the school submitted an application for funding towards the provision of six small rooms in temporary accommodation for special needs education.

The overall accommodation needs of the school are being examined in the Department to ensure any capital funding being provided is appropriate to meet the school's long-term accommodation needs. My officials are in contact with the school authority in this regard. The project is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme, 2005 to 2009.

Education Funding.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

599 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to address the deficits in the funding of second level education (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32619/05]

There have been significant improvements in the level of funding for second level schools in recent years. In addition to the increases in the standard per capita grant that now stands at €286 per pupil from January last, voluntary secondary schools have benefited additionally by the introduction of grants under the school services support initiative. The standard support services grant that was increased to €103 from January 2005, was increased further to €145 per pupil in the case of voluntary secondary schools. This increased grant of €42 per pupil is paid in addition to the range of equalisation grants of up to €15,554, €44.44 per pupil, per annum that have also been approved for voluntary secondary schools.

Teacher allocations for second level schools are approved by the Department of Education and Science on an annual basis in accordance with generally applied rules relating to recognised pupil enrolment. In general a ratio of 18:1 is applied in respect of recognised pupils on established junior certificate, leaving certificate, repeat leaving certificate and transition year programmes and a ratio of 16:1 is applied in respect of recognised pupils on the leaving certificate, vocational programme, post leaving certificate courses and leaving certificate applied. There have been significant improvements in the pupil teacher ratio at post-primary level in recent years. In 1997-98, there was one teacher for every 16 pupils. For the school year 2004-05, the pupil teacher ratio has fallen to 13.4:1.

There has also been enormous progress made over several years in increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special educational needs. At second level, there are approximately 1,614 whole time equivalent teachers in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares with approximately 558 teachers that were in place in the 2001-2002 school year for such pupils. In addition, there are 1,023 whole time equivalent special needs assistants in second level schools compared with 292 in the 2001-2002 school year.

The new action plan for educational inclusion, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, aims to ensure the educational needs of children and young people from disadvantaged communities are prioritised and effectively addressed. The plan provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated school support programme which will bring together and build upon, several existing interventions for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage.

At second level, this new standardised system for identifying disadvantage in schools will replace all of the existing arrangements for targeting schools for participation in initiatives to address disadvantage. As a result, some 150 second level schools that will be included in a new school support programme will benefit from additional staffing and funding supports including increased funding under the school book grant scheme, access to home school community liaison scheme services, access to a range of supports, both academic and non-academic, to retain young people in school. These measures will be extended to second level schools in the school support programme on a phased basis.

These significant increases in the funding of post-primary schools represent a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of schools.

Ionad Náisiúnta Oideachais Gaeilge.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

600 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science when work commenced on the development of the issue of the specific rationale and function of the Ionad Náisiúnta/Baile Mhúirne; the progress which has been made to date in 2005; the precise contribution which has been made by An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta; if Údarás and Foras na Gaeilge have been involved in the process; when precisely this issue will be finalised, bearing in mind the considerable sums of money already expended on the project and the several ministerial commitments given thereto. [32620/05]

The process of clarifying the specific rationale and function of the proposed Ionad Náisiúnta Oideachais Gaeilge in Baile Mhúirne is ongoing. It necessarily involves An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta, Foras na Gaeilge, Údarás na Gaeltachta and the Department for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. Officials of the Department of Education and Science have met senior representatives of each of these bodies to discuss the rationale for the proposed centre along with its role and functions. The outcomes of these discussions are being considered within the Department of Education and Science. The further views of An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta have also been sought and are awaited.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Pat Breen

Question:

601 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the class size in each primary school in County Clare for 2003-2004 and for 2004-2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32621/05]

Pat Breen

Question:

602 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio in each primary school in County Clare for 2003-2004 and for 2004-2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32622/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 601 and 602 together.

The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available in the Department of Education and Science. If the Deputy would like information on particular schools, I will be happy to provide it.

School Staffing.

Michael Lowry

Question:

603 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to a redundancy at a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason for the redundancy; if this person will be reinstated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32623/05]

Since 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education, through its network of locally based special education needs organisers, is responsible for processing any application for additional special educational needs resources. The recruitment, employment and dismissal of individual special need assistants are matters for each school authority. In terminating a special need assistant's contract of employment, the provisions of the Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Act 1973 to 2001 should be applied. A special needs assistant who is in service for a period of between 13 weeks and two years should be given a minimum of one week's notice in accordance with the terms of the Act. Employees may be required to work the notice period or may accept payment in lieu of notice, if offered.

In the case in question, the special needs assistant concerned was given notice on 28 October 2005. She will, however, continue to be paid on my Department's payroll up to and including 6 November 2005.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Pat Breen

Question:

604 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to reduce pupil-teacher ratios in order that it does not take an additional 32 pupils to go from a three to a four-teacher school, an additional 34 pupils to go from a four to a five-teacher school, an additional 30 pupils to go from a five to a six-teacher school, and a 29:1 pupil-teacher ratio being applied thereafter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32624/05]

Pat Breen

Question:

605 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether pupil-teacher ratios which vary between 30:1 and 34:1 for schools with teachers numbering between three and six is acceptable in view of the fact that the curriculum is premised on much smaller class sizes; the remedial action she may be considering to address these contradictions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32625/05]

Pat Breen

Question:

606 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether the higher pupil-teacher ratios being applied to schools with teachers numbering between three and five is discriminatory against smaller, usually rural-based schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32626/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 604 to 606, inclusive, together.

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, issued annually to all primary schools. The system for allocating teachers to primary schools is based on ensuring an overall maximum class of 29 in each school. The staffing schedule refers to the allocation of mainstream teaching posts in addition to a principal. In the case of smaller schools, the principal has a class teaching role. Accordingly, in the case of most smaller schools the actual class size is less than 29 pupils.

Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio and in average class size in recent years at primary level. The most recent figure available for average class size at primary level refers to the 2003-2004 school year, when the average class size was 23.9, down from 26.6 in 1996/97. The pupil-teacher ratio at primary level, which includes all the teachers including resource teachers, has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-1997 school year to a projected 17.1:1 in 2004-2005.

More than 4,500 additional teachers have been employed in our primary schools since 1997. In allocating teaching posts regard has been had to the commitment of the Government to reduce class size, tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for pupils with special educational needs. The additional teaching posts created since 1997 have been deployed to address all of these priorities. Providing for children with special educational needs, there are now more than 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares with fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.

The new action plan for educational inclusion, delivering equality of opportunity in schools will result in reduced class sizes of 24:1 at senior level and 20:1 at junior level in 150 primary schools serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage. In line with the commitment in the programme for Government, class sizes will be reduced still further. The deployment of additional posts will be decided within the context of the overall policy that priority will be given to pupils with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and junior classes.

Pat Breen

Question:

607 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether the current most favourable pupil-teacher ratio of 29:1 for primary schools is excessively high; the pupil-teacher ratio regarded as optimal; the timetable she envisages for achieving class ratios of 20:1 as originally promised by the Government within a five-year period in the programme for Government 2002; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32627/05]

Pat Breen

Question:

608 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the average primary school class size here in the school year 2004-05; the average primary school class size in County Clare for that period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32628/05]

Pat Breen

Question:

609 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the primary school pupil-teacher ratio here in the school year 2004-05; the primary school pupil-teacher ratio in County Clare for that period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32629/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 607 to 609, inclusive, together.

The average class size for pupils in ordinary classes in ordinary schools in County Clare for the 2004-05 school year was 23.1 and the national average primary class size was 23.9. The figure for the national pupil teacher ratio for the 2004-05 is not yet available.

My Department does not keep pupil-teacher ratio statistics on a county basis. Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio and in average class size in recent years at primary level. The most recent figure available for average class size at primary level refers to the 2003-2004 school year, when the average class size was 23.9, down from 26.6 in 1996-1997. The pupil-teacher ratio at primary level, which includes all the teachers including resource teachers, has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-1997 school year to a projected 17.1:1 in 2004-2005.

More than 4,500 additional teachers have been employed in our primary schools since 1997. In allocating teaching posts regard has been had to the commitments of the Government to reduce class size, tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for pupils with special educational needs. The additional teaching posts created since 1997 have been deployed to address all of these priorities.

In relation to providing for children with special educational needs, there are now more than 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares with fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.

The Deputy will be aware of the new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS or delivering equality of opportunity in schools. This action plan will result in reduced class sizes of 24:1 at senior level and 20:1 at junior level in 150 primary schools serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage.

In line with the commitment in the programme for Government, class sizes will be reduced still further. The deployment of additional posts will be decided within the context of the overall policy that priority will be given to pupils with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and junior classes.

Question No. 610 answered with QuestionNo. 136.

Company Closures.

John Gormley

Question:

611 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the guarantee to the effect that her Department will continue to support the research functions previously discharged by ITE; if so, the position regarding the current status of projects such as the Irish-Spanish dictionary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32658/05]

John Gormley

Question:

612 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the progress on the liquidation of ITE/the Linguistics Institute of Ireland; when same will conclude in view of the fact that the liquidation process has taken almost two years; the reason for the delay in liquidating this company, which had no operational debts; if all legal issues relating to ITE have been resolved; the projects currently being undertaken by persons who are still employed at ITE; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32659/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 611 and 612 together.

At an extraordinary general meeting of ITE, held on 18 July 2003, the company agreed to initiate a process of voluntary liquidation. This decision was a matter for the members in accordance with their memorandum and articles of association and relevant company law. I understand that a meeting of the executive committee of ITE on 5 December 2003 agreed a timetable for the appointment of a liquidator, who was subsequently appointed on 9 January 2004.

My Department has given a commitment to provide every assistance to the company in giving effect to its decision, in partnership with the staff of the institute, and has been working closely with the liquidator since his appointment in this regard. This includes exploring possible arrangements for the continuation of certain research activities previously carried out by the institute and, in the interests of assisting with an orderly wind-up, facilitating appropriate redeployment or other appropriate arrangements for staff in line with general public service policy in these matters and subject to agreement with the Department of Finance. A number of ITE staff have been redeployed to date and options that may be available for remaining staff continue to be explored by my Department. The entitlements of those employees for whom appropriate re-deployment arrangements are not made will be determined in accordance with the terms of their contracts.

There are a number of legal issues in relation to the liquidation of ITE and the liquidator is progressing these matters. It would not be appropriate for me to comment further on these issues. There are also a number of ongoing projects and publications to be finalised in ITE. As part of the completion of the liquidation process the liquidator is also progressing these matters.

Schools Building Projects.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

613 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if a senior official of her Department will be assigned to sort out difficulties in respect of the proposed building project at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 6W; the views of staff, pupils and parents at what are seen as long delays with a project first brought to her Department six years ago; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32665/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. The school in question was listed in my announcement of April this year as a project to progress through architectural planning up to pre-tender stage, that is up to and including advanced architectural planning.

Following the announcement in April this year, my Department's planning section undertook a review of the school's enrolment and revised it upwards to 800 pupils. The school was informed of this in August 2005. In September 2005 updated schedules of accommodation, to accommodate the increased long-term enrolment, were issued to the school for their acceptance or comments, as well as a request to submit an addendum to the stage one submission based on the revised schedules and a number of observations from my Department's technical staff on the original submission.

The school authorities accepted these schedules in October 2005 and the addendum to the stage one submission is still awaited. When this is received and reviewed the school building section will be in further contact with the school authorities advising them on how to proceed.

Grant Payments.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

614 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if a special grant will be made available to Tallaght Youth Service to allow Foróige and Youth Club progress to provide a youth club premises in Tallaght east; and the assurances and support which would be available. [32667/05]

My Department deals with the non-formal education of Ireland's young people and provides support by way of financial and other assistance to those organisations providing youth work programmes and services. The funding available meets the costs of direct support for national voluntary youth organisations and a number of related activities which include special projects for youth, particularly in disadvantaged areas, youth information services and grants to local youth groups and clubs.

My Department does not operate a scheme of capital funding for youth clubs or youth organisations. The local youth club grant scheme makes provision for the support of youth work activities at local level. These grants are made available to youth clubs and groups through the Vocational Educational Committees, in this instance, County Dublin VEC. The scheme is open to all those involved in the provision of youth work services at a local level and is allocated in line with the priorities within those areas and within the overall financial resources available for the scheme.

Grants are grouped under two headings, namely youth grants designed to aid the ongoing costs of youth clubs and groups and special youth grants of a once-off nature intended to aid special youth work initiatives.

Schools Building Projects.

James Breen

Question:

615 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made in relation to a new school (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32776/05]

The school referred to by the Deputy has made an application for capital funding towards the provision of additional accommodation. An upward trend in enrolments in recent years necessitated a review of enrolment and demographic trends to ensure that any capital funding being provided is appropriate to meet the school's long term accommodation needs. This review is currently underway and officials will be in contact with the school authority in this regard. The project is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2005-2009.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

616 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the provision of funding to secure an additional portakabin for a primary school (details supplied) in County Cork which is overcrowded and already using a number of portakabins; and if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the pupil numbers continue to increase annually. [32805/05]

My Department is in receipt of an application for capital funding towards a permanent extension from the school referred to by the Deputy. In order to make a full assessment of the application additional details were sought from the school authority and these details are awaited. The school authority is in receipt of rental grant aid toward the provision of temporary accommodation pending the delivery of the permanent extension required.

The school authority did not submit an application under the additional classroom accommodation scheme for 2006.

Special Educational Needs.

Martin Ferris

Question:

617 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of special needs assistants attached to each school in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32808/05]

The total number of special needs assistants employed to meet the needs of specified children in primary, voluntary, secondary and community and comprehensive schools in County Kerry is 209. Following is a breakdown of the number in each school for the Deputy's information.

Primary SNA's in Co. Kerry as at 4/11/05

School Number

School Name

Address

Number Employed

02418V

KNOCKADERRY N S

FARRANFORE, CO KERRY

1

02849C

KENMARE BOYS N S

KENMARE, CO KERRY

2

04062S

LISTOWEL PRESENTATION PRIMARY

LISTOWEL, CO KERRY

2

06227L

S N MHAOLCHEADAIR

BAILE NA NGALL, TRA LÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

1

08320L

KENMARE CONVENT

KENMARE, CO KERRY

2

08687J

S N MUIRE GAN SMÁL

NA CORRA, CATHAIR SAIBHÍN, CO CHIARRAÍ

1

08791E

LISSIVIGEEN MXD N S

KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

1

09260B

S N LIOS TEILIC

TRAILÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

09708T

SCOIL MHUIRE

KNOCKNAGOSHEL, TRALEE, CO. KERRY.

2

09837H

GAP OF DUNLOE N S

BEAUFORT, CO KERRY

1

09938N

CURRANES N S

CASTLEISLAND, CO KERRY

2

10014Q

COOLICK NATIONAL SCHOOL

CILL AIRNE, CO CHIRRAÍ

2

10049M

LOUGHGUITANE N S

CILL AIRNE, CO CHIRRAÍ

1

10050U

ST GERTRUDE’S

SCAIRT LIATH, KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

1

10326M

SCOIL NUACHABHAIL

GORT A TSLÉIBHE, BAILE MHIC EALGOID, TRALAÍ, CO. CHIARRAÍ

3

10394G

SCOIL MHUIRE B&C

OILEÁN CHIARRAÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

1

10775S

KNOCKANURE N S

NEWTOWNSANDS, CO KERRY

1

10957B

S N MHUIRE DE LOURDES

LIXNAW, CO KERRY

2

11067T

S N NAOMH BRÍD

DUBHATH, LIOS TUATHAIL, CO CHIARRAÍ

3

11405N

FAHA NATIONAL SCHOOL

KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

2

12354E

CLOGHER MXD N S

BALLYMACELLIGOTT, CO KERRY

1

12587E

COOLARD MXD N S

LISTOWEL, CO KERRY

1

12701W

SCOIL AN FHAILL MÓR

CAHERCIVEEN, CO KERRY

2

12832O

SCOIL MHUIRE B

KILLORGLIN, CO KERRY

3

13530D

SCOIL MHUIRE

TOBAR MUI DOIRE, TRAILÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

13540G

MURHUR N S

MOYVANE, LISTOWEL, CO KERRY

1

13542K

CAHIRCIVEEN CONVENT

CAHIRCIVEEN, CO KERRY

1

13615L

SCOIL EOIN

TRAILÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

8

14767Q

AGHACASLA N S

CAMP, CO KERRY

1

14998M

LYRE A CROMPANE N S

LISTOWEL, CO KERRY

1

15945T

FIRIES MXD N S

KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

1

15978L

CURRAHEEN MXD N S

GLENBEIGH, CO KERRY

1

16014A

ST. FINIAN’S

AN CORAIN, CO CHIARRAÍ

1

16217O

AN BHREAC CHLUAIN B

ANNASCAUL, TRALEE, CO KERRY

3

16702V

SC MHUIRE NA MBRÁITHRE

CAHERCIVEEN, CO KERRY

3

16703A

SCOIL NA MBRÁITHRE

AN DAINGEAN, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

16851P

BALLYBUNION B N S

BALLYBUNION, CO KERRY

1

16871V

S N AN CHROÍ NAOFA

TRAIGHLÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

16898S

S N BREANDÁN NAOFA

CATHAR UÍ MHODHRAIN, TRAIGHLÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

16917T

NAOMH PÁDRAIG MEASC

CATHAIR LEITHIN, TRAIGHLÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

16987R

S N NAOMH IOSEF

RATHMORE, CO KERRY

1

17012B

S N AN FHOSSA

KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

1

17072T

S N CILL CRUÍNN

LIOS TUATHAIL, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

17161S

KILTALLAGH N S

KILTALLAGH, CASTLEMAINE, CO KERRY

1

17231N

S N CILL CUIMIN

CILL AIRNE, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

17365L

CAHORREIGH N S

CILL AIRNE, CO CHIARRAÍ

1

17646T

S N UAIMH BHREANAINN

TRAIGHLÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

17710C

S N AN CHUILLEANAIG

KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

5

17915U

FREASTOGAIL MHUIRE MXD

KILLAHAN, ABBEYDORNEY, CO KERRY

5

18084I

SCOIL MHUIRE GAN SMÁL

LIXNAW, CO KERRY

1

18233W

SCOIL PARÓISTEACH

TRALEE, CO KERRY

2

18325E

NAOMH CHARTHAIGH

BOYS NATIONAL SCHOOL, CASTLEISLAND, CO KERRY

1

18414D

S N GLEANN BEITHE

GLENBEIGH, CO KERRY

3

18573A

S N DROM NA CORADH

CAUSEWAY, CO KERRY

1

18590A

SCOIL NAOMH ERC

BALLYHEIGUE, TRALEE, CO KERRY

1

18665F

S N MAINISTIR Ó DTORNA

MAINISTIR Ó DTORNA, TRAIGHLÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

1

18702I

SPA NATIONAL SCHOOL

TRALEE, CO KERRY

3

18705O

TARBERT NATIONAL SCHOOL

TARBERT, CO KERRY

1

18832V

CASTLEMAINE N S

CASTLEMAINE, CO KERRY

4

18856M

SCOIL NAOMH IOSEF

BALLYHEIGUE, TRALEE, CO KERRY

2

19376D

ST ITA’S & ST JOSEPH’S NS

BALLOONAGH, TRALEE, CO KERRY

8

19384C

ARDFERT CENTRAL N S

ARD FHEARTA, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

19448C

S N RÉALT NA MARA

TUATH Ó SIOSTA, CILL AIRNE, CO CHIARRAÍ

1

19458F

KILGARVAN CENTRAL SCHL

KILGARVAN, CO KERRY

2

19487M

MERCY CONVENT

KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

2

19512I

ST. OLIVER’S NS

BALLYCASHEEN, KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

13

19536W

HOLY FAMILY

HOLY FAMILY NS, BALLOONAGH, TRALEE, CO KERRY

2

19547E

ST. FRANCIS SPECIAL SCH

BEAUFORT, CO KERRY

14

19548G

NANO NAGLE N SCHOOL

NANO NAGLE SPECIAL NS, LISTOWEL, COUNTY KERRY

24

19631Q

GAELSCOIL MHIC EASMAINN

RATH RÓNAIN, TRA LÍ, CO CHIARRAÍ

3

19659P

ST. BRENDAN’S N S

FENIT, TRALEE, CO KERRY

1

19745I

SCARTAGLIN NEW CENT SC

SCAIRTEACH A GHLINNE, CILL AIRNE, CO CHIARRAÍ

2

19805A

BALLYDUFF CENTRAL

BALLYDUFF, TRALEE, CO KERRY

2

19957A

DROMCLOUGH N S

LISTOWEL, CO KERRY

4

19986H

S N EOIN BAISTE

GARRAI NA DTOR, LIOS PÓIL, CO CHIARRAÍ

1

20158A

TRALEE EDUCATE TOGETHER NS

COLLIS SANDES HOUSE, KILLEEN OAKPARK, TRALEE, CO. KERRY

3

TOTAL 196

Secondary and CBC SNA's in Co. Kerry as at 3/11/05

School Number

School Name

Address

Number Employed

61220I

ST. JOSEPH’S SECONDARY SCHOOL

DOON ROAD, BALLYBUNION, CO KERRY

1

61260U

MEÁN SCOIL NAOMH JOSEPH

CLOCHAR NA TOIRBHIRTE, CASTLEISLAND, CO KERRY

1

61290G

MEÁN SCOIL NA mBRÁITHRE CRÍOSTAÍ

DAINGEAN UÍ CHÚIS, CO. CHIARRAÍ

1

61340S

ST. BRIGID’S SECONDARY SCHOOL

NEW STREET, KILLARNEY, CO. KERRY

1

61360B

THE INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL

KILLORGLIN (IVERAGH ROAD), CO. KERRY

1

61380H

PRESENTATION SECONDARY SCHOOL

LISTOWEL, CO. KERRY

1

68070E

MERCY SECONDARY SCHOOL

MOUNTHAWK, TRALEE, CO KERRY

4

81006S

COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL

TARBERT, LISTOWEL, CO. KERRY

2

91503P

POBALSCOIL INBHEAR SCÉINE

KENMARE, CO. KERRY

1

TOTAL 13

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Joe Costello

Question:

618 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of students at second level who are in classes of more than 30; the number of classes from 25 to 30 and the number of classes from 20 to 25; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32810/05]

The specific information requested in relation to class size at post primary is not readily available within my Department. However, in relation to teacher allocations for second level schools the following is the general position.

Allocations are approved by my Department on an annual basis in accordance with generally applied rules relating to recognised pupil enrolment. In general a ratio of 18:1 is applied in respect of recognised pupils on established junior certificate, leaving certificate, repeat leaving certificate and transition year programmes and a ratio of 16:1 is applied in respect of recognised pupils on the leaving certificate vocational programme, post-leaving certificate courses and leaving certificate applied. Each school management authority is required to organise its curriculum, teaching timetable and subject options having regard to pupils' needs within the limits of its approved teacher allocation. Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio at post-primary level in recent years. The ratio has fallen from 16:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 13.4:1 in the 2004-05 school year. The rules for allocating teaching posts provide that where a school management authority is unable to meet essential curricular commitments, my Department will consider applications for additional short-term support. An independent appeals committee is available to school authorities who wish to appeal the adequacy of their teacher allocation.

Question No. 619 answered with QuestionNo. 136.

Adult Education.

Beverley Flynn

Question:

620 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in receipt of an EU pension was denied access to a VTOS course in County Mayo two weeks after commencing the course. [32779/05]

To be eligible for VTOS a person must be in receipt of a specified payment from the Department of Social and Family Affairs. A dependent spouse of someone in receipt of such a payment may also apply to join a VTOS programme. Payments other than those already recognised for this purpose cannot be deemed to meet the eligibility requirement. Inquiries are being made with the VEC to clarify the position in this case.

Gender Equity.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

621 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to achieve gender equity in education and universal primary education as undertaken in the millennium development goals for ending world poverty; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32860/05]

The first millennium development goal to which the Deputy refers concerns the elimination of gender disparity in primary and secondary education. I am committed to promoting and sustaining full compliance with gender equality legislation throughout the education system. A gender equality unit was established in the Department in 2000, and became fully operational in 2001. One of the main functions of the gender equality unit is to co-ordinate and monitor the process of mainstreaming a gender perspective into all areas of the education system. Gender mainstreaming involves actively and openly taking into account, at the planning stage, possible effects of policies or measures on the respective situation of men and women. The unit has also commissioned research into a range of areas related to gender and education. This research will add to our understanding of gender issues in the education sector, thus enabling the development of more informed and effective policy.

In addition to this, the gender equality unit has funded a wide range of resource materials for students and teachers at primary and post-primary levels. Most recently it has produced a CD ROM and textbook on "Discovering Women in Irish History" and a resource pack for civic, social and political education called "VOTE: Exploring Democracy, Equality, Participation and Elections". The unit is currently finalising "Equal Measures", a resource developed for primary schools to help teachers, parents, pupils, the school community and boards of management in formulating a gender equality policy and in promoting gender equality in primary schools.

The second millennium development goal to which the Deputy refers is that of ensuring that all boys and girls complete a full course of primary schooling. The current system provides for free and compulsory primary education for all children. Within the context of this provision, a range of supports is provided to ensure that children complete their primary education. Since 1997, the Government has dramatically increased the number of teachers in our primary schools. More than 4,500 additional teachers, including nearly 2,500 resource teachers, have been employed. These additional teaching posts have been used to reduce class sizes, to tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for children with special needs.

We are currently providing increased resources for schools in disadvantaged areas to improve their school completion rates by offering extra supports for their students. These include extra educational supports and services in-school, after school and during holiday times. Working with parents to promote school attendance is also an important part of the work of the home school community liaison co-ordinators appointed to our disadvantaged schools.

Other measures designed to improve school completion include the establishment of the National Educational Welfare Board in 2002. The priority the Government attaches to tackling early school leaving is evident from the fact that the budget for the welfare board has been increased by 20% in 2005. In addition, €24 million is being provided this year for the school completion programme.

The new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS or delivering equality of opportunity in schools, which will be introduced on a phased basis starting during the current school year, aims to ensure that the educational needs of children and young people, from pre-school to completion of upper second level education, that is from three to 18 years, from disadvantaged communities are prioritised and effectively addressed. The new plan will involve an additional annual investment of some €40m on full implementation. It will also involve the creation of about 300 additional posts across the education system generally.

A key element of this new action plan is the putting in place of a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage in our primary and second-level schools, which will result in improved targeting of resources at those most in need. As a result of the identification process, approximately 600 primary schools, comprising 300 urban and 300 rural, and 150 second-level schools will be included in a new school support programme, SSP. The SSP will bring together, and build upon, a number of existing interventions for schools and school clusters and communities with a concentrated level of educational disadvantage. Under DEIS, additional clusters will be created under the school completion programme which provides a wide range of targeted supports on an individual and group basis to children and young people who may be at risk of early school leaving. We anticipate being in a position to notify participating schools in relation to the outcome of the ongoing identification process by the end of the year.

Bunscoileanna sa Ghaeltacht.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

622 D'fhiafraigh Mr. O’Shea den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta an bhfuil a fhios aici nach bhfuil ach 106 as 139 de na bunscoileanna sa Ghaeltacht ag múineadh go hiomlán trí Ghaeilge, an raibh cainteanna aici leis an Roinn Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta, faoi seo; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas faoin ábhar. [30723/05]

Léiríonn na tuarascálacha a deineadh ar oideachas Gaeltachta le blianta anuas go bhfuil éirithe leis an Stát córas bunoideachais agus iar-bhunoideachais trí mheán na Gaeilge a chruthú sa Ghaeltacht, ach go bhfuil an córas sin go mór faoi bhrú faoi láthair de bharr na gcúinsí teanga ina bhfuil sé ag feidhmiú. Eascraíonn na deacrachtaí go háirithe le 50 bliain anuas as na hathruithe atá tagtha ar phatrúin teanga an phobail a fhágann go bhfuil an scoil Ghaeltachta agus an múinteoir Gaeltachta ag déileáil le grúpaí suntasacha de dhaltaí nach í an Ghaeilge a máthairtheanga. Bíonn an Béarla in usáid mar mheán teagaisc ar uairibh chun freastal orthu san nach bhfuil ach an beagán Gaeilge acu, cé go bhfuil cónaí orthu sa Ghaeltacht. Ní mór a chur san áireamh gur scoileanna beaga iad formhór bhunscoileanna na Gaeltachta. Go dtí le déanaí nuair a cuireadh tús leis an scéim chomhtháite Gaeilge "Séideán Sí", bhí a lán acu faoi mhíbhuntáiste ó thaobh áiseanna de agus freisin bhí deacrachtaí faoi leith acu múinteoirí a mhealladh le cur isteach ar phostanna atá á dtairiscint acu agus teacht ar mhúinteoirí atá toilteanach agus lán-ábalta teagasc go muiníneach trí mheán na Gaeilge.

Tá na scoileanna ag cur fáilte is fiche roimh Séideán Sí agus taitníonn an treallamh go léir a ghabhann le Séideán Si leis na múinteoirí agus leis na daltaí, agus freisin tá éileamh ar Séideán Sí ins na gnáthscoileanna. Toisc gur cúrsa comhtháite atá i gceist, tá na scileanna go léir teanga á bhfeidhmiú ar bhealach a chuireann tús le húsáid na Gaeilge ó thaobh chúrsaí cumarsáide agus chúrsaí taitnimh de.

School Curriculum.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

623 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if it would be beneficial to have an element of volunteerism placed in the curriculum for transition year students in schools here; the best way to put volunteering into schools and colleges; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30681/05]

I am aware of the recent Oireachtas joint committee report on volunteers and volunteering in Ireland which recommends that transition year should strongly promote projects which involve a core element of volunteering. The transition year programme is a one-year optional programme, taken by some 24,000 students annually, which provides a bridge between junior and senior cycle. Its aim is to promote the personal, social, educational and vocational development of students and prepare them for their role as autonomous, participative and responsible members of society. Work experience and community involvement tend to be key components of transition year programmes since these activities can contribute enormously to heightening students' social awareness and their sense of responsibility as well as encouraging self-directed learning, personal development and maturity. Through these activities, the transition year can act as a powerful catalyst for developing a real partnership with the local community.

The planning of curriculum content for the transition year is the responsibility of the individual school having regard to guidelines issued by my Department. In establishing its curriculum, schools should take into consideration the possibilities offered by employers, other work-providing agencies and community-based initiatives along with the wider interests and needs of the local community. The transition year programme's guidelines for schools issued by my Department state:

"experience in any of the community/care services would be relevant as an element of preparation for adult life. Services such as those concerned with social, economic, physical, sensory and mental disabilities, and for special groups such as children, the chronically ill and the aged are most appropriate."

In addition these guidelines state: "It is intended that the transition year should create opportunities to vary the learning environment and to dispel the notion that learning is something that happens only, or even most effectively in the classroom."

When considering volunteerism among transition year students, the young social innovators programme is particularly relevant. This is an exciting and challenging opportunity for young people together with their teachers in transition year, to engage in social awareness education and social action at local level. It is now a nationwide initiative that is open to all schools in the country that have a transition year programme. To date, young social innovators across the country have been involved in numerous community projects including setting up a youth club where none existed, making playground equipment for pupils of a special school, making buildings more wheelchair-accessible, building a portion of a school in India and setting up an intergenerational social initiative in a town. These projects fit in very well with the young social innovators' vision that "Every young person has the ability to be a social innovator, to create change in how we live, think and care for others in the community and to shape the future fabric of society".

Also relevant is Gaisce, the national challenge award given by the President to young people in Ireland between the ages of 15 and 25, which forms part of many transition year programmes in schools across Ireland. Community involvement, for example working with the elderly, forms part of this challenge.

In its study of transition year in schools, the Economic and Social Research Institute, ESRI, found that 76%, the vast majority, of schools offered civic and social studies. In many cases, this included voluntary activity, charity work and community action programmes. I am very supportive of fostering volunteerism among students and I believe that transition year programmes in our schools are making a significant contribution in this regard. Higher education plays an important role in terms of personal development. Individuals who participate in higher education should be enriched by that experience. This enrichment occurs in a variety of ways, such as the acquisition of new knowledge, the development of skills and competencies and the exposure to new opportunities that foster personal development. Higher education is about developing individuals to their fullest potential and equipping them with the depth of skills necessary to enhance their life chances and contribute fully to society. For the nation, the social and cultural returns from higher education are just as important and valuable as the economic returns.

Volunteering activities provide students with important opportunities to further foster their own personal development, become more aware of civic and social responsibilities and ultimately enrich their higher education experience. These are valuable skills that will be carried with them throughout their lives. In relation to the establishment of volunteering centres on the campuses of higher education institutions, I am aware that there is already considerable such activity taking place. All higher education institutions have a significant number of clubs and societies including charitable organisations that provide students with considerable opportunity to participate in volunteering activities. I do not have exact statistics on the numbers of such clubs and societies or on the size of their student membership.

Questions Nos. 624 and 625 answered with Question No. 154.
Question No. 626 answered with QuestionNo. 136.

Special Educational Needs.

Jack Wall

Question:

627 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science when a person can be allocated special needs assistance of 12.5 hours; if the allocation is for the full term or can the hours be changed at any time during the period of the term; if there can be a re-assessment; if a person’s parents are notified before such an assessment takes place; the mitigating circumstances that will cause such an assessment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32964/05]

The Deputy will be aware that with effect from 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, has taken over 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, will process the relevant application for special needs supports including access to special needs assistance, SNA, supports. The SENO will consider the application and where the care needs of the pupil have been clearly identified in a professional report and the criteria for the allocation of such support as outlined in circular 07/02 is met, the support will be granted and the school will be informed of the decision. The parents will also be notified by either the principal or the principal and the SENO. The support may be granted on an individual or shared basis depending on the care needs of the child. It is envisaged that each decision will be reviewed at least on a yearly basis but it may be reviewed in a shorter timeframe if necessary, for example if additional relevant information is made available.

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.

Higher Education Grants.

Michael Lowry

Question:

628 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science when a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary will be sanctioned for a higher education grant payment. [32996/05]

The decision on eligibility for third level grants is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is desired.

A written response was issued by my Department to a query raised by North Tipperary VEC, the relevant awarding body in this case, in with regard to the grant applicant referred to by the Deputy. The applicant's eligibility for grant assistance will be assessed with reference to the terms and conditions of funding, prescribed under the relevant maintenance grant scheme, and the clarification received from my Department to the query raised. If an individual applicant considers that he or she has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, he or she may appeal to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down in writing by the relevant local authority or VEC and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in his or her case, a letter outlining the position may be sent to my Department. Alternatively, as already indicated, the local authority or VEC may itself, in exceptional circumstances, seek clarification on issues from my Department. However, it is not open to me or my Department to depart from the terms of the maintenance grants schemes in individual cases.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Michael Lowry

Question:

629 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the strategies employed by her for reducing class sizes in primary schools; the average class sizes in schools in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33001/05]

In the 2003-2004 school year the average class size in ordinary classes in ordinary primary schools in Tipperary North was 22.8 while in Tipperary South the average was 23.0. Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio and in average class size in recent years at primary level. The most recent figure available for average class size at primary level refers to the 2003-2004 school year, when the average class size was 23.9, down from 26.6 in 1996-1997. The pupil-teacher ratio at primary level, which includes all the teachers such as resource teachers, has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-1997 school year to 17.1:1, projected, in 2004-2005.

Over 4,500 additional teachers have been employed in our primary schools since 1997. In allocating teaching posts regard has been had to the commitments of the Government to reduce class size, tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for pupils with special educational needs. The additional teaching posts created since 1997 have been deployed to address all of these priorities. With regard to providing for children with special educational needs, there are now more than 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares with fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.

The Deputy will be aware of the new action plan for educational inclusion, entitled DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools. This action plan will result in reduced class sizes of 24:1 at senior level and 20:1 at junior level in 150 primary schools serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage. In line with the commitment in the programme for Government, class sizes will be reduced still further. The deployment of additional posts will be decided within the context of the overall policy that priority will be given to pupils with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and junior classes.

Multi-Denominational Schools.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

630 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the recent submission from Educate Together regarding the future development of multi-denominational education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33002/05]

The level of funding that my Department provides to Educate Together as a school management body is on a par with that provided to Foras Patrúnachta na Scoileanna Lánghaeilge, the Church of Ireland Board of Education, the Islamic Board of Education and the National Association of Boards of Management in Special Education.

However, following discussions with Educate Together my Department has provided additional funding to Educate Together in 2005 to meet the immediate issues of concern to that body. The amount provided in 2005 was €81,133. The matter of the future funding to be provided to the primary management bodies, including Educate Together, in 2006 will be considered as part of the normal Estimates process. In accordance with the provisions of the Education Act 1998, I as Minister am obliged to have regard to the need to reflect the diversity of educational services provided in the State.

Applying this provision to the development of multi-denominational education, at primary level my Department has supported the establishment of a significant number of new multi-denominational schools in recent years. Of the 24 new schools granted provisional recognition in the past three years alone, 12 are multi-denominational. At post-primary level, the requirement for multi-denominational education is met by the State sector through non-designated vocational education committee schools. To underpin the establishment of new schools, my Department has made a number of changes in recent years which have assisted patron bodies in the provision of accommodation. One of these changes, which was strongly welcomed by the patron body for multi-denominational schools, was the abolition of the local contribution to the building costs for State-owned school buildings which had cost up to €63,000 per school. Other innovations include the development of the design and build model to provide permanent accommodation much faster — such as in the case of the new multi-denominational school in Griffeen Valley, Lucan, which was designed and built in less than 13 months.

Many multi-denominational primary schools are established in areas of rapidly expanding population growth. School building projects in these areas are assigned a band 1 rating under the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects. This is the highest band rating possible which results in the delivery of permanent accommodation in the shortest timeframe achievable. These measures are a strong indication of my Department's commitment to supporting an educational diversity agenda, including multi-denominational education provision. It will continue to do so as part of its own statutory obligations and in the context of the national development plan which is structured to support the development of all educational sectors regardless of ethos.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

631 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of persons with disabilities she has appointed to State boards under the aegis of her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33025/05]

Appointments to State boards are in the first instance subject to the relevant legislation. The overriding requirement in the appointment process is that nominees will have the capacity to contribute effectively to the work of the boards on the basis of their knowledge and expertise in the relevant area. As a matter of general practice, my Department would not hold personal information on members of boards, including whether or not a person had a disability.

In respect of the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, the relevant legislation requires that "the Minister shall have regard to the desirability of there being among those appointed as members of the Council persons who themselves have special educational needs". Two persons who were appointed to the NCSE when established in 2003 had disabilities. Vacancies exist in respect of those two positions and I will have regard to the above requirement in the replacement process.

Decentralisation Programme.

Denis Naughten

Question:

632 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications in each grade that has been received from civil servants wishing to decentralise to Athlone; the number of positions at each grade required to facilitate the decentralisation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33035/05]

Approximately 102.5 whole-time equivalent posts are scheduled to decentralise to Athlone under the Government's decentralisation programme. I am enclosing for the information of the Deputy a breakdown of these posts by grade, which is subject to change.

The Deputy should note that the data presented are based on applications from civil servants opting for Athlone as a first choice made before the priority deadline of 7 September 2004 and new recruits from the Public Appointments Service opting for Athlone. It excludes applicants with Athlone as a second to tenth choice, applications received after the 7 September 2004 deadline and applicants who have declined an offer of Athlone and applicants from organisations in the wider public service. My Department is progressing the offers of decentralisation to Athlone in accordance with agreements negotiated by the Department of Finance with staff representative bodies holding recognition for Civil Service administrative grades. When all first choice applicants for Athlone have been processed, my Department will contact the Public Appointments Service to request it to contact applicants with Athlone as a second to tenth choice.

Breakdown of posts relocating to Athlone (position as at 7 November 2005)

Grade

Number of officers required

Number Applied

Shortfall

Management Advisory Committee

1

PO

5

5

0

AP

11

3

8

HEO

19

10

9

EO

30.5

21

9.5

SO

2

0

2

CO

23

50

-27

Professional /Technical

5

0

5

Service Officers/Telephonists

6

2

4

Total

102.5

91

Higher Education Grants.

John Cregan

Question:

633 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a lone parent (details supplied). [33086/05]

My Department funds three means-tested maintenance grant schemes for third level education students in respect of attendance on approved courses in approved third level institutions and one maintenance grant scheme in respect of students attending approved post-leaving certificate courses in approved PLC centres: the higher education grants scheme; the vocational education committees' scholarship scheme; the third level maintenance grants scheme for trainees; and the maintenance grant scheme for students attending post-leaving certificate courses.

Under the terms of the maintenance grants scheme for post-leaving certificate courses 2005, grants are available to eligible candidates who are entering approved PLC courses for the first time in the 2005-06 academic year. Under clause 3.2 of the PLC scheme candidates are ineligible if they already hold a FETAC level 5 qualification, formerly known as a FETAC — NCVA — level 2 qualification, or FETAC level 6 qualification, formerly known as a FETAC — NCVA — level 3 qualification, or a third level qualification at level 6 or higher.

However, notwithstanding this condition candidates who already hold a FETAC level 5 qualification, formerly known as a FETAC — NCVA — level 2 qualification, and are now pursuing a course that offers progression may be deemed eligible for grant aid. The candidate to whom the Deputy refers, already holds a FETAC level 5 qualification, formerly known as a FETAC — NCVA — level 2 qualification. As outlined above, the candidate is ineligible for grant assistance in respect of another course at FETAC level 5. I regret the news is not better for this student, but the Deputy will appreciate that the terms of the schemes are of general application and it is not open to me or my Department to depart from the terms of the scheme and make exceptions in individual cases.

Special Educational Needs.

John Cregan

Question:

634 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Education and Science the facilities, services and special centres of education which are available to children with dyslexia; her views on the institution in Belfast (details supplied); if there is a similar body here or if pupils can be referred to or linked into services it provides; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33087/05]

The provision of resources to address the learning difficulties of children with low levels of achievement in reading has been given a very high priority by my Department. As the Deputy is aware, my Department announced the new general allocation system last May with a view to it being implemented in all primary schools with effect from the start of the current school year. The general allocation scheme is designed to ensure that each school has enough resource teaching hours to meet the needs of children with high incidence special needs, such as specific learning disability, dyslexia and children with learning support needs.

There are now more than 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with learning support and special educational needs. This compares with fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs, including with dyslexia. Where the condition of a pupil with dyslexia is of a more serious nature, provision can be made in one of the four special schools or 23 special classes attached to ordinary primary schools and dedicated to the needs of children with dyslexia. All special schools and special classes for such children operate at a reduced pupil-teacher ratio of 9:1.

Second level pupils with specific learning disability are normally integrated into mainstream classes. In such situations, they may receive additional tutorial support through the remedial teacher, guidance counsellor and subject teacher. Depending on the degree of the condition, they may also be eligible for special arrangements in the certificate examinations. Each school in the free education scheme or block grant scheme with an enrolment of fewer than 600 recognised pupils, excluding pupils on post-leaving certificate programmes, receives an allocation of 0.5 of a learning support post. Schools with an enrolment of 600 such pupils and more receive a full learning support post. Where a pupil with special educational needs enrols in a post-primary school, it is open to the school to apply to the local special educational needs organiser, SENO, an official of the National Council for Special Education, for additional teaching support or special needs assistant support for the pupil.

There are a total of 531 remedial or learning support teachers, 689 guidance posts and 1,599 whole-time equivalent resource teachers in place at post-primary level. My Department also provides funding to schools for the purchase of specialised equipment such as computers to assist children with special educational needs, including children with dyslexia, with their education where such equipment is recommended by relevant professionals. Schools can apply to the local SENO directly for this support. Since the task force on dyslexia reported in 2001, a number of initiatives have been taken in the area of dyslexia, including the introduction of an on-line training course for teachers catering for pupils with dyslexia, the appointment of ten new learning support trainers to the primary curriculum support programme specifically to provide in-depth support for the implementation of learning support guidelines for children with dyslexia, and the development in association with the Department of Education in Northern Ireland of an information resource on dyslexia which is available in CD-ROM, DVD and video format.

My Department also provides funding to the Dyslexia Association of Ireland. This grant helps the organisation operate an information service for members and the public and assists in meeting the costs associated with the attendance of some children from disadvantaged backgrounds at workshops and programmes organised by the association. My Department is continuing to prioritise the development of the network of special educational provision for children with special educational needs, including children with dyslexia and I believe that the steps taken in recent years and those currently in hand represent significant progress in the development of those services.

I am aware of the centre referred to by the Deputy and I understand that it is a privately funded organisation, headquartered in the United States of America with a branch in Belfast. I am not aware of any similar organisation in the State or of any demand for the services provided by the organisation, so I do not propose to comment further on it.

Question No. 635 answered with QuestionNo. 136.

Youth Services.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

636 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the effect the cap on public sector employee numbers is having on the implementation of the Youth Work Act 2001; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33097/05]

The Youth Work Act 2001, provides a legal framework for the provision of youth work programmes and services to be organised by the Minister for Education and Science, the vocational education committees and national and regional youth work organisations. With regard to the appointment of an assessor of youth work, I recognise that this is an important development for youth work. Sanction for this post has been received from the Department of Finance and it is my Department's intention to have this post filled in the near future. With regard to the additional posts being sought by VECs to fulfil their requirements under the Act, discussions are ongoing between my Department and the Department of Finance.

School Staffing.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

637 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number in tabular form of primary teachers, permanent and temporary, on a county basis in employment on 30 September 2004 and 30 September 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33098/05]

The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available in my Department.

Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

638 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to increase the non-pay budget for VTOS programmes in view of the fact that it has not been increased since 1998; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33099/05]

The question of providing for increases in the VTOS non-pay budget will be considered in the light of the Estimates provision for 2006 for further education. It should be noted that my Department has provided a non-pay supplement towards the cost of rent each year since 2001. The total supplement given to VECs who have incurred rental costs in respect of the VTOS programme for 2005 is just under €1 million. For many VECs, this supplement represents a substantial contribution towards their non-pay costs.

Youthreach Programme.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

639 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to increase the non-pay budget for Youthreach in view of the fact that it has not been increased since 1998; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33100/05]

The question of providing for increases in the Youthreach general non-pay budget will be considered in the light of the Estimates provision for 2006 for further education. It should be noted that my Department has provided a non-pay supplement towards the cost of rent each year since 2001. The total supplement given to VECs who have incurred rental costs in respect of the Youthreach programme for 2005 is €927,000. For many VECs, this supplement represents a substantial contribution towards their non-pay costs.

School Staffing.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

640 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the procedures by which school principals and school teachers are appointed to primary schools; the respective roles of her Department and of the patron in the procedures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33101/05]

The board of management of a school is primarily responsible for the recruitment and appointment of teachers. A principal is appointed by open competition. With effect from 31 May 2005, a primary school advertising a principal teacher vacancy is required either to place a full advertisement in a national newspaper in accordance with appendix D of the handbook, Boards of Management of National Schools — Constitution of Boards and Rules of Procedure, or place the advertisement on www.publicjobs.ie and a short notice in a national newspaper indicating that the post is advertised on this website. The board of management must also notify the teaching staff of the school of the vacancy. The selection board for the appointment of a principal teacher comprises the chairperson of the board of management and at least two independent assessors to be appointed by the patron after consultation with the chairperson.

Class teachers are appointed in the first instance from the redeployment panel for the area in which the school is located. If this panel is not in operation, a permanent or long-term teaching vacancy is filled by open competition. The selection board for the post of permanent or long-term temporary teacher comprises the chairperson of the board of management, the principal teacher and an independent assessor appointed by the patron after consultation with the chairperson. The chairperson may disqualify himself or herself from the selection board if a relationship exists between him or her and any applicant for the post. The patron will then nominate a replacement in his or her place and is required to inform the primary administration section of my Department prior to the interviews.

A selection board should establish criteria for the assessment of the applications. Having completed the interviews, the selection board submits a written report to the board of management nominating the applicant whom it considers most suitable for the appointment. A list in order of merit of other candidates who are deemed suitable is retained by the selection board for use in the event of the post not being filled by that nominee. The board of management appoints the nominated teacher unless it has good and sufficient reason not to do so, in which instance the matter shall be referred to the patron, whose decision in this matter shall be accepted by the board. The chairperson should seek the approval of the patron for the appointment.

Both the successful candidate and the chairperson complete a teacher appointment form which is forwarded to the primary payments section of my Department to allow salary to be issued to the successful applicant. When this form is received in primary payments, in the case of permanent appointments, a letter of sanction of the appointment will issue to the board of management. On receipt of this sanction, the board shall then enter into the appropriate agreement with the teacher.

The Deputy should note that my Department's function is to ensure that the appointment is warranted by reference to the staffing schedule, to ensure that the person being appointed is qualified for the post and to ensure that the agreed appointment procedures have been followed. The details regarding the appointment of teachers and principals are outlined in my Department's publications, Appointment of Principals, Permanent & Temporary Teachers, and, Boards of Management of National Schools — Constitution of Boards and Rules of Procedure. These are available on my Department's website, www.education.ie.

School Management.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

641 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the process whereby chairpersons of boards of management of primary schools are appointed; the role of her Department in these appointments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33102/05]

Under section 14 of the Education Act 1998 it is the duty of a patron, for the purposes of ensuring that a recognised school is managed in a spirit of partnership, to appoint, where practicable, a board of management. The patron is responsible for initiating the steps necessary for the establishment of the board in accordance with the procedures set out in the handbook, Boards of Management of National Schools — Constitution of Boards and Rules of Procedure.

When the process for the election or nomination of persons to the board is complete, the patron formally appoints the board of management and appoints one of the members as chairperson of the board. The patron communicates the names of the chairperson and the other members of the board to the Minister and confirms that the appointment of the members conforms to the procedures and requirements set out in the handbook. Except where the Minister communicates to the contrary, within ten days of receipt of this information, the board is deemed to be recognised and assumes office forthwith.

Schools Building Projects.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

642 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if the funding allocated to a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary will be increased under the building programme in order that the full needs of the school can be provided for; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33103/05]

As part of the expansion of the devolved scheme for primary school building works, a grant of €440,000 was sanctioned to enable the management authorities of the school in question to provide additional accommodation. The initiative allows boards of management to address their accommodation and building priorities with a guaranteed amount of funding and gives boards of management control of the building project. The intention of the scheme is to provide funding to schools to enable them to undertake wanted building projects. The scheme is not intended to leave schools with significant fundraising needs but for the school to tailor the scope of capital works commissioned to the available funding. The decision on whether to continue participating in the scheme or to drop out, if the scope of build is more than the funding envelope permits, is a matter for each school authority.

An appeal for additional funding has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy. The appeal will be examined and a decision conveyed to the school management as soon as possible.

Special Educational Needs.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

643 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans for the expansion of resource teaching facilities here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33167/05]

There has been enormous progress made over recent years in increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special educational needs. At primary level there are now approximately 5,000 teachers in our schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares with fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.

At second level, there are approximately 1,580 whole-time equivalent resource teachers in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares with approximately 200 teachers who were in place in the 1997-1998 school year for such pupils.

On the capital side, under the prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects, the provision of specialist accommodation for children with special needs attracts a band 1 rating. This is the highest rating possible which is indicative of my Department's commitment to ensuring that where accommodation needs are identified, these are addressed in the shortest timeframe possible.

I will continue to prioritise the issue of special needs education and, in co-operation with the National Council for Special Education and the education partners, ensure that all children with special needs are adequately resourced to enable them to meet their full potential.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

644 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which she intends to expand or improve remedial teaching services here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33168/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

680 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to increase the number of resource, remedial or other special needs teachers at various schools throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33204/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

681 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to increase the number of special needs assistants at primary or second level throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33205/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 644, 680 and 681 together.

There has been enormous progress made over recent years in increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special educational needs. At primary level there are now approximately 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares with fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.

At second level, there are approximately 1,580 whole-time equivalent resource teachers in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares with approximately 200 teachers who were in place in the 1997-1998 school year for such pupils. Enormous progress has also been made in relation to increasing the number of special needs assistants, SNAs, in our schools who specifically cater for the care needs of children with special educational needs. At this stage there are approximately 6,650 whole-time equivalent SNAs in our primary and second level schools supporting children with special needs. The National Council for Special Education, through its network of locally based special educational needs organisers, is responsible for processing any applications for additional SNA support that may be received by it from schools.

I will continue to prioritise the issue of special needs education and, in co-operation with the National Council for Special Education and the education partners, ensure that all children with special needs are adequately resourced to enable them to meet their full potential.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

645 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position with regard to completion of an expansion at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33169/05]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that a new eight classroom building for the school in question has just been completed.

Psychological Service.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

646 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the requirement and the availability of child psychological services at primary and second level schools throughout County Kildare; if same will be increased at an early date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33170/05]

The position remains as detailed in my reply to Question No. 497 of 11 October 2005. Any increase in staffing for NEPS must be considered in the context of the Government policy on staffing numbers.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

647 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the completion of an extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33171/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

661 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the extra facilities required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33185/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 647 and 661 together.

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the extension at the school in question will be completed shortly.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

648 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if a classroom extension at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare is on target; when same is likely to be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33172/05]

The extension at the school to which the Deputy refers was completed earlier this year.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

649 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding whether an extension, ancillary accommodation and an autistic unit are on target for completion at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33173/05]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that construction is well under way on the extension at the school in question. The project is scheduled for completion in the first half of 2006.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

650 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the application for extra facilities urgently required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; when phase two is likely to progress; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33174/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. A stage two submission has not yet been received. My Department's officials wrote to the school authorities in September 2005 advising them that they should now proceed to prepare and submit a stage two outline sketch scheme submission. The school authorities have advised that they expect to have the submission with my Department by the end of November 2005. As the board of management is the client for this project, responsibility for ensuring that this timeframe is maintained lies with it. Further progression of the project can be made when the submission is received.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

651 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress regarding the provision of the extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33175/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

654 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding extra facilities required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if the project will be advanced in 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33178/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

673 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding extra facilities urgently required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [33197/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

690 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding extra facilities urgently required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [33214/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

693 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the application for extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; when same is likely to progress; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33217/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

697 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when he expects to be in a position to provide extra facilities required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if new temporary prefabs will be provided in 2005 to replace the existing ones which are dilapidated, unsafe and which are continually being patched up; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33225/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

700 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding extra facilities required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33228/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

701 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding proposals to improve accommodation at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33229/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

704 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding extra facilities required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she expects the project to advance in 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33232/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

711 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied regarding the adequacy of the accommodation at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare with a view to the elimination of the use of temporary accommodation in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33239/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

717 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33245/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

728 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to meet the accommodation requirements as set out by the school authorities (details supplied) in County Kildare; when she expects the project to proceed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33261/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

731 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when a decision will be made to progress an application for major capital funding which has been assessed by her Department regarding a college (details supplied) in County Kildare; when same is likely to be advanced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33264/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 651, 654, 673, 690, 693, 697, 700, 701, 704, 711, 717, 728 and 731 together.

The school planning section of my Department has received applications for major capital funding from the management authorities of the schools to which the Deputy refers. The applications have been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

652 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; her plans to increase same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33176/05]

The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by applying the enrolment of the school on the 30 September of the previous school year to a staffing schedule, which is issued annually to all primary schools. 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 nine mainstream class teachers based on an enrolment of 243 pupils at 30 September 2004. The school also has one permanent learning support-resource post, one permanent special class post, one temporary language support post and the services of a learning support-resource post based in the school. 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.

School Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

653 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress relating to the provision of the extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33177/05]

An extension was completed at this school in 2003 and there are no plans at present to provide further accommodation at the school.

Question No. 654 answered with QuestionNo. 651.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

655 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for provision of a new school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33179/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. The school in question was listed in my announcement of April this year as a project to progress through architectural planning up to pre-tender stage, namely, up to and including advanced architectural planning. My Department's officials wrote to the school authorities on 1 November 2005 advising them that they should now proceed to prepare and submit a stage three detailed plans and costs submission. Further progression of their project can be made when the submission is received.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

656 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the completion of an extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; the position relating to the further eight classroom extensions and ancillary accommodation to be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33180/05]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that construction of the seven classroom extension has just been completed. The school was also included in my recent announcement of schools to commence architectural planning to provide a further eight classrooms. The design team has been appointed and architectural planning has commenced.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

657 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied regarding the adequacy of the accommodation at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare, having regard to demographic trends and the need for adequate forward planning to ensure that the necessary steps are taken in time with a view to the elimination of the use of temporary accommodation in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33181/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

670 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress regarding the provision of the extra facilities required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33194/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

672 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied regarding the adequacy of the accommodation at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare, having regard to the need for adequate forward planning to ensure necessary steps are taken in time to eliminate the use of temporary accommodation in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33196/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

709 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals for the future of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if extra improvements or facilities are likely in 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33237/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

716 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied regarding the adequacy of the accommodation at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare having regard to demographic trends and the need for adequate forward planning to ensure that the necessary steps are taken in time with a view to the elimination of the use of temporary accommodation in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33244/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

719 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if extra facilities will be offered to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33247/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 657, 670, 672, 709, 716 and 719 together.

My Department has not received applications for capital funding from the management authorities of the schools to which he refers.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

658 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding extension projects at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33182/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. Officials from my Department visited the school in question in June of this year to carry out a technical inspection of the existing accommodation and to assess the needs of the pupils attending the school. The school authorities have embarked on a major redevelopment programme, which is currently at a very early design stage. They are assessing the needs into the future of the residents with special needs on the campus and outreach facilities and the many support services and industries around them.

The school's design team is currently preparing a development control plan for the site, of which this school forms part and my Department is awaiting its response before the project can proceed further. In the meantime, a member of my Department's inspectorate has drafted a schedule of overall accommodation to reflect the current educational needs of the pupils attending the school.

School Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

659 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to meet all primary and second level school place requirements in the Naas, Sallins, and Kill areas of County Kildare, in view of the increase in population and the timeframe involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33183/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

687 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding a school (details supplied) in County Kildare regarding relocation of a school to extend its capacity to 1,000 pupils; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33211/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 659 and 687 together.

I am aware that Sallins, Naas and Kill, like many areas located within close proximity to Dublin, continue to experience population growth, a position that almost inevitably places some strain on existing educational provision. However, a range of significant measures has been undertaken by my Department to address the current and future need for pupil places in these areas. At primary level, an entire new school has been provided at Killashee while temporary accommodation has been provided at Scoil Corbáin, St. Conleth's and St. Mary's national school and St. Conleth's Naofa in Naas. Temporary accommodation has also been approved at Caragh national school, St. Corban's, Gaelscoil Nás na Riogh in Naas and Scoil Naomh Brighde.

A brand new state-of-the-art 16 classroom school together with a double autistic unit was opened this September in Naas town. This project will assist in easing any difficulties for primary pupil places that may exist in Naas. Additionally, there are proposals to improve accommodation at St. David's national school and Two Mile House national school. The long-term accommodation needs of the national schools at Ballycane, Caragh and Convent of Mercy in Naas are also currently being assessed.

At post-primary level, the management authority of St. Patrick's post-primary school, County Kildare VEC, is currently progressing plans to relocate the school and extend capacity to 1,000 pupils. Additionally, an extension project is under construction at St. Mary's College, which will increase capacity at the school to 900 pupils. A similar extension is under construction at Meánscoil Iognáid Ris and further accommodation needs at the school are currently in planning. At Sallins national school, a seven classroom extension is under construction. When completed, this extension will increase capacity from nine classrooms to 16 classrooms. An extension to bring the school up to 24 classrooms is being allowed into architectural planning this year.

Regarding Kill, the property management section of the Office of Public Works, which acts on behalf of my Department concerning site acquisitions generally, is continuing in consultation with the local authority to explore all possibilities in respect of the acquisition of a site for a new 16 classroom national school in Kill. Every effort is being made to ensure that a site is acquired as soon as possible. All of these initiatives represent significant capital investment and demonstrate my commitment to meeting the needs of the areas concerned. The school planning section of my Department will keep the position under review going forward to ensure that any additional emerging needs are met as expeditiously as possible.

School Accommodation and Staffing.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

660 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which she has examined the requirement for remedial, resource and special needs teachers throughout County Kildare at both primary and second level; her plans to respond to these requirements in 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33184/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

666 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which she will be in a position to meet the requirements in terms of accommodation, staff, remedial, resource or special needs teachers and classroom assistants in each of the schools, primary and post-primary in Naas, County Kildare, in the course of the next 12 months arising from the provisions in the recently published Estimates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33190/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

667 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which she will be in a position to meet the requirements in terms of accommodation, staff, remedial, resource or special needs teachers and classrooms assistants in each of the schools, primary and post primary in Maynooth, County Kildare in the course of the next 12 months arising from the provisions in the recently published Estimates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33191/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

668 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which she will be in a position to meet the requirements in terms of accommodation, staff, remedial, resource or special needs teachers and classroom assistants in each of the schools, primary and post primary in Leixlip, County Kildare in the course of the next 12 months arising from the provisions in the recently published Estimates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33192/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

669 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which she will be in a position to meet the requirements in terms of accommodation, staff, remedial, resource or special needs teachers and classroom assistants in each of the schools, primary and post-primary in Celbridge, County Kildare in the course of the next 12 months arising from the provisions in the recently published Estimates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33193/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 660 and 666 to 669, inclusive, together.

Since 1997, the Government has dramatically increased the number of teachers in our schools. At primary level, more than 4,500 additional teachers, including nearly 2,500 resource teachers, have been employed. At post-primary level, approximately 1,900 additional teaching posts have been allocated during this period. These additional teaching posts have been used to reduce class sizes, to tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for children with special needs.

The pupil-teacher ratio, which includes all the teachers in the school, including resource and learning support teachers, has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to a projected 17.1:1 in 2004-05 at primary level and from 16:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 13.6:1 in the 2003-04 school year at post-primary level. At primary level, average class size has been reduced from 26.6 in 1996-97 to 23.9 in 2003-04. Significantly smaller classes have been introduced in disadvantaged schools involved in the Giving Children an Even Break — Breaking the Cycle programme, with approximately 47,700 pupils in 243 participating schools availing of reduced class sizes of either 15 or 20 pupils per class.

The Deputy will be aware of the new action plan for educational inclusion, Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools, DEIS. The plan, which will be introduced on a phased basis starting during the current school year aims to ensure that the educational needs of children and young people, from pre-school to completion of upper second-level education — three to 18 years — from disadvantaged communities are prioritised and effectively addressed. The new plan is the outcome of the first full review of all programmes for tackling educational disadvantage that have been put in place over the past 20 years and will involve an additional annual investment of some €40 million on full implementation. It will also involve the creation of approximately 300 additional posts across the education system generally. This action plan will result in the reduction in class sizes of 24:1 at senior level and 20:1 at junior level in 150 primary schools serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage.

Regarding providing for children with special educational needs, there are now more than 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares to under 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs. Significant progress has also been made in respect of increasing the number of special needs assistants, SNAs, in our schools who specifically cater for the care needs of children with special educational needs. At this stage, there are approximately 6,650 whole-time equivalent SNAs in our primary and second level schools supporting children with special needs.

Teacher allocations to second level schools are approved annually by the Department in accordance with established rules based on recognised pupil enrolment. The rules for allocating teaching resources provide that where a school management authority is unable to meet its curricular commitments, the Department will consider applications for additional short-term support. An independent appeals mechanism is available to school authorities that wish to appeal the adequacy of their teacher allocation.

Improvements have been made under various schemes in recent years. In 1999, an ex-quota allocation was made to all second level schools in the free education scheme in respect of remedial education and the home-school-community liaison scheme was extended to all schools designated disadvantaged. In 2000, a decision was made to reduce the general pupil-teacher ratio for appointment purposes from 19:1 to 18:1 and additional posts were also provided for leaving certificate applied, junior certificate programme and the guidance enhancement initiative resulting in approximately 1,000 additional posts in the sector.

The number of teaching posts allocated to cater for pupils with special educational needs has increased from 559 whole-time equivalents, WTEs, in 2001-02 to 1,599 WTEs in the current school year. The number of teaching posts allocated to schools to cater for non-national pupils with significant English language deficits has also increased from 113 WTEs in 2001-02 to 242 WTEs in the current school year. In addition, the Department has provided for an additional allocation of 100 posts to guidance from September 2005. I am confident that, with this significant investment, schools throughout the country, including those in the areas referred to by the Deputy, will be in a position to meet their pupils' needs.

Question No. 661 answered with QuestionNo. 647.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

662 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied regarding the adequacy of the accommodation at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare, having regard to demographic trends and the need for adequate forward planning to ensure that the necessary steps are taken in time with a view to the elimination of the use of temporary accommodation in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33186/05]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that construction work is well under way on an extension to the school in question. The extension is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2006.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

663 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an extension project at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33187/05]

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that, on 16 March 2005, my Department gave devolved authority for the project in question to proceed to tender and construction. This project went to tender in September and my Department is currently awaiting the tender report.

Schools Refurbishment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

664 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied that the school maintenance programme in respect of primary and second level schools is adequate to meet requirements, with particular reference to the need to ensure ongoing maintenance and refurbishment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33188/05]

Responsibility for the maintenance of schools is a matter for the managerial authorities. My Department issued each school with a maintenance manual in 1998 and boards were exhorted to adopt a proactive approach to maintenance. Per capita grants towards the operating costs of primary and voluntary secondary schools may be used for maintenance purposes. Per capita grants have been increased significantly in recent years. In addition, primary schools are given an annual allocation of €3,809 plus €12.70 per pupil under the grant scheme for minor works. This allocation must be spent on the physical infrastructure of the school or on items of furniture and equipment for educational use.

Works covered include improvements to school buildings and grounds — items such as the replacement of windows, roof repairs, resurfacing of school yards, repainting and redecorating qualify under this heading — improvement or replacement of mechanical and electrical services, the purchase of standard furniture and physical education equipment and the purchase of floor coverings and window blinds. If there are no outstanding works under any of the above headings that need to be carried out under this scheme, the school may expend funds on items of equipment for use solely by the school, such as computers, overhead projectors and photocopiers.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

665 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools in County Kildare where pupils or students are accommodated in prefabricated classrooms; her plans to replace such structures with permanent accommodation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33189/05]

The information the Deputy requests is not readily available. However, all applications on hand for major capital funding from schools in the Kildare area have been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. Progress on individual projects is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Questions Nos. 666 to 669, inclusive, answered with Question No. 660.
Question No. 670 answered with QuestionNo. 657.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

671 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if extra facilities will be offered to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33195/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. The school in question was listed in my announcement of April this year as a project to progress through architectural planning up to pre-tender stage, namely, up to and including advanced architectural planning. My Department's officials are in the process of examining a recently received stage two outline sketch scheme submission and, when this examination is completed, will be in contact with the school authorities with regard to the next steps involved in progressing this building project. Progression of projects to construction will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2005-2009.

Question No. 672 answered with QuestionNo. 657.
Question No. 673 answered with QuestionNo. 651.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

674 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the pupil-teacher ratio and class size at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; her plans to increase same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33198/05]

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, which is issued annually to all primary schools. 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 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 21 mainstream class teachers based on an enrolment of 588 pupils on 30 September 2004. The school also has three permanent learning support resource posts, two permanent special class posts and two temporary language support 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.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

675 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress in the past six months on the identification of a site and provision of a new primary school (details supplied) in County Kildare; the precise stage of the negotiations; if these issues will be concluded in the near future in view of the precarious and unsafe location of the existing school which is located adjacent to major road works with obvious health and safety implications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33199/05]

The property management section of the Office of Public Works, which acts on behalf of my Department on site acquisitions generally, is continuing to explore all possibilities in the acquisition of a site for a new national school in Kill in consultation with the local authority. Every effort will be made to ensure that a site is acquired as soon as possible.

Question No. 676 answered with QuestionNo. 154.
Question No. 677 answered with QuestionNo. 132.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

678 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has identified the primary or second level schools throughout the country which have the highest pupil-teacher ratio; her plans to address this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33202/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

729 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the highest and lowest pupil-teacher ratios in respect of primary schools throughout County Kildare; the average for the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33262/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 678 and 729 together.

The information regarding the pupil-teacher ratio in individual schools is not readily available in my Department. Since 1997, the Government has dramatically increased the number of teachers in our schools. At primary level more then 4,500 additional teachers, including approximately 2,500 resource teachers, have been employed. At post-primary level approximately 1,900 additional teaching posts have been allocated during this period. These additional teaching posts have been used to reduce class sizes, to tackle educational disadvantage and to provide additional resources for children with special needs.

The pupil-teacher ratio, based on all teachers in a school including resource and learning support teachers, has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to a projected 17.1:1 in 2004-05 at primary level, and from 16:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 13.6:1 in the 2003-04 school year at post-primary level. At primary level the average class size has been reduced from 26.6 in 1996-97 to 23.9 in 2003-04.

The Deputy will be aware of the new action plan for educational inclusion, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, DEIS. This action plan will result in the reduction in class sizes of 24:1 at senior level and 20:1 at junior level in 150 primary schools serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage. More than 5,000 teachers now work directly with children with special needs in our primary schools, including those requiring learning support. This compares to less than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers now works specifically with children with special needs. In line with the commitment in the programme for Government, class sizes will be reduced further. The deployment of additional posts will be decided within the context of the overall policy that priority will be given to pupils with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and junior classes.

Question No. 679 answered with QuestionNo. 154.
Questions Nos. 680 and 681 answered with Question No. 644.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

682 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which she intends to accelerate the schools building programme with a view to replacement or extension in keeping with modern best practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33206/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

730 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the 20 primary or post-primary schools throughout the country deemed to have the most urgent cases in respect of which submissions are with her Department for the provision of extra facilities or funding based on current and projected enrolments; if she intends to respond to such needs at an early date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33263/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 682 and 730 together.

The school planning section of my Department is responsible for planning the provision of suitable cost effective accommodation both in response to applications from school managerial authorities for accommodation and by analysis of changing demographics. All resultant projects, whether extensions to existing schools or new schools, are prioritised by reference to published criteria which were revised last year in consultation with the education partners. These criteria are structured to ensure that schools most in need of accommodation are assigned a band 1 priority rating. To date this has been reflected in the publication of the multi-annual capital programme and that will continue in the future.

To ensure speed in delivering projects, initiatives such as the devolved building initiative for small schools and the permanent accommodation initiative, both introduced in 2003, were expanded in 2004 and 2005. These demonstrate the Department's commitment to find innovative and flexible solutions to the difficulties faced by schools seeking to refurbish their buildings or to provide additional accommodation quickly. These schemes fund schools to respond quickly to accommodation difficulties. They involve minimal interaction with my Department and schools are fully empowered to drive the design and construction process. I fully expect that these initiatives will inform future policy in this area.

Prefabricated Classrooms.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

683 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children taught in prefabricated classrooms in primary or second level throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33207/05]

The information is not readily available in the format requested by the Deputy. However, all applications received for major capital funding from schools throughout the country have been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. Progress on individual projects will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Bullying In Schools.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

684 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of incidents of school bullying reported in the past 12 months; if all were investigated; the action taken; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33208/05]

Individual school management authorities are not required to report to my Department on incidences of bullying. Therefore, the information requested by the Deputy is not available in my Department. I can assure the Deputy that I am acutely aware of the issue of bullying in schools and my Department has in place a multi-faceted strategy to tackle the issue. Educating both primary and post-primary students on anti-bullying behaviour is a central part of the social, personal and health education, SPHE, curriculum. SPHE is now a compulsory subject at primary level and in the junior cycle of post-primary schools.

The SPHE curriculum provides for the development of personal and social skills including self-awareness, respect for others, self-esteem and communication skills, all of which are important elements in addressing the issue of bullying. In primary education, the issue of bullying is addressed in the SPHE curriculum in the "Myself and Others" strand from infant classes onwards. At second level, the issue of bullying is addressed from first year onwards in the SPHE curriculum at junior cycle, in the "Belonging and Integrating" module.

My Department's guidelines on countering bullying behaviour in schools provides a national framework within which individual school management authorities may meet their responsibilities for implementing effective school-based policies to counter bullying. These guidelines were drawn up following consultation with representatives of school management, teachers and parents, and are sufficiently flexible to allow each school authority to adapt them to suit the particular needs of the school. Each school is required to have in place a policy which includes specific measures to deal with bullying behaviour, within the framework of an overall school code of behaviour and discipline. Such a code, properly devised and implemented, can be the most influential measure in countering bullying behaviour in schools. The school development planning initiative plays an important role in supporting schools to raise awareness of the need for anti-bullying measures. In addition, my Department funds a number of support services and pilot initiatives which provide direct assistance to schools in dealing with the issue of bullying.

Special Educational Needs.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

685 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to improve facilities for children with special needs receiving mainstream education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33209/05]

Enormous progress has been made on increasing the number of special needs assistants, SNAs, in our schools who specifically cater for children with special educational needs. Approximately 6,650 whole-time equivalent SNAs work in our primary and second level schools supporting children with special needs. The National Council for Special Education, through its network of locally based special educational needs organisers, is responsible for processing any applications for additional SNA support that it may receive from schools.

On the capital side, under the prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects, the provision of specialist accommodation for children with special needs attracts a band 1 rating. This is the highest rating possible which is indicative of my Department's commitment to ensuring that where accommodation needs are identified, they are addressed in the shortest timeframe possible. I will continue to prioritise the issue of special needs education and, in co-operation with the National Council for Special Education and the education partners, ensure that all children with special needs are adequately resourced to enable them to meet their full potential.

School Curriculum.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

686 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which she proposes to encourage particular subjects at second level to ensure the availability of adequate graduates to meet requirements in the areas of medicine, engineering and the sciences in general; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33210/05]

My Department actively encourages the uptake of science and technological subjects through an ongoing programme of curriculum reform and teacher in-service and by upgrading school facilities. A new science curriculum was introduced into primary schools in 2000 as part of the revised primary school curriculum. Revised syllabi in junior certificate science and in leaving certificate physics, chemistry and biology have also been introduced since then. The introduction of these syllabi was supported by comprehensive in-service programmes for teachers. Work by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, on the revision of the two remaining leaving certificate science subjects, agricultural science and combined physics and chemistry, is at an advanced stage.

The introduction of science at primary level was supported by a resource grant of €1,000 per school plus €10 per pupil. Additional equipment grants were provided to schools at post-primary level, and laboratories continue to be refurbished as part of the ongoing schools building programme. In that context, €16 million was provided to schools in 2004 to support the implementation of the revised junior certificate science syllabus.

Following a review by the NCCA of existing technological subjects at leaving certificate level, four syllabi were submitted to my Department for consideration. These are engineering technology, formerly engineering, architectural technology, formerly construction studies, design and communication graphics, formerly technical drawing, and a new syllabus for technology which is available only to junior certificate at present. My Department is developing proposals to secure a commitment to a multi-annual funding package which will enable the revised syllabi to be implemented at the earliest possible date.

In response to a request from my Department, the NCCA is conducting a review of mathematics at post-primary level. A key component of this is a public consultation process, which has just begun. The 2002 report of the task force on the physical sciences highlighted the importance of addressing the decline in the numbers of students participating in physics and chemistry at senior cycle and choosing science options in higher education, and set out a range of strategies and actions to address these issues. The report contains 39 recommendations, with costed proposals totalling €244 million, of which €66.3 million would be a recurring annual cost. My Department is progressing these recommendations as resources permit, in collaboration and consultation with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. To date, progress has been made on 25 of the recommendations.

Question No. 687 answered with QuestionNo. 659.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

688 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding completion of an extension at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33212/05]

The extension at the school to which the Deputy refers was completed in May 2005.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

689 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position on the provision of extra facilities at schools (details supplied) in Dublin 24; when the tender process will be completed and the timeframe for completion of project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33213/05]

The refurbishment and extension project for the school referred to by the Deputy is on site. Work commenced in October 2005 and is due to be completed in October 2006.

Question No. 690 answered with QuestionNo. 651.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

691 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of the extra facilities required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; when the project will advance to construction stage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33215/05]

Tenders have been received for the extension project at the school to which the Deputy refers. The design team for the school authority, the vocational education committee, is assessing the tenders. A tender report will be submitted to my Department for approval once this assessment is completed.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

692 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if and when funding will be sanctioned for the building and budget of a school (details supplied) in County Meath following information received by her Department some time ago; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33216/05]

My Department is considering the question of the purchase of a site and temporary building for the school referred to by the Deputy. It is hoped to have the matter concluded as soon as possible.

Question No. 693 answered with QuestionNo. 651.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

694 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if permanent classroom facilities can be put in place for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare which has received temporary accommodation in 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33219/05]

An application for further additional accommodation has recently been received from the school in question and progress on this application will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

695 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to provision of an extension at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33223/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. The school in question was listed in my announcement of April this year as a project to progress through architectural planning up to pre-tender stage, that is, up to and including advanced architectural planning.

To bring this project to the required stage my Department's officials have requested and received various amendments to the stage 3 submission, detailed plans-costs, during the year. Most recently my Department's officials wrote to the school authorities on 21 September with some further queries and a response has now been received. These will be examined as soon as possible and my officials will then be in further contact with the school authorities with regard to the next steps involved in progressing this building project.

Progression of projects to construction will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2005-2009.

School Staffing.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

696 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to staffing requirements for a project (details supplied) in County Kildare for its double autistic unit; when same is likely to be up and running; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33224/05]

As the Deputy is aware, it is proposed that a double autism unit will be established at the school in question. In this regard, appropriate classroom accommodation has been provided in the school for this purpose.

My officials have been liaising with the school authorities for some time in relation to the resources to be made available to facilitate the operation of the classes. My Department has confirmed that the classes will be capable of catering for up to 12 pupils with autism at a pupil-teacher ratio of 6:1. In addition, two full-time special needs assistants, SNAs, will be allocated to each class. Additional SNAs for the classes may be considered on the basis of the individual assessed needs of the pupils enrolled.

The school authorities submitted a request to my Department for resources over and above those generally provided to schools when establishing such classes. A number of meetings have taken place between the school and officials from my Department with a view to resolving the issues raised by the school. The latest of these meetings took place on 2 June when three officials from my Department met the school's board of management.

At that meeting it was agreed the board would consider the issues discussed and send its views in writing on those issues to the Department. My Department received a response earlier this month and is liaising with the Health Service Executive on the provision of therapeutic services before reverting to the school authority.

The Department is extremely anxious that this purpose-built facility for children with autism would become operational as soon as possible.

Question No. 697 answered with QuestionNo. 651.

Schools Refurbishment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

698 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of national schools in County Kildare which she intends to improve, extend and upgrade in the near future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33226/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

710 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary and second level schools here in respect of which she and her Department have received requests for the provision of extra facilities including refurbishment, extension or replacement of existing buildings or the provision of new schools on greenfield sites; the extent to which she expects to be in a position to respond favourably to such requests in the near future, given that a number of Departments have underspent in 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33238/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 698 and 710 together.

The information the Deputy requests is not readily available, however, all applications on hand for major capital funding from schools in the Kildare area have been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. Progress on individual projects is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

699 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to provision of extra classrooms at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33227/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. A stage two submission has not yet been received. My Department's officials wrote to the school authorities in September 2005 advising them that they should now proceed to prepare and submit a stage two submission, outline sketch scheme. The school authorities have advised that they expect to have the stage two submission with my Department by the end of November 2005. As the board of management is the client for this project responsibility for ensuring that this timeframe is maintained lies with it. Further progression of its project can be made when the stage two submission is received.

Questions Nos. 700 and 701 answered with Question No. 651.

School Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

702 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if extra facilities will be offered to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare with a view to the elimination of the use of temporary accommodation in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33230/05]

As part of the expansion of the devolved scheme for primary school building works, a grant of €250,000 was sanctioned to enable the management authorities of the school in question to provide additional permanent accommodation.

The initiative allows boards of management to address their accommodation and building priorities with a guaranteed amount of funding and gives boards of management control of the building project.

It is my understanding that the board of management has made an application for planning permission recently and expects that the project will be on site by March 2006.

My Department has no request for any further facilities for this school.

Question No. 703 answered with QuestionNo. 136.
Question No. 704 answered with QuestionNo. 651.

Schools Recognition.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

705 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if a decision regarding permanent school recognition has been made in relation to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33233/05]

The school in question was granted permanent recognition effective from 1 September 2004. A letter to this effect issued to the school authority on 24 March 2005

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

706 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when the classroom extension at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare will be completed; if same is on time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33234/05]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that construction of the extension at the school in question has been completed.

Health and Safety Regulations.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

707 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to any potential breach of health and safety regulations due to overcrowding at various schools throughout County Kildare at either primary or second level; her plans to address same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33235/05]

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

It is open to school management authorities or individuals to make direct contact with the Health and Safety Authority on matters of concern to them and the Department would not necessarily be aware of such communications. Where they are issued, notifications from the Health and Safety Authority are sent to the management authorities of schools in the first instance.

In practical terms, individual school authorities are best placed to assess the detail of their own health and safety requirements. Provision is built into the school building programme to enable schools address urgent health and safety problems. Primary schools are given an annual allocation, currently amounting to €3,809 plus €12.70 per pupil, under the grant scheme for minor works which can be used entirely at the discretion of school management to address basic health and safety issues relating to school infrastructure.

The summer works scheme was introduced during 2004 which provides capital grants for small scale refurbishment works at primary and post-primary schools. The level of funding that is provided is based on the cost estimate provided by the school's design team at application stage. Responsibility for the delivery of the projects is entirely devolved out to the schools and their design teams.

The scope of works covered under this scheme is intended to address health and safety issues in all schools as well as improvement works to the existing fabric of the buildings. A total of €31 million was spent in 2004 on 292 primary projects and 158 post-primary projects under this scheme. The 2005 programme provides for 452 primary school projects and 289 post-primary school projects that will be grant-aided at a total cost of circa €70.5 million.

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

In addition to the summer works scheme, I have made a number of announcements regarding the 2005 schools building and modernisation programme. This year alone, €270 million will be allocated to primary schools and €223 million to post-primary schools for building works. This represents an increase of 14% on the 2004 allocation.

The new Schools Building and Modernisation Programme 2005-2009 will be underpinned not just by a significant increase in overall funding but by major improvements in the administration of the funding. Devolving more funding to local level through the summer works scheme and the small and rural schools initiative will allow schools to move ahead more quickly with smaller projects.

Computerisation Programme.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

708 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which broadband is available to primary and second level schools here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33236/05]

As the Deputy is aware, my Department is currently engaged in the roll-out of broadband Internet connectivity to all recognised primary and post-primary schools. This project is being undertaken in partnership with industry, following the establishment of a three year €18 million joint Government — IBEC-TIF fund. The broadband connectivity is being provided via a schools national broadband network supported by HEAnet, which will provide managed Internet access, e-mail, security controls, content filtering and other services designed to enhance the educational process. A broadband support service is being provided by the NCTE to assist schools with advice and information relating to the roll-out and ongoing use of their broadband connectivity within the schools network.

Following a public tendering process last year, contracts were awarded to six firms for the provision of access connectivity across the nearly 4,000 schools involved. These companies are Digiweb, Smart Telecom, Irish Broadband, BT Ireland, Last Mile and HS Data. The contract for the provision of a broadband router at school level, where appropriate, was awarded to Eircom. The roll-out process is now well under way and the schools national broadband network and the service desk have been established and are operational.

As of 4 November 2005, the number of schools which have had their basic connectivity service installed was 1,886 and the number of schools which have had their router installed, either separately or as part of the basic connectivity service, was 880. In this regard, the satellite provision for 165 schools contains the necessary functionality and does not require the provision of a separate router. It is expected that the roll-out will be fully completed by March 2006.

Question No. 709 answered with QuestionNo. 657.
Question No. 710 answered with QuestionNo. 698.
Question No. 711 answered with QuestionNo. 651.

School Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

712 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has satisfied herself that adequate provision is being made to ensure the availability of sufficient permanent classroom space at both primary and secondary level to accommodate the population needs here; her plans to replace temporary or prefabricated classrooms with permanent accommodation at an early date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33240/05]

It is assumed the Deputy is referring to the Kildare area. The Deputy will be aware of the significant interventions made by my Department at both primary and post-primary level in Kildare to ensure that there is adequate accommodation to meet the demand for pupil places. These interventions include a mix of greenfield site schools, major extensions and the provision of temporary accommodation. My Department will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that all future requirements are met as expeditiously as possible.

In the meantime, all applications on hand for major capital funding from schools in the Kildare area have been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. Progress on individual projects is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

713 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if extra facilities will be offered to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33241/05]

An application for additional accommodation has been received from the school in question and progress on this application will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

714 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when works will commence at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare following grant allocated to County Kildare Vocational Educational Committee by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33242/05]

My Department is moving towards a model of devolving the responsibility of building projects to school management authorities where appropriate. The devolving of funding to local level will accommodate school authorities to have responsibility and ownership of their building projects and assist in moving projects in a specific timeframe through the design process, to tender action and construction.

County Kildare VEC has been allocated a grant under the 2005 summer works scheme in respect of conversion works at the college in question and I understand that works have commenced on site.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

715 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding completion of school works at a school (details supplied) in County Dublin; if same is still on schedule to complete by mid-2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33243/05]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the building works at the school to which he refers are still on schedule to be completed by mid-2006.

Question No. 716 answered with QuestionNo. 657.
Question No. 717 answered with QuestionNo. 651.

School Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

718 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has satisfied herself regarding the adequacy of the accommodation at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare having regard to the demographic trends and the need for adequate forward planning to ensure that the necessary steps are taken in time with a view to the elimination of the use of temporary accommodation in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33246/05]

My Department has no record of the school in question. If the Deputy submits the roll number of the school to the school planning section of my Department, it will be happy to forward the information requested.

Question No. 719 answered with QuestionNo. 657.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

720 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which she intends to take action following completion of assessment of primary and second level educational needs in north Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33248/05]

As the Deputy may be aware, following widespread local consultation, my Department recently published an area development plan for the N4-M4 corridor. This plan outlines my Department's long-term educational strategy at both primary and post-primary level for this area which includes parts of north Kildare. The recommendations in the plan are being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards subject to the prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects.

Third Level Education.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

721 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if research has been carried out to identify trends in third level education with particular reference to identifying subjects chosen by students which will enhance their employment prospects later; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33249/05]

The first Destination of Award Recipients in Higher Education report which is compiled by the Higher Education Authority contains details of, inter alia, the employment of graduates by reference to their faculty in higher education institutions. The most recent report which contains details of the 2002 graduates is available on the HEA website, www.hea.ie.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

722 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress on the provision of the extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33250/05]

Responsibility for the progression to tender and construction of the project at this school has been devolved to the school authority, County Kildare VEC. I understand tenders have been received within the approved budget and it is intended that the project will commence on site in the coming weeks. The construction period will be in the region of 15 months.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

723 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; when a decision will be made to progress this matter in early date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33251/05]

The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. The school in question was listed in my announcement of April this year as a project to progress through architectural planning up to pre-tender stage, that is, up to and including advanced architectural planning. To bring this project to the required stage my Department's officials have requested and received various amendments to the stage 3 submission — detailed plans and costs — during the year. Most recently, my Department's officials wrote to the school authorities on 21 September with some further queries and a response has now been received. These will be examined as soon as possible and my officials will then be in further contact with the school authorities with regard to the next steps involved in progressing this building project. Progression of projects to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2005-2009.

Site Acquisitions.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

724 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding site acquisition to meet requirements of alternative and new school facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33252/05]

The property management section of the Office of Public Works, which acts on behalf of my Department with regard to site acquisitions generally, has identified a possible site for the new national school referred to by the Deputy. A technical assessment has been carried out on the site. Due to the commercial sensitivity of site acquisitions, it is not proposed to identify specific sites at this stage.

Science and Technology.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

725 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if adequate provision is being made in terms of meeting the educational requirements in the areas of science and technology, with particular reference to the current and likely needs of industry in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33257/05]

Science and technology has a key role to play in supporting continued economic progress and development. Ireland is fortunate in the high number of students who have studied science and technology. OECD data for 2003 reveals that Ireland ranks fifth of 31 countries in the number of science graduates per 100,000 employed in the 25 to 34 age group. The downturn experienced in Ireland in the ICT sector, which was part of a worldwide recession, led to a significant decline in applications from students wishing to pursue studies in information technology. In the context of the Government's continuing policy to address future skills needs, the HEA has sought to assist higher education institutions to develop new courses to better meet the needs of both new students and existing employees in the ICT industry who wish to upskill.

The ICT Ireland undergraduate internship programme is a major initiative launched by the HEA and ICT Ireland, the IBEC body representing the high-tech sector. This is an ICT industry-wide programme which will involve a two-day week placement for undergraduates in third and fourth year of specified ICT degree courses. This initiative is a prime opportunity for industry and the education sector to work together to provide high quality graduates.

Coupled with these initiatives, third level institutions engage with industry representatives at national and regional levels to ensure that short-term and long-term skills needs in science and technology are identified and addressed. The discover science and engineering programme supported by my Department is carrying out important work in raising the profile of science and engineering careers and pointing out the opportunities available to prospective students.

My Department continues to work closely with the expert group on future skills needs on developing national strategies to address the issue of skills needs, manpower estimating and training for enterprise. The group comprises a range of public and private sector enterprise interests, development agency and educational representatives.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

726 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the provision of extra facilities required at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33258/05]

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that on 6 May 2005 my Department gave devolved authority for the project in question to proceed to tender and construction. This project went to tender at the end of September and my Department is awaiting the tender report.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

727 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the highest and lowest pupil-teacher ratios at second level in respect of second level schools throughout County Kildare; the average for the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33260/05]

Significant improvements have been made in the pupil-teacher ratio at second level in recent years. The pupil-teacher ratio has been reduced from 16:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 13.4:1 in the 2004-05 school year. In line with Government policy, my Department will continue to provide further reductions in the pupil-teacher ratio within available resources and subject to spending priorities within the education sector. Priority will be given to pupils with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas. The other information requested by the Deputy is not readily available within my Department.

Question No. 728 answered with QuestionNo. 651.
Question No. 729 answered with QuestionNo. 678.
Question No. 730 answered with QuestionNo. 682.
Question No. 731 answered with QuestionNo. 651.

Pension Provisions.

Richard Bruton

Question:

732 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Defence the arrangements under which years of Army service can be linked for pension purposes with years with Aer Lingus in circumstances where the person involved received no gratuity from the Defence Forces in respect of the years service that is pre-1953. [32430/05]

Both Aer Lingus and the Defence Forces are members of the public sector transfer scheme which provides for the reckoning by each participating organisation of earlier pensionable service with any other member of the transfer scheme. Participation in the scheme is voluntary and Aer Lingus decided to become a member of the scheme with effect from 1 June 1973. As a result, the company is obliged to reckon all prior pensionable service in the case of its employees who left other member organisations, including the Defence Forces, on or after that date and subsequently joined Aer Lingus. As a member of the scheme, Aer Lingus could also, on a purely voluntary basis, agree to reckon prior service in the case of its employees who left other member organisations prior to 1 June 1973. In the event, Aer Lingus exercised this voluntary option only in respect of former Defence Forces personnel who had service during the emergency period from 1939 to 1946 or the period 9 September 1968 to 31 May 1973. In this regard, Aer Lingus was approved on 9 September 1968 as a member of the Superannuation and Pensions Act 1963, which was the forerunner of the present transfer scheme.

Departmental Expenditure.

John Deasy

Question:

733 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Defence the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32480/05]

The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the following table:

2002

2003

2004

Translation

4,833

6,197

15,945

Training

6,100

4,086

7,868

Advertising

430

2,695

Bilingual Signage

1,248

Other

11,830

TOTAL

10,933

10,713

39,586

Overseas Missions.

Finian McGrath

Question:

734 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Defence if he will correct an error in relation to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 581 and 582 of 25 October 2005 regarding the Niemba ambush on 8 November 1960, in which eight members of the patrol were killed and three members survived, and to set the record straight for former Army privates (details supplied). [32533/05]

I undertook during Priority Questions last Thursday, 3 November 2005, that I will have the relevant records in military archives examined to establish the factual position in this regard.

Military Medals.

Michael Lowry

Question:

735 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Defence if military medals, including service record, have been awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32997/05]

An Emergency Service Medal was forwarded to the individual's home address on 1 November 2005. A statement of his service in the Defence Forces will be forwarded to the individual later this week.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

736 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Defence the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33026/05]

There are no current appointees to bodies under the aegis of my Department with a disability.

Offshore Islands.

Enda Kenny

Question:

737 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a proposal to have the Great Blasket Island declared a national monument or park; the development issues that this involves: and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32395/05]

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

764 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the State’s proposals for the future of the Great Blasket Island. [32913/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 737 and 764 together.

To properly secure and promote the cultural, archaeological, built and natural heritage of An Blascaod Mór, the Government approved in July 2005 the early purchase of the majority of land interests on the island for €1.7 million to be provided from within the existing heritage capital allocation of my Department. The Office of Public Works is engaged in ongoing negotiations for this purpose and it is expected these will be completed in 2006. The future promotion and management of the island will also be a matter for the OPW. The development of the piers on the island and at Dún Chaoin is a matter for the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. There are no plans to declare An Blascaod Mór a national monument or park.

Local Authority Housing.

David Stanton

Question:

738 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, regarding social welfare recipients who are local authority tenants, his attention has been drawn to the fact that when social welfare rates of payment are increased it is possible that a part of these increases can be lost through an increase in rental payments to the local authority if the recipient’s income goes above the income threshold set by the local authority; if he intends to take steps or issue any directives to the local authorities regarding this practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32742/05]

Local authorities are responsible, as part of their housing management functions, for the determination of rents of their dwellings, having regard to certain broad principles laid down by my Department in circular letters HRT 3/2002 and HMandAH 1/2004. The circulars ask local authorities to ensure that rent increases do not absorb an excessive amount of increases made for the benefit of persons who depend on social welfare payments and, in particular, on old age pension payments. As a general guideline, local authorities have been advised that no more than 15% of any increase in such pension income should be absorbed by an increase in rent.

Local authorities were also advised to include provisions in their rent schemes for the acceptance of a lower rent than that required under the terms of the scheme in exceptional cases where payment of the normal rent would give rise to hardship.

Landslides and Flooding.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

739 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cause of the landslide and flooding in Carlingford, County Louth, on the night of 23 to 24 October 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32386/05]

It is not possible for my Department to account for particular incidents of landslide or flooding. Information is not available to the Department regarding the incident referred to in the question.

Environmental Policy.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

740 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the media reports that an EU regulation is to be introduced to make it obligatory for people cutting turf for domestic use to apply for planning permission or have an environmental impact assessment carried out before they can commence work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32389/05]

I assume that the question refers to the Planning and Development Regulations 2005 which I made on 14 July 2005 following debate in both Houses. The regulations generally exempt peat extraction below a threshold of 10 hectares from the requirement for planning permission. However, there are exceptions where the peat extraction would have significant effects on the environment. In those limited cases, planning permission must be applied for, accompanied by an environmental impact statement. Where the peat extraction takes place within peatland areas that have been afforded protection either as special areas of conservation, SACs, or natural heritage areas, NHAs, those are subject to a separate control system which is unaffected by the change to the regulations.

Special Areas of Conservation.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

741 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason Cratlagh Wood, County Donegal, has not been classified as a special area of conservation; and if he will consider classifying it as such. [32390/05]

Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora, the habitats directive, provides the basis for the selection and designation of ecological sites as special areas of conservation. Sites are selected on the basis of scientific criteria set out in annexe III to the directive. I understand that Cratlagh Wood, Milford, County Donegal, does not meet the scientific criteria for designation as a special area of conservation.

Irish Language.

John Deasy

Question:

742 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the expenditure by his Department on providing services through the Irish language in each of the years 2002, 2003 and 2004; and the breakdown of the expenditure under training, translation, advertising, bilingual signage and other. [32481/05]

Expenditure on translation and training through Irish in the years 2002, 2003 and 2004 is as follows.

Year

Translation

Training

2002

17,047

755

2003

53,258.64

3,730

2004

23,048.19

4,802

A separate breakdown is not available in my Department for advertising through Irish or for costs incurred in the provision of bilingual signage.

Decentralisation Programme.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

743 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress which has been made regarding the decentralisation of part of his Department to Waterford city; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32483/05]

My Department is co-operating with the Department of Finance, the decentralisation implementation group and the Office of Public Works to ensure the Government's decentralisation programme is implemented efficiently and effectively. A decentralisation implementation team has been established to oversee the arrangements for the transfer of the Department's Dublin-based staff to four locations in the south east.

Implementation plans, setting out the issues to be addressed in implementing the decentralisation programme for this Department, have been submitted to the decentralisation implementation group. Those plans are also published on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

The most recent information from the central applications facility, CAF, indicates that there are a total of 59 staff available, including staff recruited for Waterford, in respect of the 225 posts to be decentralised to Waterford. My Department will be contacting those staff shortly with a view to agreeing arrangements for their transfer to the Department as soon as possible. My Department will also be contacting the CAF in due course for details of applicants who have applied for Waterford as a second or subsequent preference. The indicative timescale provided for the completion of office accommodation in Waterford is mid-2009, and the Office of Public Works is evaluating site options at present.

Local Authority Grants.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

744 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of the €18 million unspent on the disabled person’s grant scheme nationally in 2004, he has put in place a monitoring system throughout the local authorities which will enable him to reallocate funds from authorities that will not use up their allocation in 2005 to authorities that at present have spent their budgets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32495/05]

I refer to the reply to Question No. 1421 of 28 September 2005. The position is unchanged.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

745 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason he does not know the number of local authorities here who have in place means testing for the disabled person’s grant scheme in view of the fact that his Department is carrying out a review of the scheme. [32502/05]

The administration of the disabled person's grant scheme is delegated to local authorities within the framework laid down in statutory regulations. As far as is practicable, that is designed to give an appropriate degree of flexibility at local level.

The review of the disabled person's grant scheme has involved an examination of the principal features of the scheme, including the question of means testing. In that regard, the extent to which means testing is already employed by some local authorities is being considered. The approaches of different local authorities have varied over time. In this context, authorities review their schemes on an ongoing basis to streamline their operation and have been introducing a variety of mechanisms to ensure that the available resources are targeted to those in most need, including prioritisation on grounds of medical and financial need or cost control.

While my Department is aware that several local authorities have regard to the financial capacity of applicants, it does not have detailed definitive information on a countrywide basis of the arrangements involved. On completion of the review it will be possible to determine the changes, if any, required to the regulations governing the scheme to ensure that the funding available is directed at those persons in greatest need of such assistance.

Local Authority Housing.

Michael Ring

Question:

746 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the standard a local authority dwelling should be in before it is reallocated, as the reply to a previous question is not sufficient and does not answer the query raised, and the website address given only provides guidelines for local authorities rather than actual regulations or directives; and if he will make a statement on the matter [32512/05]

Under the Housing Acts, the management and control of local authority dwellings is the responsibility of the housing authority concerned. In letting a dwelling, a housing authority must ensure that the dwelling complies with the minimum physical standards set out in the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 1993.

Implementation of the regulations and the standards prescribed by them is a matter for the housing authority concerned. In that regard, good practice guidelines have been issued by the housing unit, as referred to in the reply to Question No. 610 of 25 October 2005.

Departmental Programmes.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

747 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he intends to continue the pilot community warden service in Naas, County Kildare, in 2006. [32520/05]

I refer to the reply to Question No. 1425 of 28 September 2005.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

748 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of sewerage schemes which have commenced construction in the Waterford constituency in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32546/05]

Details of approved schemes for Waterford city and county are set out in my Department's water services investment programme 2004-2006 which is available in the Oireachtas Library. While my Department is responsible for the approval and funding of the infrastructural works encompassed by the programme, the procurement of individual contracts and the arrangements with the successful tenderers for the commencement of works are matters for the relevant local authority. The following table sets out the tender recommendations submitted by the Waterford local authorities that have been approved by my Department to date this year.

Local authority

Scheme

Tender amount

€000

Waterford City Council

Waterford main drainage phase 2:

Contract 1 — Waterpark-Maypark-Gurteens civil works

7,127

Contract 1A — Waterpark-Ferrybank pumping stations

844

Contract 2 — Maypark catchment civil works

4,472

Contract 3 — Rocklands-Chrisendom-Slieverue pumping stations, civil works

567

Contract 3A — Rocklands-Beacon Quay-Slieverue pumping stations, mechanical and electrical works

287

Contract 5 — Belview waste water treatment plant

28,701

Waterford County Council

Tramore sewerage scheme, waste water treatment plant

6,215

The most up-to-date information regarding the construction status of those contracts may appropriately be sought from the local authority concerned. The table does not include schemes for which full responsibility has been devolved to the local authorities concerned.

Departmental Bodies.

Richard Bruton

Question:

749 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the membership of his Department’s audit committee; the chairperson and the number of occasions on which it has met in the past 12 months and the agenda of the meetings. [32567/05]

This Department's audit committee comprises the following five members: Mr. Jerry Killeen, former financial controller and company secretary, Dublin Port Company; Mr. Eric Embleton, former assistant secretary, CMOD, Department of Finance; Mr. Donal O'Donoghue, former county manager, Galway County Council; Mr. Noel O'Connell, director, Local Government Audit Service; and Mr. Michael Canny, assistant secretary, Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Mr. Jerry Killeen chairs the committee.

The committee has met on four occasions in the past 12 months. The agenda of the meetings over that period covered the following issues: strategic audit planning; the internal audit business plan; progress on the annual audit plan; the 2004 annual report of the audit committee; risk management in the Department; procurement procedures; liaison with the Comptroller and Auditor General's Office; and the staffing position of the internal audit unit.

Departmental Programmes.

Richard Bruton

Question:

750 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which the projects identified in the economic and social infrastructure element of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 have been completed; the cost of the elements that have been completed; the way in which this compared with the original assessment of their cost; the elements and their associated cost which have been completed by way of PPP. [32572/05]

Richard Bruton

Question:

751 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which projects identified in the economic and social infrastructure element of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 have yet to be completed; the expenditure to date on those elements; the expected cost of completing them; the way in which the projected cost at completion compares with the original projection; the elements and their associated cost which have been completed by way of PPP; and the projected expenditures and years in which they will be incurred to complete the remaining projects. [32575/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 750 and 751 together.

My Department implements two priorities of the economic and social infrastructure operational programme, ESIOP, of the National Development Plan 2000-2006, the housing priority and the environmental infrastructure priority. The housing priority of the economic and social infrastructure operational programme sets out a seven-year programme of investment in housing. The priority is managed on a programme rather than a project basis and investment for the 2000 to 2004 period, at €6.86 billion, was almost 8% ahead of NDP estimates at the end of 2004. At the end of June 2005, investment totalled €7.34 billion.

Detailed financial progress under the five measures that comprise the housing priority is set out in the following table.

Measure

Allocation 2000-2006

Expenditure to end June 2005

€ million

€ million

Local Authority Housing

4,152

3,437

Voluntary Housing

1,860

954

Access to Affordable Housing

1,613

1,293

Improvements to Existing Housing

1,124

921

Groups with Special Needs

359

738

Overall

9,108

7,343

Investment in water services is covered by the environmental infrastructure priority. That priority is divided into five measures, four of which are implemented by this Department. The four water services infrastructure measures in this priority are implemented through the water services investment programme, WSIP. This is a three-year rolling programme intended to facilitate annual adjustment of priorities in response to emerging needs in a structured fashion. The current WSIP was rolled out in May 2004, covering the years 2004 to 2006, and contains 869 individual water and sewerage schemes at various stages of construction and planning.

The initial programme complement contained individual targets relating to the number of schemes completed for each of the measures. A revised programme complement containing progress indicators reflecting (a) population equivalent, pe, served and (b) environmental targets attained will form the backdrop to future NDP reporting. At the end of June 2005, completed projects had generated an additional capacity of 3 million pe and an increase in water treatment capacity of 578,000 pe.

The original financial allocations of the ESIOP environmental infrastructure priority in the national development plan published in 2000 totalled €3.8 billion, broken down as follows: waste water measure —€1.657 billion; water supply measure —€579 million; management and rehabilitation measure —€862 million; support for economic activity measure —€ 702 million.

The revised programme complement envisages an outturn of €3.1 billion rather than the original €3.8 billion Exchequer expenditure and is generally in line with original projections. However, from an overall perspective, private and non-Exchequer expenditure has not materialised as envisaged.

As regards the cost of those elements completed to the end of June 2005, the following table sets out the position.

Measure

Initial Total Allocation

Revised Total Allocation

Spend to end June 2005

(€ million)

(€ million)

(€ million)

1. Waste water

1,657

1,880

1,756

2. Water Supply

579

500

308

3. Management and Rehabilitation of Infrastructure

862

320

169

4. Infrastructural Support for Expanded Economic Activity

702

400

303

Overall

3,800

3,100

2,536

Reflecting the emphasis placed on the completion of major waste water projects during the early NDP period, spending on measure 1, waste water, is well ahead of forecast with the other water infrastructure measures behind forecast to varying degrees.

A factor behind the underspend on measure 2 is that private capital investment for suitable projects has not been forthcoming regarding the €127 million originally earmarked for financing from this source. In addition, the required level of local authority financial input into measure 3 has not materialised. In practice, the implementation of the polluter pays water pricing framework has to date yielded less capital investment than was estimated.

The following is a summary of progress under the individual measures from January 2000 to June 2005. On measure 1, waste water schemes, cumulative expenditure has totalled €1.756 billion — 121% of the original cumulative end-2005 forecast and 99% of the revised forecast. Some 96 schemes have been completed. The high rate of expenditure on this measure is reflected in the progress outlined above regarding compliance with the end-2005 requirements of the EU urban waste water treatment directive and the additional capacity provided.

On measure 2, water supply schemes, cumulative expenditure has totalled €308 million, 78% of the revised end-2005 forecast. Water supply schemes funded under this measure ensure a continuing high rate of compliance with national and EU requirements regarding drinking water quality and the availability of capacity to service economic and demographic expansion. A total of 44 schemes have been completed.

On measure 3, the rehabilitation and management of infrastructure, cumulative expenditure has totalled €169 million, 72% of the revised end-2005 forecast. A total of 19 schemes have been completed. The objective of this measure is to address the need for renewal and rehabilitation of local authority water distribution and waste water collection systems to improve overall efficiency.

On measure 4, economic activity schemes, cumulative expenditure has totalled €304 million — 89% of the revised forecast for end 2005. A total of 162 schemes, 139 serviced land initiative and 23 rural towns and villages initiative, have been completed. More than 75,000 sites have been provided under the serviced land initiative, with a further 94,000 sites at construction stage. Some 250,000 sites in all are expected to be provided under this initiative.

More than 100 public private partnership, PPP, projects are at various stages in the water or waste water and housing sectors, primarily in the water or waste water sector. The water or waste water sector projects are design, build and operate projects and the expenditure on them is included in the relevant tables above. There are several design, build and finance PPPs for housing, such as Fatima Mansions and O'Devaney Gardens in Dublin which form part of the ESIOP and do not involve Exchequer expenditure.

I am satisfied that my Department is making good progress overall in meeting the budgetary and output targets associated with the implementation of measures contained in the economic and social infrastructure operational programme of the national development plan. Where specific measures are running below target, in particular, smaller water schemes operated by local authorities, steps are being taken by my Department to secure greater progress.

Local Authority Housing.

Denis Naughten

Question:

752 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 803 of 18 October 2005, when the current scheme commenced; the position on charging for such sites under previous schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32588/05]

Since 1986 the determination of the sale price of local authority dwellings has been based on the market value of the house. From 1995, as a development of the scheme, specific provision was made for the first time for taking into account the market value of a site provided to the housing authority for a nominal sum. Between July 1973 and 1986 the purchase price of dwellings was based on the original all-in cost, updated to current money values by use of a CSO value-of-money table.

Environmental Policy.

Denis Naughten

Question:

753 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to a meeting in June 2005 with the Irish Farmers’ Association, when his Department will issue compensation to farmers with lands in the Shannon Callows; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32591/05]

The meeting in June 2005 was one of numerous meetings that have taken place between officials from my Department and the Department of Agriculture and Food with farming representatives. The purpose of those meetings was to agree management prescriptions for habitats of birds in the Shannon Callows special protection area and to assess losses and costs to landowners arising from the implementation of those prescriptions. Agreement would allow farmers, other than those who opt for the REP scheme, to be compensated by my Department for actual costs and losses arising from the implementation of the necessary management prescriptions. While it has not yet proved possible to resolve those matters fully, my Department is maintaining contact with the Department of Agriculture and Food and farming representatives to see how agreement might be finalised.

Decentralisation Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

754 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the assessment of the financial implications of decentralisation which have been carried out and, in particular, the financial implications of the cost of training and additional staff during the on-the-job training in period; the cost of new recruitment to meet gaps in suitable applicants for the decentralised location; the cost of additional promotions to fill the positions required; if the cost of delays in redeploying staff who opt not to move with their post and cost of retraining and redeployment have been identified in respect of the proposed moves (details supplied). [32600/05]

The overall costs of the decentralisation programme to my Department cannot be quantified at this stage but will be agreed with the Department of Finance in the context of the Estimates process over the lifetime of the programme. The more significant costs arising, which are being borne by the Office of Public Works, involve the acquisition and fit-out of office accommodation.

The Department will be co-operating with the Department of Finance, the decentralisation implementation group and the Office of Public Works to ensure the Government's decentralisation programme is implemented efficiently and effectively. My Department has submitted implementation plans to the decentralisation implementation group regarding the decentralisation of the Department's Dublin operations to four locations in the south east, viz. Wexford, Waterford, New Ross and Kilkenny. Those plans are also published on my Department's website at www.environ.ie. The plans, inter alia, identify measures which are proposed to ensure that the programme is implemented in the most cost-effective manner.

Richard Bruton

Question:

755 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the audit committee of his Department or its agencies have reviewed the risk management assessment of the proposed decentralisation proposals (details supplied); if it has approved the assessment or made any recommendations for revising the risk assessment or changing the proposed risk mitigation strategies. [32608/05]

The audit committee in my Department has a role regarding reviewing the development and implementation of a risk management strategy in the Department. The committee receives a briefing on progress in that regard at its quarterly meetings. The committee has been supplied with copies of the Department's decentralisation implementation plans. The committee noted that the plans, inter alia, identify the risks attendant on the decentralisation process and measures which are proposed to address those.

The main risks identified at this stage relate to loss of knowledge arising from the anticipated significant high turnover of staff in all Dublin-based areas of the Department. Several mitigation strategies are in place or being developed to facilitate skills and knowledge transfer from existing staff to their replacements. Those strategies include the recruitment of new staff as early as possible, the phased transfer of existing staff out of the Department, the implementation of a comprehensive training and development plan and making available updated work guidelines and process maps. The committee will continue to review the risk management assessment of the decentralisation programme.

Special Areas of Conservation.

Michael Lowry

Question:

756 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when an application for the purchasing of bog will be assessed for a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32617/05]

The application from the persons named is being assessed by my Department and an offer to purchase the lands in question should issue shortly.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Paul McGrath

Question:

757 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on reed beds as a suitable method of effluent treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32661/05]

A reed bed is a common term for various natural biological waste water treatment systems employing constructed wetlands. Constructed wetlands are, in appropriate circumstances, a suitable form of waste water treatment for small communities if properly designed, constructed, operated and maintained. In 1999, the Environmental Protection Agency published a manual on treatment systems for small communities, business, leisure centres and hotels, which includes a section on constructed wetlands and sets out the advantages and disadvantages of such treatment systems as well as appropriate design, construction and maintenance criteria.

The use of integrated constructed wetlands for waste water treatment and sustainable environmental management is a more recent initiative by my Department which includes an Ireland-Wales INTERREG project. That concept strives to replicate the wider range of ecological conditions typically found in natural wetlands. The larger land areas used, compared with most other reed beds or constructed wetland designs, make these integrated constructed wetlands more robust and sustainable and capable of dealing with larger waste water volumes. An interdisciplinary team is preparing a national guidance document to encourage wider use of the concept by providing the necessary guidance to regulators, designers and contractors.

Fire Stations.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

758 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when capital funding will be available for the new fire station committed for Clones, County Monaghan; his views on the fact that a site is available with planning permission granted and ready for building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32672/05]

Provision has been made under the fire services capital programme for Monaghan County Council's proposal for a new fire station at Clones to be advanced to construction by the end of 2006. The Department is examining the design drawings and cost plan for the project and will issue a decision on them shortly.

Library Projects.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

759 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when capital funding will be provided for Monaghan County Council to build the county library at Clones, County Monaghan; his views on the fact that a site is available with planning permission granted and ready for construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32673/05]

On 7 October 2003, my Department issued approval in principle to Monaghan County Council for the construction of a new library headquarters and branch library at Clones. Monaghan County Council subsequently submitted a detailed design and cost plan for the project. On 10 October 2005, my Department wrote to Monaghan County Council seeking clarification of aspects of the proposal. Further consideration will be given to the proposal when that information is received.

Local Authority Housing.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

760 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will respond to the proposal, made several months ago, from Dublin City Council for the redevelopment of Tom Kelly Road flats, Dublin 2. [32693/05]

Register of Electors.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

761 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the advice he has to offer local authorities to ensure that residents of all apartments are included in the register of electors, in view of the fact that many local authorities are reporting difficulty in accessing such apartments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32751/05]

The compilation and publication of the register of electors is a matter for each local registration authority in accordance with electoral law and includes the carrying out of house-to-house inquiries, delivery of registration forms and running local awareness campaigns. It is the duty of registration authorities to ensure as far as possible the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the register; in carrying out this work, registration authorities depend to a significant degree on the co-operation and engagement of the general public. In apartment complexes with restricted access, registration authorities should make appropriate arrangements to ensure that residents are provided with a registration form, whether by post or other means.

Departmental Planning.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

762 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the preparations which have been made by the Department for the predicted extreme weather conditions this winter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32842/05]

The Department's primary concern is to ensure that, when severe weather conditions arise, the local authorities are geared to respond promptly and effectively to offset the worst effects of these conditions. The Department reminds local authorities each year of the need to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place to deal with severe weather conditions. This includes the need to revise and update, as necessary, their contingency plans for dealing with the consequences of severe weather conditions. Local authorities are also reminded to ensure that arrangements are in place to take necessary action arising from early warnings from Met Éireann, the necessity to be proactive as regards public relations and information, and availability of equipment and stocks.

When a severe weather alert is forecast, local authorities mobilise their emergency crews, all of which should be fully briefed and competent in responding to emergencies in their own areas of responsibility. Each local authority also has a major emergency plan which can be activated in the case of any emergency which is outside the scope of normal services to deal with. Local authority emergency telephone numbers are published in local newspapers and broadcast on local radio when appropriate.

The maintenance of non-national roads, including measures to deal with the effects of severe weather conditions, is a matter for each individual local authority. To assist local authorities in this regard, the Department issued a detailed guidance memorandum on maintenance of essential services in severe weather conditions to local authorities in November 2000. The memorandum contains guidance for local authorities on a wide range of issues, including advice regarding snow clearance vehicles. The Department also reminds local authorities each year to ensure that winter road maintenance equipment is available for immediate use in all climate conditions and that snow clearance and salt spreading equipment is maintained in good working order. The most recent reminder to local authorities in this regard issued on 27 October this year.

Waste Management.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

763 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views regarding the environmentally impact and the amount of waste being created as a result of the mass handing out of two new free morning papers (details supplied) in Dublin; the actions he will take in relation to same. [32845/05]

Primary responsibility for developing and implementing responses to litter problems rests with local authorities. I am satisfied that local authorities have adequate powers under the Litter Pollution Acts 1997 to 2003 to tackle any potential littering problem that the distribution of free newspapers may cause.

On the broader issue of recycling of newsprint, the Department is in discussion with a joint industry taskforce representing the newspaper publishing and retailing sectors with a view to developing a producer responsibility initiative for the recovery and recycling of newspapers and magazines.

Question No. 764 answered with QuestionNo. 737.

Housing Statistics.

Richard Bruton

Question:

765 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of first-time buyers purchasing homes in the period 1998 and to date; and the number of properties purchased in Dublin and the rest of the country. [32930/05]

The Department does not have definitive figures on numbers of first-time buyers in the housing market. However, using data on the numbers of loans drawn down for new and second-hand houses, together with data on buyer status based on a voluntary statistical survey of mortgagees, there were over 240,000 first-time buyers during the period from 1998 to the first half of 2005.

The Department does not have figures on the total numbers of second-hand properties purchased. Data on the number of new houses completed indicate that almost 450,000 houses have been supplied in this period, 83,000 of which were in the Dublin area. As the data is based on profiling those taking out mortgages for house purchase purpose, it will not cover all purchases of new or secondhand houses. For instance, in 2004, it is estimated that approximately 35% of new houses were not mortgage financed.

Local Authority Funding.

Jack Wall

Question:

766 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to a reply of 26 October 2005, if local authorities (details supplied) made an application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32963/05]

I assume the question refers to proposals from local authorities regarding funding for skateboard facilities. The 34 proposals submitted to the Department by city and county councils included applications from Laois County Council and Kildare County Council. Town councils were not invited to submit applications and accordingly no proposal was received from Athy Town Council.

All applications received were evaluated on a competitive basis by the Department with assistance from the National Children's Office and details of the 21 successful proposals were announced on 2 November. These included a proposal submitted by Laois County Council. The proposal submitted by Kildare County Council was not selected for grant assistance on this occasion.

Planning Issues.

Seán Haughey

Question:

767 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the practice of local authorities making it a condition of planning permissions that management companies be formed to administer new private housing estates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32975/05]

Joe Higgins

Question:

777 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on his inquiries with local authorities regarding the operation of estate management companies where new home-buyers are being billed for services normally provided by local authorities. [33164/05]

Joe Higgins

Question:

778 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the policy of his Department concerning some local authorities requiring that estate management companies in new housing estates are required to fund services normally provided by local authorities from homeowners’ fees. [33165/05]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 767, 777 and 778 together.

I refer to the reply to Question No. 97 of 25 October 2005. Planning authorities have been asked by my Department for a report on their policies on the attachment of conditions relating to management companies to planning permissions for various types of residential developments. On receipt of their responses, I intend to consider the question of further guidance in this matter.

EU Directives.

Seán Haughey

Question:

768 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the EU Energy Directive for domestic and business premises which is due to come into effect in January 2006; if pamphlets will be issued in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32993/05]

The draft action plan published on 27 April 2005 by Sustainable Energy Ireland on behalf of an interdepartmental working group comprising senior officials from the Departments of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and SEI provides for the phased implementation of the directive over the period 2006-09. The definitive action plan is being drawn up, in the light of all submissions received during the public consultation process, and will be submitted to the EU Commission by end 2005.

The draft action plan provides for the introduction of mandatory building energy rating, BER, certification of new dwellings with effect from 1 January 2007, for new non-residential buildings from 1 January 2008 and for all existing buildings, when sold or let from 1 January 2009. Section 5 of the draft plan sets out proposals for a comprehensive promotional and information campaign to inform the general public-industry. This will be developed by Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, and will be launched in good time and continued through the implementation phases.

Dog Breeding Industry.

Billy Timmins

Question:

769 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department requested submissions regarding breeding of dogs; if so, when is the closing date for receipt of such submissions; the reason the process is being repeated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32994/05]

A working group to review the management of dog breeding establishments nationally was appointed in September 2004. The group was established in response to a number of cases of mistreatment of dogs on so called "puppy farms". The terms of reference of the group were to examine the current position regarding management of kennels and to make recommendations for such improvements, including better regulation, as it considers necessary in this area.

In its report which was submitted to me recently, the working group concluded that there is a need to introduce statutorily enforceable standards for the dog breeding industry in Ireland and proposed the introduction of a registration system for dog breeding establishments. However, three of the organisations represented on the group exercised the option of submitting minority reports rather than accept the majority report.

On 20 October 2005, I announced a public consultation process on foot of the working group's report indicating that, in view of the many divergent views on the issue, I wanted to canvass public opinion more widely before taking final decisions on the matter. An advertisement inviting submissions was placed in the national newspapers on Monday 24 October 2005. The closing date for receipt of submissions is Friday 16 December 2005.

Road Network.

Michael Lowry

Question:

770 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an application (details supplied) has been received by his Department; the status of the application; when same will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32995/05]

The improvement and maintenance of non-national roads in north Tipperary county is a matter for North Tipperary County Council to be funded from its own resources supplemented by grants provided by the Department.

In June this year, local authorities were invited to submit proposals to the Department for inclusion in the 2006-08 restoration improvement programme. It is a matter for the council to determine its priorities for the county as a whole, including the Thurles electoral area, under this programme. A proposal has been received from North Tipperary County Council for restoration improvement works in the county under this programme. All proposals received from local authorities will be fully considered when road grants for 2006 are being determined early in the new year.

Local Authority Housing.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

771 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of local authority houses built in 2004; the further number of houses provided as a result of Part V; the number built by voluntary groups; his views on whether an improvement is expected in 2005; if so, the areas of same; his further views on whether the number of social houses being provided is insufficient to deal with the ongoing crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33005/05]

Local authorities completed-acquired 4,510 units in 2004, including units acquired to let by local authorities under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2004. Detailed information on the number of local authority houses completed-acquired in 2004 and the number of social and affordable units provided under Part V are available in the annual housing statistics bulletins published by the Department, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library and on the Department's website at w ww.environ.ie.

It is anticipated that local authorities will complete-acquire in the region of 5,500 units in 2005, including completions under Part V and various regeneration programmes. It is also expected that the voluntary sector will complete some 1,600 units in 2005. Detailed information on an individual local authority basis will be available in due course in the 2005 annual housing statistics bulletin.

The Government has put in place a number of new arrangements to facilitate the delivery of strong programmes of social and affordable housing. In consultation with the Department, local authorities have developed five year action plans for their social and affordable housing programmes covering the period to 2008. The preparation of these plans has improved the identification of priority needs and will help to ensure a more coherent and co-ordinated response across all housing services. They also provided an overview of delivery by a range of providers — local authorities, voluntary and co-operative housing bodies and the private sector — through Part V and public-private partnership arrangements.

Some €2 billion is being made available for housing programmes in 2005 to further increase the output of social and affordable housing. Overall, in 2005, it is anticipated that total social housing provision including new local authority housing, vacancies arising in existing houses and output under other social housing measures will meet the needs of in excess of 13,000 households.

Waste Management.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

772 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make a statement on the recent report from the Combat Poverty Agency calling for a national policy on waste management waiver systems for local authorities. [33009/05]

In accordance with section 52 of the Protection of the Environment Act 2003, the determination of waste management charges and waivers is a matter for the relevant local authority, where it acts as the service provider. Similarly, where a private operator provides the collection service, it is a matter for that operator to determine charges. Traditionally waste management services have been provided at a local level with individual arrangements being locally determined and tailored to local circumstances. The present legal framework reflects this.

I welcome the acknowledgement by the Combat Poverty Agency report that local authorities and central government are working together to comply with the polluter pays principle, as this is the basis of national and EU policy in the area of waste management. In accordance with this policy, all of society must be encouraged to reduce, reuse and recycle waste to the maximum extent possible.

To encourage individuals to minimise their waste, all local authorities and private waste operators were asked to begin a switch to use-based charging arrangements from the start of this year. In support of this more proactive approach to the promotion of recycling, the Department continues to make a significant level of funding available to local authorities to increase the range of waste recycling infrastructure available to householders.

In addition, local authorities have been asked to engage with commercial waste collectors with a view to agreeing on a scheduling of payments rather than a periodic lump sum payment.

Appointments to State Boards.

James Breen

Question:

773 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of persons with disabilities he has appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33027/05]

Appointments to the boards of State bodies under my aegis are made on the basis of reference to the qualifications of the individuals concerned. There is no information available as to whether appointees may suffer from a disability.

Waste Management.

Denis Naughten

Question:

774 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 524 of 11 October 2005 the progress to date following the discussions with IFFPG; if he will provide the €2.5 million required to complete the 2005 collection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33032/05]

Under the Waste Management (Farm Plastics) Regulations 2001, producers — manufacturers and importers — of farm plastics such as silage bale wrap and sheeting are required to take steps to recover farm plastics waste which they have placed on the market or alternatively to contribute to, and participate in, compliance schemes to recover the waste in question. The Irish Farm Film Producers Group, IFFPG, is currently the sole approved body in Ireland for the purposes of implementing a compliance scheme for the recovery of farm plastics waste.

Under the IFFPG scheme, producers apply a levy on the sale of farm plastics that in turn is transferred to the IFFPG for use in funding the collection and recovery of farm plastics waste. The IFFPG is a not-for-profit organisation and it is a matter for the company, under the terms of this producer responsibility initiative and in accordance with the polluter pays principle, to set a rate of levy which will cover its operational costs.

While responsibility for the collection and recovery of farm plastics rests with the compliance scheme, the Department monitors the scheme on an ongoing basis. Discussions are continuing involving the Department and IFFPG and other stakeholders to explore options for improvement to the scheme and resolution of outstanding issues.

Archaeological Sites.

Denis Naughten

Question:

775 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 166 and 167 of 29 September 2005 the steps which are being taken by his Department to provide public access to sites at Rathcroghan, County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33033/05]

My Department has recently had discussions with Roscommon County Council with a view to undertaking a conservation plan for archaeological sites at Rathcroghan, which would include matters such as public access. The intention is to conclude consultation on the plan with relevant stakeholders and to complete the plan by the middle of next year.

Departmental Funding.

Beverley Flynn

Question:

776 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding available to a community group that wishes to develop a park and heritage centre on a site leased to it by the local authority. [33163/05]

It is open to local authorities to fund community-led projects from within their own resources.

Funding is available from my Department to community groups in the Border region under the Programme for Peace and Reconciliation 2000-06, PEACE II, in respect of a range of infrastructure projects, which could include parks and heritage related facilities. Applications for funding under this programme are made to county council-led task forces which select projects for support.

Questions Nos. 777 and 778 answered with Question No. 767.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Willie Penrose

Question:

779 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when an application by Westmeath County Council in relation to the Milltownpass sewerage scheme will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33166/05]

The Milltownpass sewerage scheme has been approved for funding in the Department's water services investment programme 2004-06 under the rural towns and villages initiative at an estimated cost of €4.28 million. The Department approved Westmeath County Council's proposal to appoint a client's representative to prepare contract documents for the scheme in June 2005 and the Department is awaiting submission of the contract documents by the council.

Willie Penrose

Question:

780 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when final approval and the appropriate financial allocation will be given to Westmeath County Council to proceed with the very necessary sewerage infrastructural scheme for the village of Rathowen, County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33222/05]

The Rathowen sewerage scheme, estimated to cost €1.23 million, is included in the Department's water services investment programme 2004-06 as a scheme to complete planning. Westmeath County Council's preliminary report for the scheme is under examination in my Department and will be dealt with within the next few weeks. Following approval of the preliminary report, the council will be in a position to prepare contract documents for the scheme.

Local Authority Development Plans.

Billy Timmins

Question:

781 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the implications for a previous submission made by his Department to Wicklow County Council with respect to the Blessington draft development plan in March-April 2003, following a report (details supplied); if he intends to put a preservation order on the area; if so, the extent of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33265/05]

Submissions by my Department to Wicklow County Council in 2003 on the draft Blessington area plan were made in the context of its role as prescribed body under the Planning and Development Acts in heritage issues. At the time, it was recommended that appropriate buffer zones should be provided to protect the monuments in the vicinity referred to in the question and that archaeological conditions should be attached to any further extractive works in that vicinity.

My Department is also a statutory consultee in individual planning applications which may have an impact on the built or natural heritage. My Department received a copy of the planning application in question from Wicklow County Council and issued a response on 13 December 2004 recommending, inter alia, that permission should not be granted for the development unless the planning authority was satisfied that the archaeological heritage could be protected.

An Bord Pleanála is required to give independent consideration of planning authorities' decisions on planning applications in cases where such decisions are appealed to the board. In considering an appeal, the board must consider all submissions on the file, together with its own inspector's report and recommendation, and reach its own conclusion on the matter having regard to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area.

In the interests of the protection of archaeology and good regulatory practice, it is appropriate that the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2004 and the Planning and Development Act 2000 should be operated in a co-ordinated way. Having regard to this consideration and to the circumstances of this case, including the provisions of the County Wicklow development plan 2004-10 and the recent decision by An Bord Pleanála, the question of a preservation order does not arise at this time. However, I have not ruled out the potential use of a preservation order and I will be keeping the position under review.

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