Vol. 622 No. 4
30 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Finance the value of the tax relief for each year from 2000 to date in 2006 under capital allowances for the construction of private hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24944/06]
This relief was introduced in Finance Act 2001 and came into effect in May 2002. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that for the tax year 2003 and earlier years claims for the relief mentioned in the question were aggregated in tax returns with other claims and could not be distinguished from the reliefs claimed in respect of different schemes. Accordingly, the specific information on costs for 2002 and 2003 are not available.
Provisions were included in the Finance Act 2004 to allow this data to be obtained separately in future. As regards the tax year 2004, the latest year available, this information was included in personal income tax returns due for filing in October, 2005. Based on the information that has been received and collated to date, a total of €4.5 million was included in the relevant income tax returns for 2004 as claims for capital allowances for the construction of private hospitals. This figure would correspond to a maximum Exchequer cost of the order of €1.9 million for these returns in terms of income tax forgone. These figures are preliminary estimates and may change as further returns are processed. I should also point out, however, that Revenue are concerned at preliminary indications that in some instances the new, separately categorised data on property incentives may not have been correctly entered on the 2004 Income Tax returns. Revenue is engaging with the tax practitioner bodies to draw attention to these deficiencies and to rectify them. Revenue has also increased awareness among its own staff involved in processing tax returns of the need to ensure, through closer examination of the returns, that they are correctly completed.
Data for the tax years 2005 and 2006 is not yet available as the income tax returns for those years are not due for filing until October 2006 and October 2007 respectively.
It should be noted that the scheme of capital allowances for the construction of private hospitals was reviewed by Indecon Economic Consultants as part of the overall review of property tax incentives in 2005. Indecon consulted widely in the course of their review, including consultations with the Department of Health and Children and the Health Service Executive. Their report was published on 6 February 2006 and is available on the Department of Finance's website. The summary of the main findings from Indecon's analysis is as follows:
•‘There has been an overall increase in planning applications and approvals for private hospitals since 2000 but most have not proceeded to date.
•Most of the extra investment in the sector would either not have been undertaken, or would have taken longer to come on-line in the absence of the tax incentive scheme.
•While it is too early to provide detailed estimates of the impact of the scheme on the supply and on the costs of hospital beds, Indecon believes the scheme has the potential to address supply shortages in the sector and to reduce costs.'
The net cost of this measure to date was estimated by Indecon at €23m from 2002 to 2005. This cost will be spread over a number of years.
31 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons who claim to be non-resident for tax purposes. [24836/06]
There are no precise details on the numbers claiming such status although it is considered that the numbers are relatively small. The Revenue Commissioners audited nine such claims in 2005 and found nothing amiss.
The Revenue Commissioners tell me that a fuller picture of such claims will be available from October next when information on non-residence now required on tax forms since 2002 will be captured electronically.
32 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Finance his views on the merits of a proposal to remove VAT from business tourism costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24892/06]
The issue of allowing businesses to deduct VAT on conference related business expenses has been raised on a number of occasions in recent years. The Government's tourism action plan implementation group has recommended a change in the VAT rules to allow for the deductibility of VAT incurred by businesses on conference related expenditure, that is, hotel accommodation and meals. In this regard, its proposal distinguishes between routine business travel which is non-discretionary and a subset of business travel known as MICE — meetings, incentives, conferences and events — which would be discretionary. The main argument put forward in favour of the proposal is that it would allow Irish hotels to compete more favourably with their European counterparts for conference related business.
We do not currently allow businesses to recover VAT incurred in respect of hotel accommodation and meals. There is a similar block on deductibility for business cars and petrol. These restrictions were put in place to limit revenue loss and tax avoidance. EU VAT law allows such restrictions.
While it would, in theory, be possible to remove or reduce these restrictions, it would not then be possible under EU law to reinstate them in the future if we wished to do so. In addition, any scheme designed to remove or reduce these restrictions would have significant cost implications for the Exchequer. The Revenue Commissioners have estimated that if full deductibility was allowed on accommodation it could cost the Exchequer €90 million in VAT forgone in a full year. Allowing deductibility for meals and drink associated with business travel would vastly increase this figure. Furthermore, Article 17(6) of the Sixth VAT Directive limits the type of deductibility allowable to business expenses. This means there is no provision in EU law that would permit expenditure on entertainment to be allowable. Therefore, any scheme that would allow businesses to deduct VAT on accommodation and meals would have to take account of this fact.
The Revenue Commissioners have also raised concerns regarding potential abuse, and it is clear the design of a scheme that would allow businesses to deduct VAT on such expenses, even in a limited form, is complex.
However, as the Deputy will be aware from recent replies to similar questions on this issue, I want to make sure any such relief can work and does not open up the VAT system to other very costly demands. The examination of the matter is ongoing and in this regard my officials are in consultation with industry representatives. I will consider the matter in the context of next year's Budget.
33 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the reforms to the value for money and policy review process that he recently announced, the decentralisation policy will be undergoing an analogous review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24811/06]
I have no plans to carry out a formal review of the decentralisation programme under the value for money and policy review process.
As the Deputy will be aware, my predecessor announced in his Budget speech in December, 1999 that the Government intended to proceed with a new, more radical, programme of decentralisation. Since that announcement, my Department received submissions, representations and enquiries on behalf of more than 130 centres throughout the country seeking to be included in the new programme.
There was extensive consultation with interested parties including:—
•meetings at official level between the Department of Finance and other Departments and with each of the civil service staff unions;
•a meeting between the then Minister for Finance and the staff unions generally to hear the latter's views and concerns;
•the Strategic Management Initiative Implementation Group of Secretaries General provided advice, at the request of the Government, on how implementation of the new programme could enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the public service;
•Heads of relevant Departments provided views, at the request of the Government, on the experience of their respective Departments with the previous programme of decentralisation; and
•a major public service union provided advice, in response to an invitation from the then Minister for Finance on the development of criteria for the programme.
In coming to its Decision the Government took account of a wide range of factors in selecting suitable locations and departments and agencies for the new programme. I would refer the Deputy to page B.25 of the Summary of 2004 Budget Measures which describes the main factors taken into account.
Immediately following the announcement of the programme, a Decentralisation Implementation Group was appointed to prepare an overall implementation plan in co-operation with all of the organisations involved. The overall programme is being driven forward by this Group, which produced major reports on Decentralisation in March and June 2004, and further reports on the timing and sequencing of moves in November 2004 and June 2005. These reports dealt comprehensively with the people, business and property aspects of the Programme. All of the recommendations of the Group have been accepted by the Government.
All Departments and Offices have produced implementation plans setting out the detailed arrangements they are putting in place to plan for relocation while also ensuring business continuity and effective delivery of services to customers. The plans are comprehensive and their preparation involved detailed reviews of business processes as well as the logistics of the move. Departments and Offices have been proactive in identifying potential risks to service delivery and in developing strategies to ensure that such risks are managed during the transition phase.
Having already met with a number of Secretaries General, the Decentralisation Implementation Group is currently meeting with some of the Chief Executives of State Agencies to discuss their Implementation Plans, the planning framework in place, to assess progress to date and to hear about the challenges arising and steps proposed to address them.
In relation to cost issues, the Deputy will be aware that the property costs of the Programme are being managed by the OPW, which reports regularly to the Decentralisation Implementation Group on all the property aspects of the Programme.
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.
At the request of the Implementation Group, the Department of Finance has issued guidelines to Departments and Offices on the capture of data on non-property costs, including transition costs such as knowledge transfer and training as well as any ongoing costs and savings. The guidelines are based on A Financial Assessment of Decentralisation Costs and Savings which was prepared by Dolomites and published in November 2004. Costs are being captured as they arise and the overall position will be assessed periodically by the Group.
I am satisfied that the reports of the Implementation Group, together with the implementation plans prepared by decentralising Departments, provide a solid basis for implementing the Programme, and see no merit in conducting an impact assessment of the type referred to.
34 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied regarding the tax treatment of families with children to support. [24906/06]
This Government acknowledge the continuing cost pressures on parents, particularly those with young children.
The Government have substantially increased Child Benefit since coming into office in 1997. From April this year Child Benefit payments have increased to €150 per month for the first and second children and €185 for the third and subsequent children. Overall expenditure on Child Benefit has increased by 279% from €506 million in 1997 to just over €2 billion in 2006.
In addition, in Budget 2006 I announced a new Early Childcare Supplement of €1,000 in a full year for each child up to his or her sixth birthday. This new payment, along with increases in Child Benefit, brings the amount a family will receive, for each of the first two children under six years, to €2,800 per year, equivalent to over €50 per week in direct financial tax exempt support. This will be even higher where a family has more than two children under six.
On the supply side, the provision of formal childcare places is being stimulated through a programme of investment under the new five year National Childcare Investment Programme which I announced in Budget 2006. When combined with the existing Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme, this means that between 2006 and 2010 some 65,000 additional places will be funded.
In total, over €2.5 billion extra will be invested in the area of child support over the next five years.
Measures have also been taken by the Government to favour the supply of childcare by tax incentives to set up facilities and provide relief from benefit-in-kind taxation for free or subsidised childcare where this is provided by employers. Taken together, these represent substantial measures to assist with the cost of childcare.
In addition, the tax system treats parents with dependent children more favourably than persons with no dependent children, in recognition of the additional financial burden associated with parenthood. This is done mainly through the one parent family tax credit, the widowed parent tax credit, the incapacitated child tax credit and the home carer tax credit. Also, persons who qualify for the one parent family tax credit, including widowed parents, qualify for the associated standard rate band cut off point which is €36,000 in 2006. This is €4,000 greater than that which applies for a single person.
35 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance the progress of the consultation process promised in advance of the introduction of a new National Development Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24960/06]
42 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Finance the criteria for selection for projects to be included in the National Development Plan as part of his strategy statement on the new programme; and if he will request that the rating for each subsequent project selected for inclusion will be simultaneously published under these criteria. [24920/06]
54 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance his plans for the ring fencing of funding under the next National Development Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24638/06]
83 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the next National Development Plan should be funded within existing capital envelopes; and the flexibility which exists to relax the envelope. [24884/06]
94 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Finance when he expects the ESRI’s evaluation of investment priorities for the forthcoming National Development Plan to be made public. [24805/06]
111 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance his plans for funding under the next National Development Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24639/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35, 42, 54, 83, 94 and 111 together.
As I indicated when I addressed the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Finance and the Public Service on June 14th last on the issue of the new NDP, the next Plan will be a high level strategic document setting out at Programme level Government investment priorities over the period to 2013. These priorities will be informed by the need to tackle infrastructure deficits, promote regional development and social inclusion and generally invest for competitiveness.
As I stated in my address to the Committee, the 7 year financial allocations set out in the Plan will be at national level, indicative in nature and subject to the overriding requirement of resource availability. Given that the allocations encompass 7 years, it would be unrealistic to suggest that they can be set in stone. I can, however, assure the House that the level of commitment will be ambitious and the Government will be determined to see it delivered. The indicative nature of the allocations will allow sufficient flexibility to adapt appropriately to changing circumstances over the next seven years with particular regard to economic and budgetary sustainability.
A wide consultation process on the Plan has been undertaken by my Department. Submissions were invited from a wide range of organisations and social partners and regional bodies. To date, submissions received include ones from IBEC, ICTU, the CIF, Chambers Ireland, the Irish Exporters Association, the Irish Tourism Confederation, the IFA, Comhar, the Heritage Council, the Combat Poverty Agency, the Western Development Commission, the two Regional Assemblies and all the Regional Authorities. In addition, I invited the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Finance and the Public Service to make a submission on the Plan and, as already stated, I appeared before the Committee in this regard on 14th June last. My Department has also been having follow-up meetings with many of the organisations who have made submissions and this process is continuing.
The Economic and Social Research Institute were engaged last November, following a competitive tendering process, to carry out an ex-ante evaluation of investment priorities for the next NDP. I understand that the evaluation is nearing completion. When finished, the evaluation will be submitted to Government.
As the Plan will be a high level strategic investment framework, it will not be a list of projects. The projects will flow over the period of the Plan consistent with the investment strategy outlined in the Plan. I would stress, however, that the achievement of Value for Money at project level will be central to NDP investment, especially capital investment. This will require rigorous appraisal and best practice management of all capital projects by implementing Agencies and Departments. My Department's February 2005 Capital Appraisal Guidelines and the enhanced VFM measures which I announced in October last will be fully applied by Departments and implementing agencies in the process of project selection.
36 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide information on the taxation arrangements of landlords, in particular details on the number of landlords who receive their income from the community welfare rental allowance and the number of houses that are rented in this manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24940/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that landlords are liable to Income Tax on their net rental income, which is calculated by reducing gross rents by allowable deductions such as mortgage interest, repairs, maintenance and insurance. By virtue of a provision of this year's Finance Act, from 2006 onwards the deductibility of mortgage interest is dependent on the landlord meeting the statutory requirements regarding registration with the Private Residential Tenancies Board.
Neither my Department nor the Revenue Commissioners maintain any detailed statistics regarding the number of landlords nor the number of properties that come within the scope of the rent supplement scheme, which is administered by the Health Service Executive on behalf of the Minister for Social & Family Affairs. There is essentially no difference in the Income Tax treatment of rent received from private tenants and rent subsidies received under the community welfare allowance scheme.
37 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance the ethical investment guidelines which are being adopted in respect of investments and investment vehicles such as the National Pensions Reserve Fund under the remit of his Department; if such investments are made in accordance with United Nations Guidelines on Ethical Investments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24968/06]
Under the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000, the National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission controls and is responsible for the investment of the National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF). It has discretionary authority to determine the Fund's investment strategy in accordance with the Fund's statutory investment policy of securing the optimal total financial return provided the level of risk to the moneys held or invested is acceptable to the Commission.
The Commission is a founder signatory to the Principles for Responsible Investment. The Principles were launched by the UN Secretary General in New York on 27 April last and have, to date, been signed by 35 of the world's largest institutional investment funds.
The aim of the Principles is to integrate consideration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues into investment decision-making and ownership practices. Signatories commit to the following:
1. To incorporate ESG issues into investment analysis and decision-making processes;
2. To be active owners and incorporate ESG issues into ownership policies and practices;
3. To seek appropriate disclosure on ESG issues by the entities in which they invest;
4. To promote acceptance and implementation of the Principles within the investment industry;
5. To work together to enhance their effectiveness in implementing the Principles; and
6. To report on activities and progress towards implementing the Principles.
In announcing its decision to sign the Principles, the NPRF Commission said the launch of the Principles is the beginning of a process which will see the Fund taking account of environmental, social and governance factors in its investment strategies and becoming a more engaged shareholder in the companies in which it invests. It said it would be taking specific measures to implement the Principles. Actions it is planning to take over the first 12 months include:
•Development and implementation of a comprehensive proxy voting policy;
•Development of an engagement capacity with investee companies on ESG issues; and
•Refinement of its investment manager selection process to include specific consideration of ESG issues.
The Commission stressed that incorporation of environmental, social and governance issues into the NPRF's investment and operating framework is a long-term project and it would be taking further implementing actions as its capacity in the area develops.
On my own behalf, I would like to add that I welcome the launch of the Principles. I believe they represent a significant step towards ensuring that investors take into consideration the environmental, social and corporate governance aspects of the businesses in which they invest. The application of the Principles should not only lead to better long-term financial returns but also to a closer alignment between the objectives of institutional investors and those of society at large. I am pleased that the National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission is a signatory to the Principles and is planning to undertake a number of measures over the next twelve months to implement them in relation to its activities.
38 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has prepared proposals in respect of pension reform in the context of the social partnership talks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24875/06]
In the new National Partnership agreement "Towards 2016", the Government has agreed, as part of the pay, workplace and employment rights and compliance elements of the agreement, to engage with employers and trade unions in the context of its formulation of a comprehensive approach to future pensions policy. This overall review of pensions policy, which will be facilitated by the Department of An Taoiseach and which will also involve input from other relevant Departments such as Social and Family Affairs, Enterprise, Trade and Employment and Finance, will include the publication of a Green Paper to outline the major policy choices and challenges in this area. The Government will take account of the views of all the social partners and is committed to responding to such views on foot of the Green Paper in the development of a framework for comprehensively addressing the pensions agenda over the longer term.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the pensions agenda is a very significant and wide ranging one. Many issues will need to be addressed and considered in the formulation of the Green Paper and follow up processes envisaged in the agreement. These will include not only the adequacy and sustainability of the present system but also the social, fiscal, economic and competitiveness impact of changes to the system that will fall to be considered.
39 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the estimated value of the National Pensions Reserve Fund investments as at close of business on 31 May and 21 June 2006; the comparative figures for 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24967/06]
The National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission, which controls and is responsible for the investment of the National Pensions Reserve Fund, publishes Fund values on a quarterly basis. The latest published figure is for 31 March 2006 when the Fund's value was €16,612m. The equivalent figure for 31 March 2005 was €12,309m. I understand that the Commission will publish figures for 30 June 2006 in July.
The establishment of the National Pensions Reserve Fund has placed Ireland at the forefront of countries preparing for the issues caused by population ageing. It is widely seen as an example of international best practice in this area, and France and New Zealand have since established very similar funds.
The Fund is managed by an expert Commission which is independent of Government in the exercise of its functions. Indeed the Commission is in a very similar position to the trustees of private pension funds and it controls and manages the Fund with discretionary authority to determine and implement its investment strategy. This has given the Commission the freedom to develop, outside of the political process, a long-term investment strategy primarily based on a diversified portfolio of assets. Indeed a long-term State fund with no need for liquidity and no requirement to match liabilities on a yearly basis has some clear advantages in seeking to maximise long-term investment returns.
In its Annual Review 2005, the Commission points out that equity markets are volatile and that returns of 2005's magnitude, when the Fund earned a return of 19.6% or €2.4 billion, should not be regarded as the norm. However, as a long-term investor, the Commission is prepared to accept this volatility. It goes on to state that the biggest risk it could run would be to take an over-cautious investment approach and thus reduce the Fund's potential contribution to Ireland's increasing pension costs. I believe this is a crucial point. I am aware and I accept that the appropriate investment strategy for a long-term fund with no drawdowns for twenty years can lead to short-term volatility. There were those who did not accept this point when the Fund experienced negative returns in 2002 and criticised both the Government for establishing the Fund and the Commission for its investment strategy. In view of the critical role of the Fund in meeting the long-term costs of population ageing in Ireland, I would hope that the rational, long-term perspective underlying the establishment of the Fund would be accepted by all.
40 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on the recent settlement made between the Revenue Commissioners and property developers (details supplied) reportedly to the sum of €25 million; if further investigations of the company will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24938/06]
As the Deputy is aware I cannot, for reasons of taxpayer confidentiality, comment on the tax affairs of individual cases. I can however confirm that the details of a settlement with a building company, in the sum of €22,169,642, were published yesterday in the latest quarterly list compiled by the Revenue Commissioners in accordance with the provisions of Section 1086 of the Taxes Consolidated Act, 1997. The settlement included tax, interest and penalties.
The Revenue Commissioners are committed to tackling tax evasion in a robust and professional manner, using the powers provided in the various Finance Acts, and in particular those provided in the Finance Act 1999. They adopt a risk based approach and the outcomes from their ongoing audit and compliance programmes together with the major investigation projects which they have undertaken, are an indication of the success of their strategies.
41 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Finance his views on recent observations by the president of the ECB on the role of the Government in the housing market here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24894/06]
I noted the ECB president's comments. As I have said in previous replies to questions, the Government is doing its part by continuing to run a prudent, stability-oriented budgetary policy which gives us room for manoeuvre in the event of an economic downturn, whatever the cause. We are not borrowing to fund our planned major infrastructural investment programme and this investment will help sustain future growth.
In addition, I announced in Budget 2006 that a range of specific property-related tax incentive schemes were to be discontinued, on foot of a comprehensive review of the schemes undertaken by independent consultants in the course of 2005. In line with the recommendations of the consultants, the 2006 Finance Bill provides that the tax schemes in question, several of which include a significant housing component, will be discontinued on a transitional basis, with full tax relief available for qualifying expenditure in 2006, and with decreasing levels of relief available in 2007 and in the period from January to end-July 2008, after which the relief will not be available. The gradual phasing-out of the tax relief schemes is designed to avoid any sudden shock to the construction sector generally, having regard to the important contribution of this sector to Irish economic growth at present.
Finally, individual borrowers and lenders should be aware of their own responsibility and the need to be sensible in the housing market.
43 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Finance the added cost in terms of public service pay in 2006, 2007 and 2008, and in terms of additional programme expenditures in these years of the agreed outcome of the social partnership negotiations. [24876/06]
Pay — The public service pay agreement under Towards 2016 provides for a pay increase of 10% over a twenty-seven month period with an initial five months' pay pause. This increase is to apply as follows:
•3% from 1 December 2006
•2% from 1 June 2007
•2.5% from 1 March 2008, and
•2.5% from 1 September 2008.
It is estimated that the cumulative cost of implementing these increases is €45m in 2006, €750m in 2007 and €1,465m in 2008.
The payment of these increases will be dependent, in the case of each sector, organisation and grade, on verification of co-operation with flexibility and ongoing change, including co-operation with satisfactory implementation of the agenda for modernisation set out in the Agreement, maintenance of stable industrial relations and absence of industrial action in respect of any matters covered by the Agreement. Payment will be dependent on verification of satisfactory achievement of these provisions.
The new social partnership agreement "Towards 2016" also contains a wide ranging "non-pay" social agenda. Chapter three of the agreement sets out the social agenda in a "Lifecycle" framework which seeks to assess the risk and hazards, and corresponding supports, available to people at each stage of the lifecycle.
This part of the agreement, of necessity, seeks to incorporate and reflect the existing medium to long term strategies that are already in place in the broad social area such as NAP inclusion and the related revised National Anti-Poverty Strategy, the National Children's Strategy, the five year Childcare Strategy announced in Budget 2006, the national action plan for educational inclusion (DEIS), the National Disability Strategy as well as particular health, care and housing initiatives.
The further finance required for the ongoing implementation of the various measures will be considered in the context of the annual estimates and budgetary framework, subject to, as provided for in the agreement, overall macro fiscal and economic constraints. For example, the new social partnership agreement contains an objective to achieve the current revised National Anti-Poverty target of increasing the lowest adult social welfare rate to €150 per week in 2002 terms by 2007 and, subject to available resources, to maintain the value of rates at that level over the course of the agreement. Such a commitment will obviously have cost implications but the extent of such costs from year to year will be a matter for decision by Government in the context of the annual budget.
The agreement does provide for a number of additional specific social initiatives across a number of Departments, including Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Education and Science, Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Social and Family Affairs and Health and Children. The relevant Ministers will be able to provide details of the measures within their respective remits but the overall costs of these initiatives with consequent resource implications will be managed in the overall context of Government expenditure by prioritisation in its allocation decisions within the Estimates and Budget process over the next three years.
On the farming side, discussions are still continuing between the farming pillar and my colleague the Minister for Agriculture and Food.
44 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Finance the number and type of State body positions which will be affected by the increase in chairperson’s salaries recently approved by Cabinet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24808/06]
The level of the fees payable to the non-executive chairpersons of State bodies was revised by Government at its meeting on 20 June 2006. The revised fees are payable with effect from 1 January 2006.
The Government decided to increase the fees payable to ordinary board members and directors of State bodies by roughly the amount of the increase payable to senior civil servants in the period since the last review of fees was conducted in 2001. This level of increase was also applied to the fees payable to the chairpersons of the smaller State bodies.
However, the Government recognised that the level of commitment required from the chairpersons of the most important State bodies was not adequately remunerated. Accordingly, it was decided that the fees payable to the chairpersons of the largest and most complex State bodies should be increased by a larger amount to reflect the workload of these positions. In this case, it was decided that the fees payable to the chairpersons of such boards should be double that payable to the ordinary members or directors of those boards.
The Government also decided that the chairpersons of a second tier of State bodies were not adequately remunerated for their contributions. In this case, it was decided to raise the fees payable to chairpersons of such boards so that the fee was just over 70% more than the fee payable to the ordinary members or directors of those boards.
The fees payable to the chairpersons and members of State boards depend on the size and complexity of the bodies they govern. In order to determine what level of fee is appropriate, State bodies are divided into four categories, depending on the pay of their chief executives. The level of remuneration of the chief executive is an objective assessment of the relative importance and complexity of the bodies concerned.
The fee which the Government decided should now be payable to the chairpersons of the largest State bodies — Category 1 — is €35,000. The fee payable to the chairpersons of the second tier of State bodies is €24,000. The fees payable to the chairpersons of the smallest state bodies — Categorises 3 and 4 — are €14,000 and €10,500 respectively.
I consider that, even after the application of the increases, the fees payable are modest relative to those payable to chairpersons and members of boards of private sector companies of comparable size.
The Deputy should consult with other Ministers for information on the numbers of positions in State bodies under their aegis which are affected by the increase in chairpersons' fees. I will provide the information on bodies under the aegis of my own Department, as soon as it has been collated.
45 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether there should be regulation of home reversion products whereby older people sell part of the house to release equity. [24909/06]
Home reversion products primarily involve the sale of a part of the interest in a property. Unlike Equity Release Mortgages they do not constitute a financial service that would be subject to supervision by the Financial Regulator. At present it is understood that there are two companies who offer this product on the Irish market. Since this activity involves selling part of a home, as opposed to taking out a loan, it currently does not fall within the remit of the Financial Regulator.
However, I recognise that there are important similarities in purpose and procedures between both Home Reversion and Equity Release types of transactions and that both products could compete for the same type of customers.
I am also aware that the question of regulating the providers of these products has been discussed with the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Finance and the Public Service by the Financial Regulator.
In view of the above considerations, my Department together with the Financial Regulator, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government are currently undertaking a review to examine the issues that arise in relation to the case for regulation of home reversion products and/or the providers of such products.
46 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Finance his views on the prospect that first time buyers will be excluded from the housing market if interest rates increase as forecasted to 3.5 percent in 2007, causing first time mortgage limits to fall by up to €100,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24936/06]
This Government has already taken measures that seek to address problems faced by first time buyers. The situation is kept under review each year at budget time.
Fiscal measures which support first-time buyers include preferential stamp duty rates for first-time owner-occupiers of second-hand houses, who are exempt from stamp duty on properties valued at €317,500 or less with reduced rates applying on properties valued from €317,500 up to €635,000. First-time owner-occupiers are also exempt from stamp duty on new properties with a floor size of 125 square metres or less.
There are also mortgage interest rate reliefs which give preferential treatment to first time buyers.
47 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance if arrangements will be made that the Information Commissioner is consulted in assessing the merits of extending the Freedom of Information Act 1997 to the vocational educational committees, IFSRA, Adoption Board, An Garda Síochána and so on in order that the Ministers and Government have access to the full range of expertise available in making such decisions. [24931/06]
I have no proposals for the Information Commissioner to be consulted in relation to the merits of extending the FOI Act to the bodies mentioned by the Deputy.
48 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the percentage in 2005, or the latest available figures, of persons who avail of tax relief in respect of pension contributions who are from the lowest decile of income earners; and the percentage which are from the highest decile of income earners. [24833/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the most recent relevant information available is in respect of income tax relief allowed for contributions to "retirement annuity contracts" for the income tax year 2002, which are available to the self-employed and to employees not in occupational pension schemes.
Obviously the capacity to avail of a tax relief depends on one's income and whether one is in the tax net or not, which most low income earners are not. Therefore, it should not be a surprise that on the basis of this Revenue data, some 364, or 0.2%, of the lowest decile of income earners on tax records were able to avail of this relief whereas some 37,000 or 20.3% of the highest decile of income earners used it to provide for pensions.
It is not possible to provide corresponding figures in regard to the take-up of the tax relief for pension contributions by employers and employees as the relevant data are not captured in such a way as to make this possible.
The information on incomes is based on income returns on Revenue records at the time the data were compiled for analytical purposes, representing about 95% of all returns expected.
A married couple who have elected or have been deemed to have elected for joint assessment are counted as one tax unit.
49 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Finance the negotiations which have taken place regarding the placement of persons who do not opt to decentralise with their units or agencies; and the proposals which the Government have made to unions. [24902/06]
The primary mechanism for placing general service civil servants who are in posts which are due to decentralise but wish to remain in Dublin is by way of bilateral transfer. As staff who have applied to decentralise continue to be transferred into decentralising organisations, the posts they vacate become available to those wishing to remain in Dublin. It is expected that a significant number of staff will be placed through these bilateral arrangements as the programme is rolled out. To end June 2006 in excess of 1,700 staff have been assigned to decentralising posts, of which over 800 are Dublin based applicants.
In addition, officials of my Department have agreed arrangements with the general service civil service unions which are facilitating the placement of Dublin based staff. Under these arrangements, details of staff who wish to remain in Dublin at each grade level are provided to the Public Appointments Service so that a proportion of vacancies arising in Dublin based posts may be filled by those staff. It is intended that these arrangements will continue over the full transition phase of the decentralisation programme.
Participation in these arrangements by Departments and Offices will be influenced by their timeframe for moving, their success in placing staff through the bilateral arrangements, whether they are relocating in full or in part and the extent to which their staff can be placed elsewhere within the organisation in Dublin.
This issue is the subject of ongoing discussions between my Department and the unions representing the professional and technical grades in the civil service.
50 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Finance the number of women and men in each category or grade of public service appointment of principal officer level and above for his Department, the Revenue Commissioners, the Office of Public Work, and agencies under the remit of his Department. [24969/06]
The following is a breakdown by gender of the staff in each category/grade at Principal level and above in my Department and offices/agencies under the remit of my department:
|
Department of Finance |
Male |
Female |
|
Secretary General |
5 |
0 |
|
Chief Medical Officer |
1 |
0 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
11 |
0 |
|
Deputy Chief Medical Officer |
0 |
1 |
|
Director* |
2 |
1 |
|
Principal |
44 |
14 |
*The Head of Corporate Services Division is included here.
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Male |
Female |
|
Secretary General |
2 |
1 |
|
Deputy Secretary |
1 |
0 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
13 |
2 |
|
Principal |
122 |
25 |
|
Office of Public Works |
Male |
Female |
|
Chairman |
1 |
0 |
|
Commissioner |
1 |
1 |
|
Director of Architectural Services |
1 |
0 |
|
Director of Engineering Services |
1 |
0 |
|
Principal |
12 |
1 |
|
Assistant Principal Architect |
5 |
1 |
|
Assistant Chief Engineer |
4 |
0 |
|
Head of Maintenance |
1 |
0 |
|
Head of Quantity Surveying |
1 |
0 |
|
Art Adviser |
1 |
0 |
|
Comptroller & Auditor General |
Male |
Female |
|
Secretary |
1 |
0 |
|
Director of Audit |
2 |
0 |
|
Deputy Director of Audit |
10 |
2 |
|
Central Bank & Financial Services Authority of Ireland |
Male |
Female |
|
Director General |
2 |
0 |
|
Deputy Director General |
1 |
0 |
|
Assistant Director General |
4 |
1 |
|
Manager |
20 |
5 |
|
Deputy Manager |
25 |
8 |
|
State Laboratory |
Male |
Female |
|
State Chemist |
1 |
0 |
|
Principal Chemist |
2 |
0 |
|
Valuation Office |
Male |
Female |
|
Commissioner of Valuation |
1 |
0 |
|
Principal |
0 |
2 |
|
Managing Valuer |
8 |
0 |
|
Ordnance Survey Ireland |
Male |
Female |
|
Chief Executive |
0 |
1 |
|
General Manager |
4 |
0 |
|
Commission for Public Service Appointments |
Male |
Female |
|
Principal |
1 |
0 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Male |
Female |
|
Chief Executive |
1 |
0 |
|
Principal |
2 |
1 |
|
Office of the Ombudsman |
Male |
Female |
|
Director General |
1 |
0 |
|
Senior Investigator |
6 |
1 |
|
National Lottery |
Male |
Female |
|
Director |
1 |
0 |
|
Chief Accountant |
1 |
0 |
|
Head of Marketing |
1 |
0 |
|
Head of Operations & Corporate Affairs |
1 |
0 |
|
Operations Manager |
1 |
0 |
|
National Treasury Management Agency |
Male |
Female |
|
Total employees at all levels within the Organisation |
60 |
54 |
51 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has conducted an assessment on the potential effects of a stock market slump on the economy here in view of recent turbulence in the markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24964/06]
My Department is projecting GDP growth of 4.8 per cent this year with broadly similar growth rates in the following two years. Recent stock market changes have not altered this view to any significant degree.
52 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance if he has had discussions with the Central Bank and Financial Regulator regarding indebtedness and the criteria for lending products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24880/06]
112 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance if he has had discussions with the Financial Regulator on the subject of interest only mortgages; his views on the fact that interest only mortgages are being encouraged by the banking sector with some banks providing 100 per cent mortgages with interest only repayments; if he intends to take measures to regulate the provision of interest only mortgages on family homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24934/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 112 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, within the implementation of the overall legislative framework, private sector credit growth and debt levels are, in the first instance, a matter for the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland. This follows from its role as part of the European System of Central Banks and its functions, as the Financial Regulator, in relation to the prudential supervision of financial institutions, including mortgage providers, and the protection of the consumers of those firms.
As far as looking after the interests of the individual borrower is concerned, the function of Government is therefore to provide an appropriate legislative framework for regulation of the financial services sector — one that is both comprehensive and robust. I am satisfied that, on foot of the progress made over recent years, especially in establishing the Financial Regulator with a particular focus on the interests of the consumer, we have such a framework in place.
The Financial Regulator has developed a number of specific initiatives to help consumers make informed choices in terms of their financial products. These initiatives have been developed through the framework of the Financial Regulator's "It's Your Money" campaign and have involved publishing consumer guides on credit products, fact sheets, cost surveys on personal loans, all of which are intended to assist borrowers in making the most appropriate credit decisions given their circumstances.
A further strengthening of the regulatory framework for consumers will be achieved through the introduction of the Financial Regulator's proposed Consumer Protection Code shortly. This Code will place obligations on regulated entities that provide mortgages which include the requirement to act in their customers' best interests by ensuring that they seek appropriate information about a consumer so that they know and understand their customers' needs. Such entities must also ensure that the provision of mortgages which are suitable to each individual consumer and that they treat their customers fairly, including by ensuring adequate procedures are in place in relation to the handling of arrears cases. These obligations will be additional to the statutory prior information and warnings required under the Consumer Credit Act 1995.
As far as the choice of mortgage product is concerned, there is a high degree of competition in the Irish mortgage market, providing a wide choice of competitively priced products, including those referred to by the Deputy. The choice of mortgage product ultimately rests with the consumer and the lending institution concerned. The preference of borrowers is influenced by factors such as their personal circumstances and their own assessment of the relative merits of the mortgage products on offer.
It would not be appropriate for me in my role as Minister for Finance to seek to promote one type of mortgage product ahead of another. The information being made available by the Financial Regulator, together with the statutory information and warnings in the case of mortgages, serve as an adequate basis for consumers to make a decision about the type of mortgage which best suits them. Mortgage lending practices are closely supervised by the Financial Regulator with appropriate stress testing of borrowers' ability to meet their obligations, not just in the current economically favourable circumstances, but also in more challenging times.
As the Deputy may be aware, the Financial Regulator has recently announced a technical prudential measure requiring financial institutions to put more capital aside for higher LTV (Loan to Value) loans. This reinforces the message consistently conveyed to lending institutions by the Regulator that mortgage lending policies and practices should be prudent and responsible.
Finally, my Department liaises with the Financial Regulator on an ongoing basis on a range of issues relating to my Department's responsibilities for the legislative framework for the regulation of financial services. The Central Bank's Quarterly Bulletin, Financial Stability Report and Annual Report also play an important role in providing information and analysis to my Department on the exercise of the Central Bank's responsibilities and its assessment of macro economic and financial conditions in the economy.
53 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on the work of the Revenue Commissioners in monitoring the use of Section 50 Finance Act 1999 that provides tax relief to developers of student accommodation; if he will further report on the number of Section 50 residences that have been found to be inhabited by non-students and the number of developers that have been challenged on same under the anti-avoidance programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24941/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that they are not aware of any significant abuses of the so-called "Section 50" scheme of relief for the construction of student accommodation. However, Revenue have noted recent newspaper reports of claims made by the Union of Students in Ireland that some Section 50 apartments are being let to non-students during college terms. I am informed that Revenue have followed up with the person making the claim and will be meeting the USI shortly to discuss their concerns. If there is evidence of abuse in this area, I am assured that Revenue will take appropriate action.
There are no figures available for the number of the 14,000 or so Revenue audits carried out in 2005 that looked specifically at claims under the "Section 50" scheme of relief. While no cases appear to have been specifically selected for audit in this area, Revenue are aware that, in the normal course of audit in 2005, a small number of cases were in fact examined where the relief had been claimed. In the particular cases examined there was no evidence to suggest that the guidelines were not complied with or that the relief had been abused.
55 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied in regard to the level of supervision exercised by the Revenue Commissioners at points of entry, in particular in regard to the illegal tobacco trade; if he will report on the estimated value of tax revenue lost through the import of counterfeit cigarettes in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24955/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that manning levels at points of entry into the State and enforcement strategy generally are continuously monitored and reviewed in line with the perceived threat or risk of evasion. This applies to all areas that the Revenue Commissioners have responsibility for policing including excisable products that include tobacco products and prohibited goods that include drugs.
In the case of cigarette and tobacco smuggling, during 2005, a total of 51.28 million cigarettes and 1,108 kilograms of tobacco were seized. Seizures up to the end of May 2006 amounted to 26.5 million cigarettes and 972 kilograms of tobacco compared with 22.7 million cigarettes and 179 kilograms of tobacco that were seized during the same period in 2005. In Dublin Airport alone, approximately 2 million cigarettes have been seized by Customs each month since the beginning of the year. In late 2005 Revenue took delivery of a Mobile Container Scanner and this has significantly enhanced detection capability. I can advise the Deputy that the scanner has been instrumental in identifying over 7 million cigarettes concealed in maritime containers.
As regards the amount of revenue being lost due to the penetration of the market by contraband and counterfeit cigarettes, while this is always difficult to calculate, I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that cigarette clearances on which excise duty has been collected up to the end of May 2006, show an increase of 0.3% compared with the same period in 2005. In addition, following the detection of bogus Irish tax stamps on a total of 5.65 million counterfeit cigarettes smuggled from Ukraine and China last year, a nationwide operation was mounted in November to ascertain if cigarettes with bogus Irish tax stamps were being sold on the market. In the course of this operation 837 premises, which included retail shops, pubs, off-licences, nightclubs and other outlets, were visited and no such packs were found. A new form of tax stamp with additional security features has been introduced in the meantime.
It is the view of the Revenue Commissioners that the level of penetration of the market by contraband and counterfeit cigarettes remains low.
56 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Finance the revenue raised by each stamp duty on credit or cash card facilities and on bank transactions; and if he will undertake a review of these duties. [24921/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the net receipts from stamp duty on credit cards, cash cards and cheques in 2005 were as follows:
|
€m |
|
|
Credit card account and charge card |
63.8 |
|
ATM card without a ‘Laser’ function |
22.4 |
|
‘Laser’ card without an ATM function |
3.3 |
|
Combined ATM and ‘Laser’ card |
12.2 |
|
Cheques |
16.5 |
|
Total |
118.2 |
All stamp duties, including the stamp duties on financial cards and bank transactions are reviewed in the context of the annual Budget and Finance Bill.
57 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance when the contract will be signed with the owner of the property in Listowel that will facilitate the decentralisation of 50 Revenue staff to Listowel, Co. Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24831/06]
The Commissioners of Public Works have informed me that terms have been agreed and contract documents are awaited in relation to a leased building in Listowel that will facilitate the decentralisation of Revenue staff to Listowel.
Contracts will only be entered into when the legal documentation is to the satisfaction of the Chief State Solicitor.
58 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Finance the latest information available from the central applications facility in respect of applications from civil servants and other public servants currently located in Dublin who wish to transfer to new locations outside of Dublin under the Government’s decentralisation programme; the way in which this compares with the Government target of 10,300; if agreement has been reached with all public service unions regarding promotional opportunities for those who choose to move and those who opt to remain where they are; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24949/06]
Over ten and a half thousand civil and public servants applied on the Central Applications Facility to relocate under the government's Decentralisation Programme. Over 9,000 of the applications are from civil servants and over 1,000 are from public servants. Over 50% of the applications are from staff currently based in Dublin.
1,700 civil servants have already been assigned to posts which will relocate. Therefore, almost 25% of the total numbers of civil service posts involved in the programme have been filled. Over half of these assignees were Dublin based.
In the civil service, progress has been made in discussions with the general service unions on promotion arrangements. Discussions are ongoing with the unions representing the professional and technical grades in the civil service. I am hopeful this and other implementation issues arising in the state agency sector can be discussed with the relevant unions with a view to arriving at arrangements which support the decentralisation process while also meeting the concerns of staff. In the meantime, practices in decentralising organisations relating to recruitment, promotion, etc. must take account of the reality of decentralisation.
59 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has collated data on the performance of the National Development Plan against target in terms of physical project delivery, outcomes and cost performance. [24916/06]
98 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has collated data on the performance of the National Development Plan against target in terms of physical project delivery, outcomes and cost performance. [24874/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 59 and 98 together.
Performance indicators at programme and priority level are included in the Operational Programme documents and at measure (and sub-measure) level in the programme complement documents. The monitoring indicators allow progress to be measured in terms of reaching objectives and targets, the impact and results of expenditure and the progress of the financing plan.
Each Operational Programme has a Managing Authority which monitors financial and physical output targets. Each Implementing Agency is required to supply physical and financial progress to the Operational Programme Monitoring Committee meetings held in the Spring and Autumn. The Progress reports for these are available from the respective Managing Authorities for the Operational Programmes as set out below.
|
Operational Programme |
Managing Authority |
|
Economic and Social Infrastructure OP |
Department of Environment and Local Government |
|
Employment and Human Resources OP |
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment |
|
Productive Sector OP |
Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment |
|
S&E Regional OP |
Southern & Eastern Regional Assembly |
|
BMW Regional OP |
Border, Midland & Western Regional Assembly |
|
Peace OP |
Special EU Programmes Body |
|
Technical Assistance OP |
Department of Finance |
The Operational Programme Monitoring Committee reports include a description of physical progress of each measure for the six month reporting period and since the beginning of the Programme, accompanied by the appropriate table of physical indicators. They also include a standard financial table which provides information of each measure by EU co-financed and non co-financed expenditure, national contributions, EU contribution and private financing.
These reports are collated and presented to the NDP/CSF Monitoring Committee which is chaired by my Department. This Committee plays an active role in the monitoring of the NDP/CSF and meets at least twice yearly to review progress being made towards achieving objectives and targets. The Committee is made up of a wide partnership of interests, including implementing Departments, the social partners, sectoral interests, and members of local authorities representing the regional assemblies.
This Committee reviews the progress being made towards achieving objectives and targets. Monitoring is carried out by reference to physical and financial indicators.
In addition to the ongoing monitoring, mid term evaluations of the NDP/CSF and of the individual Operational Programmes were carried out in 2003 the purpose of which was to provide an analysis of both progress under the programmes and of developments in the external environment. An update evaluation of the CSF was completed in December 2005 which provided a synthesis of overall CSF progress in both financial and physical terms to end 2004.
60 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Finance the number of investigations which have been carried out by Revenue as to the veracity of declarations by persons claiming to be non-resident for tax purpose regarding the number of days spent here in a given tax year; and the number of cases where it has been found that false declarations have been made. [24838/06]
I am assuming that the Deputy's question relates to individuals rather than companies.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that enquiries relating to residence are a feature of the risk-based audit programmes operated by Revenue in 2005 and 2006.
I am further advised that in 2005 the Revenue Large Cases Division conducted audits on the income tax returns of 9 individual taxpayers who claimed to be non-resident.
The audits were undertaken to ascertain if the absences claimed by these individuals were compatible with the rules relating to non-residence and consistent with other data and intelligence available to Revenue. The audits established that there was no reason to conclude that the individuals concerned failed to comply with the statutory rules governing non-resident status.
The Chairman of the Revenue Commissioners has informed me that further audits will be conducted in 2006 on a selection of tax returns from individuals claiming non-resident status.
61 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance his plans to introduce legislation allowing the National Pensions Reserve Fund to avoid investing in unethical industries, such as the arms and tobacco industries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24814/06]
The goal set for the National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF) under its establishing legislation, the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000, is to secure the optimal return over the long term, having regard to (a) the purpose of the Fund as set out in section 18(1) of the Act, and (b) the payment requirements of the Fund as provided for under section 20 of the Act, provided the level of risk to the moneys held or invested is acceptable to the NPRF Commission.
The National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission, which under the Act is independent of Government, controls and manages the Fund with discretionary authority to determine and implement its investment strategy.
The NPRF Commission announced in April this year that they had signed up to the United Nations' new "Principles for Responsible Investment". The Principles, which are voluntary and aspirational, are intended to encourage institutional investors to take account of environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues.
I understand that the Principles would not, for example, require disinvestment from certain sectors or companies. Instead, the Principles encourage institutional investors to engage on ESG issues with the companies in which they invest and generally to raise the profile of such issues by making it clear that they are a matter of concern.
I have no plans to amend the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act.
62 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance the terms on which funds in the National Pension Reserve Fund have been made available for public sector projects; the reason they have not been taken up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24925/06]
The National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission is independent of Government in the exercise of its functions. It controls and manages the Fund with discretionary authority to determine and implement the Fund's investment strategy in accordance with the Fund investment policy set out in the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000. This investment policy is effectively a commercial investment mandate with the objective of securing the optimal return over the long term subject to prudent risk management.
The independence of the Commission is a cornerstone of the legislation which ensures that the Commission will invest in a manner that maximises returns. Essentially, it is similar to the trustee arrangements that apply to private pension funds and places an obligation on the Commission to act commercially and in the best interests of the Fund.
With regard to commercial investment in public sector projects in this country, the Annual Report of the National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission for 2004 states that the Commission has made an initial allocation of €200 million for investment in public-private partnerships in Ireland and will increase this allocation should suitable opportunities arise. The Report also states that the Commission will make equity and/or debt finance available to the winning bidder in the tender process for public-private-partnership projects, provided it is satisfied with the prospective rate of return. I understand that, to date, no moneys have been invested by the Commission in any such projects.
The Commission was a member of a consortium — the Celtic Roads Group — which was a bidder in a competition for the contract to upgrade the M50 which was conducted by the National Roads Authority. The NRA abandoned the original competition some time ago and launched a new competition on different terms. The Celtic Roads Group consortium decided not to enter the new bidding competition and the Commission's involvement in that project as a member of a bidding consortium is accordingly now at an end.
63 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance when he expects to meet targets set in the Programme for Government and Sustaining Progress that 80 percent of all taxpayers would pay at the standard rate of tax; the percentage of taxpayers currently paying only at the standard rate of tax; the percentage of taxpayers currently paying at the higher rate of tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24963/06]
The 80% target in An Agreed Programme for Government, which refers to "earners" rather than to "taxpayers", is given in the context of a broader economic and budgetary strategy which provides, among other things, that the public finances will be kept in a healthy condition and that personal and business taxes will be kept down in order to strengthen and maintain the competitive position of the Irish economy.
After Budget 2006 it is estimated that, in the current tax year, 35.9% of all income earners will be exempt from income tax and a further 32.2% of income earners will pay tax at no more than the standard rate. It is estimated 31.9% of income earners will pay tax at the higher rate of tax.
Further progress in this area will be a matter for consideration in the context of the Budget consistent with the Government's overall economic and budgetary strategy.
However, I would point out to the Deputy that the Government's tax policies have ensured that, since 1997, average tax rates have fallen for all categories of taxpayer and, for 2006, an unprecedented number of low paid income earners are projected to be outside the tax net altogether as is clear from the information provided in this answer. Also, after tax income, adjusted for CPI inflation, for a person on the average industrial wage, is now 44% higher than it was in 1997. About half of this increase is due to lower taxes.
Furthermore, the latest OECD data relating to the year 2005 indicate that for the single worker on average earnings, Ireland has the lowest tax wedge in the EU and one of the lowest in the OECD. For a married one earner couple with two children on average earnings, Ireland has the lowest tax wedge in the entire OECD.
One reason why many income earners pay at the higher rate is because incomes have increased significantly. As I have indicated to the House previously, this is an indication, not of a problem, but of a major economic success.
64 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if he expects public spending to remain on target for the remainder of 2006 and 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24859/06]
155 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which he expects Government expenditure to increase throughout the various Government Departments in the next two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25307/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 64 and 155 together.
On the basis of the end May figures (end June are being prepared and will be published on the 4th of July) the outturn for Voted expenditure in 2006 is expected to be broadly in line with the allocations set out in the Revised Estimates for Public Services published on the 23rd of February 2006, except for the reimbursement of long-stay charges in former Health Board funded institutions. Following the recent enactment of the Health (Repayment Scheme) Act, these are now expected to amount to €340 million for 2006 rather than the €400 million provisionally provided for in the Revised Estimates with the balance of €660 million likely to be required in 2007 and 2008.
The projections for 2007 and 2008 published as part of my 2006 Budget provide for total gross voted current expenditure of €46.7 billion in 2007 and €49 billion in 2008, inclusive of €1.5 billion and €2.8 billion in unallocated amounts respectively. These projections would represent year-on-year increases of 6.3% and 5% respectively.
A capital envelope covering the period 2006-2010 was also published on Budget Day and provides for total capital investment (Exchequer and PPP) within the envelope of €7.8 billion for 2007 and €8.4 billion for 2008 — year-on-year increases of 12.3% and 7.5% respectively.
These projections will be updated when revised Stability Programme economic projections are published in the autumn and in the context of the 2007 Estimates and Budget.
65 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance the value of stamp duty receipts received by the Exchequer for each year from 2000 to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24971/06]
The following table details the Exchequer stamp duty yield in each of the years 2000 to 2005 and in the first five months of 2006 also.
|
Year |
Stamp Duty |
|
€m |
|
|
2000 |
1,107 |
|
2001 |
1,227 |
|
2002 |
1,167 |
|
2003 |
1,688 |
|
2004 |
2,088 |
|
2005 |
2,725 |
|
2006 (to end-May) |
1,293 |
The large increases in stamp duty receipts over the last number of years are due primarily to the continued buoyancy of the property market.
66 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the provision of a new Garda station at Castleisland, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24815/06]
A brief of requirements for the new Garda Station at Castleisland, Co. Kerry has been received from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Arrangements are in hand for the appointment of a design team which requires advertisement in the EU Journal. This procedure will take about 3 months to complete.
A Sketch for the new Station will be ready shortly thereafter for the approval of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda Authorities.
67 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Finance his views on the addition of 40,000 employees to the public sector in the last Quarterly National Household Survey; and the details, including costing, of the new positions. [24134/06]
The CSO Quarterly National Household Survey does not purport to be an indicator of public service employment. The CSO classification of "Public Services" includes sizable private sector elements in the Health and Education sectors including work without a public sector parallel. For example the health sector figure includes private sector health practitioners and providers and also private crèche workers. The education sector figure includes private schools, colleges, and training providers.
As regards public sector employment, a more relevant CSO series is that on Public Sector Employment and Earnings, although it should be noted that this survey includes the commercial State companies, which are not covered by the Government's staff numbers policy. The most recent figures available under this series are in respect of December 2005, published on the 4th of May. This shows an increase of 2,500, from 246,600 to 249,100, between December 2004 and December 2005.
It is also worth noting that the CSO figures under both headings discussed above include all employees whether full-time or part -time. The surveys cover those who worked at least 1 hour in the reference week for most sectors. The most appropriate measure for the purposes of monitoring the effect of the Government's policy on public service numbers is whole time equivalents. On this basis my Department's figures show an increase in total public service employment of 7,070 from 281,581 at 31 December 2004 to 288,651 at the end of 2005.
The policy on numbers employed in the public service has succeeded in cutting back on the rapid rise in public service employment in the period 1997 to 2002. From 1997 to 2001 there had been an increase of almost 43,000, or 19%, in the number of public service employees. From the introduction of the policy in December 2002 to the end of 2005, the increase has been of the order of 7,600 or 2.5%. This took place at a time of significant increases both in employment in the economy generally and in the population with the corresponding increased demand for public services.
The Government has been prepared to increase numbers to meet priority needs in frontline and essential services, for example, new health units and the disability area in the Health sector, Special Needs Teachers in the education system and to increase the number of Gardaí; this is in line with the approach stated when the policy was launched.
It is important that an appropriate balance is struck between the need, on the one hand, to provide resources to improve front-line services and the need, on the other to control and regulate overall numbers in the context of providing value for money for the public expenditure involved.
68 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Finance his views on the report by the OECD, and echoed by the European Central Bank, that another interest rate increase will place Ireland in the high risk category of experiencing a sharp house price reversal; if his Department has conducted an assessment of the implications of a house price reversal for the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24937/06]
Interest rates in Ireland remain low in both historic and real terms. House prices are underpinned by fundamentals and modest interest rate changes are generally considered by commentators as unlikely to result in a sharp price reversal.
My Department continually monitors developments in the housing market from the point of view of analysing economic and fiscal developments.
69 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the median income of those who availed of tax breaks in respect of private pension contributions in each of the past five years. [24834/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the most recent relevant information available is in respect of income tax relief allowed for contributions to "retirement annuity contracts" for the five income tax years 1998-99 to 2002, the latest year for which it is available, which are available to the self-employed and to employees not in occupational pension schemes.
The figures of median incomes for each year are set out as follows. The corresponding average incomes are also shown for comparison. Median and average incomes of contributors to retirement annuity contracts.
|
Income tax Year |
Median income |
Average income |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
1998-99 |
32,682 |
49,553 |
|
1999-2000 |
34,884 |
52,590 |
|
2000-01 |
38,317 |
58,309 |
|
2001 |
31,620 |
48,188 |
|
2002 |
44,809 |
67,119 |
"Median income" is the exact middle income in a numerically ordered range of the individual gross incomes of contributors to "retirement annuity contracts".
It is not possible to provide corresponding figures in regard to the take-up of the tax relief for pension contributions by employers and employees as the relevant data are not captured in such a way as to make this possible.
The information on incomes is based on income returns on Revenue records at the time the data were compiled for analytical purposes, representing about 95% of all returns expected.
A married couple who have elected or have been deemed to have elected for joint assessment are counted as one tax unit.
It should be noted that as PAYE taxpayers were charged to tax on their earnings in the period from 6 April to 31 December 2001 and self-employed taxpayers were assessed to tax for that short "year" on 74% of the profits earned in a 12 month accounting period, the cost figures will not be directly comparable with those of earlier or later years.
70 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance if he has examined the possibility of extending the guidelines for regulatory impact analysis of new regulations to the Financial Regulator as it has delegated responsibility for regulating businesses and has had to develop its own methodology of RIA which in turn may not have led to maximum objectivity in regard to the introduction of its regulations. [24806/06]
Following a Government Decision on 21 June last year, Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) is now to be applied to all new proposals for primary legislation and significant Statutory Instruments that involve changes to Ireland's regulatory framework, and proposals for EU Directives and significant EU Regulations when they are published by the European Commission.
While the Government Decision did not extend to regulations made or codes issued by the Financial Regulator, the Financial Regulator has committed itself to carrying out RIAs in relation to all major proposals. The manner in which the Financial Regulator proposes to undertake RIAs, which was set out by its Chief Executive Officer at the Finance Dublin Conference last March, is fully consistent both with best practice standards and the principles of the Better Regulation initiative. Indeed the Deputy may wish to note that the Financial Regulator participates on the Department of the Taoiseach's Better Regulation Group where it has assisted with the development of policies in relation to RIA and public consultation.
71 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on the work of the high-wealth unit of the Revenue Commissioners; the number of audits conducted each year from 2000 to date in 2006; the amount of money collected from audits in each year from 2000 to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24943/06]
The Revenue Commissioners report regularly on the work of their various Divisions and Units. I am advised by them that the High Wealth Individuals Unit of Revenues Large Cases Division was established in late 2003.
I am further advised that the work of the unit involves the monitoring of the tax compliance of approx. 300 individuals who are considered to be Ireland's wealthiest individuals, each having, in general, a net worth in excess of about €50m. The number of taxpayers is not static and, on the basis of screening, taxpayers may be added to or subtracted from the caseload of the Unit. This unit also monitors the related trusts and private investment vehicles of these individuals. The monitoring involves building profiles of these individuals, researching tax risks associated with the approach of these individuals to the range of taxes for which they are accountable and carrying out a range of compliance interventions, including audits. The unit also provides the usual Revenue customer services to these taxpayers.
During 2004 the unit was primarily involved in identifying its caseload, carrying out research, building profiles and designing compliance programmes. In 2005, the first full year of operation, 21 compliance interventions (including audits) yielded c.€9.5m. To-date this year 19 interventions have yielded c.€13.6m.
72 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Finance his views on the speech of the Information Commissioner Ms Emily O’Reilly to the Institute of Public Administration on 20 June 2006 in particular on her statement that public bodies are avoiding contact with the public rather than making customer services more transparent and that the growing number of agencies, advisory bodies and taskforces outside the remit of the Office of the Information Commissioner are threatening the transparency of the decision making process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24956/06]
In the speech referred to by the Deputy, I understand the Ombudsman and Information Commissioner, Ms Emily O'Reilly, encouraged public bodies, when devising and implementing customer service initiatives, not to be too much in thrall to technology and to endeavour to ensure that, where necessary, members of the public can continue to make direct contact with members of staff.
I have no particular difficulty with this view. The modernisation programme over the past decade and more has had quality customer service as a core objective. A range of customer service initiatives have been introduced by public bodies in recent years which have helped to transform the way in which their services are delivered. Many of these initiatives have been assisted by improvements in Information and Communications Technologies. When devising and implementing such initiatives, I would recognise the need for public bodies to bear in mind the requirements of all clients, including those who may not have a high level of computer literacy. In fairness to public bodies, I think this requirement is recognised though I would accept that there may be instances, particularly at busy periods, where some people may have felt frustrated when trying to speak directly to a member of staff.
I would not accept that there are a growing number of bodies outside the remit of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act. FOI has been extended gradually since its introduction over eight years ago. I made regulations recently that extended the Act to more than 100 bodies. This brings to over 500 the number of bodies covered by FOI, compared to 67 when the Act was introduced in April 1998. In February this year, I announced the introduction of a Code of Practice on Freedom of Information for the six North/South Implementation Bodies and Tourism Ireland Limited. These initiatives demonstrate the Government's commitment to deepening and widening the application of freedom of information in the public sector.
73 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Finance the number of programme reviews completed under the Expenditure Review Initiative in 2005; the value of the programmes reviewed; and if there is a procedure in place for implementing the recommendations. [24893/06]
Some 14 reviews, with an indicative estimated coverage of €2,156 million, were completed under the Expenditure Review initiative (ERI) in 2005.
Responsibility for the conduct of the reviews and for addressing their recommendations rests with individual Departments and Offices. Any questions regarding individual expenditure reviews should therefore be directed to the relevant Departments or Offices.
Under the arrangements in operation for ERI, Departments/Offices were required to: Publish all ERI reviews on their website and submit them to the appropriate Oireachtas Committees; Put systems into place to ensure that the responses to ERI recommendations are tracked and reported regularly to their MAC; Use their Annual Reports to detail progress on ERI reviews including implementing recommendations and the impacts achieved as a result.
In June 2006, the Government decided to recast ERI as a Value for Money and Policy Review process with a broader VFM focus, to include other policy reviews that impact on VFM. The VFM Reviews will focus on significant areas of expenditure and major policy issues and will, as a general rule, have a minimum coverage in the 2006-2008 period of 10-15% of each Department's and Office's Budget.
Some ninety VFM Reviews will be carried out for the period 2006-2008. Details of these reviews have been placed in the Library of the House. These reviews when completed will be published and submitted to the relevant Oireachtas Committee. Other policy reviews which impact on VFM may also, at the discretion of individual Ministers, be published and submitted to the relevant Committee. A list of all reviews, whether published or not, will be published in the Annual Report of each Department on its Statement of Strategy.
74 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance his expectations for the capacity of the economy to sustain increases in public spending over the coming three years; and the way in which same should relate to the growth of income and the growth of tax revenue in those years. [24929/06]
The Government's budgetary strategy is based on the objective of continued budgetary sustainability both in the medium-term and the long-run, in line with the requirements of the Stability and Growth Pact.
This Government considers that prudent fiscal policies underpin competitiveness, support growth and create flexibility to respond effectively to economic shocks. Of particular importance is the need to ensure that public expenditure growth is sustainable and broadly in line with available resources and, within this, to increase the level of investment needed to tackle the economy's infrastructure deficit.
Consistent with this, we will continue to maintain the firm and disciplined approach to national budgetary policy that has been a keystone in our recent economic prosperity to date.
75 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Finance his views on changes in public policy in the context of rising interest rates and the pressures that this will cause a household’s finances. [24919/06]
95 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Finance his plans to address the issue of private sector debt following the report from the Central Bank on the 31 May 2006 that private sector borrowing grew in April 2006 to 29.6 per cent, its fastest rate in more than six years; if his Department has carried out an assessment of the likely implications for the economy of the increased rate of private sector borrowing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24954/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 75 and 95 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, within the implementation of the overall legislative framework, private sector credit growth and debt levels are, in the first instance, a matter for the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland. This follows from its role as part of the European System of Central Banks and its functions, as the Financial Regulator, in relation to the prudential supervision of financial institutions and the protection of the consumers of those firms.
As far as looking after the interests of the individual borrower and the individual investor is concerned, the function of Government is to provide an appropriate legislative framework for regulation of the financial services sector — one that is both comprehensive and robust. I am satisfied that, on foot of the progress made over recent years, especially in establishing the Financial Regulator with a particular focus on the interests of the consumer, we have such a framework in place.
The Financial Regulator has developed a number of specific initiatives to help consumers make informed choices in terms of their financial products. These initiatives have been developed through the framework of the Financial Regulator's "It's Your Money" campaign and have involved publishing consumer guides on credit products, fact sheets, cost surveys on personal loans, all of which are intended to assist borrowers in making the most appropriate credit decisions given their circumstances. The Financial Regulator's guide called "Mortgages made Easy" is available on its website or from its Consumer Information Office. Mortgage lending practices are closely supervised by the Financial Regulator and the Central Bank with appropriate stress testing of borrowers' ability to meet their obligations, not just in the current economically favourable circumstances, but also in more challenging times. The information being made available by the Financial Regulator, together with the statutory information and warnings in the case of mortgages, serve as an adequate basis for consumers to make a decision about the type of mortgage which best suits them.
The Financial Regulator recently introduced a technical prudential measure requiring financial institutions to put more capital aside for higher LTV (Loan to Value) loans. This reinforces the message consistently conveyed to lending institutions by the Regulator that mortgage lending policies and practices should be prudent and responsible.
A high proportion of private sector indebtedness in Ireland relates to borrowing for house-purchase which, in turn, involves the acquisition of an asset for the households. In the same way, borrowing by the business sector generally underpins investment, and the creation of business assets yielding future income. It therefore reflects the strong performance of the economy and confidence in Ireland's economic prospects. My Department continually monitors economic and financial developments, including private sector credit growth, with a view to analysing current developments and future economic prospects.
Whilst the pattern of mortgage growth and associated debt levels in the economy are supported by a range of fundamental factors such as growing employment, rising real incomes, favourable demographics and low inflation and interest rates, the Central Bank have highlighted the need for borrowers and lenders to factor into their financial decision-making the prospective impact of potential changes in the future economic and financial environment, including the impact of higher interest rates. I fully support the vigilance of the Central Bank and the Financial Regulator on the issue of personal credit and mortgage debt and in reminding both borrowers and lenders of the need for responsible behaviour.
76 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the recent study by the Trinity College Dublin School of Business Studies which showed that voluntary organisations here get only 1.4 percent of their funding in donations from the business community; if the social finance fund announced in Budget 2006 will include measures to encourage the wider involvement of the business community in community organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24952/06]
85 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance further to the Government’s Social Finance Fund, the way in which applicants will be assessed when applying for a loan from the fund; if community projects with limited or no direct income from clients will be eligible for loans from this fund; if there will be a mentoring or skill transfer programme provided by the banks to reduce the numbers of community projects that failing to meet repayments; if the banks have agreed on an acceptable level of non-repayment to reflect the higher risk category of the community projects, in view of the fact that they are unable to access loans in the normal way; if there will be more flexible repayment structures than would usually be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24953/06]
96 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Finance the banks which have agreed to provide €25 million seed capital for the social finance fund; and the security expected to be required by community and voluntary groups wishing to avail of this financial assistance. [24804/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 76, 85 and 96 together.
A delivery model for the social finance initiative is currently being developed. This will involve the creation of a social investment vehicle that will essentially perform the role of a wholesale supplier of social finance funding. As far as the on-lending of the funds for individual projects is concerned, the idea is, as far as possible, to use existing agencies and established networks of social finance providers. The banks have indicated a willingness to contribute both seed funding of €25 million and their expertise to support the practical delivery of this initiative. My Department is conducting its discussions with the banks through their representative body, the Irish Bankers Federation, who are coordinating arrangements for participation by the banks.
Relative to the current scale of social finance provision nationwide, €25m represents a very significant volume of resources. This level of funding is aligned to what is expected to be appropriate to the next phase of the evolution of social finance provision. My priority is to ensure that the available resources are applied carefully in a focused way with clear objectives, avoiding bureaucracy, and with a view to market testing options for the further development of social finance. In my Budget speech, I indicated that I was keeping the door open to other contributors.
I am aware of the recent study referred to by Deputy Costello. The Deputy may wish to note that under the new social partnership agreement "Towards 2016", the Government will examine ways to progress the investment of capital in social finance providers by charities, private individuals and businesses, as well as explore ways to facilitate philanthropic work, strengthen and deepen a culture of philanthropy in Ireland, and maximise the contribution of philanthropy to the common good. This will complement existing initiatives such as pilot funding for Philanthropy Ireland and funding support for Chambers Ireland's 2006 Corporate Social Responsibility Programme which is focused on promoting CSR in SMEs.
My Department is continuing to consult with the Office of the Attorney General in relation to a number of legal issues relating to the pilot implementation of the Social Finance initiative. With a view to developing an effective model my Department has, to date, also consulted with a number of public, private and voluntary bodies currently involved or with interests in this area, in addition to its discussions with the banking community. These consultations will inform the policies and procedures governing the implementation of the initiative.
77 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Finance the anticipated costs, in terms of acquiring, and equipping premises and other related costs at the latest date for which figures are available of the original decentralisation programme announced in Budget 2004 and the slimmed down version announced in December 2004. [24951/06]
The Government is committed to the full implementation of the Decentralisation Programme announced in Budget 2004, involving some 10,300 civil and public service jobs in more than 56 locations across some 60 Government Departments/Offices and Agencies.
My Office is in the process of procuring appropriate properties in the designated locations for the departments and agencies involved, with much progress having been made to date. Property acquisition negotiations are completed or are significantly advanced at 30 locations.
The prevailing property market conditions in each geographical area have a significant bearing on the cost of acquiring sites. As the acquisition process is still in progress, it is not possible at this stage to provide a precise estimate of the cost of the site acquisition programme. However, and for working purposes only, an indicative figure of €75 to €100 million (excluding VAT) is being used by the OPW.
Although property solutions will include leasing and fitting-out of existing buildings, it is anticipated that, in the majority of cases, the accommodation facilities will be provided by the construction of new office buildings and cost estimation can be approached on that basis. However, in advance of actual market testing of any procurement methodology, it is possible, at this time, only to assign the most general measurements of cost to such a large-scale, diverse and complex programme.
It is estimated that approximately 210,000 sq. m of office space will be required to accommodate the total numbers included in the programme. OPW cost norms (April 2005) in respect of offices would indicate an average build-cost to fit-out standard, in the range of €1,800 to €2,200 per square metre for suburban/rural locations and €2,500 to €3,000 per square metre in city/town centre locations. Such figures exclude VAT, professional fees and inflation.
In addition the cost of equipping the accommodation to standard office equipment levels could be estimated at c.€4,000 per person. This would exclude the cost of Information and Communication Technology and specialised equipment requirements.
Such general measurements of cost do not include specialised facility and equipment requirements and other variables which would arise from the spread of possible procurement methodologies. In addition general cost indicators of this type show a snapshot in time.
It is self-evident that a firmer scale of costs for the decentralisation programme will only emerge on foot of actual cost proposals being received from the market. It will be some months yet before sufficient data can be extracted from a suitable range of tender competitions to provide a basis on which more robust estimates of the overall cost of the programme can be made. However on the basis of experience to date, there is no reason to adjust the original estimates for the overall programme.
78 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on progress in implementing the Government’s decentralisation policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24812/06]
The implementation of the Decentralisation Programme is proceeding steadily. Over ten and a half thousand civil and public servants have applied to relocate under the Programme. The Central Applications Facility remains open and continues to receive applications. It is anticipated that interest will increase further as building and movement timetables firm up.
Discussions have concluded on a number of human resource and industrial relations matters and are being progressed on other issues. Actual movement of staff within and between Departments and Offices is now well underway with over 1,700 staff already assigned to civil service posts which will decentralise.
A facility is being operated through the Public Appointments Service to allow staff remaining in Dublin to express preferences in relation to the organisations to which they would like to transfer. This will be an ongoing process throughout the transition phase of the Programme and progress in this priority area will be monitored continually over the coming months.
Overall, the programme of site identification and acquisition is progressing satisfactorily. To date, property acquisition negotiations have been completed or significantly advanced in 30 locations.
The OPW are currently reviewing their indicative dates for completion of buildings in light of their experience to date.
A number of organisations have sought advance or temporary accommodation to facilitate early moves. These developments will greatly assist the decentralising Departments in taking in many of the civil servants who are currently based in provincial locations, thus giving the organisation a foothold in the new location.
Advance moves have already taken place to Sligo, Portlaoise, Thurles, Tipperary Town, Clifden and Na Forbacha in Galway. Over 200 officers have already relocated to new provincial locations under the Programme.
All Departments and Offices have produced implementation plans setting out the detailed arrangements they are putting in place to plan for relocation while also ensuring business continuity and effective delivery of services to customers. The plans are comprehensive and their preparation involved detailed reviews of business processes as well as the logistics of the move. Departments and Offices are taking a prudent approach in relation to assessing the risks involved and the adoption of appropriate measures to manage business risk.
Having already met with a number of Secretaries General, the Decentralisation Implementation Group is currently meeting with some of the Chief Executives of State Agencies to discuss their Implementation Plans, the planning framework in place, to assess progress to date and to hear about the challenges arising and steps proposed by the agencies to address them.
I am satisfied that good progress continues to be made on this ambitious programme.
79 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance the discussions he has had with other Government Departments or State agencies who are concerned at the reported potential loss of up to 20 per cent of the 1,700 specialists whose positions have been earmarked for decentralisation as a result of the Government’s decentralisation programme; the steps being taken to address these concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24950/06]
When the Decentralisation Programme was announced in December 2003, a Decentralisation Implementation Group was appointed to drive the process forward. The Group's terms of reference include the examination of how decentralisation might enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the public service.
The Implementation Group asked that all organisations participating in the programme should prepare detailed implementation plans, including risk mitigation plans. These plans were prepared and submitted to the Group. Each of the Departments and organisations scheduled as "early movers" has prepared a revised implementation plan detailing the steps that need to be taken in order to complete the moves to the new locations successfully.
There are of course particular challenges for the State Agencies in managing the degree of change involved. While the Civil Service has previous experience of significant decentralisation, this expertise is only now being developed in the wider state sector. The Decentralisation Implementation Group, in its June 2005 report, emphasised the responsibility of management within the various state agencies to progress the implementation of Government policy in this regard. It went on to state that progress should be monitored by the responsible department and requested that the next and deeper iteration of each agency's implementation plan should be prepared. I understand that agencies are preparing these plans at present.
I also understand that the Decentralisation Implementation Group has met with a number of Secretaries General and are satisfied with the level of planning in each of the Departments. The Group is currently meeting with the Chief Executives of a number of State Agencies to discuss the planning framework in place, to assess progress to date and to hear about the challenges arising and steps proposed to address them.
In the meantime, discussions are ongoing between my Department and the unions representing professional & technical staff on all aspects relating to implementation of the programme. I understand that my Department has put a range of proposals to IMPACT on options for placing staff in Dublin which will require further negotiations with a range of unions involved in the process. There are no quick solutions to this issue but I am confident that we can make progress towards addressing the needs of all staff. The experience in the Civil Service suggests that the needs of the programme can be effectively balanced against the needs of staff when all sides are willing to engage in constructive dialogue.
On a more general note, the Committee for Public Management Research (CPMR) has recently conducted a Review of Knowledge Management in the Irish Civil Service. The purpose of the review was to raise awareness of knowledge management and its potential to support organisations in achieving their business objectives. It recognised that knowledge management had been given greater priority in response to ever-increasing pressure to improve efficiency, together with a growing awareness of the importance of sharing knowledge across Government organisations to maintain a whole-Government perspective on policy making and service delivery. It also recognised that the need for this has been given greater impetus by the Decentralisation Programme and the likelihood of significant changes in personnel in many Departments. The review identifies concrete steps and cultural change required of Government Departments in order to use and share knowledge more effectively.
80 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on the latest negotiation with the European Commission on the issue of the stallion tax exemption scheme; if he has received a final position from the Commission on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24970/06]
In line with my Budget 2006 announcement, the 2006 Finance Act provides for the termination of the tax exemption for stallion stud fees with effect from 31 July 2008. My Department has notified the European Commission of this provision.
As I announced in the Budget, it is intended to hold discussions with the Commission later this year on a new tax regime appropriate to the industry.
81 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm reports that 15 other major developers are being examined by the Revenue Commissioners following from the settlement between a company (details supplied) and the Revenue Commissioners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24939/06]
As the Deputy is aware I cannot, for reasons of taxpayer confidentiality, comment on the tax affairs of individual cases. However, I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that examinations of the tax affairs of property developers are a feature of the risk- based programmes operated by Revenue.
As the Deputy may be aware, Revenue has committed to applying 25% of its audit and compliance resource to the construction sector in 2006 and this project is underway. This project, which is progressing satisfactorily, will obviously include property developers in its scope.
As at 31 May 2006 the key results from the project are: 1,362 audits had been completed with a yield of almost €48m including interest and penalties; The audit figure includes 46 audits on large property developers and major infrastructural projects (value > €10m); A further €4m was collected from 12,424 assurance checks; 361 site visits have been carried out, covering contracts whose total value of exceeds €1,000,000,000; The Commissioners have further informed me that the High Wealth Individuals Unit in Revenue's Large Cases Division has included the audit of 15-20 property developers in its audit plan for 2006.
82 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Finance if he has sought a review of the evaluation of tax relief for private hospital investment in view of the decision to permit these hospitals to use public lands adjoining public hospitals; and the way in which this alters the benefit to cost ratios of such projects. [24907/06]
The plan for private hospitals in the grounds of public hospitals is designed to be a cost effective way of expanding the supply of beds for public patients. However, there have been no decisions yet in regard to approving any particular proposal. It will be a matter for the HSE to assess any proposals.
The scheme of capital allowances for the construction of private hospitals was reviewed by Indecon Economic Consultants as part of the overall review of property tax incentives in 2005. Indecon consulted widely in the course of their review, including consultations with the Department of Health and Children and the Health Service Executive. Their report was published on 6 February 2006 and is available on the Department of Finance's website. The review recommended that this scheme should continue as there was a need for on-going investment in private hospitals. The consultants observed that the construction of private hospitals could free beds in public hospitals used by private patients. It should also be noted that the consultants observed that the Government's plan for private hospitals in the grounds of public hospitals is designed to be a cost effective way of expanding supply and if properly managed will increase supply and competition.
The summary of the main findings from Indecon's analysis is as follows:
•‘There has been an overall increase in planning applications and approvals for private hospitals since 2000 but most have not proceeded to date.
•Most of the extra investment in the sector would either not have been undertaken, or would have taken longer to come on-line in the absence of the tax incentive scheme.
•While it is too early to provide detailed estimates of the impact of the scheme on the supply and on the costs of hospital beds, Indecon believes the scheme has the potential to address supply shortages in the sector and to reduce costs.'
Private health care is a long established feature of the system of health care provision in Ireland and acts as a strong complement to the publicly funded system. Private health care provision spans from general practitioner services through private beds in public hospitals and private hospitals to private nursing homes. 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. A number of Government policies-initiatives support the co-existence of public and private health care such as: the designation of private and semi-private beds in public hospitals; income tax relief on private health insurance premiums; income tax relief on medical-dental expenses; the National Treatment Purchase Fund sources capacity in private hospitals for public patients; and the Tánaiste's policy direction to the Health Service Executive to build private hospitals on public sites thereby freeing up beds for public patients.
84 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the high proportion of Government revenue which is raised through VAT, places an unfair burden on low income families; and if he will carry out a review of the impact of VAT on low income families. [24832/06]
I reject the Deputy's suggestion that VAT places an unfair burden on low income families. A simple look at the facts will show that as far as EU law will permit, every effort is made to reduce the incidence of VAT and Excise on low incomes.
Firstly, there is no VAT on the main low income items such as food, oral medicines, childrens' shoes and clothing. Secondly, there are special reliefs in the VAT system for medical and other equipment for the disabled. There is no VAT on public transport and diesel used in buses and trains is subject to reduced rates of excise. Most public services are not liable to VAT.
Furthermore, we are not relying more on indirect taxation now than in the past, as the following table will show.
|
1964/5 |
1975 |
1985 |
1995 |
2005 |
|
|
% |
% |
% |
% |
% |
|
|
VAT1 |
7 |
19 |
25 |
26 |
31 |
|
Customs & Excise |
53 |
36 |
25 |
21 |
14 |
|
Income Tax |
26 |
36 |
38 |
36 |
29 |
|
Corporation Tax |
5 |
3 |
4 |
10 |
14 |
|
Capital Taxes |
4 |
3 |
3 |
4 |
13 |
|
Other2 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
4 |
— |
1. Turnover Tax in 1965
2. Includes Road tax (from 1964/5), Agricultural levies (from 1975), Income/Youth employment levy (1985), Employment and Training Levy (1995)
As the Deputy can see, we are, in fact relying far less on indirect taxation, including VAT and Excise, than before, with the gap being made up by greater revenue yield from company tax and taxes on capital and property.
Indeed, as stated above, every effort is made, as far as EU law will permit, to reduce the incidence of VAT and Excise on low incomes, but, by their nature, such taxes are not direct taxes on income (this is why they are called indirect taxes) and cannot be easily related to one's ability to pay, however good one's intent.
86 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether the heavy reliance on revenue from VAT leaves the State unduly vulnerable to a sharp contraction in Government revenue in the event of a downturn in the property market or in the case of a sharp growth in interest rates and a consequent reduction in consumer spending. [24837/06]
Exchequer receipts from VAT have varied between 30 and 31 per cent of total tax revenues over the past 4 years notwithstanding the growth in the property market and in the economy generally over this period. While the proportions of total tax revenue accounted for by particular tax heads can vary over time, the Exchequer is not significantly more reliant on revenues from VAT now than in previous years.
Tax revenues from whatever source are ultimately dependent on the level and composition of economic activity. A negative shock to the economy would be likely to have an adverse impact on tax revenues. The extent of any fall in tax revenues resulting from a downturn in the property market or from a slowdown in consumer spending would depend on the extent and nature of the downturn.
87 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Finance his views on a new product to encourage people to continue saving after the special savings incentive accounts begin to mature in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23102/06]
The SSIA scheme opened on 1 May 2001 and entry to it closed on 30 April 2002. The accounts mature between May 2006 and April 2007. A total of 1.17 million accounts were opened during the period outlined.
The specific goal of the SSIA scheme was to encourage people to save over a period of at least five years. Its effect has been to stimulate such savings over varying income ranges which is evident in the extensive take-up by many low-income earners. The scheme has been a success in those terms. The scheme has a specific duration. The findings of various surveys undertaken domestically would tend to suggest that, upon maturity, a large portion of the existing SSIA funds will continue to be saved. Therefore, there is much less need or justification to introduce a new tax-based savings scheme.
However, the Government have decided to use the success of the SSIA scheme to encourage a greater level of pension investment. A new pension incentive was introduced in this year's Finance Act to encourage modest-income SSIA holders to transfer part or all of their SSIA savings into an approved pension. The incentive has two features. Firstly, for every €3 of SSIA proceeds reinvested by an eligible SSIA holder in a pension product, the Exchequer will contribute €1 by way of a tax credit. This tax credit cannot exceed €2,500. Secondly, the Exchequer will contribute an additional tax credit to the pension product in proportion to the amount of SSIA transferred into the pension.
88 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance his views on the findings of the ten year review of the housing market based on data from ESRI and Permanent TSB house price index which highlights the Government’s decision to abolish higher stamp duty rates for investors and to restore interest relief on rental properties as associated factors for the significant increase of, on average, 15 per cent per annum. [24807/06]
I have noted the recent analysis of the housing market over the last ten years conducted using data from the ESRI/Permanent TSB house price index. While house prices have risen significantly over this period, the rates of increase must be seen in the proper context. In particular, there has been a large increase in household incomes due to higher employment, increases in earnings per capita and lower rates of income tax. In addition, demographic factors have been important; these include inward migration in recent years as well as the growth in the population in the household formation age cohort. Finally, interest rates have fallen significantly due to our participation in EMU.
While the appreciation in the housing market over the past decade therefore reflects a wide variety of economic factors, experience over the years has demonstrated that caution must be exercised in having recourse to taxation measures designed to influence the market. For example, in the light of recommendations of the first Bacon Report on House Price Developments, mortgage interest relief for investors was abolished for new loans in 1998. Likewise, a more onerous stamp duty regime for property investors was introduced in 2000, with more favourable rates for first-time buyers, in a move away from the traditional tiered set of stamp duty rates that applied uniformly in respect of all second-hand properties. However, after the introduction of these measures, the house-building industry began to experience a downturn and concerns arose as to the negative effect on investment in the private rental sector and on overall housing supply. In this context, it is noteworthy that the commission on the Private Rented Residential Sector which reported in July 2000 on all aspects of the sector made a general recommendation that mortgage interest relief for investors should be restored in the context of promoting a more professional management approach to the business of renting residential accommodation. Consequently, changes were introduced in Budget 2002 to reintroduce mortgage interest relief for investors in residential property, and to bring the stamp duty rates for investors in line with the rates applying for owner-occupiers of second-hand houses generally. These changes were successful in maintaining and increasing housing supply, while safeguarding employment in the construction sector.
89 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on the outcome of the recent partnership negotiations. [24962/06]
Since 1987 Social Partnership has helped to maintain a strategic focus on key national priorities, and has helped to create and sustain the conditions for remarkable employment growth, fiscal stability, and a dramatic improvement in living standards which has benefited the people of this country. The challenges facing us now are no less complex or less important than they were back in 1987.
I believe Towards 2016 develops a new strategic framework to address key social challenges and focus on the needs of all in our society. This approach will take time to deliver and the Agreement sets out how we propose to measure and review progress over a ten-year framework period.
The Agreement sets out the terms of the pay increases for the private sector and the public service for a twenty-seven month period. While the total increase is significant, I am confident that it can be economically sustained. The Agreement also sets out an agenda for further modernisation of the public service. Payment of the increases in the public service will continue to be dependent on verification of satisfactory implementation of this agenda and the maintenance of industrial peace.
I am confident that the targets set out in the Agreement will be met.
90 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Finance his views on the recent increase in the consumer price index; if his Department has carried out an assessment of the expected implications for the economy of the increase in inflation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24958/06]
Inflation, as measured by annual changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), was 3.9 per cent in May. A large part of the recent pick-up in the annual inflation rate is due to external factors such as higher oil prices and interest rate increases by the ECB.
On Budget day, my Department forecast that CPI inflation will average 2.7 per cent in 2006. This forecast was based on the usual technical assumption of unchanged interest rates. My Department will publish updated forecasts in the autumn.
When measured against the EU harmonised index of consumer prices (which excludes mortgages) our rate of inflation is 3.0 per cent compared to a euro area average of 2.5 per cent in May. When the impact of oil price increases and mortgages is completely stripped out, the rate of inflation falls to more like 2 per cent. While we cannot determine oil prices or interest rate changes and cannot be held to blame for them, the fact that they are increasing requires us as a nation to become more cost-conscious, more productive and more competitive going forward, all three aims which Government fiscal policy, education policy and science and R&D policy is designed to support.
91 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on the Exchequer returns for the first five months of 2006. [24965/06]
As the Deputy may be aware, the monthly Exchequer Returns are available on my Department's website, as are my Department's receipts, expenditure and debt service profiles for 2006.
The results for the first five months of 2006 confirm that the public finances remain sound. The Exchequer Returns to end-May showed a surplus of €1,841 million, compared with a deficit of €143 million for the same period last year and a Budget Day forecast of an Exchequer Deficit of €2,927 million for 2006 as a whole.
Tax receipts to end-May, at €16,698 million were up 16.7 per cent on the same period last year and were €878 million or 5.5 per cent ahead of profile. The main excesses over profile were on Corporation Tax (€317m), Stamp Duty (€226m) and Capital Gains Tax (€188m). Receipts from all other tax heads were also above profile, with the exception of Income Tax receipts, which were €53 million below profile.
Overall issues for net voted expenditure for May 2006 were up €980 million or 7.7 per cent as compared to May 2005. Net voted expenditure at end-May was €490 million or 3.4 per cent below the published profiles, with capital €156 million below and current €335 million below.
92 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Finance his views on the recommendation contained in the NESC report on housing that consideration should be given to a separate tax on second homes; if the Government is considering introducing such a tax; if so, the rate of such a tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24835/06]
I have no plans to introduce a tax on second homes. If any such proposal were to be made it would be necessary to consider the possible impact not only on the demand for such houses but also on the supply of new residences and on employment and output in the construction sector generally. The history of taxation intervention in the residential property market over the past ten years has shown that it is much easier to get the balance wrong than it is to get the balance right in terms of output, prices and employment.
93 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Finance the progress made to date with regard to the implementation of the 12 point programme to improve value for money in public spending, announced by him on 20 October 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24959/06]
As I indicated in my reply to question 12386/06 on 30 March I wrote to my Ministerial colleagues on 20th October last enclosing a copy of my address of the same date to the Dublin Chamber of Commerce and requesting them to ensure that their Departments take all the necessary steps to implement the measures set out in my address. My Department issued a Circular Letter to all Departments on 25 January last outlining in detail the requirements to give effect to the measures in my announcement of 20th October 2005 as well as earlier decisions made by Government in relation to ICT and consultancy procurement. Copies of the Circular Letter were also placed in the Library of the House.
The Circular included changes to existing guidelines in relation to public procurement, consultancy and capital appraisal and outlined the necessary additional steps being taken to give effect to the various value for money measures announced. It is primarily a matter for individual Departments and their agencies to make the necessary arrangements and to implement the changes arising in their area.
Follow up on a number of measures outlined in the Circular of 25 January last falls within the direct responsibility of my Department. In relation to the fixed price contracts, following a very useful exchange of views with representatives of the construction industry earlier this month, I am currently reflecting on the points made with a view to finalising the contracts very shortly. When the contracts are finalised, essential training of the relevant public sector staff will take place to allow the contracts to be available for use by the end of 2006.
The inter-Departmental review group on the guidelines on commissioning consultants will circulate draft guidelines to Departments in the next few weeks for comment. When the guidelines are being finalised, any necessary action on foot of these comments will be implemented as a matter of urgency.
Two further peer reviews of major ICT projects are now underway bringing the total to six reviews.
As regards recruitment and training of specialist staff in ICT projects and consultancies, my Department is still in the process of conducting a survey of all Departments seeking details of areas where skills shortages currently exist. Plans to put in place a new project management course aimed at those in the public service who procure and manage capital projects are advancing.
Whilst not directly related to the measures which I announced on 20 October last, I would also refer the Deputy to my announcement of 11 June last which set out my plans to strengthen arrangements for carrying out Value for Money and Policy Reviews as part of the continuing process of putting in place a framework for achieving better Value for Money for public expenditure.
The existing Expenditure Review Initiative (ERI) will in future be titled Value for Money and Policy Reviews and have a broader coverage than the ERI. It will encompass formal Reviews for the period 2006-2008 already agreed to be carried out under the ERI as well as all other Policy Reviews conducted and commissioned by Departments which impact on Value for Money. The VFM reviews when completed will be published and submitted to the relevant Oireachtas Committee. Other policy reviews which impact on VFM may also, at the discretion of individual Ministers, be published and submitted to the relevant Committee. Departments will also report on progress on Value for Money issues in their Annual Reports and identify separately in their Estimates their expenditure on VFM and Policy Reviews.
Some ninety formal Value for Money Reviews will be carried out by Departments and Offices under a programme of reviews for the period 2006-2008. Details of these reviews have been placed in the Library of the House. Each Department's and Office's programme of reviews will focus on significant areas of expenditure and major policy issues and will, as a general rule, have a minimum coverage of 10-15% of each Department's and Office's Budget.
A Central Expenditure Evaluation Unit is also being established in my Department. It will promote the Department's role in relation to VFM including reviewing compliance by Departments and Agencies with capital appraisal guidelines and recent VFM requirements such as audits of major projects. The Unit will also assist the implementation of the overall Value for Money Review Framework.
97 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the planned sale of State property announced by the Minister of State; the property sold to date and the amount raised; the way in which the money used has been raised; the properties planned to sell during 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24961/06]
As part of the Transforming of State Assets programme the following properties have been disposed:
|
Property |
Method of Sale |
Price |
|
€ |
||
|
2 Church St., Dungarvan, Co. Waterford |
Public Auction |
337,000.00 |
|
Lad Lane, Dublin 2. |
Public Tender |
22,500,000.00 |
|
Blacklion Customs Frontier Post Site — Cavan |
Private Treaty to Cavan Co. Co. |
21,586.23 |
|
72-76 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2. |
Public Tender |
52,300,000.00 |
|
Kilmacthomas G.S., Co. Waterford |
Private Treaty to Waterford Co. Co. |
100,000.00 |
|
14/16 Lord Edward Street, Dublin 8. |
Public Tender |
8,780,140.48.00 |
|
Thomastown GS, Co. Kilkenny |
Public Auction |
450,000.00 |
|
Total 2004 |
84,488,726.71 |
|
Property |
Method of Sale |
Price |
|
€ |
||
|
Dungloe Former SWO, Co. Donegal |
Private Treaty |
300,000.00 |
|
Leighlinbridge GS, Co. Carlow — disposal of part of site |
Public Auction |
165,000.00 |
|
Ashbourne GS — disposal of part of site |
Public Auction |
2,125,000.00 |
|
St. John’s Road site (Westgate) |
Public Tender |
44,916,551.79 |
|
Ballinskelligs Old Garda Station, Co. Kerry |
Public Auction |
409,693.03 |
|
Kilronan CGS, Galway. Sale of site to Údarás. |
Private Treaty |
1,416.53 |
|
Galway — 16 Eyre Square |
Private Treaty |
9,920.59 |
|
26-27 Eden Quay, Dublin 1. |
Public Tender |
4,205,000.00 |
|
Chantilly site, Rathmichael, Co. Dublin |
CPO compensation |
5,162,202.65 |
|
TOTAL 2005: |
57,294,784.59 |
|
Property |
Method of Sale |
Price |
|
€ |
||
|
The former Vet. College, Shelbourne Road, Dublin 4 |
Public Tender |
171,558,110.36 |
|
Lynch’s Lodge Hotel, Macroom, Co. Cork |
Public Tender |
2,300,036.08 |
|
Athboy Garda Station, Co. Meath — Disposal of rear of property. |
Private Treaty |
3,266.54 |
|
Tipperary former Military Barracks — Tenure & Disposal |
Private Treaty (Tipperary UDC) |
2,540.00 |
|
Tipperary former Military Barracks — Tenure & Disposal |
Private Treaty (South Eastern Health Board) |
4,444.00 |
|
Faculty Building, Shelbourne Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 |
Public Tender (Closing date 30th June ’06) |
35,891,000.00 |
|
Total (To-date) 2006 |
209,759,396.98 |
The proceeds of these sales are forwarded to the Department of Finance as extra Exchequer receipts to be offset against funding for decentralisation.
Properties identified to date for disposal in 2006 are as follows:
|
Property for Sale |
Method of Sale |
Guide Price / Sale Price |
|
€ |
||
|
Muff Garda Station, Co. Donegal |
Public Auction |
195,000 |
|
Bridgend former Customs & Excise Post, Co. Donegal |
Public Auction |
350,000 |
|
Gardiner St. former SWO, Dublin 1. |
Private Treaty |
Property swap plus €2.5m |
|
CPO Ballyshannon SWO, Co. Donegal |
CPO Compensation |
2,500 |
|
38-39 Parnell Sq. West, Dublin 1 |
Public Tender (Due 7th July ’06) |
Identification of properties surplus to requirements is continuously evolving; premature release of disposal information and timescales would affect the potential income from such disposals.
99 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on the work of the Decentralisation Implementation Group; when they last met with his Minister of State; when they last reported on their work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24948/06]
The Decentralisation Implementation Group last published a report to government in June 2005.
I met with the Chair of the Implementation Group recently to receive an update in relation to the progress being made in the implementation of the programme, the issues arising in the implementation of the programme, and to restate the Government's commitment to the implementation of the programme in full.
The Chairman provided me with an update on the outcome of the meetings the Group held earlier this year with Secretaries General of decentralising Government Departments. He has assured me that the Group is satisfied with the level of planning in each of the Departments, and is confident that the senior civil service are leading the implementation of this programme in a professional and carefully planned manner.
The Group is currently meeting with the Chief Executives of a number of State Agencies to discuss the planning framework in place, to assess progress to date and to hear about the challenges arising and steps proposed to address them.
My colleague, the Minister of State, has not met with the Group.
100 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on progress in reforming the budgetary process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24813/06]
In my Budget speech last December, I set out the Government's proposals for reforming the budgetary process.
As I said I would on Budget Day, I subsequently wrote to the opposition Finance spokespersons and the Party Whips on 20 December last to invite them to a briefing on the Government's proposals for reform.
A briefing session on the reform process for all the Opposition Finance Spokespersons and Party Whips was organised for 10 May. This was attended by the Green Party and Independent Group spokespersons. A request has been received since from the Fine Gael Finance Spokesperson for the same briefing and I am looking at a mutually suitable date for holding such a briefing.
My Department continues preparations for replacing the traditional Economic Review and Outlook document with the updated three year economic and fiscal projections with a view to publication in the autumn.
In the meantime, Departments are continuing with their preparations of the annual output statement to be presented with their Estimates for 2007. This Department plans to hold a further seminar for Departments and Offices on 5th July next to assist them in this regard.
As I said in the Budget, once bedded down, these proposals can lay the ground work for consideration of a more unified Budget approach in the future.
101 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Finance if his officials, together with other Departments, have assessed the implications of the Institute of Public Administration report on the management of State agencies; and if policy changes are envisaged or have been implemented on foot of same. [24809/06]
The officials in my Department are in the process of examining this report. The findings will be taken into consideration among other things, as part of the ongoing review of the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies.
102 Mr. English asked the Minister for Finance if he will review the exclusion of SSIAs from the terms of the DIRT refund scheme whereby pensioners or persons with a disability are entitled to a refund of tax on interest deducted at source. [24924/06]
The SSIAs were introduced in the 2001 Finance Act and give a credit to all SSIA investors of 25%. The aim of the SSIA scheme was to encourage savings. This aim has been successfully achieved with over 1.1 million persons availing of the special scheme.
It is widely acknowledged that one of the reasons for the success of the SSIA scheme was its simplicity. It was clearly stated from the very outset that the SSIA investment returns would be subject to a 23% exit tax at maturity with no exemptions for anyone. I have no plans to change this. Although all SSIA accounts are subject to an exit tax, it should be noted that the SSIA scheme represented a very good deal for all of those taking it up. For example, a person who will have saved €254 per month over 5 years into their SSIA account, will receive a credit of €3,800 from the Exchequer even before any interest is taken into account.
It should be noted that DIRT on deposit interest was introduced in 1986 and only two reliefs apply, i.e. for those aged 65 or over and for the physically or mentally incapacitated, where the DIRT is deducted by the financial institution on the deposit interest and is refunded if the person claiming the refund is not otherwise liable to income tax on their total income. Thus, it is not a total tax exemption for all those aged 65 or over, or for the incapacitated.
103 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Finance the persons to whom information regarding political party policy costing requests are made available; the persons to whom they should not be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24810/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, for many years and with the agreement of successive Ministers for Finance, the Department has made available a facility for costing proposals of political parties on a confidential basis. The arrangements were reviewed following the last General Election and a report on the matter is now on my Department's website. The recommendations contained in the Report are being implemented.
The essential feature of the arrangements is, and always has been, that information on what proposals were costed, or the costs provided, are given only to those within the Department who need to know for the purpose of meeting the request. In particular, information is not passed to the Minister, the Minister of State, or any political advisors or other political appointees.
The procedure to ensure confidentiality of the processing of such costings within the Department, or where other Departments or Offices are being consulted, is laid down in an Office Notice (3/06) and I will arrange to have a copy sent to the Deputy. Requests for costings are made direct to the Secretary General of the Department of Finance. Officials who carry out such costings exercises are not normally made aware of the source of the request and all relevant records of the Department on such costings are kept centrally, under lock and key, by a Principal Officer who co-ordinates the process and is a member of staff of the Office of the Secretary General for that purpose.
The same official acts as the Deciding Officer in respect of any request received under the Freedom of Information Act relating to such records. As the Deputy will be aware, Section 46 (1)(da) of the Freedom of Information Act 2003 provides that the FOI Act does not apply to "a record held by a public body relating to the costing, assessment or consideration of any proposal of a political party carried out for or on behalf of that party".
I believe that the system in place protects the confidentiality of the requests and this should assuage the concerns of the Deputy in this regard.
104 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Finance the cost of tax relief for private pensions in each of the past 10 years; and the average number of people who availed of such tax relief in each of those years. [24857/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the relevant available information relates to the cost of tax relief on pension contributions by employers, employees and self-employed and the exemption from tax of income and gains in the pension funds. This information, together with the numbers of employee and self-employed contributors, is provided for the ten income tax years 1993-94 to 2002, the latest year for which it is available. The estimates of cost in relation to contributions by employers and contributions by employees are particularly tentative as this information is not captured in such a way as to enable more precise estimates to be compiled.
It should be noted that as PAYE taxpayers were charged to tax on their earnings in the period from 6 April to 31 December 2001 and self-employed taxpayers were assessed to tax for that short year on 74% of the profits earned in a 12 month accounting period, the cost figures will not be directly comparable with those of earlier or later years.
A married couple who has elected or has deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit.
|
Estimated Cost |
1993/94 |
1994/95 |
1995/96 |
1996/97 |
1997/98 |
1998/99 |
1999/00 |
2000/01 |
2001 |
2002 |
|
Cost of tax relief on contributions by employers and employees and exemption of income and gains in the pension funds* |
€565m |
€750m |
€902m |
€1.2bn |
€1.5bn |
€1.8bn |
€2.2bn |
€2.4bn |
€1.8bn |
€2.5bn |
|
Numbers of employees contributing to approved superannuation schemes** |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
n/a |
569,220 |
629,800 |
670,500 |
709,300 |
|
Cost of tax relief on ‘Retirement Annuity Contracts’ available to the self-employed and to employees not in occupational pension schemes |
€54m |
€66m |
€72m |
€91m |
€91m |
€116m |
€181m |
€205m |
€185m |
€251m |
|
Numbers |
52,200 |
59,200 |
62,800 |
67,000 |
72,200 |
92,900 |
104,500 |
109,300 |
109,600 |
110,600 |
105 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Finance his views on the implications for the economy here of the recent quarter point increase in interest rates announced by the European Central Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24935/06]
Interest rates are currently very low in historical terms, and the recent increases would appear to have had a limited impact on the economy so far. Future impacts depend on the scale of any further increases and on the state of the EU and world economy generally at the time.
107 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has evaluated the likely impact of current or proposed interest rate increases with particular reference to future economic growth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24858/06]
Interest rates are currently very low in historical terms, and the recent increases would appear to have had a limited impact on the economy so far. Future impacts depend on the scale of any further increases and on the state of the EU and world economy generally at the time.
108 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance the numbers of staff in the Department of Finance, the Office of Public Works and the Revenue Commissioners in the general service grades of principal officer, assistant principal officer, higher executive officer, executive officer, staff officer and clerical officer who have resigned in each of the years, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24966/06]
The following are the number of staff in general service grades from Principal to Clerical Officer in my Department who have resigned each year from 2002 to date:
|
Department of Finance |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
Principal Officer |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assistant Principal |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Administrative Officer |
2 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
Executive Officer |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Staff Officer |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Clerical Officer |
8 |
9 |
5 |
5 |
0 |
In relation to the Office of Public Works and the Revenue Commissioners, the following information has been supplied:
|
Office of Public Works |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
Principal Officer |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assistant Principal |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Executive Officer |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
Staff Officer |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Clerical Officer |
3 |
5 |
5 |
6 |
3 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
Principal Officer |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
Assistant Principal |
2 |
0 |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
6 |
1 |
1 |
4 |
1 |
|
Administrative Officer |
1 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
0 |
|
Executive Officer |
6 |
3 |
12 |
10 |
2 |
|
Staff Officer |
3 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
2 |
|
Clerical Officer |
90 |
61 |
48 |
44 |
17 |
109 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Finance if the amount of revenue which the State raises from the housing sector by way of VAT on building materials and stamp duties has influenced his position in relation to the introduction of a tax on second homes; and if previously it was a factor in delaying the abolition of property based tax incentives. [24840/06]
The Government's policy on property taxation is reviewed as part of the annual budget and Finance Bill cycle, taking into consideration circumstances of the housing market and economy as a whole.
In Budget 2006, I announced the termination of a range of property-based tax schemes, in light of a comprehensive review of this area conducted in 2005. The policy consideration referred to by the Deputy was not a determining factor in this review process.
110 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Finance the position with regard to the acquisition of new premises, under the Government decentralisation programme, as it impacts on the Department of Defence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23783/06]
Newbridge: The Office of Public Works has identified a suitable site in Newbridge Town for the Decentralising Department of Defence Offices for 271 staff and negotiations to acquire it are at an advanced stage.
OPW are hopeful, subject to all the outstanding planning, legal, technical and negotiation issues being resolved over the coming months, that the site can be acquired in time to allow construction to commence next year.
The Curragh: The new Defence Forces Headquarters will be constructed within the Curragh Camp Complex in County Kildare. Subject to a satisfactory outcome to the Part 9 planning process, it is expected that a contract will be placed at the end 2007 with work being completed on the project by mid 2009.
113 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the evaluations of public spending programmes which his Department has undertaken during the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24957/06]
My Department monitors expenditure on its programmes on an ongoing basis throughout the year. In addition, my Department has completed a procurement improvement project in the last 12 months.
As regards formal evaluations, the Department has, in the last 12 months, completed and published two evaluations under the Expenditure Review Initiative (ERI), of the Change Management Fund and the grant-in-aid to the Institute of Public Administration. The ERI has now been recast as the Value for Money (VFM) and policy review process, with a broader VFM focus, and my Department will complete evaluations under it of the Information Society Fund and the grant-in-aid to the Economic and Social Research Institute later this year.
In the area of taxation, my Department conducted reviews in 2005 of a range of tax schemes, in conjunction with the Office of the Revenue Commissioners, while independent reviews of the various property-based tax incentive schemes and renewal reliefs were commissioned from external consultants. As a result of this major review exercise, I announced in Budget 2006 that a range of tax schemes would be modified or terminated.
Finally, the National Development Plan/Community Support Framework (NDP/ CSF) Evaluation Unit of the Department has completed the following reviews in the last 12 months:
—Evaluation of the In-Company Training Measures under the NDP/CSF 2000-2006
—Evaluation of Water Services Investment in the NDP/CSF 2000-2006
—Update Evaluation of the CSF for Ireland 2000-2006.
114 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance the rate of stamp duty applicable on the sale or leasing of farms; the cost to the Exchequer of applying stamp duty relief to farmers under fifty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24620/06]
In the case of the sale of farmland stamp duty is payable on the purchase price. Where the purchase price exceeds the exempt threshold of €10,000 stamp duty is payable at rates ranging from 1% to 9% on the amount of the purchase price as set out in the attached table. The 9% rate applies where the purchase price is over €150,000.
A lease of farmland is chargeable to stamp duty on the basis of the term of the lease and the amount of the premium and rent payable on foot of the lease. As with sales of farm land, where the premium exceeds the exempt threshold of €10,000 stamp duty is payable at rates ranging from 1% to 9% on the amount of the premium. The 9% rate applies where the premium is over €150,000. In addition stamp duty at the rate of 1% is payable on the average annual rent where the term of the lease is under 35 years. Where the term exceeds 35 years and is under 100 years the rate on the average annual rent is 6% and where the term exceeds 100 years the rate is 12%.
Information on the ages of transferees and lessees in property transactions, including farm transfers, is not required or maintained except where applications are received for Stamp Duty exemption on land transfers to young trained farmers. There is, therefore, no statistical basis on which an estimate could be provided for the cost of extending an exemption from Stamp Duties on both leases and sales of farms to all farmers aged under 50 years. The Deputy may be interested to know that the cost of the current stamp duty exemption for young trained farmers is estimated at €31 million in 2005.
In the case of a sale of farmland the bands and rates of stamp duty are as follows.
|
Purchase Price |
Rate of Duty |
|
Up to €10,000 |
Exempt |
|
€10,001 to €20,000 |
1% |
|
€20,001 to €30,000 |
2% |
|
€30,001 to €40,000 |
3% |
|
€40,001 to €70,000 |
4% |
|
€70,001 to €80,000 |
5% |
|
€80,001 to €100,000 |
6% |
|
€100,001 to €120,000 |
7% |
|
€120,001 to €150,000 |
8% |
|
Over €150,000 |
9% |
In the case of a lease of farmland stamp duty is payable on both the premium and the average rent payable under the lease. The same bands and rates of duty apply to the premium in a lease as apply to the purchase price in the case of a sale. In addition stamp duty is chargeable as follows on the average annual rent.
|
Term of Lease |
Rate |
|
Lease for a term not exceeding 35 years or for any indefinite term |
1% of the average annual rent |
|
Lease for a term exceeding 35 years but not exceeding 100 years |
6% of the average annual rent |
|
Lease for a term exceeding 100 years |
12% of the average annual rent |
115 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the number of random audits carried out by the Revenue Commissioners in each year from 2000 to date in 2006; the number of tax defaulters that were identified by these audits; the number of prosecutions that resulted from the audits; the value of the money collected on the basis of these audits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24942/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the details in relation to the audits settled under their random audit programmes from 2000 to 2005 are as follows:
|
Year of Programme |
Number of Cases Selected |
Number of Cases Settled |
Number of Cases Providing Extra Yield |
Yield |
|
€ |
||||
|
2000 |
402 |
437 |
95 |
626,564 |
|
2001 |
1,000 |
740 |
230 |
3,381,890 |
|
2002 |
1,000 |
720 |
229 |
2,879,121 |
|
2003 |
1,000 |
274 |
122 |
3,434,791 |
|
2004 (Note 1) |
NIL |
25 |
13 |
155,153 |
|
2005 (Note 2) |
411 |
351 |
91 |
1,015,456 |
Note 1. The random audit programme was reviewed in 2004. Cases on hands that were not substantially completed were not carried forward to the new 2005 ‘Taxpayer Compliance Testing Programme'. Hence, only 25 cases are recorded.
Note 2. These cases were settled in 2005 and 2006. As at 28 June 2006, 60 cases relating to the 2005 ‘Taxpayer Compliance Testing Programme' are ongoing.
I am advised that no prosecutions resulted from these audits.
I should point out that the methodology used in the selection of random audits was not the same for all of the years in question. Following discussions between Revenue and the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General the programme was reviewed and replaced in November 2004 by the Taxpayer Compliance Testing Programme, which ensures that cases are selected on a purer random basis.
Following an evaluation of the 2005 programme the 2006 programme is due to commence shortly. The sample size for 2006 is expected to be in the region of 400.
116 Mr. Neville asked the Taoiseach the marriage rate per 100,000 in 2005. [25321/06]
The number of marriages registered in 2005 was 20,723. This equates to 502 marriages per 100,000 population. This figure is subject to revision.
117 Mr. Neville asked the Taoiseach the number of children born to single mothers in 2005. [25323/06]
The number of births registered outside marriage in 2005 was 19,528.
118 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the procedures persons (details supplied) must take to adopt a child from the United Kingdom; the guidelines or conventions that would determine such an adoption; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25302/06]
In accordance with the 1991 Adoption Act, in order to adopt, a person, or persons, who are resident in Ireland must apply for a Declaration of Eligibility and Suitability. Such Declarations are issued by the Adoption Board.
The application must be made through their local Health Service Executive Office / Adoption Society. A list of these offices is attached below for the Deputy's information.
The applicant(s) will be assessed by the Health Service Executive or Adoption Society to have their eligibility and suitability established. The assessment process itself involves a number of stages and the length of the 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.
List of HSE (Adoption Services) Countrywide:
PACT 15, Belgrave Road, Rathmines,Dublin 6.
H.S.E. Midland Area Health Centre, Dublin Road, Longford.
H.S.E. Mid Western Area Adoption & Fostering Centre, Parkbeg House, 2 Elm Drive, Caherdavin Lawn, Limerick.
St. Catherine's Adoption Society Clarecare Harmony Row, Ennis, County Clare.
H.S.E. North Eastern Area Adoption Service, St. Mary's Hospital, Dublin Road, Drogheda, County Louth.
H.S.E. North Western Area Regional Adoption Service, Custom House, 2 The Quays, Sligo.
H.S.E. Southern Area Adoption Department, Unit 4, South Ring Business Park, Kinsale Road, Cork.
H.S.E. South Eastern Area, 2 St. Andrew's Terrace, New Town, Waterford.
CLANN H.S.E. Western Area, The Annexe, West City Centre, Seamus Quirke Road, Galway.
H.S.E. Midland Area Fostering & Adoption Services, A.C.C. Building, Harbour Street, Tullamore, County Offaly.
H.S.E. Southern Area Kerry Adoption & Fostering Team, 6 Denny Street, Tralee, County Kerry.
H.S.E. South Western Area, Dartmouth House, Kylemore Road, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10.
119 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of people in Ireland who suffer from Mucoepithelial Dysplasia; the support services and entitlements which are available to them. [25075/06]
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.
120 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the policy in place in her Department for meeting the needs of Kildare’s rapidly growing elderly population and in particular those people who require a public bed in a nursing home; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25082/06]
Access to public nursing home care is based on the capacity of the Health Service Executive to deliver such care. This is itself subject to the resources available to the Executive having regard to all its responsibilities for the delivering of health services generally. Entitlement to public nursing home care is subject to resources and capacity.
The Report of the Long-Term Care Working Group which was established by the Tánaiste and Minister Séamus Brennan discussed issues relating to the future policy direction of long term care for older people and it is currently being considered by the Government.
121 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her Department has received proposals from private companies to build private medical care units on lands (details supplied) in County Wexford; the plans she has for such lands; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25083/06]
I am not aware of any proposals from private companies to build on land owned by the Health Service Executive in County Wexford.
However, I have asked the Health Service Executive to investigate this matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.
122 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans to visit Wexford General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25084/06]
The Deputy will wish to note that it is my intention to visit Wexford General Hospital when I am next in the area.
123 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the proposals she has to regulate medical herbalists (details supplied) via the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25085/06]
It is not proposed to regulate medical herbalists under the Health and Social Care Professionals Act 2005. The twelve professions included in the Health and Social Care Professionals Act were chosen because they are long established providers of health and social care within the public health service and, in most instances, also have experience of self-regulation. In addition, the qualifications of the majority of these professions are currently regulated within the public health service. This is not the case for medical herbalists.
Section 4 of the Act provides for the inclusion, by Regulation, of additional professions in the proposed system of statutory registration. This section also sets out the criteria the Minister shall have regard to in considering the designation of further professions under the Act. It would be a matter for the Health and Social Care Professionals Council, in the first instance, to advise the Minister on whether a profession should be regarded as a health and social care profession and be considered for regulation under the Act.
124 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the number of residential detoxification beds for recovering drug misusers in the various Health Service Executive regions, run or funded by her Department or the HSE, for each year since 1996. [25086/06]
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.
125 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the number of state-funded drug treatment and rehabilitation programmes which are in accordance with the quality standards of the Health Service Executive as per Action 50 of the National Drugs Strategy; the number that fail; the action being taken to ensure 100 percent compliance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25087/06]
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.
126 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on opening methadone clinics and needle exchange programmes in the State outside of Dublin to allow for local access to treatment for injecting heroin addicts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25088/06]
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.
127 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will intervene on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo and ensure that their treatment is carried out. [25089/06]
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 respond directly to the Deputy in relation to the matter raised.
128 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) cannot be given an appointment for a necessary knee replacement operation in Waterford Regional Hospital before 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25090/06]
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.
129 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when provision will be made for occupational therapy to be provided on a regular basis to enable a person (details supplied) in County Wexford to continue in main stream education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25091/06]
I have been advised by the Health Service Executive that the matter raised by the Deputy is currently being examined in the Local Health Office in Wexford.
130 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of nursing homes that tendered for high dependency and intermediate care for the former ERHA in 2005; the number of homes that were not successful; if she will name the homes and the dates on which any of these homes were found to have high dependent residents without adequate and appropriate care; the action taken as a result; the date of such action; if these residents are still resident in these homes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25092/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
131 Mr. O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the action she proposes to deal with the shortage of public health nurses which is affecting the delivery of services to mothers of new born babies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25093/06]
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 the matter investigated and have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
132 Mr. O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the person who has responsibility for food hygiene in butcher shops; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25094/06]
Food hygiene in butchers' shops is the responsibility of the food business operator concerned. However, to ensure that the relevant legislation is complied with, inspections are carried out by authorised officers acting pursuant to a service contract with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI). Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) of the Health Service Executive (HSE) have responsibility for the inspection of retail butchers. Where contraventions of the legislation are identified during such inspections, appropriate action will be taken.
In addition to their enforcement functions, EHOs also give advice on compliance to food business operators and the FSAI also provides advice and guidance.
133 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement on the composition of the team that has been formed by the Health Service Executive to assess the implications of information relating to Leas Cross; when the team was set up; the number of meetings they have had to date; when it is expected that they will report and if their report will be published. [25095/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
134 Mr. Noonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the arrangements she is making to ensure that the 700 persons suffering from Parkinson’s disease in the mid-west region have neurological services; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that at present they have the services of a visiting neurologist and one permanent nurse only; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25177/06]
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.
135 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) who has a European health insurance card can be given kidney dialysis treatment here if they come home here for a week; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25191/06]
Regulation (EC) 1408/71 provides for the coordination of social security systems, including healthcare, among EU member states. Under the Regulation, those who are insured with or covered by the healthcare system of one member state but who are residing or staying in another member state receive healthcare in the state of residence or stay on behalf of the member state with which they are insured or covered. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides evidence of this entitlement.
Persons staying in Ireland and in possession of a valid EHIC may receive healthcare, through the public healthcare system that becomes necessary during their stay taking into account the nature of the care and the expected length of stay.
It is recognised that people requiring certain specialised treatments, in particular oxygen therapy or dialysis, are entitled to such care under these arrangements while on a temporary stay abroad, on the basis that prior agreements are entered into in regard to the availability of appropriate services. This arrangement is accepted by all member states, given that such specialised treatments may not be available in all locations. The aim is to ensure that freedom of movement is not adversely affected for a person requiring such treatments.
In this case, the person concerned should contact the Health Services Executive (HSE), North Eastern Area, Kells, Co. Meath — Tel: 00 353 (0)46 9240341 or e-mail info@HSE.ie — to make appropriate arrangements for dialysis care during her stay in Ireland.
136 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of physiotherapists who qualify here each year; the number of sanctioned posts here for qualified physiotherapists; when this number was set; when this number is due to be reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25192/06]
Four universities provide BSc degrees in physiotherapy. University College Dublin have 56 places on their undergraduate degree course and have 54 students graduating this year. University of Limerick have 30 places on their undergraduate degree course and have 27 students graduating this year. The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland have 25/26 places on their undergraduate degree course and have 25 students graduating this year. Finally, Trinity College Dublin have 40 on their undergraduate degree course and have 47 students graduating this year.
My Department does not issue national employment quotas for individual health service grades. The number of posts in various staff categories is a matter for the HSE which, in determining posts, must have regard to service requirements and public sector employment policies. 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.
137 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the medical card scheme providing payment to general practitioners who employ a full or part-time physiotherapist in their practice, thus reducing demands on hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25194/06]
Primary Care — A New Direction (2001) set out this Government's vision for the development of primary care as a central focus in the delivery of health and personal social care services. The Strategy aims to shift the emphasis from an over-reliance on acute hospital services to one where patients can access an integrated multi — disciplinary service in their local community. I am confident that this development of the services available in the primary care setting can reduce the demand on acute services in hospitals by meeting the vast majority of day-to-day health care needs in the local community.
There is currently no provision within the GMS contract for general practitioners to receive additional remuneration in respect of the delivery of a physiotherapy service in the manner suggested by the Deputy.
Implementation of the Primary Care Strategy is focusing on the development of integrated multi-disciplinary teams including general practitioners, nurses, health care assistants, home helps, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and others. The 2006 Estimate for the HSE includes an additional €10 million in revenue funding to enable the establishment of up to 100 new primary care teams. This will enable the provision of some 300 additional frontline personnel to work alongside GPs in order to provide integrated and accessible services in the community. The draft national partnership agreement, if ratified by the social partners will provide for the development of further primary care teams during the lifetime of the agreement.
138 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding a general practitioner who wishes to set up a private practice in an area with respect to accessing medical card patients; if there are restrictions on the GP; if there is a limit to the number of medical card patients permitted per doctor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25228/06]
Entry to the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme for general practitioners is normally through open competition and interview following advertisements in national and medical newspapers. All suitably qualified persons may apply for these positions. The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive (HSE), which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the Executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the selection and recruitment of general practitioners to provide services under the GMS Scheme.
Applicants for GMS GP contracts, whether from this or another jurisdiction, must satisfy the provisions of EU Directive (93/16/EEC). This Directive facilitates the free movement of doctors and the mutual recognition of their diplomas, certificates and other evidence of formal qualifications. It also stipulates the requirement in respect of vocational training for persons seeking to be considered for such posts.
As part of agreements between the Department of Health and Children and the GP representative body, the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO), made in 1999 and again in 2001 between the Health Service Employers Agency and the IMO, limited entry to the GMS Scheme was possible for suitably qualified GPs. These agreements allowed for those GPs who were interested and qualified to hold limited GMS contracts. These limited GMS contracts allowed GPs to treat their over 70s patients who qualified for a medical card for the first time, following the phased increase in the income level for eligibility assessment in 1999, and again following the introduction of the statutory entitlement to a medical card for all persons aged 70 years and over from 1 July 2001. After specified periods GPs holding these limited contracts would become eligible for full GMS contracts and be able to provide services to any medical card patient who might choose to be included on their patient panel list.
Also in June 2005 the Labour Relations Commission (LRC) recommended a once off entry arrangement be provided for doctors accepting GP Visit card patients and who met certain qualifying conditions.
Under the GMS Scheme general practitioners hold one of two contract types i.e. the Fee per Item contract (first introduced in 1972) or the Capitation contract (effective from 1989). These contracts reflect the agreed outcome of negotiations between the Department of Health and Children and the IMO. Both contract types contain provisions which were agreed between the parties on a range of issues including the limitation of numbers of patients placed on the list of the practitioner.
Under the 1972 and 1989 contracts the number of persons whose names may be placed on the list of the practitioner shall not exceed 2,000 save where the HSE, in exceptional circumstances, after consultation with the IMO, decide to apply a higher limit.
A review of the contractual arrangements for the provision of services under the GMS and other publicly funded schemes commenced in October 2005 and is being conducted under the auspices of the LRC. As part of the contract framework the management team are seeking to agree open access to GMS contracts for all qualified GPs.
139 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason old age pensioners with medical cards have to pay for a medical certificate in order to renew their driving licence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25277/06]
142 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to the doctors charge for the over 70s who need an eye sight test fo their driving licence renewal applications; if she will have same examined with a view to having this test covered under the medical card; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25286/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 139 and 142 together.
In making arrangements for the provision of publicly funded GP services, under the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme, an agreement was negotiated between the Department of Health and Children and the GP representative body, the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO). The provisions of this agreement took the form of the current GMS GP Capitation Contract. This contract is a treatment based contract and gives effect to the statutory requirement to provide free GP medical and surgical services to eligible people which includes people aged 70 and over who are automatically entitled to a medical card. The contract stipulates that the fees paid to the GMS GP's are not made in respect of certain certificates which may be required for example ‘under the Social Welfare Acts or for the purposes of insurance or assurance policies or for the issue of driving licences'. As these non-treatment type services are outside of the GMS contract it is a matter between the GP and the person seeking the particular services to agree a fee.
While certificates for applications are provided by medical practitioners they are not a medical service and are not considered a core aspect of public health service provision. Requiring such services to be provided within the terms of the GMS GP contract would more than likely lead to a costly counterclaim by GP's which if allowed would not represent appropriate or best use of resources in terms of current health policy.
140 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps she has taken to help the victims of symphisiotomy; if she has met the victims; and the action she intends to take to assist them. [25284/06]
My predecessor, Minister Martin, met with the Survivors of Symphysiotomy (S.O.S.) Group in late 2003 and agreed that a range of measures would be put in place to support the Group. My Department is advised by the Health Service Executive (HSE) that the current position with regard to the services now in place is as follows:—
•The former health boards and the relevant voluntary hospitals have appointed liaison officers, who met and continue to meet with patients who have undergone symphysiotomy to discuss their healthcare needs.
•Independent clinical advice is available, on request, through the liaison personnel, to patients who have undergone symphysiotomy. This has already been availed of by a number of members of S.O.S. and appropriate follow-up has been arranged.
•An assessment service for patients was established at Cappagh Hospital, Dublin. This service is provided by a multi-disciplinary team which undertakes an assessment of patients, following which recommendations for care pathways are discussed with individual patients.
•Medical cards, based on medical grounds, have been granted, to S.O.S. patients.
•The HSE has issued replacement medical cards containing a unique patient identifier that is designed to allow for the fast-tracking of patients who require hospital appointments and/or treatments. The provision of certain non-GMS items recommended for patients by their GP and /or consultant will continue and the pharmacist/supplier will be reimbursed by the HSE.
•In addition, medical expenses related to symphysiotomy may be refunded, where necessary, to patients in respect of medication/private treatments required to address the effects of symphysiotomy.
•Applications for home help and house modifications are dealt with on an individual basis and applications are fast-tracked, where necessary.
•Independent counselling services are available to patients where requested.
•Information packs have been made available to general practitioners and relevant healthcare personnel.
I met with the Chairperson of the SOS Group on the 17th January last. The Chairperson expressed satisfaction with regard to progess made to date.
I am satisfied that considerable progress has been made in putting in place the required level of support for patients who have undergone symphysiotomy. The HSE will continue to oversee the provision of necessary support services for this patient group. With the increasing use of caesarean section as a means of delivery, symphysiotomy is now rarely employed in obstetric practice.
141 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason no new funding has been received by Waterford Regional Hospital in 2006 to support further development of endocrinology services as a priority in the management of chronic illness in line with the National Development Plan objective and in context of equity of access and regional self-sufficiency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25285/06]
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.
143 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the directives she has issued with regard to the additional funding totalling €100 million which is to be included for the improvement of health funded support services for people with disabilities; the amount of the €100 million to address core under-funding and core staffing issues in services provided by the voluntary sector, having regard to the needs of people with disabilities which will be allocated to County Sligo and north Leitrim; if consideration of these needs will take into account an urgent case for funding of necessary services currently provided through FÁS employment schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25295/06]
My Department has issued the following proposed developments to the Health Service Executive (HSE) in relation to expenditure for Disability Services in 2006. €58.8m has been provided in 2006 to meet costs associated with the following: Services for Persons with Intellectual Disability and Those with Autism; €39.5m 255 new residential places; 85 new respite places; 535 new day places; and €2.2m to continue the implementation of the transfer of persons with intellectual disability/autism from psychiatric hospitals and other inappropriate placements. Services for Persons with Physical or Sensory Disabilities; €11.8m 80 new residential places for persons with significant disabilities who are currently placed in inappropriate settings; 250,000 extra hours of home support and personal assistance; and funding has also been provided for the employment of up to three Resource Officers to assist persons with sensory disabilities and for the provision of assistive/adaptive technology for people with sensory disabilities (€0.5m).
Mental Health Services; €7.5m.
€7.5m to support the provision of additional community based mental health facilities, including mental health day centres, day hospitals and community residential facilities.
Additional Disability Support Services:
In addition to the specific high profile disability services which are included in the programme outlined above, additional funding amounting to €41.2m has been provided as follows: Intellectual, Physical and Sensory Disability/Autism — €22.5m.
Additional funding amounting to €12.5m has been provided to enhance the level and range of multi-disciplinary support services available to adults and children with intellectual, physical and sensory disabilities and those with autism, with a priority in 2006 on enhancing the assessment and support services for children with disabilities.
Additional funding amounting to €10m has been made available to address core under funding and core staffing issues in services for people with disabilities provided by the voluntary sector. The principles underpinning the allocation of this funding is to be the subject of further discussion between the relevant officials in the Department and the HSE. Mental Health Services — €18.7m.
Additional funding amounting to €17.5m has been provided to enhance the level and range of multi-disciplinary support services available to adults and children with mental illness.
Funding of €1.2m has been provided to support the implementation of "Reach Out — National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention 2005 — 2014". Decisions in relation to the specific matters raised by the Deputy regarding the allocation of funding are a matter for the HSE. Therefore 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.
144 Mr. McCormack asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps she will take to ensure the establishment of a warfarin clinic at University College Hospital, Galway, in view of the fact that this is the centre of highest population in the western region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25322/06]
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.
145 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of deaths and rates per 100,000 for suicide in the Health Service Executive regional areas and county for each of the years 2002 to 2005. [25326/06]
146 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of deaths by suicide by county, gender and age group for each of the years 2002 to 2005. [25327/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 145 and 146 together.
According to the Central Statistics Office, the number of registered deaths by suicide by age group and gender for each of the years 2002-2005 is as follows:
|
Age Group |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
|
1-4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
5-14 |
3 |
4 |
2 |
3 |
|
15-24 |
105 |
112 |
93 |
80 |
|
25-34 |
127 |
91 |
94 |
94 |
|
35-44 |
77 |
107 |
98 |
90 |
|
45-54 |
74 |
80 |
79 |
80 |
|
55-64 |
52 |
63 |
61 |
44 |
|
65-74 |
28 |
23 |
21 |
29 |
|
75+ |
12 |
17 |
9 |
11 |
|
Total |
478 |
497 |
457 |
431 |
|
Males |
387 |
386 |
356 |
353 |
|
Females |
91 |
111 |
101 |
78 |
Source: CSO.
In relation to the other information requested by the Deputy, I have asked the National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP) to investigate the matter and to reply to the Deputy directly.
147 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement on the State plans to purchase the Blasket Islands. [25076/06]
The Office of Public Works has made formal offers to the landowners in relation to the purchase of their properties on the Island. The deadline for responses from the owners to the offers is the 7th July 2006 and the position will be assessed after that date.
148 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has made a final decision with regard to a site for the proposed offices, for those members of the Revenue staff who are to decentralise to Kildare Town; if the site identified for this purpose at Magee Barracks is to be developed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25077/06]
The Commissioners of Public Works are in discussions with Kildare County Council, in relation to the provision of a suitable site in Kildare Town to accommodate a decentralisation office. At this point, no firm decision has been made in relation to the location of the proposed decentralisation site.
149 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the amount of revenue raised through private companies using Office of Public Works property for events in each of the years 2000 to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25078/06]
The information sought by the Deputy is shown in the following tabular statement. The figures shown in the table are the income received by the OPW for the private hire and use of certain of the properties and facilities that are under the direct management of the OPW. The main properties concerned would be Dublin Castle Conference Centre and State Apartments, the Phoenix Park and Kilkenny Castle.
The income in each year relates mainly to the use of property and facilities by private companies but also includes some income in respect to use by private individuals and public sector companies.
Income received from private use/hire of OPW property and facilities.
|
Year |
Revenue |
|
€ |
|
|
2000 |
406,646 |
|
2001 |
453,022 |
|
2002 |
293,503 |
|
2003 |
547,463 |
|
2004 |
548,345 |
|
2005 |
451,609 |
|
2006 (to date) |
109,513 |
150 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Finance if examinations will be made into the further charge of €40, if a credit card account is closing which applies from 1 April 2006 to 31 March 2007 inclusive; and if he will accept that this is a double charge on the account; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25079/06]
A person who holds a credit card account with a credit card provider pays stamp duty on that credit card account once for each 12 month period ending on 1 April each year. Where a person cancels a credit card account within a 12 month period he/she pays the charge at the time of cancellation. This means that, in respect of any credit card account, an individual will only pay once for the year ending on the following 1 April. Where the individual closes a credit card after 1 April in any year, a stamp duty charge of €40 will arise, as the account has been maintained by the financial institution during the year ending on the following 1 April. This is consistent with applying a stamp duty charge for a year or part of a year for which the credit card account is held.
In addition, Section 128 of the Finance Act 2005 contained measures to eliminate a double stamp duty charge for the same year on the switching of financial cards. Where a credit card account is closed in the tax year the financial institution will issue a Letter of Closure to the holder of the account stating that the stamp duty has been paid for that year. Where the individual opens a new credit card account at any point in that tax year, the new financial institution, upon receipt of the Letter of Closure, will provide that the stamp duty on the new credit card, normally charged in the following April, will not be applied.
151 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the receipts from stamp duty in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25303/06]
The following table sets out the Exchequer Stamp duty receipts in each of the last five years.
|
Year |
Stamp Duty |
|
€m |
|
|
2001 |
1,227 |
|
2002 |
1,167 |
|
2003 |
1,688 |
|
2004 |
2,088 |
|
2005 |
2,725 |
The large increases in Stamp duty receipts over the last number of years are due primarily to the continued buoyancy of the property market.
152 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the receipts accruing to the Exchequer from capital gains tax in each of the past five years; his projections for the close of 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25304/06]
The following table sets out the Exchequer capital gains tax receipts in each of the past five years.
|
Year |
CGT |
|
€m |
|
|
2001 |
880 |
|
2002 |
627 |
|
2003 |
1,443 |
|
2004 |
1,516 |
|
2005 |
1,960 |
The Budget day target for capital gains tax in 2006 is €2,035 million. While it is now expected that capital gains tax receipts will come in ahead of target this year, it is not possible to say what the outturn will be, given in particular that over 50 per cent of targeted revenues from capital gains tax are not due until November next.
153 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the receipts accruing to the Exchequer from CAT in each of the past five years; his Department’s projections for the close of 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25305/06]
The following table sets out the Exchequer capital acquisitions tax receipts in each of the past five years.
|
Year |
CAT €m |
|
€m |
|
|
2001 |
169 |
|
2002 |
150 |
|
2003 |
214 |
|
2004 |
190 |
|
2005 |
249 |
The Budget day target for Exchequer receipts from capital acquisitions tax in 2006 is €260 million.
154 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which his Department has monitored public spending throughout all Government Departments in each of the past two years; the expected outturn for 2006 in respect of such expenditure; if this is expected to be in accordance with projections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25306/06]
Since 2003, expenditure profiles for all Departmental Vote Groups for the year ahead are published in January and my Department monitors expenditure against these profiles. Each Department and Office reports projected net current and net capital expenditure figures on an issues basis immediately prior to the end of each month. These figures are also included in the Exchequer Statement which is published on the second working day of the following month. I report to Government on a monthly basis on the emerging trends in the public finances.
In addition, Ministers responsible for the four Departments with the largest current spending allocations — Social and Family Affairs; Health and Children; Education and Science; and, Justice, Equality and Law Reform report bi-monthly to Government.
Since the beginning of this year the 5 large capital spending Departments — Environment, Heritage and Local Government; Transport; Education and Science; Health and Children and Enterprise, Trade and Employment — also report progress to Government on a bi-monthly basis on their capital spending.
On the basis of the end May figures (end June are being prepared and will be published on the 4th of July) the outturn for Voted expenditure in 2006 is expected to be broadly in line with the allocations set out in the Revised Estimates for Public Services published on the 23rd of February 2006 except for the reimbursement of long-stay charges in former Health Board funded institutions. Following the recent enactment of the Health (Repayment Scheme) Act, these are now expected to amount to €340 million for 2006 rather than the €400 million provisionally provided for in the Revised Estimates. The balance (€660 million) of the estimated €1 billion for this purpose is likely to be required in 2007 and 2008.
156 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the way in which stamp duty receipts in 2006 to date compare with the corresponding period in previous years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25308/06]
The following table sets out the Exchequer stamp duty receipts and the corresponding year-on-year growth rates for the period to end-May for each of the years from 2000 onwards.
|
Year (to end-May) |
Stamp Duty |
Year-on-Year % Change |
|
€m |
||
|
2000 |
449 |
+33.2 |
|
2001 |
540 |
+20.3 |
|
2002 |
425 |
-21.3 |
|
2003 |
620 |
+45.9 |
|
2004 |
720 |
+16.1 |
|
2005 |
933 |
+29.6 |
|
2006 |
1,293 |
+38.6 |
The large year-on-year increases in Stamp duty receipts in recent years are due primarily to the continued buoyancy of the property market.
157 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which his Department have monitored the expected impact of recent interest rate increases on the economy and the consumer; the way in which economic growth is expected to be affected in the event of further interest rate increases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25309/06]
My Department continually monitors interest rate developments from the point of view of analysing current and future economic developments.
Notwithstanding recent increases, interest rates remain low in historical terms and recent increases would appear to have had a limited impact on the economy so far. Future impacts depend on the scale of any further increases and on the state of the EU and world economy generally at the time.
158 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which income tax returns to date in 2006 compare with previous years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25310/06]
The following table sets out the Exchequer Income tax receipts and the corresponding year-on-year growth rates for the period to end-May for each of the years from 2000 onwards.
|
Year (to end-May) |
Income Tax |
Year-on-Year % Change |
|
€m |
||
|
2000 |
3,762 |
+15.8 |
|
2001 |
4,110 |
+9.3 |
|
2002 |
3,506 |
-14.7 |
|
2003 |
3,152 |
-10.1 |
|
2004 |
3,841 |
+21.9 |
|
2005 |
4,035 |
+5.1 |
|
2006 |
4,421 |
+9.6 |
Income tax receipts to end-May 2006 are just 1.2 per cent below target. The Budget day target for Income tax in 2006 is for an increase of 4.8 per cent over the 2005 outturn.
159 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if banking charges here are in line with, ahead of or lower than other European Countries or within the Eurozone; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25311/06]
Regulation of non-interest bank charges, although a feature of the Irish legislative framework, does not apply in all EU Member States. The information requested by the Deputy is, therefore, not available to my Department. However, the Deputy may wish to note that a recent industry study based on seven members of the eurozone, including Germany, France, Italy and Spain, concluded that charges in Ireland compare favourably with other members of the euro area.
In line with its statutory consumer mandate, the Financial Regulator has produced a number of surveys that compare bank charges for specific products, to help Irish consumers compare charges between credit institutions operating in the State.
Finally, increased competition in the Irish banking sector, reflecting such factors as new entrants and the introduction of a switching code for both personal customers and now the business sector, will benefit consumers through increased choice, innovative products, lower prices and better service.
160 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if he will indicate to what extent ongoing provision is made in the banking and financial service sectors to detect fraud, money laundering or other illegal financial transactions with a view to preserving the integrity of the banking system and preventing international transactions of the proceeds of crime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25312/06]
The procedures for the prevention of money laundering in the financial system primarily involve the requirement on financial institutions (and other designated bodies) to identify their customers, to have adequate anti-money laundering procedures in place, including staff training, to keep records and to report suspicions of money laundering and terrorist financing offences to the Garda Síochána and to the Revenue Commissioners. These procedures arise under the Money Laundering Provisions of the Criminal Justice Act, 1994.
The Financial Regulator requires all institutions which it supervises to comply with the anti-money laundering legislation and relevant sectoral guidance notes, and to have in place the necessary procedures and controls to ensure such compliance. The adequacy of such systems is reviewed by the Financial Regulator in the course of its ongoing supervision of institutions and requirements for improvement are advised to institutions as necessary. Furthermore, in accordance with its legal obligation under Section 57(2) of the Criminal Justice Act, 1994, the Financial Regulator is obliged to make reports to the Garda Síochána and the Revenue Commissioners where in the course of its supervision it suspects that an institution has breached the relevant money laundering provisions of the Criminal Justice Act, 1994.
The Garda Síochána and the Revenue Commissioners regularly receive reports from financial institutions and other designated bodies where they suspect that a money laundering offence is being or has been committed. All such reports are investigated and progressed as appropriate by the relevant authorities.
The Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering (FATF), the international standard setting body in this area recently published a report on Ireland's systems to combat money laundering and terrorist funding. Ireland is one of ten countries evaluated to date in the FATF Third Round of Mutual Evaluations. Its overall ratings are comparable to those obtained by the other countries evaluated.
The revised FATF Money Laundering recommendations of 2003 — the standard against which Ireland's compliance was assessed — have been embodied in the 3rd EU Money Laundering Directive which came into force in December 2005 with a transposition deadline of December 2007.
Ireland opted to be evaluated early in the 3rd Round of Mutual Evaluations because this would be of considerable assistance in planning the transposition of the 3rd EU Money Laundering Directive into Irish Law. Many of the FATF recommendations on which Ireland is currently assessed as either partially compliant or non-compliant will be addressed in the transposition into Irish Law of the 3rd EU Money Laundering Directive. These include additional measures in relation to customer due diligence, measures relating to the identification of foreign politically exposed persons, the strengthening of the sanctions for breaches of money laundering rules and the regulation of non-financial entities.
On publication of the FATF report in March this year my colleague the Minister for Justice Equality and Law Reform and I jointly undertook to examine the Report's recommendations thoroughly and gave a commitment to further strengthen Ireland's anti-money laundering mechanisms. The process of reviewing and updating the Irish legal framework to meet both our domestic needs and international obligations is already under way and wide ranging consultation with the banking, financial services and other relevant sectors has already taken place as part of this process.
161 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if discussions have taken place with a view to extending the Eurozone in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25313/06]
The Ecofin meeting which took place on 7 June 2006 discussed the Convergence Reports produced by the European Commission and the European Central Bank regarding Slovenia and Lithuania. The Commission submitted a proposal for a Council Decision which would allow Slovenia adopt the euro with effect from the 1 January 2007. In accordance with the Treaty, the European Parliament was consulted regarding this proposal and the proposal was also considered by the Heads of State or Government at the European Council meeting on 16 June 2006. The Ecofin Council will reach a final decision on this matter at its next meeting, which is due to take place on 11 July 2006.
162 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will respond to correspondence received (details supplied) regarding works to be carried out to a sculpture. [25324/06]
The Office of Public Works has received a request from Mitchelstown Heritage Society to clean the Fanahan sculpture at Mitchelstown Garda Station. The cleaning project will be undertaken by the Office of Public Works in consultation with the sculptor,Cliodhna Cussen.
163 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the position in relation to Leixlip Garda Station; if tenders are or have been invited; if contracts have been entered into or are pending; if it will take much longer to achieve the provision of the station, approval for which was first given ten years ago; the expected date for the commencement of said works or the opening of the station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25329/06]
A formal decision by the Commissioners of Public Works in respect of the Planning Consultation Part 9 for the proposed new Garda Station for Leixlip is expected in a number of weeks. Commencement of the tendering process is dependent on the outcome of the Commissioner's decision.
164 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the directive he has issued to Donegal County Council with regard to Buncrana Marina for the construction of a break water wall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25299/06]
166 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will waiver the rent on the foreshore lease at Buncrana Harbour to allow for the construction of a break water wall for proper berthing of RNLI boat in all weather conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25218/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 164 and 166 together.
The Department is obliged, under the terms of Department of Finance sanction, to accept nothing less than the valuation determined by the Valuation Office in respect of structures such as this. A revised proposal, however, has been received from the Local Authority involving a scaling down of the project. The Department wrote to the Local Authority on 31st May 2006 making certain recommendations and seeking clarification on some aspects of the proposal. The Department is awaiting a response to this letter following which a new assessment of value will be requested from the Valuation Office.
165 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the outstanding issues in relation to persons (details supplied) in the whitefish decommissioning scheme; and when they will be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25080/06]
An Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) is the responsible authority for the administration of the scheme to permanently withdraw capacity from the whitefish and shellfish fleets which commenced in early October 2005. BIM has provided the following information in relation to the matters raised by the Deputy. It has confirmed that all premia have been paid in relation to the fishing boats the William Joseph and the Martina Eilis. In relation to the vessel the Vrijheid, the first payment has been paid by BIM and the second payment will issue on completion of the break up of the vessel. In relation to the vessel the Nicola Sharon, all the necessary conditions of the scheme have not been finalised. As soon as these conditions have been met the payment of the first instalment of grant aid can be made. There is no information on record with the reference, “the Burts”.
167 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is providing advice and assistance to pilgrims wishing to travel to the Holy Land; the contacts he has had with the authorities in Israel in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25097/06]
The Department of Foreign Affairs provides travel advice to Irish citizens wishing to visit the Holy Land through its website. The current advice can be found at www.dfa.ie/services/ traveladvice/01.asp. The number of Irish citizens travelling to Israel annually is estimated at less than 3,000. Only a limited proportion of these would be pilgrims. Most pilgrim sites in Israel and in Jerusalem can be accessed without problem for pilgrims. However, some sites in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, including Bethlehem, can be problematic and involve delays at military checkpoints and road-blocks. The Deputy can rest assured that Ireland’s Missions in the Holy Land will continue to monitor access issues for pilgrims, including with the relevant authorities, and, of course, will be helpful to any of our citizens who wish to make contact.
168 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if funding is available from his Department to assist a person (details supplied) in County Mayo to establish a sports facility to cater for local youth and sporting groups and tourists to the area. [25189/06]
170 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if funding is available from his Department to assist a person (details supplied) in County Mayo to establish a sports facility to cater for local youth and sporting groups and tourists to the area. [25188/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 168 and 170 together.
The national lottery-funded Sports Capital Programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The Programme is advertised on an annual basis.
Applications under the Programme are only accepted from:
•voluntary and community organisations, including sports clubs;
•national governing bodies of sport and third level education institutions; and
•in certain circumstances, schools, colleges and local authorities.
As it appears that the project in question is not being developed by one of the above categories funding would not be available from my Department.
169 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the timeframe for the proposed announcement regarding a successor to his Department’s access scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25096/06]
I expect to make an announcement in this regard very shortly.
171 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will provide details of the Office for Employment Rights Compliance; the number of staff to be assigned to this office; the location where this office will be headquartered; the manner in which the work of this office will be distinguished from that of the Labour Inspectorate; the formal procedures to be put in place for liaison between this office and the other relevant agencies under his Department’s control; the funding to be allocated to this office; if this office will be established by legislation or by regulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25175/06]
The Social Partnership Agreement, Towards 2016, sets out a number of commitments with regard to employment standards and compliance including a commitment to establish an Office of the Director of Employment Rights Compliance. The Office will be established through the enactment of primary legislation and will be led by a Director at senior management level together with administrative support staff and a complement of 90 Inspectors/Authorised Officers. While the Office will retain a presence in Dublin it is anticipated that there will be a regionalised structure with the headquarters located outside of the capital.
The legislation establishing the new Office will also address a variety of issues in the area of Employment Rights Compliance including a move towards greater accessibility for employees to redress via the Rights Commissioner Services. In that context it will be a matter for the new Director to develop a range of policies and procedures reflecting the changed landscape for employment rights enforcement. With a fivefold increase in the number of Inspectors/Authorised Officers since this Government introduced the National Minimum Wage in 2000, the implementation of a regionalised structure, and a specific budget being provided for the development and delivery of a structured and targeted programme of information provision, education and awareness of employment rights obligations and entitlements, the new Office will be exceptionally well equipped to very quickly and effectively establish its presence.
On the matter of formal procedures for liaison, again, informed by the detail of the new legislation that is to be enacted, this will be a matter for the new Director.
172 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the times that information has been shared in relation to potential tax or corporate law transgressions between the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement and the Revenue Commissioners; the nature of the information passed, for each instance; the agency which initiated the information exchange; if successful actions were taken on the basis of that information; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25176/06]
The Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement (ODCE) is required by law to keep confidential commercially sensitive information, which it obtains in the course of its work. However, the law also provides for the sharing of information between the ODCE and certain other regulatory authorities where the information is relevant to the remit of the regulatory authority. It also provides for the receipt by the ODCE of relevant information from certain regulatory authorities.
The ODCE has concluded formal arrangements on mutual co-operation and information sharing with a number of relevant authorities, including the Revenue Commissioners. I understand that these arrangements are working well and are proving mutually beneficial.
I am not in a position to comment on the detail of any exchanges of information between the ODCE and other regulatory authorities, including the Revenue Commissioners. Such matters are day-to-day matters for the ODCE and relevant authorities, for which I do not have responsibility. However, I would refer the Deputy to page 12 of the Annual Report 2005 of the Director of Corporate Enforcement, in which the Director reports on activity in this area under the heading, Cooperation between Regulatory Authorities.
173 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when a work permit will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; the reason there is a long delay in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25182/06]
The Work Permit Section of my Department received a work permit application in respect of the above named individual on 29 May 2006. The employer can expect to be contacted regarding this application within the next week.
174 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in view of increased rents in the private sector, there are plans to review the income limits for applicants to qualify for private rental supplement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25193/06]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive, provides for the payment of a rent supplement to assist eligible people who are unable to provide for their immediate accommodation needs from their own resources and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.
Rent supplements are subject to a limit on the amount of rent that an applicant for rent supplement may incur. Notwithstanding these limits, under existing arrangements the Health Service Executive may, in certain circumstances, exceed the rent levels as an exceptional measure, for example: where there are special housing needs related to exceptional circumstances for example, disabled persons in specially-adapted accommodation or homeless persons, where the tenant will be in a position to re-assume responsibility for his/her rent within a short period. Where the person concerned is entitled to an income disregard AND has sufficient income to meet his or her basic needs after paying rent, taking into account the appropriate rate of Rent Supplement that is otherwise payable in the case. This discretionary power is only used in special cases, but it ensures that individuals with particular needs can be accommodated within the scheme.
On 26 July 2005 regulations were introduced providing for new rent limits for the period 26 July 2005 to 31 December 2006. These new regulations provided for moderate increases in certain rent limits with no change in others. No rent limit was reduced. My Department is in regular contact with the community welfare staff of the Health Service Executive regarding the various elements of the scheme. In the course of these ongoing contacts, the prescribed upper limits on rent levels supported under the rent supplement scheme have not emerged as having a detrimental impact on the ability of eligible tenants generally to secure suitable rented accommodation to meet their needs.
My officials will again be reviewing the current levels of rent limits later this year in order in determine what limits should apply from January 2007 onwards. The review will take account of prevailing rent levels in the private rental sector generally, together with detailed input from the Health Service Executive on the market situation within each of its operational areas.
The review will also include consultation with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. In addition, it is expected a number of the voluntary agencies working in this area will also make detailed submissions. This process will ensure that the new rent limits reflect realistic market conditions throughout the country, and that they will continue to enable the different categories of eligible tenant households to secure and retain suitable rented accommodation to meet their respective needs.
175 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport if Ireland has signed the European Charter of Pedestrian Rights; the means he foresees for its implementation; the progress in drawing up guidelines for its implementation that can form parts of development plans; the budget he allocates annually by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25282/06]
The European Charter of Pedestrian Rights was adopted in 1988 by the European Parliament. I will communicate shortly with the Deputy in relation to Ireland's formal position with respect to the Charter.
The Charter, which appears to have been targeted at local authorities sets out a range of transport and local environmental issues in order to safeguard the physical and psychological well-being of the pedestrian. A number of local authorities in Ireland adopted a policy in their Development Plans to improve facilities for pedestrians and access facilities for people with special mobility needs in line with the aims of the Charter.
In the period since the adoption of the Charter, my Department has overseen the implementation of a number of measures which fulfil many of the aims and aspirations outlined in the Charter. Measures being pursued as part of the Road Safety Strategy relating to traffic calming and the introduction of a lower speed limit in residential areas are targeted at improving pedestrian safety.
The National Safety Council, the agency mandated with responsibility for road safety advertising and education, continues to run their "Text" and "Home" advertising campaign targeted at pedestrians.
Directive 2003/102/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 November 2003 was transposed into domestic legislation with effect from 28 May 2004. The Directive relates to the protection of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users. The Directive applies to cars and van-cars up to 2.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight and lays down the harmonised technical requirements for EU type approval of such motor vehicles with regard to pedestrian protection. The aim of the Directive is to reduce deaths and injuries to pedestrians and cyclists by motor vehicles through changes in the design of the fronts (i.e. bumper, bonnet and windscreen) of vehicles.
Directive 2005/66/EC of the European Parliament and the Council setting type approval standards in respect of frontal protection systems e.g. bull-bars, fitted to passenger cars and vans up to 3.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight, was adopted on 26 October 2005. Member States are required to adopt this Directive by 25 August 2006. The Directive in relation to passenger cars was transposed into Irish Law on 11 April 2006. It is intended to extend the provisions of the directive to new small vans before 25 August 2006.
It is a matter for local authorities to publish development plans for their areas. Policy matters relating to the making of development plans and the funding of local authorities is a matter for the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
176 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport when he will be issuing the guidelines that is, standard and type of belt, for the introduction of seat belts on private school buses; the reason for the delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25297/06]
I recently approved standards for buses fitted with safety belts for the purpose of the grant of Certificates of Roadworthiness (CRW) under the scheme of compulsory periodic vehicle testing administered by local authorities. Essentially, the standards are those set down in the EU type-approval directives relating to anchorages for safety belts (Directive 76/115/EEC as amended). Safety belts fitted to a bus must conform to EU or UN/ECE standards. The standards relate to buses generally and cover safety belts fitted to a vehicle at manufacture or as a retrofit. It is the intention, commencing in September 2008, to make it a requirement for the grant of a CRW for a bus fitted with safety belts that appropriate certification concerning the safety belt installation is provided to the authorised tester (i.e. test centre) that carries out the roadworthiness inspection.
My Department has published a FAQ document in relation to the standards, which may be accessed at www.transport.ie/roads/vehicle standards.
177 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport his intention for the use of the €2.3 million subvention, which the Railway Procurement Agency, the developers of the LUAS, say they do not need in view of the profit of €0.2 million in 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25074/06]
There was a provision of €2.583m in my Department's 2005 Estimates to cover operating deficits on the two Luas lines. €558,000 of this amount was drawn down by the RPA in respect of 2004. The surplus was surrendered to the Central Fund.
A provision of €361,000 was included in my Department's 2006 Estimates to cover a possible operating deficit on the two Luas lines. As none of this amount is now anticipated to be required in 2006 this provision will be available for re-allocation, as circumstances require.
178 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport if there have been developments regarding a diverted flight (details supplied) in terms of an explanation from the corresponding English authorities. [25227/06]
I refer the Deputy to my replies to Parliamentary Question Nos. 88 of 3 May 2006 and 358 of 23 May 2006 concerning the diversion into Prestwick Airport of an Irish registered aircraft because of a bomb scare. I wish to add that the National Civil Aviation Security Committee (NCASC) which is chaired by a senior official from my Department met on 31 May 2006 and discussed this issue. The Committee comprises representatives of Government Departments, State Airport Authorities, Regional Airports, the Garda Síochána, the Defence Forces, An Post, Customs and Excise, the Irish Aviation Authority and the Irish Airline Pilots Association. The Committee agreed that the Department and the Garda Síochána would review the policy guidelines for bomb threats to aircraft taking into account international best practice. This is a confidential review and will be completed as soon as possible.
179 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the way in which the courier industry and persons operating as couriers are regulated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25278/06]
The regulation of couriers does not fall within the remit of my Department. Matters in relation to the delivery of letters, parcels and small packages are the responsibility for the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.
180 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport the studies planned in regard to a possible link between metro north and west and the Dart line at Howth Junction, Kilbarrack or Baldoyle; and the way in which such studies are to be carried out. [25293/06]
While Transport 21 involves a large commitment of financial resources, those resources are also finite. It has therefore been necessary to prioritise the investments to be made over the ten year period.
The Dublin Transportation Office's A Platform for Change continues to provide a strategic framework for the development of the Greater Dublin area's transport system. In that context further feasibility studies and planning work will also be undertaken over the period of Transport 21 on other projects not included in Transport 21, but contained in A Platform for Change. These projects include a proposed Luas line from Whitehall to Howth Junction. However, funding to bring such projects to construction is not included in the ten-year envelope.
Following the launch of Transport 21 in November 2006 I wrote to the Railway Procurement Agency, directing it to proceed over the course of the programme, with feasibility studies on light rail projects which are part of the Dublin Transportation Office A Platform for Change. It is a matter for the RPA to decide on the method of carrying out and the timing of this and other studies, having regard to the priority of proceeding with the implementation of the projects identified in Transport 21.
181 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the Acts, or sections or other provisions of Acts, coming wholly or partly under the auspices of his Department, or for the commencement of which his Department is wholly or partly responsible, which are not in force and which require the future making of a commencement order; if, in each case, it is intended to make such an order; if so, when; the reason for the failure to make such an order to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25294/06]
Commencement orders in respect of Part 8 and section 130 of the Railway Safety Act 2005 have yet to be made. Part 8 of the Act provides for the establishment of a Railway Safety Advisory Council to advise both the Minister for Transport and the Railway Safety Commission on issues relating to railway safety. This part should be commenced before the end of the year. A commencement order in respect of Section 130 of the Act which provides for the increase in the level of the CIE guaranteed borrowing power from €317m to €600m is expected to be made in early July 2006.
Section 16 of the Road Transport Act 1999 provides for an on-the-spot fine system, in lieu of prosecution, for offences under the Road Transport Acts and under Regulations on drivers' hours and rest periods. That Act was commenced by means of a Statutory Instrument made in 1999. It was intended to commence section 16 by means of that Statutory Instrument but, following discussions with the Office of the Attorney General, advice was received that primary legislation would be required to bring this section into effect.
The Road Traffic Bill 2006, currently before the Dáil, contains provisions for the extension of the Fixed Charge Notices system to allow for the inclusion of the offences originally provided for under Section 16 of the Transport Act 1999. These provisions will replace the system provided for under Section 16 of the 1999 Act. I intend, therefore, to make provision in the Road Traffic Bill, by way of an amendment, for the repeal of Section 16 of the Road Transport Act 1999.
A commencement order to give effect to remaining provisions of Section 23 (repeals) of the Road Transport Act 1999 has yet to be made. The Road Transport Operating Licensing Division of my Department is planning to undertake a major project on consolidation of the Road Transport legislation and this will include a number of repeals of any outdated or defunct legislation.
There are no plans at present to commence Part 5 of the Road Traffic Act 2004. Its provisions were included in the Road Traffic Act to deal with the possibility that the current unlimited liability for third party motor insurance cover could prove to be unsustainable in the market. This situation has not arisen and therefore Part 5 has not been commenced. The provisions of section 93 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 relating to protection of bridges from excessive burdens, as amended by section 61 of the Road Traffic Act 1968, are being examined in the context of the review of the Traffic Signs Manual (1996) that is being undertaken at present. A decision regarding the commencement of this section will be taken when that review is completed.
Sections 11 and 12 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 relate to the operation and enforcement of the fixed charge system and, in the case of section 11, to the operation and enforcement of the penalty points system. These provisions, except in so far as already commenced up to 3 April 2006, will be progressively commenced as the operation and enforcement of the fixed charge system and or, penalty points system, is extended to the specified offences. Section 13 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 is a broad enabling provision. There are no proposals to commence this section at this time. It is proposed that consideration will be given later in 2006 to the transfer of functions required under section 16 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 to local authorities.
Commencement of section 35 requires further consultation with the Commission for Taxi Regulation, An Garda Síochána and the Courts Service, to ensure that the appropriate arrangements for implementation are in place. Commencement of the remaining subsections (1), (1A), (2), (5) and (6) of section 36, (as amended by section 36 of the Road Traffic Act 2004) requires further consultation with the Commission for Taxi Regulation, An Garda Síochána and the Courts Service, to ensure that the appropriate arrangements for implementation are in place. Section 44 (5) of the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 will not be commenced pending the full commencement of section 36 of that Act.
Provisions of the Aer Lingus Act 2004 which provide the legal framework to facilitate a third party investment in the company will be commenced as appropriate in the lead in to an investment transaction and the provisions which facilitate ESOT Board representation will commenced as required.
The establishment of an Adventure Activities Standards Authority under the Adventure Activities Standards Authority Act 2001 is being reviewed in the light of the decision that the safety services provided by my Department, in particular the Irish Coast Guard and Maritime Safety Directorate, be brought together in a single agency responsible for all elements of marine safety and emergency response services, to ensure that there is no duplication of responsibilities and that the most effective and efficient structures are put in place.
The Sea Pollution (Hazardous Substances) (Compensation) Act 2005 gives effect in Irish law to the International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in connection with the Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea 1996. The Convention has not yet entered into force internationally as not sufficient States are in a position to become Parties thereto. It is intended that the commencement date for the Act should, if possible, coincide with international entry into force which is not yet known.
Section 28 of the Act amends the Merchant Shipping (Liability of Shipowners and Others) Act 1996 to give effect to the Protocol of 1996 to amend the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims 1976. Consideration is being given to commence this provision separately in advance of the remaining sections of the Act.
A commencement order is currently being prepared for the commencement of sections 86 and 87 of the Harbours Act 1996. Commencement of these sections of the Act were not required to date but an order is now being prepared in light of Government policy regarding the transfer of regional harbours to local control.
182 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport the measures which will be introduced to carry out driver blood sample testing in regard to the widespread use of cocaine and other drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25296/06]
It is illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the vehicle. Section 49 of the Road Traffic Act 1961, as inserted by Section 10 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 prohibits the driving of a mechanically propelled vehicle by a person while under the influence of an intoxicant. An intoxicant includes alcohol and drugs, and any combination of drugs and alcohol.
The Medical Bureau of Road Safety continues to analyse blood and urine specimens received from the Garda Síochána under the Road Traffic Acts for the presence of a drug or drugs where the level of alcohol determined is under the legal limit, or when a specific request for drug analysis has been received from the Gardaí when the alcohol result is above the legal limit. Prosecution of offences relating to driving while under the influence of drugs is a matter for An Garda Síochána.
183 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 346 of 20 June 2006, the 27 public bodies with which he has agreed a language scheme and the 70 bodies which he has asked to prepare a scheme; if he is satisfied that it will be feasible for these bodies to implement the Act as outlined at section 9(3) of the Official Languages Act 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25219/06]
A full list of the 27 public bodies with whom I have agreed language schemes to date, as well as a list of the 70 public bodies whom I have requested to prepare draft schemes, is available on the website of An Coimisinéir Teanga, www.coimisineir.ie.
Section 9(3) of the Official Languages Act 2003 is one of the directly applicable provision of the Act which apply to all public bodies covered by the Act. As I have outlined on a number of occasions in this House, I am satisfied that public bodies will be able to fulfil their obligations under Act, including those set out in section 9(3), and I am confident that they will accept this challenge with a positive attitude and in the proper spirit. As I have stated from the beginning, while it will not be possible to achieve everything overnight, my objective is that improvements in the range and quality of services available through Irish will be achieved over time, subject to demand.
184 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the drug treatment and rehabilitation programmes that are currently available for teenagers under the age of 18; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25274/06]
185 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of illegal drug abusers availing of the various treatments funded by the Health Service Executive; if he will list same; his plans to expand the range of treatment options for recovering drug misusers, in particular counselling and therapeutic services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25275/06]
186 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of State funded drug treatment and rehabilitation programmes which are in accordance with the quality standards of the Health Service Executive as per Action 50 of the national drugs strategy; the number that have failed; the action which is being taken to ensure 100% compliance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25276/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 184 to 186, inclusive, together.
The issues raised by the Deputy are matters for my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney.
187 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when CLÁR funding will be provided to Mayo County Council in order that a group water scheme (details supplied) can be completed. [25328/06]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that on 9 June 2006, I announced the approval for the allocation of CLÁR top-up funding of €603,504 for the Shraheens (Aughagower) Group Water Scheme in County Mayo. This funding will enable work amounting to €1,760,208 to be carried out, with the balance being paid by the Department of Environment, Heritage & Local Government and by private contributions from the Group members.
A total of 72 households will benefit from the Scheme with savings of €8,382 per household.
When Mayo County Council submit a claim for funding, supported by a certificate of completion to this Department, the CLÁR top-up funding will be paid.
188 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the criteria which has to be met to qualify for a farm grant (details supplied) for new farmers starting up. [25057/06]
The current Installation Aid Scheme was established under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 and provides a once-off grant of €9,523 to farmers under the age of 35 who have been set up in farming for the first time on or after 1 January 2000.
In order to apply for Installation Aid a farmer must, inter alia, be set up on a holding of at least 5 hectares of eligible land and be between his/her 18th and 35th birthday on the date of set up.
An application can be made to my Department's Office in Johnstown Castle, Wexford.
189 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding payment of the EU single farm payment in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork following the submission of documentation recently. [25058/06]
Following direct contact between an official of my Department and the person named, medical evidence is awaited from the person named, following receipt of which an immediate decision will be made regarding the 2005 Single Payment Scheme application of the person named.
190 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason forestry premia in respect of 2003, 2004 and 2005 has not been awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25174/06]
The delay in payment in this case was related to the change of ownership of the plantation. In addition there was a problem relating to the actual area claimed. These issues have now been resolved and I expect payment to be made within the next three weeks.
191 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has plans to establish a national register for joint guardianship agreements; if this will require legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25183/06]
192 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has plans to allow grandparents become guardians of their grandchildren; if this will require legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25184/06]
193 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has plans to introduce legislation regarding the guardianship of children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25185/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 191 to 193, inclusive, together.
The Guardianship of Infants (Statutory Declaration) Regulations 1998 (S.I. No. 5 of 1998) prescribe the form of the joint statutory declaration to be made by the mother and father of a non-marital child who wish the father of the child to become a guardian of the child jointly with the mother in accordance with section 2(4) (inserted by the Children Act 1997) of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964. The prescribed form indicates that the document is important and should be kept in a safe place. The next and obvious step of entry of the father's name on the register of birth of the child that is the subject of the guardianship agreement is a matter for the parents themselves to arrange. I have no plans to establish a national register for joint guardianship agreements.
Under the law as it stands, grandparents may be the testamentary guardians of their grandchild, if appointed as guardians by deed or will. Grandparents may also, under certain conditions, make application to court to obtain access to their grandchild under section 11B of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 as inserted by section 9 of the Children Act 1997. There are no proposals for change in this area.
194 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will assist persons (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if he will work with the Department of Foreign Affairs on this case. [25071/06]
The individuals concerned are advised to submit their visa applications for consideration to their nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate. Comprehensive information on making a visa application is available on my Department's website at www.justice.ie.
195 Ms F. O’Malley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Garda clearance process; and the reason for the delays and discommoding this causes. [25072/06]
I assume the Deputy's Question relates to the Garda vetting service provided in respect of prospective employees recruited to work with children and vulnerable adults.
As a means of promoting the safety and security of these vulnerable client groups, criminal history vetting is conducted by the Garda Central Vetting Unit (GCVU) on behalf of, inter alia, registered organisations which recruit personnel to work in a substantial, unsupervised capacity with children and vulnerable adults.
Vetting applications are submitted in writing to the GCVU by the human resource department of the registered employer/agency. In response, following an interrogation of its criminal history information against the personal details supplied, the GCVU issues a reply to the requesting organisation disclosing, as appropriate, criminal conviction and related information in respect of the subject of the vetting. Recruitment and selection decisions remain at all times with the recruiting organisation.
The average turnaround time for processing valid vetting requests received by the GCVU is appropriately four weeks. I do not consider that this average turnaround time constitutes a delay. Moreover, recruiting organisations are aware of the processing timeframe and are advised to factor it into their recruitment and selection processes.
196 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who are on their fifth work permit; if they can apply for residency to stay here; the action they need to take; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25073/06]
The position in relation to granting long term residency is as follows: Persons who have been legally resident in the State for over five years (ie: 60 months) on the basis of work permit/work authorisation/work visa conditions may apply to the Immigration Division of my Department for a five year residency extension. In that context they may also apply to be exempt from employment permit requirements.
The dependants of the aforementioned, who have been legally resident in the State for over five years (ie: 60 months) may also apply for long term residency. This particular long term permission does not exempt the person from employment permit requirements.
The Immigration Division of my Department is currently giving priority to applications for a long term residency extension in respect of persons who fulfil the legal residency criteria and whose permission to remain expires in the coming weeks.
In considering such applications the following documents are required: a clear and legible copy of passport (all pages) — in the event that the passport has been renewed since commencing employment a copy of the previous passport must be provided; a copy of the Certificate of Registration; copies of work permits/working visa endorsements/work authorisation endorsements.
197 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the existing speed cameras in use are analogue or digital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25186/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the mobile speed cameras operated by An Garda Síochána use analogue video (GATSO vans) and the fixed speed cameras use wet film. The Deputy will be aware that the Road Traffic Bill before the Oireachtas at present will allow for the outsourcing of the operations and provisions of speed cameras.
198 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will grant residency to a person (details supplied) in County Carlow or allow the person permission to leave the State temporarily. [25195/06]
The person in question arrived in the State on 6 September 2001 on a holiday visa. This visa was subsequently extended on two occasions for three months duration each time. She applied for asylum on 25 March 2002 which was refused on 10 October 2002. An appeal of this decision was made to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal and this was refused on 31 March 2003. A notification of proposal to deport from the State under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, together with the refusal to grant a declaration of refugee status, issued on 29 April 2003.
Representations were received in relation to the proposal to deport and while they were being considered an application for permission to remain in the State based on marriage to an Irish national was received from the person concerned in June 2006. Applications of this type, in fairness to all other such applicants, are dealt with in strict chronological order and currently take approximately fourteen months to process. It should be noted that marriage to an Irish national does not confer an automatic right of residence in the State.
The Deputy should note that a person who is awaiting a decision on a residency application based on marriage to an Irish national is free to leave the State at any time. A visa required national must be in possession of a valid Irish visa to allow the person concerned travel to the State. As the person in question is a visa required national, she would require a re-entry visa to return to the State. It is not the normal practice of my Department to assist persons who do not have residency in the State with a re-entry visa prior to travelling except in certain emergency circumstances. Applications of this emergency nature are considered on a case by case basis by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of my Department and any such request for a re entry visa should be made in writing to them.
199 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied that the arrangements for payment of Garda gaeltacht allowance as approved in 1934 are still relevant (details supplied); his views on whether in the context of these allowances being paid in Galway west, Kerry and Donegal that they should also apply in districts in County Cork and Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25222/06]
201 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of recipients of Garda gaeltacht allowance in each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25224/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 199 and 201 together. An allowance amounting to 7.5% of gross pay is payable to members of An Garda Síochána serving in defined Gaeltacht areas who perform their duties through the medium of Irish and whose knowledge of the language is certified as adequate for that purpose.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that Garda Districts in the Division of Galway West were approved by the Government for payment of the Gaeltacht allowance in 1934. Garda Districts in the Divisions of Donegal and Kerry were approved by the Government for payment of the Gaeltacht allowance in 1935. No other Districts have been approved for payment of the allowance since that date.
I have been further informed that when the Gaeltacht allowance was introduced in 1934, it was decided that it would only be paid in areas where Irish was the general medium of speech and where all the members of the force were proficient in Irish and were required to perform their duties in Irish. The areas where these allowances were to be paid were determined on the basis of Garda Districts. These are Garda administrative areas, each comprising of a number of Garda Stations, under the supervision of a Superintendent. It was not regarded as practicable to arrange for members of the force in any particular Station to conduct all their duties in Irish if Irish was not also in use at the District Headquarters.
The arrangements for the payment of Gaeltacht allowances are among the issues being examined at present by an Interdepartmental Group on the use and promotion of the Irish language in An Garda Síochána, particularly taking into account the needs of Gaeltacht areas and the requirements of the Official Languages Act 2003. This Group consists of senior representatives of An Garda Síochána, my Department and the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. I expect to receive the report of the Interdepartmental Group shortly, and I will carefully examine whatever recommendations are made. I have been further advised by the Garda authorities that the number of personnel in receipt of the Gaeltacht allowance on the final pay run for each year 1997 to 2005 (inclusive), and as at 29 June 2006, was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Year |
|
|
1997 |
366 |
|
1998 |
361 |
|
1999 |
360 |
|
2000 |
353 |
|
2001 |
352 |
|
2002 |
336 |
|
2003 |
336 |
|
2004 |
332 |
|
2005 |
331 |
|
2006 |
329 |
200 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the numbers currently employed in the PULSE system located at Davitt House, Castlebar; the breakdown of grade and skill level; the location from which each employee was transferred; the number to be employed; the areas from where calls are received and logged presently; and if he will make a statement on the working of the system to date. [25223/06]
There are currently 129 staff employed in the Garda Information Service Centre (GISC) in Castlebar, comprising 1 Principal Officer, 3 Assistant Principals, 11 Higher Executive Officers, 15 Executive Officers, 10 Staff Officers and 89 Clerical Officers. Some 55 employees of the GISC transferred from the Department of Agriculture and Food and were already based in Castlebar, while 30 others were recruited directly through the Public Appointments Service. The remainder of the GISC staff transferred from other Government Departments in locations around the country, including Dublin, Galway and Sligo. It is expected that the GISC will employ over 160 staff when it is fully operational this September.
The facility whereby members of An Garda Síochána can call the GISC and have crime data logged on PULSE is currently operational in the Southern Region (Cork and Kerry), the South-Eastern Region (Tipperary, Waterford, Kilkenny, Wexford and Wicklow), and the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) Eastern Division. The system is being rolled-out to other Divisions in the DMR and to the Traffic Corps (DMR) this week, and will be fully operational nationwide in September. I am pleased to say that the operation of the GISC has proved very successful to date. It is already making a major contribution to freeing-up Garda resources for front-line policing duties.
202 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement on the receipt of tenders on 21 June 2006 for the supply of 11,000 anti stab ballistic vests; and when he expects an order to be placed for same. [25225/06]
An RFT for the supply of an additional 11,000 Anti Stab Ballistics Vests (and without prejudice or commitment to purchase a further quantity of no more than 4,000 over the duration of the contract) was published in the EU Journal and the Government's tendering website on 8th May, 2006 with a closing date for receipt of tenders of 21st June, 2006. A total of eleven companies submitted tenders which are currently being evaluated. It is anticipated that the order for the supply of these vests will be placed in early August 2006.
These lightweight and flexible vests will be worn generally as an outer garment but can be concealed under a jacket/coat and will be navy blue in colour. They will have to conform to the HOSDB HG1A/KR1 protection standards for ballistic and anti-stab resistance with an option to upgrade these vests to HG2/KR2 standard. The estimated value of the contract is approximately €3m.
In addition to the above an RFT for the supply and delivery of 1,500 Ballistic Vests with anti-stab properties and without prejudice or commitment to purchase a further quantity of no more than 600 over the duration of the contract, was published in the EU Journal and the Government's tendering website on 6th April, 2006 with a closing date for receipt of tenders of 24th May, 2006. A total of 9 companies submitted valid tenders. These tender proposals are currently being evaluated by An Garda Síochána. The vests will have to conform to the HOSDB HG1/KR1+SP1 protection standards for ballistic and anti-stab resistance. It is anticipated that the order for the supply of these vests will be placed shortly. The estimated value of this contract is approximately €750,000.
203 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí in Waterford Garda Station currently engaged in duties that could be undertaken by civilians. [25231/06]
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,641 (all ranks) on Thursday 8 June with the attestation of 273 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June 1997 and represents an increase of 1,939 (or 18.1%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period.
I have been further informed that there are currently four (4) Gardaí employed in administrative posts at Waterford Garda Station. Garda management state that the figure of 4 Gardaí is based on those personnel who are in receipt of either designated post or ex-gratia allowances and as such are employed on administrative duties. Of these 4 Gardaí, two members are in receipt of a designated post allowance and two members are in receipt of an ex-gratia allowance. The latter two members have opted for outdoor duty in the event that civilian personnel become available to fulfil the duties carried out by them.
While progress in relation to the appointment of additional Clerical Officers to Garda Stations has been stalled for some time now owing to the equal pay case taken by the Civil, Public and Services Union (CPSU), I am pleased to say that other elements of the Civilianisation Programme are continuing apace and are contributing to the freeing-up of Gardaí for front-line policing. I would refer the Deputy in particular, to the establishment of the Garda Information Service Centre (GISC) in Castlebar. Whereas previously Gardaí had to return to their Stations following a crime event to enter data on PULSE, they now make a call to GISC, where civilian colleagues input the data for them, allowing officers to remain "on the beat". This new system, which has already been rolled out in the South-East Region, including Waterford, is yielding enormous benefits for An Garda Síochána.
It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.
I should add that the current recruitment drive to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members, 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 this year. The first group of newly attested Gardaí under this accelerated recruitment programme came on stream in March and the second such group did so on the 8th of June. Further tranches of approximately 275 newly attested Gardaí will follow every 90 days thereafter until the programme is complete. 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 Waterford Garda Station will be given the fullest consideration.
204 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow who is here with their spouse who has a work permit until 27 April 2007. [25271/06]
I understand the Immigration Division of my Department has requested a report in the matter from the Garda National Immigration Bureau. On receipt of this report the immigration status of the person concerned will be further considered.
205 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí attached to Coolock Garda station; the population and the area covered by the station; and the number of such Gardaí ordinarily on duty between 6 pm and midnight on Sundays. [25287/06]
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,641 (all ranks) on Thursday 8 June with the attestation of 273 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June 1997 and represents an increase of 1,939 (or 18.1%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of Coolock Garda Station as at 27 June, 2006 was 89 (all ranks). Garda special units designed to fight serious crime are also available to Garda management at Coolock Garda Station. The Garda Síochána employs a range of techniques in the fight against serious crime. The national bureau of criminal investigation is the Garda specialist unit tasked with the role of tackling organised crime and it carries out this role by conducting intelligence driven operations in close co-operation with other specialist units, specifically, the national criminal intelligence unit, the Garda national drugs unit, the Garda bureau of fraud investigation and the Criminal Assets Bureau. The population figure for the Coolock sub-district, as sourced from the CSO Census of Population of 2002 (the latest date for which such figures are currently available), was 47,918.
Garda management state that for security and operational reasons it is not Garda policy to disclose the number of personnel on duty in any given area at any specific time.
It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.
I should add that the current recruitment drive to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members, 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 this year. The first group of newly attested Gardaí under this accelerated recruitment programme came on stream in March and the second such group did so on the 8th of June. Further tranches of approximately 275 newly attested Gardaí will follow every 90 days thereafter until the programme is complete. 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 Coolock Garda Station will be given the fullest consideration.
206 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide details of the investigation by a Garda superintendent from outside the relevant Garda district into the death of a person (details supplied) including issues that may have been raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25288/06]
A Detective Superintendent from outside the relevant Garda Division was appointed immediately after the incident to carry out a detailed investigation into all the circumstances surrounding the person in question's arrest, detention and removal to hospital. The Garda authorities submitted the relevant file to the Director of Public Prosecutions on the matter and furnished a copy to me also. The Director issued instructions that no prosecution should ensue.
It is necessary for the proper functioning of the Garda Siochana that the contents of a criminal investigation file be kept confidential — not least on the basis that persons who have assisted have done so on the express or implied understanding that information which they have given will be used solely for the purposes of that investigation and no other purpose. In this instance the statements have been supplied to the Coroner for the purposes of an Inquest into the death which is ongoing at present.
I have already offered financial assistance to the person's family to facilitate their legal representation at the Inquest. When the inquest has been completed and a verdict returned I will consider the matter further.
207 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the measures he has or intends to put in place to prevent the death of a person in Garda custody; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25290/06]
The treatment of persons in custody in Garda stations is governed by the Criminal Justice Act 1984 (Treatment of Persons in Custody in Garda Síochána Stations) Regulations 1987. The objective of the Regulations is to ensure that members of the Garda Síochána act with due respect for the personal rights of persons in custody and their dignity as human persons. The Regulations include provision for the assignment of a member of the Garda Síochána in each Garda station to be responsible for ensuring that the treatment of persons in custody is in accordance with the Regulations.
The responsibilities conferred by the Regulations on members include provisions which are designed to ensure the welfare of persons in custody who are drunk or under the influence of drugs (regulation 19), to protect persons from ill treatment (regulation 20) and to ensure that persons receive medical treatment from a doctor where necessary (regulation 21). Failure to comply with the Regulations on the part of a member of the Garda Síochána constitutes a breach of discipline.
On a prospective note, I will shortly publish new draft disciplinary regulations which will be less complex than those currently in place and will be swift and fair with a simple appeal process. Furthermore, the Ombudsman Commission will provide for a more robust and effective independent system for the investigation of cases involving death or serious harm. Under the Garda Siochana Act 2005 the Garda Commissioner is obliged to refer to the Ombudsman Commission any matter that appears to him to indicate that the conduct of a member of the Garda Siochana may have resulted in the death of, or serious harm to, a person. Even in the absence of a referral, the Ombudsman Commission itself is obliged, where it is of the view that such conduct may have occurred, to ensure an investigation.
As the Deputy will be aware, the members of the Garda Ombudsman Commission have been appointed and are expected to commence operations early in 2007.
208 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of attempted suicides and deliberate self-harm in prison custody which were attributed to suicide for each of the years 2000 to 2004. [25317/06]
The statistical information sought by the Deputy is as follows:
|
Year |
Reported Self-Injury by Prisoners |
|
2000 |
73 |
|
2001 |
73 |
|
2002* |
144 |
|
2003* |
180 |
|
2004* |
170 |
* Source — National Suicide Research Foundation.
The National Suicide Research Foundation (NSRF) established the National Parasuicide Registry in 2000 as a national monitoring system for the occurrence of parasuicide. The National Suicide Research Foundation define parasuicide as any non-fatal act which an individual deliberately undertakes knowing or believing that it may cause them physical harm or even death. It includes acts involving varying levels of suicidal intent including definite attempts at suicide and acts where the individual had no intention of dying.
The Irish Prison Service agreed with the Foundation in 2001 that the Registry should include prisons and places of detention in its statistics and the Foundation undertook to compile the statistics from records kept within each prison or place of detention. The Foundation has included a chapter on prisons and places of detention in their annual report for 2002, 2003 and 2004. The NSRF recorded 144 episodes of parasuicide in Prisons and Places of Detention in 2002. Based on the criteria applied by the NSRF the number of reported incidents for 2003 and 2004 was 180 (involving 100 individuals) and 170 (involving 121 individuals) respectively.
209 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of homicides registered in 2005 by gender. [25318/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is available in the 2005 Annual Report of An Garda Síochána, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas library.
210 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of indictable crimes committed in 2005. [25319/06]
The figure for the number of headline offences in 2005 is available in the annual report of the Garda Síochána, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas library.
211 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of deaths in prison custody which were attributed to suicide for each of the years 2000 to 2004. [25320/06]
All deaths in prison custody are the subject of an internal investigation, a Garda investigation and an inquiry by a Coroner. The cause of death is determined on foot of the Coroner's inquiry or by the jury on the basis of the information presented to the Coroner's court, if a plenary inquest is held. The number of deaths in prison custody which are attributed to suicide are as follows:
|
Year |
|
|
2000 |
3 |
|
2001 |
1 |
|
2002 |
4 |
|
2003 |
2 |
|
2004 |
3* |
*An Inquest stands open and adjourned in relation to one death in 2004. The apparent cause of death in this case would indicate that the death is likely to be attributed to suicide.
212 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if permission to go to tender will be given for a project involving three schools (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25059/06]
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the extension and refurbishment project for the schools in question, was listed to proceed to tender and construction as part of the 2005 School Building and Modernisation Programme. The Department's Technical Unit is currently examining revised Stage 3 documentation submitted by the school and will be in contact with the school and their Design Team as soon as the examination is completed.
213 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of classrooms which will be included in a new school (details supplied) in County Cork; and the other facilities which will be provided. [25060/06]
The long-term accommodation needs of the school referred to by the Deputy has been determined as 12 mainstream classrooms plus appropriate ancillary accommodation. The building project required to deliver the school accommodation is being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.
214 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason special education services are being denied to Youthreach; the plans she has to introduce such services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25100/06]
215 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if the non-provision of special education services to Youthreach is in breach of Section 7.1 of the Education Act 1998; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25101/06]
216 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the National Council for Special Education is denying special needs services to Youthreach until the full implementation of the Education for Persons with Special Needs Act 2004. [25102/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 214 to 216, inclusive, together.
Youthreach provides two years' integrated education, training and work experience to young people aged 15-20 years who are at least six months in the labour market and who have left school early without any qualifications or vocational training. The programme provides a strong emphasis on personal development, on the core skills of literacy/numeracy, communications and IT.
It is my Department's policy to seek to encourage and facilitate the participation of people with disabilities on programmes offered in the Further Education Sector. Generally, issues of access for individuals to Further Education Programmes are addressed at local level. Where a student with special needs is admitted to a Youthreach centre, educational supports, equipment and training, as appropriate, are provided in the centre in accordance with the learning aims and objectives of the programme.
Currently my Department has provided €500,000 for a national programme for staff training. This training will allow staff, as a team, to identify and respond to the special needs of their learners on an individual basis. The focus of this training is on individual assessment, programme planning, student mentoring and interagency work. This interagency work involves collaboration between centres, other statutory agencies and community based services, eg. The Health Service Executive, Probation Service, Addiction Services etc.
In 2005 special grants of €1.5 million were provided by my Department to Vocational Education Committees to upgrade services through the purchase of equipment and materials, or refurbishment or minor structural works or materials to enhance the provision for students with disabilities. With effect from 1 January 2005 the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) took over key functions from my Department in relation to special educational provision. The NCSE was formally established as an independent statutory body on 1 October 2005 and acts under the broad policy direction of my Department. The Council does not at present provide a service to students with special needs in Youthreach centres but it is expected that such a service will be available when all the provisions of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act, 2004, are fully implemented.
The special needs of learners attending Youthreach centres are under active consideration at present.
217 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding provided to Youthreach on a yearly basis over the term of this Government to date; the number of people employed on a yearly basis; the number of people trained on a yearly basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25103/06]
Youthreach provides two years integrated education, training and work experience to young people aged 15-20 years who are at least six months in the labour market and who have left school early without any qualifications or vocational training. The programme provides a strong emphasis on personal development, on the core skills of literacy/numeracy, communications and IT. The information on staffing in Youthreach centres is not maintained centrally in my Department as staffing of Youthreach centres is a matter for Vocational Education Committees.
Funding for Youthreach and the approved number of trainee places on the programme in each of the last four years is as follows:
|
Year |
Expenditure Approved |
Trainee Places |
|
€ |
||
|
2002 |
36,939,315 |
3,258 |
|
2003 |
38,024,023 |
3,258 |
|
2004 |
44,645,204 |
3,258 |
|
2005 |
45,334,433 |
3,282 |
218 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the accommodation problems being experienced by students and teachers at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 22; the action her Department will take to overcome the obstacles that exist in relation to discussions between landowners and the Office of Public Works over the past five years; the actions her Department will take to remedy the situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25104/06]
My Department has acknowledged the need for a permanent solution to meet the long-term accommodation needs of the school referred to by the Deputy. The school is currently occupying rented accommodation which is being grant aided at the rate of 95% by my Department.
Officials are actively looking at proposals regarding an alternative site for the school. However, due to commercial sensitivities surrounding site acquisitions, the Deputy will appreciate that I am unable to comment on specific site purchase issues.
219 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of places available at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 20 for September 2006; if there is spare capacity at this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25105/06]
In September 2005, 397 students were enrolled at the school referred to by the Deputy. This figure represents an overall decrease of 20% over the last five years. This would indicate that there is spare capacity at this school. In addition, my Department is not in receipt of a request for additional accommodation from the school authority.
220 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of places available at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare for September 2006; if there is spare capacity at this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25106/06]
In September 2005, 587 students were enrolled at the school referred to by the Deputy. This figure represents an overall decrease of 14% over the last five years. This would indicate that there is spare capacity at the school. In addition, my Department is not in receipt of a request for additional accommodation from the school authority.
221 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of places available at a school (details supplied) in County Dublin for September 2006; if there is spare capacity at this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25107/06]
In September 2005, 514 students were enrolled at the school referred to by the Deputy. This figure represents an overall decrease of 4% over the last five years. My Department recently completed an extension at the school to cater for a long-term projected enrolment of 725 pupils. I am satisfied that this development together with spare capacity in other schools in the general area will be sufficient to meet the needs presenting for the foreseeable future.
222 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of places available at a school (details supplied) in County Dublin for September 2006; if there is spare capacity at this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25108/06]
In September 2005, 805 students were enrolled at the school referred to by the Deputy. Enrolments have been stable at this school for the last five years. A refurbishment project for the school is in architectural planning. Progress on the project is being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme from 2006 onwards.
223 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of places available at a school (details supplied) in County Dublin for September 2006; if there is spare capacity at this school. [25109/06]
In September 2005, the enrolment at the school referred to by the Deputy was 235 pupils. However, my Department recently completed a new school building which will cater for a long term projected enrolment of 600 pupils. Therefore, I am satisfied that there is considerable spare capacity at this school which I expect to be used as output increases from developing feeder schools.
224 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of places available at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 22 for September 2006; if there is spare capacity at this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25110/06]
In September 2005, 355 students were enrolled at the school referred to by the Deputy. This figure represents an overall decrease of 15% over the last five years. This would indicate that there is spare capacity at this school. In addition, my Department is not in receipt of a request for additional accommodation from the school authority.
225 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of places available at a school (details supplied) in County Dublin for September 2006; if there is spare capacity at this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25111/06]
In September 2005, 822 students were enrolled at the school referred to by the Deputy. Enrolments have been stable at this school for the last five years. An application from the school for specialist rooms and some increased capacity is awaited. In the meantime, I am satisfied that, with the extent of the availability of places in other schools in the area, there is sufficient accommodation overall to meet the current need presenting.
226 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on the future of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 13; if she will ensure plans for the closure of this community school are reversed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25112/06]
A decision was taken by the Trustees of the school to which the Deputy refers that it will close in June 2007. This decision was taken because, in line with demographic changes in the area, the school has experienced a steady decline in enrolments in recent years. Current enrolments in feeder primary schools indicate that this decline will continue. In fact, a general decline in enrolments in the area where the school is located has resulted in spare capacity of an estimated 2,300 places at post primary level. Coupled with the decline in enrolments, my Department was also concerned about the ability of the school in question to offer a broad and balanced curriculum given the relatively small number of pupils enrolled. In all of the circumstances, my Department concurred with the Trustees decision to close the school and there are no plans to reverse this decision.
When it closes, ownership of the school property, which is currently vested in the trustees, will revert to my Department. In the period leading up to the closure, my Department will consider all available options with regard to its future use.
227 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if a school (details supplied) in County Mayo will be included in Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools on consideration of their review application; if the review has been carried out on this school; if so, the way in which it was carried out and by whom; the outcome of the review for this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25190/06]
DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), the action plan for educational inclusion, provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated School Support Programme (SSP). The School Support Programme will bring together, and build upon, a number of existing interventions in schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage.
The process of identifying primary and second-level schools for participation in the SSP was managed by the Educational Research Centre (ERC) on behalf of my Department and supported by quality assurance work co-ordinated through the Department's regional offices and the Inspectorate. As a result of the identification process, 840 schools were invited to participate in the SSP. These comprised 640 primary schools (320 urban/town schools and 320 rural schools) and 200 second-level schools. I am delighted to say that 833 of the schools invited to join the new programme accepted the invitation.
Schools that did not qualify for the new programme will keep the extra resources they are getting under existing schemes for the 2006/07 school year and after that they will continue to get support in line with the level of disadvantage among their pupils.
A review mechanism has been put in place to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in the School Support Programme but regard themselves as having a level of disadvantage which is of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. The review process will operate under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification processes and procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review. The school referred to by the Deputy has submitted a review application.
The review process is currently underway and it is intended that the review process will be completed by the end of the current school year.
228 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made in providing a permanent school for a school (details supplied) which is in temporary premises since 1994; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25221/06]
The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works, which purchases sites for new schools, was requested by my Department to explore the possibility of acquiring a site for the school to which the Deputy refers. Following an advertisement placed by the OPW seeking possible site proposals, a number of responses were received. Six sites were visited and their technical suitability as a location for the school was considered. The preferred location for the new school is a 3 acre site on the existing Tipperary Rural and Business Institute (TRBDI) site. The site is in the ownership of TRBDI. However, the TRBDI has proposed to my Department that its campus in Clonmel be relocated to a large-scale technology park. Approval to this proposal is conditional on, inter alia, the Institute assisting my Department in the matter of the provision of a site for the school.
Expressions of Interest have been sought by TRBDI from private sector property developers to determine what exactly could be provided at the technology park in exchange for the Institute's current property in Clonmel. The Expressions of Interest sought required the incorporation of a suitable site for the school in question on the current campus or on an alternative site approved by my Department and the Office of Public Works. The Expressions of Interest received by TRBDI are currently being evaluated.
I want to assure the Deputy that the permanent accommodation needs of this school are being addressed and the provision of a permanent building for the school will be progressed in the context of the School Buildings and Modernisation Programme when a suitable site has been acquired.
229 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the situation in a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; her views on whether parents are entitled to send their children to the school in their catchment area; and if so, if she will release the funding required for two prefab classrooms for the start of the new school year in September 2006. [25281/06]
The school to which the Deputy refers made an application to my Department for additional accommodation for September 2006. However, this application was refused on the basis that my Department is satisfied that there is considerable spare capacity in neighbouring schools. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking school places. While, this may result in pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice, this approach ensures that the use of existing accommodation is maximised and that the development and support of one school over others does not occur.
230 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when school placement will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25314/06]
Enrolment decisions are the responsibility of the Board of Management of each individual school. My Department has no role in relation to processing applications for enrolment by schools. Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, provides parents with an appeal process where a Board of Management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the Board refuses enrolment to a student. Where a school refuses to enrol a pupil, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision to the Secretary General of my Department. Where an appeal under Section 29 is upheld, the Secretary General of my Department may direct a school to enrol a pupil. The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The NEWB can be contacted at National Educational Welfare Board, National Headquarters, 16-22 Green Street, Dublin 7 or by telephone at 01-8738700.
231 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Defence the reason sufficient investment has not been made to have accommodation at the military barracks, Castlebar brought up to standard for the conduct of training camps; if he intends to allocate moneys in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25220/06]
Castlebar Military Barracks is primarily a Reserve Defence Force facility that provides training facilities, office accommodation and storage facilities for Permanent Defence Force Cadre and Unit personnel of Units stationed in the Barracks. The estimated cost of the refurbishment works necessary to effect compliance with building, health and safety, and fire regulations in order to provide permanent accommodation and catering facilities for RDF summer camps raises significant value for money considerations. Therefore, there are no plans at present to carryout any major building or refurbishment works on the barracks. Minor works will continue to be carried out, as necessary, to facilitate personnel currently stationed in the Barracks. The military authorities have assured me that the Western Brigade has sufficient accommodation and training facilities to cater for RDF training camps in 2006.
232 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence the person who was in command of SFOR in Camp Butmir in January 2002. [25279/06]
233 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence the protocol governing the responsibilities of soldiers participating in international missions such as SFOR who become aware of abuses by soldiers of their own or another nationality during their service on the mission including the chain of command to whom it should be reported and detailing who would be responsible for investigating the abuse. [25280/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 232 and 233 together.
Between mid-1997 and January 2003, a Defence Forces military police contingent (of 50 personnel) served in the NATO-led Stabilisation Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina (SFOR), following Dáil Éireann approval in July 1997. The Irish contingent formed part of the International Military Police Company at SFOR Headquarters in Sarajevo. The Military Police contingent was withdrawn from SFOR in January 2003. A small number of Irish personnel remained in service at SFOR HQ during 2003, and twelve personnel continued to serve with the mission until December 2004, when it was replaced by an EU led Operation "Althea" or EUFOR.
234 Ms Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the measures which are in place to regulate the keeping of exotic animals, their living conditions and methods of transport, in particular in relation to large circus animals; if there are plans to introduce new legislation in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25187/06]
The Protection of Animals Acts, which are the responsibility of the Minister for Agriculture and Food, deal with issues of animal welfare. My Department is represented on an Interdepartmental Working Group on the Keeping of Exotic Species which was established by the Department of Agriculture and Food a number of years ago.
235 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason one of his building inspectors refused to give a floor area certificate for houses (details supplied) in County Cork due to his interpretation of building regulations; and if it is not the case that interpretation and enforcement of building regulations is the responsibility of the building regulation section of Cork County Council. [25056/06]
Floor Area Compliance Certificates are issued where a house meets conditions and standards specified by my Department and, in particular, that the construction of the house is in compliance with the requirements of the building regulations. These conditions are set out in the FACC explanatory memorandum HA1. I understand, that in this particular case, certificates have issued in respect of over half of the properties concerned. The remainder of the certificates will issue on receipt of notification that outstanding necessary works have been completed.
236 Ms Sexton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will name the local authorities which insist on attaching claw-back provisions to disabled persons grants; the legal or statutory basis for such provisions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25098/06]
The Housing (Disabled Persons and Essential Repairs Grant) Regulations 2001, which came into effect on 19 December 2001, govern the operation of the disabled persons and essential repairs grant schemes. The administration of the disabled persons grant scheme is delegated to local authorities within the framework laid down in these regulations, which as far as is practicable, is designed to give an appropriate degree of flexibility at local level.
The majority of local authorities have reviewed their schemes over recent years in order to streamline their operation and have introduced a variety of mechanisms to ensure that the available resources are targeted to those in most need. In a number of cases, this includes a claw-back mechanism whereby the grant advanced is secured by way of a charge on the property for a certain number of years. In the event of the property being sold or otherwise transferred within that period, a certain proportion of the grant advanced would fall to be repaid to the local authority. This is intended to ensure that works, which are grant aided, serve the needs of a disabled person for a certain specified minimum period of time.
While my Department is aware that a number of local authorities implement a claw-back mechanism, it does not have detailed definitive information on a countrywide basis. The issue of claw backs has been considered further in the context of the overall review of the disabled persons grant scheme which was recently finalised. Proposals for the future operation of the scheme are being prepared in my Department and I hope to be in a position to announce these shortly.
237 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the agency which is responsible for monitoring the fumes and pollution arising from jets taking off over houses adjacent to aerodromes; the recourse a householder has if they believe that pollution levels are of a dangerous concentration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25099/06]
Under the Air Pollution Act 1987, primary responsibility for monitoring air quality, as well as the nature, extent and effects of emissions, is assigned to local authorities. Local authorities also have enforcement powers under the Act, including power to require measures to be taken to prevent or limit air pollution. Any person concerned about the effects of fumes or pollution from any source on the ambient air quality should raise the matter with the local authority concerned.
238 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if in relation to Parliamentary Question No. 437 of 13 June 2006, he will submit the information requested to be compiled. [25283/06]
I wrote to the Deputy on 22 June 2006 setting out the information requested.
239 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the orders he will issue to Sligo County Council to address the issue of accumulated backlogs of farm plastics by operating on a pilot basis a free service in 2006 where farmers may deposit stockpiled farm plastics; if he will ensure that the necessary funding is ring-fenced for Sligo County Council for this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25300/06]
To address the issue of accumulated backlogs of farm plastic, designated facilities are being provided this year on a temporary basis by local authorities where farmers may deposit stockpiled farm film plastic and silage wrap. This is operating on a pilot basis in the first instance in Counties Galway, Clare, Mayo, Offaly and Waterford. It is planned to roll out this service to other areas after the initial trial, which will assist in determining the quantities of plastic likely to be recovered for recycling under this initiative. This service will be free to the farmer and funding to assist the local authorities will be made available from my Department through the Environment Fund. Collections have commenced in most pilot areas.
