Written Answers.

Labour Inspectorate.

Jack Wall

Question:

74 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment in regard to his announcement of the recruitment of an additional 11 labour inspectors, the number who have been appointed to date in 2005; when he expects the full number to be appointed; if they will be concentrated on any particular area of work; the ratio between the number of labour inspectors and the number in the workforce; the establishment level of the labour inspectorate and the number of posts filled at the latest date for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37890/05]

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

Following the Minister's announcement on 12 April last there are now 31 inspector posts sanctioned for the labour inspectorate. This represents almost a doubling of inspector personnel in the past 12 months and is indicative of a determination to ensure compliance with employment rights legislation. Following a recent selection process the labour inspectorate now has its full complement of 31 inspectors.

When the full complement of officers are fully operational they will concentrate on those employment sectors that have traditionally required considerable attention from the inspectorate. These would be the services sectors that are covered by employment regulation orders such as, hospitality, cleaning and agricultural work. It is notable that many migrant workers are employed in these sectors at present.

The latest CSO statistics indicate that the current number of workers in the workforce is now more than 2 million. In addition to the labour inspectorate, it should be noted that there is a wide corpus of employment rights legislation administered by various State organisations and services. These include the Employment Appeals Tribunal, the redundancy and insolvency sections of this Department, the rights commissioner services provided by the Labour Relations Commission and the services provided by the Labour Court. The labour inspectorate is a unit within the employment rights compliance section which also includes the employment rights information unit and a further separate unit that administers the referral of cases for prosecution and legal enforcement of orders. Between them, these various services have a complement of staff in excess of 150 people.

Seán Crowe

Question:

75 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether the labour inspectorate does not have the number of inspectors necessary to carry out its duties in respect of the increased workforce and in particular to inspect the treatment of the growing number of migrant workers here. [37918/05]

Joe Costello

Question:

140 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the continuing reports of ill treatment of immigrant workers; the steps he intends to take to deal with this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37884/05]

Martin Ferris

Question:

141 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to increase the strength of the labour inspectorate. [37912/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 75, 140 and 141 together.

No distinction is made in employment rights legislation between Irish and migrant workers. For the avoidance of doubt section 20 of the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001 provides that all employee protection legislation on the Statute Book in Ireland applies to workers posted to work in Ireland in line with Directive 96/71/EC of the European Parliament and Council of 16 December 1996. This directive relates to the posting of workers in the framework of the provision of services and applies also to a person, irrespective of his or her nationality or place of residence, who has entered into a contract of employment that provides for his or her being employed in the State or who works in the State under a contract of employment. Thus, all employee legislation applies to migrant workers.

The general approach adopted by the labour inspectorate to employment rights enforcement is to seek compliance and rectification of any breaches identified, including payment of any arrears due to employees. Inspectors pursue allegations of worker mistreatment and seek redress for the individual or individuals concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated. Successful prosecution can be dependent on adequate support from witnesses.

Following the Minister's announcement on 12 April last there are now 31 inspector posts sanctioned for the labour inspectorate. This represents almost a doubling of inspector personnel in the past 12 months and is indicative of a determination to ensure compliance with employment rights legislation. Following a recent selection process the labour inspectorate now has its full complement of 31 inspectors.

When the full complement of officers are fully operational they will concentrate on those employment sectors that have traditionally required considerable attention from the inspectorate. These would be the services sectors that are covered by employment regulation orders such as hospitality, cleaning and agricultural work. It is notable that many migrant workers are employed in these sectors at present.

Work has been progressing with regard to the discussion document prepared in connection with the mandate and resourcing of the labour inspectorate. The discussion document covers the full dimension of issues that impact on the operation of the labour inspectorate ranging from the legislative framework right through to the operational aspects and staff development. The social partners, together with representatives from the Departments of the Taoiseach and Finance, are members of the Employment Rights Compliance Group, ERCG, that is considering the discussion document. It is anticipated that the ERCG will conclude its business in January 2006.

Economic Competitiveness.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

76 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the fact that Ireland’s expenditure on research and development, according to the European innovation scoreboard and cited by the National Competitiveness Council, stands at just over 50% of the EU 25 average; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37868/05]

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

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

The Government, at its meeting this morning, approved the text of the Competition (Amendment) Bill 2005. I plan to publish the text as soon as practicable allowing for the fact that the Bill must now be printed.

The purpose of the Bill is to repeal the groceries order and to amend the Competition Act to prohibit resale price maintenance, unfair discrimination and "hello money" in the grocery trade. I hope the legislation will be enacted as soon as possible.

Jobs for People with Disabilities.

Dan Boyle

Question:

80 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, in view of the low rate of acceptance of grants by employers to support the entry of disabled persons into the workplace, the measures he has taken to raise awareness of such a scheme among employers. [37924/05]

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

Under the Government's mainstreaming policy, my Department through FÁS is seeking to increase the participation of disabled workers through a three-pronged approach involving, first, facilitating progression into sustainable employment through skills development; second, stimulating awareness among employers of the contribution that disabled people can make and encouraging them to recruit them; and third, providing specific employment supports for disabled people and employers.

The Department, through FÁS, provides a range of schemes and grants aimed at promoting or facilitating the employment of people with disabilities within the private sector, including: the disability awareness training support scheme; the workplace-equipment adaptation grant; the personal reader grant; the job interview interpreter grant; the employee retention grant scheme; and the supported employment programme.

A number of significant projects have also been undertaken to promote both the employment of disabled people and awareness of the supports available. These projects include, first, the funding of the Workway project which was an IBEC and ICTU initiative under Sustaining Progress. The aim of Workway was to promote the employment of disabled people in the private sector. Second, FÁS co-sponsored an RTE television series in 2004 and 2005 called "Three 60", which explored and challenged the attitudes about disability in Ireland through a wide range of stories and issues. The series included specific features particularly relevant to FÁS, outlining the employment grants and schemes available to employers. Third, FÁS is one of the sponsors for the O2 Ability awards granted to employers for best practice in the employment of disabled people. Fourth, in 2004, FÁS launched its Ability in the Workplace media campaign to highlight the abilities of disabled people in the labour market; and fifth, and most recently in July 2005, the new FÁS wage subsidy scheme was launched which provides progressive financial incentives for employers to take on additional workers with disabilities.

FÁS promotes its training and employment supports for disabled people on a systematic basis through such channels as its website, selected mail shots, presentations to relevant groups, publications, articles in magazines and newsletters, brochures and employer packs.

FÁS Training Programmes.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

81 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that facilities available in County Clare for the training of FÁS apprentices are inadequate; if training facilities will be provided for FÁS apprentices in Ennis (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37904/05]

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

I understand from FÁS that the phase two off-the-job element of apprenticeship, is provided in the FÁS training centre in Shannon. The centre currently has a capacity to cater for 310 apprentices per annum, having expanded from 280 places this year with the addition of extra electrical and plumbing classes. This capacity is significantly greater than the number of apprentices recruited by employers in County Clare. In the case of phases four and six, which are provided by the institutes of technology, the nearest locations are Limerick and Galway.

FÁS cannot provide facilities to deal with all trades in all locations but, in an overall context, it considers that the provision of places in County Clare is quite good when compared with current demand. FÁS provides supplementary accommodation and-or travel allowance to assist apprentices who have to travel a distance from home to attend the nearest available training facility.

Departmental Programmes.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

82 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if funding will be provided in 2006 to develop a post-primary programme to complement the discover primary science initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32753/05]

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

In 2006, under the aegis of Discover Science and Engineering, my Department's integrated awareness programme, it is intended to provide funding to develop a new post-primary pilot programme related closely to the new junior certificate science curriculum and complementing the discover primary science initiative. It is also proposed in 2006 to develop and pilot both subject and career focused initiatives, respectively, for transition and leaving certificate students.

Employment Rights.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

83 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made with regard to the Government’s proposals to provide legal protection on a sectoral basis for whistleblowers who may wish to expose illegalities or wrongdoing on the part of their employers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37896/05]

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

The Whistleblowers Protection Bill 1999 is still retained on the Government legislative programme. However, as previously stated on a number of occasions in the Dáil, it is now considered, on reflection, that the provision of statutory protection for whistleblowers on a sectoral basis might provide a better and more focused approach to dealing with this issue. Recent legislative initiatives in this regard are: section 27 of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, which came into effect from 1 September 2005 and provides for protection against dismissal and penalisation of employees who, in good faith, take steps to protect themselves or others in a workplace situation; and section 124 of the Garda Síochána Bill 2004, which provides for regulations relating to the reporting of corruption and malpractice in the Garda Síochána.

I intend to move an amendment on Committee Stage of the Employment Permits Bill 2005 relating to protection for whistleblowers. Committee Stage of this Bill will be taken in the Dáil early in 2006.

Economic Competitiveness.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

84 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the recently published report from the National Competitiveness Council, Competitiveness Challenge 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37867/05]

Mary Upton

Question:

146 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his response to the National Competitiveness Council’s recently published document Competitiveness Challenge 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37888/05]

Trevor Sargent

Question:

153 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will report on the recent work of the National Competitiveness Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37550/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 84, 146 and 153 together.

I welcome last month's publication of the National Competitiveness Council, NCC, Competitiveness Challenge 2005. The challenge, which builds on the analysis and benchmarking of the Annual Competitiveness Report 2005, is an important contribution to our policy making and thinking on strategic development issues. The purpose of the Competitiveness Challenge is to highlight the main challenges facing the Irish business sector and identify the policy responses to support and further improve Ireland's competitiveness position.

The Competitiveness Challenge 2005 recognises the remarkable success of Ireland's economic strategy over the past 20 years and acknowledges that we are currently in a position of economic strength. The report also identifies a vision for the future of the country as a dynamic, flexible economy. We are already on the path towards achieving that vision. The new work permits regime, our skills and training initiatives, investment in research and development and in infrastructure through Transport 21 and the considerable steps by the Government to strengthen competition provide the essential building blocks for the dynamic, flexible economy called for by the NCC.

However, the NCC also highlights several challenges to be addressed to sustain our competitiveness in the medium to long term. These challenges include increased global competition; our increased cost base; the need to manage the shift from manufacturing to services; and the need to further develop our knowledge economy. To address these challenges the council is proposing policy initiatives in the following four areas, tax and regulation, infrastructure, education and training and entrepreneurship and innovation. Of particular importance are the proposals on increased investment in research and development, education, the need for increased vigilance in ensuring value for money and promoting competitive markets. All the policy initiatives suggested by the NCC will be given careful consideration by Government.

Unemployment Levels.

David Stanton

Question:

85 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that youth unemployment has been consistently over twice the overall national rate of unemployment in the past four years (details supplied); the efforts his Department is making to tackle youth unemployment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37919/05]

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

The success of the Irish labour market over the past decade has been unparalleled in the recent history of Europe. Since 1997 more than 522,000 jobs have been created, unemployment has more than halved and long-term unemployment has fallen to 1.4%. Over the same period, the number of young persons in employment has increased by approximately 20% while the number of unemployed youths has fallen by 27%. This impressive labour market performance has continued this year with the latest CSO figures showing an increase of 5% in the numbers employed. The most recent EU data show our youth unemployment rate of 8.5% is the second lowest in the EU and well below the EU 25 average rate of 18.1%.

The report referred to by the Deputy states that the youth unemployment rate has fallen in recent years and that the rate generally tends to be higher than the overall unemployment rate. This is not unique to Ireland and is mainly due to factors such as seasonal employment and a greater level of frictional unemployment. Young persons in the labour market tend to be more mobile and switch jobs more often.

A wide range of labour market measures specifically designed to help young people access the labour market are available through FÁS. FÁS systematically engages with unemployed young people early in their unemployment spell, to prevent a drift into long-term unemployment. These persons are accorded priority by FÁS in the allocation of places on its training and employment programmes. In addition, FÁS has a specific programme of action designed to provide early school leavers with basic skills and work experience to aid progress towards further training or employment.

Community Employment Schemes.

Phil Hogan

Question:

86 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to review the community employment scheme particularly in relation to core services provided to persons with disabilities; his views on mainstreaming the core funding of those services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37541/05]

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

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. Decisions regarding the provision of core funding for the health services generally is a matter for the Minister for Health and Children.

Company Closures.

Damien English

Question:

87 Mr. English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action he intends to take on the threatened closure of a plant (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37857/05]

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

The company in question has announced that it intends to close its Sligo operation by the end of 2006. I understand that the company has commenced an extended staff consultation process of 60 days and the outcome of this process is likely to be a phased transfer of the operation outside of Ireland next year.

The company was acquired earlier this year and, I understand, the parent company considers that there is a need to consolidate operations as there is not enough business to support the operation of a number of facilities that make similar product. A review of the operations at Sligo has led to the conclusion that the Sligo business should be relocated. The review was the direct result of the competitive pressure being experienced by the company's customers and a requirement to continue to reduce manufacturing costs. While the most likely scenario is a phased shutdown of the Sligo operation beginning in spring 2006, nonetheless, IDA Ireland will continue to work closely with the company while the review process is under way.

Job losses are of ongoing concern and the Government is doing all in its power to create structures through its enterprise development and training agencies to facilitate those who lose jobs to gain new ones, particularly ones that offer more opportunity in terms of skills and permanence. While FÁS has already visited the company, the agency is awaiting confirmation as to when it can commence the process of interviewing the staff. The full range of FÁS services will be offered to the staff if the staff wish to avail of those services.

There have been two particularly significant job announcements for Sligo in recent times. These are Abbott Ireland, which is to add 350 new jobs to its existing facility, and IDT Toucan, which is to create 300 new jobs at its customer service centre. I can assure the Deputy that the State development agencies under the aegis of my Department will continue to work closely together and with local interests in promoting Sligo for further job creation and investment.

Departmental Investigations.

Richard Bruton

Question:

88 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action his Department has taken following reports of mistreatment of periwinkle pickers off the north Dublin coast; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37863/05]

Joe Costello

Question:

123 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the investigation his Department has held into the circumstances in which 11 immigrant workers were reported to have been abandoned off an island near Skerries in County Dublin; the outcome of such investigation; if his Department intends to take action arising from this incident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37883/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 123 together.

The labour inspectorate of my Department has been in contact with relevant colleagues in the Garda Síochána, the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and the Health and Safety Authority. An inspector has interviewed the boat owner and two of the Latvian people who were gathering the shellfish. It has not been possible to establish any detail of an employment relationship and the Latvian interviewees made no complaint.

The Latvian Embassy has been contacted on the matter to ascertain if any complaints had been received there in connection with the incident. It appears that complaints have not been received. The embassy was assured that any complaints will be investigated and advised that in the event an employment relationship is established, the inspectorate will undertake a full inspection of relevant employment records and pursue any non-compliance with legislation within its remit.

The Health and Safety Authority, which is responsible for the enforcement of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and other relevant worker protection legislation, has liaised with the Garda on this matter. However, concrete information is hard to come by and it is difficult to make progress especially as the main parties concerned are not contactable and have not submitted complaints.

Job Creation.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

89 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the efforts being made by the job employment creation agencies to bring jobs to Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37855/05]

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

The Deputy will be aware that there have been significant job announcements in Donegal recently with more than 210 new jobs announced in September 2005 by Zeus Industrial Products, Letterkenny and PowerBoard, Burnfoot. These projects are being supported by the Industrial Development Agency and Enterprise Ireland, respectively. This was in addition to 423 jobs I announced earlier this year for the north west region.

The State development agencies under my auspices, IDA, EI, FÁS and Donegal County Enterprise Board, are fully committed to supporting and promoting job creation and job retention in Donegal. In addition to recent job announcements, this commitment is also evidenced by ongoing development and support by the agencies for a number of business parks and enterprise centres in Donegal. These include the completion of the IDA Letterkenny Business Park, the provision of a 25,000 sq. ft. advance office building at Windyhall, the completion of site development work at Ballyshannon for a new facility and also a development at Buncrana where IDA is working with a local developer to provide new manufacturing and office buildings. In addition to providing support for nine community enterprise centres in Donegal, Enterprise Ireland has provided substantial support for the expansion of the Letterkenny Institute of Technology Business Development Centre and the development of a Marine Biotechnology Centre.

The development agencies will continue to work together to promote Donegal in order to attract investment and to foster job creation there. However, I also recognise that there have been significant job losses in Donegal in recent years, and I have visited the county twice since becoming Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I have met many groups and companies on these visits to discuss both the county's difficulties and opportunities. My colleagues in Government also recognise the particular difficulties in Donegal and we will work together to assist in improving the overall environment to increase the attractiveness of Donegal as a location for enterprises. In that context, I established an interdepartmental group on Donegal chaired by the Secretary General of my Department. I assure the Deputy that support for job creation in Donegal will continue to remain a priority for the State development agencies under the auspices of my Department.

Economic Competitiveness.

At wider Government level public capital investment in infrastructure is being prioritised through the rolling five-year multi-annual capital envelopes introduced in budget 2004 under which public capital investment is maintained at around 5% of GNP. This level of investment is currently about twice the EU average. The Minister for Finance also recently announced a 12 point plan to ensure value for money to build on existing initiatives that are already in place such as administrative budgets, the expenditure review initiative and the new capital appraisal guidelines.

Labour Inspectorate.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

91 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made to date in 2005 with regard to consideration of the discussion document covering the operation of the labour inspectorate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37889/05]

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

The social partners, together with representatives from the Departments of the Taoiseach and Finance, are members of the Employment Rights Compliance Group, ERCG, that is considering the discussion document. To date, the ERCG has met on six occasions. The group has explored the various topics contained in the discussion document, together with additional items introduced by the social partners. While a consensus has been established around certain proposals further discussion and consideration is required in respect of others.

The most recent meeting received a presentation from the Department outlining a possible future model for enforcement and monitoring and employment rights compliance. A constructive debate followed and some key points for further consideration were identified. The next meeting of the group, scheduled for 20 December, will focus again on this issue and will discuss the various parties' reflections in the meantime. It is anticipated that the ERCG will conclude its business in January 2006.

Departmental Investigations.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

92 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the costs incurred by the State, at the latest date for which figures are available, arising from the various inquiries instigated by or on behalf of his Department; the element of these costs that has been recovered from the other parties involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37893/05]

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

113 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position in regard to each of the inquiries being carried out by or on behalf of his Department; the projected date for the conclusion of each such investigation; the inquiries in respect of which reports have been referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37892/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 92 and 113 together.

Sixteen investigations into company law matters were initiated by my predecessor in the period since 1997. In three cases, the High Court appointed, on an application by the Minister, inspectors under section 8 of the Companies Act 1990. The inspectors appointed to Ansbacher (Cayman) Limited presented their report to the High Court on 10 June 2002. The report was subsequently published and referred to the DPP.

The inspectors appointed to National Irish Bank Limited, and National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited, presented their report to the High Court on 12 July 2004. The report was subsequently published. The court ordered that a copy of the report be referred to several relevant authorities, including the DPP. Earlier this year, the Director of Corporate Enforcement initiated proceedings in the High Court under section 160(2) of the Companies Act 1990, as amended, seeking the disqualification of nine persons against whom adverse comment was made by the inspectors. I welcomed the director's action in this case. I note that last October the High Court granted a disqualification order against one of the nine persons. The proceedings against the other eight remain before the court.

One investigation under section 14 of the Companies Act 1990 was completed in 1998. The report on this was referred to the DPP. One investigation was undertaken under section 59 of the Insurance Act 1989. The report on this was referred to the DPP as well as to the inspectors who undertook the section 8 investigation into that company.

Eleven investigations were initiated by the Minister under section 19 of the Companies Act 1990. Six of these have been concluded. Of the six investigations completed, two of the reports were referred to the DPP. A number of summary prosecutions have since been successfully concluded in one case. One report provided an input into the successful application to the High Court for the appointment of inspectors under section 8 while the fourth report was passed to the relevant High Court inspectors. One report was completed in September 2002 and a further report was completed in March 2003. Both reports have been referred to the Director of Corporate Enforcement.

Two of the 11 section 19 investigations were held up in legal appeals. These inquiries are now the responsibility of the Director of Corporate Enforcement. In relation to the three remaining section 19 investigations, the current position is that following the completion of the review to which I referred in response to a previous parliamentary question on 31 May 2005, I directed the authorised officer to place at the disposal of relevant public authorities, including tribunals, whatever information arising from his investigative work was required for the purpose of the performance by those authorities of their statutory functions. This process is currently in progress and I hope it will be completed within a reasonable time. My objective in giving this direction is to achieve the earliest possible pursuit by the appropriate authorities of any matter which may require action by them.

The costs incurred since 1997 on company investigations initiated by or on behalf of my Department currently amount to approximately €11.1 million. This amount does not include the salary costs of Civil Service staff working on a number of these investigations or the legal costs which are primarily being borne by the Vote of the Chief State Solicitor. Of the €11.1 million expended, €1.8 million relates to section 19 investigations by authorised officers and the remaining €9.3 million was incurred by High Court inspectors appointed under section 8 —€5.8 million in the case of National Irish Bank Limited-National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited and €3.5 million in the case of Ansbacher (Cayman) Limited.

The question of recovering costs from the section 8 investigations does not arise until such time as the inspectors complete their investigations. In the case of the Ansbacher inquiry, the High Court proceedings taken by the State to recover the costs of the inquiry were settled out of court for the sum of €1.25 million in favour of the State.

In the case of National Irish Bank Limited-National Irish Bank Financial Services Limited, the court ordered that National Irish Bank pay the full costs of the investigation. I understand that the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, which had borne the costs of the investigation, has recouped the full cost from National Irish Bank. Section 19 as originally enacted did not provide for the recoupment of costs. This has now changed with the enactment of the Company Law Enforcement Act 2001.

Ministerial Appointments.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

93 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the circumstances and terms under which the chief science adviser, Mr. Barry McSweeney recently departed his post; if compensation or severance package was paid to Mr. McSweeney; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37879/05]

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

As I stated publicly on 15 November, Mr. Barry McSweeney left his position as chief science adviser to the Government on that date and he is to take up a new position as research co-ordinator within the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.

Mr. Barry McSweeney left his position as CSA under the terms of his contract, which was with Forfás. I understand that no compensation or severance package was paid to him.

Departmental Appointments.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

94 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when he expects to fill the vacancy in the Competition Authority caused by the resignation of a person (details supplied). [37862/05]

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

Mr. Henneberry formally informed me of his intention to resign from his post of member of the Competition Authority on 15 November 2005. His resignation, which is for personal reasons, will be effective from 30 January 2006.

I take this opportunity to place on record my appreciation of the excellent contribution Mr. Henneberry has made to the work of the Competition Authority since his appointment in September 2003.

Under the Competition Act 2002 appointments to the position of member of the Competition Authority are made by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment through an open and competitive process. The Public Appointments Service has commenced the process for sourcing Mr. Henneberry's replacement. I hope to be in a position to announce Mr. Henneberry's successor early next year.

Industrial Development.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

95 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when he will visit County Kerry to meet Tralee Chamber of Commerce and other groups and agencies to discuss the absence of foreign direct investment in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37934/05]

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

In response to a similar question posed by the Deputy in November last, I indicated that I had visited Kerry on 21 July 2005 with officials from my Department and the State development agencies. During the course of this visit I met Kenmare Chamber of Commerce and representative organisations and businesses in Caherciveen, Killorglin and Killarney. Wide-ranging discussions were held concerning economic development in the region.

It is my intention to visit the Tralee and north Kerry area as soon as my departmental and parliamentary commitments permit and I look forward to discussion with the local chambers of commerce and other interested groups about investment and economic development generally in the region.

I understand that IDA Ireland is actively marketing the region. At the end of 2004, there were 2,022 people in permanent employment in 21 IDA supported companies in the county. The agency has now completed site development works on its Business and Technology Park at Tiernaboul in Killarney. A local group of business people have completed a new building of 14,716 sq. ft. on a site acquired from IDA on the this park. IDA is also actively marketing the Kerry Technology Park adjacent to the institute of technology in Tralee and the Listowel Development Centre. In addition to targeting potential new projects, the agency is also working with its existing portfolio of companies in the region, with a view to supporting such companies with potential expansions and diversification of activities.

Trade Liberalisation.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

96 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on proposals to ban energy efficiency, recycling and other eco-labels on the grounds of non-tariff-barriers that are to be discussed as part of the non-agricultural market access talks at the sixth WTO ministerial meeting in Hong Kong from 13 to 18 December 2005. [37928/05]

Eamon Ryan

Question:

276 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on proposals to ban energy efficient labels on the ground of non-tariff-barriers as part of the non-agricultural market access talks at the sixth WTO ministerial meeting in Hong Kong from 13 to 18 December 2005. [37939/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 276 together.

There are no proposals to ban energy efficiency, recycling and other eco-labels on the grounds of non-tariff-barriers that are to be discussed as part of the non-agricultural market access talks at the sixth WTO ministerial meeting in Hong Kong from 13 to 18 December 2005.

Employment Rights.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

97 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when action will be taken to address the unacceptable situation whereby competition law is being mischievously used by the Competition Authority to attack the rights of certain workers, in particular actors, musicians, film crews and freelance journalists to be collectively represented. [37910/05]

Seán Crowe

Question:

105 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether there is a conflict of interest within his Department where at present the Competition Authority, which is attacking the rights of certain workers, in particular actors, musicians, film crews and freelance journalists to be collectively represented, falls under the aegis of his Department while his Department also has responsibility for workers rights. [37917/05]

Jack Wall

Question:

110 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on an amendment to the Competition Act 2002 to reinstate the right of self-employed actors to be members of and be represented by a trade union in pursuit of improved pay and conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37899/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 97, 105 and 110 together.

The purpose of competition law is to prohibit anti-competitive practices by "undertakings" such as price fixing and-or the abuse of a dominant position. The Competition Act 2002 applies to all sectors of the economy in the State. An "undertaking" is defined in the Act as "a person being an individual, a body corporate or an unincorporated body of persons engaged for gain in the production, supply, or distribution of goods or the provision of a service". This definition has been in use in Irish competition law for some time and is supported by EU case law.

The authority's decision, which describes how it came to its view on this case, is published on its website, tca.ie. It states that while it is perfectly legal for Equity to represent employed actors in collective bargaining with their employers, its trade union mantle cannot exempt its conduct when it acts as a trade association for self-employed contractors. In this case the authority determined that the actors in question were self-employed contractors and not employees.

In considering the question of whether an exemption from competition law should be provided for actors, musicians, film crews and freelance journalists, therefore, we need to bear in mind that a similar argument could be made for almost any group of self-employed contractors, such as barristers, publicans, doctors or pharmacists, who, by coming together, adding union to their name and getting a negotiating licence, could circumvent the protections afforded to consumers by the Oireachtas in the Competition Act.

I understand, however, that the view expressed by the Competition Authority was in respect of this particular case only. The parties to the investigation have entered into undertakings with the authority in settlement of the case, thereby avoiding the necessity of going to court. It is only the courts who can interpret the law. I have no plans to amend current legislation in this matter.

Industrial Development.

Liam Twomey

Question:

98 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department intends taking extra action to improve the industrial and economic climate of the Shannon region following the decision to end the Shannon stop-over; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37875/05]

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

National aviation policy, including the establishment of the new Shannon Airport Authority and changes to the Ireland-US bilateral air services arrangements fall within the policy remit of my colleague, the Minister for Transport.

My Department and the development agencies under its remit, Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, Shannon Development and the city and county enterprise boards, are committed to the economic and industrial development of the Shannon region, in line with national enterprise policy goals, and the achievement of balanced regional development, within the framework of the national spatial strategy.

The House will be aware that I recently announced details of a new mandate for Shannon Development. Under the terms of the new mandate the company is being given a more focused regional economic development remit that will complement the roles of the national agencies, IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland, in attracting foreign direct investment and developing the indigenous enterprise base in the region. The city and county enterprise boards will continue to provide supports to stimulate economic activity at local level and to promote the establishment of micro-enterprises in the region.

The new mandate is based on Shannon Development's own future strategy proposals and has the support of the board and other stakeholders in the region. It is also in line with the recommendations of the Enterprise Strategy Group and the decision to decentralise the headquarters of Enterprise Ireland to Shannon. The new arrangements will provide for a more logical delineation of responsibilities between the enterprise development agencies in the mid-west region and for greater clarity in relation to the economic development aspects of Shannon Development's remit. I have asked the company to prepare a new three-year corporate plan to give substance to the mandate and I hope to receive this in the near future.

IDA Ireland's strategy for the mid-west region places an emphasis on the gateway and hub locations of Shannon-Limerick, Tralee and Ennis. The location of new overseas investment in the gateway and hub locations not alone brings high wage jobs to these locations but has knock-on benefits in other sectors such as supply, distribution and transport, thus creating further investment-employment opportunities for local people in the immediate vicinity and surrounding areas. IDA Ireland's sectoral emphasis in the mid-west region is on attracting new knowledge intensive projects in information communications and technology, international services, medical technologies and life sciences.

The airport provides a strong selling point for the region and all of the agencies and stakeholders in the region agree that the successful development of Shannon Airport is vital to its economic success. They are already working together to enhance the potential of the region in fora such as the Atlantic Technology Corridor and the Atlantic Way. IDA Ireland works with the airport to monitor routes, schedules, etc., to ensure ease of access and timeliness for potential inward investment opportunities. Shannon Development, in conjunction with other stakeholders, has also initiated work on the possible development of an agile logistics hub at the airport. The company also has responsibility for tourism development in the Shannon region.

County Enterprise Boards.

Denis Naughten

Question:

99 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps he is taking to develop the county enterprise board investment programmes in the Border, midlands and western region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37539/05]

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

There are 13 county enterprise boards operating in the BMW region. These boards deliver the micro-enterprise measure under the Border, midlands and west, BMW, regional operational programme 2000-2006. The BMW region's Objective One status allows the use of comparatively better rates of incentives to business and assists the region in promoting and developing indigenous micro-enterprises.

The specific types of CEB assistance available to micro-enterprise from the measure is broken down between measure one — project support expenditure, including grants for feasibility studies, employment grants and capital grants, and measure two — soft supports activities such as business advice, management and e-commerce training, enterprise education and programmes aimed as assisting and promoting women in business.

I have allocated total Exchequer funding of more than €10.8 million to the CEBs in the BMW region for the current year. This represents an increase of nearly 7% on the 2004 allocation. The CEBs apply this allocation to fund their activities in support of micro-enterprise, that is, businesses with fewer than ten employees. Their function is to develop indigenous enterprise potential and to stimulate economic activity at local level. In providing support to enterprises, the CEBs are required to have regard to the quality, local relevance, cost effectiveness and viability of proposals. They must also seek to avoid supporting projects that would displace existing jobs or businesses. In this regard, the boards are required to give priority to manufacturing and internationally traded services companies, which over time may develop into strong export entities. The local base of the CEBs which is responsible for the delivery of the micro-enterprise measure in the BMW region means that the projects supported are tailored to the particular needs of the local economic environment.

Labour Inspectorate.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

100 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of employers who have been subjected to inspections by the labour inspectorate in the past 12 months; and the number of these employers which employ migrant workers. [37916/05]

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

The labour inspectorate is responsible for monitoring certain employment conditions for all categories of workers in Ireland, including immigrant workers. The inspectorate operates without any differentiation with regard to worker nationality as statutory employment rights and protections apply to immigrant workers in exactly the same manner as they do to native Irish workers. Accordingly, the labour inspectorate does not have a statistical breakdown of the number of employers who employ migrant workers. Inspectors pursue allegations of worker mistreatment and when evidence of non-compliance with the relevant employment rights legislation is found, the inspectorate seeks redress for the individual or individuals concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated. A total of 4,225 workplace inspections-visits have been undertaken by the labour inspectorate since the commencement of 2005. An important measure of the effectiveness of the labour inspectorate is to look at the arrears of pay collected on behalf of employees. Almost €400,000 has been recovered by the inspectorate in 2005.

Following the Minister's announcement earlier this year, there are now 31 inspector posts sanctioned for the labour inspectorate. This represents almost a doubling of inspector personnel in the past 12 months and is indicative of a determination to ensure compliance with employment rights legislation. Following a recent selection process the labour inspectorate now has its full complement of 31 inspectors.

When the full complement of officers is fully operational they will concentrate on those employment sectors that have traditionally required considerable attention from the inspectorate. These would be the services sectors that are covered by employment regulation orders such as hospitality, cleaning and agricultural work. It is notable that many migrant workers are employed in these sectors at present. I urge anyone who has specific evidence of the mistreatment of workers to furnish all the relevant details and any related materials to the inspectorate with a view to pursuing the matter.

As regards structures, the Government has approved a recommendation of Enterprise Strategy Group for the establishment of a new central co-ordination unit within Enterprise Ireland, which will provide the CEBs with central direction, technical support, shared services and quality assurance with a view to enhancing the effectiveness, efficiency and impact of the CEBs. Discussions are taking place between my Department and the relevant agencies regarding the steps necessary to implement the ESG's recommendation in this regard. It is my intention to have this new unit established in early 2006.

Mergers and Acquisitions.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

104 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a submission has been made to the Competition Authority with regard to the proposed purchase of the Meteor mobile phone company and NTL cable company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34537/05]

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

The proposed acquisition by UPC Ireland BV — ultimately owned by Liberty Global Inc. which also owns Chorus — of MS Irish Cable Holdings Limited, trading as NTL, was notified to the Competition Authority on 24 May 2005. This proposal constituted a "media merger" under the Competition Act 2002.

The Competition Authority carried out a full competition assessment of the case and on 4 November 2005 determined that the acquisition would not substantially lessen competition provided the parties comply with the conditions set out in its determination. While the authority found no significant overlap between the merging parties' businesses since both Chorus and NTL serve different geographic regions, nonetheless competition concerns arose because of cross-ownership issues involving Chorus and BskyB, which were compounded by the acquisition of NTL. While these cross-ownership issues are complex, the matter was resolved to the satisfaction of the authority through the imposition of 19 conditions in its determination.

Under the media merger provisions in the Competition Act, my role in the regulatory process is confined to considering the acquisition in the context of the relevant criteria listed at section 23(10) of the Act. These criteria essentially relate to media plurality and cross-media issues.

In addition to its competition assessment and determination, the authority provided me with its opinion on the impact of the acquisition in respect of the relevant criteria. The authority essentially considered that the acquisition would not raise concerns in respect of these criteria. Having considered the advice of my Department on 2 December, I decided not to make any order prohibiting the acquisition. The proposed acquisition of Meteor by Eircom was notified to the Competition Authority on 12 August 2005 and cleared by the authority on 18 November. However, as this acquisition did not constitute a media merger under the Competition Act, I had no role in the regulatory process.

Question No. 105 answered with QuestionNo. 97.

County Enterprise Boards.

Denis Naughten

Question:

106 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to review the eligibility criteria for funding from county enterprise boards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37540/05]

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

Within the past two years my Department, through Forfás, commissioned a review of the role and functions of the CEBs in the development of micro-enterprises. The review represents the most comprehensive examination of the role and functions of the CEBs since their inception over ten years ago. It largely endorsed the activities and operations of the CEBs and concluded that there is justification for continued State support to micro-enterprises and that the CEB network can continue to play a useful role in the overall national enterprise development policy.

The review recommended that: in providing assistance to micro-enterprises, CEBs should focus more on economic, rather than social or local development, objectives; that there should be a renewed focus on the core enterprise mission; that the issues of potential deadweight, displacement and duplication should be more systematically and rigorously addressed; and that there should be a move away from grants to repayable finance as well as to soft supports. My Department has been working with the CEBs in respect of the reorientation of their focus in line with this recommendation. Taking account of the foregoing factors, I am satisfied that the current eligibility criteria are appropriate and I have no plans for any further review of them at this time.

Equality Issues.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

107 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has received a copy of the report by the ESRI entitled Degrees of Equality: Gender Pay Differentials Among Recent Graduates; and the action he is taking to tackle the issue of gender pay differentials. [37915/05]

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

The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has responsibility for policy on equality and the ESRI report to which the Deputy referred was commissioned by his Department. I have not received a copy of the report but I understand it has been received at official level in my Department. Consideration of all issues arising from the report is primarily the responsibility of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and my Department will contribute to these deliberations, as appropriate.

Labour Force.

David Stanton

Question:

108 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the efforts his Department is making to encourage older persons to re-enter the workforce; the barriers older persons face when attempting to rejoin the workforce; the supports and services available to these persons to assist with labour force re-entry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37920/05]

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

The number of older workers in employment has increased by 33% over the past ten years and the employment rate now stands at close to 51%. This is above the EU target of 50% to be reached by 2010. This increase was mostly due to those outside the workforce returning to employment. In addition, the average exit age from the labour force is now the highest in the EU at 64.4 years.

Government policy is to facilitate those who wish to extend their working lives to do so. A number of measures are in place to ensure that the participation of older workers in the labour market continues to improve. Equality legislation safeguards older workers from discrimination in the labour market and the Equality Authority makes employers aware of the benefits of employing older people through age awareness campaigns. In addition, a guide, which provides advice on attracting and retaining older workers, is made available to employers by IBEC.

Inflexible working arrangements can encourage early retirement and also discourage older workers who have retired from coming back into the workforce. Work-life balance policies are helpful in attracting older workers into the labour market and in this regard, the National Framework Committee for Work Life Balance, comprising represetatives of Departments, the social partners and the Equality Authority, support and facilitate the development of work-life balance policies at the level of the enterprise.

129 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the legislative changes he may consider in response to the dispute at Irish Ferries and the practice of companies operating in the market here being able to flout minimum wage and other employment laws; the communications he has had with the European Commission to examine the way in which such compliance might be enforced with employment laws here under current European laws. [37932/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

138 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to deal with the situation at Irish Ferries; if he expects a knock on effect; if the situation in regard to staffing has a precedent or is likely to set one; if he is conscious of the implications for future partnership agreements arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37852/05]

Brendan Howlin

Question:

147 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in view of the stance adopted by Irish Ferries in relation to its workforce, he supports a change in labour law to afford greater protection to seafarers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37900/05]

Catherine Murphy

Question:

151 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the employment rights available under Irish or EU law to ship workers employed by shipping companies operating under the Irish flag; if such workers have pension rights here; if they pay PRSI and PAYE contributions to the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37933/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

291 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to ensure the ongoing availability of ferry services from here to the UK; and the continent having regard to the need of the manufacturing sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38217/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

292 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the discussions he has had with the management at Irish Ferries with a view to restoring some semblance of normal labour relations and the need for an island nation to have easy access to ferry services of a quality on which industry and the domestic sector can confidently rely; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38218/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 109, 122, 129, 138, 147, 151, 291, and 292 together.

On 4 December 2005 the National Implementation Body made a series of recommendations to the social partners and the Government regarding the maintenance and protection of employment standards in the Irish labour market. The National Implementation Body also made recommendations in respect of the dispute at Irish Ferries. The Irish Ferries recommendations were as follows: that Irish Ferries should suspend its application to re-register its vessels on the register of Cyprus; the efforts to arrive at an agreement regarding the terms and conditions of employees who wish to remain in the employment of Irish Ferries should continue and be brought to a conclusion not later than 7 December; the terms and conditions of employees who are recruited to work on these Irish Ferries vessels in the future should reflect, inter alia, Irish minimum wage arrangements, in the context of the unique nature of the contracts of employment which typically operate in the maritime sector, and to the competitive pressures faced by the company; and in the event that the outcome of this process was that these vessels were not maintained on the Irish register, then the terms of any agreement with regard to existing employees, and the standards which would apply to employees who are recruited to work on these Irish Ferries vessels in the future, should be reflected in an agreement of binding character which would not be vitiated by any subsequent change in the country of registration. The NIB urged the parties, without prejudice to their respective positions, to engage fully with the Labour Relations Commission over the period ending on 7 December with a view to finalising an agreement.

Last week I met the management of Irish Ferries and representatives of SIPTU and ICTU to convey to them the Government's concerns as to the gravity of the situation and the wider implications of the ongoing dispute. I urged all sides to engage in the Labour Relations Commission process with a view to achieving a resolution to the issues in dispute. I welcome the fact that the parties to this dispute have entered into negotiations facilitated by the Labour Relations Commission. The work already undertaken by and with the National Implementation Body, the Labour Court and the Labour Relations Commission provides a firm basis for resolution. I hope the parties succeed in the process to resolve this dispute quickly and without further disruption to ferry services.

In so far as the terms and conditions of employees on an Irish registered vessel are concerned, I am advised that if the owner of the vessel is an Irish individual or body corporate that the employees on the vessel are subject to the provisions of Irish law.

While recognising the exceptional situation that has arisen in the maritime sector, it is important to remember that there is already a comprehensive body of employment rights legislation in place, which has as its objective the protection of employees against arbitrary behaviour by employers; provision for the safety and health of workers; and to foster labour market harmony by promoting policies that minimise conflict and maximise fairness. In general, this legislation mirrors the broader EU social protection framework in the area of employment rights. In this regard, and in line with the principle of subsidiarity, enforcement of employment rights legislation derived form EU directives is a matter for each member state to determine. This body of law is, and will continue to be, enforced by Government.

Following my announcement on 12 April last there are now 31 inspector posts sanctioned for the labour inspectorate. This represents almost a doubling of the complement of inspectors in the past 12 months and is indicative of my determination to ensure compliance with employment rights legislation. Apart from the strengthening of staff resources, other initiatives are under way also. Arising from a commitment in Sustaining Progress, and in order to assist in the preparation of proposals for consideration by Government, a discussion document was prepared by the labour inspectorate in relation to its mandate and resourcing. The discussion document covered the full dimension of issues that impact on the operation of the labour inspectorate ranging from the legislative framework right through to the operational aspects and staff development. The discussion document has been well received among the social partners and the parties are well advanced in their consideration of the proposals that exceed 40 at the moment. The objective is to formulate a set of recommendations for consideration by Government.

On 24 May last, the Minister of State, Deputy Killeen, announced a programme of action in response to the report and recommendations of the review group on the role and functions of the employment rights bodies and following consultations with the various interested parties. This included the establishment of an Employment Rights Group, ERG, comprising representatives of my Department, the employment rights bodies and the social partners. The ERG pursues the Government mandate to guide and drive the implementation of Government decisions on the role and functions of the employment rights bodies and to ensure the complexity of employment rights legislation does not impede understanding and compliance. The objectives of the exercise are to ensure streamlining of the roles of the employment rights bodies and simplification and consolidation of the corpus of employment rights legislation. Its work should be completed by the end of next year.

The concerns about the protection of workers' jobs, pay and conditions of employment raise complex legal and policy issues. The Government is committed to taking whatever steps are feasible, through legislation or otherwise, to develop, in partnership with congress and employers, a meaningful package in the area of enhanced employment standards generally. These issues can best be advanced through dialogue in the context of the partnership process.

Matters in relation to pension rights, PRSI and PAYE are matters for the Minister for Social and Family Affairs and the Revenue Commissioners. Matters on the availability of ferry services operating from Ireland are a matter for the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.

Question No. 110 answered with QuestionNo. 97.

Environmental Issues.

John Gormley

Question:

111 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the resources his Department has in place to ensure that environmental issues affecting business, such as climate change, sustainable production and sustainable consumption are being adequately addressed. [37930/05]

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

My Department has a specific policy unit, comprising three staff members dedicated to dealing with environmental policy issues affecting business. The unit is currently engaged on a range of environmental policies, including: climate changes issues such as preparations for the second national allocation plan under the EU emissions trading scheme; the EU environmental technologies action programme; and implementation of the Department's sustainable development strategy.

In dealing with these issues, the unit has access to assistance from the Department's enterprise agencies which have also committed resources to business environmental issues. In addition, staff in other areas of my Department are also engaged on environmental issues which arise in their areas of responsibility. For example, the REACH unit is dealing with the proposed EU regulation on chemicals — REACH — and the Government recently appointed the Health and Safety Authority as national competent authority for the administration and enforcement of REACH in Ireland. It has approved the necessary staff resources to enable the authority carry out this function, including a provision in the recent Estimates.

Enterprise Ireland has an environment policy department staffed by 30 environmental specialists. It provides a range of services to Irish industry including free one-to-one advice on environmental issues by phone or e-mail. Free site visits are available to Enterprise Ireland client companies. Another service provided is a one stop environmental website for industry at www.envirocentre.ie. The website, established in 2002 and part-funded by my Department, provides information including details of EI’s supports for industry and guides to environmental legislation. Further services provided are: eco-efficiency audits of active Enterprise Ireland client companies; environmental events and regional fora to update business on environmental developments and address shared environmental problems on a regional or sectoral basis; financial incentives to assist companies in meeting environmental management systems standards to ISO 14001, and to develop more environmentally friendly products known as the environmentally superior products scheme; monitoring emissions to atmosphere and air quality, water and wastewater analysis, aquatic toxicity and respirometry testing and advice on biological effluent treatment. Fees are charged for these services and they are available to all Irish industry. Another service provided is representation on national and EU task forces including the national waste prevention programme, the national waste materials development group and the EU BEST programme to simplify environmental law.

In addition, EI has an environment markets department, which comprises one environmental specialist, three business development specialists and representatives from Enterprise Ireland's overseas offices. It provides business development and international networking for the Irish environmental manufacturing sector.

145 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the numbers of deaths and injuries reported arising from industrial accidents in each year from 2000 to 2004 and to date in 2005; the further steps he intends to take to reduce the level of such accidents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37894/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 112, 125 and 145 together.

There have been 12 fatalities in the workplace and 1,623 reported accidents since the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 came into operation on 1 September 2005. There also have been 70 fatalities in 2000, 64 in 2001, 61 in 2002, 67 in 2003, 49 in 2004 and 66 in the first 11 months of this year. I will circulate to Deputies an analysis of the 2005 figures. However, I point out that the construction sector has the highest figure at 22 so far this year and the agriculture, hunting and forestry sector has the next highest at 16 fatalities. Although there has been a downward trend in the rate of workplace accidents as a proportion of the overall number employed in the workforce, nonetheless, the figures are unacceptable.

The Health and Safety Authority recently expressed concern over the number of deaths involving non-nationals this year. I share this concern. Provisional figures indicate that eight non-nationals have died in work-related accidents out of the total of 66 so far this year. The authority considers that these figures may be indicative of a worrying trend and has called on all employers to ensure they are adequately communicating the risks and providing appropriate safety training for all employees, including those who are non-English speaking. Of these eight fatalities this year, four have occurred in construction, two in manufacturing, and two in wholesale and retail trade. The Health and Safety Authority has been working on a programme of information resources aimed at non-English speakers and specific provisions relating to such workers are now included in the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005.

The Health and Safety Authority recognises the new challenges that the growth of non-English speaking people within the workforce brings. The authority launched earlier this year an initiative entitled Safe System of Work Plan aimed at reducing injuries and deaths on construction sites. This initiative relies heavily on pictograms to explain and clarify hazards and controls, thereby creating a wordless document where safety can be communicated to all workers regardless of literacy or language skills. The Safe System of Work Plan aims to focus on those in the construction industry who are most at risk and empowering them to ensure that all necessary safety controls are in place prior to the commencement of planned work. The plan will shortly be available in a number of different languages, including Turkish and Polish. The authority's Safe System of Work Plan, SSWP, for construction was recently awarded the innovation prize for good prevention practices in the construction industry by the International Social Security Association, ISSA, during the recent World Congress on Safety.

In 2004, the authority, in conjunction with Bord Glas, recognised the multicultural nature of the horticultural workforce, with the launch of The Essential Health and Safety Guide for Horticulture, which aims to promote health and safety awareness and accident prevention in the workplace. As a labour intensive industry, horticulture is an established employer of migrant workers and 30% of these originate from the accession states, including Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia and Poland. The guide is available in five different languages English, Latvian, Lithuanian, Polish and Russian.

The authority is currently considering submissions received on foot of the public consultation process for draft updated Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations and draft new Safety, Health and Welfare (General Application) Regulations. The latter proposals are designed to revoke and replace in a single text the remaining provisions of the General Application Regulations 1993 as well as seven full sets of other regulations made under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989, together with certain other provisions.

To fully implement the recently enacted 2005 Act, I have asked the board of the HSA to consult the social partners and other interested parties and to bring forward proposals as soon as possible to give effect to provisions in the Act in relation to on-the-spot fines, codes of practice for the various sectors where an employer has three or less employees, and the promotion of joint safety and health agreements between employees and employers in the various sectors. I have also secured the approval of the Department of Finance to increase the financial resources of the HSA by €1.75 million this year. This increase is mainly attributable to the extra activity of the authority under the new 2005 Act.

Workplace Fatalities by NACE Sector in 2005 (to date).
Sector	Number of Fatalities
Agriculture, Hunting, and Forestry	16
Mining and Quarrying	6
Manufacturing	7
Construction	22
Wholesale and Retail Trade; Repair of Motor Vehicles, Motorcycles and Personal and Household Goods	7
Transport, Storage and Communication	4
Real Estate, Renting and Business Activities	1
Public Administration and Defence; Compulsory Social Security	2
Other Community, Social and Personal Service Activities	1
Total	66

Workplace accidents for years 2000 to 2004.
	Number of OIB* claims accepted	Number of Employees	Rate per 100,000 employees
2000	11,995	1,355,600	885
2001	12,050	1,406,400	857
2002	12,280	1,440,000	852
2003	11,096	1,502,800	738
2004	11,705	1,835,900	638

2005 figures unavailable as yet.

*Occupational Injury Benefit claims under the Department of Social and Family Affairs.

Question No. 113 answered with QuestionNo. 92.

Community Employment Schemes.

Simon Coveney

Question:

114 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position of persons aged between 50 and 55 employed in community employment schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37873/05]

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

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.

Following a review of FÁS employment schemes — community employment, job initiative and social economy programmes — on 10 November 2004, I announced that the three year cap for participants on community employment was raised to six years for those over 55 in order to ensure the maintenance of essential community services particularly in rural areas, where it had been found that difficulties existed in finding replacement participants. Persons aged between 50 and 55 years normally leave the programme after three years. However, approximately 20% of participants, including persons less than 55 years of age, may benefit from an additional year on the programme under the flexibility guidelines introduced in August 2001. The increase should help to ensure that there will be sufficient people to fill the places on offer.

Work-Life Balance.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

115 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to reports of research indicating that job satisfaction has a particular influence on mental health; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that depression and anxiety are the most common reasons for absenteeism; if specific measures have been taken by his Department to alert employers to the need to tackle the issue of job dissatisfaction in order to avoid these consequences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37902/05]

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

I am not aware of the reports of research to which the Deputy refers nor is my Department carrying out research in this area. There are many factors which impinge both on job satisfaction and separately mental health. Equally there are a range of factors which impinge on depression, anxiety and absenteeism.

My Department and the Health and Safety Authority, HSA, actively promote the prevention of occupational stress at the workplace. Stress has a significant bearing on job satisfaction which influences wider health. Where there is a risk of stress in a workplace it is important that it is identified as such, assessed, and a strategy put in place to have it dealt with.

The HSA has recently established a steering group which is developing proposals for a strategy for managing occupational health. This will include issues such as work related stress and well-being of employees. Also, the HSA in partnership with the British Health and Safety Executive and Health Scotland have developed Work Positive, which is an audit tool with guidance material for in-house application. Work Positive is a comprehensive risk management tool that incorporates a risk assessment template covering the known causes of workplace stress. It provides a step-by-step guide to assessing risks of stress, outlining the aims of each step and thereby helping managers eliminate these risk factors in their organisation.

On a wider front, research has also been carried out in the context of work life balance and flexible working under the ESF funded EQUAL Community initiative, which is an EU-wide programme co-financed by the European Social Fund, ESF, and managed directly by my Department. One such project, the Work Life Balance Network has developed a toolkit for firms to address information deficits-awareness of work-life balance issues and to assist organisations to adapt policies and adopt new approaches. The toolkit has been piloted in some semi-State companies and disseminated through the national framework committee on work-life balance, which was established under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness and continued under Sustaining Progress on the recommendation of the social partners. Another project, the National Flexi-Work Partnership has published extensive research related to the specific needs of diverse groups in the workforce, including working parents and carers, older workers and those with mental health problems.

National Consumer Agency.

Mary Upton

Question:

116 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made to date in 2005 with regard to the establishment of the new National Consumer Agency; if the membership of the board of the agency has been finalised; the number of meetings held by the board to date in 2005; the number of full time staff the agency will have and the numbers appointed to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37887/05]

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

As I advised the House in previous replies to parliamentary questions on this matter, the core recommendation of the Consumer Strategy Group is that a new statutory body, the National Consumer Agency, be established to be an advocate on behalf of consumers. The Government fully approved this recommendation and has agreed to establish the new agency as soon as practicable.

The establishment of the NCA will require primary legislation. My Department has already commenced the necessary preliminary legislative and organisational work to ensure that the NCA is established as soon as possible. The Government has approved members to the National Consumer Agency to act in an interim capacity until such time as the agency is established on a statutory footing. The board, which is comprised of a chairperson and 12 other members, has held four meetings to date.

Given its non-statutory status, the interim board does not have any staff. However, it has the assistance of Forfás in carrying out its activities. Forfás has currently assigned 4.5 staff to assist the interim board. This number will increase considerably in 2006 to cater for the significant increase in activities which the interim board intends to undertake in the course of next year. In this regard the Deputy may be aware of the consumer awareness campaign initiated by the board yesterday and which will continue in the course of 2006 in order to raise consumer awareness about their rights and how to enforce them.

It is not possible at this stage to give a precise estimate as to what staff the NCA might have when it is formally established. It is the case, however, that one of the interim board's priority tasks is to prepare a detailed estimate of staffing, resource and budget requirements of a fully operational and statutory based National Consumer Agency.

I very much welcome the Government's decision to approve the establishment of a National Consumer Agency. I am certain the agency will have a key role in advocating the consumer case and in the development of future consumer policy. I am also of the view that the appointment of an interim board until the NCA is formally established is most important. The interim board will ensure that the momentum of the Consumer Strategy Group's report is maintained, that the consumer's voice will be heard and that the construction of a fully operational NCA can begin.

Industrial Development.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

117 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in view of the fact that IDA factories in County Mayo are being sold off as car showrooms and that west of Ireland manufacturing companies are being encouraged to move their business as far away as China, his views on whether manufacturing, fishing and agriculture are all in decline in the west of Ireland; his plans to improve this constantly deteriorating situation in the western region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37542/05]

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

I have nothing further to add to my previous answer to this question where I pointed out that I can only comment on that part of the question relating to my remit. The Government facilitates the creation of an environment attractive to businesses and business creation. Government policies in this regard have helped propel economic growth and employment expansion and these have encouraged deeper and stronger links to both the enlarging EU markets and internationally. Clearly, having an open economy has greatly assisted Ireland's economic development and has benefited the country. However, an open economy also presents threats especially where the country no longer operates as a low cost location for investment. Our strengths and competitive advantages have inexorably changed.

High output and productivity together with high returns to labour in the form of wages, salaries and better living standards now typify Ireland's economy. The low technology production that characterised our economic output in the past is being replaced by higher technology and services enterprises. A more attractive cost environment abroad will inevitably entice some firms that are unable to generate their required return from the modern enterprise economy into which we are transforming ourselves. A continuing structural evolution of our economy is both unavoidable and necessary to maintain present levels of growth and low unemployment. Part of this evolution entails some inevitable plant transfers and other adjustments, but where relocation has occurred to date, it has largely been limited to relatively low-technology, labour-intensive activities. It is imperative that our companies survive and grow. If high value functions such as research and development, design, marketing and management are retained in Ireland then outsourcing a low value activity, which has no hope of being profitable, is a viable business decision.

That is not to say that we can do nothing. The opposite is true — to counterbalance the competitive threat from lower wage competitor economies, our policy is to encourage a move to higher levels of productivity and value added products and services. We are continuing to develop those infrastructures, both physical and intellectual, to create and maintain an attractive environment for investment and expansion in Ireland. Such investment will be sourced by a combination of developing existing clients and new investors in existing or new activities or sectors. Given the critical mass of FDI in Ireland and its links with indigenous companies, one of the greatest potential contributions will come from developing companies already operating here. The enterprise development agencies have a clear mandate to align their operations around this policy objective and are continuing to encourage companies into more sophisticated activities, reducing the likelihood of our competitive advantage being eroded by cost based competition.

Enterprise Ireland will continue to work and co-operate with all agencies in the region on any initiatives deemed appropriate for the area. Enterprise Ireland has approved funding support of more than €22.3 million and paid more than €16.8 million to companies in the west region in the period 2003 to date. Of this, EI client companies in County Mayo have been approved funding of €2.6 million and received payments of €2.4 million. This financial support will enable the companies to fund their plans for innovation and new product development. As further support to client companies Enterprise Ireland has arranged for staff from each of its 33 overseas offices to be available both in Galway and Dublin in January 2006 to meet clients who wish to develop their exports.

The campus incubator units at the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology in both Castlebar and Galway together with the units at National University Ireland Galway received approval for capital grants of €5.45 million from Enterprise Ireland, together with grants of €0.314 million towards the cost of centre managers. The centres will serve the needs of the west region, with companies starting at these centres moving out in time to locate in other areas.

I am advised by IDA Ireland that it has not disposed of any factory buildings that are, or have been, used as car showrooms. IDA owned buildings are normally sold to clients on a freehold basis with a restricted use covenant attached. However, there are instances in County Mayo where IDA clients have, as part of their restructuring, sold their building which then was used as car showrooms such as the Volex building at Castlebar. This was constructed by Volex on a site it acquired from a third party and as such could be disposed of as it wished.

The enterprise development agencies are focusing attention on the elements of investment that now best fit Ireland's competitive characteristics and which will provide the maximum positive sustainable benefit to the economy at both a national and regional level.

Mergers and Acquisitions.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

118 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the implications for the Irish cable TV and Internet sector on the recent approval by the Competition Authority of the acquisition of NTL by Liberty Global; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34345/05]

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

The Competition Authority carried out a full competition assessment of this case and on 4 November 2005 determined that the acquisition would not substantially lessen competition provided the parties comply with the conditions set out in its determination.

As regards cable TV, the authority found no significant overlap between the merging parties' businesses as both Chorus and NTL serve different geographic regions. While certain competition concerns arose because of cross-ownership issues involving Chorus and BskyB, the matter was resolved to the satisfaction of the authority through the imposition of 19 conditions in its determination.

The acquisition should have a positive impact on the provision of broadband Internet access for consumers. This is welcome from a competition perspective where one provider continues to dominate the market for broadband and telephony services in the State and also where Ireland is ranked 19 out of the EU 25 in terms of broadband penetration.

National Consumer Agency.

Bernard Allen

Question:

119 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether the new National Consumer Agency, when it is put on a statutory footing should be represented at social partnership talks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37874/05]

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

The Consumer Strategy Group in its report, Make Consumers Count, which was published earlier this year, concluded that the consumer voice should be represented at the social partnership table. In this regard one of its specific recommendations is that social partnership should be expanded to include consumer representation on both the Government and voluntary sides.

My Department, given its statutory mandate for consumer protection policy, is already representing the consumer voice on the Government side at the social partnership table.

With regard to the voluntary side of social partnership, I understand from the Department of the Taoiseach that it would be open to the National Consumer Agency, once it is formally established, to apply to become a member of the community and voluntary pillar of the social partnership process. I am certain the NCA would have the necessary national focus, be sufficiently representative in its nature, have the required capacity to meet the obligations and demands arising from membership of the partnership process to ensure that its membership would add value to the process to deal with issues more effectively as required of those who seek to become members of the partnership process.

Employment Rights.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

120 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made to date in 2005 with regard to his consultations regarding the possible establishment of a joint labour committee to protect the interests of domestic workers, especially in view of evidence of exploitation of domestic workers from abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37885/05]

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

Section 36 of the Industrial Relations Act 1946 provides that an application for the establishment of a joint labour committee can be made to the Labour Court by me, as Minister, or a trade union or any organisation or group of persons claiming to be representative of relevant workers or of relevant employers. In consultation with the Labour Court and the Labour Relations Commission my Department is considering the practicalities of establishing a new JLC for domestic workers.

The Labour Relations Commission commissioned the University of Limerick to carry out a review of the JLC system in 2005. My Department has held bilateral discussions with relevant stakeholders regarding implementation of the recommendations contained in the review. The issue of a JLC for domestic workers is being considered in this context also.

Grocery Industry.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

121 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his Department’s estimate of the savings which will be made on an average family’s weekly shopping bill arising from his decision to abolish the groceries order; the timetable of when this saving will be achieved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37881/05]

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

My Department's recent report on the groceries order did not estimate the precise extent of savings that will accrue to the average family's weekly shopping bill following the Government's decision to abolish the groceries order. What my Department has said in essence is that, since 1987, the price of the average weekly shopping basket has been maintained at an artificially high level directly as a result of the groceries order.

The precise extent of any such price reductions will, ultimately, be a function of a variety of factors including the amount of off-invoice discounts available for transfer back to the invoice, the actual level of net margin obtaining in the retail trade currently, and the extent to which resulting competitive forces will drive efficiencies at all levels of the production and distribution chain. Other extraneous factors, including input costs and consumer demand, also impact on retail prices and make it difficult to isolate the impact of any one factor such as the groceries order.

On the other hand, the Competition Authority has indicated that the order is directly costing the average household up to €481 per year. I hope, however, that the impact of the resulting competition in the market following the revocation of the order will bring about decreases in the retail prices of goods covered by the order, although it may take time for such savings to filter through to consumers.

Question No. 122 answered with QuestionNo. 109.

Question No. 123 answered with QuestionNo. 88.

Child Care Sector.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

124 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in line with the Government’s stated commitment to child care, he will set about a reform of the child care industry whereby child care workers would have an entitlement to a career structure to include pay scales, pension rights, promotional and training structures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37921/05]

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

The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has responsibility for the EU Equal Opportunities Child Care Programme 2000-2006 and the Department of Health and Children has responsibility for the child care regulations under the Child Care Act 1991. Pay and conditions of employment beyond those provided for in employment rights legislation are matters which can be negotiated and agreed between employers and employees.

For certain sectors, joint labour committees, JLCs, set minimum rates of pay and conditions of employment for the workers involved. Joint labour committees are statutory bodies established under the Industrial Relations Acts 1946 to 2001. Each JLC is composed of representatives of employers and workers in the relevant sector. They agree terms and conditions to apply to specified workers in that sector. On foot of a proposal from a JLC the Labour Court makes an employment regulation order, which is statutory instrument setting out terms and conditions applying to specified workers in a particular sector.

A new JLC can be established by order of the Labour Court on receipt of an application. It is open to a trade union or any organisation or group of persons claiming to be representative of workers or employers in a sector to apply for the establishment of a joint labour committee.

Question No. 125 answered with QuestionNo. 112.

Community Employment Schemes.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

126 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons on community employment places at 1 January 2003, 1 January 2004, 1 January 2005 and the anticipated numbers at 31 December 2005; if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties faced by many community and voluntary groups due to the shortage of community employment places; if changes are planned with regard to eligibility to participate in the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37891/05]

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

The main purpose of the community employment programme is to provide work experience and training for the long-term unemployed and other disadvantaged groups to enable participants to advance successfully to employment in the open labour market. FÁS also endeavours to ensure that local communities are supported in the delivery of services particularly in the health, child care and the drugs task force areas, which have been ring-fenced with numbers maintained at the 2002 levels.

As I announced on 10 November last, FÁS employment programmes, which comprise community employment, social economy and job initiative, will provide 25,000 places overall in 2005. I am informed by FÁS that the number of participants on CE was 24,992 on 1 January 2003, 19,848 on 1 January 2004 and 22,194 on 1 January 2005. FÁS anticipates that the numbers on the scheme by year-end will be broadly in line with the January 2005 level.

The increase from three to six years in the period those aged over 55 may participate in CE, which I announced in November, should help to ensure there will be sufficient people available to fill the places on offer. There are no further changes planned regarding the eligibility criteria for the scheme.

Departmental Agencies.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

127 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons who have resigned as members of the Competition Authority within the past 15 months; the number of vacancies on the authority; the steps he is taking to have these vacancies filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37898/05]

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

Three members of the authority have resigned in the past 15 months; Mr. Terry Calvani, Dr. John Fingleton and Mr. Edward Henneberry. There are currently two vacancies on the authority. The Public Appointments Service has commenced a recruitment process in order to fill these vacancies as soon as possible. However, given that they are highly specialised and senior posts, this process involves executive searches to source suitably qualified candidates for competitive interview.

Regulatory Reform.

Enda Kenny

Question:

128 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether his Department should take a role in a system of regulatory impact assessments of new legislation before it is brought to the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37870/05]

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

The Government decided, in June of this year, to mainstream an updated model of regulatory impact analysis, RIA, across all Departments and offices to be applied to (1) all proposals for primary legislation involving changes to the regulatory framework, (2) significant statutory instruments, and (3) draft EU directives and significant EU regulations when they are published. Prior to that time, my Department participated in the piloting of RIA over 2004 and 2005 in our drafting of the Control of Exports Bill 2005.

Following the formal launch of RIA guidelines in October this year by the Department of the Taoiseach, my Department began the rollout of staff training on RIA. We remain committed to implementing RIA in full across my Department and its offices, in line with the Government Decision of June 2005.

Question No. 129 answered with QuestionNo. 109.

Departmental Agencies.

Simon Coveney

Question:

130 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether the Competition Authority is adequately funded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37866/05]

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

Since the enactment of the Competition Act 2002, the resources of the Competition Authority have virtually doubled. Earlier this year the authority set up a second mergers division following the Government agreeing to increase its 2005 budget by €500,000. The Government has since committed to increasing the authority's resources further in 2006 and funding has been secured for the doubling of its cartels' resources from seven officers to 14 officers. The cartels division is responsible for investigating serious anti-competitive practices prohibited by the Competition Act.

Trade Liberalisation.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

131 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position the Government has taken within European Union negotiations in advance of the non-agricultural market access talks due to take place in Hong Kong; his views on whether the arguments raised by development non-governmental organisations that the further removal of tariffs being proposed by the European Union and other developed countries will only lead to poor-country governments facing balance of payments problems, loss of tax revenue, downward pressure on workers’ conditions and rights and the undermining of their future industrial development prospects. [37931/05]

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

The declaration adopted at the fourth WTO ministerial meeting held in Doha, Qatar, in November 2001, provided for a new global round of multilateral trade negotiations aimed at liberalising trade across a broad spectrum. The declaration, called the Doha Development Agenda, DDA, provided that the negotiations should pay particular attention to the needs of developing countries. The Sixth World Trade Organisation Ministerial Conference will take place in Hong Kong on 13-18 December next and will consider progress to date in the DDA.

Ireland's priority in the DDA negotiations has been, and is, to see that the process of trade liberalisation continues in a fair and balanced manner and that the WTO continues to provide a stable and constant framework for the regulation of world trade. Central to our approach, and that of the EU, is a commitment to respond positively in the negotiations to the concerns of the developing countries. This is considered to be an essential part of the DDA. Ireland sees early and appropriate agreement on development issues as critical to the success of the DDA and to the positive impact that trade can have on reducing poverty in developing countries, particularly the least developed countries.

There is a strong development dimension to the core DDA negotiations on the reduction of industrial tariffs. Requests by the EU, to other WTO members, to make tariff reduction commitments are being modulated to reflect the level of development of the WTO member to whom the request is directed. The EU approach is not designed to disadvantage poorer developing countries. In the first place, the EU is proposing that there should be differentiated tariff reduction commitments between developed and developing countries. Additionally, poorer developing countries are being offered flexibilities such as less than formula cuts and-or increased periods for implementation. Least developed countries are not being asked to reduce their tariffs. This differentiated approach, and, in particular, that of non-reciprocation in the case of least developed countries, represents key elements of the EU's determination to deliver the development dimension of the DDA negotiations, which Ireland fully supports.

Jobs for People with Disabilities.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

132 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason so many disabled persons do not take part in ordinary FÁS courses in view of the initial decision to mainline the training of disabled persons, especially when statistical evidence reveals that participants of segregated courses are at a disadvantage in the labour market. [37925/05]

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

"Mainstreaming", as defined in the Report by the Commission for the Status of People with Disabilities, relates to the systematic integration of people with disabilities into the open labour market; by actively creating conditions whereby people with disabilities can compete and operate in the labour market on an equitable basis.

All FÁS vocational training is mainstreamed and people with disabilities have access to the widest possible training provision. This mainstream provision includes FÁS mainline training centre provision for people with disabilities who, with supports, can meet the particular training programme specification. However, because some people with disabilities may require additional training duration, adapted equipment, enhanced programme content and reduced trainer to trainee ratios and-or staff specially qualified in training people with disabilities, FÁS also provides specialist training provision by contracting with some 20 specialist training agencies to provide this type of training.

There is no statistical evidence of which I am aware in relation to training that identifies that trainees who successfully complete their courses and achieve certification are at a disadvantage in the open labour market. This includes all mainstream training whether provided in mainline FÁS training centres or by specialist training providers on their behalf.

EU Funding.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

133 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the nature of the over-claim of Ireland’s European Social Fund; and the person who was responsible for the irregularities that led to the withdrawal of €15.6 million by the European Commission. [37922/05]

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

Arising from audits by the European Commission in 2000, the Commission took a decision in February 2003 to reduce ESF aid to Ireland by €15.614 million in respect of three operational programmes from the 1994 to 1999 period, namely, the human resources development operational programme, the tourism operational programme and the industrial development operational programme. The sum involved represents less than 1% of the amount allocated to these programmes for the period.

Arising from the audits, the Commission alleged that the National Training Development Institute, NTDI, had not declared the total amount of national resources available for its operations and, as a consequence, the NTDI had overclaimed the contribution due from the ESF. The Commission also found that my Department, after applying the ECU conversion rate to expenditure declared in Irish pounds by various implementing bodies, carried out adjustments to the ECU amounts to maximise its ESF drawdown in respect of three programmes.

I should emphasise that the Commission accepts that all expenditure under the programmes in question was eligible and no allegation of fraud has been made. My Department has always believed that our approach in these matters was valid and that the expenditure was eligible for ESF co-financing. Our belief in the procedures was such that, supported by legal advice, we pursued this matter all the way to the European Court of Justice where, unfortunately, that court finally agreed with the Commission's technical arguments.

Proposed Legislation.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

134 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when legislation will be introduced to regulate management companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36596/05]

Eamon Ryan

Question:

277 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to regulate the operation of housing management companies. [38082/05]

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

288 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to regulate the operation of housing management companies. [36674/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 134, 277 and 288 together.

My sole departmental responsibility with regard to property management companies arises with regard to issues of company law. Property management companies are generally constituted as companies limited by guarantee under the Companies Acts and are required to comply with the relevant provisions of company law. The impact on property management companies of provisions other than company law, for example, contract law or interface with the relevant local authority, is not within my policy remit. The operation of companies under their relevant memorandum and articles of association is a matter for determination by the company members, who are the owners of the properties in question. If a member or creditor of such a company believes that a company law offence has been committed he or she should complain to the Director of Corporate Enforcement.

Drafting of the general scheme of a Bill to bring about a major simplification of company law, including simplification of the law applying to guarantee companies, is well in train at this stage and I hope to bring proposals to Government to draft the Bill proper early in 2006.

Public Holidays.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

135 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he intends to create new public holidays or to transfer existing public holidays to new dates; if assurance will be given that there will be no attempt to downgrade or transfer the existing May Day holiday; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37895/05]

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

I have no intention to create any new public holidays, to transfer existing public holidays to new dates or to downgrade or transfer the existing public holiday which falls on the first Monday in May.

Security Industry.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

136 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the use by employers of security companies established to deal with the threats from global terrorism to impose exploitative employment regimes which contradict existing employment agreements. [37914/05]

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

The regulation of security companies is governed by the Private Security Services Act 2004. The use of exploitative employment practices which contradict existing employment agreements would be unacceptable in a modern industrial relations environment.

EU Regulations.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

137 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the implications for Ireland of the decision of the European Parliament to vote in favour of the latest REACH proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36603/05]

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

The European Parliament and the Council are in the final stages of a proposal for the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals, REACH. The Parliament agreed its first reading opinion on REACH on 17 November 2005.

On registration, the Parliament agreed a compromise package of amendments which aims to target resources at the substances of highest concern. These amendments include lowered information requirements for existing substances manufactured or imported in the one to ten tonne range to minimise the risk of withdrawal of these vulnerable substances; so-called one substance one registration, OSOR, which will require manufacturers and importers of the same substance to register jointly, but with criteria included to allow separate registration for reasons of business confidentiality, for example; and more flexible provisions for exemption of substances used in research from registration.

On evaluation, the Parliament voted in favour of shifting more responsibility to the central agency which will lead to a more harmonised system across Europe. On authorisation, the Parliament has voted for a much stricter and more rigorous approach than in the Commission's original proposal. The substitution principle is much more strongly enforced which would mean that substances of high concern may only be authorised where suitable alternative substances or technologies do not exist.

The UK Presidency is aiming to achieve political agreement on a common position at the Competitiveness Council at its meeting on 13 December. My key objective is to ensure that the proposed REACH regulation secures as high a level of protection for human health and the environment as possible, while ensuring the efficient functioning of the internal market and the stimulation of innovation and competitiveness in the chemical industry.

Question No. 138 answered with QuestionNo. 109.

Departmental Strategy Statements.

John Gormley

Question:

139 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress which has been made to date in 2005 on the proposal to explore the potential for green consumerism as was suggested as an action to be undertaken in his Department’s sustainable development strategy 2003-05. [37929/05]

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

Green consumerism is about supporting sustainable consumer choices through ensuring the provision of accurate and credible social and environmental information on products and services, and is one of the objectives of my Department's sustainable development strategy.

To date in 2005, my Department has been considering the issue of green consumerism in the context of the EU environmental technologies action programme, ETAP. ETAP is a broad ranging programme which is designed to stimulate the development and uptake of environmental products and services. Raising consumer awareness is a key action in ETAP, with a particular emphasis on product labelling to ensure consumers have the necessary information to make informed choices. In addition to my Department's participation in the EU high level steering group for ETAP, and in the national ETAP stakeholder group, Enterprise Ireland recently participated in an ETAP seminar specifically targeted on raising business and consumer awareness of environmental products and services.

Another way in which my Department is seeking to promote green consumerism is by promoting the uptake of environmental management systems, EMSs, by SMEs through a multi-stakeholder working group which it has established. EMSs facilitate more informed consumer choice, as the EMS is a clear demonstration of a company's commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

I should also mention that the new National Consumer Agency, whose establishment has been approved by Government, will have specific statutory functions in the area of consumer education, awareness, information and advice so as to help ensure that the consumers are sufficiently empowered to make informed choices about the goods and services that they buy and use in their day to day lives.

Questions Nos. 140 and 141 answered with Question No. 75.

Departmental Correspondence.

Billy Timmins

Question:

142 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has had correspondence with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government or local authorities with respect to increases in rates for businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37544/05]

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

I have not been in correspondence with local authorities concerning this matter. My Department has referred any specific issues regarding this topic to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, who has overall responsibility for local authority funding.

Health and Safety Regulations.

Willie Penrose

Question:

143 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department has data indicating the extent to which radon is present in workplaces here; if an investigation has taken place into radon identification and remediation measures in the workplace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37903/05]

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

The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and regulations made thereunder, which are administered and enforced by the Health and Safety Authority, HSA, require employers to identify the hazards arising in the workplace, assess the risks arising from those hazards and put in place appropriate elimination or control measures. The HSA advises that in accordance with risk assessment requirements, all indoor workplaces in high radon areas located in basements or at ground level must have radon measurements carried out. The Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland is the national organisation with regulatory, monitoring and advisory responsibilities in matters pertaining to ionising radiation, including radon gas, that could be present at workplaces. The collection and analysis of data in relation to the extent of radon gas is therefore a matter for the institute.

The HSA has also, through seminars etc., informed employers located in areas likely to exceed the threshold limit value of their obligations under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 if the limit value in relation to radon gas is exceeded.

Departmental Programmes.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

144 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the transfer of duties from his Department to the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37859/05]

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

I have decided in consultation with the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, that responsibility for the social economy programme, which is operated by FÁS under the aegis my Department, should be transferred to the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, where it will be administered by Pobal, formerly ADM.

Question No. 145 answered with QuestionNo. 112.

Question No. 146 answered with QuestionNo. 84.

Question No. 147 answered with QuestionNo. 109.

Financial Regulation.

Shane McEntee

Question:

148 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether the audit level for small businesses should be raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37865/05]

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

The Deputy will be aware that audit exemption was first introduced in Ireland under the Companies (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1999 and came into effect in February 2000. A review of the limits was undertaken in 2003 and as a result of that review the turnover limit was increased to €1.5 million with effect from 1 July 2004. Statistics supplied by the Registrar of Companies shows that fewer than 5,000 companies availed of the audit exemption in the first ten months of this year. This represents around 3% of the total number of companies on the register of companies.

In line with Government policy, Better Regulation, it is appropriate that all regulatory requirements, including auditing requirements, should be kept under review in consultation with all relevant stakeholders. An ongoing reform and consolidation of the Companies Acts is well under way and it may be appropriate to address the audit exemption limit legislatively in that Bill.

Proposed Legislation.

Martin Ferris

Question:

149 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the legislation which his Department intends to bring forward in the next 12 months to improve workers rights. [37911/05]

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

We have a comprehensive body of employment rights legislation which has as its objective the protection of employees against arbitrary behaviour by employers, provision for the safety and health of workers and to foster labour market harmony by promoting policies that minimise conflict and maximise fairness. The full panoply of Irish employment law applies to all persons employed in Ireland, regardless of nationality. This body of law is and will continue to be enforced. In this regard the number of labour inspectors has recently been increased from 17 to 31. This will add significantly to the capacity of the labour inspectorate to ensure compliance with the law and to investigate complaints. In addition, I wish to outline a number of initiatives which are being undertaken at present and which focus specifically on the improvement of our employment rights framework, both in the short and medium term.

The employment rights compliance group consists of representatives of the social partners and several Departments. It is engaged in the consideration of 40 proposals contained in the report on the mandate and resources of the labour inspectorate and seeks to establish the degree of consensus which exists in respect of those proposals as well as a couple of others made by the social partners. This group is working towards the formulation of a thoroughly revised model of employment rights enforcement that will see redress mechanisms streamlined and a level competitive environment for those employers who are fully compliant with employment rights legislation.

An independent review of the joint labour committees was completed recently. Arising from this review and following bilateral consultations with social partners and stakeholders, my Department is now preparing a paper that will be used as the basis for implementation of the review in further consultation with the social partners and stakeholders.

The employment rights review group comprises representatives of several Departments, the employment rights bodies and the social partners. It pursues the Government's mandate to guide and drive the implementation of Government decisions on the role and functions of the employment rights bodies and to ensure the complexity of employment rights legislation does not impede understanding and compliance. The objectives of the exercise are to ensure streamlining of the roles of the employment rights bodies and simplification and consolidation of the corpus of employment rights legislation. It is expected that the work under way will feature in any forthcoming social partnership negotiations.

A major investment in education, particularly of migrant workers, and in the general dissemination of employment rights information is planned. This will consist of the strategic targeting of information at those who need it most. The delivery mechanisms and content will be formulated in consultation with social partners and others.

Employment rights compliance will be a feature in what may be the next round of social partnership and discussions with the social partners are well advanced, both in respect of the development of the legislative framework and the approach to adopt with regard to ensuring compliance. I am confident that an effective and more user-friendly structure will be achieved.

In addition, I am carrying out a review of the Employment Agency Act 1971. In June 2005, my Department issued a policy paper as part of this review and invited submissions to be made by 15 July 2005. A total of nine submissions were received. At present, my Department is examining the various matters raised by the respondents. It is my intention that, following further consultations with various interests and completion of the deliberative process, the heads of a Bill will be prepared and Government approval will be sought to have a Bill drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel to the Government. It is my intention that a Bill should be published in the first half of 2006. I believe the above initiatives, taken as a complete package, will improve workers' rights.

Departmental Organisation.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

150 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on proposals that his Department should be split into two separate Departments, namely, a Department of labour affairs and a Department of enterprise and trade. [37913/05]

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

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is structured in a way which recognises that enterprise and employment are not competing but, in fact, complementary factors. Calls for alternative configurations appear to stem from a flawed concept that places jobs and welfare at work in competition with enterprise. We have a different and more positive view — one that seeks to grow the quality and number of jobs by growing trade and enterprise. Only by growing our competitiveness, by increasing our trade performance and by expanding enterprise performance can we produce sustainable high quality jobs. Similarly, only by ensuring that we have a well trained and confident workforce, which enjoys the protection of our health and safety and employment rights legislation, can enterprise flourish.

Since 1993, when the Department was established in its current formation, we have seen jobs and real wages growing at unprecedented levels, we have introduced the national minimum wage and seen a significant improvement in the legislative framework protecting workers. The welfare of workers, especially those most exposed to low incomes, has been transformed during this period. However, this has also helped sustain, and be sustained by, a parallel and unprecedented improvement in trade and enterprise performance. Evidence, therefore, that our pro-enterprise and pro-jobs policies have made a real difference is incontrovertible.

While the factors supporting this transformation are manifold and social partnership clearly played its part, it is clear that the current configuration of my Department is right for Ireland and this was affirmed by Government following the previous general election.

Question No. 151 answered with QuestionNo. 109.

Labour Force.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

152 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of non-national workers required in 2006 to ensure all job vacancies are filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37871/05]

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

Economic migration policy is formulated within a context where the focus on meeting our skills needs is, first, on upskilling our resident workforce, second, on maximising the potential of European Economic Area nationals to fill our skills deficits and, third, with a new green card and revised work permit system, to meet those skill needs which cannot otherwise be addressed. The Central Statistics Office publication, Population and Labour Force Projections, estimates that Ireland will experience net inward migration of between 20,000 and 30,000 per annum between 2006 and 2011. Labour force demand will be a key determinant of migration over the projection period.

Question No. 153 answered with QuestionNo. 84.

Fur Industry.

Mary Upton

Question:

154 Dr. Upton asked the Taoiseach the value of exports from Irish mink farms for the years 2001 to 2005 inclusive; the value of the products of Irish mink farms to the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37642/05]

Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach (Mr. Kitt)

The latest relevant export data for the years 2001 to date is presented in the following table. The Central Statistics Office does not compile specific statistical data on the output from mink farms.

Table. *
2001	2002	2003	2004	Jan-Aug 2005 **
€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)
1,426	1,096	1,622	1,958	1,609

* The table is compiled from data available under three separate headings from the combined nomenclature trade classification of the EU.

These headings are as follows:—

(1) 4301 10 00 (whole raw furskins of mink, with or without heads, tail or paws).

(2) 4302 11 00 (tanned or dressed furskins of mink, with or without heads, tail or paws).

(3) 4302 30 21 (whole furskins of mink and pieces or cuttings thereof, assembled.)

** August 2005 is the latest month for which details have been published.

Dan Boyle

Question:

155 Mr. Boyle asked the Taoiseach the areas in which output from fur farms appeal in agricultural statistics compiled by his Department. [37460/05]

Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach (Mr. Kitt)

The CSO does not collect or compile statistics on the output from fur farms in its agricultural statistics.

Northern Ireland Issues.

Finian McGrath

Question:

156 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Taoiseach if all Northern elected representatives are invited to speak in the Houses of the Oireachtas. [37536/05]

The Taoiseach

The All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution felt that it could be particularly valuable from time to time to have the expertise and experience of Northern Ireland MPs, on a cross-community basis and with parity of esteem for the different communities in Northern Ireland, in Dáil deliberations at committee level with regard to Northern Ireland and the Good Friday Agreement. I wrote in some detail to all the Dáil party leaders on this matter on 26 October and I will be reflecting on their replies and how best this issue can be advanced.

This proposal would not involve speaking rights or Dáil privileges and is faithful to the all-party committee's recommendations. Ultimately, the question is one for this House and that is why I have written to the party leaders seeking their views.

Departmental Staff.

Bernard Allen

Question:

157 Mr. Allen asked the Taoiseach if members of staff at his Department were involved in the preparation of a document (details supplied) published by the National Forum on Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37537/05]

The Taoiseach

No members of staff at my Department were involved in the preparation of this document. The National Forum on Europe is an independent body. It would be, therefore, improper for members of my Department to be involved in the production of a document by the National Forum on Europe.

International Trade.

Dan Boyle

Question:

158 Mr. Boyle asked the Taoiseach the net value of exports and imports in the most recently available statistical year between this country and the 49 least developed countries in the world. [37946/05]

Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach (Mr. Kitt)

The information requested by the Deputy is presented in Table 1 which identifies Ireland's merchandise trade with the least developed countries, as defined by the UN-OHRLLS*, for the year 2004 and for the period January-August 2005. The year 2004 is the latest one for which annual data are available. For comparative purposes Table 2 identifies merchandise trade for the years 2001, 2002 and 2003. The countries are presented in alphabetic order.

Table 1.
	2004	Jan-Aug 2005
Ireland’s trade with	Exports	Imports	Trade Balance	Exports	Imports	Trade Balance
	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)
Afghanistan	2,265	172	2,093	1,165	841	324
Angola	7,030	11	7,019	3,805	6	3,799
Bangladesh	1,111	43,058	-41,947	987	24,411	-23,424
Benin	3,230	—	3,230	1,340	5	1,335
Bhutan	—	6	-6	—	—	—
Burkina Faso	866	362	504	856	1	855
Burma (Myanmar)	1,319	1,761	-442	2,604	176	2,428
Burundi	54	22	32	62	27	35
Cambodia	464	14,909	-14,445	653	7,069	-6,416
Cape Verde	505	18	487	863	3	860
Central African Rep	480	11	469	48	19	29
Chad	166	13	153	159	194	-35
Comoros	556	1	555	357	—	357
Congo (Dem Rep)	13,144	88	13,056	6,448	39	6,409
Djibouti	73	8	65	15	520	-505
Equatorial Guinea	37	86	-49	15	56	-41
Eritrea	12,653	53	12,600	61	684	-623
Ethiopia	6,185	113	6,072	5,239	217	5,022
Gambia	480	117	363	363	20	343
Guinea	1,088	70,255	-69,167	266	46,218	-45,952
Guinea-Bissau	18	—	18	—	—	—
Haiti	392	86	306	304	55	249
Kiribati	121	—	121	94	—	94
Laos	3,982	2,677	1,305	868	948	-80
Lesotho	19	—	19	—	1	-1
Liberia	4,679	1,490	3,189	7,458	297	7,161
Madagascar	46	204	-158	868	96	772
Malawi	4,167	488	3,679	3,670	168	3,502
Maldives	884	184	700	98	88	10
Mali	6,222	87	6,135	6,666	66	6,600
Mauritania	518	1	517	25	—	25
Mozambique	317	29	288	209	13	196
Nepal	58	94	-36	18	73	-55
Niger	178	1,448	-1,270	812	119	693
Rwanda	411	114	297	326	52	274
Samoa	—	10	-10	82	—	82
Sao Tome & Principe	117	3	114	5	—	5
Senegal	39,527	284	39,243	25,900	190	25,710
Sierra Leone	1,449	285	1,164	340	215	125
Solomon Islands	35	342	-307	33	433	-400
Somalia	34	28	6	37	6	31
Sudan	11,603	5	11,598	13,146	25	13,121
Tanzania United Rep	7,321	96	7,225	4,301	173	4,128
Timor-Leste	28	1	27	0	8	-8
Togo	3,061	306	2,755	2,522	1,589	933
Tuvalu	27	—	27	3	—	3
Uganda	3,348	113	3,235	2,094	54	2,040
Vanuatu	1	1	—	3	—	3
Yemen	2,344	84	2,260	1,329	2	1,327
Zambia	4,470	180	4,290	1,754	124	1,630

* The UN Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and the Small Island Developing States, UN-OHRLLS, http://www.un.org/special-rep/ohrlls/ldc/list.htm

Table 2.
	2003	2002	2001
Ireland’s trade with	Exports	Imports	Trade Balance	Exports	Imports	Trade Balance	Exports	Imports	Trade Balance
	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)	€(000)
Afghanistan	2,543	74	2,469	1,778	442	1,336	609	18	591
Angola	7,039	22	7,017	7,325	60	7,265	3,855	14	3,841
Bangladesh	491	33,614	-33,123	1,781	36,183	-34,402	3,053	39,022	-35,969
Benin	3,477	309	3,168	5,271	1	5,270	7,451	352	7,099
Bhutan	1	17	-16	249	33	216	1,031	1	1,030
Burkina Faso	746	3	743	1,330	4	1,326	1,822	114	1,708
Burma (Myanmar)	381	1,371	-990	1,295	1,134	161	1,518	2,099	-581
Burundi	151	5	146	407	8	399	488	1	487
Cambodia	715	13,341	-12,626	370	18,663	-18,293	175	15,988	-15,813
Cape Verde	120	99	21	84	1	83	162	10	152
Central African Rep	166	—	166	104	1	103	135	—	135
Chad	807	14	793	144	—	144	186	1	185
Comoros	192	—	192	—	1	-1	1,740	—	1,740
Congo (Dem Rep)	8,293	4	8,289	5,078	1	5,077	3,405	10	3,395
Djibouti	477	363	114	15	54	-39	125	26	99
Equatorial Guinea	183	1	182	23	—	23	1,364	188	1,176
Eritrea	134	71	63	1,822	95	1,727	10,837	76	10,761
Ethiopia	8,602	95	8,507	10,125	15	10,110	10,358	15	10,343
Gambia	563	57	506	519	118	401	842	276	566
Guinea	823	60,040	-59,217	868	83,358	-82,490	1,038	106,833	-105,795
Guinea-Bissau	—	39	-39	—	—	—	—	2	-2
Haiti	451	56	395	372	44	328	617	2	615
Kiribati	—	10	-10	—	—	—	—	—	—
Laos	1,009	1,562	-553	1,190	1,489	-299	933	1,317	-384
Lesotho	13	1	12	38	5	33	14	41	-27
Liberia	1,288	3	1,285	73	115	-42	624	15	609
Madagascar	218	3,887	-3,669	28	615	-587	87	1,826	-1,739
Malawi	1,527	935	592	1,902	898	1,004	1,061	950	111
Maldives	869	579	290	193	720	-527	750	375	375
Mali	3,033	121	2,912	12,860	920	11,940	7,504	405	7,099
Mauritania	298	11	287	526	11,595	-11,069	2,071	6,152	-4,081
Mozambique	135	14	121	545	525	20	1,503	114	1,389
Nepal	53	147	-94	55	211	-156	53	220	-167
Niger	743	550	193	392	594	-202	519	1,596	-1,077
Rwanda	378	230	148	408	39	369	565	435	130
Samoa	27	221	-194	5	1	4	11	—	11
Sao Tome & Principe	3	—	3	1	1	—	—	—	—
Senegal	35,521	256	35,265	38,935	77	38,858	40,692	171	40,521
Sierra Leone	1,362	411	951	3,832	765	3,067	4,612	2,001	2,611
Solomon Islands	—	261	-261	87	262	-175	—	618	-618
Somalia	33	21	12	143	1	142	303	176	127
Sudan	18,693	1,288	17,405	14,102	1,170	12,932	13,750	868	12,882
Tanzania United Rep	6,467	395	6,072	7,912	1,100	6,812	5,309	4,178	1,131
Timor-Leste	0	1	-1	—	—	—	—	—	—
Togo	3,346	413	2,933	2,000	1,736	264	1,213	183	1,030
Tuvalu	4	—	4	62	—	62	—	—	—
Uganda	4,227	67	4,160	4,691	170	4,521	4,127	469	3,658
Vanuatu	13	2	11	11	—	11	—	—	—
Yemen	3,030	54	2,976	3,985	61	3,924	9,624	44	9,580
Zambia	5,379	356	5,023	4,213	585	3,628	3,139	571	2,568

Foreign Adoptions.

David Stanton

Question:

159 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of foreign adoptions in the past five years; the countries of origin of the children concerned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37659/05]

David Stanton

Question:

160 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the average time it takes for a person who wishes to adopt a child from an outside country to be assessed; the procedures involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37660/05]

David Stanton

Question:

161 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the countries with which the State has an adoption agreement; her plans to make further agreements with other countries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37661/05]

David Stanton

Question:

162 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the age restrictions placed on couples who wish to adopt children from outside the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37662/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 159 to 162, inclusive, together.

The most recent statistics available on intercountry adoption are contained in the Adoption Board annual report of 2004. The number of adoptions entered in the register of foreign adoptions and in respect of which applications for an adoption order were made under the Adoption Acts, 1952 and 1988 are as follows:

Country	2000	2001	2002	2003	2004
Belarus	5	11	27	39	56
Bosnia & Herzegovina	0	0	0	0	1
Brazil	0	0	0	0	1
Bulgaria	2	1	1	0	0
China	16	16	51	56	60
Colombia	0	3	1	1	0
Ethiopia	4	0	2	7	16
Guatemala	13	15	18	11	17
India	3	0	1	2	4
Kazakhstan	23	19	23	17	9
Kenya	0	1	0	0	0
Malawi	0	0	0	0	1
Mexico	2	1	1	3	3
Morocco	0	0	1	0	0
Paraguay	0	1	0	2	0
Philippines	3	0	1	2	2
Romania	69	48	13	8	2
Russia	65	45	107	139	189
Taiwan	0	3	1	1	1
Texas	0	0	0	1	0
Thailand	9	5	15	16	8
Ukraine	2	0	12	14	12
Vietnam	9	10	81	39	16
Zimbabwe	0	0	1	0	0
Total	225	179	357	358	398

Applications for intercountry adoption are processed by the Health Service Executive, HSE, under the Adoption Acts 1952-1998, as amended by the Health Act 2004. The length of time it takes to complete the necessary assessment and the allocation of resources within the HSE is a matter for the management of the HSE. My Department's latest figures for intercountry adoption statistics relate to the third quarter ended 30 September, 2005. At that time figures show that the average duration of assessment — the time from beginning of preparation stage to date of decision by placement committee — was 10.2 months.

The process of assessment of applicants for intercountry assessment is set out in a framework for intercountry assessment introduces in 1999 to streamline assessments and to provide a transparent system centred on the child's best interests. It involves a number of stages and would generally include an initial assessment, a considerable level of education and preparation work, including an exploration with prospective adoptive parents of the challenges and issues that are likely to arise when undertaking adoption, and a home study assessment. The length of the assessment process can vary between applicants depending on the particular circumstances of each case, bearing in mind at all times the best interests of the child. Applicants found to be suitable to be adoptive parents are granted a declaration of suitability by the Adoption Board, and may then pursue the adoption of a child abroad with the selected sending country. It should be noted that difficulties may arise in sending countries that can also cause delay.

The Adoption Board has bilateral adoption agreements with China, Belarus, Romania, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines. Belarus and Romania have, however, ceased intercountry adoption. A draft revised protocol between Ireland and Belarus is before the Attorney General for his advices. The board is also actively pursuing the issue of an adoption agreement with the Russian Federation. It is important to note, however, that it is not possible at this stage to confirm either a timeframe for the completion of the negotiations or whether or not such negotiations will result in a successful outcome.

The heads of the Adoption (Hague Convention, Adoption Authority and Miscellaneous) Bill which, when enacted will ratify the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption 1993, are being drafted into a Bill in the Parliamentary Counsel's office. I hope that the Bill will be published in the earlier part of 2006.

An upper age limit of 50 years of age for people who wish to be assessed for intercountry adoption is one of the proposed provisions in the new bill being drafted. This age limit would apply to sole applicants and to the younger of a couple at the time they apply to be assessed for intercountry adoption.

Health Services.

Joe Higgins

Question:

163 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if suitable housing and support services will be provided as part of a dedicated aftercare plan for young persons leaving care. [38079/05]

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

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.

Tribunals of Inquiry.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

164 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the findings of the Madden inquiry will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37558/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

In May 2005 Government appointed Dr. Deirdre Madden to produce a report on post mortem practice and organ retention by 21 December, 2005. I understand that Dr. Madden will meet this deadline. Subject to legal advice I intend to have the report published.

Jobs for People with Disabilities.

Finian McGrath

Question:

165 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if assistance will be given to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9 with a disability in getting employment as part of the 3% quota for persons with disabilities; and if this person will be given the maximum support. [37559/05]

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

Policy on employment of persons with a disability is a matter for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I understand that FÁS operates a number of schemes to assist people with disabilities in obtaining employment and the person concerned should contact his local FÁS office for further details.

Assisted Human Reproduction.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

166 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement on the contents of a letter (details supplied) in relation to issues concerning the report of the commission on assisted human reproduction. [37560/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Commission on Assisted Human Reproduction was established in March 2000. Its terms of reference were to prepare a report on the possible approaches to the regulation of all aspects of assisted human reproduction and the social, ethical and legal factors to be taken into account in determining public policy in this area. The commission was comprised of persons with expert knowledge spanning the medical, scientific, social and legal domains. This expertise was a prerequisite to a precise examination of the issues concerned. In addition, the chair invited a number of additional experts with complementary expertise in specific areas to join work groups. These groups were established to explore particular aspects of assisted human reproduction, AHR. They included experts and academics from sociology, philosophy, ecumenism and theology. The commission was independent throughout in carrying out its work.

The commission has conducted an intensive and analytical examination of AHR issues and its conclusions derive from this wide research. Its report was prepared after 23 meetings. It also consulted widely and sought submissions from the public. The commission's report was published on 12 of May last and as I indicated at the time, the Government decided to refer the report to the Joint Committee on Health and Children. This will allow for further public and political consideration of the complex issues involved.

Health Services.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

167 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if funding will be made available to meet the concerns of Dublin 12 domestic violence service (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37561/05]

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

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 Allen

Question:

168 Mr. Allen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a person (details supplied) in County Cork who has been waiting since early 2005 for a recliner chair. [37562/05]

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

Health Services.

As part of the Estimates for health services in 2006, additional funding of €3 million is being allocated specifically for the further development of neurology and neurophysiology services. The additional funding will allow the Health Service Executive to progress further the implementation of the Comhairle recommendations in respect of this service.

In regard to the specific issues raised by the Deputy, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the HSE to have these matters investigated and to reply to the Deputy directly.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Pat Breen

Question:

179 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Question No. 211 of 2 November 2005, when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will receive an ear and throat appointment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37621/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I understand that the Health Service Executive has been in touch with the Deputy in relation to this case. I have been advised that the Health Service Executive will respond further to the Deputy in the next few days.

Hospital Services.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

180 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a CT scanner will be provided at Portlaoise General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37622/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

181 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the community care areas of the Health Service Executive northern area where a vacancy exists for a community doctor and in each case the length of time the position has remained vacant; the number of children who have missed out on a development screening due to the fact that there was no community doctor available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37632/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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 Costello

Question:

182 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding the need for adequate funding for essential services for victims of domestic violence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37633/05]

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

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy. The responsibility for the provision of refuges lies with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

Community Care.

Finian McGrath

Question:

183 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a proper community home will be found for a person (details supplied). [37646/05]

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

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.

Paddy McHugh

Question:

184 Mr. McHugh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if there was a clause in the contract for the purchase of the Bon Secours property in Tuam prohibiting its use as a site for a future health facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37672/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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 considering new capital proposals or progressing those in the health capital programme.

In regard to the specific matter raised by the Deputy, my Department has checked with the Health Service Executive and the executive has confirmed that there are no restrictive conditions or covenants attached to the transfer of the Bon Secours site to the former Western Health Board that would inhibit the use of the property for the provision of health services.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

185 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the contract of sale entered into between the Bon Secours Sisters (details supplied) and the former Western Health Board included a clause which prohibited the new owners from engaging in the provision of health services to the local community; if there are other clauses inserted into the contract; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37677/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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 considering new capital proposals or progressing those in the health capital programme.

In regard to the specific matter raised by the Deputy, my Department has checked with the Health Service Executive and the executive has confirmed that there are no restrictive conditions or covenants attached to the transfer of the Bon Secours site to the former Western Health Board that would inhibit the use of the property for the provision of health services.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

A number of stand-alone psychiatric hospitals continue to accept acute admissions. In line with Government policy, the admission units at these hospitals will be replaced by acute psychiatric units located in general hospitals over the coming years.

Medicinal Products.

John Gormley

Question:

190 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on whether all information leaflets regarding herbal products should contain the possible side effects of taking these products; the steps she intends to take to ensure this situation happens; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37752/05]

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

European Council Directive 2004/24/EC provides for a system of registration for herbal medicinal products and includes a mechanism by which the conditions of use, dosage, labelling, etc. of these products can be taken into consideration in the course of their registration. This will ensure that these products are of an appropriate quality and safe for use. The new system will require that all known adverse effects should be mentioned in the package leaflet. Directive 2004/24/EC is part of a package of European pharmaceutical legislation which will be implemented in Ireland in 2006.

The Irish Medicines Board is the statutory body responsible for regulating medicinal products in Ireland. It will administer the system of registration provided for in the directive and will ensure that the appropriate information is included when these products are registered.

John Gormley

Question:

191 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the research which is being carried out here into the benefits of the Buteyko breathing method as a safe, natural asthma management technique which can be used in conjunction with medication if required; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37753/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I have had this matter examined and on consulting the Health Research Board, I have been informed that there has not to date been any HRB funded research in Ireland on breathing techniques for asthma. A small number of trials have been carried out outside this country looking at the efficacy of breathing techniques for asthma. No reliable conclusions can be drawn concerning the use of breathing techniques for asthma in clinical practice.

The use of any treatment modality in any area of medical practice is a matter for individual practitioners based on best practice as reflected in the peer-reviewed research literature, standards and guidance provided by professional bodies and practitioners' own individual experience. The Department would not be in a position to advocate the use of any particular programme of treatment in the complex and difficult area of asthma management.

Care of the Elderly.

Liz McManus

Question:

192 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of long-term community beds at present for elderly persons; the number provided since 1997; the breakdown of the figures per county; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37757/05]

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

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 193, 197 and 198 together.

The Government is committed to exploring fully the scope for the private sector to provide additional capacity in the health system. The key objective is to provide the required extra capacity, whether this is in the public or private sector. In July this year, my Department issued a policy direction to the Health Service Executive which is aimed at freeing up additional beds for public patients in public hospitals through the development of private hospital facilities on public hospital sites. The initiative will provide up to 1,000 additional beds for public patients over the next five years. Private developers will be responsible for the construction of the private hospitals and public capital funding will not be provided.

Attached to the policy direction was an assessment framework which the HSE has been requested to follow in regard to proposals to locate private hospital facilities on public hospital sites. It requires that the evaluation should have regard to a detailed assessment of need, and existing and planned capacity on a particular site and within the relevant region. It should also provide for a rigorous value for money assessment of any proposal which would take account of the value of the public site and the cost of any capital allowances. In addition, it makes clear the need for adherence to public procurement law and best practice.

The Health Service Executive has been asked to develop an implementation plan to progress this initiative.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Denis Naughten

Question:

194 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will receive an audiology appointment; the reason for the ongoing delays; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37781/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Richard Bruton

Question:

195 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the status of the plans to move Temple Street children’s hospital to a new location; the reason for the delay in proceeding with these plans; the overall cost of the project, and the additional capacity which will be provided and the resultant additional staffing requirements; and the date when the project will commence and complete. [37800/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Under the Health Act 2004, the Health Service Executive has responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for capital developments in public hospitals.

The Mater and children's hospital development is the largest single capital development project in the HSE capital programme. It involves the redevelopment of the Mater campus to include considerably expanded and improved facilities for the Mater itself, and the construction of new, purpose-built accommodation which will replace the Children's University Hospital, Temple Street. The revenue costs and scope of the project are being examined by the Health Service Executive.

Health Services.

Enda Kenny

Question:

196 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the level of dental health fitness obtained by primary school children when leaving school; if resources allow for best services to be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37820/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The management and delivery of health and personal social services are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Child health examinations are provided by health boards to children attending national school in accordance with section 66 of the Health Act 1970. Section 67 of the Health Act 1970 provides for dental treatment and appliances to be made available by the Health Services Executive in respect of defects noticed at an examination under the service mentioned in section 66.

Section 1 of the Health (Amendment) Act 1994 provides that the Health Service Executive shall make dental services available without charge, for children who have attended a national school or a school standing specified in an order under section 66(3) of the Health Act 1970. The 1994 Act also provides for the specification of the services to be provided and the ages of children who are to be eligible for such services. The regulations made under this Act — the Health (Dental Services for Children) Regulations 2000 — specified that 15 years of age is specified for the purposes of section 1(1) of the Act of 1994 and the following dental health services are specified for the purposes of section 1(1) of the Act of 1994: a dental health screening service; a preventive dental treatment service, and a primary care dental treatment service in respect of defects noted during a screening examination carried out under paragraph (a) of this regulation.

My Department commissioned a survey of children's oral health in 2002. The report of this survey is due to be published shortly. Preliminary results of the survey indicate that children's oral health has improved significantly since 1984. The number of decayed, missing or filled teeth, DMFT, in children has decreased significantly over the period. For example, the survey shows that for children of 12 years of age and who live in fully fluoridated areas the DMFT score has dropped from 2.6 in 1984 to 1.1 in 2002. The survey shows that for children of 12 years of age and who live in non-fluoridated areas the DMFT score has dropped from 3.3 in 1984 to 1.3 in 2002. In addition, the survey shows that 53.5% of 12 year old children living in fully fluoridated areas are completely caries free and 48.7% of 12 year olds living in non-fluoridated areas are caries free.

Questions Nos. 197 and 198 answered with Question No. 193.

Independent Inquiries.

Dan Neville

Question:

199 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if an independent inquiry will be established into the death of a person (details supplied) at the Mid-Western Regional Hospital, Limerick. [37943/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

First, I wish to convey my deepest sympathy to the family of the deceased. I have made inquiries of the Health Service Executive mid-western area and I have been advised that the hospital is examining the circumstances surrounding the death of the person in question. I understand that the hospital staff have been, and will continue to keep, in contact with the family of the deceased.

Health Services.

Dan Boyle

Question:

200 Mr. Boyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if positions have been approved and are being filled in relation to the treatment of childhood diabetes in the southern region of the Health Service Executive. [37944/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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.

The estimate does not take into account any fee increases which would apply under the terms of the Labour Relations Commission's recommendation of 20 June 2005 or any additional costs which might result from future industrial relations negotiations.

Drugs Payment Scheme.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

211 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason vitamin B12 was removed from the drugs refund scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38043/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Vitamin B12 was removed from the common list of reimbursable drugs and medicines as the manufacturers of the product advised my Department that due to problems in the manufacturing process it had become temporarily unavailable both in Ireland and the UK. I have had inquiries made in the matter and I understand that there is an alternative product available in community pharmacies for people who have been prescribed the original product.

Medical Cards.

Liz McManus

Question:

212 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the cost of providing general practitioner only cards for persons under five years of age; the cost of providing general practitioner only cards for children under ten; and the cost of providing general practitioner only cards to all school going children. [38044/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

On the basis of the figures provided by the Health Service Executive, shared services, primary care reimbursement service, formerly the General Medical Services (Payments) Board, for 2004, the estimated cost of providing GP visit cards for persons under five years of age is approximately €56 million. The estimated cost of providing GP visit cards for persons under ten years of age is approximately €108 million. The estimated cost of providing GP visit cards to all persons in first and second-level education is approximately €154 million. These estimates do not take into account fee increases applicable under the terms of the Labour Relations Commission's recommendation of 20 June 2005 or any additional costs which might result from future industrial relations negotiations.

Hospital Visiting Policy.

James Breen

Question:

213 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if strict regulations will be introduced on visiting hours at hospitals and nursing homes and if not more than two visitors per day will be allowed to visit a patient as this could reduce the spread of the MRSA superbug; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38073/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

As the Deputy will be aware this issue was raised at our recent meeting with families and victims of MRSA. Unrestricted visiting in hospitals can cause difficulties for hospital staff and for the proper enforcement of infection control measures. There are, of course, exceptions that must be made, particularly for seriously ill patients and children.

I understand that the Health Service Executive is developing a guidance document for hospitals regarding hospital visiting policies. This document is under consideration by a HSE working group on infection control and cleaning standards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to reply to the Deputy directly in relation to the present position in this regard.

Denis Naughten

Question:

217 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the practice of developing health centres in conjunction with pharmacies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38192/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The provision of modern, well-equipped, accessible premises will be central to the effective functioning of primary care teams and networks. It is therefore necessary to facilitate and encourage the development, where appropriate, of modern, well-equipped, user-friendly buildings in which the broad range of primary care services, including general practice, can be delivered.

To ensure that appropriate facilities are developed on the required scale, resources other than those of the Exchequer will be required and this is line with the historic practice, whereby there has been a mix of public and private facilities provision, with, for example, general practitioners in many cases funding their own practice premises. In this regard, the primary care strategy emphasises the need to gain full benefit from existing buildings and to fully explore opportunities for private investment and public-private partnerships in implementing the development programme. The Government is committed to developing policy in such a way as to encourage innovative approaches to the provision of primary care facilities and services in line with the objectives of the primary care strategy. The Health (Community Pharmacy Contractor Agreement) Regulations 1996, which were revoked by my predecessor in January 2002 following advice from the Office of the Attorney General, set out the criteria and procedures for granting community pharmacy contracts in the HSE areas. The effect of the revocation, for the awarding of new community pharmacy contracts, is that there are no restrictions on granting new community pharmacy contracts in terms of location, population or viability of existing pharmacies. The revocation did not affect the operation of the community pharmacy scheme, and existing contracts at that time remained in place. The opening or establishment of all new pharmacies continues to be governed by the Pharmacy Acts, subject to restrictions imposed by non-pharmacy legislation such as the Planning Act.

The Government has accepted the recommendation of the pharmacy review group that there be no beneficial interest between prescribing and dispensing. Currently, a community pharmacy contract may not be awarded to a pharmacy in which a GP practising in the area has a beneficial interest.

Proposed Legislation.

Denis Naughten

Question:

218 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she intends to publish the two pharmacy Bills; if she intends to implement the recommendations of the pharmacy review group that their should be no business relationship between dispensing and prescribing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38193/05]

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Government has accepted the recommendation of the pharmacy review group that there be no beneficial interest between prescribing and dispensing. A Government decision was taken in June 2005 to introduce new pharmacy legislation. The legislation will take the form of two Bills. The first will remove the "derogation" on EU-EEA qualified pharmacists, introduce fitness to practice regulations and give an appropriate statutory basis for the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland. It will also address the problems with the current adjudication route for registration of pharmacists. I intend to have the first Bill introduced as soon as possible.

This ongoing investment in multi-disciplinary support services for persons with disabilities, including those with mental illness, together with specific initiatives to be taken in the area of recruitment, will assist the process of building capacity within these services in a very significant manner.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

223 Ms C. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of children who are on waiting lists for speech therapy, language therapy, occupational therapy and psychological services throughout the country; the way in which she intends to ensure that all of these children receive the services they require; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38248/05]

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

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.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

224 Ms C. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason speech therapy, language therapy, occupational therapy and psychological services are not being provided by the Health Service Executive for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38249/05]

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

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.

Question No. 225 answered with QuestionNo. 221.

EU Directives.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

226 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance his views on the proposal that EU public procurement legislation should include design for all and accessibility requirements in the provisions on technical specifications of tendering documents; and the steps he has taken in relation to this issue. [37576/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

EU public procurement directives were reviewed recently. Revised directives were adopted and published by the Commission in April 2004. The revision adapts the regime to modern conditions. The new directives promote and facilitate the implementation of design for all and accessibility requirements in accordance with national policy and legislation. Legislation put in place by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform includes provisions on design for all and accessibility which must be observed by all contracting authorities.

Tax Yield.

Mary Upton

Question:

227 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Finance the amount of money which was paid in taxes by Irish mink farms in the years 2001-05 inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37641/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that statistics are not available which would enable the information requested by the Deputy to be provided. Mink farms are classified within the same economic sector with a wide range of other activities and services and could not be separately identified without conducting a protracted investigation of the Revenue Commissioners' records.

Departmental Contracts.

James Breen

Question:

228 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Finance if all contracts awarded by the Government and local authorities will oblige the successful tenderers to employ at least one marginalised person and former offender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37765/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

Public procurement legislation allows contracting authorities to set out conditions to be observed in the performance of public contracts, provided that such conditions are compatible with EU Community law and are indicated in the tendering and contract documentation. These can include certain social conditions. The conditions to be prescribed are a matter for individual contracting authorities. Having regard to the diverse range of contracts for works, supplies and services placed across all public sector organisations it would not be appropriate or practicable for the Minister for Finance to impose a standard contract condition of the type suggested.

Tax Code.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

229 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied with the degree to which bodies awarded charitable tax exemption by the Revenue Commissioners are invigilated by the State in view of information regarding one such body (details supplied) in Dublin 7 which is apparently still in good standing with the Revenue Commissioners, notwithstanding information given to Dáil Éireann in the course of an Adjournment debate on 9 March 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37822/05]

Trevor Sargent

Question:

230 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance his views regarding a body (details supplied) in Dublin 7 promoting itself as having charitable status and being a registered charity, neither of which are currently available in Irish law on the basis of having secured charitable exemption in tax law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37823/05]

Trevor Sargent

Question:

240 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance his views regarding the Revenue Commissioners to review the charitable tax exemption enjoyed by a body (details supplied) in Dublin 7 in view of information given to Dáil Éireann in the course of an Adjournment debate on 9 March 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37821/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 229, 230 and 240 together.

The position is that charitable tax exemption is provided for under section 207 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. To be eligible for charitable tax exemption a body must be established solely for charitable purposes and the exemption applies only in so far as the funds are applied for charitable purposes.

The administration of the scheme is the responsibility of the Revenue Commissioners and it is not their practice to comment on the tax affairs of individual bodies. However, the Revenue Commissioners have informed me that they have appropriate procedures in place toward ensuring that each body that applies for charitable tax exemption meets the necessary criteria before the exemption is granted. Bodies which are granted charitable tax exemption are also subject to periodic review with a view to ensuring their continued compliance with the terms of the exemption.

Being granted charitable tax exemption does not mean that the charity has charitable status other than for tax purposes or is a registered charity. As the Deputy will be aware, there is no register of charities in the State at present. I understand that legislation to regulate the charities sector is being prepared, as a priority, by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.

Decentralisation Programme.

Seamus Healy

Question:

231 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Finance if the contract for purchase of the site earmarked for decentralisation in Tipperary town has been signed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38108/05]

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

The Commissioners of Public Works have informed me that they have signed the contract for the purchase of the site earmarked for decentralisation in Tipperary town and that they expect the sale to close shortly.

Economic Policy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

232 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if the Government’s high wage economic policy driven by high property values is likely to be sustainable in the future having regard to likely interest rate increases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38216/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I do not accept the contention in the Deputy's question. All commentators agree that Ireland has a sustainable potential growth rate of close to 5%. This potential growth rate is not materially affected by the increase in interest rates referred to.

Tax Code.

John Perry

Question:

233 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Finance if the liability of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo will be waived or reduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37566/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, for the purpose of capital gains tax, the date of disposal is the date of the contract unless the contract is conditional, in which event the time of disposal is the time when the conditions are satisfied. In the case of the person in question, he disposed of property by way of contract dated 2 December 2003 without any special conditions that would alter that date. I am further advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the capital gains tax on this disposal became due and payable on or before 31 January 2004. Payment of this liability was not made, however, until 29 November 2004 and, accordingly, the Revenue Commissioners had to charge interest in this case in accordance with the legislation.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

234 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance if an exemption form for a capital acquisition tax form will be accepted; if a person (details supplied) in County Waterford is exempt from capital acquisition tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37618/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that this may be a situation where dwelling house relief under section 151 of the Finance Act 2000 applies. This section provides that gifts or inheritances of a dwelling-house taken on or after 1 December 1999, will be exempt from capital acquisitions tax provided that the following conditions are complied with: the recipient must have occupied the dwelling house continuously as his or her only or main residence for a period of three years prior to the date of the gift or inheritance; the recipient must not at the date of the gift or inheritance be beneficially entitled to any other dwelling-house or to any interest in any other dwelling house; the recipient must continue, except where such recipient was aged 55 years at the date of the gift or inheritance or has died, to occupy that dwelling-house as his or her only or main residence for a period of six years commencing on the date of the gift or inheritance.

In accordance with section 46(2) of the Capital Acquisitions Tax Consolidation Act 2003, a return must be delivered before a capital acquisitions tax or CAT exemption can be granted. Where a CAT exemption is being claimed, the donor's personal details are required, to include where possible an Irish PPS number. However, with regard to this particular case, the Revenue Commissioners have advised that they will process the tax return without this number.

Secret Service.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

235 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance the reason behind the large increase in funding for the Secret Service in next year’s Estimates; if it indicates that the threat to the State has increased in recent times; if the service is responsible for monitoring suspected al-Qaeda members here and if the service employs persons who can speak or write Arabic. [37674/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

The Estimate for the Secret Service as published in the Revised Estimates for public services for 2005 was €786,000 and the Estimate for 2006 is €806,000, an increase of 2.5%. It is not the practice to divulge information or explanations relating to expenditure on this Vote.

Decentralisation Programme.

Enda Kenny

Question:

236 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Finance the amount spent on the Government’s decentralisation programme to date in 2005; the expected final cost of this programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37762/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

When the Government's decentralisation programme was first announced, it was stated that the overall objective would be to ensure that property being acquired at a regional level is matched as closely as possible, both in time and in cost terms, by the disposal of property currently held in the Dublin region, whether held on lease or otherwise. In November 2004 the implementation group prepared a report, which was subsequently published, on the procurement methodology and financial assessment of the property aspects of the programme, including a financial model, based on a property finance study carried out by the Office of Public Works. While the prevailing property market conditions in each area will have a bearing on cost, this model indicates that the break even position in relation to property will be reached in about 20 years.

In terms of actual outlay to date, the total amount committed in principle by the OPW on site acquisition costs, excluding VAT, is approximately €35.7 million. Expenditure to date this year is €8.1 million and overall expenditure since the start of the programme is in the region of €8.3 million. The overall site acquisition cost of the entire decentralisation programme is expected to be in the region of €75 million to €100 million, excluding VAT.

As part of the OPW's ongoing programme of transforming State assets, the amount recouped to date through land and building disposal is €128 million. In addition, the Deputy will be aware of the recent disposal of the former veterinary college in Ballsbridge, though the receipts in respect of this disposal may not be lodged in the Exchequer by the end of this financial year.

In relation to the non-property costs of the programme, the decentralisation programme is being implemented on a voluntary basis, so as on previous occasions, the payment of removal or relocation expenses will not arise. A study was commissioned by the decentralisation implementation group which provides a model for identifying non-property costs and savings that arise both during the relocation phase and in the context of a post-decentralised Civil Service. Decentralising organisations have been asked to use this model to make periodic reports identifying non-property costs incurred and savings made both since the programme was announced and in its implementation in the future.

Garda Stations.

Seán Haughey

Question:

237 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works have plans to refurbish and renovate Coolock Garda station in Dublin 5; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37786/05]

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

The Commissioners of Public Works have not received any request from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to refurbish and renovate Coolock Garda station in Dublin 5.

Tax Code.

Richard Bruton

Question:

238 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the number of taxpayers in 2006; the number who will be on unchanged credits or bands, be exempt, pay at the marginal rate, pay at 20% rate and pay at 42% rate. [37803/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I assume the Deputy is seeking the estimated number of income earners projected to be in each category on the tax record in the event that there are no income tax changes in the forthcoming budget. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the numbers are as follows:

Numbers of Income Earners Pre-Budget 2006*.
Exempt	Marginal Relief	Standard Rate	Higher Rate	Total
686,070	18,660	608,770	748,870	2,062,370
33.3%	0.9%	29.5%	36.3%

*Provisional and likely to be revised.

It should be noted that a married couple who has elected or has been deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit. The numbers of income earners above have been rounded to the nearest ten as appropriate.

Jack Wall

Question:

239 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be furnished with a P21 statement for 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37811/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a PAYE balancing statement or P.21 for the year 2004 will issue to the taxpayer in the coming days. There is no record of previous correspondence relating to this matter prior to the receipt of the request from the Deputy.

Following the public exhibition of the flood relief proposals for Clonmel, which showed the project broken into three separate schemes, namely Clonmel west, Clonmel north and Clonmel east, a large number of observations were received. These observations have now been considered and replies have issued detailing any minor changes to the proposals. Site investigations are currently being carried out and it is hoped to have a report completed early in 2006. It is also intended to commence detailed design of the Clonmel west scheme once the site investigations are complete.

The tender process to procure a works contractor is expected to occur in the spring or early summer with a view to commencing construction in the autumn of 2006. However, the Office of Public Works and our engineering consultants are investigating the possibility of undertaking some aspects of the Clonmel west scheme some months in advance of the main works. The programme envisages the Clonmel west scheme being completed in mid-2008 which would then allow the Clonmel north scheme to commence with all three schemes being completed in a five to six year period. All the proposals outlined above are dependent on the necessary funding being available and on the approval of the Department of Finance to proceed.

Pension Provisions.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

249 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Finance when he expects to receive the report of the working group on possible changes to public service spouses’ and children’s schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38183/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

In 2001, the Commission on Public Service Pensions, which had been set up by the Government to examine all aspects of public service pensions, presented a comprehensive reform package in its final report. In September 2001, the Government accepted the thrust of the commission's report, and the period since then has been marked by the progressive implementation, in consultation with the public service unions, of individual commission recommendations.

In September 2004, following discussions with ICTU, the Government ratified an agreed approach to the remaining recommendations of the commission. These were aimed at reforming public service pensions in terms of provision for low-income groups, flexibility and modernisation. As part of this approach the Government mandated further study of a number of the commission's recommendations, including the feasibility of implementing four specific recommendations in relation to public service spouses' and children's schemes. These, in summary, are: recommendation No. 29, public service spouses' and children's schemes should be modified to allow payment of a survivor's pension to a financially dependent partner in certain circumstances and a system for the nomination of partners put in place; recommendation No. 30, the provision which requires a spouse's pension to cease on grounds of remarriage or cohabitation should be removed; recommendation No. 32, where a dependent child is orphaned and both parents are members of the same spouses' and children's scheme, two children's pensions should be payable; and recommendation No. 33, an appropriate system for nomination of death gratuity should be introduced into public service pension schemes.

A joint union-management working group was established in January of this year to examine each of the above recommendations and report to the Minister for Finance on the implementation of same. The working group comprises representatives from various Departments, ICTU public services committee and Garda and Permanent Defence Forces representative associations. The group has met on a number of occasions to date and there have also been a number of bilateral meetings with various Departments and private sector pension scheme experts. An interim report was completed in July 2005. A draft final report is currently being considered by the group and it is expected that this will be finalised in the near future for submission to me.

Tax Code.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

250 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the percentage of tax revenue which is raised from indirect taxes. [38184/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

In 2004, revenue from indirect taxes, or excise and VAT, accounted for 44.12% of total tax revenue. In 2005, to end November, indirect taxes accounted for 44.79%.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

251 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance if there are exemptions from capital gains tax for persons with a disability (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38185/05]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that on the basis of the information supplied it appears the specific capital gains tax exemptions in place for persons with disabilities is not applicable in the circumstances of the taxpayer in question. These exemptions relate mainly to gains arising on assets acquired from the investment of compensation payments, for example, personal injury claims, hepatitis C etc.

By way of general information, relief from capital gains tax is available where an individual, aged 55 years or over, sells his or her business assets. It applies where assets have been owned for at least ten years, ending on the date of sale, and have been business assets throughout that period. Full relief is available where the proceeds from the disposal do not exceed €500,000; otherwise, marginal relief may apply. I am also advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they are prepared to extend the relief where an individual is unable to continue in business due to severe or chronic ill health and sells his or her business assets within 12 months of his or her 55th birthday.

The Deputy should contact the Revenue Commissioners if he would like further details on the availability of the relief in this case.

Decentralisation Programme.

Joe Walsh

Question:

252 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Finance if he will honour a commitment given to Dáil Éireann on the Adjournment on 12 October 2005 that he would invite tenders for decentralised offices at Clonakilty, County Cork before the end of November 2005. [38246/05]

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

The Commissioners for Public Works have advised that tenders were invited for the decentralised office at Clonakilty on Friday, 2 December 2005.

Telecommunications Services.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

253 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the recommendation of People with Disabilities in Ireland that EU legislation in the field of electronic communications require, on a mandatory basis, the provision of accessible services and equipment and that rigorous measures are put in place to monitor the implementation; if sanctions will be imposed where no effort is being taken to achieve these aims; and the steps he has taken in regard to this demand. [37575/05]

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

I have no function in regulating telecommunications services for disabled users. The regulation of telecommunications operators, including regulating of telecommunications services for disabled users, is the responsibility of the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in accordance with the requirements of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the regulations which transpose the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications Networks and Services.

EU Funding.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

254 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the proposals made for Irish transport projects under the EU’s Marco Polo programme; the projects that received funding; the amount in each case; the progress to date in 2005 in completing these projects; the amount of freight diverted from road as a result of these projects; the overall percentage split for freight on road, rail and water following the completion of these projects; the way in which this compares with previous percentage splits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37936/05]

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

The Irish Maritime Development Office provides strategic support and advice in regard to the Marco Polo programme. On 11 October 2003, the first call for Marco Polo proposals was published. A total of four Irish projects were submitted and deemed eligible under that call. These were applications from Eucon, Dublin Port Company, Shannon Foynes Port Company and Euroferries. Eucon's project was the only project selected and recommended for funding.

The second call for Marco Polo proposals was published on 15 October 2004. A total of four projects with Irish partners were submitted and deemed eligible for funding. The Irish partners were Shannon Foynes Port Company, Rosslare Europort, Euroferries, and Port of Cork Company. None of the proposals was selected for funding. The third call under the Marco Polo programme was published on 24 November 2005. The closing date for this call is 30 January 2006.

The Eucon proposal is the only Irish transport project, to date, to successfully finalise contract negotiations under the EU Marco Polo programme. The total amount of subsidy awarded by the Commission for the project was €1 million. The main objective of the project is to convert at least 10% of the ro-ro landbridge traffic moving on and off the island of Ireland to the lo-lo mode. By routing such traffic through the ports of Antwerp and Rotterdam, in particular, road haulage into Belgium and Germany will be reduced, by obviating the need to route traffic through the relatively remote Port of Calais. The estimated modal shift, generated over the life of the Eucon project is 1,180,015,020 tonne kilometres, tkm. In the context of the Marco Polo programme, this modal shift equates to environmental benefits in the region of €18,118,675.

Given that the modal shift produced by the Eucon project affects only United Kingdom and European roads, a change in modal split in Ireland will not occur as a direct result of the project. The existing modal split is expected to remain the same. The substantial environmental benefits accruing from the Eucon project will benefit Ireland's European partners.

EU Directives.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

255 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he intends to promote the revision of the EU’s Television without Frontiers Directive given that it does not make provisions for persons with sensory disabilities (details supplied). [37582/05]

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

The review by the European Commission of the Television Without Frontiers Directive is ongoing and the Commission's proposals for a revision of the directive are not expected until 2006. Until such time as the Commission has made a formal proposal for a revision of the directive, it would be premature to address the matters raised by the Deputy.

Decentralisation Programme.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

256 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the status of plans to relocate the staff of the Marine Emergency Co-ordination Centre in Dublin to Valentia or Malin; and his views on the advisability of such a course of action. [37586/05]

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

Irish Coast Guard management continues to examine all issues relating to the operation of two control centres, including establishing what measures will be necessary to effect a smooth transfer from Dublin while ensuring that full co-ordination capability is maintained at all time. I am aware of concerns expressed by staff in regard to the transfer and can assure the Deputy that they will be kept fully informed of developments.

The decision to transfer the services of the Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre from Dublin was taken on foot of a study of the Irish Coast Guard undertaken by independent consultants. Communications technology today is such that the geographical location of the co-ordination centres is less important now than in the past. This approach will have the effect of achieving significant cost savings, thus enabling other elements of the Irish Coast Guard service to be developed, which in turn will lead to further improvements in our marine emergency response services nationally.

The capability of the Irish Coast Guard to co-ordinate and manage incidents will not be diminished as a result of relocation away from Dublin. I also stress that the decision will not affect the emergency response resources that are available on the ground to the Dublin region and the east coast.

Fishing Vessel Decommissioning Scheme.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

257 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if a decision has been made in regard to the application of persons (details supplied) in County Wexford for compensation under the recently formulated fisheries decommissioning scheme; if there will be further rounds of this scheme; if the applicant is being considered on hardship grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37686/05]

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

The deadline for receipt of applications for the fishing vessel decommissioning scheme was 1 November. Following the first phase of the approvals process, letters of offer have now issued to those applicants who met the mandatory eligibility criteria, in line with EU rules, and who opted to decommission their vessels in the first round. Approvals in respect of the planned second and third tranches will issue during 2006.

The applicants referred to by the Deputy have been advised by BIM, as the implementing authority for the scheme, that their application did not meet the mandatory eligibility criteria on its initial assessment. The applicants have also been advised that their application is being reviewed, and they have been given the opportunity to supply any further supporting data regarding eligibility.

Maritime Safety.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

258 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of complaints (details supplied) he has received; the investigations and actions which were taken as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37789/05]

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

The maritime safety directorate, MSD, of the Department is, among other things, the national authority with responsibility for the promotion, regulation and enforcement of maritime safety. It has an ongoing safety programme involving an appropriate combination of statutory regulation, enforcement and safety awareness promotion with the aim of achieving the highest level of safety at sea, including on fishing vessels and pleasure craft.

The enforcement of regulations governing the safety of vessels is carried out by the staff of the directorate, which undertakes a variety of control measures, including detailed vessel surveys and unannounced operational inspections. Licence conditions relating to manning levels, maximum passenger numbers allowed and the continued availability of safety equipment are among the issues the inspectors focus on. Vessels found in breach of licensing conditions are detained until the reasons for detention have been rectified.

During 2005, action was taken by surveyors of the MSD in regard to four specific maritime safety incidents in County Wexford. Of the two complaints received in regard to passenger boats, one related to the grounding of a yacht and the other was in respect of a fishing vessel that was found to be in an unsafe condition and was subsequently detained. I understand there is also an independent marine casualty investigation ongoing in regard to the recent drowning at Cullenstown. Concerns were also raised about the use of leisure power craft, jet skis, in the Slaney estuary which can now be addressed by the local authority in accordance with the provisions of the Maritime Safety Act 2005.

All complaints, sometime anonymous, which are brought to the attention of the MSD alleging unlicensed or illegal operation of passenger vessels or licensed vessels in breach of their licence conditions are followed up as part of that office's work programme.

Post Office Network.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

259 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his Department’s policy in regard to the closure of post offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37940/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

260 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number and location of post offices closed in the past 12 months; the extent to which he was consulted or asked to be advised in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37941/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

261 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has issued directives or intends to do so with reference to the closure of sub-post offices at any particular location throughout the country; if he has been consulted in this regard; if he has issued directives in regard to future policy on post office closures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37942/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 259 to 261, inclusive, together.

The closure of post offices is, in the first instance, an operational matter for the board and management of An Post and one in which I have no statutory function. As an operational matter, the issue of post office closures is not one which the company consults with me.

As clearly set out in the programme for Government, the Government and the board of An Post are committed to the objective of securing a viable and sustainable nationwide post office network and the challenge for all stakeholders in An Post is to generate sufficient profitable business to maintain the network at its current size. The An Post network comprises the single largest number of retail outlets in the country. In the European context, Ireland still has the highest number of post offices per head of population. In recent years some network restructuring has been undertaken. This activity is in line with similar trends across Europe. In addition to the post office network, An Post has also established 2,864 PostPoint outlets in retail premises of which 600 can be used for bill payment.

Specifically, in regard to the closure of post offices or sub-post offices, it is only when a suitable candidate for a vacancy cannot be found or where there are no applicants, that a post office is closed. I understand that during the 12 months to 1 December 2005, 30 post offices closed and were replaced with postal agencies providing core post office services including social welfare payments and the sale of stamps. In the same period, a further 17 post offices closed and no longer provide a service because no suitable applications were received in the company following advertisement campaigns for these contracts. In these instances, customers were re-directed to other post offices in the local vicinities. The above closures and conversions occurred countrywide except in counties Kerry, Tipperary, Louth and Carlow.

Judicial Investigations.

Joe Costello

Question:

262 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) who is serving a sentence for murder in prison in England; if he has made formal inquiries with his British counterpart in regard to the case; if his attention has further been drawn to developments in the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37748/05]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

This case continues to be monitored by my Department through the Irish Embassy in London. The embassy remains in contact with the person himself and with the prison authorities on his behalf. I am also aware that since his trial the person concerned has stated that he was pressured by his legal team on the day of his trial to change his earlier plea of innocent to one of guilty, and that he was informed that if he did not do so he would receive 30 years without parole. He also stated that forensic evidence exists which, if examined, would exonerate him and that, he would be found innocent in a retrial. As I have indicated previously, I understand that the person's solicitor is still seeking appropriate grounds on which either to lodge an appeal against conviction or to seek to have the case reinvestigated.

An independent body in Britain, the Criminal Cases Review Commission, has the power to review, and supervise investigations into possible miscarriages of justice. It is my understanding however that, unless there are exceptional circumstances, the commission is not empowered to consider cases where the normal court appeal system has not been exhausted. As will be appreciated, the person's legal representative is best placed to advise him on the options which might be available with regard to appeal procedures in the British judicial system.

I can assure the Deputy that my Department will be very happy to continue to provide all appropriate consular assistance and support to the person concerned and to his family.

International Terrorism.

Richard Bruton

Question:

263 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has assessed the recent report by a person suggesting that Ireland could be regarded as a legitimate target for al-Qaeda; if he has assessed this threat; if he has sought to clarify the nature of the Government’s position in regard to the use of Shannon Airport to representatives of the Muslim community; and if he will make a statement on Ireland’s efforts to seek a resolution to the difficult issues in Iraq through international co-operation. [37572/05]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

Security threat assessments on the risk level to Ireland of terrorist attack are furnished by the Garda authorities at regular intervals to my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, who briefs the Government as appropriate. The Garda authorities maintain an up-to-date assessment of the threat of attack from international terrorist groupings through analysis of intelligence gathered from domestic and international sources.

On numerous occasions I have set out Government policy on the use of Shannon Airport by the US military. It is important that the public, including the Muslim community, are aware of the Government's position, and I am satisfied that this is the case. The use of Shannon is a long standing arrangement which has been in place for more than 50 years and which has been extensively discussed in, and is supported by, Dáil Éireann. The presence of international forces in Iraq has been mandated by a succession of UN Security Council resolutions, most recently renewed in UN Resolution 1637 of 8 November last. Resolution 1546 of June 2004 requested member states to provide assistance to these forces.

The Government has maintained the strong view from the outset that the international community has an obligation to assist in the reconstruction of an independent, democratic and sovereign Iraqi Government, which can take responsibility for the stability and security of the country. We have been very clear that the central involvement of the United Nations would be essential to the success of these efforts.

This overall approach was embodied in Security Council Resolution 1546 of 8 June 2004, which set out a roadmap and timetable for the political reconstruction of Iraq. This process will approach completion with the holding of democratic elections on 15 December, under the new constitution which was approved by referendum in October. The Government has supported the process, both nationally and in cooperation with our EU partners. The EU has provided vital support for the political process, for the holding of democratic elections, for physical and economic reconstruction, and for the restoration of essential services. Bilaterally, Ireland has supported humanitarian relief, reconstruction of the education sector and assistance to the Marsh Arabs. Ireland has also contributed financially to the force established to protect UN operations in Iraq.

It is clear that the restoration of a sovereign Iraqi Government will not of itself solve all of Iraq's problems, in particular the continuing high level of violence directed at innocent civilians. Progress will depend on the establishment of effective Iraqi security forces and political action to reconcile the various communities in Iraq. The Government, and its EU partners, will continue to work in co-operation with the international community to support the efforts of the Iraqi people to rebuild a peaceful and prosperous society.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

264 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his position on the recommendation of people with disabilities in Ireland that accessibility criteria be attached to the disbursement of European funds such as structural funds and consideration of the disability dimension in general; if all components of funded projects will be fully accessible; if he is in agreement with the recommendation of the steps he has taken to promote same; and, if not, the reasons therefor. [37574/05]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The Departments with line responsibility for these matters — Finance and Justice, Equality and Law Reform — have been consulted. They have stated that they will consider any proposals made on this issue that are formally brought to their attention. It is my understanding that this has not been done to-date.

Traveller Community.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

265 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the special arrangements in place within his Department and at the point of service delivery to meet the needs of the Traveller community; and if his attention has been drawn to particular difficulties experienced by members of the Traveller community in accessing services. [37595/05]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

There are no special service arrangements in place in the Department of Foreign Affairs for members of the Traveller community. I am not aware of any Traveller having experienced difficulties in accessing the services we provide.

Departmental Staff.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

266 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 456 of 18 October 2005 if his Department expects to have the mechanism as recommended by the Labour Court in January 2001 implemented before the end of 2005. [37995/05]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

Workplace regulations are currently either being finalised or advanced in regard to a number of areas of local staff conditions of employment. As mentioned in my reply of 18 October to the Deputy, the protections afforded by the Civil Service anti-harassment, sexual harassment and bullying policy, A Positive Working Environment, are being extended to all unestablished employees at diplomatic missions overseas. A circular to this effect will be issued before the end of the year. In addition to the above grievance procedures, it is also intended to introduce a local staff disciplinary code in all missions by the end of 2005. The purpose of this code is to ensure that locally recruited members of staff at missions abroad are dealt with in a fair and equitable manner in regard to disciplinary matters. A circular to this effect will issue later this month.

As regards the Labour Court's expression of concern that no formal mechanism exists for locally recruited staff in Irish missions abroad to pursue grievances with regard to pay, grade and related matters, the Department has been examining ways to introduce a more formal procedure, which would provide a framework for dealing with these issues. As I said in my reply of 18 October, the introduction of such a procedure raises certain legally complex questions. The Department is, therefore, actively conducting a wider review of all the issues in question, including best practice among other foreign ministries. It is hoped to be in a position to introduce a new procedure in all missions in 2006.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

267 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the steps he has taken to promote further progress by the EU on accessibility by disabled persons to cultural places, facilities and activities as a requirement of culture projects funded by the EU. [37577/05]

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

Since becoming Minister with responsibility for the arts, I have consistently maintained that the arts and culture are for everyone, and that a crucial element of maximising access is optimal access for people with disabilities. Accordingly, my Department applies this principle in the context of our participation at various EU fora in discussions on EU funding for cultural projects. Further, it is carried through in a practical way to our funding of cultural facilities, both where co-funded by the EU, and funded from the national Exchequer.

For example, the CDIS scheme, which commenced in 1994, provided grants for cultural infrastructure facilities, and was co-funded by the EU. It was a condition of the scheme that physical accessibility to all projects had to be ensured in the design of the facility. This requirement was deepened and made more specific in the subsequent ACCESS scheme, which from 2001 provided funding of €45.7 million for 44 arts and culture facilities throughout the country. It was a condition of the scheme that all projects would be accessible to people with disabilities both in terms of general access and their participation in the practice of arts and culture activity. This scheme was funded by the Exchequer.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 268 to 270, inclusive, and 272 to 275, inclusive, together.

The National Gallery of Ireland is a non-commercial statutory body. The statutory Board of Governors and Guardians of the National Gallery of Ireland is responsible for all operational matters in the gallery.

Sports Capital Programme.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

271 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he is in contact with South Dublin County Council in respect of the question of funding for the proposed Shamrock Rovers stadium at Tallaght; the position regarding same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38112/05]

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

My Department has provided support under the sports capital programme for the construction of a new stadium at Tallaght for Shamrock Rovers football club. Grants totalling €2.44 million were expended for this purpose over the period 2000-02. As the former owners of the club were unable to complete the project, South Dublin County Council intervened with the encouragement of my Department to regain control of the site. The shared objective of the Department and the County Council is to ensure the completion of the stadium as a municipal facility which would be made available on an agreed basis for use by Shamrock Rovers and discussions to that end are continuing.

I assure the Deputy my Department remains committed to the provision of quality stadium facilities for soccer at Tallaght and that when satisfied that a project which meets this objective has emerged, it stands ready to allocate support to it via the sports capital programme.

Questions Nos. 272 to 275, inclusive, answered with Question No. 268.

Question No. 276 answered with QuestionNo. 96.

Question No. 277 answered with QuestionNo. 134.

Job Creation.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

278 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position in relation to the regional task force for the north west and its plan; and if he will make a statement on the availability of funding for this region. [38177/05]

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

The recently established interdepartmental group on County Donegal, chaired by the Secretary General of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, has met on two occasions to date and further meetings are planned. The group's terms of reference are to identify the various local issues representing barriers to the establishment and operation of enterprises, to take stock of relevant projects and actions which are under way or planned, to identify measures which could be taken by the relevant Departments and agencies to support the environment for enterprise development and to quantify the resources which are needed. I have asked the group to report to me as a matter of urgency. When I have had an opportunity to consider its findings, I intend to bring them to the Government. The Donegal County Enterprise Board was allocated a budget of €1.097 million in 2005, but no specific allocations are made within IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland or FÁS for particular regions. The Deputy will be aware that I have asked the agencies to make particular efforts to support job creation in County Donegal.

Industrial Disputes.

Tony Gregory

Question:

279 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action he has taken to prevent the displacement of 550 Irish workers and their replacement with exploited labour by Irish Ferries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38103/05]

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

283 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will make a statement outlining his position on the country of origin principle included in the proposed directive for an internal market in services. [37579/05]

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

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

The issue of mandatory energy labelling for electrical goods comes within the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. I understand from the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources that energy-efficient labels are affixed to goods in the EU in response to a directive under the Single Market framework to equalise the playing field for such goods throughout the EU. Ireland's interest is in ensuring that the population of goods subject to that regime moves into the highest categories to allow users and the national economy to benefit from the reduced demand for energy on foot of savings in energy, energy bills and carbon dioxide emissions. The labels empower purchasers to select a higher level of efficiency when they buy new or replacement goods. There is no compulsion on purchasers to buy more efficient goods but the demand for less efficient appliances has reduced since the information first became available in this fashion in the EU. As the measure is intended for the equalisation of market conditions, it would be counter-productive for Ireland to take an individual stance and set different standards which could be seen by the European Commission as a non-tariff barrier.

EU directive 2005/32/EC, which was adopted in July 2005, establishes a framework for setting ecodesign requirements for energy-using products. The aim of the directive is to improve the environmental performance of such products by encouraging manufacturers to design products in an environmentally conscious manner, with a particular focus on making products more energy efficient, thus contributing to the security of energy supply. The directive seeks to ensure the free movement of such products, based on a coherent EU-wide framework that is designed to prevent market barriers. The framework directive in question provides that the Commission may adopt implementing measures on specific products by specifying environmental aspects and ecodesign requirements. It will be possible to place such products on the market if they comply with the agreed specified criteria. Conformity will be implemented using the existing CE conformity marking scheme. The directive applies to any product using energy to perform its function. Products with high carbon dioxide reduction potential are likely to be targeted first by the Commission in selecting products to be included in the implementing measures. Priority product groups likely to be targeted first include heating and lighting, electric motors, domestic and office appliances, consumer electronics and air conditioners. When the implementing measures have been adopted, they will lead to significant improvements in energy consumption and, therefore, carbon dioxide emissions associated with a wide range of energy-using products.

Question No. 288 answered with QuestionNo. 134.

Work Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

289 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of new work permits issued in the past 12 months; the number renewed and the number refused; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38214/05]

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

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment's work permits section issued 28,083 work permits in the 12 months up to 30 November 2005. Some 8,375 of the permits were new work permits and 19,708 of them were renewals. Some 1,380 work permit applications were refused.

Question No. 290 answered with QuestionNo. 90.

Questions Nos. 291 and 292 answered with Question No. 109.

Job Losses.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

293 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the countries to which Irish jobs have been relocated in the past three years; if the underlying causes have been identified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38219/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

300 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of manufacturing jobs lost through relocation to other economies in each of the past five years including the current year to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38228/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 293 and 300 together.

The Forfás employment survey tracks employment levels in agency-assisted companies on an annual basis. However, factors influencing a decision to relocate all or part of a firm's function are many, varied and complex. Many of these are outside the direct influence of Government policymakers and may include business takeovers or consolidations, changes in product or market focus, in addition to relative wage rates and other costs and incentives. Relocation is just one factor in the many enterprise-related issues that determine employment levels — the life cycle of companies also influences the ebb and flow of employment. Accordingly it is not possible to determine the employment change arising from relocation or indeed the destination countries for any such relocation.

Ireland no longer operates as a low cost location for investment. Our strengths and competitive advantages have inexorably changed. Ireland's economy is now characterised by high output and productivity, together with high returns to labour in the form of wages, salaries and better living standards. Low technology production, which dominated our economic output in the past, is being replaced by higher technology and services enterprises. Inevitably, more attractive cost environments abroad will entice some firms that are unable to generate their required return from the modern enterprise economy into which we are evolving.

A continuing structural transformation of our economy is both unavoidable and necessary to maintain present levels of growth and high employment. Part of this transformation entails some inevitable plant transfers and other adjustments, but where relocation has occurred to date, it has largely been confined to relatively low technology, labour-intensive activities.

To meet the challenge from lower cost competitor economies, our policy is to encourage companies' development to higher levels of competitiveness and value added products and services. Our priority is on the creation of sustainable employment. Such employment will be driven by companies that have higher profitability, are more technologically advanced and prove a better fit with the competitive characteristics of our economy. Such companies are consequently less likely to move on the basis of simple cost influences. We are continuing to develop those infrastructures, both physical and intellectual, to create and maintain an attractive environment for investment and expansion in Ireland. Such investment will be sourced by a combination of developing existing clients and new investors in existing or new activities or sectors. Given the critical mass of FDI in Ireland and its linkages with indigenous companies, one of the greatest potential contributions will ensue from the development of companies already operating here. The enterprise development agencies are continuing to encourage companies to undertake more sophisticated activities, reducing the likelihood of our competitive advantage being eroded by cost based competition.

Questions Nos. 294 and 295 answered with Question No. 90.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

296 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the alternative employment which has been provided for the former workforce at a factory (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38224/05]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

297 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to find alternative employment for the workforce of a business (details supplied) in County Kildare when the business relocates; the cause or causes for the relocation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38225/05]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 296 and 297 together.

As part of its operational responsibilities, FÁS engages closely with companies whose workers are made redundant. The agency assists affected workers to plan new careers, identify training needs and secure alternative employment. It also refers workers to training programmes and establishes special or customised programmes where necessary. In this regard, I understand that FÁS has been very actively involved with both of the companies in question.

The company in Naas announced a major restructuring and upgrading of its operations earlier this year. However, its commitment to Naas continues and this is evidenced by a new €4 million investment designed to ensure that the company becomes a centre of excellence for its core electro-chromic mirror product. While loss-making products have been moved away from Naas, I understand from IDA Ireland that the company has no further plans to relocate any of its operations at present.

Kildare continues to thrive across a broad range of activities in the housing, commercial, services and industrial sectors. As a result, many job opportunities are being created within the county. Some 25 IDA client companies are located in County Kildare employing 10,109 permanent staff. In 2004, significant developments in overseas investment were announced including multi-million euro investments in wafer fabrication and a technology development centre by Intel and Hewlett Packard respectively. The announcement last January by Green Isle Foods of a €22.6 million expansion investment, which is now under way, will lead to the creation of 130 additional jobs in Naas from a current base of 630. This project is supported by Enterprise Ireland and, employment in EI client companies in the county has increased by 46% over the past ten years, from 3,972 to 5,784. This growth is significantly better that the national average.

On 5 May last, I performed the official opening of the office of International Fund Services (Ireland) Limited at Naas, County Kildare. Located in Millennium Park, the Naas facility is on target to employ 140 people by the end of 2005 and 240 by the end of 2006. In September, I opened the first phase of a new €40 million business park in Athy. While it will be known as the Athy Business Campus, I expect that it will have positive implications for both Athy and the wider Kildare region.

Kildare has also benefited from a significant investment in technological infrastructure at the university in Maynooth. Particular efforts are being made to ensure that the university continues to develop strong links with industry. Over the past three years, more than €3.3 million has been approved to support innovation partnerships between industry and the college.

I am satisfied that the agencies under the aegis of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, together with local business interests, will continue to provide good quality training and employment in County Kildare.

Insurance Industry.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

298 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the way in which insurance costs here compare with those in other European jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38226/05]

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

The National Competitiveness Council, NCC, in its Annual Competitiveness Report 2005, found that of the 16 countries benchmarked, Irish expenditure on non-life insurance was the fourth highest. However, the NCC also found that the rate of growth in the cost of insurance has slowed down substantially in recent years. This can be attributed to the series of initiatives the Government has pushed through to reform the insurance sector. The action taken by Government to ensure healthy competition in the insurance sector had already seen benefits for consumers.

Sub-indices calculated from the all-items consumer price index at mid-October 2005 show that since the insurance reform programme began in October 2002, there has been a reduction of 23% in car insurance. The Personal Injuries Assessment Board, PIAB, which was one of the key initiatives of the Government's insurance reform programme, published its first annual report on 13 of September 2005. This shows that PIAB assessments to date have been delivered approximately three times faster and at a delivery charge four times cheaper than under the litigation system. As well as being a major benefit to victims of accidents this is a significant reduction in the cost to insurance companies for the delivery of compensation and hence facilitates reductions in insurance premia.

Supervision of insurance undertakings is the responsibility of the Financial Regulator, formerly known as the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority. The Financial Regulator has a wide regulatory remit covering consumer protection and prudential supervision of practically all of the financial services industry, including insurance, and the services provided by it. The Financial Regulator comes under the aegis of my colleague, the Minister for Finance.

Industrial Development.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

299 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the new markets which have opened for the manufacturing industry here; the markets closed, if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38227/05]

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

Ambitious Irish companies continue to win market position in a range of existing and new markets throughout the world. This is no easy task. Building market share is challenging but success in harnessing the extensive opportunities that exist will drive their future success. The developing global economy is creating new competitive challenges from places such as China and the Far East, India, and eastern Europe. However, these economies are increasingly becoming fast growing markets for the high-tech goods and services output of the Irish economy. Consequently, exploiting these fast growing major new markets has become a key factor in determining the continued success of the activities being carried out in Ireland.

In 2004 the value of Irish merchandise exports reached €84.3 billion. This represents a 2.6% rise from 2003 and a 26% rise from 1999. The sectoral composition of Irish exports remains highly concentrated, with 71.6% of total exports coming from just two sectors, chemicals, which includes organic chemicals and pharmaceuticals and machinery and transport goods, which include ICT products.

Pharmachem exports expanded 4.8% in 2004, and have witnessed dramatic growth over the past six years, expanding in aggregate by 77.6%. The sector containing ICT goods continued to decline in 2004 with exports falling by 2.8%. Computer products, accounting for €13.4 billion of exports, experienced a fall of 10% in 2004. Exports from food and beverages reached €7.1 billion in 2004, a rise of 3% from 2003 and 13% from 1999. Its share of total Irish merchandise exports stood at 8% in 2004, a drop of one percentage point from 1999. Meat exports rose 10.5% from 2003 to reach the €2 billion mark for the first time.

The USA remains Ireland's largest export market, taking 20% of Irish exports in 2004. Exports there fell by 2.2% from 2003 but have risen by 60% from 1999. The UK accounts for 18% of Irish exports and is a particularly important destination for food and beverage exports. Exports there rose by 1.9% from 2003 and by 3% from 1999. In 2004 14.6% of Irish exports went to Belgium, an increase of 258% from 1999. This is mainly due to Belgium becoming a European distribution centre for pharmaceutical companies based in Ireland. Exports to other euro zone countries have fallen by 6.4% since 1999.

With regard to exports to the rest of the world, exports to Pacific Rim countries grew strongly in 2004, with impressive increases in Australia, 14%; China, 9%; Japan, 11%; South Korea, 15%; Hong Kong, 21%; and Singapore, 18%. Decreases in exports to countries such as Malaysia, 23%; Mexico, 11%; and Sweden, 16%, showed steep year-on-year declines.

Work to expand Irish markets has included recent overseas trade missions and trade fairs to countries in Europe, North and South America, the Middle East, Australia and Asia. New market opportunities were targeted in China, Korea, Japan, Iran and the Gulf and New Zealand and Australia, leading to direct sales, partnering and distribution opportunities for client companies. Of particular significance was the trade mission to China last January, which was led by the Taoiseach. This was Ireland's largest ever trade mission involving a total of 121 companies in a range of sectors and led to contracts involving a sum of the order of €125.8 million.

Question No. 300 answered with QuestionNo. 293.

Employment Support Services.

David Stanton

Question:

301 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the initiatives his Department has in place to facilitate ex-prisoners in returning to the workforce; the supports and services available to them to enter employment; the success of these initiatives in enabling ex-prisoners to secure employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38229/05]

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

I understand from FÁS that ex-prisoners qualify for the full range of FÁS services and at any given time a number of ex-prisoners attending FÁS courses may not be identified as such.

In addition, the high support process has recently been extended to include ex-prisoners who would benefit from such support. The high support process is an inter-agency response for people who are remote from the labour market. The high support process has a flexible training fund for employment support of up to €2,500 per person, to purchase employment supports not readily available through mainstream providers.

FÁS and the probation and welfare service also collaborate on a number of justice workshops for youths at risk who may be ex-prisoners or ex-offenders. The aim is to prevent custodial sentences and rehabilitate ex-prisoners. At present there are 13 joint FÁS-probation and welfare justice workshops. Furthermore links are continuing between FÁS and the training and education officers of the linkage programme. The linkage programme was initiated in 2000 by the then Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. It is funded by the probation and welfare service to provide an access service to clients referred to the programme by the probation and welfare service for training, education and employment opportunities.

Time spent in prison counts as part of the eligibility period for the community employment and social economy programme and ex-offenders do not need to be on the live register at the time of recruitment.

FÁS is represented on the board of the Educational Trust, an all-Ireland body that funds the educational needs of ex-prisoners and their families, both North and South of the Border. FÁS is also a partner in the "You are Equal" project. The aim of this project is to enable participation in society in a positive way through removing barriers to employability and job readiness of prisoners and ex-prisoners. The project will support the group to get and keep employment. FÁS with other partner agencies in this project, including the Irish Prison Service and the probation and welfare service, recognises the need for a stronger and enhanced cross agency approach, which will lead to a more integrated approach to meeting such clients' needs. Ongoing contact continues between FÁS, the Prison Service, and the probation and welfare services in addressing the employment needs of ex-prisoners.

FÁS Training Programmes.

David Stanton

Question:

302 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the supports and services available to employers and employees who are seeking to upgrade their qualifications and skills with regard to the upskilling of the Irish workforce; when these supports and services were launched; the success of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38230/05]

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

As part of the "One Step Up" initiative implementing a key element of the Government's response to the enterprise strategy group's recommendations, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is funding a wide range of supports and services to raise the skill levels of those in employment. Over the period 2005 to 2007 funding for these supports and services will total over €150 million.

FÁS is using part of this funding to provide and facilitate targeted training programmes and services to employers and employees. The budget for these programmes for 2004 was €8.8 million. For 2005, this will be €35.6 million. Twenty projects for the use of these funds have been approved.

The training falls into four broad categories — basic skills provision specifically targeted at low skilled employees, for example, literacy support, contract cleaning; occupationally specific upskilling for operative and technical staff in individual sectors, for example, engineering, motor, food; management training for managers; and entrepreneurial development.

Skillnets Services Limited is also receiving funds from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to manage a networking programme that involves approximately 100 companies. It addresses general training needs, as well of those of particular economic sectors. The public budget for this training in 2005 is €7.5 million and, when allied to matching funds provided by the employers, total funding available is significantly more. Next year's budget will increase to €8 million and to €10 million in the years up to 2010. Skillnets is also managing the ACCEL, accelerated in-company skills, initiative on behalf of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. This has a public budget of €16 million over the next two years. Approximately 72 proposals for funding were received in response to a recent promotion, 25 of which are starting up now. The balance of those approved will commence in the spring.

Enterprise Ireland is also providing in-company training. Some 20 projects have been funded under its auspices since 2004. Approximately €6 million has been provided and the programme will run into 2007.

In addition to these initiatives, specific funding has been made available from the national training fund for dedicated training purposes. This includes support for the continuing professional development of engineers, for promotion and training in the ICT sector and for developing the range of skills required to work to greatest effect in the community and voluntary sector. There has never been such a concentration of public funds devoted to training and skills development for those in employment. The Government has been consistently generous in promoting the importance of continuing training to upskill those in employment.

Social Welfare Code.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

303 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on amending the situation where persons in receipt of a widow’s pension are restricted in accepting employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37532/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

Widow's or widower's non-contributory pension is a means tested payment payable to a widow or widower, without dependent children, whose income falls below a certain limit and who does not satisfy the contribution conditions for contributory widow or widower's payment. In assessing means for social assistance purposes, account is taken of any cash income the person or his or her spouse may have, together with the value of capital and property, except the home. Under current rules, weekly means of €7.60 per week are disregarded and all means in excess of that figure, including those from earnings from employment, are assessed in full. Any changes to the current provisions would fall to be considered in a budgetary context.

Grant Payments.

Michael Noonan

Question:

304 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the status of the application for respite grants for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37554/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The application for a respite care grant from the person to whom the Deputy refers was received in the Department of Social and Family Affairs on 24 November 2005. It is being processed and the Department of Social and Family Affairs hopes to be in a position to make a decision on it and inform the applicant of the outcome shortly.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

305 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the special arrangements in place within his Department and at the point of service delivery to meet the needs of the Traveller community; and if his attention has been drawn to particular difficulties experienced by members of the travelling community in accessing services. [37597/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

309 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will investigate the situation of job initiative workers who hold a deserted wife’s allowance and who are losing a portion of all of their deserted wife’s allowance due to the failure to increase the income disregard for eight budgets and who believe they are being treated very unfairly due to the income limit which is not applicable to deserted wife’s allowance recipients who claimed before 30 August 1992. [37629/05]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

310 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will examine the situation of a job initiative worker (details supplied) whose deserted wife’s benefit is being cut due to the operation of a very low income disregard for deserted wife’s benefit recipients after 30 August 1992; if this disregard will be increased to encourage women to be able to provide better for their families by taking up work. [37630/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 308 to 310, inclusive, together.

The job initiative programme is one of a number of FÁS schemes in which lone parents may participate. Under the programme full-time employment is provided in the social economy for individuals who are over 35 years and fulfil certain criteria. With effect from 1 January 2005, job initiative employees earn a minimum of €346.40 for their 39-hour week, which is substantially more than the national minimum wage. In addition to their basic income earned, job initiative employees with families may be entitled to family income supplement, a weekly payment for families, including one-parent families, at work on low pay. All employees working a minimum of 19 hours per week and with at least one qualifying child are entitled to apply, provided the family income is below the qualifying income limit. For the current year, qualifying income limits for families start at €446 per week for a family with one child and increase to €623 per week for families with eight or more children.

The Deputy is correct in that job initiative employees who were in receipt of deserted wife's benefit and whose initial claim for benefit was made after 30 August 1992 will lose entitlement to their social welfare payment from 1 January 2006 provided their employment income for 2005 is more than the upper income threshold of €17,776.33 per annum. This income limit in itself is higher than that currently enjoyed by recipients of the one parent family payment.

Social Insurance.

Richard Bruton

Question:

311 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his estimate of the revenue that will be raised in social insurance contributions from employers, employees and self-employed in 2006; and the way in which this compares with the projected outturn in 2005. [37801/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The revenue that will be raised in social insurance contributions from employers, employees and the self-employed in 2006 is estimated at €6,550 million, on a pre-budget basis. This represents an increase of €503 million on the 2005 projected outturn of €6,047 million which is due mainly to projected growth in earnings and employment levels in 2006.

The make-up of both years' figures, as between employers, employees and the self-employed, is set out in the following table:

	2006 Abridged Estimate	2005 Projected Outturn
	€ million	€ million
Employers	4,760	4,400
Employees	1,380	1,270
Self-employed	410	377
Totals	6,550	6,047

Social Welfare Benefits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

312 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the correct amount of rent support in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37905/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The Dublin and mid-Leinster area of the Health Service Executive, which administers the rent supplement scheme on my behalf, has advised that its appeals officer decided in early November 2005 to uphold the decision to award the person concerned rent supplement rate of €65.20 per month. This rate was based on her household circumstances as then known. However, as there were indications at the appeal hearing that her household composition may have changed, the executive wrote to the person concerned on 9 November 2005 seeking further details. She has not contacted the local community welfare officer yet with the information sought. When the information requested is received, her rent supplement rate will be reviewed.

Dan Boyle

Question:

313 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason free bus passes are made available to individuals at the age of 66 when normal retirement age is at 65. [37947/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The free travel scheme is available to all people living in the State aged 66 years or over. All carers in receipt of carer's allowance and carers of people in receipt of constant attendance or prescribed relative's allowance, regardless of their age, receive a free travel pass. It is also available to people under the age of 66 who are in receipt of certain disability type welfare payments, such as disability allowance, invalidity pension and blind person's pension.

The household benefits package of free schemes, including the free travel scheme, was introduced during the period from 1967 to 1977 for those in receipt of old age pension from this Department. In the period 1973 to 1977 the age at which a person became eligible for old age pensions was progressively reduced from age 70 to age 66 and the age at which a person received the household benefits package and free travel was reduced accordingly. The Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act 1993 defines "pensionable age" as being 66 years of age. Any reduction in the pension age and, consequently, the age at which a person becomes entitled to free travel would have expenditure implications and could only be considered in a budgetary context.

Significant improvements have been made to the household benefits package of free schemes, including the free travel scheme, in recent budgets in terms of both the qualifying conditions and the coverage of the schemes. I will continue to review the operation of these schemes with a view to identifying the scope for further improvements as resources permit.

Decentralisation Programme.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

314 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the steps taken and progress made in decentralising sections of his Department to Donegal; the numbers in each grade who have applied for transfer; when he expects the decentralisation to be complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37949/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

Under the Government decentralisation programme announced in budget 2004, my Department is to relocate 230 posts to Donegal town and 120 posts to Buncrana. The decentralisation implementation group, DIG, report to the Minister for Finance on 19 November 2004 recommended those locations and organisations to be included in the first phase of moves, and those to be regarded as potential early movers. In the case of my Department, Sligo and Drogheda were included in the first phase and Carrick-on-Shannon was recommended as a location to be considered as an early mover.

The DIG progress report to the Minister for Finance on 30 June 2005 outlined the indicative construction start and completion dates for all locations and organisations not included in the first phase of the programme. According to the report, the indicative construction start date for Donegal town is end 2007 and the construction completion date is mid-2009. The corresponding dates for Buncrana are the end of 2007 and early 2009.

The Office of Public Works, OPW, has been charged with securing accommodation in the decentralised locations. My Department has been advised by OPW that a suitable site has been identified in Donegal town and a site has been purchased in Buncrana.

The Public Appointments Service, PAS, established the Central Applications Facility, CAF, through which all applications for decentralising locations must be submitted. According to figures received in my Department from the CAF, the number of applicants for Donegal town and Buncrana is 107 and 34 respectively. A breakdown per grade and location is as follows:

Grade	Donegal town	Buncrana
Principal	0	0
Assistant principal	4	0
Higher executive officer-Administrative officer	11	5
Executive officer	23	6
Staff officer	9	1
Clerical officer	54	17
Other grades	6	5
Total	107	34

Social Insurance.

Richard Bruton

Question:

315 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason persons who work in full-time week on, week off shift work and pay Class A PRSI contributions lose out on their contributions for the weeks which they have not worked (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38031/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The concept of weeks of insurable employment plays a key role in the operation of the social insurance system and is provided for in legislation. The system provides that social insurance contributions are paid by employees and employers on earnings exceeding €38 for each week of insurable employment. These contributions progressively build towards entitlement to a range of short and long-term benefits.

The specific pattern of work could potentially impact on a person's contributions record depending on the alignment of the working pattern with the legally defined contribution week. Many shift workers, for example nurses, work a condensed working week. They compress their working hours into one week while being paid over two weeks in respect of that employment; each of these are valid as weeks of insurable employment. As such, employees in the scenario do not lose any social protection coverage.

Two questions need to be considered in addressing the issue, that is, what impact do these working arrangements have on their entitlement to social welfare benefits and to what extent does the employee benefit from the social insurance arrangements.

In terms of entitlement to social welfare benefits, changes were made to the homemakers scheme to allow for the award of credited contributions where an eligible person who is in atypical employment such as job-sharing or on shift-work and the week off coincides with the PRSI contribution week. These credits maintain entitlement to old age contributory pension thus protecting their long term entitlement to that pension. The contribution requirements for unemployment, disability and maternity benefits were relaxed in 2001 providing an alternative test to the normal requirement. The usual test requires 39 contributions paid or credited in the relevant tax year while the alternative test requires 26 contributions paid in both the relevant tax year, and 26 the previous year also. This easing of the contribution requirements benefited all those work-sharing, working part-time, seasonally or intermittently. Employees may also be entitled to additional PRSI contributions on the basis of entitlement to public holidays under the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997.

In terms of the benefits of the system for atypical workers, in the years when the contribution weeks are not aligned with the calendar week and the working week spans two contribution weeks, provided they earn €38 or more, she-he gains two weeks PRSI allowances; pays less than half what is being paid by the other full-time workers and is awarded 52 contributions.

The issue was discussed by a social partnership group which considered possible developments towards a fully inclusive social insurance model. In its report, which was published in June this year, the group concluded that the potential incidence of a problem with people not qualifying for benefits would not warrant a fundamental review of the weekly contributions system, while also suggesting that the situation be monitored and information on atypical working arrangements be collated to inform future developments. The situation reflects the contributory principle which is at the heart of the social insurance system and there are no plans at present to review fundamentally the weekly contribution basis of the social insurance system.

Willie Penrose

Question:

316 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on the fact that widows whose late spouses contributed to the PRSI scheme and to the widows’ scheme, will cease being awarded their contributory old age pension upon them reaching the eligibility age for receipt of the old age pension, and due to the fact that these widows would have worked for considerable periods of time and paid appropriate PRSI contributions are placed in the position that they will only receive one of the persons despite being clearly entitled to both pensions; his plans to rectify this anomaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38180/05]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The social welfare system is based on income replacement with entitlement related to defined contingencies such as sickness, unemployment, old age and widowhood. Social welfare legislation provides that generally only one social welfare payment is payable at the one time. This approach is common to social security systems across the world. The overall objective is to ensure that social welfare expenditure is applied to the best effect in tackling disadvantage and to continuing the Government's policy of significant improvement in basic payments to all social welfare recipients.

National Roads Authority.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

317 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to provide extra funding to the National Roads Authority with a view to carrying out reinstatement and improvement to minor roads throughout the country that have suffered from increased traffic volumes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37624/05]

The primary investigative role in relation to road accidents is vested in the Garda Síochána. Such investigations seek to determine the causes of road accidents including, where appropriate, road construction or surface standards. The Garda reports on these investigations are forwarded to the National Roads Authority and subsequently to each local authority for the purpose of the establishment of accident trends and causes generally and to facilitate the carrying out of remedial works relating to road infrastructure where such action is deemed to be necessary.

The safe management of road improvement works is a matter for the road authorities involved and their contractors. I understand that requirements and standards in relation to pavement improvement works and resurfacing are set out in the NRA specification for road works. I also understand that two circular letters were issued by the NRA in March and May 2002 and that the NRA has since consolidated and reissued these circulars supplementing, where appropriate, the previous guidance. Requirements on the provision and deployment of traffic signs at road works are set out in the Traffic Signs Manual 1996. A major review of that manual is being pursued. The timely completion of road improvement works in accordance with these requirements is a matter for the local authority concerned and, as part of its overall supervision of the national roads programme, the NRA.

Furthermore, section 10 of the Road Traffic Act 2004 provides that a county or city manager may make a road works speed limit order for the application of a speed limit on any road or part of a road, including a motorway, where road works are being carried out. A road works speed limit order can be applied for any period of not more than 12 months and the minimum speed limit that may be put in place by such an order is 30 km/h.

Before making an order under section 10, a manager must give notice of the proposal to the Garda Commissioner and consider any representations made by the Commissioner. The consent of the National Roads Authority must be given in respect of any proposals to apply a road works speed limit on any part of a national road or a motorway. Notice of the making of a road works speed limit order must be published in one or more newspapers in circulation in the county or city where the road in respect of which the order is to have effect is located.

Question:

325 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if, in view of the proposed introduction of larger aircraft on long haul flights, there are plans to extend main runway 06/24 at Shannon Airport. [37851/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 322 to 325, inclusive, together.

I am informed by the Dublin Airport Authority that runway 17/35 at Cork Airport was originally constructed in 1961 to a length of 6,000 ft., 1,829 m, and subsequently extended in 1989 to 7,000 ft., 2,133 m.

In relation to Shannon Airport, runway 06/24 was constructed originally in 1960 at 10,000 ft., 3,048 m, and extended in 1971-72 to 10,500 ft., 3,199 m.

I understand from the company that there are no plans to extend the existing lengths of either of these two runways.

Public Relations Contracts.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

326 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the number of times professional adult models have been used for publicity purposes by his Department or by agencies under his Department’s remit since the 2002 general election; the cost involved in each case; and the matter they were promoting in each case. [37981/05]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

Traffic Regulations.

John Perry

Question:

330 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if CLÁR funding will be provided to provide flashing amber lights at a school (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37551/05]

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

Sligo County Council has advised that the school referred to is in Collooney district electoral division which is not a CLÁR area and, therefore, ineligible for funding under any of the measures in the programme.

Community Services.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

331 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the special arrangements in place within his Department and at the point of service delivery to meet the needs of the Traveller community; and if his attention has been drawn to particular difficulties experienced by members of the Traveller community in accessing services. [37598/05]

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

My Department funds a number of projects which either directly or indirectly provide Traveller support. The details are given in the appendix. I am not aware of any difficulties experienced by members of the Traveller community in accessing these services. However, if the Deputy is aware of any particular difficulty experienced, I would be glad to examine this.

Appendix

Community Development Programme, CDP. Travellers are one of a number of target groups that benefit under the community development programme. While a significant number of the 185 projects within the programme would identify Travellers as beneficiaries of their activities, services, etc., to a greater or lesser extent, 20 projects are funded that specifically focus on providing Traveller support. Training courses, support groups, provision of information and child care provision are examples of the type of supports typically made available.

The local development and social inclusion programme, LDSIP, aims to counter disadvantage and to promote equality and social and economic inclusion through the provision of funding and support to local partnerships.

Area partnerships and community partnerships across the country run programmes and courses that specifically target the Traveller community under the LDSIP. These include projects that meet the needs of Traveller men in relation to stabling, training and economics of their horses — this also acts as a forum for development work with Traveller men; primary health care training — preparing Traveller women to be health promotion workers in their community — it also works with Traveller men, through training; dedicated homework clubs for and youth workers for Traveller children; projects that aim to provide family support and educational opportunities for Travellers; and active citizen initiatives.

Under the funding scheme to support the role of federations, networks and umbrella bodies in the community and voluntary sector funding to the Traveller community is as follows: National Traveller Women's Forum —€141,000 over three years 2003-06, €47,000 per annum. The Irish Traveller Movement is being funded on a yearly basis. In 2004, it received €143,065 in two tranches. In 2005, it received €150,220 in two tranches.

Under the training and supports scheme the National Association of Travellers Centres is being funded for three years also to the sum of €105,000. Annual payments of €35,000 are made to the group.

My Department has also provided funding under the programme of grants for locally-based community and voluntary organisations. This programme supports the activities of local voluntary and community groups addressing disadvantage in their community. The programme consists of two schemes — one makes funds available for the purchase of essential equipment and for the small scale refurbishment of premises. This is complemented by a second scheme to provide education, training and research grants.

Grants of up to 90% of the cost are available under this programme. The maximum grant for refurbishment is €40,000; equipment is €10,000; and training, education and research is €10,000. I approved grants of €98,000 to groups working with Travellers across the country under the 2004 programme and I have approved grants of €33,000 so far under the 2005 programme to such groups.

Dormant Accounts Fund.

Michael Lowry

Question:

332 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when the grant applications will open for groups wishing to apply to the Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37607/05]

Dan Neville

Question:

333 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when further information will be available for groups wishing to apply for funding from the Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board. [37746/05]

Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Question Nos. 332 and 333 together.

The Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Act 2005 provides for significant changes in regard to the disbursement of funds from dormant accounts and for a reconstituted board. The Act was commenced on 1 September 2005. Under this new legislation, the Minister is required to consult with appropriate Ministers for the purpose of developing a proposal for submission to Government for approval. This proposal will include the programmes and types of projects in regard to which applications for disbursements will be invited, as well as the criteria to be applied in assessing applications made in response to the invitation.

Last week, the Government approved proposals for projects and programmes to address social and economic disadvantage under the next round of funding. The Minister will be making a further announcement shortly when the details and operational procedures are finalised. The consultation process with regard to proposals under the education disadvantage and disability categories is not yet finalised and the Minister hopes to be in a position to make proposals to Government under these headings shortly.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Michael Ring

Question:

334 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath who is on a rural social scheme is not receiving the child dependant allowance payment rate in respect of their stepson. [37799/05]

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

Finian McGrath

Question:

338 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the environmental legislation fur farms have to comply with regarding the disposal of waste matter. [38504/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 337 and 338 together.

Regulation (EC) 1774/2002 governs the disposal of waste animal by-product matter from fur farms. Such waste must be sent for rendering to an approved processing plant.

Fur Farming.

Mary Upton

Question:

339 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if inspectors of mink farms here have found cages since 2000 which do not comply with Council of Europe recommendations; if findings of non-compliance with Council of Europe recommendations have been made since that time; the mink farms to which these findings relate and the dates on which such findings were made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37619/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

Council of Europe recommendations are not legally binding. However, the Department sought compliance with these standards and fur farming licence holders indicated it is their intention to comply with these recommendations in a phased manner with full compliance with space requirements by 2010. Recent inspections indicated that fur farmers are installing the appropriate cages in the phased manner outlined.

Mary Upton

Question:

340 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of visits which were made by Department and veterinary inspectors during 2004 and 2005 to mink farms here; the farms which were visited and the date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37620/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

A total of 15 visits were made by Department and veterinary inspectors during 2004 and 22 visits were made in 2005.

Number of Visits in 2004.
Region	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sept	Oct	Nov	Dec
BMW			1				2		2		1	5
S & E			1			1					1	1

Number of Visits in 2005.
Region	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sept	Oct	Nov	Dec
BMW			1	1		3	2	3	3		7
S & E							1				1

Mary Upton

Question:

341 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if her attention has been drawn to whether or not petrol engines may be used in the slaughter of minks here; if her attention has further been drawn to whether petrol engines have been used to slaughter minks here and, if so, in which circumstances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37643/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

Section II (part 4b) of the Sixth Schedule of the European Communities (Protection of Animals at Time of Slaughter) Regulations 1995, states that gas produced by engines, when specially adapted, may be used to slaughter mink. Engines are used to produce carbon monoxide on some fur farms during the harvesting season for the purpose of recovering pelts.

Mary Upton

Question:

342 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of mink farms inspected during 2004 and to date in 2005 at the time of mink slaughter; the slaughter methods witnessed; the methods of slaughter, including the number of animals slaughtered in each slaughter box simultaneously; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37644/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

Under the Musk Rats Act 1933 (Application to Mink) Order 1965 the keeping of mink is prohibited except under licence from my Department. Six licensed fur farms operate in the country at present. In accordance with the legislation, the conditions for a licence set out the nature of the premises upon which mink may be kept, the precautions to be taken to prevent the escape of mink, the duration of the licence and the returns to be made by the licence holder.

Fur farming is regulated for animal welfare purposes by the provisions of the Protection of Animals kept for Farming Purposes Act 1984 and the European Communities (Protection of Animals kept for farming purposes) Regulations 2000 which transposes the provision of EU Directive 98/58/EC concerning the protection of animals kept for farming purposes. Licensed fur farms are inspected by officials from my Department to assess compliance with this legislation and with the European Communities (Protection of Animals at Time of Slaughter) Regulations 1995 and in addition the Council of Europe recommendations concerning fur animals. Three farms were visited at the time of slaughter in 2004 and five farms were visited in 2005. The slaughter methods witnessed were carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. The number of animals slaughtered in each box simultaneously varied nationally from 50 to 70.

Grant Payments.

John Perry

Question:

343 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) will receive their area based payment in view of the fact that they have the required stocking density; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37663/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The person named will be paid his full entitlement under the 2005 area based compensatory allowance scheme shortly.

John Perry

Question:

344 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) will receive their area based payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37664/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

An application under the single payment scheme disadvantaged areas scheme was received from the person named on 11 May 2005. Following initial processing, a problem was highlighted with one of the parcels listed. However, one of my officials has been in direct contact with the person named and the matter has now been resolved. The application is being processed for payment.

Fur Farming.

Martin Ferris

Question:

345 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if fur farm operatives who carry out on-farm slaughter of farmed mink and fox are required to have formal training in slaughter techniques; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37761/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

Fur farming is regulated for animal welfare purposes by the provisions of the Protection of Animals kept for Farming Purposes Act 1984 and by the European Communities (Protection of Animals kept for farming purposes) Regulations 2000 which transposes the provision of EU Directive 98/58/EC concerning the protection of animals kept for farming purposes. Licensed fur farms are also required to comply with the relevant provisions of the European Communities (Protection of Animals at time of Slaughter ) Regulations 1995, S.I. No. 114 of 1995. These regulations, while not requiring formal training, require that the owner or person in charge of animals to be slaughtered on fur farms must ensure that animals are spared any unavoidable excitement, pain or suffering.

Licensed fur farms are inspected under the above regulations. In addition to ensuring compliance with general welfare requirements, inspections also ascertain compliance with the slaughter methods permitted under the Sixth Schedule of the European Communities (Protection of Animals at Time of Slaughter) Regulations 1995, which gives effect to Council Directive 93/119/EC.

Grant Payments.

351 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the Government proposes to provide financial assistance to pig producers forced to cease production as a result of the nitrates action plan as has occurred under similar circumstances in the Netherlands and the UK; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37795/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 347 and 349 to 351, inclusive, together.

The implementation of the nitrates directive is a matter in the first instance for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Ireland's national action programme under the nitrates directive was formally submitted to the European Commission on 29 July 2005. Following a consultation process, regulations giving legal effect to the action programme are being finalised. Ireland is proceeding with a case for a derogation designed to allow certain farmers to operate, under appropriate conditions and controls, up to a level of 250 kg N org/ha/annum. The derogation proposes to cater largely for grassland holdings.

The action programme will inevitably have implications for some pig producers. Throughout the discussions on Ireland's proposals, the European Commission took a firm position on the minimum storage capacity required for this sector. It has also insisted that such storage facilities must be put in place at the earliest possible date. The nitrates action programme consequently provides that a storage capacity of 26 weeks is required for pigs and must be in place by 31 December 2006. However, a lesser storage requirement applies to smaller holdings on condition that they have adequate spreadlands to utilise all the manure on the holding, without exceeding nitrogen and phosphorus limits.

While implementation of the action programme will certainly have implications for some pig producers, I believe that the level of anxiety expressed in some quarters is excessive. I put proposals to the European Commission for a substantially improved farm waste management scheme to which, for the first time, pig producers will have access. Among other new elements, the scheme will provide for grants for specialised equipment with specific environmental advantages. I also intend to introduce a scheme to support the demonstration of new technologies to help the agriculture sector meet the requirements of the nitrates directive. The purpose of the scheme, details of which are being finalised at present with a view to an early introduction, is to examine new and emerging technologies for the treatment and possible use in bio-energy production of livestock manures, in particular from the pig and poultry sectors.

The other issue facing pig producers is access to enough land to spread the quantities of slurry produced on their holdings in a way that meets the nutrient limits and other requirements of the action programme. I am acutely conscious of the need for pig farmers to continue to have adequate spreadlands for pig slurry. In that context I ask Teagasc to undertake an active promotion campaign to demonstrate the nutrient value of slurry and the savings farmers can achieve by substituting it for chemical fertiliser. I will urge REPS planners to encourage their clients to use pig manure on their farms. I will also seek to ensure that the necessary record-keeping and inspection regimes are kept to what is strictly necessary.

Furthermore, there is much that farm organisations and individual farmers can do to promote the use of imported organic fertilisers such as pig slurry. It is in the interests of other farming sectors, such as the tillage sector that provides feed, to assist intensive pig producers by considering the use of manure on their crops. Pig producers also need to be proactive in identifying and encouraging suitable recipients to take and utilise their manure. I encourage the farm organisations to explore these possibilities.

While substantial grant aid is offered to help farmers comply with the nitrates directive, European Union legislation will not allow compensation to be paid to a farmer or any other person whose enterprise becomes unviable as a result of environmental legislation. A buy-out scheme was introduced in the Netherlands because of the extremely high pig numbers in that country. My understanding of the UK scheme, which dates back several years, is that it concerned a fundamental restructuring of the pig industry in that country rather than any specific issue relating to environmental legislation. The Irish pig industry, however, continues to generate income not only for producers but also for a significant processing industry that depends on a sustained and stable level of pig production for its future viability. There is a ready market for the amount of pigmeat being produced at present. It is important that we maintain existing levels of pig output, as reduced output would lead to lower export levels and more imports.

Pat Breen

Question:

348 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a whole territory approach was adopted in the application of the nitrates action plan when a nitrate vulnerable zone approach identifying those areas where groundwater is considered vulnerable could have been adopted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37792/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The decision to adopt a whole territory approach was taken by the Government, and the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government made the necessary regulations to this effect on 29 May 2003. The recommendations in favour of adopting the whole territory approach were based on consultation between the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, my Department and Teagasc. It was considered that this approach was the better option in terms of ensuring environmental protection on a national scale. The whole territory approach also had the merit of equity in that it would apply the same principles of good agricultural practice in all areas, whereas farmers located within designated nitrate vulnerable zones would be at a significant competitive disadvantage. It allowed for the regulatory burden on farmers to be kept to the minimum necessary. It was also compatible with Ireland's on-going obligations to implement other EU directives, such as the groundwater directive, which must be addressed on a national scale.

I am satisfied that all of the reasons for that decision remain valid. While substantial grant aid is offered to help farmers comply with the nitrates directive, European Union legislation will not allow compensation to be paid to a farmer or any other person whose enterprise becomes unviable as a result of environmental legislation. A buy-out scheme was introduced in the Netherlands because of the extremely high pig numbers in that country. My understanding of the UK scheme, which dates back several years, is that it concerned a fundamental restructuring of the pig industry in that country rather than any specific issue relating to environmental legislation. The Irish pig industry, however, continues to generate income not only for producers but also for a significant processing industry that depends on a sustained and stable level of pig production for its future viability. There is a ready market for the amount of pigmeat being produced at present. It is important that we maintain existing levels of pig output, as reduced output would lead to lower export levels and more imports.

Questions Nos. 349 to 351, inclusive, answered with Question No. 347.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

352 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of licensed pig farmers in County Kerry; if an analysis has been carried out on the possible effects of the nitrates directive on pig production in the county; if the directive will make it impossible for farmers to continue in production due to the availability of suitable land to spread slurry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37807/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The implementation of the nitrates directive is a matter in the first instance for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The licensing of pig farmers is a matter for the Environmental Protection Agency where the numbers of pigs are greater than the thresholds specified in the Protection of the Environment Act 2003. I understand one pig unit in County Kerry is licensed by the Environmental Protection Agency and two more are at application stage.

Ireland's national action programme under the nitrates directive was formally submitted to the European Commission on 29 July 2005. Following a consultation process, regulations giving legal effect to the action programme are being finalised. Ireland is proceeding with the case for a derogation designed to allow certain farmers to operate, under appropriate conditions and controls, up to a level of 250 kg organic nitrogen per hectare per annum. The derogation proposes to cater largely for grassland holdings. Discussions with the Commission on the derogation are already under way. The detailed conditions that will apply to farmers seeking a derogation will be matters for negotiation with the EU Commission and ultimately will be subject to approval by the EU nitrates committee. I will seek to ensure that any application procedures, record-keeping and inspection regimes arising in connection with a derogation are kept to what is strictly necessary.

Throughout the discussions on Ireland's proposals, the European Commission took a firm position on the minimum storage capacity required for pig producers and also insisted that such storage facilities must be put in place at the earliest possible date. Accordingly a storage capacity of 26 weeks is required for pigs and must be in place by 31 December 2006. However, for small units a lesser storage requirement, 16, 18, 20 or 22 weeks depending on the zone, applies to holdings with 100 pigs or less, conditional on the holding having adequate spreadlands to utilise all the manure on the holding without exceeding nitrogen and phosphorus limits.

The implementation of the nitrates action programme will inevitably have implications for pig producers. Regarding the availability of land to spread slurry, however, I believe the level of anxiety expressed in some quarters is excessive. I will ask Teagasc to undertake an active promotion campaign to demonstrate the nutrient value of slurry and the savings that farmers can achieve by substituting it for chemical fertiliser, and I will urge REPS planners to encourage their clients to use pig manure on their farms. I will also seek to ensure that the necessary record-keeping and inspection regimes are kept to what is strictly necessary.

There is much that farm organisations themselves and individual farmers can do to promote the use of imported organic fertilisers such as pig slurry. It is in the interests of other farming sectors, such as the tillage sector that provides feed, to assist the intensive pig producers by considering the use of manure on their crops. Pig producers also need to be pro-active in identifying and encouraging suitable recipients to take and utilise their manure. I would encourage the farm organisations to explore these possibilities.

To assist farmers meet the additional requirements of the nitrates action programme, I announced details of a proposed revised farm waste management scheme for which EU approval is now sought. I hope early approval of the scheme will be forthcoming from the European Commission so that it can be introduced quickly. Under these proposals, pig and poultry producers will be eligible for the first time for on-farm investment aid, and grants of up to 70% will be available. Among other new elements, the scheme will introduce a new 40% grant rate for specialised equipment with specific environmental advantages subject to maximum eligible investment of €80,000 in the case of decanter centrifuge systems and dry feeding systems for pigs and €40,000 in the case of specialised slurry spreading tankers and related equipment. The scheme will increase the maximum eligible investment for standard mobile equipment from €11,000 to €15,000 with a grant rate of 20%.

I also intend to introduce a scheme to support the demonstration of new technologies to help the agriculture sector meet the requirements of the nitrates directive. The purpose of the scheme, details of which are being finalised at present with a view to an early introduction, is to examine new and emerging technologies for the treatment and possible use in bio-energy production of livestock manures, in particular from the pig and poultry sectors.

Lethal injection is not routinely used to kill animals on fur farms. However, in the event that injection should be used, the injection concerned contains the active ingredient pentobarbital sodium. Medicines containing pentobarbital sodium must be administered by a veterinary surgeon or in his or her presence.

Departmental Correspondence.

Mary Upton

Question:

An official of my Department is in direct contact with the person named and the matter is being resolved satisfactorily.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Willie Penrose

Question:

360 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason her Department does not approve a reedbed system as an acceptable means of disposing waste water, under the terms of the REP scheme, due to the fact that such a system facilitates the disposal of all surplus waste water, prevents unnecessary and expensive storage, creates an additional habitat for birds and rare plants in the reedbed itself and reduces the risk of pollution; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38176/05]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

In 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, reed beds, should have a place in agricultural practice.

The working group has taken expert advice from a variety of sources and has been preparing detailed specifications and guidance documents for each of these systems. It has already made its recommendations on earth-lined stores but recommendations on the other issues are awaited. It would be inappropriate to allow the use of constructed wetlands in REPS before the technical working group has reported on the system.

Garda Vetting Procedures.

Tom Hayes

Question:

361 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when clearance will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [37533/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am advised by the Garda authorities that there is no record of a Garda vetting application in the name of this person at the central vetting unit. Applications for Garda vetting are submitted from the human resources departments of the agencies currently listed for vetting purposes, which is currently being reviewed by the working group to review Garda vetting. In the absence of such a request being received, this query cannot be progressed further at this time.

EU Directives.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

362 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the proposal from the European Disability Forum for a disability specific directive; and, if he is supportive of the proposal, the steps he has taken to promote same. [37573/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The directive referred to by the Deputy is, I understand, at present in the form of a draft that the European Disability Forum proposes to present formally to the EU institutions. Given the status of the document at present, the question of official consideration by member states has not yet arisen.

Secret Service.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

363 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the secret service was formed; its functions; the number of persons it employs and the location in which it is based. [37675/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

There is no secret service structure in this jurisdiction. The secret service Vote, which allocates moneys to a number of Departments, is administered by the Department of Finance.

Criminal Prosecutions.

Liz McManus

Question:

364 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to a file sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding further sexual abuse complaints against a number of Brothers of Charity at Lota, Glanmire, County Cork; if in view of this and previous investigations involving Brothers of Charity in Lota which resulted in a number of prosecutions any of these same brothers were ever working in Kilcornan, County Galway, which is currently under review; the movement of brothers there has been between Galway and Cork; the reason there have been no files sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions from Kilcornan, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37773/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

As Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform I have no responsibility with regard to the movement and staffing of Brothers of Charity. These are matters for that organisation.

With regard to the other matters raised, I am informed by the Garda authorities that there were seven complaints in total alleging abuse against members of the Brothers of Charity at Kilcornan, Clarenbridge, County Galway. In four of these cases the culprit was deceased at the time of the report being made to the Garda. One complaint was a minor assault deemed statute barred. The two remaining files submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions returned with a direction of no prosecution.

Earnings Inequality.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

365 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the five primary factors to which earnings inequality and income differentials here are attributable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38040/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I presume the Deputy's question is prompted by the recent publication of research commissioned by my Department and completed by the Economic and Social Research Institute on earnings inequality and the wage gap between young male and female graduates.

This research builds upon work undertaken in the context of the social partnership agreements by a consultative group on male-female wage differentials, chaired by my Department and which reported in late 2003. This group was specifically established to develop proposals for actions to address the issues raised in the ESRI report, How Unequal?, which had been published in 2000, again supported by my Department.

This 2000 research had shown that the gender pay gap was mainly explained by differences in labour market experience and that the unexplained remainder was not attributable to any one factor. A number of factors are considered to contribute to gender pay inequalities including: differences in accumulated work experiences and years spent outside the labour market; occupational segregation including both vertical and horizontal segregation; educational and training differences; promotion practices within firms; the availability of child care; the availability of maternity and parental leave; and the availability of family-friendly work practices. The research also suggested that women themselves did not have experience of female role models in senior positions in certain professions or in higher level management within some organisations.

The 2003 report of the consultative group on male-female wage differentials made specific recommendations on these factors and all either have been fully implemented or are being implemented as ongoing Government policy. The recommendations span a wide range of policy domains and cut across several Departments and State agencies. The Deputy will be aware of the significant progress which has been made in all of these areas with increased investment in child care; better provision of parental and maternity leave, and wider availability of family friendly policies. Other Departments are actively pursuing the implementation of recommendations which fall outside the remit of my Department, such as better access for girls to certain school subjects.

The most recent research on the topic, published last week, looked at the gender pay gap among graduates who had left third level education three years ago and found that a gender pay gap had already emerged within this relatively short time span. There is agreement at international level that the issue of the gender pay gap is complex and multifaceted. In Ireland the current, internationally comparative, rate of the gap is about 16% which coincides with the EU average.

The gender pay gap still requires an ongoing, multifaceted response and will be further addressed in the national women's strategy, which my Department is developing with all other relevant Departments at present. I will be bringing proposals for this cross-departmental national women's strategy to Government early next year and I am confident that my Cabinet colleagues will collaborate in finding further solutions to this cross cutting issue.

Citizenship Applications.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

366 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the delay in the processing of applications for citizenship from persons (details supplied); the reason delays of 24 months have been advised to these persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37531/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Applications for certificates of naturalisation were received from the persons referred to by the Deputy in the citizenship section of my Department on 19 October 2004 and 29 April 2005 respectively. Both are children of a naturalised Irish citizen.

The average processing time for applications for naturalisation is approximately 24 months at the present time. The first person, who is an adult, is a refugee. In accordance with the Government's obligations under the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees of 28 July 1951, every effort is made to ensure that applications from persons with refugee status are dealt with as quickly as possible, having regard for the general volume of applications on hands. It is likely that the application of the person concerned will be finalised in the early part of 2006.

The second person referred to by the Deputy is a minor. Due to the fact that such applications are more straightforward than standard adult applications, it is usually possible to finalise them in a shorter period of time. I cannot be specific on the exact time it will take to process this application, but it is unlikely to be finalised before the second quarter of 2006.

I will of course be in touch with both the Deputy and the applicants when the cases are finalised.

Traveller Community.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

367 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the special arrangements in place within his Department and at the point of service delivery to meet the needs of the Traveller community; and if his attention has been drawn to particular difficulties experienced by members of the travelling community in accessing services. [37599/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am not aware of any particular difficulties experienced by members of the Traveller community in accessing services directly delivered by my Department. As the Deputy is no doubt aware, Travellers enjoy the same civil and political rights as any other citizen. The Government is committed to challenging discrimination against Travellers and has defined membership of the Traveller community as a separate ground on which it is unlawful to discriminate under equality legislation.

Centre for Public Inquiry.

Finian McGrath

Question:

368 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on and recent attempts to undermine a centre (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37603/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I take it that the Deputy has tabled the question to me in the light of concerns which I have expressed about the position of Mr. Frank Connolly, the executive director of the Centre for Public Inquiry — Fiosrú An Phobail.

According to its website, the Centre for Public Inquiry was established in February 2005. The Centre for Public Inquiry is funded by Atlantic Philanthropies, which has provided funding of €4 million over five years to assist its work. The centre's claimed mission is "to independently promote the highest standards of integrity, ethics and accountability across Irish public and business life and to investigate and publicise breaches of those standards where they arise." The board of the centre is chaired by Mr. Justice Fergus Flood and includes Professor Enda McDonagh, Damien Kiberd and Greg O'Neill.

The board of the centre has appointed Frank Connolly to be its executive director. I have said publicly that Mr. Connolly has many major questions to deal with in respect of his travel to Colombia under an assumed identity with a known subversive in advance of the subsequent visit of the Colombia Three.

I am informed by the Garda Síochána that, following the arrest in August 2001, of James Monaghan, Martin McAuley and Niall Connolly — who became known as the Colombia Three — the Colombian authorities established that on 10 April 2001 three people in possession of false Irish passports had earlier entered the FARC controlled region in Colombia. The three persons who entered in April were subsequently identified as Frank Connolly, Niall Connolly and Pádraig Wilson.

Niall Connolly, who was identified as being part of both parties, is the brother of Frank Connolly and was described by the Government of Cuba in August 2001 as the official Sinn Féin representative to it and as resident in Havana. The Garda authorities have informed me that they are fully satisfied as to the accuracy of the identification of all the members of both parties.

Concerning the party that travelled to the FARC zone in April 2001, investigations have revealed that false passports were obtained for each of the members of the party as follows: an Irish passport bearing the photograph of Pádraig Wilson had been issued in the name of James Edward Walker on 19 May 2000; an Irish passport bearing the photograph of Niall Connolly had been issued in the name of Ralph McKay on 18 December 2000; and an Irish passport bearing the photograph of Frank Connolly had been issued in the name of John Francis Johnston on 1 November 2000.

Regarding the Colombia Three party arrested in August of the same year, the three persons in question, James Monaghan, Martin McAuley and Niall Connolly, formally admitted in the course of legal proceedings in Colombia that they were in possession of three false passports as follows: James Monaghan was travelling on a British passport bearing his photograph and issued in the name of Edward Joseph Campbell; Martin McAuley was travelling on a British passport bearing his photograph and issued in the name of John Joseph Kelly; and Niall Connolly was travelling on an Irish passport bearing his photograph and issued in the name of David Bracken, a deceased person.

I do not propose to rehearse here the gravity of the charges against the Colombia Three but it clearly strains credulity to suggest that the two visits were unconnected. This is all the more so when the persons on both trips had access to false passports which could only have been obtained in such quantities as part of a well organised, sinister enterprise. Niall Connolly, the brother of Frank Connolly, travelled on both occasions on a false passport. I do not accept that the purpose of the visit on either occasion was to study the peace process in Colombia.

Pádraig Wilson was a known senior IRA member and has been convicted in Northern Ireland of explosives offences and conspiracy to murder, and of IRA membership. James Monaghan was a known senior IRA member and has been convicted of numerous explosives and firearms offences, in this jurisdiction and in the UK, and of IRA membership. Martin McAuley was a known IRA member and has been convicted of possession of a firearm.

On the basis of intelligence reports furnished to me, the visits appear to have been connected with an arrangement whereby the Provisional IRA furnished know-how in the use of explosives. The consideration received by the Provisional IRA under the arrangement is believed to be the payment of a large amount of money by FARC which finances its activities by its control of the cocaine trade in the area of Colombia which it controls.

I am aware that, despite the commitment of the Centre for Public Inquiry to "independently promote the highest standards of integrity, ethics and accountability", Mr. Connolly has proved very reticent in answering any detailed questions about the subject of his presence in Colombia.

I believe many people will find it surprising, given the public attention that this matter has received, that no adequate and sustained attempt appears to have been made by the board of the Centre for Public Inquiry to address the genuine issues of public concerns that arise.

Garda Investigations.

Joe Costello

Question:

369 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of investigations into the death of Richie Barron; the cost to the taxpayer of each investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37637/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

There have been three Garda investigations into the death of the person concerned. Such investigations are undertaken as part of normal duties and, therefore, the costs incurred in each investigation were accounted for in the normal manner under the relevant subheads of the Votes concerned. It would not be possible to retrospectively extract the cost of each investigation without the reallocation of resources on a scale that would be impractical.

Land Registry.

Pat Breen

Question:

370 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Land Registry Office will expedite the applications on a folio for persons (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37638/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I wish to inform the Deputy that I have requested the Land Registry to contact him directly concerning the current position of the application in question.

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.

Visa Applications.

Tony Gregory

Question:

371 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the details lodged in the appeal (details supplied) he will review the decision to refuse a visitor visa to the spouse of a person resident and working here to enable their spouse to visit for the Christmas holiday only. [37639/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the visa application in question has been approved on appeal by my Department.

Tribunals of Inquiry.

Joe Costello

Question:

372 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the money paid to each legal team in the course of the Morris tribunal to date in 2005; the running costs, other than legal costs, of the tribunal to date in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37640/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The amounts paid in 2005 in respect of the Morris tribunal, up to the end of November are as follows:

Amounts to legal teams.
Tribunal legal team:	€1.695 million
Garda legal team:	€1.247 million
Department legal team:	€90,000

Other costs.
Third party legal costs:	€175,000
Non-legal costs to date in 2005:	€2.205 million

Land Registry.

Pat Breen

Question:

373 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Land Registry Office will expedite the applications on a folio for persons (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37648/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I wish to inform the Deputy that I have requested the Land Registry to contact him directly concerning the current position of the applications 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.

Garda Strength.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

374 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda personnel in the Kerry division as at 22 November 1997, 2000 and 2004 respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37684/05]

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

375 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda personnel in Tralee Garda Station, County Kerry as at 22 November 1997, 2000 and 2004 respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37685/05]

Martin Ferris

Question:

376 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of extra gardaí who have been allocated to the Tralee Garda division since 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37764/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 374 to 376, inclusive, together.

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of both the Kerry Garda division and the Tralee Garda station as at 30 November, 1997, 2000 and 2004 was as set out in the following table:

Date	Kerry division	Tralee station
30/11/1997	229	76
30/11/2000	253	80
30/11/2004	262	83

I am further informed that the personal strength of Tralee Garda district as at 31 December 1997 was 94, all ranks. The personnel strength of Tralee Garda district as at 1 December, 2005 was 105, all ranks. This represents an increase of 11, or 11.7%, in the number of personnel allocated to Tralee Garda district since that date. Garda management states that Garda personnel strength as requested on specific dates is not readily available.

Garda management further states that Garda personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are constantly monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources.

Regarding 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 Kerry division will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.

Probation and Welfare Service.

James Breen

Question:

377 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if more training and employment officers will be employed to carry on and enhance the great service provided by the existing staff of 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37766/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The linkage programme is a joint enterprise between Business in the Community, Ireland, and the probation and welfare service of my Department. The programme is fully funded by my Department through the probation and welfare service. I intend to continue to provide financial and other support for its work and to keep the allocation of funding under review.

Residency Permits.

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The equal opportunities childcare programme, EOCP, 2000-2006 has an equal opportunities and social inclusion perspective and facilitates the further development and expansion of child care facilities, to address the needs of parents in reconciling their child care needs with their participation in employment, education and training.

With regard to the community based group referred to by the Deputy, an application for capital grant assistance was submitted to my Department. Each application for assistance under the EOCP undergoes a thorough assessment by Pobal, formerly known as Area Development Management Limited, which is engaged by my Department to operate the day to day implementation of the programme. On completion of the assessment process, applications are then considered by the programme appraisal committee, chaired by my Department, before a final decision is made regarding funding.

I understand that a decision in respect of this application is being finalised, following which the group will be advised of the outcome.

Garda Deployment.

Joan Burton

Question:

381 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of community gardaí allocated to and working in Dublin 15; the number of gardaí allocated to Dublin 15; the average number of gardaí per shift in Dublin 15 including community gardaí; the number of vehicles allocated to gardaí in Dublin 15; the number of vehicles allocated for active duty at weekends; and the number of gardaí working at Blanchardstown Garda station. [37834/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

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 Dublin metropolitan region west division as at 31 December 1997 was 502, including all ranks. The personnel strength of the Dublin metropolitan region west division as at 1 December 2005 was 694, including all ranks. This represents an increase of 192 or 38.24% in the number of personnel allocated to the Dublin metropolitan region west division.

I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of the community policing unit attached to Blanchardstown Garda station as at 18 November 2005 was 18, including all ranks.

Garda management states that the personnel strength of Blanchardstown Garda station as at 31 December, 1997 was 89, including all ranks. The personnel strength of Blanchardstown Garda station as at 1 December, 2005 was 170, including all ranks. This represents an increase of 81 or 91% in the number of personnel allocated to Blanchardstown Garda station.

Garda management also states that for security and operational reasons it is not Garda policy to disclose the number of personnel on duty in any given area over a specific period.

The number of vehicles allocated to Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, are set out in the following table:

Cars	4 X 4s	Vans	Motorbikes	Mini Bus
25	2	4	7	1

The figures include vehicles which are temporarily allocated for operational reasons to the Blanchardstown area.

Garda personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy are constantly monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources.

With regard to Garda resources generally, the accelerated recruitment campaign to reach a record force strength of 14,000, in line with the commitment in 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 and, in this context, the needs of Dublin 15 will be fully considered.

Criminal Prosecutions.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

I refer the Deputy to my replies to Parliamentary Questions No. 424 of 19 April 2005, No. 199 of 21 April 2005, No. 988 of 28 September 2005 and No. 366 of 12 October 2005.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

392 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the snowmobiles purchased by his Department during the severe winter of 1981 and 1982 are still serviceable and ready for use; if not, the steps that have been taken to replace them with newer machines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38038/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

Responsibility for maintenance of the roads in such circumstances would be a matter for the local authorities. As far as my Department has been able to ascertain in the time available, the transportation in question was not purchased by my Department but appears to have been donated to the Department of Defence and has since been written off.

Asylum Applications.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

393 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 502 of 22 November 2005 if permission to remain will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Louth. [38045/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I refer to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 502 on Tuesday 22 November 2005.

No new asylum application was received by the office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner from the person concerned by close of business on Thursday 1 December 2005. Accordingly, I have informed the Garda National Immigration Bureau to proceed with his deportation on foot of his original deportation order. His legal representative has been informed accordingly.

Garda Deployment.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

394 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí on duty in Ballymun during the night-time shift; and if he will request the Commissioner to review numbers available to the station during this time in view of the ongoing anti-social problems in part of the area and the poor Garda response times experienced by members of the public. [38048/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of Ballymun Garda station as at 1 December 2005 was 64, including all ranks.

I have been further informed that for security and operational reasons it is not Garda policy to disclose the number of personnel on duty in any given area over any specific period of time.

With regard to the policing of the Ballymun area, the Garda authorities state that the area is patrolled by the gardaí from Santry, Whitehall and Ballymun sub-districts and is supplemented by regular beat, mountain bike and detective unit patrols. Members of the community policing unit are assigned to the Ballymun area and have an excellent rapport with the local community and offer advice, support and assistance. The area is also patrolled by the divisional task force and traffic corps and additional foot patrols have also been assigned in the area as part of operational anvil.

Garda management further states that current policing plans for the area are designed to address the issues of anti-social and public order offences, the prevention of crime, including violence against the person and property and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy is regularly reviewed by local Garda management and continues to be central to the delivery of a policing service to the area.

With regard to Garda resources generally, the accelerated recruitment campaign to reach a record force strength of 14,000, in line with the commitment in 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 and, in this context, the needs of the Ballymun area will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda areas throughout the country.

Work Permits.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

395 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a work permit will be awarded to a person (details supplied); his views on whether this is an unfortunate position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38052/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

The applications in question were refused by my Department in September, 2004. An appeal was submitted and the decision was upheld on 13 October, 2004. The level of income in this case demonstrated that the individual in question may not be in a position to support the family so as to enable them to live in the State without recourse to public funds or resources. Therefore, my Department was not in a position to grant the visas at that time.

If the circumstances of the applicants have changed, then it is open to them to make fresh applications, supported by current documentation and my Department will be happy to consider this new application.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

396 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason his Department deems a person (details supplied) to be unable to support his spouse and child here when he has a gross wage of €483.17 weekly; the reason his Department refuses to give working permits to persons willing to work and to contribute to the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38053/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

400 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to previous parliamentary questions in this regard, and where it is clear that there is no application pending to either folios 18244 or 11388, County Westmeath, the way in which a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath became the registered owner of folio 18244 on 14 January 1966 on foot of instrument No. LR 6/70315; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38065/05]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of each Garda station in Cork city and county as at 31 December in each year since 1997 and as at 18 November 2005 was as set out in the following table.

Station	97	98	99	00	01	02	03	04	18/11/05	Pop.
Anglesea Street	186	187	187	204	208	208	219	221	220	4,235
Barrack Street	21	23	24	25	24	24	22	22	19	14,569
Bridewell	29	29	27	28	30	32	23	24	24	3,293
Blackrock	21	22	28	28	29	26	29	28	30	14,560
Gurranabraher	43	47	45	44	44	49	51	53	53	20,336
Blarney	13	14	15	15	15	15	15	15	14	8,949
Ballincollig	17	20	20	21	21	25	23	23	21	17,881
Rathduff	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2,632
Mayfield	38	39	39	36	35	38	40	45	45	11,709
McCurtain Street	28	28	31	32	35	30	0	0	0	7,839
Watercourse Road	27	27	29	30	31	33	60	58	52	9,637
Mallow Road	10	10	11	9	6	9	9	6	5	7,322
Togher	44	45	47	51	53	56	55	58	57	11,671
Douglas	19	19	19	23	23	23	21	24	22	3,1914
Ballinspittle	0	1	1	1	0	1	1	1	1	1,834
Ballyfeard	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1,183
Innishannon	1	1	1	0	1	1	1	1	1	329
Kilbrittan	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1,785
Kinsale	11	12	11	12	12	10	13	14	14	6,515
Timoleague	0	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	2,320
Bantry	20	23	23	26	24	24	23	24	25	5,773
Adrigole	0	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	No data
Ballydehob	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1,447
Castletownbere	4	3	5	5	5	5	5	1	4	4,192
Drimoleague	1	1	1	1	1	2	1	1	1	2,735
Durrus	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1,435
Glengarrif	3	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	1,375
Goleen	1	1	1	1	1	0	1	1	1	No data
Kealkil	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	No data
Schull	4	4	4	4	4	4	4	4	3	2,562
Clonakilty	21	23	22	22	21	21	22	23	23	7,781
Ballygurteen	1	1	1	1	1	1	0	0	0	493
Baltimore	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	0	1,144
Castletownsend	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	875
Drinagh	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	0	0	1,443
Dunmanway	4	5	5	6	4	6	5	7	7	4,276
Roscarbery	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	3,531
Skibbereen	10	9	9	8	9	9	10	10	10	6,035
Kanturk	19	19	20	23	25	24	22	24	23	5,286
Ballydesmond	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	2,024
Boherbue	2	2	2	1	1	1	1	1	1	2,126
Knocknagree	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1,714
Meelin	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1,543
Millstreet	8	8	8	6	6	7	7	8	8	3,972
Newmarket	3	3	3	3	4	3	3	3	4	2,463
Rathmore	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	1	1	2,723
Macroom	24	25	23	24	25	22	23	26	25	6,059
Ballingeary	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1,057
Ballyvourney	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2,144
Coachford	2	2	3	3	2	3	3	2	2	3,536
Crookstown	4	5	5	4	4	4	5	5	5	5,055
Inchigeela	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	715
Stuake	2	2	2	2	2	1	1	1	1	2,326
Tarelton	1	0	0	0	1	1	1	1	1	2,075
Bishopstown	24	24	26	27	25	23	25	26	23	20,231
Carrigaline	12	15	15	16	17	16	16	16	18	14,802
Passage West	4	4	4	5	5	5	4	5	5	4,770
Crosshaven	2	2	2	2	2	2	3	2	3	2,696
Fermoy	37	46	46	46	44	43	47	47	46	7,122
Mitchelstown	14	17	17	16	17	18	18	15	17	6,835
Ballynoe	2	2	2	2	2	1	1	1	1	1,943
Kilworth	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	2,307
Kildorrery	3	2	2	2	2	2	1	1	1	2,333
Castletownroche	2	2	4	3	3	2	2	2	2	2,587
Rathcormack	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	1	2	3,262
Ballyduff	2	2	2	2	2	2	1	1	1	1,251
Cobh	21	23	26	29	30	29	28	27	27	11,459
Carrig na bhFear	2	3	3	2	2	3	3	3	4	4,048
Carrigtwohill	3	3	4	4	3	2	3	3	3	4,047
Glanmire	14	17	16	16	15	16	16	18	17	12,949
Watergrasshill	2	2	2	2	2	2	1	1	1	2,049
Glenville	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	695
Midleton	24	31	34	34	35	39	40	39	39	11,301
Ardmore	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	1	2,215
Ballycotton	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2,466
Youghal	21	23	22	20	23	20	19	19	18	9,206
Killeagh	3	3	3	3	4	4	3	2	2	3,232
Cloyne	1	1	1	1	1	0	1	1	1	2,211
Whitegate	3	3	3	3	3	2	1	1	1	2,591
Mallow	27	30	31	30	31	34	31	31	32	12,370
Buttevant	3	3	4	2	2	2	3	3	3	2,709
Doneraile	2	1	1	2	2	1	1	1	1	2,664
Milford	1	1	2	2	2	1	1	4	5	2,160
Charleville	12	12	15	13	15	14	14	14	14	4,300
Glantane	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	2,649
Liscarroll	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1	1,922
Bandon	54	57	59	57	68	69	63	65	64	10,344
Ballineen	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	2	3,609
Ballinhassig	2	2	2	2	2	2	1	2	2	4,425

Population figures provided in the above table were sourced from the CSO census of population. Anglesea Street Garda station is the divisional headquarters for the Cork city division. It is also the regional headquarters for the southern division. As Anglesea Street station polices Cork city centre and relates to the resident population only, it does not include people who socialise, shop or work in the city centre area.

I have been further informed that the personnel strength of the Garda stations in Cork city and county as at 31 December 1997 was 972, all ranks. The personnel strength of the Garda stations in Cork city and county as at 18 November 2005 was 1,106, all ranks. This represents an increase of 134 or 13.8% on the number of personnel allocated to the Garda stations in Cork city and county since that date.

On 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 is now drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context the needs of Cork city and county will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda areas throughout the country.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

407 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps she has taken to promote further progress by the EU on accessibility by disabled persons to youth and education programmes and on the development of peer training and education programmes. [37577/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The accessibility to all of the three European education programmes, Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci and Youth, is a goal which I strongly support. Targeting disadvantaged, including disabled, groups is one of the long-standing priorities of the current EU programmes. People with special needs will continue to be targeted under the new EU lifelong learning programme. One of the objectives of the new programme is to contribute to increased participation in lifelong learning by people of all ages, including those with special needs.

Specific measures are undertaken during the current programmes. Under Socrates, school and adult education action, the programme is promoted to targeted groups and associations dealing with learners with disabilities. Moreover, potential applicant organisations with disabled or disadvantaged members are particularly encouraged and given support throughout the application process.

Schools with special needs students applying for funding are given priority in the selection process and additional funding may be provided for disadvantaged schools. In the case of students with physical disabilities, additional funds may be allocated to cover their travel and subsistence costs. Projects involving disabled adult learners in mobility activities may receive additional funding. Both school and adult educators may also apply for funding to attend in-service courses on the area of dealing with learners with special needs in the classroom.

The Erasmus higher education action of Socrates reserves 0.25% of mobility allocations, specifically for students and teachers with special needs and this is promoted widely in higher education institutions.

Under the Leonardo da Vinci vocational training programme, there have been a number of both mobility and pilot projects involving the target group of disabled persons, which have been explicitly included in the national objectives of the programme.

In the Youth programme, more than 12 organisations working with young people across the disability sector at national, regional and local level have received support and development in delivering travel and networking opportunities to young people with disabilities.

Adult Education.

Michael Lowry

Question:

408 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the initiatives and schemes within her Department to tackle adult literacy; the estimated number of persons in each county with literacy problems; the grants available to community groups and community development projects; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37610/05]

Michael Lowry

Question:

418 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the initiatives and schemes within her Department to tackle adult literacy; the estimated number of persons in each county with literacy problems; the grants available to community groups and community development projects; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37608/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 408 and 418 together.

My Department funds the provision of adult literacy and community education, through its annual adult literacy and community education, ALCES, grant to the vocational education committees, VECs. These programmes are delivered locally by the VECs.

The national development plan committed €93.5 million to the service in the period 2000-06. While figures for the estimated number of persons in each county with literacy problems are not available, the national development plan set a target of providing adult literacy supports to 113,000 people in the 2000-06 period. This target will be met.

Funding for adult literacy has been increased incrementally in recent years from just under €1 million in 1997 to over €22 million this year. Client numbers rose in the same period from 5,000 in 1997 to over 33,000 in 2004. With the increase in funds, a number of initiatives were put in place.

Referral networks with FÁS, local employment services, local development partnerships, health centres, welfare and community groups, playgroups, schools and school parent committees, libraries etc. are being expanded and strengthened. Family literacy groups, involving adults and their children, are running successfully. Staff development programmes are under way on a modular in-service basis for tutors and literacy organisers and a quality framework for the adult literacy service has been developed and published.

FÁS and VEC community employment joint literacy programmes are being expanded to all regions. These programmes enable participants on FÁS-funded community employment to be released half-time from their work experience programme to avail of intensive literacy tuition by the vocational education committees. A national referral directory on adult literacy services has been published and disseminated showing where services are located, what options are offered and the contact points and phone numbers.

My Department commissioned a number of TV series in literacy awareness and tuition for adults. They were broadcast by RTE One in the years 2000 to 2005. Each series was supplemented by a national freefone helpline provided by the National Adult Literacy Agency and learner workbooks and resource packs. Videos of the series were sent free to literacy schemes, public libraries, training centres and video outlets.

A number of tutors have been trained to provide literacy training in the workplace. The programme is available to local authority outdoor staff nationwide. There are also successful workplace literacy programmes in two hospitals and a trade union. In 2005, FÁS was allocated €2 million for workplace literacy measures.

An assessment framework for the adult literacy service has been developed in order to bring national consistency and objective standards into the initial diagnosis of a learner's starting points and subsequent progress. A literacy service through Irish has been developed for Gaeltacht areas.

The funding provided by my Department for community education under ALCES amounts to nearly €9 million in 2005. In addition, funding of just over €1 million has been allocated this year under the community strand element of the back-to-education initiative.

Community education refers to education and learning, generally outside the formal education sector, with the aims of enhancing learning, empowerment, and contributing to civic society. It is firmly community-based, with local groups taking responsibility for and playing a key role in organising courses, deciding on programme content and recruiting tutors. The local distribution of funds provided by my Department for community education is undertaken by the VECs.

School Staffing.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

409 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if a permanent concessionary post was granted to a school (details supplied) in County Waterford based on the school’s disadvantaged status in February 1994; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37530/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The school to which the Deputy refers was awarded designated disadvantaged status under the disadvantaged areas scheme in 1994. Under this scheme the school benefits from the services of a home-school-community liaison teacher post and each year is in receipt of additional supplementary capitation at the rate of €38.09 per pupil and a refund of the television licence fee. Schools included in the disadvantaged areas scheme in 1994 were included for capitation grant purposes only and were not allocated a permanent disadvantaged concessionary post.

Since 2001, the Giving Children an Even Break programme subsumes the previous process of designation of schools that serve areas of educational disadvantage and my Department's approach is now refined to ensure that individual at risk pupils are targeted. Rather than the old method of designating additional schools, under this scheme my Department provides support that is commensurate with the levels of concentration in schools of pupils with characteristics that are associated with educational disadvantage and early school-leaving. The school to which the Deputy refers receives additional financial resources to provide educational supports to be targeted at disadvantaged pupils and retained its entitlements as a designated disadvantaged school.

The recommended guideline for the maximum class size for schools that are designated disadvantaged is 29:1. When a designated disadvantaged school exceeds this guideline an additional mainstream teaching post, referred to as a maximum class size post, is sanctioned by my Department. The school referred to by the Deputy has a maximum class size post.

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 for the purposes of qualifying for resources, both human and financial, according to the degree of disadvantage experienced. This standardised system will replace all of the existing arrangements for targeting schools for participation in initiatives to address disadvantage. As a result of the identification process, approximately 600 primary schools, comprising 300 urban or town 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. Existing schemes and programmes will be integrated into the school support programme on a phased basis in the implementation period.

We anticipate being in a position to notify participating schools of the outcome of the ongoing identification process by the end of the year.

School Transport.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

410 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Education and Science the position on providing school transport for two children (details supplied) in County Mayo; if the school transport will be reviewed in this area; her views on whether schools would be accommodated if spaces were available, which is the case here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37563/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

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. To ensure openness and transparency in the system, a school which wishes to appeal its mainstream teaching allocation must do so by applying to the appeals board for mainstream staffing in primary schools. The board acts independently of my Department. The criteria under which an appeal can be made are set out in primary circular 19/02, which is available on my Department's website.

The members of the appeals board are Dr. Tom McCarthy, chairperson, Mr. Frank Davis, Ms Monica Healy, Ms Mairead McGowan and Mr. Sean Nolan. The board considered 96 appeals in relation to the 2005-06 school year. Of these, nine were upheld, 86 were refused and one was subsequently withdrawn by the school before a final decision could be made by the board.

Traveller Community.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

417 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the special arrangements in place within her Department and at the point of service delivery to meet the needs of the Traveller community; and if her attention has been drawn to particular difficulties experienced by members of the Traveller community in accessing services. [37600/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

It is important from the outset to emphasise that the Traveller community is entitled to the same education provision as all others. In addition, to assist members of the Traveller community to successfully access educational services there are a number of special provisions.

At departmental level, a high level official co-ordinates provision of education for Travellers. An advisory committee on Traveller education was established as a direct result of a recommendation in the 1995 report of the task force on the Traveller community. A national education officer for Travellers, appointed in 1992, identifies the educational needs of Travellers, provides advice on policy and educational provision and actively promotes the integration of provision.

The Department's regional office service has, since March 2005, taken over responsibility for managing and supporting the visiting teacher service for Traveller education. This service consists of 40 visiting teacher posts. The visiting teachers are located through the country and, in 2004-05, worked with approximately 8,000 Traveller pupils and their parents and with pre-schools, primary and post-primary schools to assist in maximising participation and attainment levels and to promote an interculturally inclusive education for all.

At local level there are 45 pre-schools for Travellers located throughout the country. There are over 500 resource teacher for Traveller, RTT, posts in primary schools throughout the country. At post-primary level, each school which has Traveller students enrolled is provided with an additional 1.5 ex-quota teaching hours per week.

Primary schools with an RTT are provided with an enhanced capitation grant for each Traveller pupil enrolled. At post-primary, a supplementary capitation grant is available for each Traveller student enrolled.

Traveller pupils have the same entitlements to school transport as other children attending primary and post-primary education. In addition, in special circumstances, Traveller children are provided with special transport, where deemed necessary, and are included in programmes which aim to combat disadvantage, for example, the home-school-community liaison scheme and school completion programme. They will be included in the provision under the action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS, which was announced earlier this year.

There is one special primary special school for Travellers and three junior education centres for Travellers. To cater for the needs of Travellers aged 15 years and upwards there are 33 senior Traveller training centres located throughout the country. These centres provide a programme of general education, vocational training, work experience, guidance, counselling and psychological services. Approximately 10% of students at these centres are from the settled community.

Travellers have access to mainstream adult and further and higher education in the same manner as others. For example, Travellers may choose from mainstream literacy provision or they may attend Traveller specific literacy programmes which 19 VECs provide.

In the education equality initiative, administered by the further education section, one of the 18 projects targeted at educationally disadvantaged adults was a leadership skills for Traveller women initiative in Letterkenny, County Donegal. This initiative targeted urban and rural Traveller women in Donegal.

The number of Travellers in third level is low. To help improve enrolment of Travellers in third level the National Office for Equity of Access to Higher Education has identified Travellers as a target group as it implements its Achieving Equity of Access to Higher Education in Ireland, Action Plan 2005-07.

In 2002, the Department published guidelines on Traveller education in primary schools and guidelines on traveller education in second level schools. These guidelines highlight the Department's policy on integration, give information on Traveller culture and provide advice on responding to the educational needs of the Traveller students. In May this year, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment published guidelines on intercultural education in primary schools. This publication, with the guidelines on Traveller education in primary and second level schools, will provide information and help for schools to increase their understanding of diversity. The NCCA is due to publish guidelines on intercultural education for post-primary schools in 2006.

The Department is about to publish a report of a survey of Traveller education provision. This survey, undertaken by the inspectorate, evaluated provision in a number of primary and post-primary schools. The report will provide recommendations on policies and strategies that will facilitate schools in enhancing the education provision for Travellers at a national level.

I am expecting a report on the recommendations for a five year Traveller education strategy early in the new year. This report spans the full spectrum of lifelong learning from pre-school to adult and further education.

The needs of the Traveller community are a high priority for me and the recommendations of the survey of Traveller education provision and the report on the recommendations for a five year Traveller education strategy, which are imminent, are evidence of the importance which my Department and I attach to ensuring meeting the educational needs of Travellers is given high priority.

Enda Kenny

Question:

421 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to review the relative weighting given to differing aspects of the Irish curriculum at junior and leaving certificate for both the higher and ordinary level paper; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37615/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

There are a number of activities under way which will inform any review of the weighting given to the various assessment components in Irish in the junior certificate and the leaving certificate examinations. The inspectorate of the Department has carried out an evaluation of the teaching and learning of Irish in the junior cycle in 10% of schools and a report on the findings will be published in 2006. In addition, the Department has invited the Council of Europe to carry out an analysis of language education in Ireland. Irish is one of the specific areas for consideration in this process and a report is expected in 2006. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment, NCCA, is also carrying out a review of languages in the post-primary curriculum and this includes a focus on Irish.

As the Deputy will be aware, I am anxious to have more emphasis placed on oral Irish. I have already asked the NCCA to make recommendations to me in this regard as one of its next steps in developing its proposals for senior cycle reform.

Stay Safe Programme.

Enda Kenny

Question:

422 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary and secondary schools offering the Stay Safe programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37616/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

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. Approximately, 80%-85% of primary schools are teaching the programme to their students. The issue of child protection and ensuring that all children in every primary and post-primary school are aware of child protection issues are high priority areas for the Department.

The Stay Safe programme is a personal safety programme for children. It is designed to give children the knowledge and necessary skills to help them deal with potentially abusive or threatening situations. However, it is also recognised that the programme must cover those individuals closely involved with children on a daily basis: parents-guardians and teachers. To this end, professional in-service courses for teachers and parent awareness seminars have been put in place at individual school level. This is in addition to the teaching of a personal safety skills programme to pupils.

The training of teachers, parents and boards of management in the Stay Safe programme and the development of guidelines and procedures for a school policy on child protection is provided by a network of 31 regionally based teachers who are available to the programme on a part-time basis. This support supplements the assistance provided by the Department of Health and Children which maintains an administrative office for the Stay Safe programme.

Although it should be noted that the Stay Safe programme is not mandatory, the teaching of the overall issue of child protection is now an integral element of the subject of social, personal and health education which is part of the primary curriculum taught in every school. The introduction of SPHE as a subject on the revised primary school curriculum, combined with the implementation of the national child protection guidelines, Children First, gave an additional impetus to the Stay Safe programme.

It is a priority of the Department to ensure a high level of awareness and necessary skills to address child protection issues, which includes the implementation of the Stay Safe programme, is maintained in all schools. For this reason, the Department will continue to support the promotion of child protection within the context of the social, personal and health education curriculum.

At post-primary level, social, personal and health education is a required subject in the junior certificate programme since September 2003. SPHE is provided in ten modules, including one on personal safety. Learning outcomes for students include to be able to recognise situations in which personal safety might be threatened; to have a greater awareness of safety-enhancing behaviours and to have a knowledge of help agencies and how to contact them. In addition, skills associated with staying safe are addressed in other modules such as communication skills, relationships and sexuality, influences and decisions.

Schools are assisted in the implementation of SPHE by the SPHE support service which was established in 2000. A comprehensive in-service programme for teachers of SPHE is offered and approximately 1,400 teachers attend every year. In addition, extensive school-based support is offered. Schools are provided with multiple copies of the SPHE curriculum and teacher guidelines, together with an SPHE handbook advising on good practice and classroom resources.

As further support to post-primary schools in the area of child safety and protection, the implementation of the Department's child protection guidelines was facilitated by the regional development officers of the SPHE support service and the relationships and sexuality co-ordinator. The SPHE support service of the Department with assistance from the Health Service Executive designed a one day in-service for designated liaison persons and deputy DLPs in post-primary schools to brief DLPs on the guidelines and their role. A total of 38 one day in-service workshops were offered during the 2004-05 school year in collaboration with the education and support centres.

To accommodate the schools that did not participate, 18 further workshops were organised through the education centre network in the autumn of 2005. These schools were invited to one of the planned autumn workshops and the invitation was supported by a circular from the Department in September 2005. Approximately 90% of post-primary schools have availed of the in-service programme. It is estimated that about 70, 10%, schools may not have availed of it. It is the intention of the Department to write to these schools when they have been identified with the assistance of the education centres.

In addition, the Department funded an additional resource of telephone line support through the respective school management bodies. The Department, with assistance from the HSE, also facilitated the development of an A to Z resource pack of materials for staff briefings in child protection issues. As a follow-up, the Department has issued a circular to schools advising them of a second day of in-service in 2006 and planning, in conjunction with the HSE, has started. The Department has also sent additional copies of the child protection guidelines to schools to ensure each school has a copy for all school personnel.

Third Level Funding.

Finian McGrath

Question:

423 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will support the funding of the McIver report and the TUI in its request for the necessary funding of this report’s recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37645/05]

Michael Noonan

Question:

427 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the moneys which have been allocated for the implementation of the McIver report on the 2006 Estimates; if she intends implementing the report and over what period of time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37759/05]

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

470 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will seek funding in the context of the 7 December 2005 budget to commence the implementation of the McIver report in order that the further education sector can be properly resourced and structured and that the 28,000 students in that sector will be given an equality of esteem with other students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37992/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 423, 427 and 470 together.

This Government is strongly committed to improving participation and achievement at every level of education. We have put the resources and supports in place to ensure there is a wide range of course options available in the further and higher education sectors for young people who wish to continue their studies after second level and for people returning to education later in life.

Post-leaving certificate, PLC, courses represent one such option. The Government's support for this hugely important sector is clear from the fact that we have increased the number of PLC places by 60% since 1996-97. The number of PLC places approved for 2005-06 is up by more than 1,600 on the 2004-05 level. The number of approved places in the sector now stands at 30,188. Government support for the sector is evident not only in the expansion of approved places and teachers, but also in the introduction of maintenance grants for students with effect from September 1998. Tuition fees for PLC courses are waived. The PLC maintenance grants scheme operates on the same basis as in higher education. There are nearly 8,000 PLC grant holders in 2005 and they will receive some €23 million in direct support.

Other developments funded by the Department of direct benefit to the PLC sector include the provision of national certification under the Further Education and Training Awards Council and the development of progression links with higher education in the institutes of technology. PLC students are included in the calculation of non-pay budgets issued to schools in respect of running costs. A supplemental non-pay grant towards running costs specifically for PLC schools is also payable and this will amount to €5.5 million in 2005. Government commitment to the sector, by reference to the resources applied in teachers' pay, non-pay running costs, student support and certification costs is very significant.

The McIver report contains 21 overarching recommendations, incorporating 91 sub-recommendations. Having regard to the number and scope of the recommendations in the report, extensive consultations have been held with management and staff interests with regard to such issues as the prioritisation of recommendations, the structural changes envisaged in the report, their implications and associated costs in the context of the overall provision of resources for further and adult education.

Active consideration is being given to all the issues involved. While this work is ongoing, extra investment has been provided in the 2006 Estimates to develop the PLC sector further and to improve supports for other aspects of further-adult education. The Estimates include provision for the cost of the extra 100 teaching posts being provided for the post-leaving certificate colleges in the current academic year. They also provide for an increase of 19% in the VTOS non-pay grant in 2006.

The Government has shown a sustained determination to expand and improve further and adult education in recent years. We believe strongly in the value of this sector and will continue to prioritise it for resources and supports in the years ahead.

Higher Education Grants.

Michael Ring

Question:

424 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved grant assistance following their direct appeal. [37741/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Under the terms of the third level student support schemes, clause 7.6 of the higher education grants scheme, maintenance grants are not payable to candidates who already hold an undergraduate degree and are pursuing a second undergraduate degree. Similarly, tuition fees are not payable in respect of a second period of college attendance at the same level.

The student referred to by the Deputy already holds an arts degree and is, therefore, ineligible for a higher education grant and is also unable to benefit under the free fees initiative in respect of any further studies at undergraduate level. As the rules governing the schemes are of general application, exceptions cannot be made in individual instances.

Tax relief, is however, available in respect of undergraduate fees paid in publicly funded colleges here and in other EU member states, as well as in private colleges in the State. This relief applies at the standard rate of tax and is available to full-time students and part-time postgraduate students. Further details and conditions in relation to this tax relief are available from local tax offices.

School Staffing.

Niall Blaney

Question:

425 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Education and Science when she intends to appoint a second teacher to the current one teacher school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37747/05]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table. The data refer to the 2004-05 school year. Data are given separately for all classes and for classes including infants. The latter may include pupils in other standards where there are consecutive grade classes or multi-grade classes. Of those classes with 30 or more pupils, the average class size is 32.

			Number of Pupils, all Classes	Number of Pupils, Classes including Infants
Roll No.	School	Address	20-24	25-29	30-34	35-39	20-24	25-29	30-34	35-39
12967O	Inchigeela N S	Inchigeela	42	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
13095L	S N An Droma Mhóir	Aghaville	23	27	0	0	0	27	0	0
13125R	Scoil Dhairbhre	Clonakilty	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
13375R	Scoil Bhríde	Cros Mhathiúna	48	53	92	0	0	28	30	0
13543M	Derrinacahara N S	Dunmanway	23	0	0	0	23	0	0	0
13647B	Castlemartyr N S	Castlemartyr	24	57	30	0	24	0	0	0
13662U	Dunmanway Convent Inf	Dunmanway	24	77	0	0	24	52	0	0
13728B	Castletownsend Mxd N S	Skibbereen	23	80	0	0	0	53	0	0
13910N	S N Bun an tSabhairne	Crosshaven	24	29	0	73	24	29	0	0
13976U	St. Matthias N S	Church Road	44	0	0	0	22	0	0	0
14225D	Scoil Bhríde	Ballydehob	23	54	33	0	23	28	0	0
14227H	Kilcoe NS	Skibbereen	24	25	0	0	24	0	0	0
16885J	Adrigole N S	Adrigole	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
16900C	S N Pádraig Naofa B	Skibbereen	41	0	31	0	n/a	n/a	n/a	0
17050J	S N Naomh Shéamuis	Durrus	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
17715M	S N Ráth a Bharraigh	Clonakilty	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
17888U	S N na Trionóide	Bealad Rossmore	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
18100D	Lisgriffin N S	Goleen	20	0	0	0	20	0	0	0
18659K	Lisavaird Mxd N S	Clonakilty	46	0	0	0	22	0	0	0
18883P	S N Íosagáin	Mala	0	79	31	0	0	79	31	0
19224D	S N Cillmin	Cillmin	20	28	62	0	0	28	0	0
19249T	Barryroe NS	Lislevane	91	53	0	0	43	0	0	0

The Deputy should be aware that 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 2004-05 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 learning support-resource teachers, has fallen from 22.2:1 in the 1996-97 school year to 17.1:1 in 2004-05.

As I indicated in the statement on the recently published Estimates, I have secured sufficient funding to provide even smaller classes in our primary schools in the next school year. The Minister for Finance has committed to a further reduction in class size in the following year.

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.

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 the Department's website.

Physical Education Facilities.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

430 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary schools in the country with a sports hall, general practitioner’s room or both; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37775/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The information in the format requested by the Deputy is not readily available. However, on 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.

The 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 the 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 the 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.

Schools Building Projects.

Denis Naughten

Question:

431 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if funding will be approved for a new school (details supplied) in County Roscommon; the status of the application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37783/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The school referred to by the Deputy has made an application for capital funding towards the provision of a new school on a new site being provided by the parish. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria which was revised last year following consultation with the education partners. The project is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2005-09.

School Accommodation.

Denis Naughten

Question:

432 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if funding will be approved under the additional accommodation scheme for a school (details supplied) in County Roscommon; the status of the application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37784/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Enda Kenny

Question:

436 D'fhiafraigh Mr. Kenny den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta cad é an scéal faoi Ghaelscoil nua a thógáil i gClár Clainne Mhuiris (sonraí tugtha) i gContae Mhaigh Eo agus cén t-airgead a bheidh ar fáil sa bhliain 2006 chun an scoil sin a thógáil, agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina leith. [37813/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Tá iarratas faighte ag mo Roinnse ar mhaoiniú caipitil i leith riachtanais chóiríochta na scoile seo. D'fhonn a chinntiú go ndéanfaidh aon infheistiú caipitil a phleanálfaí soláthar do riachtanais chóiríochta fadtéarmacha na scoile, is gá an clárú réamh-mheasta fadtéarmach ag an scoil a mheas, óir go mbeidh an méid cóiríochta a bheas de dhíth ar an scoil ag brath air sin. Tá an measúnacht seo nach mór críochnaithe agus chomh luath is a bheidh sé tugtha chun críche le húdarás na scoile déanfar cinneadh ar an gcaoi is fearr chun soláthar a dhéanamh do dhítheanna reatha agus dítheanna feasta.

Tá Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí, a ghníomhaíonn ar son mo Ranna maidir le ceannach suíomhanna, ag déanamh socruithe faoi láthair chun síneadh le suíomh na scoile mar atá a cheannach d'fhonn an fhorbairt atá de dhíth a éascú. Breithneofar an tionscadal seo i gcomhthéacs an chláir 2005-09 um thógail agus athchoiriú scoileanna.

School Accommodation.

Enda Kenny

Question:

My Department is in receipt of an application from the school to which the Deputy refers for large-scale capital funding. This application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects. Progress on the project will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Schools Recognition.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

441 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the additional support she proposes to give Educate Together to enable it to develop its national office support system so that its group of schools, which is expanding rapidly throughout the country, will be able to provide the services and support which the pupils, parents, teachers and boards of management require; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37818/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The funding my Department provides for Educate Together as a school management body is on a par with that provided for Foras Patrúnachta na Scoileanna Lán-Ghaeilge, 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 for Educate Together in 2005 to meet the immediate issues of concern to that body. The amount provided in 2005 was €81,133. As I indicated in my statement on the publication of the Estimates for 2006, extra funding will be made available to the primary school management bodies, including Educate Together, and I will be in touch with them in the coming weeks about this.

In accordance with the provisions of the Education Act 1998, as Minister, I 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, County Dublin, which was designed and built in less than 13 months.

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Individual school management authorities are not required to report to my Department on incidences of bullying. The information requested by the Deputy, therefore, is not available in my Department.

I am acutely aware of the issue of bullying in schools and my Department has in place a multifaceted strategy to tackle the issue. The education of students in both primary and post-primary schools about anti-bullying behaviour is a central part of the social, personal and health education, SPHE, curriculum. SPHE is 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.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 448 to 453, inclusive, and 461, 468 and 469 together.

The information regarding the number of special education teachers in County Meath in the years 2002 to 2005 is not readily available within my Department and it would take an inordinate time to compile. However, at primary level, approximately 5,000 teachers in our primary schools work directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares to fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers works specifically with children with special needs. At second level, approximately 1,628 whole-time equivalent additional teachers are in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares with approximately 200 teachers in 1998. In addition, 532 whole-time equivalent learning support teachers are in our second level schools.

In recent years the number of teaching posts allocated to cater for pupils with special needs at post-primary level has increased as follows:

	Resource	Learning Support
2002-2003	855 wtes	545
2003-2004	1,105 wtes	533
2004-2005	1,388 wtes	528
2005-2006	1,628 wtes	532

wtes = (whole-time teacher equivalents).

Approximately 261 whole-time special needs assistants, SNAs, in primary and second level schools in County Meath support children with special needs. Applications for special needs teaching and SNA supports are dealt with by the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, which processes all applications for such support from schools and communicates the decisions directly to the schools. Where it has been established additional SNA posts are required, these posts are continuing to be allocated on an ongoing basis. The Deputy may be aware that the Government has put in place unprecedented support for children with special needs. Since 1998, the number of SNAs has increased from under 300 to more than 6,000 nationally. I am confident the advent of the NCSE will prove of major benefit in ensuring all children with special educational needs, including those in the counties referred to by the Deputy, receive the support they require when and where they require it.

School Accommodation.

Damien English

Question:

454 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which the present accommodation is sufficient to meet current and projected requirements in respect of all primary and post-primary schools in Navan, County Meath; her plans to meet these requirements in the future; the extent to which she has evaluated the population increase to determine these requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37958/05]

Damien English

Question:

455 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which the present accommodation is sufficient to meet current and projected requirements in respect of all primary and post-primary schools in Kells, County Meath; her plans to meet these requirements in the future; the extent to which she has evaluated the population increase to determine these requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37959/05]

Damien English

Question:

456 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which the present accommodation is sufficient to meet current and projected requirements in respect of all primary and post-primary schools in Trim, County Meath; her plans to meet these requirements in the future; the extent to which she has evaluated the population increase determine these requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37960/05]

Damien English

Question:

457 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which the present accommodation is sufficient to meet current and projected requirements in respect of all primary and post-primary schools in Oldcastle, County Meath; her plans to meet these requirements in the future; the extent to which she has evaluated the population increase to determine these requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37961/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 454 to 457, inclusive, together.

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that, at primary level, it is proposed to provide extensions for three schools in Navan, namely, Mercy Convent, St. Oliver Plunkett and St. Paul's. In Trim extensions are planned for both Scoil Mhuire Naofa and St. Mary's, while in Kells extensions are planned for the two primary schools. There are no plans to provide an extension for the primary school in Oldcastle. All applications for capital funding have been assessed and prioritised in accordance with the published criteria. Their progress will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

At post-primary level it is proposed to provide a new school for Eureka secondary school in Kells as soon as the site has been acquired for same. My Department is included among the prescribed authorities to which local authorities are statutorily obliged to send draft development plans or proposed variations to development plans for comment. As a matter of course, meetings are arranged with local authorities to establish the location, scale and pace of any major proposed developments and sites are reserved, where necessary, to ensure as far as possible the timely delivery of required education infrastructure.

School Staffing.

Seamus Healy

Question:

458 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Education and Science if a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary and schools in the surrounding area will be designated as a pilot site for one of the 15 temporary pilot cluster posts to be put in place for teaching principals, particularly in view of the lack of qualified substitute teachers in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37962/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department is considering, in consultation with the relevant interests, the matter of the clusters of schools to be included in the pilot scheme. When a decision is taken on the matter, the authorities of the selected schools will be formally notified by my Department.

School Accommodation.

Damien English

Question:

459 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which the present accommodation is sufficient to meet current and projected requirements in respect of all primary and post-primary schools in Enfield, County Meath; her plans to meet these requirements in the future; the extent to which she has evaluated the population increase to determine these requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37963/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

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 Enfield, County Meath. Implementation of 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.

Damien English

Question:

460 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which the present accommodation is sufficient to meet current and projected requirements in respect of all primary and post-primary schools in Castlepollard, County Westmeath; her plans to meet these requirements in the future; the extent to which she has evaluated the population increase to determine these requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37964/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

When determining the long-term accommodation requirements for a particular school or area, the school planning section of my Department takes into consideration details of existing provision with the projected demographics of the area and other relevant factors to ensure adequate overall provision is made. This procedure has been applied to current applications for large-scale capital funding from two of the three primary schools in Castlepollard. Progress on the proposed works for these schools will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards. At post-primary level, a new school on a greenfield site, Coláiste Cionn Torc, has recently been completed with provision for 200 pupils. It is anticipated this school will cater for the post-primary needs of Castlepollard for the foreseeable future.

Question No. 461 answered with QuestionNo. 448.

Special Educational Needs.

Damien English

Question:

462 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which speech and language requirements have been assessed or determined in respect of each national school in Meath West; the extent to which such requirements are being met; her plans to meet such requirements in the near future; the extent to which her proposals meet the needs of children or as set out by the school authorities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37966/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department does not have a direct function in assessing speech and language requirements in national schools. The provision of speech therapy services is a matter for the Health Service Executive, HSE, and funding is provided to the HSE for such purposes. The Deputy may be aware that the National Council for Special Education, which became operational on 1 January 2005, now processes applications for special educational needs supports, including requests for supports for pupils with speech and language requirements. The council has a key role in the development and delivery of services for persons with special educational needs, including children with speech and language disorders. The council has a local area presence through a network of 71 special educational needs organisers, SENOs.

Pupils may be supported in an integrated setting in a mainstream school with resource teaching hours. A number of special classes for children with specific speech and language disorders have also been established. Such classes are established where a need has been identified and supported by up-to-date psychological and speech therapy reports. Each class caters for a maximum of seven children and each class requires the services of a speech therapist. The speech therapy service is provided by the relevant health service executive. There are currently in excess of 60 speech and language classes in primary schools nationally. Three of these classes are based in County Meath including two classes in Trim and one in Dunboyne.

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.

Early Childhood Education.

The new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, which I launched in May this year, aims to concentrate early childhood education actions on those children, aged from three up to school enrolment, who will subsequently attend the 150 urban-town primary schools, participating in the new school support programme, and identified as serving the most disadvantaged communities. The early childhood education actions under the new plan will be well targeted and my Department will work in partnership with other Departments and agencies with a view to meeting the overall care and education needs of the children involved in an integrated way. A strong emphasis will be placed on adding value to the work of other providers by embedding quality early learning within child care provision.

The bulk of preschool 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 under the equal opportunities child care programme, EOCP, 2000-06. Funding of over €13.8 million has been committed to County Westmeath to date under this programme. This funding will create over 1,200 new child care places while supporting a further 1,400 existing child care places.

Questions Nos. 468 and 469 answered with Question No. 448.

Question No. 470 answered with QuestionNo. 423.

School Staffing.

Seamus Healy

Question:

471 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the dangerous circumstances in which pupils and teachers in one-teacher schools find themselves, she will appoint an additional staff member to a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary and to the other 19 one-teacher primary schools in the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37993/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

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.

Under the current staffing schedule for primary schools, an enrolment of 12 recognised pupils at the end of September 2004 is required for the employment of a principal and one mainstream classroom teacher. However, the provisional enrolment figures, which have been submitted to the Department, indicate that a minimum of 12 recognised pupils were enrolled in a number of schools which currently have one teacher and, on this basis, the schools concerned would qualify for the appointment of a mainstream teacher in 2006.

Following detailed consideration of the position of these schools, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that, as an entirely exceptional matter, I have decided that a mainstream class teacher may be appointed in those schools immediately rather than with effect from 1 September 2006 which is the position which would normally apply in these circumstances. The boards of management of the schools concerned are being notified accordingly. A detailed review of the position of the schools with less than 12 recognised pupils is being undertaken and will be completed as speedily as possible.

With regard to the particular school referred to by the Deputy, the position is that the enrolment in the school at the end of September 2004 was 14 and, on this basis, the school has a staffing of a principal and one mainstream class teacher for the 2005-06 school year.

The school referred to by the Deputy has made an application for funding under the additional accommodation scheme 2006.

All applications under this scheme are currently being examined in the school planning section of my Department. The list of successful applicants will be published when the assessment process is completed.

Schools Refurbishment.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

475 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science when funding will be made available for essential roof repairs to a school (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38002/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department has recently allocated funding to address essential roof repairs at the school in question.

Linguistic Institute of Ireland.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

476 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the sum paid to date in 2005 to a company (details supplied) to carry out the liquidation of an institute (details supplied); when this liquidation will be fully completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38003/05]

Olwyn Enright

Question:

477 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of employees currently employed by an institute (details supplied); their role as the institute is currently in liquidation; the reason a post of researcher has been advertised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38004/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 476 and 477 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 total of seven staff remain employed by ITE. The entitlements of those employees for whom appropriate redeployment arrangements are not made will be determined in accordance with the terms of their contracts.

There are a number of projects and publications to be finalised in ITE. As part of the completion of the liquidation process the liquidator is also progressing these matters. In early 2005 the liquidator advertised for a researcher to assist in a specific project which was ongoing at the institute. A researcher was appointed in late March and that contract will expire in December 2005 and will not be renewed. There are no proposals to advertise for a further researcher. While no date has yet been formally set for completion of the liquidation, I understand that considerable progress has been made in recent months towards resolving a number of complex issues which have arisen and I am hopeful that early in the new year it will be possible to set a date for completion of the liquidation.

From 1 January 2005 to 5 December 2005 a total of €100,000 has been paid to the liquidator of which €50,200 relates to the work carried out for 2004.

Question No. 478 answered with QuestionNo. 420.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

479 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has satisfied herself that the Residential Institutions Redress Board has taken sufficient steps to alert possible claimants as to the closing date for applications on 15 December 2005, particularly in regard to persons who may be resident in the UK; the steps taken to alert possible applicants by way of advertisement or other measure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38036/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Section 8 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002, provides that applications may be made to the redress board within three years of the establishment of the board. This means that the statutory closing date for receipt of applications by the board is 15 December 2005. The board has made arrangements for applications to be received at its offices up to midnight on that date and it has placed advertisements in the media recently highlighting this arrangement.

Under section 5(1)(b) of the Act, the redress board is required to make all reasonable efforts through public advertisement or otherwise to inform potential applicants of the board’s functions. Over the past three years, the board has conducted an extensive advertising and publicity campaign which, as well as giving general information on the redress scheme, has specifically highlighted the closing date for making applications to the board. Advertisements have been placed in all the national broadsheet, tabloid and main provincial newspapers, on RTE 1 television, Network 2, Sky 1, Sky News, TV3 and TG4, and on all national and major local radio stations. The board also has had a website in operation for three years providing regular newsletters, media releases and general information on the redress scheme, including reference to the closing date for making applications to the board.

For the benefit of Irish emigrants resident in the UK, the board held 12 information days in the UK in 2004 and placed advertisements in the Sunday newspapers, daily newspapers and other publications there aimed specifically at the Irish community. It has also distributed 7,500 leaflets and 7,500 pamphlets to the network of Irish societies in the UK.

For persons resident in other countries, the board has made arrangements with the Department of Foreign Affairs for information on the redress scheme, including the closing date for applications, to be sent to Irish embassies abroad requesting them to distribute this information to all relevant Irish organisations with whom they have contact.

Last month, the board placed additional advertisements in the main Irish newspapers, selected UK publications and Irish publications in the U.S.A. and Australia drawing particular attention to the closing date for applications to the board.

The extensive advertising and publicity campaign conducted by the board in relation to the redress scheme has ensured that the board and its activities retain a high public profile. I am satisfied, therefore, that the board has made all reasonable efforts to publicise the scheme to potential applicants and draw attention to the closing date for receipt of applications.

My Department has provided funding for victim support groups at home and in the UK, including funding for five outreach centres in the UK, to facilitate the provision of information and advice on the redress scheme and other Government initiatives for survivors of child abuse.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

480 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of awards made each month in 2004 and to date in 2005 in respect of awards made by the Residential Institutions Redress Board; the average amount of each award; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38037/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Details of awards made by the Residential Institutions Redress Board per month as requested by the Deputy are contained in the following tabular statement. The records of the board relate to the date on which the awards are made. Some 75% of awards arise as a result of settlement negotiations and applicants are given a period of 28 days to accept or reject these offers. Due to the time lapse involved the figures do not reflect the number of decisions made in each month. The average award at the end of 2004 was €78,000. The current average award is €76,500.

Awards made by the Redress Board.
	No. of Awards
2004
January	105
February	110
March	127
April	105
May	167
June	191
July	207
August	107
September	154
October	197
November	167
December	176
2005
January	153
February	178
March	160
April	164
May	200
June	213
July	170
August	176
September	190
October	160
November	195

Higher Education Grants.

Liam Aylward

Question:

481 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will refer to representations of 13 September 2005 on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if a decision has been made on the appeal which was lodged against the decision of Kilkenny County Council to refuse their higher education grant application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38042/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Under the terms of my Department's third level student maintenance grant schemes, where the applicant is not an independent mature student, the reckonable income to be determined for the purposes of the award of the maintenance grant is income from all sources of the candidate and his or her parents or guardians where applicable.

The means test arrangements of the student maintenance grant schemes have been in operation since 1983 and are applied nationally. In the case of both the employed and self-employed gross income is assessed with certain specified social welfare and health board payments excluded.

The prescribed income limits may be increased by €4,295 where there are two children, or the candidate's parent, attending a full-time third level course, or €8,590 where there are three such children and so on, by increments of €4,295 for each additional child.

As all applications for financial support are means tested in accordance with the terms of the student maintenance grant schemes, a candidate shall not be eligible for a grant if the reckonable income for the purpose of the means testing is over the prescribed income limits irrespective of the individual circumstances.

It is understood from the awarding authority that the candidate referred to by the Deputy was not eligible for the maintenance grant as the reckonable income in this case exceeded the prescribed limit as set out in the higher education grant scheme. No appeal has been made to this Department against the decision of the awarding authority in this case.

Schools Refurbishment.

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of therapy services for people with disabilities, including speech therapy, is a matter for the Health Services Executive, HSE, and funding is provided to the HSE for such purposes. In the circumstances, the provision of speech and language therapy to the person referred to by the Deputy should be raised with the local HSE office.

School Accommodation.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

486 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the accommodation crisis currently being experienced by a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow and that the numbers of children attending the school in September 2006 will be sufficient to allow for the appointment of another teacher; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that in order to facilitate this additional capacity extra classrooms are required; if additional classrooms will be provided in the coming months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38092/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

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 to cater for its accommodation needs into the future. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the schools building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

School Curriculum.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

487 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to include a module on trade unions within the civic, social and political education curriculum at secondary school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38182/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

There are currently no plans to include a specific module on trades unions in the junior certificate civic, social and political education, CSPE, syllabus. This is because the potential already exists for teachers to incorporate teaching about trades unions into the course of study they undertake with students. The CSPE syllabus is a concept-based syllabus with highly flexible units of study. The concepts for study include those of democracy, rights and responsibilities, human dignity and interdependence. The units of study include in unit 1, the individual and citizenship; in unit 2, the community; and unit 3, the State — Ireland. Both these concepts and units of study allow the teacher to take a thematic approach towards teaching and learning in these areas. The theme can involve trades unions, community development, Government, etc. The course was designed in this way to avoid a topic-led approach dominating the teaching of the subject, which was a criticism often levelled at civics as a subject in the past.

The role of trade unions and industrial relations issues, together with the rights and responsibilities of workers is featured specifically in the vocational preparation and guidance aspects of the leaving certificate applied programme. The role of trade unions, industrial relations, handling conflict and human resources issues ar also features of the business syllabus at senior cycle. In addition, a resource pack for schools entitled SWAY — Skills Work and Youth — has been developed by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions in collaboration with the education sector, FÁS, IBEC and trade unions from abroad for use in the transition year, leaving certificate applied, leaving certificate vocational programme and guidance programmes in schools. The pack aims to promote an awareness among students of what is expected in the workplace, the need for lifelong learning in the context of rapidly changing needs, the role of trade unions in a national and European context, and the importance of recognised qualifications to a successful career.

School Accommodation.

John McGuinness

Question:

488 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to accommodate the needs of a school (details supplied) in County Carlow while it waits for the construction of a new complex; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38195/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The school planning section of my Department is in receipt of an application for large scale capital funding from the school to which the Deputy refers. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and progress on the proposed works will be considered in the context of the schools building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.

Schools Building Projects.

Dan Neville

Question:

489 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding plans to construct a new building for a school (details supplied) in County Limerick. [38232/05]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Officials in my Department's school planning section are working closely with the school authority in determining the long-term accommodation needs of the school referred to by the Deputy. This involves consideration of population growth, demographic trends, current and projected enrolments, recent and planned housing developments and how best to provide for the school's current and emerging accommodation needs.

The building project required to facilitate the school's development is being considered in the context of the schools building and modernisation programme 2005 to 2009.

Unmarked Graves.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

490 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Defence if the State will erect a headstone over the unmarked grave of a person (details supplied) in Glasnevin cemetery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37534/05]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

I will have the matter examined by my officials and I will revert to the Deputy.

Airport Safety Zones.

Pat Breen

Question:

491 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Defence if he has satisfied himself that the shape of the two-dimensional red zones at Casement Aerodrome are an accurate reflection of third party risk on the ground, or if his Department has proposals to alter the shape of such red zones; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37846/05]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

Red safety areas were first adopted at Casement Aerodrome following a review in 1992 by Aer Rianta, on behalf of the Department of Defence, of policy in regard to safety zones at the aerodrome and were introduced to ensure the safe and unobstructed operation of air traffic to and from Casement Aerodrome. International Civil Aviation Organisation standards and recommendations in regard to obstacle limitation surfaces for airports as well as considerations in regard to public safety in the vicinity of the aerodrome were taken into account in determining the size and shape of the red safety areas at Casement Aerodrome. The Snow report prepared in 1999 recommended in the case of Casement Aerodrome that the approach areas be retained for security and safety reasons because of the large proportion of training, including single-engine or solo flights by inexperienced pilots, carried out at the aerodrome. The matter will, however, be kept under review.

Defence Forces Reserve.

Bernard Allen

Question:

492 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Question No. 256 of 24 November 2005, if the officers are currently exercising command over the Army Reserve units, engineers, transport, signals, military police, PDF officers or reserve officers. [38067/05]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

The military authorities have advised me that consistent with the regulatory requirements and administrative instructions, officers have been appointed as commanding officers of reserve engineer, CIS, transport and military police units. These appointments are filled by officers of the Reserve Defence Force.

EU Directives.

Denis Naughten

Question:

493 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Government has signed the Aarhus Convention; if Ireland is obliged to comply with the convention; the mechanism available to Irish citizens to avail of funding under the convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37780/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Ireland signed the Aarhus Convention on 25 June 1998. Progress towards full ratification of the convention is closely aligned with work at EU level. To date, the European Union has adopted two directives as part of the ratification process for the convention. These deal with public access to environmental information, 2003/4/EC, and public participation in certain environmental decision making procedures, 2003/35/EC.

The three pillars of the Aarhus Convention deal with access to information on the environment, public participation in decision making and access to justice in environmental matters. The convention does not address the issue of provision of funding for citizens.

Work is continuing in my Department on transposing the two directives concerned. This work will be completed as soon as possible, at which point the instrument of ratification of the Aarhus Convention will be submitted to Government and laid before the Dáil in accordance with the requirements of the Constitution.

Traveller Community.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

494 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the special arrangements in place within his Department and at the point of service delivery to meet the needs of the Traveller community; and if his attention has been drawn to particular difficulties experienced by members of the Traveller community in accessing services. [37601/05]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

My Department's function in regard to Travellers is to ensure an adequate legislative and financial framework is in place within which local authorities, relevant voluntary bodies, and Traveller organisations may provide, or be assisted in the provision of, management and maintenance of accommodation for Travellers.

The legislative framework for the provision of accommodation for Travellers is set out in the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998. That Act requires the establishment of structures, at departmental and local level, which support the improved provision of accommodation for Travellers. These structures include the establishment of the National Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee, the role of which is to provide me with advice on all aspects of the provision of accommodation for Travellers. This committee is composed of representatives of my Department and the Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform as well as representatives of both councillors and officials from local authorities and representatives of Travellers and Traveller support groups.

At local level the 1998 Act requires that local authorities adopt and implement Traveller accommodation programmes and establish local traveller accommodation consultative committees. The first Traveller accommodation programmes covered the period 2000 to 2004. All relevant local authorities have now adopted new Traveller accommodation programmes for the period 2005 to 2008.

In terms of financial provision, my Department provides 100% of the capital funding required by local authorities to meet the accommodation needs of Travellers. This funding is provided through the local authority housing programmes and also in the form of a separate allocation for provision and refurbishment of Traveller specific accommodation. Funding is also provided to support local authorities with the costs of the management and maintenance of Traveller specific accommodation and with the employment of housing welfare officers and social workers to provide appropriate services to Travellers in regard to accommodation.

Under the first Traveller accommodation programmes, a total of €130 million was expended on the provision of new Traveller specific accommodation and on the refurbishment of existing Traveller specific accommodation to modern standards. It is expected that expenditure on Traveller specific accommodation in 2005 will be higher than in previous years.

Substantial progress was made during the first Traveller accommodation in providing Travellers with improved access to accommodation. Under these programmes a total of 1,371 additional families have been accommodated in permanent accommodation and the number of families on unauthorised sites has been reduced from 1,207 at the start of the programmes to 610 at the end of 2004. While this progress is welcome it is clear that further improvements are necessary. I look to the new Traveller accommodation programmes to deliver on that improvement.

Local Authority Procedures.

Michael Lowry

Question:

495 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the circumstances under which a local authority must abide by a unanimous notice of motion passed by that same authority. [37604/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Most acts of a local authority, which are reserved functions or questions duly coming or arising before a meeting of a local authority, are determined by way of simple majority of those present and voting or, where there is an equality of votes, with the chair having a second or casting vote. In certain specific instances, a particular weighted majority is required or a specified number of members must be present. There are no provisions requiring a unanimous vote of the elected members.

The Local Government Act 2001 provides that it is the duty of every manager to carry into effect all lawful directions of the elected council of a local authority or a joint body for which he or she is manager in regard to the exercise and performance of the reserved functions of the local authority or joint body.

Departmental Expenditure.

Tony Gregory

Question:

No general income threshold is set by my Department for eligibility for local authority housing. Local authorities are responsible under the Housing Act 1988 for assessing housing needs in accordance with their scheme of letting priorities. In making this assessment, local authorities have regard, inter alia, to the income and family circumstances of the applicant. Persons who are, in the opinion of the local authority, unable to provide housing from their own resources are eligible for local authority housing. Some authorities apply an income limit, for example, equivalent to that for the shared ownership scheme or an affordable housing loan. Any review of income thresholds is a matter for each individual local authority having regard to local circumstances.

Planning Issues.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

501 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the compulsory purchase of public and private lands by the local authority to facilitate the restoration of the harbour at Greystones through a PPP with a company (details supplied) is an inappropriate use of the compulsory purchase order process in view of the fact that the cost of the required works has been estimated at €25 million; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37804/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Greystones Harbour redevelopment project is being sponsored by Wicklow County Council. Use of its compulsory purchase powers is a matter for the local authority and a compulsory purchase order must be confirmed by An Bord Pleanála in any case where there is an objection.

I understand that the Greystones Harbour project is being processed in accordance with the PPP guidelines issued by my Department. These include competitive procurement procedures and advice from the National Development Finance Agency regarding value for money in regard to the proposal.

Waste Disposal.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

502 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the guidance which has been given to local authorities regarding the licensing of waste collection operators; if a minimum level of service is recommended or enforced by his Department and local authorities with regard to such licensed operators, for example the collection frequency of residual waste and recycling materials; if consideration has been given to the sanitary aspects of refuse sitting uncollected for lengthy periods of time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37809/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Section 33 of the Waste Management Act 1996, provides that relevant local authorities shall collect, or arrange for the collection of, household waste other than in certain circumstances, including where an adequate collection service is otherwise available. My Department has no function in this regard.

The Leitrim towns and villages sewerage scheme, which includes Roosky, is approved for construction under my Department's water services investment programme 2004 to 2006. I approved Leitrim County Council's contract documents for the sewage collection systems for all of the locations included in the scheme on 30 September 2005 and it is a matter for the council to invite tenders for these works. The council's tender documents for the waste water treatment facilities, which are being procured as a grouped design, build and operate contract, are under consideration in my Department and are being dealt with as quickly as possible.

Housing Grants.

Billy Timmins

Question:

508 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position with regard to grants or financial assistance to carry out necessary improvements and repairs to an old house so as to make it habitable; the assistance which is available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37938/05]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

It is not intended that Part V should be the only mechanism for the provision of social housing. The main local authority housing construction programmes, along with voluntary and co-operative construction programmes, continue to be the major contributors to the national social rented housing stock. Taking account of new local authority housing, vacancies arising in existing houses and output under other social and affordable housing measures, I anticipate that the needs of in excess of 13,000 households will be met in 2005.

Homeless Persons.

Joe Higgins

Question:

518 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the practice of housing families with children in bed and breakfast accommodation other than for emergencies will end; and if he will ensure that their stay is no longer than one month before more appropriate accommodation is secured. [38077/05]

Joe Higgins

Question:

519 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he is taking to provide move-on accommodation for families leaving emergency and bed and breakfast accommodation. [38078/05]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 518 and 519 together.

Local authorities and the Health Service Executive are responsible for meeting the accommodation and health care needs of homeless persons. It is, therefore, a matter for individual authorities to determine the level of bed and breakfast accommodation to be provided, having regard to the need for such accommodation within their areas.

While the use of bed and breakfast accommodation is seen at present as essential for the provision of emergency accommodation, it is recognised that it is not suitable as a long-term solution to homeless accommodation and that its use should be phased out, particularly for families. I am concerned to ensure that high standards prevail in the operation of the sector and that it is used only as a short term response to homelessness. At the request of my Department, Dublin City Council, which is a major user of bed and breakfast accommodation, and the Homeless Agency are conducting an ongoing review of this type of accommodation. This has led to increased monitoring, improved co-ordination and better management practice within the Dublin area. The council is continuing to address the issue so that continuous improvement of services will be offered to those whose needs dictate that it is the most suitable type of accommodation for them at a particular point in time.

While the emphasis was initially on the provision of emergency accommodation options, there is now general agreement that there is sufficient emergency accommodation available for those who wish to avail of it and the emphasis must now move to more long term solutions. My Department recoups to local authorities 90% of their expenditure on the provision of accommodation related services for homeless persons, including those in move-on accommodation. In 2004, recoupment was made in respect of 586 move-on units.

In addition, if it is suitable in individual circumstances to do so, accommodation can be accessed for formerly homeless persons by means of social housing units provided directly by local authorities or voluntary bodies. Units can also be sourced in the private sector by users of homeless services themselves, by resettlement services provided by the statutory and voluntary services and by the housing access unit operated by Threshold on behalf of the Homeless Agency.

Renewed focus is now being placed on the provision of long term accommodation together with the supports necessary to enable homeless persons to move into independent living. Local authorities are being urged to address this issue both with regard to their own accommodation and in discussions with the voluntary sector active in the housing area. Initiatives currently being undertaken in a number of areas in terms of provision of tenancy sustainment services will assist in this process. I am confident that we will see a significant increase in assistance to homeless persons under these headings in the future.

The funding available from my Department for recoupment to local authorities of costs incurred in the provision of accommodation and related services for homeless persons in 2005 amounts to €51 million. This brings to €240 million the total funding available from my Department for this purpose since the implementation of the integrated strategy in 2000. In addition, some €106 million was provided by the Department of Health and Children for care related services in the same period.

Local Authority Housing.

Joe Higgins

Question:

520 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the social housing budget will be increased in order to significantly increase the output of local authority housing units. [38080/05]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

The €1.3 billion investment programme for housing in 2006, which was announced in the Abridged Estimates Volume, AEV, represents a 5% increase over the 2005 allocation. While investment on this scale will allow for the delivery of a strong programme of social and affordable housing in 2006, the AEV provision does not take account of any further adjustments, particularly with regard to capital provision, which may be announced in budget 2006.

Question No. 521 answered with QuestionNo. 512.

Outdoor Events.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

522 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the initiative of a group (details supplied) in Dublin 24 which is promoting the idea that organised bonfires by local authorities would counter the menace of illegal bonfires; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38110/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

My Department has not been made aware of this group's initiative. It would appear appropriate for the group to take the matter up with the local authority for its area.

Road Network.

Sean Fleming

Question:

523 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress to date in 2005 in processing the application from Laois County Council to his Department for funding for road safety improvement measures for the junction of the Portlaoise to Timahoe road and the Stradbally to Ballyroan road (details supplied) in view of the fact that the National Roads Authority has approved revised plans for this junction; the estimated cost of this project and the amount of funding sought by the local authority; the date on which this application was made; when this funding will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38231/05]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The low cost safety improvement works scheme of grants for non-national roads was introduced by my Department in 2000 as an extension of the scheme operated on national roads under the auspices of the NRA. The NRA assesses applications for grant assistance under the non-national roads scheme on behalf of my Department. The criteria for grant approval are based on accident data, inspection of sites, locations showing demonstrable hazards and discussions between the local authority and the NRA.

On 26 July 2005, my Department invited applications for consideration for funding under the scheme in 2006. On 1 September 2005, Laois County Council submitted ten applications including one for remedial works at Money Cross at a cost of €262,000. The NRA, on behalf of my Department, is currently examining all low cost safety improvement proposals. I intend to announce details of individual allocations to local authorities under the scheme early in the new year.

Dáil Éireann debate - Tuesday, 6 Dec 2005

Labour Inspectorate.

Jack Wall

Seán Crowe

Joe Costello

Martin Ferris

Economic Competitiveness.

Paul Connaughton

Employment Rights.

Willie Penrose

Departmental Expenditure.

Bernard Allen

Proposed Legislation.

Eamon Gilmore

Jobs for People with Disabilities.

Dan Boyle

FÁS Training Programmes.

Pat Rabbitte

Departmental Programmes.

Jan O'Sullivan

Employment Rights.

Brian O'Shea

Economic Competitiveness.

Seymour Crawford

Mary Upton

Trevor Sargent

Unemployment Levels.

David Stanton

Community Employment Schemes.

Phil Hogan

Company Closures.

Damien English

Departmental Investigations.

Richard Bruton

Joe Costello

Job Creation.

Dinny McGinley

Economic Competitiveness.

Bernard J. Durkan

Bernard J. Durkan

Bernard J. Durkan

Bernard J. Durkan

Labour Inspectorate.

Jan O'Sullivan

Departmental Investigations.

Michael D. Higgins

Kathleen Lynch

Ministerial Appointments.

Ruairí Quinn

Departmental Appointments.

Olivia Mitchell

Industrial Development.

Jimmy Deenihan

Trade Liberalisation.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Eamon Ryan

Employment Rights.

Arthur Morgan

Seán Crowe

Jack Wall

Industrial Development.

Liam Twomey

County Enterprise Boards.

Denis Naughten

Labour Inspectorate.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Industrial Development.

Jimmy Deenihan

Unemployment Levels.

Dinny McGinley

County Enterprise Boards.

John Perry

Mergers and Acquisitions.

Eamon Ryan

County Enterprise Boards.

Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Dec 2005