Gay Mitchell
Question:12 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport when it is envisaged the Phase 2 of the M50 upgrade will commence and when it will be completed. [29703/06]
Written Answers.
The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 11, inclusive, answered orally.
Road Network.
David Stanton
Question:89 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport the status of the phase 2 and phase 3 contracts planned as public private partnerships for the upgrade of the M50; if he will clarify if either of these two contracts have yet been signed; and if he will indicate the anticipated completion date of all M50 upgrade works. [29720/06]
Gay Mitchell
Question:99 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the status of the PPP process for the second phase of the M50 upgrade. [29702/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 12, 89 and 99 together.
At the outset, I should explain that overall responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the M50 upgrade, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned. I have no function in relation to the day-to-day operation of these projects.
In addition, the statutory power to levy tolls on national roads, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into toll agreements with private investors in respect of national roads, including the M50, is vested in the National Roads Authority (NRA) under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000).
The upgrade work on the M50 is being undertaken in three phases. Phase 1 comprises the widening of the carriageway between the N4 (Galway Road roundabout) and Ballymount interchanges and the upgrading of the N4, N7 and Ballymount interchanges. This work is currently under way and is expected to be completed in mid-2008. Phase 2 which is being administered as a Public Private Partnership project will comprise of the widening of the remainder of the M50 (other than the 3.2km West-Link section between the N3 and N4 junctions) and the upgrade of the other interchanges. The contract for Phase 2 is to be awarded in 2007 and construction is expected to be completed in 2010. Phase 3 comprises the widening of the 3.2km West-Link section between the N3 and N4 junctions which is expected to be completed by mid 2008.
Separately the NRA are procuring the replacement of the current West Link toll plaza with barrier free tolling. It is intended that this will be introduced during 2008 in tandem with the completion of phase 1 of the M50 upgrade.
I expect, therefore, that significant improvements in the situation on the M50 will take place in 2008. Further improvement will take place on completion of the later phases of the upgrade in 2010. In the meantime, traffic management in the area is being monitored on an ongoing basis with measures being taken where possible to alleviate traffic congestion resulting from the road works.
Public Transport.
Catherine Murphy
Question:13 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport when integrated ticketing will be introduced among public transport providers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29756/06]
Joe Costello
Question:41 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Transport the expected final cost of the integrated ticketing project; when it is expected the project will be concluded; the target date for the full introduction of integrated ticketing; the person who has charge of the project since it was taken from the Railway Procurement Agency; the expertise of the new person or body charged with concluding the project; the budget, timescale and terms of reference they are operating to; the amount of funding which has to date been wasted; the way in which it is to be recovered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30065/06]
Eamon Ryan
Question:91 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the amount which has been spent to date on the smart card project for integrated ticketing; the ticketing system that is being proposed; and the estimated final cost and date when such tickets integrating Luas, other rail and bus services will be introduced. [29907/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 41 and 91 together.
Two independent reviews of the integrated ticketing project were undertaken earlier this year. Both strongly recommended continuing with the project, albeit with enhanced governance arrangements being put in place. On foot of these reviews, I announced last July that I was in the process of establishing an Integrated Ticketing Project Board with responsibility for delivering the project.
The Project Board has now been established and is chaired by Mr. David O'Callaghan, a former Secretary General at the Department of Defence. The Board comprises the Chairman, the Chief Executives of the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA), Dublin Bus, Irish Rail, Bus Éireann and a representative of licensed private bus operators. An Assistant Secretary from my Department is also on the Board and a senior representative of the Department of Social & Family Affairs also attends as required.
The Project Board is responsible for the successful delivery of the smartcard technology required to deliver an integrated ticketing system within an agreed specification, timeline and budget. The Board is also to consider such other technical scope and design issues as may be necessary to complete delivery of the smart card technology (e.g. technical design issues in relation to possible fare structures and levels, ticket products, revenue collection strategies, data requirements etc). Before a public transport operator can proceed with any of its own ticketing investment proposals, the operator will be required to satisfy the Board that the proposed equipment is consistent with the integrated ticketing requirements.
Some €10.5 million has been paid out to date by the Exchequer on integrated ticketing since commencement of the project in 2002. During the period of the recent reviews, my Department recognised that there were ongoing costs associated with the project pending the completion of both reviews. It took the view, subsequently endorsed by both reviews, that if the project team and associated expertise were to be lost, it would have resulted in significant nugatory expenditure and would have been difficult to resurrect the project in its current form.
On its establishment, I set the Board a number of immediate tasks, including to review and settle by way of agreement the scope, timelines and budget for the phased completion of the integrated ticketing project. I have asked the Project Board to report back to me by September, 2006 with an agreed delivery strategy for the integrated ticketing project, including an assessment of the scope, timelines and budget. I expect to receive this report in the coming days.
Airport Development Projects.
Trevor Sargent
Question:14 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport the reason his Department has not sought the Dublin Airport Authority’s cost benefit analysis in respect of the proposed runway project; the process under which a decision will be made on whether a new runway will be built; and the expected timetable for such a process. [29917/06]
As I have stated previously in the House, proposals in relation to the development of Dublin Airport, including the planning and provision of runway capacity, are in the first instance a matter for the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) which has statutory responsibility to manage, operate and develop the airport and to provide such facilities and services as it considers necessary for aircraft and passengers.
Accordingly, the issue of cost benefit analysis in relation to the proposed second runway at Dublin Airport is a matter which falls within the responsibility of the management and board of the DAA. The DAA are of course required to comply with the capital appraisal guidelines issued by the Department of Finance and responsibility for compliance with the guidelines rests with the Board of the company.
Light Rail Project.
Róisín Shortall
Question:15 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport when and the way in which the controversy over the possible over-grounding of metro north through Ballymun Road in Dublin 9 will be dealt with. [30046/06]
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) is currently undertaking extensive work in relation to the Metro North.
The RPA has completed the public consultation process for the route alignment. The selection of the route is a matter for the RPA. I understand that the Board of the RPA expects to make a formal announcement in the near future regarding the preferred alignment. The Chairman of the Board will be meeting me next week to brief me on this announcement.
Further public consultation on the detailed design of the preferred route will be carried out by the RPA in the New Year. Thereafter, there will be a formal Public Inquiry procedure giving further opportunity to stakeholders to raise any issues or concerns regarding the project.
Road Safety.
Damien English
Question:16 Mr. English asked the Minister for Transport if he will introduce legislation requiring the daytime use of car lights, in view of the fact that an EU Directive is imminent. [29689/06]
The European Commission has indicated that it intends to propose measures for the mandatory use of Daytime Running Lights (DRL) on motor vehicles. In a consultation paper on the matter which it published last month, the Commission outlined the approach it prefers for EU legislation on this matter. The preferred proposed strategy would require new vehicles sold after a particular date to be equipped with dedicated DRL that automatically switches on once the engine is running and for existing vehicles to be driven with dipped headlights on at any time.
The Commission proposals are likely to be brought forward soon. Against that background the Road Safety Authority will assess the situation in the context of an overall road safety strategy and advise me on any legislative action that may be appropriate ahead of the impending EU proposals.
Road Traffic Offences.
Simon Coveney
Question:17 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Transport if he will legislate for a clearly delineated schedule of penalties in respect of dangerous driving offences. [29718/06]
Simon Coveney
Question:40 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Transport if he has introduced a penalty point offence under the heading dangerous driving or if he plans to do so. [29719/06]
Brendan Howlin
Question:68 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the low rate of prosecutions for dangerous driving and drink driving that result in a disqualification and the action he is taking to strengthen legislation to ensure a sufficient deterrent exists and that current legislation is robust enough for Gardaí to pursue cases with confidence. [30051/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 17, 40 and 68 together.
Dangerous driving and drink driving are amongst the most serious road traffic offences and as such lead to a direct court summons rather than coming within the administrative option of paying a fixed charge and accepting penalty points.
In the case of dangerous driving, where a person is convicted of the offence, he/she faces a fine of up to €2,500, or where death or serious injury was caused €15,000. In addition, a person convicted of a first offence of dangerous driving may face disqualification from driving for one year, and for a second and subsequent offence, two years. Where death or serious injury occurs, the person can be disqualified for 2 years for a first offence and 4 years for a second or subsequent offence.
The intended effect of the penalty points system is to instil greater caution and responsibility in motorists in relation to their driving and to change the behaviour of drivers who recurringly breach road traffic law. A six-month driving disqualification arises from the accumulation of 12 penalty points.
The most serious driving offences (including dangerous driving and drink driving), which can attract automatic disqualification upon first court conviction, therefore, do not come within the penalty points system or the system of fixed charges.
The Road Traffic Act 2006, which was enacted in July, has strengthened the legislative position in relation to drinking and driving. The Act provides for the operation of Mandatory Alcohol Testing (MAT) checkpoints which have been operating since then. The increased levels of enforcement arising from the introduction of the MAT system, should have a significant deterrent effect on those who would otherwise drink and drive. The 2006 Act also proposes increases to both the fines and periods of disqualification relating to dangerous driving and drink driving offences. These provisions will be brought into effect shortly, once the necessary administrative and technical arrangements have been settled by the agencies concerned.
Rail Network.
Joan Burton
Question:18 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Transport when he expects the feasibility study for the extension of rail line and services to Navan will commence; and his target date for making a railway order for the provision and upgrade of this line. [30067/06]
The planning and design of the Navan Rail Link is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance. I understand that the old Navan rail line will be re-opened in two phases with the first phase running off the Maynooth line, at Clonsilla, to the M3 interchange at Pace, near Dunboyne. There will be a major Park and Ride facility at Pace on the M3 interchange.
The current position regarding this phase is that detailed design work is underway and Iarnród Éireann expect to submit a Railway Order application in mid 2007 for statutory approval to enable the railway upgrade works to proceed with a view to completion of phase 1 in 2009 as provided for in Transport 21.
It is proposed to extend the rail line to Navan within the period of Transport 21. Iarnród Éireann and Meath County Council are developing terms of reference for a scoping study for the extension to Navan. I understand that the scope of work for the feasibility study has been defined and the procurement process for the engagement of consultants to carry out this work is expected to be completed by November and that the study should commence shortly thereafter.
Public Transport.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:19 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport when will he deliver on his commitments and release funding for Dublin Bus to purchase 100 extra buses. [29883/06]
Seán Crowe
Question:32 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if he will release the required funding in order that Dublin Bus can purchase an extra 100 buses in the short term; and if so, when will he do this. [29875/06]
Catherine Murphy
Question:55 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the way in which he intends to implement the recommendations of the Dublin Bus Network review; the timeframe for its implementation; if he is considering only Dublin Bus for the allocation of 200 extra buses, or if any other providers will also be considered when allocating these buses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29755/06]
Ruairí Quinn
Question:100 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport when he proposes to provide Dublin Bus with the extra buses it requires to service current demand. [30064/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19, 32, 55 and 100 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 5 of today.
Road Network.
Michael Noonan
Question:20 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Transport when it is envisaged that the toll barrier on the M50 will be removed. [29693/06]
Pat Breen
Question:75 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport the timetable and status of plans to introduce barrier free tolling on the M50. [29687/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 75 together.
The statutory power to levy tolls on national roads, to make toll by-laws and to enter into toll agreements with private investors in respect of national roads, including the M50, is vested in the National Roads Authority (NRA) under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000).
As the Deputy is aware, in January of this year, the NRA decided to replace the West-Link toll on the M50 by a single-point barrier free toll in 2008. The installation of barrier free tolling is a crucial element of the M50 upgrade which is underway at present. In that context, the NRA have initiated a tender competition for the provision of free flow tolling services with the objective of having free flow tolling arrangements operational on the M50 by mid 2008.
Rail Services.
Pádraic McCormack
Question:21 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Transport if he will seek expert independent advice on the changing economic arguments for rail freight which, unless steps are taken soon to preserve infrastructure and capacity, will be impossible to revive. [29699/06]
Dan Neville
Question:64 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Transport the steps he intends to take to salvage the rail freight sector and ensure that rail freight considerations underpin a new Ports policy. [29691/06]
Michael D. Higgins
Question:71 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport the reason for his inaction in stopping the dismantling of Irish rail freight infrastructure. [30070/06]
Kathleen Lynch
Question:106 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to increase the efficiency of freight movement here both from an economic and environmental point of view; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30071/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 21, 64, 71 and 106 together.
The Strategic Rail Review, commissioned by my Department, contained a comprehensive examination of the rail freight business and its realistic potential to support economic development and contribute to sustainable development.
Iarnród Éireann, in responding to the challenges contained in the Review, developed a business plan with regard to freight. The company's goal is to return the rail freight business to profitability. To help achieve this turnaround, Iarnród Éireann withdrew from loss-making groupage, palletised and single container rail transport. However, Iarnród Éireann continues to pursue a policy of growing its rail freight business where opportunities present such as in bulk and trainload traffic. This has resulted in the deficit on rail freight being reduced by 50% in the last three years.
Since 1999, Iarnród Éireann has invested over 1.5 billion euro in rebuilding the railways, with Government and EU support for the investment programme. This has delivered improvements in new trains, upgraded infrastructure and customer facilities. While such investment has primarily focused on improving passenger services, the investment in improving rail infrastructure also has a direct beneficial impact on freight activities. Iarnród Éireann has no plans to eliminate capacity or freight infrastructure.
Iarnród Éireann has made progress in growing the rail freight business in areas where it holds a competitive advantage over road haulage, including mineral ore and pulpwood. For example Iarnród Éireann has:
increased the trainload pulpwood business by modifying surplus wagons and providing additional services for Coillte between the West of Ireland and the South East;
altered rail schedules and is currently providing three additional trains per week for Tara Mines with a potential to carry an extra 85,000 tonnes of lead and zinc between Navan and Dublin Port per annum, and
modified surplus platform wagons to provide a trainload service for containers between Ballina and Waterford Port.
I have introduced the European Communities (Access to Railway Infrastructure) (Amendment) Regulations 2005 (S.I. No. 780 of 2005), implementing EU Directive 2004/51 on the development of the Community's Railways. These Regulations open the freight market to competition from both domestic and foreign operators, from 1 January 2006 in the case of international freight, and from 1 January 2007 in the case of domestic freight operations.
I should add that Iarnród Éireann has undertaken extensive engagement with industry and transporters around the country to try to identify long-term sustainable business opportunities. They have had genuine difficulty in identifying business opportunities that offer reasonable volumes of business on a regular basis. It is not feasible to run trains with one or two containers and Iarnród Eireann has not identified sufficient business to group a number of separate activities together to form a viable trainload. Most Irish industry is focused on ‘just in time' transport and as our road network continues to expand and improve across the country, the role of rail freight becomes more problematic because all rail journeys involve road movements at each end of the logistics chain. Furthermore, in Ireland distances are short. The experience across Europe is no different. Rail freight activities are most economic where distances are long, where there are large volumes to be transported and where the freight to be carried is not time sensitive.
As part of the engagement with industry Iarnród Éireann works closely with port authorities, such as in Dublin relating to transport of lead and zinc and Waterford relating to container traffic, to increase rail based freight. The Government's Ports Policy Statement recognises the need for the integration of ports as a fundamental link in the supply chain, with other transport modes including rail. The assignment of responsibility for maritime transport, including ports to my Department will facilitate the pursuit of this objective.
I am open to any views on how we can expand rail freight but the business environment is such that I have not seen any real opportunities identified. The market for rail freight will be fully liberalised in a matter of months and if there were opportunities I would welcome expressions of interest.
Public Transport.
Michael Noonan
Question:22 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Transport if it is envisaged that the promised regulator for the Dublin Bus market will be based in the promised Transport Authority. [29692/06]
Olwyn Enright
Question:43 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Transport when a regulator for the Dublin Bus market will be appointed. [29695/06]
Dinny McGinley
Question:58 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to allow meaningful competition in the Dublin Bus market. [29709/06]
Liz McManus
Question:74 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Transport when he proposes to publish the Public Transport Commission Bill; and the reason for the delay in doing so. [30062/06]
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:86 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport the details of his proposals to privatise Dublin Bus; the percentage he will privatise; and when he will implement his plans. [29881/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22, 43, 58, 74 and 86 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions Nos. 1, 2 and 5 today. Furthermore I have no proposals to privatise Dublin Bus.
National Car Test.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:23 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken on foot of the mid-term review of the National Car Test service. [30053/06]
I announced the findings of the mid-term review of the National Car Testing Service (NCTS) on 30th July 2006 and made arrangements for the full report of the independent review completed by PricewaterhouseCoopers to be placed on my Department's website.
The table set out below provides a summary of the PricewaterhouseCoopers report recommendations and the action taken to date concerning their implementation.
Responsibility for the NCTS has now passed to the Road Safety Authority since 13th September 2006 as a consequence the Road Safety Authority (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006.
|
No. |
Test item |
PwC Recommendation |
Update on implementation |
|
1. |
Conformity of registration plates with legal requirements. |
NCTS to provide, free of charge, registration plate stickers with relevant county name in Irish. Otherwise, conformance of registration plates to legal requirements should remain unchanged. |
Accepted and implemented by NCTS since 31 July 2006 |
|
2. |
Lamps on registration plates |
Registration plate lamps should be considered for omission from the test. |
As above |
|
3. |
‘Amberness’ of indicator lamps |
Test for ‘amberness’ of indicator lamps should be considered for relaxation of tolerance or omission from the test. |
As above |
|
4. |
Replacement of light bulbs |
There should be no change to the current arrangements in the event of bulb failure: this should remain a fail/refusal item. |
As above |
|
5. |
Cracked or chipped windscreens |
Guidelines for interpretation of windscreen faults should be reviewed by Technical Advisory Forum (see recommendation 17), otherwise remain unchanged. |
Recommendation accepted; technical consensus required to support any change. See recommendation 17 concerning the establishment of a Technical Advisory Forum |
|
6. |
Windscreen washer operation |
Windscreen washer operation should be limited to basic test of functionality with water available for owner to top-up reservoir if necessary. |
Accepted and implemented by NCTS since 31 July 2006 |
|
7. |
Retesting cars with new tyres |
Tyre failures should be classified as visual only and retested free of charge unless there are other faults requiring the use of the ramp. |
As above |
|
8. |
Wheel nut checks |
The Department should consider removing the requirement to check wheel nuts as part of the test. |
Implementation of recommendation deferred pending further consideration. |
|
9. |
Engine stress due to high revving during tests |
The current method of emissions testing should continue for the present. |
Recommendation accepted; technical consensus required to support any change. See recommendation 17 concerning the establishment of a Technical Advisory Forum |
|
10. |
Test data different from local garages |
NCTS should offer to benchmark underlying test results data (not just pass/fail) with local garages. |
Recommendation accepted and to be implemented from 1 October 2006 |
|
11. |
Test accuracy and consistency |
NCTS should continue to explore best practice in respect of ensuring consistency of its own test processes and procedures. |
Recommendation accepted. |
|
12. |
Additional test centres |
The Department should consider the feasibility of provision of a test centre at Inishowen. |
NCTS is expected to advertise for a new centre in Inishowen shortly |
|
13. |
Test waiting areas |
NCTS should investigate the reasons for customer dissatisfaction and undertake a programme of improvement to the waiting areas. |
Recommendation accepted and to be undertaken by 1 January 2007 |
|
14. |
Internet booking |
NCTS should introduce an optional pre-payment system for internet bookings. |
As above |
|
15. |
Improve staff-customer communications |
NCTS should provide additional training on customer care and should consider the introduction of comment sheets for customers. |
Accepted and implemented by NCTS since 31 July 2006 |
|
16. |
Calculation of test due dates for imported vehicles |
We recommend that the test due dates for imported cars should be calculated with reference to the date of first registration in Ireland. |
Recommendation accepted; implementation subject to IT modifications to the National Vehicle and Driver File. Subject to the necessary modifications being finalised, it would be the intention to implement this recommendation from 1 January 2007 |
|
17. |
NCTS/ VRU communications |
We recommend that the Vehicle Registration Unit and NCTS work to implement full file transfer of data to NCTS, as soon as possible. |
As above |
|
18. |
Technical advisory forum |
A technical advisory forum should be set up with representatives of, inter alia, the Society of Irish Motor Industry, NCTS, motoring organisations and An Garda Síochána. |
Terms of Reference for the proposed Technical Advisory Forum are being finalised. |
|
19. |
Mutual recognition of car testing |
The Department should participate, at European level in any discussions that could lead to mutual recognition of testing standards in various EU member states |
Recommendation accepted. |
Driving Tests.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:24 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce a statutory requirement for novice drivers to continue supervised practice and training after they have passed the practical driving test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30059/06]
Mary Upton
Question:25 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to revise the regulation of driver licensing to ensure that provisional drivers are no longer allowed to drive unaccompanied; if he has a target national average weekly wait for the driving test at which point this reform will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30050/06]
Róisín Shortall
Question:29 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to revise the regulation of driver licensing to ensure that drivers may not continually renew their provisional license without taking a driving test. [30049/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 24, 25 and 29 together.
I have indicated on previous occasions that I am not happy with the current driving licence system and that I am anxious to bring in reforms to the system.
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for the oversight of the operation of the driver licensing system. In addition under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 it is open to the Road Safety Authority to make recommendations in relation to the promotion of better driving standards and to draw up road safety programmes.
The Road Safety Authority will be examining the driver licensing system and will make recommendations as to what further reforms might be introduced in the interests of road safety. The requirements concerning accompaniment and supervision of learner drivers would of course be a matter to be considered by the RSA in such deliberations as would be the desirability of requiring novice drivers undergo further training or supervision.
Deputies will be aware of the significant measures that have been taken to help reduce the waiting times for driving tests. I have not set a precise target waiting time at which any reforms of the licensing system will be introduced. Rather, I will keep the matter under review having regard to the impact that the introduction of measures will have on the waiting times, and the desirability of introducing reforms in the interests of road safety. In this regard, I might mention that reforms may be introduced on a phased basis rather than all at once.
I should point out that at present provisional licence holders are generally required to be accompanied by and under the supervision of a person qualified to drive the category of vehicle being driven. The only exception to this is where the driver holds a second provisional licence in respect of a car or is the holder of a provisional licence to drive motorcycles or tractors/work vehicles.
As regards renewal of provisional licences, it is a regulatory condition for eligibility for renewal of a provisional licence that the person has generally within the proceeding period of two years undergone the driving test. This condition does not apply where the applicant satisfies the licensing authority that because of illness, as certified by a registered medical practitioner, the person was not in a position to submit to a driving test. Otherwise, the person must produce evidence to the licensing authority that a driving test has been arranged for that person. The conditions concerning renewal will be considered as part of the review of the licensing system.
Aer Lingus Flotation.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:26 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to reports that the percentage of Aer Lingus retained by the State is 25 per cent and not 25.1 per cent as indicated to the Dáil when the sale was sanctioned. [29716/06]
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:52 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport if he has satisfied himself with the amount that the State will receive from the sale of Aer Lingus. [29882/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:82 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if he has satisfied himself that the flotation of Aer Lingus is proceeding satisfactorily and as planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30082/06]
Seán Crowe
Question:101 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport the amount the State will make from selling the majority of its shares in Aer Lingus; and if he is satisfied with this amount. [29874/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:254 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the degree to which the flotation of Aer Lingus is progressing according to plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30394/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 26, 52, 82, 101 and 254 together.
In its decisions of 18 May 2005 and 4 April 2006, the Government agreed to the State reducing its shareholding in Aer Lingus, whilst retaining a significant stake, by way of an Initial Public Offering (IPO) and on 6 July 2006, the general principles of the sale of shares in Aer Lingus were approved by Dáil Éireann.
The offer price was decided on Tuesday 26th September 2006 and conditional dealings in the shares commenced on the Irish and London Stock Exchanges yesterday. Formal admission of the shares to the Official Lists of the Irish Stock Exchange and the UK Financial Services Authority will take place next Monday (2 October) and unconditional dealings will commence on that date.
The Government's overarching objective has always been to provide the Company with access to new equity to enable it to compete effectively and fund the growth of its business. The company will, through the issue of new shares, raise gross proceeds of the order of half a billion Euro.
In addition, I expect that the State will raise gross proceeds of around €200m. I have said on several occasions that the State would retain a minimum shareholding of 25.1%. The State's retained shareholding is now expected to be approximately 28.3%. Approximately 2.8% of this shareholding is subject to a call in favour of the Employee Share Ownership Trust, and to protect against the dilution effect of the issue of bonus shares to certain investors in twelve months time.
National Car Test.
Seymour Crawford
Question:27 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Transport if he has made or will make arrangements to ensure that illegalities uncovered in the course of the National Car Test are communicated to the Garda Síochána. [29714/06]
Oversight arrangements for the National Car Testing scheme are now vested in the Road Safety Authority since 13th September 2006 as a consequence of the Road Safety Authority (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006.
I understand from the Authority that the remit of the national car test (NCT) scheme is to determine periodically the roadworthiness condition of passenger cars and small public service vehicles. Where such vehicles fail a roadworthiness test, they are not issued with a NCT test certificate and the owner is provided with a test report in accordance with the rules for the scheme. There are no proposals under consideration to alter the remit of the current NCT scheme.
In so far as issues concerning breaches of the law are concerned including those relating to the unlawful use of vehicles, these are matters for the Garda Síochána to investigate and prosecute if appropriate. If the Deputy has specific information concerning breaches of the law, these should be brought to the attention of the Garda Síochána.
Finally, should the Deputy have particular proposals concerning the national car testing scheme, these can be sent to me or alternatively to the Chief Executive Officer of the Road Safety Authority.
Airport Development Projects.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:28 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport the current planning status of the new terminal planned for Dublin Airport in accordance with his policy announced in May 2005; if the increased size of Terminal 2 has implications for Terminal 3; and when the planning process for Terminal 3 will commence. [29717/06]
Trevor Sargent
Question:35 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport the estimated final cost of the second terminal for Dublin airport and associated infrastructure; and the way in which the project is to be funded. [29918/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 35 together.
Following a wide-ranging consultation process involving users, statutory authorities and other interested parties, the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) recently published its proposals for a second terminal at Dublin Airport (T2). A detailed planning application for the terminal and related facilities was submitted to Fingal County Council on 31 August 2006. Subject to the outcome of the planning process, construction of the new terminal will begin in summer 2007.
The DAA has informed me that as part of this consultation process it was made aware of the updated expansion of some of the key airlines operating out of Dublin Airport. To accommodate this growth the DAA decided to develop a 75,000 sq. metre terminal instead of the initially planned 50,000 metre facility. This 50% expansion in the scale of the development, and the attendant increase in the complexity of some of its features, are the key reasons for the increase in the cost of the facility which is now estimated to be €395m and which will be funded by the DAA. DAA is working to deliver the terminal by late 2009.
The consultants appointed by my Department to verify the specification and cost of the proposed Terminal Two at Dublin Airport, have now completed their work and submitted their report. The following are the main findings of the Boyd Creed Sweett report:
the consultation process with stakeholders in the development of requirements for the new terminal and the methodology, approach and execution of the planning objectives and considerations for passengers accords with best practice;
the development of the structural proposals is in accordance with best practice and the scheme chosen is comparable with that used in similar airport terminal buildings;
the estimated cost of Terminal Two on a cost per square metre basis lies at the mid point range of a UK terminal buildings benchmarking study; and
the benchmarking study and the Terminal Two cost plan have been independently verified by the consultants, who conclude that the estimated cost of the new terminal is within industry norms for this type of project in a European capital city.
It is envisaged by the DAA that additional terminal facilities will be required after 2015. Fingal County Council has included provision for a third terminal on the western campus in its Dublin Airport Masterplan in June last and this is an important aspect of facilitating timely additional capacity.
Question No. 29 answered with QuestionNo. 24.
Driving Instructors.
Martin Ferris
Question:30 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Transport if he or his Department have had discussions with the Road Safety Authority regarding the regulation of driving instructors; and the timescale he envisages for their regulation. [29878/06]
The registration of driving instructors will be the responsibility of the Road Safety Authority. On the 19 June last I launched a document entitled "Consultation on the Regulation of Driving Instruction in Ireland" which was prepared by my Department in consultation with the Road Safety Authority. Submissions from stakeholders were sought by the 8 September 2006. Submissions have been received and are being considered by the RSA.
In the document it was proposed that from 1 July 2007 all new entrants to the driving instruction industry must be approved and registered before being allowed to instruct for reward and that existing driving instructors must be approved and registered by 1 July 2008.
State Airports.
Jerry Cowley
Question:31 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Transport when the additional essential funding will be provided to enable Ireland West Airport, Knock develop and increase capacity as being demanded by the general public; his views on the fact that given the constant increases in passenger numbers at this airport, would it not be prudent for this Government to invest in this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29753/06]
Jerry Cowley
Question:67 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Transport to provide details of the long term financial-investment plans he has for Ireland West Airport, Knock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29754/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 67 together.
The level of Exchequer funding for capital expenditure at Ireland West Airport Knock and at the other regional airports in the years ahead will be determined within the framework of a new scheme recently introduced by my Department to ensure that such funding is in compliance with the legally-binding EU guidelines on financing of airports which were published towards the end of last year.
Under the Capital Expenditure Grant Scheme, applications from the regional airports will be assessed by reference to a planning and implementation framework extending to 2010 and a budget of €65 million out of the total of €100 million for which Transport 21 provides up to 2015. As well as the continuation of grant assistance for essential safety and security capital expenditure under the NDP, all regional airports are eligible for capital expenditure grants where demand for additional air services can be demonstrated and where an economic case can be made to justify increased investment.
At my Department's request, all of the regional airports including Ireland West Airport Knock have submitted proposals for funding under the new scheme. These grant applications will be assessed and prioritised by my Department with the assistance of expert advice and I expect to be in a position to announce each airport's allocation under the scheme by the end of November this year.
Question No. 32 answered with QuestionNo. 19.
Aviation Regulations.
Seán Ryan
Question:33 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied that the regulation of flight time limitations is being routinely and rigorously enforced by the IAA; the basis for the conclusion in this regard; and the information available to him on the level of activity of the IAA in enforcing flight time regulations. [30066/06]
The regulation of flight time limitations is an operational matter for the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA). I am advised by the IAA that they rigorously enforce the relevant regulations through ongoing surveillance of Irish airlines. The IAA conducts a series of audits on flight time limitations in all Irish airlines to ensure compliance with current regulations and approved flight time limitations schemes (typically every six months). I understand that in 2005 in excess of 3,500 individual records were examined on this topic alone.
The IAA is subject to routine audits by the International Civil Aviation Authority (ICAO), the Joint Aviation Authority (JAA), the Department of Transport and IAA internal audits which verify IAA effectiveness in this regard.
Road Safety.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:34 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport when he proposes to introduce legislation for the compulsory fitting of cyclops mirrors to all large vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30042/06]
Since 13 September 2006 as a consequence of the Road Safety Authority (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 responsibility for matters relating to vehicle standards, including requirements in relation to mirrors on vehicles, has passed to the Road Safety Authority. Prior to the Road Safety Authority taking over the responsibility for these matters, I had made considerable progress on the issue of the voluntary fitting of vision-enhancing mirrors to HGVs and buses and I have no doubt that the Road Safety Authority will continue in that vein working with the motor trade and other stakeholders to ensure best practice in relation to these critically important motor components.
I am favourably disposed, as is the Road Safety Authority, to the compulsory fitment of cyclops mirrors to existing HGVs and buses. However, before such a requirement could be introduced it would be necessary for a regulatory impact assessment of the proposal to be carried out and for the European Commission to be consulted. The RSA has indicated to me that it will soon embark on undertaking such an assessment of the proposal and will prepare, for public consultation, a draft regulation to bring about a compulsory situation, which the Authority may submit to me in due course.
Question No. 35 answered with QuestionNo. 28.
Question No. 36 answered with QuestionNo. 11.
Road Traffic Offences.
Willie Penrose
Question:37 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Transport the action he is taking to address the anomaly in the law whereby drivers of vehicles with non-transparent windows can flout the new law banning driving while holding a mobile phone; the reason for his inaction when both the Gardaí and the vehicle registration unit expressed a concern regarding same almost 12 months ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30075/06]
I have asked the Road Safety Authority to examine this matter as a priority. The Authority will be seeking the views of the Technical Advisory Forum for the National Car Test (NCT) on the matter. The establishment of an Advisory Forum body to consider and make recommendations to the RSA in relation to vehicle technical matters associated with the NCT regime was recommended in the report of the mid-term review of the national car testing service.
I understand from the Authority that it will shortly be seeking nominations from relevant organisations and stakeholders to serve on the forum and that it expects the forum to be constituted in the next few weeks.
Driving Tests.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:38 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport the projected demand for driving tests in 2006, 2007 and 2008 and the basis for his calculation; the projected supply of driving tests in the same period with a breakdown by source; and the way in which he proposes to reduce average waiting periods to below six weeks. [30058/06]
Martin Ferris
Question:53 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Transport if progress has been made on resolving the driving test backlog. [29879/06]
Seymour Crawford
Question:56 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Transport if he will give a status report on progress to end the backlog of those awaiting a driving test. [29715/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 38, 53 and 56 together.
It is my objective to eliminate the backlog of driving tests by mid-2007. That means having a waiting list of no more than about 50,000 that can be scheduled in a 10 to 12 week period. The Road Safety Authority now has responsibility for the delivery of driving tests and will be working towards this objective.
The measures I have put in place to achieve this objective are: the redeployment of seven civil servants from the Department of Agriculture and Food as driver testers in April this year giving an annual additional capacity of about 10,000 tests; the recruitment of eleven driver testers on 2-year contracts who will provide additional capacity of about 15,000 tests in a full year; the introduction of a bonus scheme for driver testers from February, 2006 which has the potential to deliver up to 40,000 driving tests; and the outsourcing of a block of 40,000 tests to an outside agency which can be extended to 45,000 tests if necessary.
SGS Ltd., the company contracted to conduct driving tests, commenced issuing driving test appointment letters to test candidates during the week commencing 11 September. SGS Ltd. will begin conducting driving tests during the week commencing 23 October.
I expect to see a marked reduction in the waiting list by the end of this year. I also expect that the Road Safety Authority to formally review the position, taking account of all the above measures and take any action necessary to ensure a reduction in the waiting times in line with my objective.
In relation to demand forecasting a statistical forecasting model for driving test applications from 2000 to 2006 has been in use. Applications received were within range for the years up to 2003. In 2003, applications rose to a record level for a short period. It is this spike in applications that has caused the backlog in the testing system. Since then applications have returned to within predicted range. The Road Safety Authority will be preparing demand forecasts into the future.
Rail Network.
Michael D. Higgins
Question:39 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport if he has finished his consideration of Iarnród Éireann’s business proposals in relation to phase one and two of the western rail corridor; and the plans to provide funding for the extension of the services northwards to Collooney, County Sligo. [30068/06]
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:42 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport the progress which has been made on the development of the western rail corridor; when the existing rail line from Ennis to Athenry will be reopened; and the expected timetable and budget for the opening of passenger services on the first phase of the western rail corridor. [29914/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 39 and 42 together.
The development of the Western Rail Corridor from Ennis to Claremorris was included as a priority project under Transport 21, with provision also for the preservation of the line from Claremorris to Collooney. This was confirmed recently in Towards 2016, the new Partnership Agreement.
Transport 21 provides for the re-opening of the corridor on a phased basis, in line with the recommendations of the Report by the Expert Working Group on the Western Rail Corridor Chaired by Mr. Pat McCann. The Ennis to Athenry section is to be completed in 2008, the Athenry to Tuam section in 2011 and the Tuam to Claremorris section in 2014.
The current situation is that on Tuesday last, I announced Government approval for funding of approx €100m for the development of the first phase of the Western Rail Corridor from Ennis to Athenry, which is expected to cost approx €100m at 2005 prices. I have asked Irish Rail to proceed now with the detailed planning and design of the project, with a view to commencing track renewal in mid-2007 and completing the project in 2008.
I also announced that, subject to some further studies to be completed by Irish Rail, the Government has approved funding in principle for the development of phase 2 of the corridor between Athenry and Tuam, scheduled for completion by 2011.
In relation to phase 3 of the project, the development of the section from Tuam to Claremorris, I expect to receive business case proposals from Irish Rail at the appropriate time and in accordance with the timetable announced under Transport 21.
In addition, on 18 September last, my Cabinet colleague Minister Ó Cuív announced that funding for the preservation of the Claremorris to Collooney section of the corridor would be provided under the Clár Programme.
Question No. 40 answered with QuestionNo. 17.
Question No. 41 answered with QuestionNo. 13.
Question No. 42 answered with QuestionNo. 39.
Question No. 43 answered with QuestionNo. 22.
Question No. 44 answered with QuestionNo. 11.
Insurance Industry.
Liz McManus
Question:45 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to ensure that reductions in insurance compensation payments are passed on to the consumer through improved car insurance premia; the action he is taking to encourage more insurance companies to incorporate loadings or savings on their premia in respect of penalty point offences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30063/06]
I have no direct responsibility in relation to setting of motor insurance premiums. Insurance cover is provided based on actuarial or statistical data or other underwriting or commercial factors.
It would be important to recognise at the outset that the Personal Injuries Assessment Board award compensation at the same level as the Courts. However the legal costs are substantially lower than processing a claim through the courts. The insurance industry points out that through their own research and using Central Statistic Office data, insurance premiums are now, in real terms, lower than at any time since 1992.
As stated earlier, motor insurance companies use a range of factors when assessing risk and arriving at different categories of insurance premiums. Penalty points are one such factor. The industry acknowledge the following criteria among their rating factor — age, gender, type of driving licence, claims experience, class of use, vehicle engine cc as well as other criteria. The Department understands that some motor insurers use penalty points as a specific rating factor, whereas others take a more general approach of acknowledging the effects of penalty points on the overall claims costs and price premiums accordingly.
The Government for its part initiated the Insurance Reform Programme in 2002 which has been very successful in bringing down the cost and increasing the availability of motor insurance. Between April 2003 and August 2006, overall motor insurance premiums have fallen by some 28.5 percent. The recommendations contained in the Motor Insurance Advisory Board's report form the bedrock of the insurance reform programme which my Department is implementing. The operation of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board and anti-fraud measures incorporated in the Courts and Civil Liability Act have already improved the environment for lower costs of claims resulting from personal injury claims and compensation. Random breath testing, increased resources to the Garda Traffic Corps and the roll-out of the penalty points system are also expected to deliver better driver behaviour and reduced frequency of traffic collisions.
Road Network.
Emmet Stagg
Question:46 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport the reports he has received from the National Roads Authority to date in relation to their proposal to buy out the private toll on the M50; the information supplied to him from any source on the likely charge to the Exchequer of buying out the toll; when the toll will be bought out; and the reason for the ongoing delay in bringing forward legislation for open road tolling on the M50. [30069/06]
As the Deputy is aware, last January, the National Roads Authority (NRA) decided to terminate discussions with National Toll Roads plc (NTR) in relation to the upgrading of the West-Link toll facility. Instead the NRA is separately procuring a barrier free toll system, which will become operational in 2008. NTR will be compensated in accordance with the existing West-Link Agreement.
The exact details of the arrangements, including compensation, remain to be finalised between NRA and NTR and as these discussions are ongoing at present, I would not wish to pre-empt their outcome.
In relation to barrier free tolling legislation, my officials are currently preparing proposals for a Roads Amendment Bill 2006 to strengthen the statutory basis. I hope to bring the Bill before the Oireachtas before the end of this year.
Garda Equipment.
Bernard Allen
Question:47 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Transport the status of plans to outsource speed cameras. [29706/06]
This is a matter for the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
Road Traffic Offences.
Dan Boyle
Question:48 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to close the operational anomaly that penalty points do not appear on a driver’s licence, that there is no penalty attached to the offence of failing to surrender a driving licence, thereby allowing drivers with 12 penalty points to continue driving. [29909/06]
The Road Traffic Act 2002 provides that penalty points will be endorsed on a person's licence record and not on the licence.
Under section 5(3) of the Road Traffic Act 2002 it is an offence not to comply with a direction to surrender your licence when you are disqualified having reached 12 points. This offence attracts a fine of up to €800 in the case of a first offence or a fine of up to €1,500 for a second or subsequent offence.
Anyone driving while disqualified is guilty of an offence under section 38 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 as amended and is liable to a fine of up to €5,000 or up to six months imprisonment or both.
Public Transport.
Joan Burton
Question:49 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update on the metro west project. [30045/06]
Metro West, which will be built on a phased basis, is intended to link Tallaght with Clondalkin, Lucan and Blanchardstown and connect with Metro North at Ballymun. The RPA have made good progress on identifying feasible alignments and I understand that the RPA will commence public consultation on the route options before the end of this year. Thereafter, it is expected that a preferred alignment will be identified early in 2007, pending the outcome of this stage of public consultation.
In line with the timeframes set out in Transport 21, Metro West is scheduled for completion in 2014.
Question No. 50 answered with QuestionNo. 11.
Air Services.
Kathleen Lynch
Question:51 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Transport his policy in relation to the establishment of a confidential reporting system for the Irish Aviation Industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30073/06]
Directive 2003/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2003 on occurrence reporting in civil aviation includes an option for Member States to develop a confidential reporting system. Preparation of the Statutory Instrument to transpose this Directive into Irish law is well advanced.
Question No. 52 answered with QuestionNo. 26.
Question No. 53 answered with QuestionNo. 38.
Road Safety.
Joe Costello
Question:54 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied with the level of awareness among parents and drivers of the new law on seatbelts for children; the way in which this has been assessed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30072/06]
An extensive public awareness programme to promote the child safety requirements of the European Communities (Compulsory Use of Safety Belts and Child Restraint Systems in Motor Vehicles) Regulations 2006 was initiated earlier this month by the Road Safety Authority. I understand from the Authority that the response to the campaign to date is very encouraging and that it has already brought about a significantly increase in public awareness of the need for children to be properly and safely restrained in motor vehicles. As a follow on from the awareness programme, the Authority will be conducting surveys in due course to determine awareness levels and seating wearing compliance by the public in relation to the use of safety belts and child restraint systems in motor vehicles.
Question No. 55 answered with QuestionNo. 19.
Question No. 56 answered with QuestionNo. 38.
Road Network.
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:57 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the contact he has had with the National Roads Authority in respect of the cost and projected opening date of the Port Tunnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29724/06]
At the outset, I should explain that overall responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the Dublin Port Tunnel, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned, in this case, Dublin City Council. I understand from the NRA that the estimated cost of the Tunnel remains at €751 million, which has been the estimate for some time.
As regards the opening of the Tunnel, I understand that the main construction and installation work in the Tunnel was completed in July. The latest indication from Dublin City Council and the NRA is that the Tunnel will open later this year. However, in the interest of public safety, the exact opening date will be contingent on satisfactory completion of the testing and commissioning of the Tunnel's operational and safety features, including the training of operational and emergency services staff.
My Department is keeping in touch with all stakeholders, including the NRA and Dublin City Council, on a regular basis to ensure that a co-ordinated strategy is developed for the opening of the Tunnel.
Question No. 58 answered with QuestionNo. 22.
International Agreements.
Phil Hogan
Question:59 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Transport the status of EU negotiations with the United States on Open Skies. [29704/06]
Phil Hogan
Question:72 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Transport if there is failure to reach agreement on Open Skies; and if he will pursue a new bilateral with the United States. [29705/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 59 and 72 together.
As I indicated in a written answer yesterday in November 2005 EU and US negotiators concluded work on the text of a first-phase EU-US Open Skies agreement. The text was unanimously endorsed at the December 2005 Transport Council subject to sufficient progress by the US side on opening up ownership and control of US airlines to EU investors. The formal US process of changing its ownership and control rules was expected to be concluded in August 2006 so that a final decision could be taken at the October Transport Council. However, due to difficulties on the US side the rule-making process has been extended.
I am fully committed to the view that the liberalisation of air transport services between Ireland and the US will deliver major benefits for Irish business and tourism. I have written to EU Commissioner Barrot strongly urging the Commission to continue engagement with the US Authorities so that they can be in a position to bring forward a proposal for decision at the October Transport Council that will incorporate the Irish transition arrangements. In the absence of progress at EU level I intend to seek to implement, in accordance with the applicable Community law, the essential elements of the transitional arrangements by way of an amendment to the Ireland-US bilateral Air Services Agreement.
Planning Issues.
John Gormley
Question:60 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Transport if development levies will be collected for developments situated adjacent to proposed new Metro lines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29915/06]
It is a matter for each Local Authority to decide whether to introduce development levy schemes in their area for new Metro and Luas projects. I understand from the Railway Procurement Agency that it is currently in the alignment identification stage of each of these projects and is studying these routes in partnership with the relevant local authorities. Once final alignments have been agreed RPA will seek the implementation of development levies to support each project.
Section 49 of the Planning & Development Act, 2000, provides for the drawing up of supplementary development contribution schemes by Local Authorities in order to facilitate a particular public infrastructure service or project. Such development levy schemes can be used for rail, light rail metro or other public transport infrastructure and can help to bring forward the delivery of these projects. A development levy scheme has already been introduced by Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council in respect of the proposed Luas extension from Sandyford to Cherrywood. A similar scheme has been introduced by the Dublin Docklands Development Authority under its own legislation in respect of the proposed Luas extension from Connolly Station to the Point.
Public Transport.
Jack Wall
Question:61 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to revise fare-zoning as operated by public sector transport companies; and the discussions he has had with these companies regarding reducing fares on certain routes. [30047/06]
I have no function in relation to this matter. The structure of fares is an operational matter for the CIE companies.
John Deasy
Question:62 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Waterford is the only city here that does not have a public bus service on Sundays and bank holidays; the discussions he has had with Bus Éireann regarding the provision of a Sunday service in Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29759/06]
The decision to operate public bus services on specific days of the week is an operational matter for bus operators. I understand that in the case of Bus Éireann, they are considering the introduction of such services, in the light of my announcement today on expanding the company's bus fleet.
Rail Services.
Paul Connaughton
Question:63 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider either the provision of a regulator for the rail freight sector or the seeking of tenders for an operator from the private sector to operate the service for a number of years. [29700/06]
The European Communities (Access to Railway Infrastructure) (Amendment) Regulations, 2005 (S.I. 780 of 2005), transposes Directive 2004/51/EC on the development of the Community's Railways. In line with developments across the EU, these Regulations allow for the opening of the freight market to competition from 1 January 2006, in the case of international freight, and from 1 January 2007 for domestic freight operations. The rail freight industry across the EU is aware of these developments.
I have said on a number of occasions that I welcome the development of a liberalised rail freight market and I am open to considering proposals from interested parties on any innovative or new approaches to rail freight which offer value for money, where a real and tangible return on Exchequer investment can be demonstrated. However, no formal applications have been received in my Department for a railway undertaking licence or for track access.
I have no proposals for the provision of an independent rail regulator for the rail sector.
Question No. 64 answered with QuestionNo. 21.
Road Safety.
Olivia Mitchell
Question:65 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if, following his letter to the local authorities requesting a review of existing speed limits, he is now satisfied that all local authorities have carried out this review and if he can confirm that appropriate by-laws are, or have been, put in place on foot of that review. [29685/06]
Olivia Mitchell
Question:84 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport following his letter to the local authorities about speed limits, if all special speed limits introduced prior to and post metrification have been made in accordance with the relevant by-laws. [29684/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 65 and 84 together.
Statutory responsibility for the application of special speed limits through the making of special speed limit by-laws is vested in the county councils and city councils. I understand that the majority of the 34 county councils and city councils have either completed a review of existing speed limits, have a review underway at present or are planning to carry out such a review later in 2006, pursuant to section 9 of the Road Traffic Act 2004, with a view to adopting new by-laws.
All 34 local authorities indicated that the special speed limit by-laws that were in place prior to 20 January 2005 were still applicable. Five of the authorities indicated that new additional by-laws had been adopted since January 2005 to apply special speed limits at further locations. My Department will continue to monitor this situation to ensure that the local authorities follow through on their stated intentions as outlined above.
Light Rail Project.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:66 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport when he expects to make a decision regarding the proposed linking of the two existing LUAS lines in Dublin City centre; when he expects to receive a report from the Railway Procurement Agency on preferred route options; and the length of time for the line be delivered once a Government decision has been made to go ahead with the project. [29913/06]
The RPA began a public consultation on five potential routes for linking the two existing Luas lines in the city centre in November 2005. This consultation is ongoing. The RPA is engaged in dialogue with the City Council, Dublin Bus and the Dublin Transportation Office in relation to the implications of the potential routes for other road users. Subject to satisfactory outcome of those discussions, the RPA expect to identify a preferred option in November 2006 and following this an application for a Railway Order will be made. Construction timescale will be dependent on the route chosen following the public consultation and the discussions with stakeholders.
Question No. 67 answered with QuestionNo. 31.
Question No. 68 answered with QuestionNo. 17.
Question No. 69 answered with QuestionNo. 11.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Tom Hayes
Question:70 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Transport his plans to encourage the production and use of renewable indigenous transport fuels. [29725/06]
The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources is responsible for the promotion and development of renewable energy which includes biofuels. To facilitate the formulation of a national biofuels policy, that Department has established an inter-Departmental Biofuels Group, in which my Department participates. My Department is committed to delivering a sustainable transport system designed to balance economic, social and environmental considerations in the development and delivery of transport policy. A range of policies and measures are being progressed which will facilitate the promotion of biofuels in the transport sector.
The CIE companies have committed to regular reporting to my Department on the progress made towards the substitution of fossil fuel with biofuel alternatives. Dublin Bus is currently piloting the use of 5% biodiesel blend in five vehicles in Dublin and Bus Éireann intends to commence a pilot of 5% biofuel blend in Cork in the near future.
Transport 21 provides funding for a range of sustainable transport initiatives. The purpose of these initiatives is to facilitate the mainstreaming of sustainability criteria into transport investment decision-making and to make cleaner, more environmentally-friendly vehicles available. These initiatives include pilot projects to test the feasibility of biofuel use in public transport bus operations and HGVs. The projects will build on the initiatives already underway in Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann and the results will be used to guide future policy development, particularly in relation to public transport investment.
Question No. 71 answered with QuestionNo. 21.
Question No. 72 answered with QuestionNo. 59.
Legislative Programme.
Brendan Howlin
Question:73 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Transport the reasons for his delay in extending whistleblowing legislation to all transport sectors here. [30052/06]
Section 54 of the Railway Safety Act 2005 provides for staff of a railway undertaking or a person working under contract of services with a railway undertaking to inform the Railway Safety Commission of any information relevant to an investigation of a railway incident or of any risk to the railway in terms of its staff and passengers arising from the operations of the undertaking. The Act also provides that the member of staff cannot be disciplined or disadvantaged in any way following the provision of such information.
Directive 2003/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 June 2003 on occurrence reporting in civil aviation includes an option for Member States to develop a confidential reporting system. Work is under way to transpose this Directive into Irish law. I have no further proposals at present in relation to whistleblowing legislation.
Question No. 74 answered with QuestionNo. 22.
Question No. 75 answered with QuestionNo. 20.
Road Safety.
Emmet Stagg
Question:76 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport the work of the Cabinet sub-committee on road safety; the number of times the committee has met since its establishment; the last time it met and the agenda; and the decisions taken and proposals adopted. [30060/06]
Arthur Morgan
Question:77 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Transport if he has had recent meetings or discussions with the Department of Education and Science regarding ensuring that road safety is placed on the school curriculum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29877/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 76 and 77 together.
The Cabinet Sub Committee on Road Safety was established in January 2006 to promote cross departmental road safety issues. The first meeting took place in early February. Further meetings were held in March, May and July. Following discussions on how to further enhance road safety, the Road Safety Authority will be working in partnership with the Department for Education and Science to develop a specific additional road safety resource suitable for transition year pupils. I understand that this work is currently underway and details can be obtained directly from the Road Safety Authority. In addition, the Road Safety Authority has a number of initiatives in place to ensure road safety is targeted at schools as outlined in the following table.
|
Programme Title |
Target |
|
|
1. |
“Seatbelt Sheriff” |
1st & 2nd Classes all primary schools. |
|
2 |
“ Cycling Proficiency Training” |
Co-funded in 11 counties. (Primary schools) |
|
3 |
“Be Safe” |
5th & 6th Classes in Primary schools |
|
4 |
“Streetwise” |
1st to 4th Years secondary schools. |
|
5 |
“Staying Alive” |
Transition Year — Secondary Schools |
These programmes are augmented with information materials for children, their parents and schools.
Rail Safety.
Richard Bruton
Question:78 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the action he intends to take following the publication of the report on the collapse of the Cahir viaduct. [29710/06]
The Report of the Inquiry into the Derailment of a Freight Train at Cahir was published on the 3 August, 2006. The implementation of the recommendations of the report is a matter for Iarnród Éireann and the Railway Safety Commission. I understand from both the Railway Safety Commission and Iarnród Éireann that the latter is implementing the recommendations which focus on strengthening Iarnród Éireann's inspection and maintenance regime and its safety management systems. The Railway Safety Commissioner has advised my Department that he is satisfied that Iarnród Éireann are implementing the recommendations but he will continue to track overall implementation of the recommendations on an ongoing basis.
Most of the recommendations are being carried out and funded under the €512m Railway Safety Programme for the period 2004-2008. In relation to railway safety generally, the position is that this Government has prioritised investment in Railway Safety since 1999 and total investment over the period 1999 to date amounts to over €850m. This investment is providing a twofold benefit for passengers: a safer railway as well as better and more frequent passenger services. Since 1999, Iarnród Éireann has renewed approximately 760 kilometres of track, erected over 500 kilometres of new fencing, replaced and/or renewed over 170 bridges and closed or upgraded over 750 level crossings.
Other elements of the safety programme included investment in signals, telecommunications and electrification as well as in cuttings and embankments. The development of the company's safety management systems has also been addressed with over €80m expended on improving the safety management systems, procedures and practices and in promoting safety culture at all levels in the organisation.
As part of Transport 21, investment in railway safety will be maintained at a high level to ensure full implementation of the railway safety programme recommended by the Task Force on Railway Safety. In addition to the increased investment, the establishment of the Railway Safety Commission on 1 January, 2006 under the provisions of the Railway Safety Act, 2005 has provided a modern regulatory framework for railway safety. Increased investment combined with a modern legislative framework for railway safety will ensure a continuing high level of safety across the railway network.
Pension Provisions.
Seán Ryan
Question:79 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the steps he will take to address the deficit or deficiency in the Irish Airline General Employees superannuation scheme and to provide the indexation of pensions for employees of the Dublin Airport Authority and SR Technics in view of the recent provisions made for Aer Lingus pensioners. [30057/06]
Pension entitlements for employees in the DAA and SR Technics are primarily matters for the Trustees, the members of the relevant scheme and the companies involved. The pension scheme in question, the Irish Airlines (General Employees) Superannuation Scheme, is a multi-employer scheme in which these two companies and Aer Lingus participate. Under the rules of the Scheme indexation increases are not guaranteed and are not explicitly funded but depend on the performance of the pension fund and are paid at the discretion of the Trustees of the Scheme. I understand, however, that the practice by the Trustees has been to provide pension increases in line with CPI.
The provisions made in relation to Aer Lingus are particular to that company and were agreed in the context of the overall arrangements put in place for the Aer Lingus IPO.
Cycle Facilities.
Breeda Moynihan-Cronin
Question:80 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Transport the published policies his Department have on fostering and facilitating cycling; the budget allocated to such policies; and the number of staff in his Department dedicated to cycling policy. [30078/06]
The Government is committed to promoting cycling, as is made clear in the Programme for Government: "We will invest in expanding the national network of cycleways in order to encourage more people to cycle and to promote cycling as a safe and healthy mode of travel" — Programme for Government, Page 14, June 2002. It is Government policy to make provision for the bicycle as a separate mode in the design and maintenance of roads.
While the provision of cycle ways and cycle parking is, in the first instance, a matter for the relevant local authorities, my Department provides funding for cycle facility provision by local authorities in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), through its Traffic Management Grants (TMG) Scheme, which is administered by the Dublin Transportation Office (DTO). €45m was set aside for Traffic Management Grants this year. Allocations are made to individual projects based upon proposals from local authorities and in order of priority based upon a multi-criteria analysis. The development of cycle facilities also takes place in conjunction with the implementation of bus priority schemes. Approximately €30m has been provided by the Exchequer for the provision of cycling facilities in the Greater Dublin Area since 1994, €1m of which was provided in 2005. €2.2m has been allocated for cycle facilities in 2006. Overall, there are now approximately 300 kms of cycle network in the GDA.
The DTO cycletrack design manual (Provision of Cycling Facilities: National Manual for Urban Areas), published in 1997, provides guidance on the design of cycle facilities in Ireland. It is available on the DTO website at www.dto.ie/web2006/chapter1.pdf. The manual is supplemented by the DTO Traffic Management Guidelines, published in September 2003 in conjunction with the Department of Transport and the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
A new edition of the DTO cycle manual is now being drafted by the DTO, which will address, inter alia: Compatibility and integration with the DTO Traffic Management Guidelines 2003, especially in the area of road hierarchy, road layouts, parking etc. Clarifications in relation to legislation etc. Design-specific issues such as cycling and bus stops, cycle parking development, roundabout detailing, cycling and trams, cycling and trucks, cycling and bus lanes. Expanded junction design guidance.
The DTO Steering Committee adopted a Cycle Policy for the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) at its September 2006 meeting. The Cycle Policy is a statement of intent by the Dublin Local Authorities, the DTO and other members of the DTO Steering Committee. The policy proposes to enhance the cycling environment in the GDA and promote cycling by a variety of means, including creating a continuous cycle-friendly environment on cycle routes and training and education measures. The GDA cycling strategy will now be further developed by the establishment of a GDA Cycle Working Group, consisting of local authorities and other relevant implementing/funding agencies. Partnerships will be formed with other stakeholders as necessary.
Outside of Dublin, the framework for the promotion of cycling in the regional cities is set out in the relevant land use and transportation strategy or in the relevant Development Plan or Local Area Plan. The Cork Area Strategic Plan contains proposals to improve facilities for cyclists and promote safe cycling in the city, and Cork City Council has since also developed a cycle network strategy. In Galway, the City Development Plan includes proposals for improving facilities for cyclists. Limerick City Council approved a cycle strategy for Limerick in May 2004, while the Waterford City Development Plan includes proposals for improving facilities for cyclists.
The most significant development of cycle facilities in the Regional Cities, funded by my Department, has arisen as a consequence of the development of Green Routes, QBCs and bus lanes in those cities. Cork City Council is in the process of developing ten Green Routes, including cycling facilities, with funding from my Department. It is anticipated that the most significant development of cycle facilities in Galway in the near future will arise as a consequence of the development of bus lanes recommended by the Strategic Galway Bus Study. This study, funded by my Department, is expected to be completed in the coming weeks. In the case of Limerick, my Department is funding a Green Route programme including the provision of cycling facilities, which form part of a planned integrated cycle network for Limerick. Waterford City Council, with funding from my Department, engaged consultants to prepare reports and to carry out design for the Waterford City N25 and Dunmore Road Green Routes. These projects will include provision for cycling facilities.
The staff in my Department's Accessibility, Rural Transport and Traffic Management Division, deal directly with the DTO and Local Authorities outside the Greater Dublin Area on traffic management matters, including cycling policy. No one individual is dedicated solely to cycling policy.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions.
Tom Hayes
Question:81 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Transport his plans to reduce transport greenhouse gas emissions. [29726/06]
The National Climate Change Strategy (NCCS), published by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government in 2000, sets out Ireland's approach to meeting its Kyoto Protocol target of reducing national greenhouse gas emissions to 13% above 1990 levels by 2008-2012. A review of this document was published for public consultation in July 2006. The published Paper reviews the progress to date and also identifies a range of other measures, including measures in the transport sector, that might be considered for inclusion in the new Strategy which is to be published in the near future.
My Department is already pursuing a number of measures to control the growth of greenhouse gas emissions from transport, including a commitment to sustainability as a key objective in the Statement of Strategy 2005-2007.
Transport 21 will promote modal shift from private cars to public transport through significant rebalancing of investment in favour of public transport. The completion of projects identified in Transport 21 will see public transport capacity in the Greater Dublin Area almost double over its ten-year implementation period. In addition, major investment will take place in the national rail network, with improved and more frequent inter-city rail services, the development of the Western Rail Corridor and the Cork suburban rail network. There will also be significant investment in regional and local bus services.
Funding for a range of sustainable transport initiatives is also provided under Transport 21. The purpose of these initiatives is to facilitate the mainstreaming of sustainability criteria into transport investment decision-making and to make cleaner, more environmentally-friendly vehicles available, embracing public transport, the haulage industry and taxis. Pilot projects will be carried out to test the potential of biofuels, hybrid-electric technologies and eco-driving.
Technological developments can improve the fuel economy, and therefore emissions, of passenger cars. Ireland supports the EU Voluntary Agreements negotiated between the Commission and the car manufacturing industry to progressively reduce CO2 emissions from new passenger cars. Complementary to this, optimal vehicle operation enhances fuel efficiency. The National Car Test, which was introduced in 2000, facilitates improved vehicle maintenance.
Tackling transport emissions requires a cross-Departmental approach involving a number of Government Departments. I am determined to ensure that my Department will continue to play its part in ensuring that the transport sector makes its contribution to the important task of controlling national greenhouse gas emissions.
Question No. 82 answered with QuestionNo. 26.
Road Safety.
Dan Neville
Question:83 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether vehicles without rear seat belts should be permitted on the road. [29690/06]
Prior to 1 January 1992 it was not a requirement for the first registration of a passenger car for rear seats to be fitted with safety belts. There are no plans to prohibit the use on public roads of cars first registered prior to 1 January 1992 not having rear safety belts.
Question No. 84 answered with QuestionNo. 65.
Road Network.
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:85 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if a cost benefit analysis was undertaken in respect of the Port Tunnel; if so, the impact the cost and time over-runs had on this analysis; if he sought clarification on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29723/06]
At the outset, I should explain that overall responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the Dublin Port Tunnel, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned. I have no function in relation to the day-to-day operation of these projects.
As with all major infrastructure projects Cost Benefit Analysis was carried out by the NRA in line with Department of Finance investment appraisal guidelines. In light of traffic growth in the Dublin area in recent years there are no indications that the conclusions of that Cost Benefit Analysis have significantly altered. In line with Department of Finance guidelines, a post-completion Cost Benefit Analysis will be carried out in due course.
Question No. 86 answered with QuestionNo. 22.
Road Traffic Offences.
Jack Wall
Question:87 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport the action he is taking to make it easier for Gardaí to secure prosecutions for drug-driving. [30077/06]
The Road Traffic Acts provides that a member of the Garda Síochána may, where he or she is of the opinion that a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place is under the influence of a drug or drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of that vehicle, require that person to go to a Garda station and further require that person submit to a blood test or to provide a urine sample which will then be subject to analysis by the Medical Bureau of Road Safety.
The Medical Bureau of Road Safety continues to analyse blood and urine specimens received under the Road Traffic Acts for the presence of a drug or drugs. In 2004, 569 specimens were tested for the presence of a drugs or drugs. 354 specimens tested positive and 215 were found to be negative for the presence of a drug or drugs.
There is no feasible basis for the introduction of a scheme of preliminary roadside testing for drugs at present. However, screening devices based on oral fluid specimens are being developed for the purpose of carrying out roadside drug testing. Such testing devices are in prototype stages and the Medical Bureau of Road Safety is keeping abreast of developments in this area.
The Bureau undertook a two-year research programme of drug analysis of blood and urine samples in 2001 and 2002. The complete confirmatory results of the survey identifies trends in the types of drugs being taken, their combination with alcohol, and the incidence of polydrug use. The confirmation analysis of specimens continued in 2003 and the data collection and report was published in June 2004.
The study indicates that 15.7% of all tested drivers were positive for one or more drugs; that of the drivers who were under the limit for alcohol, 33.1% were positive for one or more drugs; and that of the drivers with very low or zero levels of alcohol, 67.9% were positive for drugs.
The offence of driving under the influence of an intoxicant to such an extent that the driver is incapable of having proper control of the vehicle attracts a disqualification of not less than 2 years in the case of a first offence, and, not less than 4 years in the case of a second or any subsequent offence. The courts can also impose a fine of up to €2,500 and/or 6 months in jail.
In the case of a 2 year disqualification a person can only apply for a review of the period after the expiry of 9 months and one year of the disqualification must be served. Where a disqualification order is made for a period of 4 years, the request for a review may not be made until a period of 21 months has expired and the period of disqualification cannot be reduced to less than 2 years.
Road Safety.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:88 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport the reason information on road collision rates by license status is not currently published in the annual statistics bulletin on road collisions; and the steps he has taken to ensure that this data as well as other vital data is recorded by Gardaí and published annually by the National Roads Authority and the Road Safety Authority. [30043/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:257 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the action which has been taken to correlate the reports of the Gardaí, the health services, the fire services, the local authority roads department and coroners with a view to identifying the precise cause or causes of road traffic accidents with the objective of addressing the issues involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30397/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 257 together.
The newly established Road Safety Authority intends to address the collection and collation of all relevant road safety data and statistics. The Authority will examine what information is currently available and what information is required on road traffic accidents from all the relevant Departments and Agencies, including the Gardaí. This may include the extension of the collection of data on matters raised by the Deputy. The Deputies' enquiry has been forwarded to the Road Safety Authority for direct reply.
Question No. 89 answered with QuestionNo. 12.
Taxi Regulations.
Eamon Ryan
Question:90 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the number of wheelchair accessible taxis working in the Dublin area; the expected timetable for the roll-out of more vehicles; and the provisions taxis will have to make for the carrying of children in view of the introduction of new rules regarding the seating of young children in motor vehicles. [29908/06]
The Taxi Regulation Act 2003 established the Commission for Taxi Regulation as the independent body responsible for the development and maintenance of the regulatory framework for the control and operation of small public service vehicles, including taxis, and their drivers. One of the specific objectives given to the Commission in the 2003 Act is to promote access to small public service vehicles by people with disabilities.
The Commission for Taxi Regulation has published a detailed Action Plan 2006-2007, Driving Forward, which sets out a range of changes the Commission proposes to make over the next two years in relation to the control and regulation of taxis, hackneys and limousines and their drivers. Among the specific proposals being developed by the Commission are measures aimed at improving accessibility. I understand that a further consultation process will be undertaken later this year by the Commission in relation to vehicle standards, with a particular emphasis on improving accessibility.
My Department's Sectoral Plan for Accessible Transport under the Disability Act 2006 was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas on the 20th of July 2006, as required by the Act. The Plan sets out a programme for action on accessibility in a number of key transport areas, including the taxi and hackney sector. The plan in particular sets out actions for increasing the accessibility, availability and affordability of small public service vehicles for people with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairments. These actions will be progressed by the Commission for Taxi Regulation in consultation with the Department of Transport and disability organisations.
Data in relation to the overall number of taxis licensed to operate and the percentage of that total that are wheelchair accessible taxis would be available from the Commission for Taxi Regulation.
On 5 May 2006 I made Regulations entitled the European Communities (Compulsory Use of Safety Belts and Child Restraint Systems in Motor Vehicles) Regulations 2006 transposing into Irish law Directive 2003/20/EC relating to the compulsory wearing of safety belts and child restraint systems in motor vehicles.
The Directive provides that, in general, children who are less than 150 centimetres in height and 36 kilograms in weight must be restrained by an appropriate child restraint when travelling in cars and goods vehicles. The Directive gives Member States the option to allow children to travel without child restraints in the rear of small public service vehicles if restraints are not available. In allowing for such arrangements, the Directive recognises that child restraint systems come in a number of different weight classes and that it would not be reasonable to expect drivers of these vehicles to always have the appropriate child restraint available in their vehicles. For that reason, in making the Regulations to transpose the Directive into Irish law, the option in the Directive permitting children to travel without child restraints in the rear of small public service vehicles was reluctantly exercised.
Notwithstanding the legal position, it would be my desire that owners of small public service vehicles would endeavour to provide child restraints in so far as it is practicable to do so. To that end, I have written to the Commissioner for Taxi Regulation requesting that he engage with the industry with a view to devising guidelines on best practice in relation to the carrying of children in small public service vehicles.
Question No. 91 answered with QuestionNo. 13.
Port Development.
Dinny McGinley
Question:92 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Transport if he will make a statement on the critical state of Lolo capacity at Irish ports; and when he envisages a decision on the outcome of the Fisher Review. [29708/06]
The Government's Ports Policy Statement, which I launched early last year, aims to better equip the port sector and its stakeholders to meet national and regional capacity and service needs. One of the key challenges that lie ahead is the provision of adequate in-time port capacity, particularly for unitised trade (LoLo and RoRo). The Policy Statement sets out a framework to ensure that capacity needs are identified, planned and progressed in a coordinated manner.
As part of this process, my Department appointed in September 2005 a firm of consultants expert in this field, Fisher Associates, to help determine whether the anticipated capacity requirement to 2014 and beyond can be efficiently and adequately met through the successful advancement and implementation by the port sector of some combination of the various proposals currently under development in the sector.
Detailed submissions outlining proposals for new capacity for unitised trade were received from the following ports and evaluated by Fisher Associates: Cork, Greenore, Dublin, Drogheda, Rosslare, Shannon Foynes and Waterford.
The final report of Fisher Associates was completed in June 2006 and its conclusions were noted by the Government in July 2006. It is intended to publish the broad conclusions of the report in an Information Paper shortly, which will be available on my Department's website at www.transport.ie.
In summary, the study concludes that there is currently significant available capacity for LoLo traffic at Irish ports. Current available capacity for RoRo traffic also exists, although less so than in the case of LoLo. The conclusions of the study clearly demonstrate that the projects being progressed by the ports sector have the potential to deliver adequate capacity going forward, in line with the Government's Ports Policy.
I can assure the Deputy that my Department will closely monitor the progress of these proposals, and for its part will certainly do what is necessary to ensure the statutory and other corporate governance requirements are dealt with expeditiously. If there is a sound business case for these projects, both the Minister and Minister for Finance as shareholders in the State owned port companies will be positively disposed towards them.
While the Government, both as shareholder and policy maker, has a clear interest in ensuring the provision of adequate, cost effective port capacity going forward, the development of the necessary capital projects is primarily a matter for the individual port companies and their boards. This is in line with the commercial mandate given to the port companies under the Harbours Act 1996.
Traffic Regulations.
Damien English
Question:93 Mr. English asked the Minister for Transport when the long promised national height restriction for lorries will be implemented. [29688/06]
There is currently no height limit for goods vehicles in Ireland. However, I am considering the introduction of a height limit for vehicles taking account of more recent discussions with stakeholders. I expect to make a decision in this matter shortly.
Light Rail Project.
John Perry
Question:94 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport if he has set a date for signing the railway order for the Luas Red Line Point Depot extension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29722/06]
I would refer the Deputy to my reply of yesterday to Dáil Question No. 1087 in the same matter: "The Public Inquiry into the Railway Procurement Agency's (RPA) application for a Railway Order for a Luas extension of the Red Line from Connolly Station to the Point Depot concluded on 2 June 2006 and the Inspector's report on that Inquiry was published on 6 August 2006. I am currently considering the Inspector's report and all other relevant documentation in relation to the RPA's application with a view to making a decision on this matter in due course."
Road Safety.
Mary Upton
Question:95 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to bring all of the provisions of the Road Safety Act 2006 into force. [30061/06]
All of the provisions of the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 came into force when it was enacted. The Road Safety Authority was established on the 1 September 2006 by the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Establishment Day) Order 2006 (S.I. No 462 of 2006) made pursuant to section 2 of the Act. The functions to be carried out by the Road Safety Authority are specified in the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) made under section 4 of the Act.
Road Traffic Offences.
Dan Boyle
Question:96 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport the reason the Garda PULSE system and the database of penalty points have not been properly linked; and the reason a company (details supplied) is still processing penalty point offences following notification of the abandonment of its involvement some weeks ago. [29910/06]
When the penalty point system was introduced in 2002 the company referred to was engaged to convert data received in manual format from an Garda Síochána to electronic format for transmission to the Vehicle Registration Unit of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government for recording on an individual's licence record in the National Driver File.
When the Garda Fixed Charge Processing System became fully operational in April this year a process of converting over to a direct electronic transfer of data from an Garda Síochána to the National Driver File was put in place. For technical reasons the direct transfer could not take place until all manual receipts generated by the former manual receipt system operated by the Gardaí had been dealt with. This process is now almost complete and I understand that direct electronic transfer of data from an Garda Síochána to the National Driver File will commence shortly.
There is no direct link between the Garda PULSE system and the penalty point database as it is not necessary for a Garda to know how many penalty points are on a person's record. Where a person reaches 12 points and is disqualified the Gardaí are notified and this information is entered on the PULSE system.
Motor Taxation.
Pat Breen
Question:97 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport the progress he has made in dealing with the obstacles to imposing a punitive tax on SUVs. [29686/06]
I have no function in relation to the taxation of motor vehicles.
Road Traffic Offences.
Gerard Murphy
Question:98 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the guidelines issued to Gardaí for the operation of mandatory alcohol testing. [29713/06]
I have no function in relation to this matter.
Question No. 99 answered with QuestionNo. 12.
Question No. 100 answered with QuestionNo. 19.
Question No. 101 answered with QuestionNo. 26.
State Airports.
Bernard Allen
Question:102 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Transport if he has made representations to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to ensure that the immigration booths are adequately manned to meet the demand created by arrivals at Dublin Airport. [29707/06]
The manning of immigration booths at Dublin Airport is a matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) in the first instance and I have no function in the matter. I understand that regular meetings take place between the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) and the GNIB, to review any potential issues that may arise concerning the immigration service at the airport and to put the necessary solutions in place.
In this regard I understand that meetings have been held between both bodies to ensure that a full complement of immigration booths is available at key times.
With regard to the future, I understand that it is envisaged that when Pier D becomes operational in 2007 a new integrated GNIB facility will be provided, which will deliver an increased number of GNIB booths to service Piers A and D.
Question No. 103 answered with QuestionNo. 6.
Rail Network.
Billy Timmins
Question:104 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport the plans Irish Rail has to construct an under or over bridge on the rail line north of Wicklow Town to facilitate the development of the port road; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30081/06]
This is a day-to-day operational matter for the company concerned and not one in which I have a function.
Taxi Regulations.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:105 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport the basis for the exemption of taxis from the new rules on child seatbelts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30055/06]
The basis for the exemption contained in the European Communities (Compulsory Use of Safety Belts and Child Restraints Systems in Motor Vehicles) Regulations 2006 permitting children to travel without child restraints in the rear of small public service vehicles (i.e. taxis, hackneys and limousines) if appropriate child restraints are not available is provided for in Directive 2003/20/EC relating to the compulsory wearing of safety belts and child restraints. The Directive gives Member States the option to allow children to travel without child restraints in the rear of small public service vehicles if restraints are not available. In allowing for such arrangements, the Directive recognises that child restraint systems come in a number of different weight classes and that it would not be reasonable to expect drivers of these vehicles to always have the appropriate child restraint available in their vehicles. For that reason, in making the Regulations to transpose the Directive into Irish law, the option in the Directive permitting children to travel without child restraints in the rear of small public service vehicles was reluctantly exercised.
Notwithstanding the legal position, it would be my desire and that of the Road Safety Authority that owners of small public service vehicles would endeavour to provide child restraints in so far as it is practicable to do so. To that end, the Commissioner for Taxi Regulation has been requested to engage with the industry with a view to devising guidelines on best practice in relation to the carrying of children in small public service vehicles.
Question No. 106 answered with QuestionNo. 21.
Road Safety.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:107 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport when he expects to publish a new rules of the road booklet; his plans to improve other information for drivers on road traffic law and driver training material. [30054/06]
The current Rules of the Road Booklet was first published in June 1995. My Department has been working on the revision of that publication. There has been a very considerable amount of work involved in that many significant changes in the overall area of road traffic law have to be reflected in the revised booklet. The draft document was placed on the Department's website for consultation in June 2006.
Submissions received have now been considered and a draft of the new booklet is being finalised for transmission within the next few weeks to the Road Safety Authority for design and publication.
Design and printing will of itself take a number of weeks to complete but the updated document will be made available on the Department's website during this period.
In addition to the new booklet being made available for sale, it will also be made available on-line by the Road Safety Authority. The Authority will ensure that, in the future, the booklet will provide up-to-date information on changes in traffic law and other requirements on an ongoing basis.
With regards to driver training material, the Road Safety Authority, which has taken over responsibility for the functions of the National Safety Council in relation to advertising, education and recommendations regarding road safety policy, launched the "Better, Safer, Driver" campaign in April 2006, which seeks to educate road users on various aspects within the rules of the road booklet.
Road Traffic Offences.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:108 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to ensure that non-resident drivers do not escape punishment for road traffic offences. [30044/06]
I am conscious that enforcing penalties on non-resident drivers raises many legal, organisational and procedural issues which make it very difficult for any one State to enforce such penalties. For that reason, my Department is pursuing this question at the European, British/Irish and North/South levels where mutual recognition and cross border enforcement possibilities are being considered.
Garda Operations.
Joe Costello
Question:109 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the costs incurred on security by the Garda Síochána in relation to the holding the Ryder Cup competition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30269/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the total cost of the 2006 Ryder Cup to the Garda Síochána will not be available until all expenditure claims have been processed, which will take some time.
I will be in separate contact with the Deputy in due course when these figures are available.
Departmental Transport.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:110 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Ministers who have taken delivery of hybrid or clean energy cars; if he has requested or obtained such a vehicle; the plans he and the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Minister for Transport are developing for public sector clean energy fleets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30339/06]
Ministerial State cars are placed at the disposal of Government Ministers and others pursuant to a long standing arrangement and are supplied to the following:
President
Taoiseach
Tánaiste
13 Government Ministers
Chief Whip
Ceann Comhairle
Attorney General
Director of Public Prosecutions
Chief Justice
Former Taoisigh & Presidents
A total of 5 Lexus GS 450H Hybrid vehicles have been procured this year for the Ministerial Fleet. Hybrid vehicles have significantly better fuel consumption and significantly reduced emissions compared to equivalent petrol models.
All the cars in the Ministerial Fleet are petrol driven models with the exception of the 5 Lexus Hybrid models which are electric/petrol combination vehicles. Factors such as fuel efficiency and safety are taken into account in making purchases for the Ministerial Fleet.
Garda Operations.
Tony Gregory
Question:111 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will request a report from the Garda authorities on the steps they are taking in response to the vandalism to cars and other anti-social behaviours in the West Road area of East Wall, Dublin 3, particularly in the early hours of Saturday and Sunday; the number of arrests made and persons charged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30207/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda management has put an initiative in place in the area concerned, whereby additional Gardaí are deployed over two tours per day on two dedicated beats. This ensures a concentrated and visible Garda presence in the area. These patrols are in addition to the normal complement of community Gardaí permanently allocated to this area. In addition, a dedicated patrol van with uniformed Gardaí patrols the area between 8 pm and 5 am every Friday and Saturday night. These patrols are backed up by the Divisional Crime Task Force, District Detective Units and the Divisional Drug Units which also actively patrol the area.
I am further informed that Operation Assist, which provides additional patrols by Garda Mounted and Dog Units in support of District and Divisional Units, is also in place in the area since 1 August, 2006.
I understand that seven persons have been arrested and charged with a total of 157 offences of the type referred to. Bail has been granted subject to strict conditions, including curfews, which are closely monitored by the Gardaí. There is also ongoing liaison between local Garda management and the local authority in the enforcement of the provisions of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2002.
I am advised that the Community Policing Unit maintains regular contact with residents of the East Wall area through the Neighbourhood Watch scheme. Local Garda management will continue to monitor the policing situation in the area concerned, ensuring that it receives regular and ongoing attention.
Garda Vetting Services.
Paul Kehoe
Question:112 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when Garda vetting will be extended to all workers involved in the childcare sector, private and community based; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30208/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, the Garda Central Vetting Unit is currently engaged in a phased expansion of its vetting service to ensure that all organisations in the child and vulnerable adult care sectors are in receipt of vetting for their personnel.
This expansion process is being overseen by a multi-agency Implementation Group on Garda Vetting, and it involves a structured and negotiated engagement with all relevant State and non-State sectors. In this regard, the Childcare Directorate of the Office of the Minister for Children is represented on the Implementation Group.
The Childcare Directorate is responsible for the implementation of the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 and the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010, which are major investment programmes to develop a quality childcare infrastructure through the provision of grant assistance to both private and community-based childcare providers.
I understand that discussions are ongoing with relevant stakeholders with a view to agreeing modalities for the expansion of the GCVU's vetting service to private and community-based childcare providers. I am not in a position at this stage to indicate when these negotiations may be concluded.
Residency Permits.
John Curran
Question:113 Mr. Curran asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he intends to make a decision regarding an application for permission to remain in the State made by a person (details supplied) in County Dublin. [30209/06]
I understand the Immigration Division of my Department has been in correspondence with the person concerned. Upon receipt of the documentation requested, a decision will be made on the application.
Foreign Adoptions.
Mary Upton
Question:114 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the matter of foreign adoptions will be progressed; the reason there is an ongoing delay in processing adoption applications from Belarus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30210/06]
Lead responsibility for the management of foreign adoptions rests with the Adoption Board.
Garda Strength.
Tony Gregory
Question:115 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number and rank of community gardaí in Store Street Garda Station, Dublin now and in September 2005; the number specifically assigned to the East Wall area of Dublin 3; and if gardaí on mountain bikes are available. [30225/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the number and rank of community Gardaí in Store Street Garda Station as at 30 September, 2005 and as at 27 September, 2006 was as set out in the following table;
|
Store Street |
30/09/2005 |
27/09/2006 |
|
Inspector |
1 |
1 |
|
Sergeant |
2 |
2 |
|
Garda |
24 |
21 |
|
Total |
27 |
24 |
Local Garda Management state that there are four (4) Community Gardaí specifically assigned to the East Wall area. In addition there are six (6) Mountain Bikes deployed on operational duties in Store Street Garda Station of which three (3) exclusively patrol the East Wall area.
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 three groups of newly attested Gardaí under this accelerated recruitment programme came on stream in March, June and September of this year and the fourth such group will become fully attested members of the Force later this year. 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 Store Street Garda Station will be given the fullest consideration.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:116 Mr. Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30237/06]
My Department and its associated bodies will utilise the financial resources allocated to it by the Government in 2006 to the maximum extent possible in the delivery of public services in the Justice and Equality Sector.
Visa Applications.
Billy Timmins
Question:117 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30253/06]
The application referred to by the Deputy was received in the Visa Office on 13th September, 2006. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the visa application in question was approved on 25th September, 2006.
Brendan Howlin
Question:118 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for visa under the family re-unification scheme in respect of a person (details supplied) who have resided here for many years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30254/06]
The application referred to by the Deputy is currently being examined in my Department and a decision will be made shortly.
Road Traffic Offences.
Brendan Howlin
Question:119 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the introduction of random breath testing of motorists, he will determine and provide details of Garda policy in relation to breath testing of drivers involved in road traffic accidents; if the policy is that all such drivers are to be breath tested at the accident scene; and, if not, the reason for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30255/06]
Section 4 of the Road Traffic Act 2006 provides the legal basis for mandatory alcohol testing (MAT). MAT checkpoints may be established only under written authorisation of a member of An Garda Síochána not below the rank of Inspector. An authorisation shall be in writing and shall specify the date on which, and the public place in which, the checkpoint is to be established and the hours at any time between which it is operated.
Section 4 confers a statutory power to administer the breathalyser to a motorist stopped at a MAT checkpoint without a member of An Garda Síochána being required to form an opinion that the motorist has consumed alcohol, been involved in a collision or breached a provision of the Road Traffic Acts.
This statutory power is without prejudice to any powers conferred on a member of An Garda Síochána by statute or at common law. These include the power under section 12 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 (as inserted by the Road Traffic Act 2003) to require a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place to provide a breath specimen where in the opinion of a member of An Garda Síochána, the person, inter alia, is or has, with the vehicle, been involved in a collision.
As this power is discretionary, any policy to breathalyse all drivers involved in road traffic collisions would restrict the exercise of a discretionary power.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that it is their policy to make the fullest use of all legislative powers in investigating the commission of offences, including road traffic offences.
Brendan Howlin
Question:120 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Garda recording of changed car ownership is several months in arrears and that as a result fixed penalty fine notices are being issued by Gardaí to former rather than current car owners where ownership has changed and that former owners receiving such notices are required to complete a ceased to be owner form for the Garda on each occasion when a fixed penalty fine is issued; his views on whether out of date Garda records could impede proper identification of victims in the event of road accidents involving cars with changed ownership; the reason the Garda does not access the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government’s up to date records of car ownership changes pending improvement in their own records; if he will discuss this waste of Garda resources, and inconvenience to the public, with Garda authorities with a view to remedying the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30256/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that vehicle ownership records are provided on a weekly basis by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government to An Garda Síochána. Change of ownership details are provided as part of this procedure. A difficulty has been identified with the transfer of details in a number of change of ownership cases. This difficulty has been notified to the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and a change to the Department's system is currently being developed and tested.
I am also informed that parallel with this a programme of remedial work is being undertaken by An Garda Síochána to identify and update any change of ownership cases that could not previously be processed. An Garda Síochána is working with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government to resolve the situation as a matter of priority.
Legislative Programme.
Denis Naughten
Question:121 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to introduce a Family Law Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30258/06]
A general scheme of a Family Law Bill is currently being prepared by my Department. Details, when approved by Government, will be announced in the normal way.
Citizenship Applications.
Gay Mitchell
Question:122 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will arrange for a thorough review of the application of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15 for naturalisation. [30319/06]
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended, provides that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. Those conditions are that the applicant must
be of full age, or by way of exception, be a minor born in the State
be of good character
have had a period of one year's continuous residency in the State immediately before the date of the application and, during the eight years immediately preceding that period, have had a total residence in the State amounting to four years
intend in good faith to continue to reside in the State after naturalisation
have made, either before a Judge of the District Court in open court or in such a manner as the Minister, for special reasons allows, a declaration in the prescribed manner, of fidelity to the nation and loyalty to the State.
In the context of naturalisation, certain periods of residence in the State are excluded. These include periods of residence in respect of which an applicant does not have permission to remain in the State, periods granted for the purposes of study and periods granted for the purposes of seeking recognition as a refugee within the meaning of the Refugee Act, 1996.
The person referred to in the Deputy's question arrived in the State in 1994 for study purposes and his permission to remain was granted on that basis until September 2002. Reckonable residency for the purpose of naturalisation commenced after that date. Consequently when he submitted his application for a certificate of naturalisation to the Citizenship section of my Department on 8 December 2003, he did not satisfy the statutory residency conditions and was deemed ineligible to apply. His legal advisors were advised of this on 1 March 2006. It will be open to the person in question to submit a fresh application as soon as he satisfies the statutory conditions applicable at that time.
Gay Mitchell
Question:123 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will arrange for a thorough review of the application of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 14 for naturalisation. [30320/06]
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended, provides that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. Those conditions are that the applicant must be of full age, or by way of exception, be a minor born in the State; be of good character; have had a period of one year's continuous residency in the State immediately before the date of the application and, during the eight years immediately preceding that period, have had a total residence in the State amounting to four years; intend in good faith to continue to reside in the State after naturalisation; and have made, either before a Judge of the District Court in open court or in such a manner as the Minister, for special reasons allows, a declaration in the prescribed manner, of fidelity to the nation and loyalty to the State.
In the context of naturalisation, certain periods of residence in the State are excluded. These include periods of residence in respect of which an applicant does not have permission to remain in the State, periods granted for the purposes of study and periods granted for the purposes of seeking recognition as a refugee within the meaning of the Refugee Act, 1996. The person referred to in the Deputy's question arrived in the State in 1995 for study purposes and his permission to remain was granted on that basis until September 2002. Reckonable residency for the purpose of naturalisation commenced after that date. Consequently when he submitted his application for a certificate of naturalisation to the Citizenship section of my Department on 8 January 2004, he did not satisfy the statutory residency conditions and was deemed ineligible to apply. His legal advisors were advised of this on 31 March 2006. It will be open to the person in question to submit a fresh application once he satisfies the statutory conditions applicable at that time.
Garda Stations.
Billy Timmins
Question:124 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to provide a new Garda station in Greystones, County Wicklow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30321/06]
The Garda Authorities have recommended that a new station be provided for Greystones and I have accepted this advice. Accordingly, Greystones Garda station is included for development under the Garda Building Programme. To this end, the Office of Public Works has been requested to consider the options available, including the possibility of acquiring a new site, to advance the project. When the OPW report on the options for development is received consideration will then be given on how best to further progress the project. I should add that, as with all stations on the Garda Building Programme, progress in relation to a specific development is dependent on overall agreed priorities.
Asylum Applications.
Gerard Murphy
Question:125 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person (details supplied) in County Cork can remain in the State on humanitarian grounds; the status of application; if he will make a decision on the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30322/06]
The person concerned, a Nigerian national, arrived in the State on 19 June, 2003 and applied for asylum. Her application was deemed withdrawn and subsequently refused by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner on 26 September, 2003. In accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, the person concerned was informed on 14 October, 2003 that the Minister was proposing to make a deportation order in respect of her. She was, in accordance with the Act, given the option of making representations, within 15 working days, setting out the reasons why she should not be deported i.e. be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before the deportation order was made; or consenting to the making of the deportation order. She applied on 24 March, 2005 for permission to remain in the State on the basis of parentage of an Irish born child born before 1 January, 2005; her application was refused on 7 December, 2005. Representations setting out reasons why she should not be deported were subsequently received. On 7 September, 2006 the applicant was again notified that the Minister was proposing to make a deportation order in respect of her.
I expect the case file in this matter to be submitted to me for decision in due course. This decision will be taken having regard to considerations specified in section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended. These considerations include matters relating to the common good, the person's family and domestic circumstances, as well as humanitarian considerations. Consideration will also be given to the prohibition of refoulement which is contained in section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended.
Gerard Murphy
Question:126 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person (details supplied) in County Cork can remain in the State on humanitarian grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30323/06]
The person concerned arrived in the State on the 20 August, 2005 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of the case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and on appeal by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, the applicant was informed by letter dated 12 June, 2006, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned. A decision on this case has been made by me in the last few days and will be communicated to the person concerned as soon as possible.
Gerard Murphy
Question:127 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application to remain here on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30324/06]
The person in question made an application for permission to remain in the State under the revised arrangements announced by me on 15 January 2005 for the processing of applications from the non-national parents of Irish born children born before 1 January 2005. As stated in my announcement, the closing date for the submission of applications for consideration under the revised arrangements was 31 March 2005. The person in question's application was received on 5 May 2005 and therefore, too late for consideration. She was informed on 29 November 2005 that her application for leave to remain could not be considered under the revised arrangements. Judicial Review proceedings were instituted on 20 February 2006 and accordingly, as the matter is sub judice I do not propose to comment further on the matter.
Gerard Murphy
Question:128 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the right to remain application of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30325/06]
It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications. As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted. A final decision on this application will be made upon receipt of the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Garda Transport.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:129 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of marked cars, unmarked cars, vans, lorries, motorbikes and other vehicles by category, currently available for use by the Garda. [30360/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that the total number of vehicles by category in the Garda Fleet, excluding vehicles in the Ministerial Fleet, is as set out in the following tables:
|
Cars |
Vans |
Bikes |
4x4’s |
M/Buses |
Lorries |
Total |
|
571 |
147 |
199 |
57 |
40 |
6 |
1,020 |
|
Cars |
Vans |
Bikes |
4x4’s |
M/Buses |
Lorries |
Total |
|
963 |
100 |
21 |
34 |
16 |
0 |
1,134 |
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 three groups of newly attested Gardaí under this accelerated recruitment programme came on stream in March, June and September of this year and the fourth such group will become fully attested members of the Force later this year. 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 Divisions will be given the fullest consideration.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:130 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of bicycles and other non-mechanical modes of transport available for use by the Garda. [30361/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the current Garda Mountain Bike fleet comprises 168 bikes, eleven (11) of which are allocated to the training function, the remainder of which (157) are deployed nationally on operational duties. There are currently twelve (12) horses attached to the Garda Mounted Unit. 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 three groups of newly attested Gardaí under this accelerated recruitment programme came on stream in March, June and September of this year and the fourth such group will become fully attested members of the Force later this year. 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 Divisions will be given the fullest consideration.
Garda Deployment.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:131 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide a breakdown of the Garda stations that are permanently manned, those that are temporarily manned and those that operate a green man system; the opening hours for each; the number and rank of the Gardaí attached to each; and the resources available to each in terms of personal protective equipment, communications equipment, mechanically propelled vehicles and civilian staff. [30362/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms. A list of all Garda stations by Division is available on the Garda website (www.garda.ie). All divisional and district headquarters are open on a twenty four (24) hour basis.
The personnel strength (all ranks) of each Garda Division throughout the country, as at 25 September, 2006, was as set out in the following table:
|
Division |
Strength |
|
Carlow/Kildare |
363 |
|
Cavan/Monaghan |
381 |
|
Clare |
320 |
|
Cork City |
629 |
|
Cork North |
256 |
|
Cork West |
257 |
|
D.M.R. Eastern |
571 |
|
D.M.R. North Central |
647 |
|
D.M.R. North |
617 |
|
D.M.R. South Central |
720 |
|
D.M.R. South |
582 |
|
D.M.R. West |
693 |
|
Donegal |
441 |
|
Galway West |
396 |
|
Kerry |
288 |
|
Laois/Offaly |
285 |
|
Limerick |
512 |
|
Longford/Westmeath |
266 |
|
Louth/Meath |
542 |
|
Mayo |
273 |
|
Roscommon/Galway East |
257 |
|
Sligo/Leitrim |
282 |
|
Tipperary |
338 |
|
Waterford/Kilkenny |
369 |
|
Wexford/Wicklow |
341 |
I want to see Gardaí provided with all necessary equipment up to best international practice. This is not just an aspiration. I am providing and will continue to provide the necessary resources for this to happen. In relation to protective equipment generally, I am of the view that in facing the dangers that they do on our streets members of the Force need protective and defensive equipment commensurate with that risk. In that regard, I wish to inform the Deputy that in relation to "Body Armour", the Garda Síochána, has issued Requests for Tender (RFTs) for the supply and delivery of 12,500 Anti Stab/Ballistic Vests and 3,000 Retractable Batons. There is also a provision in these RFTs to purchase a further 4,700 vests and a further 12,000 Batons, if required, over the duration of the contract. Contracts are due to be signed in the very near future for the supply of these items and it is expected that the delivery will commence shortly thereafter.
An Garda Síochána constantly evaluate all available technology with a view to determining the technology best suited to their needs. Significant resources are being invested in technology for the Gardaí to assist them in the exercise of all their functions. The capital allocation for IT in 2006 is €33.323 million representing an increase of €5.065 (18%) on the 2005 outturn. One aspect of technology I am particularly committed to is the delivery of a state-of-the-art digital radio service for An Garda Síochána. To this end, the procurement of an outsourced Managed Service by the Department of Finance on behalf of An Garda Síochána, other blue light services and some non-commercial public bodies, is well underway. While the exact timeframe for roll-out will be subject to contract negotiations with the successful bidder, the implementation of the new service is planned to commence later this year. The total allocation for communications for 2006 is €12.9 million.
I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that the total number of vehicles by category in the Garda Fleet, excluding vehicles in the Ministerial Fleet, is as set out in the tables hereunder:
|
Cars |
Vans |
Bikes |
4x4’s |
M/Buses |
Lorries |
Total |
|
571 |
147 |
199 |
57 |
40 |
6 |
1,020 |
|
Cars |
Vans |
Bikes |
4x4’s |
M/Buses |
Lorries |
Total |
|
963 |
100 |
21 |
34 |
16 |
0 |
1,134 |
As regards civilian resources, there are already over 1,850 civilians working with An Garda Síochána, including approximately 835 (whole time equivalent) clerical support staff in Garda stations across the country, in Garda HQ and in National Support Services in Harcourt Square. I should add that I have this week received formal sanction from the Minister for Finance for an additional 76 civilian clerical and administrative support staff to be distributed around the country. These will be recruited at the earliest opportunity. In addition, I should mention the Garda Information Service Centre (GISC) in Castlebar, which is now almost fully operational with some 150 civilian staff now employed there out of a sanctioned total of 160. Recruitment of the remaining staff is currently under way. The GISC allows Gardaí who would otherwise have to return to their Stations to input data on the PULSE system, to log the information with the GISC, while remaining on the beat. This frees up very significant amounts of Garda time for continued operational duty. The Garda authorities are already considering what other tasks could be devolved to the GISC which would release additional Garda resources to front-line policing. The more detailed information sought by the Deputy requires compilation and I will write to the Deputy as soon as, and to the extent to which, the information is available.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:132 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the estimated cost of the provision of Garda resources at the Ryder Cup. [30363/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that following negotiations between the Ryder Cup organisation and An Garda Síochána it was agreed that an amount of €1.7m would be paid by that organisation towards the cost of policing the 2006 Ryder Cup. An invoice for €850,000, being the first instalment due, has recently issued by the Garda authorities to the Ryder Cup organisation. A project code was established by An Garda Síochána to capture the costs associated with the policing of the 2006 Ryder Cup. A total costing of this event will not be available until all expenditure claims have been processed. Due to the large volume of claims involved and the fact that the Ryder Cup only concluded on Sunday last, 24 September, it will be a number of weeks before this information is to hand.
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 three groups of newly attested Gardaí under this accelerated recruitment programme came on stream in March, June and September of this year and the fourth such group will become fully attested members of the Force later this year. 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 Divisions will be given the fullest consideration.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:133 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the level of resources currently allocated to the Garda national immigration bureau at each of the State’s airports; his views on whether the resources are adequate; his plans to crease such resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30364/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms. I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that one hundred and sixty-five (165) members of an Garda Síochána and thirty-six (36) civilian staff are currently attached to the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB). Seventy-seven (77) Garda members of the GNIB are assigned to Dublin Airport. A further ten (10) are assigned to immigration control duties at Dún Laoghaire Port. In addition, there are a total of 455 other members of An Garda Síochána, 253 full-time and 202 on a part-time basis, appointed as Immigration officers and engaged on immigration control duties at the land border with Northern Ireland and at other Ports of Entry to the State, other than Dublin Airport and Dún Laoghaire Port. These members are Divisional resources in the Garda Division where the land border or Port of Entry is located. An additional pier is under construction at Dublin Airport and is to be completed by late 2007, while a proposed second terminal is expected to be operational in the second half of 2009. Enhanced immigration facilities will be a feature in both terminals and Garda management at the GNIB will liaise with the Dublin Airport Authority in this regard. The allocation of resources to immigration control duties is regularly reviewed and monitored by senior Garda management.
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 three groups of newly attested Gardaí under this accelerated recruitment programme came on stream in March, June and September of this year and the fourth such group will become fully attested members of the Force later this year. 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 GNIB will be given the fullest consideration.
Garda Investigations.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:134 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the investigation into the death of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30365/06]
I refer the Deputy to my response to Parliamentary Question No. 206 of 28 June 2006. The position remains unchanged.
Proposed Legislation.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:135 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to implement the remaining sections of the Children Act 2001; if he will provide a timetable for the coming into force of those sections, including when he envisages that the whole Act will be in force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30366/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Questions Numbers 388 and 389 of Wednesday, 27 September 2006. The position remains unchanged.
Garda Deployment.
Joe Higgins
Question:136 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost to the Garda of policing the Ryder Cup; and if moneys have been paid to the State by the organisation responsible for organising the Ryder Cup.. [30368/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that following negotiations between the Ryder Cup organisation and An Garda Síochána it was agreed that an amount of €1.7m would be paid by that organisation towards the cost of policing the 2006 Ryder Cup. An invoice for €850,000, being the first instalment due, has recently issued by the Garda authorities to the Ryder Cup organisation. A project code was established by An Garda Síochána to capture the costs associated with the policing of the 2006 Ryder Cup. A total costing of this event will not be available until all expenditure claims have been processed. Due to the large volume of claims involved and the fact that the Ryder Cup only concluded on Sunday last, 24 September, it will be a number of weeks before this information is to hand.
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 three groups of newly attested Gardaí under this accelerated recruitment programme came on stream in March, June and September of this year and the fourth such group will become fully attested members of the Force later this year. 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 Divisions will be given the fullest consideration.
Garda Investigations.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:137 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to the request for an inquiry into the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30369/06]
The person referred to alleges that serious offences were perpetrated against her and other persons over a prolonged period. On 26 July, 2006 a meeting took place which included the person referred to, her legal representatives and officials of my Department. At the meeting the legal representatives of the person referred to handed over a substantial dossier of documents to the officials. The officials indicated that the dossier would be carefully considered. As part of that process the dossier has been forwarded to the Garda authorities for examination and report. The process of consideration is continuing and on completion officials of my Department will be in contact with the person's legal representatives.
Garda Training.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:138 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of recruit gardaí who completed their training and became full members of the Garda in each of the years 2002 to 2005; and the number of gardaí who for one reason or other ceased to be members during each of those years.. [30370/06]
The Garda authorities are compiling the detailed information requested by the Deputy and I will forward these details to the Deputy shortly.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:139 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will offer extended residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30371/06]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 70 of Thursday, 15 June, 2006 and the written reply to that Question. The position is unchanged.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:140 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for temporary residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30372/06]
The person concerned arrived in the State on the 6 January, 2003 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of the case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and on appeal by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, the applicant was informed by letter dated 31 August, 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15, working days of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made or consenting to the making of a deportation order. This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement), as amended. I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:141 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be given leave to remain here for an extended period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30373/06]
I would refer the Deputy to my replies to his Dáil Questions Nos. 190 of 1 June 2006 and 336 of 27 September 2006. The status of the person concerned is as set out in my reply of 27 September 2006.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:142 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will grant extended temporary residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30374/06]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 9 May, 2005 and applied for asylum. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 12 June, 2006, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned. This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement). I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:143 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15. [30375/06]
The person in question made a Family Reunification application on behalf of his wife in November 2004 and his 2 children in May 2005. These applications were forwarded to the Refugee Applications Commissioner for investigation as required under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996. These investigations are completed and the Commissioner has forwarded a report to my Department. Applications of this type are dealt with in chronological order. These applications are currently under consideration by my Department and decisions will issue in due course.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:144 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30376/06]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 248 of Thursday, 25 May, 2006 and the written reply to that Question. The position is unchanged.
Visa Applications.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:145 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare can update their visa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30377/06]
I understand the Immigration Division of my Department has been in correspondence with the person concerned regarding his immigration status in the State. Upon receipt of the documentation requested, a decision will be made on the application.
Garda Deployment.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:146 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the numbers of Gardaí assigned to Coolock, Raheny and Howth Garda stations for the years 1998 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [30378/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have been further informed that the number of Gardaí (all ranks) attached to Howth, Raheny and Coolock Garda Stations as at 31 December, 1998 -2005 (inclusive) and as at 27 September, 2006 are as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Station |
’98 |
’99 |
’00 |
’01 |
’02 |
’03 |
’04 |
’05 |
27/09/06 |
|
Howth |
34 |
35 |
37 |
39 |
41 |
42 |
44 |
49 |
44 |
|
Raheny |
59 |
61 |
63 |
61 |
64 |
60 |
66 |
59 |
67 |
|
Coolock |
89 |
93 |
89 |
85 |
84 |
87 |
84 |
88 |
95 |
The Garda stations referred to by the Deputy form part of the Dublin Metropolitan Region, North Division. I would point out that the Division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda National Units such as the Garda National Drugs Unit, the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and other specialised units.
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 three groups of newly attested Gardaí under this accelerated recruitment programme came on stream in March, June and September of this year and the fourth such group will become fully attested members of the Force later this year. 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 the Garda Stations referred to by the Deputy will be given the fullest consideration.
Sale of Fireworks.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:147 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the sections of the Criminal Justice Act, 2006 relating to fireworks are in effect and operational in the run-in to Halloween 2006. [30379/06]
I wish to inform the Deputy that on 1st August, 2006, I signed an order bringing into immediate effect a range of new sanctions against the illegal possession and use of fireworks provided for in the Criminal Justice Act 2006. These new provisions are as follows:
Possession of fireworks without a licence
€5,000 on summary conviction
€10,000 on conviction on indictment.
Igniting a firework in any place without a licence
€2,500 or 6 months imprisonment or both on summary conviction
€10,000 or 5 years imprisonment or both on conviction on indictment.
Throwing, directing or propelling an ignited firework at a person or property
€2,500 or 6 months imprisonment or both on summary conviction
€10,000 or 5 years imprisonment or both on conviction on indictment.
Possession of fireworks with intent to sell or supply, without a licence
€2,500 or 6 months imprisonment or both on summary conviction
€10,000 or 5 years imprisonment or both on conviction on indictment.
Asylum Applications.
John McGuinness
Question:148 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for family re-unification in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if he will expedite the matter. [30380/06]
I refer the Deputy to my answer given to his previous Parliamentary Question No. 552 of 6th July 2006. The Deputy will be aware that applications of this type are dealt with in chronological order. This application will be considered by my Department and a decision will issue in due course.
Crime Prevention.
Charlie O'Connor
Question:149 Mr. O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will report on progress towards the introduction of anti-social behaviour orders. [30408/06]
The Criminal Justice Act, 2006 contains provisions to deal with anti-social behaviour. The Act empowers a senior member of the Garda Síochána to apply to the District Court by way of a civil procedure for an order which will prohibit an adult from behaving in an anti-social manner. In relation to children aged 12 to 18 years, specially tailored provisions, fully integrated into the Children Act 2001, provide for a number of steps. These culminate in court orders for those engaged in anti-social behaviour.
The relevant provisions of the Criminal Justice Act, 2006 will be commenced following consultations between my Department, the Office of the Minister for Children and the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána. Section 1(3) of the Act makes specific provision to this effect. The purpose of this is to ensure that these provisions will only be commenced after the Commissioner has had the opportunity to make the necessary internal arrangements to ensure the smooth introduction of these new procedures.
I want to emphasise again that separate provision is being made in relation to young people. The Criminal Justice Act, 2006 introduces provisions for behaviour orders for children aged 12 to 18 years into the Children Act, 2001 and the protections of that Act will apply. There has to be a series of incremental stages, with parental involvement, preceding an application for a behaviour order. These include a warning, a good behaviour contract and referral to the Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme. Only after these stages can a behaviour order be sought through the Courts. In addition to new administrative procedures within the Garda Síochána, behaviour orders require changes to the existing Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme provided for in the Children Act, 2001.
Garda Operations.
Charlie O'Connor
Question:150 Mr. O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will report on the setting up of the Garda Reserve Force. [30409/06]
The Garda Síochána (Reserve Members) Regulations 2006 were approved by Government in July 2006. Following this, a nationwide advertising and recruitment campaign, for both Garda Reserve trainees and full-time Garda trainees, was launched on 14 August 2006. The recruitment campaign for full-time trainees closed on 19 September 2006. Recruitment for the Garda Reserve will continue indefinitely.
Recruitment for the Garda Reserve is being carried out by the Public Appointments Service. Applications are being accepted by both internet and phone. The total number of applicants for the Garda Reserve at 19 September was 6,661. A full county by county analysis of internet applications is not yet available from the Public Appointments Service. However, of the 3,664 phone applications, the breakdown by county is as set out in the table below.
|
Number |
|
|
Carlow |
57 |
|
Cavan |
62 |
|
Clare |
112 |
|
Cork |
376 |
|
Donegal |
104 |
|
Dublin |
907 |
|
Galway |
195 |
|
Kerry |
115 |
|
Kildare |
180 |
|
Kilkenny |
82 |
|
Laois |
83 |
|
Leitrim |
25 |
|
Limerick |
121 |
|
Longford |
41 |
|
Louth |
125 |
|
Mayo |
114 |
|
Meath |
184 |
|
Monaghan |
38 |
|
Offaly |
78 |
|
Roscommon |
77 |
|
Sligo |
72 |
|
Tipperary |
133 |
|
Waterford |
77 |
|
Westmeath |
104 |
|
Wexford |
102 |
|
Wicklow |
92 |
|
Northern Ireland |
8 |
|
Total |
3,664 |
These figures demonstrate the significant level of public interest in the Garda Reserve and the willingness of people to serve their local communities.
The process of selecting suitable candidates has already commenced. Interviews for the first tranche of reserve trainees were held from 12 September and medical examinations for candidates began last weekend. Candidates for the Garda Reserve are required to go through the same vetting process as full-time applicants and the process is underway.
In conjunction with this, senior members of An Garda Síochána have planned for training, equipping and deploying members of the Reserve. The first group of trainees is to commence Phase One training in the Garda College in Templemore this Saturday, 30 September. Reserve members will receive more than 120 hours initial training which will be in accordance with the best international standard. Training will consist of a comprehensive training programme of five phases as follows:
Phase One is a two day induction course which will give Reserve members an appreciation of the Garda Organisation and its culture.
Phase Two will consist of 56 hours training at evenings/weekends over an eight week period during which the trainee Reserve members will learn basic law and Garda procedures.
Phase Three is two days during which the trainee Reserve members will engage in role play exercises including radio procedures and be instructed in self defence, handcuff techniques and use of equipment.
Phase Four is a minimum of 40 hours at a nominated Garda Station during which the Trainee Reserve members will engage in accompanied beat patrol with a full-time Garda and Station duty under a Station Sergeant.
Phase Five is a one day graduation at the Garda College.
It is anticipated that the first group of trainees will be assigned to five different Garda stations throughout the State. These are: Sligo, Mill Street in Galway, Anglesea Street in Cork, Pearse Street, Dublin 2 and Store Street, Dublin 1. Once the full county by county analysis of applications is available from the Public Appointments Service further locations will be identified for deployment.
Architectural Heritage.
Catherine Murphy
Question:151 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works will continue to retain responsibility for the maintenance of Castletown House, Celbridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30190/06]
Catherine Murphy
Question:152 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance his views on purchasing Batty Langley Lodge, Castletown Demesne, Celbridge, County Kildare on behalf of the State due to the historical significance of the property; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30191/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 151 and 152 together.
The Office of Public Works is currently responsible for the maintenance of Castletown House and there are no plans to change this situation. In relation to the possible acquisition by the State of Batty Langley Lodge, I accept that there may be some merit in acquiring the property to strengthen the integrity of the Castletown Demesne. However, I do not consider its acquisition essential in the context of the overall strategy for the management and conservation of Castletown House and Estate. The matter will be kept under review as part of the ongoing management and development of the House and Estate by the Office of Public Works.
Garda Stations.
Catherine Murphy
Question:153 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance when the Garda Station in Leixlip will commence construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30192/06]
It is expected that work on the construction of the new Garda station at Leixlip, Co. Kildare will commence early in 2007.
Customs and Excise Service.
Catherine Murphy
Question:154 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance in view of the fact that Weston Aerodrome has had it classification changed, the action which has been taken to increase the frequency customs inspections of flights there; if there are plans to install permanent customs officials at the aerodrome; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30193/06]
Weston Aerodrome has been re-classified as a Category C airport by the Irish Aviation Authority. This classification now means that Weston has controlled airspace in conjunction with Dublin and Baldonnel airports. This reclassification does not change the type or size of aircraft currently capable of using Weston.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that there have been no alterations to the Conditions of Approval granted to Weston Ltd by the Revenue Commissioners. The Office of the Revenue Commissioners has responsibility for the collection of all import duties and the enforcement of prohibitions or restrictions which may apply at import. In particular the Office has primary responsibility for the prevention, detection, and seizure of controlled drugs at importation. They have responsibility for implementing import controls at points of entry into the State, specifically, at ports, airports, including licensed airfields, and on the land frontier.
Control of Weston Aerodrome, and other licensed airfields in the Dublin Region, is carried out by Customs Teams attached to the Dublin Enforcement District. These are dedicated anti-smuggling teams, which focus on the smuggling of prohibited drugs, and fiscal products. Other duties undertaken by Officers in attendance at Weston Aerodrome include clearance of aircraft and passengers arriving from third countries, spot checks on EU flights, verification of fuel Drawback Claims, verification of End-Use Authorisations, clearance of aircraft under Transfer of Residence, and checks on private aircraft to ensure compliance with import procedures (new means of transport).
In 2004, Officers attached to the Dublin Enforcement District carried out 12 planned and 6 unplanned visits to Weston. During 2005, 10 planned and 6 unplanned visits; and to-date in 2006, 11 planned and 3 unplanned visits have been made to Weston by Officers from this district. All Customs operations are risk focused, and staff deployed to combat areas of greatest risk. The level of activity at Weston Aerodrome is constantly monitored from a risk perspective. Revenue will, of course, review their risk assessments in light of the reported heroin seizure in Belgium earlier this week involving a Weston-based plane.
Tax Code.
Jerry Cowley
Question:155 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider in the context of the forthcoming Budget, issuing of VAT refunds for visitors attending business conferences here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30194/06]
As the Deputy will be aware from previous 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 I will consider it in the context of the forthcoming Budget.
Flood Prevention.
Tony Gregory
Question:156 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance the reason a report from the Office of Public Works stating the reasons the strengthening of the river wall on the Tolka along East Wall Road by repointing the wall, has still not been carried out, despite preliminary work being completed some time ago; and when this necessary work will be done. [30224/06]
The Office of Public Works is currently carrying out works in the Griffith Park area in Dublin City. The repointing of the wall along East Wall Road will commence as resources allow but it is hoped that this will occur before the end of the current year.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:157 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Finance if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and, if so, the amount of such moneys. [30234/06]
The 2006 revised estimate for my Department's vote is €110.831 million. Moneys from the Vote will be fully and appropriately spent in accordance with the ambit of the Vote. While the Outturn for the Vote will not, of course, be known until after end year, expenditure trends to date suggest a possible saving of the order of €10 million may arise at end 2006. Any Savings will be surrendered to the Exchequer or carried over to 2007, in accordance with the law.
Jerry Cowley
Question:158 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Finance the areas of overspend in the Border Midland Western regions as stated by him in September 2006; if he will elaborate on the expectations of the Government to the spending plan for the BMW region from now until 2008 as stated; the improvement the area can expect by 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30245/06]
The National Development Plan/Community Support Framework (NDP/CSF) 2000-2006 is implemented through seven Operational Programmes. The most recent expenditure data on the Plan relates to the period to the end December 2005. This data is set out in Tables 1 and 2 below. Data for first six months of 2006 will be available at end October 2006 following the meetings of the Operational Programme Monitoring Committees.
Table 1 sets out the indicative total expenditure forecasts and the estimated total expenditure incurred under each Operational Programme in the Border, Midland and Western (BMW) Region for the period January 2000 to December 2005.
|
January 2000 to end December 2005 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Operational Programme |
Original Profile |
Estimated Expenditure |
Expenditure versus Profile |
|
€m |
€m |
% |
|
|
Economic and Social Infrastructure |
5,863 |
5,435 |
92 |
|
Employment & Human Resources Development |
3,653 |
3,449 |
94 |
|
Productive Sector |
2,663 |
786 |
29 |
|
Border, Midlands & Western Regional |
3,519 |
2,273 |
64 |
|
PEACE II & Technical Assistance |
146 |
109 |
74 |
|
Total Expenditure |
15,844 |
12,052 |
76 |
Profiles and Expenditure data includes all NDP sources of funding; Exchequer, EU and Private.
The Exchequer forecast and estimated Exchequer expenditure incurred under each operational programme in the BMW Region for the period January 2000 to December 2005 is set out in Table 2.
|
January 2000 to end December 2005 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Operational Programme |
Original Profile |
Estimated Expenditure |
Expenditure versus Profile |
|
€m |
€m |
% |
|
|
Economic and Social Infrastructure |
4,054 |
4,570 |
113 |
|
Employment and Human Resources Development |
3,654 |
3,495 |
96 |
|
Productive Sector |
1,741 |
600 |
34 |
|
Border, Midlands & Western Regional |
2,566 |
1,920 |
75 |
|
PEACE II & Technical Assistance |
146 |
109 |
74 |
|
Total Exchequer Expenditure |
12,161 |
10,694 |
88 |
It can be seen from the data presented in Table 2 that the Exchequer contribution to the BMW Region under the Economic and Social Infrastructure Operational Programme (ESIOP) has exceeded its original target by €516 million to the end of 2005. However, a complete picture of extra expenditure in the region, over that committed in the lifetime of the NDP, will not be available until the full year expenditure data for 2006 are analysed and reported at the Spring 2007 meetings of the Operational Programme Monitoring Committees.
The latest information indicates that overall gross expenditure in the Border, Midlands and West (BMW) region is running at €12.1 billion for the six year period 2000-2005, with the Exchequer component running at €10.7 billion. The information also indicates that the overall outturn for the NDP is expected to be near to forecast by the end of 2006, but with some over-performance and underperformance of expenditure taking place within the Operational Programmes that support the NDP. However, it is also expected that co-funded measures under the NDP will achieve their full entitlement to Structural Funds in the BMW Region by the end of 2008, the timetable set out in the Regulations. So the overall impact will not be available until that time.
The Government's commitment to the region does not cease when the current funding round draws to a close. The new National Development Plan 2007-13, currently in preparation, will build on the achievements already taking place under the Plan. In addition the BMW region will also receive Structural Funds allocation of €458m under the next round of funding 2007-13. In that context my Department is also preparing the National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF) which will set out the strategic orientation of the Funds and link the Community's priorities with the national and regional priorities, and which in turn will assist in the preparation of the relevant Operational Programmes.
Decentralisation Programme.
Michael Lowry
Question:159 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Finance the decentralisation locations where office accommodation has been found for each agency or Department; if the accommodation is of a permanent or temporary nature; when he expects permanent accommodation to be found in each case for locations where staff have not yet relocated, when he expects decentralisation of staff to begin to each location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30246/06]
I understand that a further report from the Decentralisation Implementation Group will be available shortly and it will address the property issues and timeframes for all decentralising Departments and Agencies.
Denis Naughten
Question:160 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the status of the negotiations for the acquisition of a site in Mullingar town centre for the provision of accommodation for the decentralisation of the Department of Education and Science to Mullingar ; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30266/06]
The Office of Public Works has identified a suitable site in Mullingar town centre and negotiations to acquire it are underway.
Pension Provisions.
Brian O'Shea
Question:161 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance when approval will be given for the pension scheme proposal for primary school caretakers submitted to his Department from the Department of Education and Science; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30310/06]
My Department has no objection, in principle, to the pension scheme proposal submitted by the Department of Education and Science for certain caretakers employed in certain primary schools. However, there are some details in relation to the proposal which remain to be considered further before formal sanction to the scheme can be given by my Department. Discussions on these issues are ongoing between the two Departments and I would expect the outstanding issues to be resolved in the near future.
Garda Stations.
Charlie O'Connor
Question:162 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance if he will report on contacts between the Office of Public Works and South Dublin County Council in respect of an available site adjacent to the new Tallaght Leisure Centre at Jobstown which would be ideal for a much needed Tallaght west Garda Station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30411/06]
It is proposed to build a new Divisional Garda headquarters at the site of the existing Garda station in Tallaght. No other site is under consideration.
Natural Heritage Areas.
John McGuinness
Question:163 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance the status of the provision of fencing at sites (details supplied) in County Kilkenny as part of the River Nore drainage scheme; if the re-seeding has been agreed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30412/06]
The first batch of fabricated fencing is due to be delivered to Kilkenny within the next few days and work on the erection of the fencing will commence at the Dukesmeadow site in the very near future. Fencing of the Bishopsmeadows site will take place at a later stage owing to other works currently being undertaken in that area by the County Council on the construction of a riverside walk, cycle path and associated works.
On the advice of Kilkenny County Council and the wildlife ranger it has been decided not to re-seed the Bishopsmeadows site. This area is part of an SAC (Special Area of Conservation) and the wildlife ranger has advised that the wild flowers are now getting much better established since the start of the summer and the area is greening up satisfactorily. It is expected that the area will naturally re-establish itself within a short space of time. The area along the roadside is being maintained by the County Council and only the area within the Meadows is being left unmaintained as meadow grass.
Tax Collection.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:164 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the full extent of information still required to determine income tax liability in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare for the year ending 31 December 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30424/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:165 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if payment of income tax in respect of 2004 account has been granted and recorded against the liability for 2004 in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30425/06]
I propose to take Questions 164 and 165 together.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the tax liability of, and tax payments made by, individual taxpayers is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners. I am advised by Revenue that the information requested by the Deputy is confidential to the taxpayer concerned and, accordingly, they are not in a position to disclose it. If the taxpayer wishes to confirm any details relating to his tax affairs then either he or his agent should make direct contact with Revenue. If the Deputy is representing the taxpayer, then he may wish to write to Revenue on his behalf.
Tax Code.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:166 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when a refund of income tax will be made in the case of a person details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30426/06]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that an amended PAYE Balancing Statement for 2005 issued to the taxpayer on 26 September 2006. This showed that no tax deductions were made from her income in 2005. Consequently, no entitlement to a refund arises in this instance.
Willie Penrose
Question:167 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Finance the taxation position of a person, who wishes to sell land to their local parish, to enable a school to be constructed thereon, in the context that they would have obtained agricultural relief in respect of the said lands when they succeed to same; if there are taxation provisions which would be beneficial to them in respect of them disposing of an area of land to service such a school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30427/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that relief from Capital Acquisitions Tax on gifts and inheritances of agricultural property is available where the beneficiary fulfils certain conditions. If the beneficiary sells the agricultural property within six years of the date of the gift or inheritance a claw-back of the relief will occur, unless the proceeds from the sale are fully expended in acquiring replacement agricultural property within a year of the sale. The extent of the claw-back relates to the amount of the sale proceeds not re-invested. The fact that the sale is to the local parish has no particular advantages regarding the claw-back of agricultural relief.
I am further advised by the Revenue Commissioners that if the previous owner of the land was entitled to relief from capital gains tax (CGT) on its disposal to the current owner, a sale by the current owner, within six years of acquisition, might result in a claw-back of some or all of the that relief. In such a case the CGT, which would have been charged on the previous owner, is assessed and charged on the current owner.
Furthermore, the CGT Acts provides for relief on capital gains arising where an asset is sold to the State or to a charity for a consideration not exceeding the cost of the asset to the owner. However, more information would be required to decide what would be the result in this case.
The Deputy should contact the Revenue Commissioners if he would like more specific information on how the above would apply to the landowner in question.
Inland Waterways.
John McGuinness
Question:168 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works and the local authority concerned will clean and maintain the river bank at the rear of a premises (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30428/06]
My officials advise me that the Commissioners of Public Works are responsible for the maintenance of the flood defences (embankments, wall, etc.) constructed as part of the flood relief scheme in Kilkenny and also clearing any vegetation, branches which encroach into the river channel and affect the hydraulic flow of the river. The Commissioners' responsibilities do not extend to the cleaning and maintenance of the area between the river and peoples properties. An old silted-up mill race runs through the area between the river bank and the property boundaries of houses in the area in question. In the past, litter and other debris has accumulated in this area. During the works on the drainage scheme, the local authority was unable to gain access to this area as the site was in the possession of the contractor undertaking the drainage works. In these circumstances, the OPW exceptionally arranged for the contractor to clean up the area at that time.
General Medical Services Scheme.
John Deasy
Question:169 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children if the review of the GMS GP contract and other publicly funded GP services, under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission, has been completed; the recommendations that have been made as a result of the review; if she intends to implement the recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30195/06]
The Review of the contractual arrangements for the provision of services under the General Medical Services and other related schemes for the delivery of public health services by General Practitioners under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission is ongoing. It is my desire that the outcome of the Review should be a set of contractual arrangements which will facilitate the delivery of a modern, efficient, cost-effective and high quality service, in line with national policy on primary care.
Mental Health Services.
Jerry Cowley
Question:170 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is no psychological treatment available for siblings, families and partners of psychiatric patients; if this problem needs to be addressed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30196/06]
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.
Services for People with Disabilities.
Kathleen Lynch
Question:171 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of individual care packets which were funded by the Health Service Executive for people with intellectual disability to live alone or supported within the family because of diagnoses of Autism and challenging behaviour and intellectual disability with complex needs; if she will outline the amounts and the location of each of these packages; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30197/06]
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.
Kathleen Lynch
Question:172 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people with intellectual disability and their families receiving financial support from the Health Service Executive in the years 2004/05 for the bands €5,000 — €20,000, €20,000 — €60,000, €60,000 — €100,000, €100,000 — €150,000, €150,000 — €200,000, €200,000 — €250,000, €250,000 — €300,000, €350,000 — €400,000, €400,000 — €450,000 and €450,000 plus; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30198/06]
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.
Departmental Staff.
Kathleen Lynch
Question:173 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of employees in her Department for the years 1996-1997, 1997-1998, 19999-2000, 2001-2002, 2002-2003, 2003-2004, 2004-2005, 2005-2006 with specific reference to the reduction in whole time equivalents in the Department and identify the corresponding increase in the Health Service Executive since its establishment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30199/06]
The whole time equivalent numbers employed in the Department of Health and Children based on the figures given to the Department of Finance CENSIS Section for the specified years are outlined below. These figures include staff employed in:
the Department of Health and Children (including the recently expanded Office of the Minister for Children)
the General Register Office
The Adoption Board
the Social Services Inspectorate
the Office of the Ombudsman for Children.
|
Year |
Numbers employed in DOHC-WTE |
|
end Dec 1997 |
433 |
|
end Dec 1998 |
433 |
|
end Dec 1999 |
464 |
|
end Dec 2000 |
483.5 |
|
end Dec 2001 |
567.5 |
|
end Dec 2002 |
645.18 |
|
end Dec 2003 |
649.06 |
|
end Dec 2004 |
625.5 |
|
end Dec 2005 |
609.54 |
|
end June 2006 |
599.87** |
*The above figures do not include seconded-in staff.
**Includes staff transferred from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Childcare Directorate) to the Office of the Minister for Children in early 2006.
Arising from the Health Reform Programme and the establishment of the HSE some functions previously carried out by my Department have transferred or are in the process of being transferred to the HSE. This will involve a reduction of approximately 38 posts in my Department's complement of posts and a transfer of these posts to the HSE.
The initial transfer of functions to the HSE involving areas such as pensions policy, case mix and speciality costing, health promotion and hospital planning is proceeding. This matter will also be kept under constant review with a view to identifying other areas of work which are appropriate for transfer.
Mental Health Services.
Kathleen Lynch
Question:174 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of houses in the community bought by the Health Service Executive as part of the transfer programme from psychiatric hospitals that are still unoccupied; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30200/06]
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.
Hospital Services.
Jerry Cowley
Question:175 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children when a rheumatology department will be established at Mayo General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30201/06]
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.
Screening Programmes.
Jerry Cowley
Question:176 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to introduce screening of B Strep infection for pregnant women, in view of the fact that this is a silent killer of unborn babies and that a course of anti-biotic can save babies lives; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30202/06]
Formal screening for B streptococcus is not carried out at present but the issue is being kept under review.
Health Services.
Jerry Cowley
Question:177 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the action her Department is taking to help create a public awareness of osteoporosis which is both preventable and treatable and in view of the fact that one in five men and one in three women are sufferers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30203/06]
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.
Departmental Funding.
Jerry Cowley
Question:178 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the action her Department is taking to provide financial assistance to enable the Irish Osteoporosis Society to continue in operation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30204/06]
The Irish Osteoporosis Society (IOS) was funded on a once-off basis by the former Northern Area Health Board in 2004 and 2005. Funding of €130,000 was provided in 2005.
The HSE met with the IOS on the 31st of July 2006. The IOS requested further funding of €128,000 which they felt they were due for 2005. The HSE requested accounts for the €130,000 which the IOS received in 2005 before any further funding could be issued to the society. The IOS informed the HSE that accounts would be provided on the 2nd of August 2006.
The HSE received accounts from the IOS on the 10th of August 2006. The IOS were informed on the 16th of August 2006 that audited accounts and a tax clearance certificate would be required by the HSE.
The HSE received audited accounts on the 16th of August 2006 and a tax certificate on the 7th of September 2006. On the 18th of September the finance department of the HSE informed the Population Health directorate of the HSE that the accounts were in order.
A payment of €128,000 to the IOS was processed by the HSE on the 22nd of September 2006. The IOS should be in receipt of these funds within ten days of the processing date.
Accident and Emergency Services.
Jerry Cowley
Question:179 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children if the current trend of cancellation of the majority of surgical operations being cancelled at Mayo General Hospital in order to clear the trolley crisis in the accident and emergency department is going to continue; her views on whether this is a ridiculous decision by the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30205/06]
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.
Nursing Home Subventions.
Jerry Cowley
Question:180 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children if subvention will be provided for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30206/06]
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.
Departmental Estimates.
Phil Hogan
Question:181 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if the moneys allocated to her Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if she has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by her Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30236/06]
As Minister for Health and Children I am responsible for three Votes; Vote 39 — Health and Children, Vote 40 — Health Service Executive and Vote 41 — Office for the Minister for Health and Children. Based upon spending patterns to date the full Vote provision will be required.
Cancer Screening Programme.
Jerry Cowley
Question:182 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children when the National Cervical Cancer Screening Service will be instituted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30247/06]
I wish to see the Irish Cervical Screening Programme (ICSP) rolled out nationally by 2008, based on an affordable model and in line with international best practice. Significant preparatory work is well underway involving the introduction of new and improved cervical tests, improved quality assurance training and the preparation of a national population register. An additional €9m is available to the Executive for cancer services development in 2006, including the continuation of preparations for the roll out.
As part of my response to the Strategy for Cancer Control, I will establish a National Cancer Screening Agency to amalgamate BreastCheck and the ICSP to deliver both programmes nationally. This will maximise the expertise in both programmes, ensure improved efficiency and develop a single governance model for cancer screening. The plan is to have cervical screening managed as a national call/recall programme via effective governance structures that provide overall leadership and direction, in terms of quality assurance, accountability and value for money. All elements of the programme, call/recall, smear taking, laboratories and treatment services must be quality assured, organised and managed to deliver a single integrated service.
Health Services.
Jerry Cowley
Question:183 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children if she intends to invest to a greater extent in cardiovascular health services following research which found that Ireland spends the second lowest proportion of its health care budget on heart and circulatory diseases in the enlarged EU; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30248/06]
The research to which the Deputy refers is the study into the ‘Economic burden of cardiovascular diseases in the enlarges EU'; by Leal J, Luengo-Fernández R, Gray A, Petersen S and Rayner M. European Heart Journal, doi: 10. 1093 / eurheartj/ ehi733.
As was stated in a previous answer to this question, the authors set out to provide an estimate of the economic costs of cardiovascular disease for EU countries. It was unclear how some of these costs were estimated and given that the authors may have underestimated the true costs in Ireland, there are question marks about the accuracy of the overall findings as they relate to this country.
The Cardiovascular Health Strategy — Building Healthier Hearts — was launched in 1999. The report makes recommendations about the prevention, treatment and surveillance of coronary heart disease across a number of sectors and the full range of health service activities, in health promotion, primary care, pre-hospital care, acute hospital services and cardiac rehabilitation.
Since 2000 this Government has committed over €63 million towards the implementation of the Strategy. This funding has supported a wide range of new regional services and initiatives, which have had a measurable impact on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with heart disease. More than 800 new posts have been created, including 19 additional consultant cardiology posts.
Significant progress has been made in addressing the key challenges in the implementation of the Strategy in relation to improving population health, ensuring equitable access to services and improving the quality of services. I understand the HSE review of the Cardiovascular Health Strategy is progressing as set out in the service plan for 2006 and my Department will continue to monitor this review.
Cancer Screening Programme.
Jerry Cowley
Question:184 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the fact that breast cancer is a terrible killer, that health care apartheid exists in this country, that 260 more women will die needlessly in the west and south before BreastCheck is up and running, and given that she has stated that it is not possible to get the Galway Clinic to carry out these essential checks, will she encourage the BreastCheck to out source this essential service in order to save women’s lives; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30249/06]
A breast screening programme is a complex multidisciplinary undertaking that requires considerable expertise and management involving population registers, call/recall systems, mammography, pathology and appropriate treatment and follow up. A programme must be quality assured and acceptable to women who attend for screening. The first phase of the programme is of a high quality and a similar quality in the West and South is essential.
I have met with representatives of BreastCheck and they are fully aware of my wish to have a quality assured programme rolled out to the remaining regions in the country as quickly as possible. For this to happen, essential elements of the roll out must be in place including adequate staffing, effective training and quality assurance programmes. I have made additional revenue funding of €2.3m available to BreastCheck to meet the additional costs of roll out. I have also approved an additional 69 posts. BreastCheck recently appointed Clinical Directors for the Southern and Western regions and the recruitment of Consultants and other staff is now underway.
BreastCheck also requires considerable capital investment in the construction of two new clinical units and in the provision of five additional mobile units and state of the art digital equipment. I have made available an additional €21m capital funding to BreastCheck for this purpose. Demolition works at South Infirmary/Victoria University Hospital were completed this month. The Department has issued approval to BreastCheck to award contracts for the construction of the static units at the South Infirmary/Victoria University Hospital, Cork and University College Hospital Galway. BreastCheck is confident that the target date of next year for the commencement of roll out to the Southern and Western regions will be met.
Any proposal received by BreastCheck to support the roll out of its screening programme will be carefully examined to assess the extent to which it complies with existing standards. BreastCheck recently conducted an evaluation of a proposal from a private screening service and concluded that the clinic in question would not be in a position to provide a screening programme in line with BreastCheck standards.
Parliamentary Questions.
Michael Lowry
Question:185 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason Parliamentary Question No. 154 of 25 April 2006 remains unanswered by the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30250/06]
Michael Lowry
Question:186 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of parliamentary questions submitted by this Deputy which remain unanswered by the Health Service Executive; the reason for any delay in providing replies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30251/06]
Michael Lowry
Question:187 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of parliamentary questions submitted by Houses of the Oireachtas Members which remain unanswered for more that three weeks; the reasons for any delay in providing replies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30252/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 185 to 187, inclusive, together.
In the period January to July 06, a total of 3836 Parliamentary Questions were answered by me and the Ministers of State at my Department. Of this total, 2222 questions related, in whole or in part, to matters proper to the statutory remit of the HSE and were accordingly referred to the Executive for direct reply. The Executive has issued replies to 1990 of these Questions and is currently working to issue replies as soon as possible in the case of the remaining 232 Questions, 9 of which were asked by the Deputy.
The Executive endeavours to issue final replies to questions within 20 working days. I have been informed that for the period concerned 1,200 replies issued within this timeframe. The reasons for a delay in replying to questions may vary. For instance, questions can differ substantially in relation to the extent of the detail sought either in relation to a national service or in relation to a service over a period of years. In some cases the preparation of replies may involve decisions of a wider nature such as determining service priorities or resource allocation. I have been informed that the Executive's Parliamentary Affairs Division has been in touch with the Deputy's office to explain the reason for the delay and to confirm that a reply will issue shortly in relation to the particular question referred to by him.
I am aware that the HSE is actively addressing performance in this area. The measures being taken include the allocation of additional resources to the Executive's Parliamentary Affairs Division.
Hospital Services.
Denis Naughten
Question:188 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will increase the funding available to Roscommon and Mayo Hospice for the provision of palliative care services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30261/06]
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.
Medical Cards.
Paul Connaughton
Question:189 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person who holds a full medical card will have the nursing home costs covered for the first two weeks after surgery taking into account the person has VHI cover; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30283/06]
Section 53 of the Health Act, 1970, provides for charges to be made in respect of inpatient services generally. In regard to public long-stay care, Section 53 was amended by the Health (Amendment) Act, 2005 to provide for a charge where inpatient services have been provided for a period of not less than 30 days, or for periods aggregating not less than 30 days within the pervious 12 months. This was implemented by the Health (Charges for In-Patients Services) Regulations 2005 which provided for the levying of charges in respect of the maintenance of person in public long-stay care. Services are not, therefore, free in public units and, in respect of private nursing homes, the financial support given by the State to patients is at present governed by the Health (Nursing Homes) Act, 1990 and subsequent Regulations, which allow the State to pay a subvention towards the cost of private nursing home care. The Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2001 does not give statutory entitlement to free nursing home care in either public or private nursing homes. The Deputy may be aware that the placing of a person in a private nursing home is a private matter between the person or his or her representatives and the nursing home proprietor, as are the fees charged in these facilities.
With regard to a person having medical cover, VHI pays nursing home benefit where a VHI member is transferred to a convalescent home listed in its directory of convalescent homes, for up to fourteen days, if the Consultant decides for medical reasons, and their Medical Director agrees, that a person who is a member of VHI needs to stay in a convalescent home immediately after being in hospital for medically necessary treatment, which is eligible for VHI Healthcare benefit. The benefits payable in respect of convalescent claims depend on the plan held, typically between €45 and €70 per day. The nursing home cover provided by VHI is in accordance with the prescribed amount of cover insurers are obliged to provide under article 5 and Schedule A of the Minimum Benefit Regulations.
Health Service Staff.
Róisín Shortall
Question:190 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the basis for determining the basic qualifying criteria for recruitment to the community welfare grade; and the reason those without a leaving certificate but who have acquired valuable life skills and demonstrable high levels of numeracy, literacy and communication are currently excluded under the current recruitment procedure. [30284/06]
The Deputy's question relates to human resource management issues within the Health Service Executive. As this is a matter for the Executive under the Health Act, 2004, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Housing Aid for the Elderly.
John McGuinness
Question:191 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will expedite an application under the housing aid for the elderly scheme in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [30312/06]
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. This includes responsibility for the provision of the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Accordingly, the Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Health Service Staff.
Denis Naughten
Question:192 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children if the locations of the three primary care teams for County Roscommon have been determined; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30313/06]
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.
Denis Naughten
Question:193 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps being taken to recruit and retain qualified chiropodists in County Roscommon PCCC; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30314/06]
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.
Health Services.
Denis Naughten
Question:194 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps being taken to address the backlog in audiology services; the number of adults and children currently awaiting an audiology appointment; when the backlog in audiology waiting lists will be cleared; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30315/06]
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.
Health Service Staff.
Denis Naughten
Question:195 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children when a principal psychologist will be required for the child psychology department in County Roscommon; the reason for the delay in recruiting this position; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30316/06]
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.
Health Services.
Jerry Cowley
Question:196 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children if her Department will evaluate the need for a wet hostel in County Mayo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30317/06]
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.
Jerry Cowley
Question:197 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children if the deed of transfer in the case of a nursing home (details supplied) in County Mayo has taken place; her views on whether this is taking an extraordinary long time to transfer in view of the fact that this site was approved for transfer from Mayo County Council to the Health Service Executive western area in March 2003; her further views on whether this should take place immediately and provide Ballinrobe town with this long awaited nursing home facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30318/06]
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.
Grant Payments.
Charlie O'Connor
Question:198 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm that arrangements are being made for the payment of a major grant to a project (details supplied) in Dublin 24.; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30344/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the Equal Opportunities Child Care Programme 2000- 2006 (EOCP) and the National Child care Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), which are being implemented by the newly established Office of the Minister for Children.
I am pleased to inform you that the Group in question was recently approved €700,000 in capital grant assistance under the EOCP. The approval of funding is subject to the Group concluding satisfactory contractual arrangements with Pobal, which is engaged to administer the Programme. I understand that the Child care Directorate of my Office has advised the Group of this decision.
The Group also approved staffing continuation funding of €159,800, up to 31 December 2007, in August 2005. I understand that the next payment due will be made to the Group over the coming days.
Hospital Services.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:199 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that inadequate funding is available to deal with the situation of persons who are profoundly deaf and who require either ear implants or upgrades of same; and if she will ensure that such funding is made available in order that the four year waiting lists will be eliminated and the service provided when required. [30345/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Health Service Executive to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Health Services.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:200 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the supports available to parents whose young children have been diagnosed with autism; her views on the fact that adequate facilities and resources are not available for such children; and the plans she has to make such resources and facilities available. [30346/06]
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.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:201 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when services will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who was diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorder; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30347/06]
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.
John McGuinness
Question:202 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the extent of the orthodontic treatment available in County Carlow for public patients; if patients being referred to Waterford for treatment will be given the option to attend in Kilkenny for convenience; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30348/06]
The Deputy's question regarding the way that children are assessed and deemed eligible for orthodontic treatment relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
John McGuinness
Question:203 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a full report on the treatment and eye operation received by a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny was not given to the patient when requested; if an appointment to deal with these matters will be arranged at Waterford Hospital for the person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30349/06]
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.
John McGuinness
Question:204 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if an appointment will be made at Kilcreene Hospital, Kilkenny for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny in view of the nature of their case; and if she will expedite the matter. [30350/06]
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.
John McGuinness
Question:205 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children further to a previous parliamentary question, if a placement for three full days per week will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will expedite the request. [30351/06]
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.
Community Care.
John McGuinness
Question:206 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children further to a reply to a previous parliamentary question, if the report on the area medical officer services for Rathvilly, Carlow is available from Carlow Kilkenny community care; and if she will expedite the matter. [30352/06]
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.
Medical Aids and Appliances.
John McGuinness
Question:207 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in providing new hearing aids for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will expedite the matter. [30353/06]
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.
Hospital Services.
John McGuinness
Question:208 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children further to correspondence with the Health Service Executive of 24 July 2006, if Waterford Regional Hospital has agreed to provide injection chemotherapy treatment for a person (details supplied)in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30354/06]
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.
Nursing Home Subventions.
John McGuinness
Question:209 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if the financial contributions now being sought from residents of Health Service Executive group homes within the community is the same for those homes which are being supervised and those which are unsupervised; if the same level of contribution is being applied throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30356/06]
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.
Hospital Services.
John McGuinness
Question:210 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if a hip replacement operation will be expedited for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [30357/06]
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.
Health Service Allowances.
John McGuinness
Question:211 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the level of grant assistance given to a house (details supplied) by the Health Service Executive in each of the past five years; if a top-up grant will be approved in 2006 to take account of the cost of living increases; if the grant will be doubled for 2007 based on the level of services being provided and the costs involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30358/06]
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.
Medical Cards.
John McGuinness
Question:212 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if a medical card application will be re-considered in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny with a view to granting the card; and if she will expedite the matter. [30359/06]
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.
Health Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:213 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if and when speech and language therapy will be provided in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30407/06]
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.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Denis Naughten
Question:214 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of companies who have availed of the biofuel excise relief; the companies in question and their address; the volume of fuel that they have sought relief for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30280/06]
Under the pilot Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Scheme a total of eight projects were awarded excise relief in August 2005.
Details of the successful projects in question are as follows:
Recycled Products Ltd., Donegal Farm Relief Services Group Oakfield Demesne, Raphoe, Co Donegal
Eilish Oils Ltd., Slí na Bándé, Kilmurry, Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow
Kilkenny Cereals Ltd., Killure House, Killure, Goresbridge, Co Kilkenny
Biogreen Energy Products Ltd., The Leap, Adamstown, New Ross, Co Wexford
Eco Ola, Industrial Support Centre, Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway
Greyhound Recycling & Recovery Ltd., Carrollstown Estate, Trim, Co Meath
Conoco Phillips, Whitegate, Midleton, Co Cork
Maxol Ltd., 3 Custom House Plaza, IFSC, Dublin 1.
Under the scheme mineral oil tax relief is being granted on six million litres of pure plant oil, one million litres of biodiesel and one million litres of bioethanol over the two-year period for which the scheme is running. Building on the success of the pilot scheme, I launched the Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Scheme II in July 2006. Details of the successful applications received under this scheme will be available when the assessment process has been completed.
Offshore Exploration.
Jerry Cowley
Question:215 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Nigerian Government are in receipt of 60 per cent of the value of oil from the country and that a company (details supplied) are in receipt of 40 per cent of the value of the oil and the situation here where the Government get zero per cent needs review and overhaul; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30178/06]
The fiscal terms for the licensing regime under which offshore exploration companies operate are provided for by the Finance Act 1992. The system is straightforward and is based on a corporation tax rate of 25% applying to profits earned. Historic capital expenditures are 100% deductible at the start of production. No royalty or production bonus or their equivalents are required.
The regime was introduced with a view to establishing a risk/reward balance, which reflects Ireland's circumstances, including the industry perception of relative prospectivity, and acknowledges the realities of competition for internationally mobile exploration/production investment. I recently put in motion a review of the licensing regime under which offshore exploration companies operate in this country.
My Department recently engaged the advice of external experts to independently validate the proposed changes. When I have received and considered the report of the external experts I will bring forward proposals in relation to the licensing regime for exploration and production.
I should point out to the Deputy that Nigeria is one of the biggest oil producers in the world, and a substantial gas producer, and is a proven petroleum province. Ireland, on the other hand, does not currently produce any oil and only produces approximately 15% of its gas requirements.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Martin Ferris
Question:216 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the figures for biodiesel production in Ireland since 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30179/06]
Martin Ferris
Question:217 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources in view of the 68 per cent increase in biodiesel production in the EU since 2004 if this State is lagging seriously behind; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30180/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 216 and 217 together.
In 2004 there were 14,000 litres of biofuels produced in Ireland. This figure rose to over 1.3 million litres of biofuels being produced in 2005.
A number of initiatives are in place to support the development of a biofuels sector in Ireland. The 2005 pilot mineral oil tax relief scheme for biofuels has resulted in eight projects being awarded excise relief and will result in 16 million litres of biofuels being placed on the Irish transport market by next year.
Building on the success of this scheme I launched the Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Scheme II, valued at over €200 million, in July 2006. The new excise relief programme, which is subject to State-aid approval, will be rolled out from this year to 2010 and will enable us to reach a target of 2% market penetration of biofuels by 2008. When fully operational the relief is expected to support the use and production of some 163 million litres of biofuels each year. I am also providing funding towards the capital cost of developing biofuels processing facilities, which will critically underpin the excise relief package.
Ireland, like many other EU Member States, is developing its biofuels sector from a low base. This is borne out by the fact that Member States combined reported a target of 1.4% for 2005, which is below the Directive's indicative target. The Commission has however, accepted Ireland's target of 2% by 2008.
I am firmly committed to the development of an Irish biofuels market and to the increased development of bio-energy generally in Ireland. To this end, I launched a Ministerial Bio Energy Task Force in July 2006. The primary objective of the Task Force is to draw up a cohesive national bio-energy strategy by the end of the year, which will set targets for deployment of bio-energy, identify priority areas for development and the necessary support measures to encourage supply and demand. This strategy will also take account of EU developments, and the views of key stakeholders under the Energy Green Paper consultation process.
Water Quality.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:218 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reports that have issued regarding poor water quality in Ireland’s waterways in the past year; if such reports refer to dumping of excretion from cruise boats on Ireland’s waterways; if not, why not; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30223/06]
I have no function in this matter. The reports to which the Deputy refers are, I presume, those produced by the Environmental Protection Agency, which operates under the aegis of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:219 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30228/06]
The 2006 Revised Estimates for Public Services included a net provision of €291.44 million in respect of my Department. This is comprised of gross provisions of €371.803 million for current expenditure and €155.885 million for capital expenditure less approved Appropriations-in-Aid of €236.248 million. In addition, my Department has an allocation of €11.429 million in unspent capital from 2005, the surrender of which was deferred in accordance with Section 91 of the Finance Act 2004.
At this stage, I do not anticipate any aggregate savings on my Department's current budget for 2006. I expect that any shortfall on capital expenditure will be accommodated within the terms of Section 91 of the Finance Act 2004, which provides for Departments to carry over into the following year, unspent capital allocations of up to 10% of the voted capital provision.
Marine Research.
Michael Ring
Question:220 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of days the research vessels Celtic Explorer and Celtic Voyager spent at sea from 1 January 2006 to 1 September 2006; the research projects undertaken in that period that were on fish stocks; and the duration of said projects. [30270/06]
I am advised by the Marine Institute, which has responsibility for the research programmes undertaken by the research vessels, that Celtic Voyager spent 158 days at sea from 1 January 2006 to 1 September 2006, and Celtic Explorer spent 223 days at sea during the same period. The following fisheries research projects were undertaken by the two vessels during that period:
|
Project |
Duration |
|
Ground fish survey Irish Sea |
10 days |
|
Spawning stock survey |
24 days |
|
Underwater TV prawn survey |
21 days |
|
Survey of Scallop Fishing grounds Celtic Sea |
24 days |
|
Project |
Duration |
|
North West herring acoustic survey |
21 days |
|
Blue whiting survey |
21 days |
|
Lesser Antilles Pelagic Ecosystem project for the United Nations Food & Agriculture Organisation |
24 days |
According to the Marine Institute, a further 81 days of fisheries research activity is scheduled to be undertaken by Celtic Explorer in the period from 1 September to 31 December 2006. These include:
|
Project |
Duration |
|
Deepwater Survey |
13 days |
|
International Bottom Trawl Survey |
47 days |
|
Celtic Sea Herring Acoustic Survey |
21 days |
Telecommunications Services.
Denis Naughten
Question:221 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the action he is taking to expand the accessibility of broadband outside urban centres in provincial Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30271/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), the independent regulator. However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest in broadband infrastructure at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) will allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs.
Twenty-seven MANs have been completed under the first phase and are currently being managed by ENet, the Management Services Entity. The second phase extends the programme to over 90 towns with a population of 1,500 and above that do not have a satisfactory broadband offering from the private sector.
My Department offers funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the County and Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area. To date, over 160 projects have been approved for funding under this Programme. A joint industry/Government fund of €18 million has been established for the Broadband for Schools Programme to resource the provision of high speed broadband connectivity to all primary and post primary schools in the country by end Autumn 2006, at no cost to the schools themselves. 95% of schools have broadband installed to date; the aim is to complete the outstanding schools in the coming weeks. However, I recognise that despite these successes there are some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband connectivity. I am currently examining options to address the delivery of broadband services to these areas and I hope to be in a position to bring proposals to Government shortly.
Denis Naughten
Question:222 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to extend Eircom’s universal service obligation to require it to provide DSL services; his views on whether there should be an obligation on Eircom to provide a broadband service or a reason for line failure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30272/06]
I have no such plans. The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) is the statutory body with responsibility for setting requirements to be complied with by the designated Universal Service provider. As Minister for Communications I gave my consent last summer, as required by the European Communities (Electronic Communications Networks and Services) (Universal Service and User's Rights) Regulations 2003 (S.I. No. 308 of 2003) which transposes the EU Universal Services Obligations (USO) Directive into Irish Law, to the setting by ComReg of 28.8 kbit/s as a reasonable minimum data rate for functional Internet access having regard to prevailing technologies used by the majority of subscribers and to technological feasibility.
Ministerial Appointments.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:223 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if there was a potential conflict of interest at the time of his appointment of a new chairperson to Bord Iascaigh Mhara in view of the then alleged connection of the new chairperson to a company performing a management function for a technology park where BIM was to be temporarily based. [30335/06]
The suggested potential conflict of interest to which the Deputy refers is in the first instance predicated on the assumption that Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) was to be temporarily located in the West Cork Technology Park. There is not at this point, nor was there any decision at the time referred to in the question, to temporarily base BIM in the West Cork Technology Park. Any issues of accommodation in respect of the decentralisation of BIM are dealt with by the OPW whom BIM asked to act as their agents in this matter.
Decentralisation Programme.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:224 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the decentralisation of his Department to Clonakilty; the number of higher executive officer posts in his Department; the number of HEO posts to be decentralised; and the number of those posts which have been filled by existing Dublin-based HEOs. [30336/06].
The Government's decentralisation programme provides for the decentralisation of the Marine function of my Department to Clonakilty by 2007. An early move to interim accommodation in Clonakilty took place in July last. There are seventy-four Higher Executive Officer posts in my Department. Thirteen of these posts are to relocate to Clonakilty. To date, six of these posts have been filled by Dublin based Higher Executive Officers wishing to decentralise.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:225 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the decentralisation of Bord Iascaigh Mhara to Clonakilty; the cost of the decentralisation to date and the projected final cost; the number of staff in BIM; the number to be decentralised; the number of staff who work a full five day week in Clonakilty; and the number who work one, two, three or four days in Dublin with the remainder in Clonakilty. [30337/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government's decentralisation programme provides for the relocation of an Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), involving 95 posts, to Clonakilty. BIM will be located, in its own buildings, on a campus style development with my Department's Seafood and Coastal Zone functions. Following a comprehensive consultation process with both BIM and the Department, the Office of Public Works (OPW) has as already secured a site for the Clonakilty Campus. OPW has also awarded a contact for the construction of facilities following a competitive tendering process. I understand that a planning application will be made by OPW in the coming weeks. I also understand that completion time, depending on the progress of the planning process, would be late 2008. I can confirm that BIM management met in the summer with the Government's Decentralisation Implementation Group to provide an update on progress. BIM management are working towards a relocation timetable of 2008. To date, no BIM staff have relocated to Clonakilty. The costs of the decentralisation facilities in Clonakilty is a matter for OPW and the Department of Finance.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:226 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his key targets for renewable energy in the period to 2030; his targets for electricity based on renewables in the same period; and if the Green Paper on Energy will be published on 1 October 2006. [30338/06]
The Renewables Directive obliges Ireland to develop and implement a programme capable of increasing the amount of electricity from renewable energy sources to 13.2% of total consumption by 2010. The target of 13.2% approximates to 1450 megawatts (MW) of installed generating capacity to be operational to the electricity network by 2010. Currently there are over 860MW of renewable capacity connected to the national grid. This consists of over 590MW of wind powered plant, 236MW of hydro powered plant with the balance (circa 35MWs) made up of different biomass technologies. Support mechanisms put in place by the Government have more than doubled the capacity of renewable energy powered electricity generating plants connected to the electricity network in the last two years. Building on this progress I recently announced an ambitious programme to almost treble the contribution by renewable energy sources from 5.2% of gross electricity consumption in 2004, the last full year for which figures are available, to 15% by 2010. The new target will require growth in the sector to more than double from the capacity currently connected to 1650 megawatts by 2010. The additional new capacity required to achieve this target will be delivered by projects under the previous AER V and AER VI competitions and the new Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff programme. The forthcoming Energy Green Paper will propose an even more ambitious target for increasing the amount of electricity from renewable energy sources by 2020. The Green Paper is scheduled to be published on 1 October.
Fishing Vessel Licences.
Cecilia Keaveney
Question:227 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in relation to a licence for a boat for a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30341/06]
The Licensing Authority for Sea Fishing Boats has informed me that an application for a polyvalent licence was received from the individual concerned on 12 December 2005. The Authority issued a written offer, outlining all the conditions pertaining to the issue of a licence, on 5 January 2006. All the licensing conditions were satisfied following receipt of the individual's written acceptance of the terms of the licence offer on 11 September 2006. The Licensing Authority issued a non-operative licence, together with an application form to have the vessel entered onto the Sea Fishing Boat Register, on 12 September 2006. The Licensing Authority has no record to date of having received the completed registration application form. On receipt of that completed form, the Licensing Authority will enter the vessel onto the Sea Fishing Boat Register and issue a sea-fishing boat licence.
Telecommunications Services.
John McGuinness
Question:228 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the grants schemes in place or to be introduced to provide broadband, wireless or otherwise, to main county towns and villages throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter [30342/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully-liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. However, it has been clear for some time that the sector has failed to invest in broadband infrastructure at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. The grant aid of 90% of the total investment is offered to Local Authorities to build these networks through a combination of NDP and ERDF Funds. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) will allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs.
Twenty-seven MANs have been completed under the first phase and are currently being managed by ENet, the Management Services Entity. The second phase extends the programme to over 90 towns with a population of 1,500 and above that do not have a satisfactory broadband offering from the sector. For rural communities and the hinterlands of larger towns, my Department offers funding under the County and Group Broadband Scheme to enable them to become self-sufficient in broadband, in association with service providers. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area. To date, over 160 projects have been approved for funding under this Programme.
A joint industry/Government fund of €18 million has been established for the Broadband for Schools Programme to resource the provision of high speed broadband connectivity to all primary and post primary schools in the country by end Autumn 2006, at no cost to the schools themselves. 94% of schools have broadband installed to date; the aim is to complete the outstanding schools in the coming weeks. However, I recognise that despite these successes there are some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband connectivity. I am currently examining options to address the delivery of broadband services to these areas and I hope to be in a position to bring proposals to Government shortly.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:229 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30235/06]
The 2006 Estimate for the Department of Foreign Affairs consists of two Votes: €204.346 million for Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs) and €600.479 million for Vote 29 (International Co-operation). Vote 28 includes an allocation to provide for the biometric passport project. This project is on schedule and is expected to be completed within budget. Apart from savings made on this project, it is anticipated that this year's allocations under Vote 28 will be substantially and appropriately spent in 2006. Based on expenditure to date, and having regard to projections to the end of the year, it is anticipated that this year's allocations under Vote 29 will also be substantially and appropriately spent in 2006.
Phil Hogan
Question:230 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30227/06]
The Revised Estimates allocation for my Department for 2006 amounts to €568.186 million, comprising both current and capital allocations, to meet the running costs of the Department, to provide funding to the various agencies, institutions and bodies operating in the arts, sport and tourism sectors and to meet expenditure associated with capital grant schemes and capital projects funded by the Department. At this stage I do not envisage any significant savings on the current allocation, most of which is designated as either grant or grant-in-aid funding for the various bodies under the aegis of my Department. The capital allocation in my Department's Vote for 2006 is provided under the terms of a 5-year Capital Investment Framework agreed annually between my Department and the Department of Finance under which savings of up to 10% of the total annual capital allocation in a current year may be carried forward to the following year, thus ensuring continuity in funding for capital schemes and projects. While underspending on certain subheads is likely to occur this year, I do not anticipate that there will be a significant net overall capital saving on my Department's vote. This is attributable to a combination of the reallocation of these savings to other subheads and the application of the 10% carryover provision. However, it is important to note, in the context of predicting year end results, that traditionally some 50% of the Department's capital spend occurs in the last 3 months of the year.
Ryder Cup.
Joe Costello
Question:231 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the costs incurred by the State in holding the Ryder Cup competition, including moneys granted to the sponsors, money spent on infrastructure and preparation, moneys spent on advertising the event; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30269/06]
The Agreement signed with the PGA European Tour in 1998 for the staging of the Ryder Cup in Ireland provided for a payment of €9.5m to the Tour over the intervening period. Of this, the Exchequer, through Fáilte Ireland, contributed €4.9m and the three co-sponsors contributed the balance (Bord Bia, Waterford Crystal, AIB). In 2006 an additional €4.5 million has been specifically allocated to Fáilte Ireland in order to support an enhanced programme of marketing and promotional activities around the Ryder Cup, including a National Branding Programme and a number of golf marketing initiatives. Additional funding is also being provided to Fáilte Ireland to support costs associated with a complementary programme of events with the European Tour including the official opening and closing ceremonies which made such a positive impact on international and domestic audiences. The aim of these programmes was to capitalise on the opportunities offered by the unique event that is the Ryder Cup with a view to promoting an enduring positive image of Irish Tourism. The success of the event, in terms of organisation and the presentation of a positive image of Ireland, has been widely acclaimed. I am not in a position to provide the Deputy with information relating to the cost of infrastructure as this does not fall within the aegis of my Department. Fáilte Ireland, in conjunction with the PGA/European Tour and other interests, have commissioned Deloitte and Touche to conduct an economic impact assessment on the Ryder Cup in Ireland and I look forward to the results of their work. Based on the experience of past tournaments, it has been estimated that the economic benefits of the event to Ireland are of the order of €130m.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:232 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30232/06]
The total amount of net funding allocated to my Department in this year's Estimates is €1,673.937 million. This figure includes €355.614 million from the National Training Fund and €29.780 million in capital allocations from 2005 which were carried forward in accordance with the provisions of the multi-annual Capital Investment Framework. My Department and its agencies have a series of monitoring and audit systems in place to provide assurance that funding which is provided through the Estimates is spent appropriately. At this stage, a small number of projected savings on 2006 allocations have been identified in some Subheads of my Department's Vote. However, extra funding requirements have also been identified in other Subheads which will absorb most of these savings. It is envisaged, at this stage, that any savings which remain in my Department's Vote at the end of the year will be minimal in the context of my Department's overall budget. It will be my Department's intention, where appropriate under the terms of the Capital Investment Framework and/or the Administrative Budget Agreement, to seek to carry savings forward to address my Department's priorities in 2007.
Industrial Development.
Jerry Cowley
Question:233 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will urgently address the crisis situation in Ballina, County Mayo where the unemployment rate is twice the national average and in view of the fact that this town has lost 1000 jobs in recent years; the views on whether this situation needs to be addressed; the steps that he intends to take to address this; the steps the IDA are taking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30243/06]
Unemployment is measured through the Quarterly National Household Survey as published by the Central Statistics Office. The Survey provides a breakdown of data on a regional basis only and not on specific towns. The most recent Survey data published in September shows that the national unemployment rate is 4.3%. The equivalent rate for the West region, which includes Ballina, is 4.2%.
Live register data is available for specific areas such as Ballina. However, it is not designed to measure unemployment. As well as showing the numbers claiming unemployment assistance and benefit it also includes part-time, seasonal and casual workers who would be entitled to unemployment benefit. In August of 2005 there were 1,605 people on the live register in Ballina. The most recent data available is for August of 2006, which shows that this number had fallen to 1,448.
State support for enterprise and job creation is channelled through the industrial development agencies, and while I may give general policy directives to the agencies under the Industrial Development Acts, I am precluded from giving directives regarding individual undertakings or from giving preference to one area over others. I have been assured by the agencies under the remit of my Department that they are endeavouring to attract new investment, to encourage the start-up of new businesses, to grow existing businesses and to develop the labour market in County Mayo.
IDA Ireland is actively promoting Ballina for new foreign investment and since January 2003, there have been five first time site visits to Ballina. In addition IDA Ireland is actively working with the existing base of overseas companies in Ballina and Mayo to encourage them to grow and expand. The Agency is also working closely with local groups, utility providers, the local authorities in the county and other agencies to enhance the attractiveness of the county, including Ballina, for new investment and jobs. In that regard IDA Ireland has been deeply involved with local partners in the development of Regional Planning Guidelines.
IDA Ireland has had extensive discussion with Mayo County Council in relation to the Business & Technology Park on the Sligo Road in Ballina and are awaiting the contract documentation and a copy of unburden title from the Council.
I am satisfied that the policies being pursued by the agencies under the remit of my Department, together with the Governments commitment to regional development will continue to bear fruit in terms of the creation of sustainable development for the people of Ballina and of the West generally.
Job Creation.
Denis Naughten
Question:234 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliamentary Question No. 200 of 29 September 2004, the grant aid returned to his Department by the company; the grant aid paid to the company in the past 10 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30259/06]
The total amount of grants paid by Enterprise Ireland and its predecessors to Irish Country Bacon (Rooskey) Ltd over the period 1996 — 2006 was €208,022. In addition, the company also received payments of €824,324 under the FEOGA Programme.
The company has not returned any grant aid to Enterprise Ireland. Discussions between Enterprise Ireland and the company concerning grant aid to the plant at Rooskey, Co. Roscommon are still continuing. Progress is being made on the negotiations and it is expected that a conclusion will be reached which will take account of a very significant investment which is being undertaken by the company in its Pork Division in Ireland.
Groceries Order.
Jerry Cowley
Question:235 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when the consumer here will realistically see the promised changes from the abolition of the Groceries Order; if his Department has established a group to scrutinise same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30305/06]
The Groceries Order was abolished primarily because it allowed wholesalers and suppliers to determine minimum retail prices charged to consumers, thereby seriously constraining price competition in the grocery trade. During the time the Groceries Order was in force more than 2,000 small independent retailers went out of business resulting in the grocery trade in Ireland becoming more concentrated in the hands of fewer participants.
The combined impact of these events was to create a floor under the retail price below which groceries could not be sold. This resulted in Irish consumers paying more for their groceries than would otherwise have been the case. However, there are many factors which impact on the price of groceries in our supermarkets. The lack of competition caused by the Groceries Order was only one such factor. Others would include production costs, labour costs, interest rates, overheads, international exchange rates and so on. Because of this, and despite the implication in the question, I never made any predictions as to the likely extent of price reductions resulting from the removal of the Order. I believe, however, that consumers are already seeing some early benefits with one multiple recently announcing its intention over coming months to implement reductions in the prices of thousands of products previously covered by the Groceries Order. This announcement appears to have had a positive impact on competition in the market with other significant players adopting competitive pricing strategies. I believe, however, that the real benefits will be felt over time as price competition increases at retail level thus reversing the 18 years of damage caused by the Order.
I have asked the Competition Authority to closely monitor the grocery sector, not least to ensure that the benefits of removing the Order are not thwarted by the emergence of other anti-competitive practices. That is why, for example, the Competition Act 2006 prohibits practices such as resale maintenance, which were institutionalised by the Order. It would be very damaging to consumer interests if such practices were to emerge within the grocery trade in another guise. My officials have had discussions with the Authority in this regard and will continue to meet with them as the process develops. I have also asked the Authority to report periodically on the results of their monitoring and to make any recommendations they consider appropriate in the light of their findings.
Industrial Development.
Jerry Cowley
Question:236 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if seed capital promised of several hundred million euro is to be made available to help the lack of regional development by being made available to western based companies and by being made available to the Western Development Commission and to Údaras na Gaeltachta; if so, the amount that will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30306/06]
On 22nd May 2006, I announced a major injection of liquidity into the venture capital market through a scheme to be administered by Enterprise Ireland. Enterprise Ireland will be investing €175 million which will leverage an estimated €1 billion for investment into seed, start-up and development stage businesses. This money is being made available via Enterprise Ireland to venture capital funds that will be able to invest throughout Ireland. The objectives of the scheme are to continue to support the venture capital industry, to leverage private sector funding and to encourage investment in those sectors that have difficulty in sourcing funding.
An advertisement was placed in the national press in June 2006 inviting expressions of interest from promoters and venture capital funds. Following a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of the applications, Enterprise Ireland are in the process of engaging with successful applicants who will receive a commitment of funding. Initial offers of funding have now been issued to successful Funds.
The Board of Enterprise Ireland is making these commitments based on the relative level of alignment of the Funds' investment strategies with the objectives of the Scheme and the overall strategic objectives of Enterprise Ireland. Preference was given to Funds that demonstrated the ability to meet the following criteria:
1. The extent to which the Funds will focus in Ireland on small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with international trading potential.
2. The extent to which the funds will invest in seed, start-up and development stage investments.
3. The extent to which the funds will invest in regions outside of Dublin.
4. The likely impact of venture capital investment on SMEs gaining access to other forms of national and international funding.
Regional development is a core strategic objective of Enterprise Ireland. Venture capitalists will be looking for commercial opportunities for investment throughout the State, including companies based in the western counties such as client companies of Údarás na Gaeltachta and the Western Development Commission.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Michael Ring
Question:237 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when payment of the carer’s allowance will commence for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; when the arrears due will issue to them; and when they will receive the household benefits package. [30211/06]
The person concerned is awarded Carer's Allowance with effect from 1 June 2006. He had previously been refused carer's allowance on the grounds that he was engaged in employment for more than ten hours per week. The limit on the number of hours of employment was raised to fifteen hours with effect from 1st June 2006, enabling the person concerned to qualify from that date.
As he is assessed with means of €52.31 derived from income from farming and income from his spouse's employment, his weekly rate of carer's allowance is €135. He also qualifies for child dependent allowance of €42 per week. His payable order books will be available for collection at his local post office on 28 September 2006.
A cheque for arrears of allowance due for the period 1 June 2006 to 27 September 2006 in the amount of €4,209 is in course of issue and includes the Respite Care Grant for 2006 of €1,200. The person concerned has also qualified for a free travel pass. His entitlement to the Household Benefits package will be assessed on receipt of the completed application form which was forwarded directly to him.
Departmental Estimates.
Phil Hogan
Question:238 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30238/06]
The total sum allocated to my Department in 2006 as between Vote 38 for Social and Family Affairs and the Social Insurance Fund is €13,540 million.
Demand-led schemes account for the vast bulk of social welfare expenditure and the determinants of such expenditure can change significantly even in the short to medium term. However, the indications at this stage of the year are that the Vote 38 allocation will be spent in full and that there will be a slight excess in the expenditure provision from the Fund, which will be more than off-set by increased income.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Michael Lowry
Question:239 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will remove the partner or spousal income from means testing for long-term social welfare payments such as disability allowance; the cost of such a measure; if the means test prevents younger people in receipt of such payments from purchasing their first home jointly with a partner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30257/06]
I understand that the Deputy is concerned about the impact on entitlement to disability allowance where an existing single recipient marries or cohabits with a partner who is employed, particularly where the couple wish to take out a mortgage to purchase a property. In the case of all social assistance schemes, including disability allowance, account is taken, for means testing purposes, of the claimant's own means and, in the case of a couple, their joint means.
In assessing means, an initial amount of a spouse or partner's earnings, net of tax, PRSI, superannuation contributions and health insurance contributions, is disregarded. Any mortgage repayments which the claimant and/or the spouse or partner may be paying are not included in the calculation of the disregard.
In Budget 2006, I was pleased to be able to increase the level of the disregard, from €88.88 to €100 a week. This comes into effect from next week for the purposes of disability allowance. I also announced an increase in the spouse or partner's income threshold (gross) for entitlement to the full rate of qualified adult allowance increases from €88.88 to €100 a week. The upper income threshold for entitlement to a reduced rate of qualified adult allowance was increased by €20 per week, to €240 per week with effect from last January and this will further increase to €250 concurrently with the other improvements detailed above.
The purpose of both of these measures was to encourage the spouses or partners of social assistance recipients generally to take up employment. It is not possible, at this stage, to estimate the cost of disregarding all spousal income in the case of disability allowance or other social assistance schemes.
I am always prepared to consider changes to existing arrangements where these are for the benefit of recipients and financially sustainable within the resources available to me. Proposals involving additional expenditure must be considered in a budgetary context.
Jerry Cowley
Question:240 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will extend free travel to older Irish emigrants, at the very least to Irish pensioners living in the UK when they return here on holiday and in view of the fact that there is a common travel area between Ireland and the UK, which pre-dates the formation of the EU and that they are in receipt of an Irish pension and of the recent announcement that Irish persons abroad will receive the President’s 100th birthday cheque; his views on whether there is no legal, moral or financial impediment to grant this concession to Irish emigrants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30286/06]
The free travel scheme is available to all people living in the State aged 66 years or over. All carers in receipt of carer's allowance and carers of people in receipt of constant attendance or prescribed relative's allowance, regardless of their age, receive a free travel pass. It is also available to people under age 66 who are in receipt of certain disability type welfare payments, such as disability allowance, invalidity pension and blind person's pension. People resident in the State who are in receipt of a social security invalidity or disability payment from a country covered by EU Regulations, or from a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement, and who have been in receipt of this payment for at least 12 months, are also eligible for free travel.
There have been a number of requests and enquiries in relation to the extension of entitlement to free travel in Ireland to Irish born people living outside Ireland, or to those in receipt of pensions from my Department, particularly in the UK when they return to Ireland for a visit. I have been advised that it would not be possible to extend entitlement to free travel simply to Irish born people living abroad as to do so would be contrary to European legislation which prohibits discrimination on the grounds of nationality.
I have raised the issue with the European Commissioner for Employment and Social Affairs. In addition, officials from my Department have met with European Commission officials on two occasions in an effort to clarify the legal issues involved. I am keeping this issue under review and contacts with the European Commission are ongoing.
In relation to the centenarian's bounty, the Government has approved in principle the extension of the scheme for the payment of the centenarians' bounty to any Irish citizen who was born in the island of Ireland, regardless of where he or she may currently reside. Up to now the bounty, which currently amounts to €2,500, was payable only to centenarians living in the State. The bounty is a discretionary grant and not a service or scheme and accordingly it does not come within the scope of the EU Treaty. In this way, it differs from the proposed extension of the free travel scheme.
Michael Ring
Question:241 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if people can undertake a course (details supplied) of part-time study and continue signing on for credits or unemployment payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30287/06]
Social Welfare legislation provides that a person must be available for and genuinely seeking work in order to be entitled to an unemployment payment or to sign for credits. Any person who fails to satisfy these conditions on an on-going basis is not entitled to an unemployment payment or credits. Persons who participate in part-time courses of education may retain their unemployment payment provided the conditions for receipt of the unemployment payment are fulfilled and they demonstrate that their participation does not restrict their availability for work.
Social Welfare Appeals.
Michael Ring
Question:242 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an unemployment appeal will be finalised for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [30326/06]
The unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned was disallowed with effect from 27 January 2006 on the grounds that he was not genuinely seeking work. He appealed this decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. The Appeals Officer upheld the Deciding Officer's decision and the person concerned was notified accordingly on 6 June 2006. If his circumstances have changed, it is open to the person concerned to re-apply for unemployment assistance. He does not have a current claim. However, he is currently in receipt of supplementary welfare allowance at the weekly rate of EUR 165.80. Under Social Welfare legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:243 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has made his decision to award full occupational injury benefit to all sufferers of pneumoconiosis; his views on whether a case exists for compensation based on the degree to which sufferers health and quality of life has been affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30383/06]
Pneumoconiosis is a prescribed disease for the purpose of the occupational injuries benefit scheme administered by my Department. Occupational injuries benefit is payable to people with pneumoconiosis on the same basis as to people with other prescribed conditions.
Disablement benefit, payable under the occupational injuries scheme, is a compensation payment for loss of faculty arising out of or in the course of insurable employment. The legislation provides entitlement to benefit for persons suffering from certain prescribed diseases which are listed in the legislation and where that person has contracted that disease in the course of their employment.
Where a person has contracted one of the diseases listed in the legislation, benefits are payable if they were employed in an occupation which is specifically prescribed in relation to that disease. In addition, benefits may be payable if the claimant can show that the disease was contracted through an employment not specifically prescribed in relation to that disease.
Persons claiming occupational injuries benefit in cases of Pneumoconiosis are referred to Consultant Respiratory Physicians in the first instance for an examination and report. This examination consists of a clinical assessment and pulmonary function testing (PFT). Disablement benefit is awarded on the basis of the consultant's report, including the pulmonary function test result. The degree of disablement is expressed as a percentage of loss of faculty and the compensation payable varies accordingly.
Loss of faculty may be determined within a range of less than 1% to 100%, depending on the severity of the condition. With regard to the 21 persons currently in receipt of disablement benefit as a result of contracting pneumoconiosis from their occupation the percentage of disablement assessed ranges from 8% to 90%. A person must be assessed as having a minimum of 20% loss of faculty before they may be considered as being incapable of work due to their disablement. These arrangements apply generally and there are no plans for special arrangements in the case of pneumoconiosis.
Rail Network.
Jerry Cowley
Question:244 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Transport his plans to provide additional funding for the extension of the Western Rail Corridor; his views on whether that, logistically, this is extremely good value, that is urgently needed in the West of Ireland; his further views on whether this is something which should be continued to completion, now that the Ennis to Athenry section has been announced; if, under the current plans, he will give a completion date for the entire project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30267/06]
The development of the Western Rail Corridor from Ennis to Claremorris was included as a priority project under Transport 21, with provision also for the preservation of the line from Claremorris to Collooney. This was confirmed recently in Towards 2016, the new Partnership Agreement.
Transport 21 provides for the re-opening of the corridor on a phased basis, in line with the recommendations of the Report by the Expert Working Group on the Western Rail Corridor chaired by Mr. Pat McCann. The Ennis to Athenry section is to be completed in 2008, the Athenry to Tuam section in 2011 and the Tuam to Claremorris section in 2014.
Yesterday, I announced Government approval for funding for the development of the first phase of the Western Rail Corridor from Ennis to Athenry. I have asked Irish Rail to proceed now with the detailed planning and design of the project, with a view to commencing track renewal in mid-2007 and completing the project in 2008. I also announced that, subject to some further studies to be completed by Irish Rail, the Government has approved funding in principle for the development of phase 2 of the corridor between Athenry and Tuam, scheduled for completion by 2011.
In relation to phase 3 of the project, the development of the section from Tuam to Claremorris, I expect to receive business case proposals from Irish Rail at the appropriate time and in accordance with the timetable announced under Transport 21. In addition, on 18 September last, my Cabinet colleague Minister Ó Cuív announced that funding for the preservation of the Claremorris to Collooney section of the corridor would be provided under the CLÁR Programme.
Light Rail Project.
Eamon Ryan
Question:245 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to make a decision regarding the development of an over-ground connection between the two existing Luas lines in Dublin city centre; and the expected timetable for the construction of such a link. [30291/06]
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) is the State Agency with responsibility for the implementation of the Luas/Metro Rail Projects contained in Transport 21. The RPA began a public consultation on five potential routes for linking the two existing Luas lines in the city centre in November 2005. This consultation is ongoing. I understand that the RPA is engaged in dialogue with the City Council, Dublin Bus and the Dublin Transportation Office in relation to the implications of the potential routes for other road users. Subject to satisfactory outcome of those discussions, the RPA expect to identify a preferred option in November 2006 and following this an application for a Railway Order will be made.
Construction timescale will be dependent on the route chosen following the public consultation and the discussions with stakeholders.
Rural Transport Services.
Paddy McHugh
Question:246 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Transport if he will put in place a public transport service in north east Galway similar to that available in south east Galway to cater for the needs of elderly persons with no transportation of their own to local towns and services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30293/06]
The Rural Transport Initiative (RTI) is a pilot scheme, under which funding is made available to thirty-four community-based organisations across the country, including one project which is operational in south east Galway, to address the transport needs of their rural areas through the provision of local transport services.
Pobal administers the initiative on behalf of the Department of Transport, and makes specific allocations to individual project groups from funding provided by the Department. Neither the Minister for Transport nor his Department have any function in relation to specific allocations to individual project groups. Similarly, Pobal, together with the individual RTI project groups, are solely responsible for all the operational aspects of the initiative, including the specific services to be provided and the methods of provision.
Following the success of the pilot phase of the RTI, my colleague the Minister for Transport announced his intention to conclude this phase at the end of 2006 and to put the Initiative on a permanent footing from 2007 onwards. Proposals in that regard have recently been the focus of a public consultation process and the Department will now proceed to finalise its policy options with due consideration for the comments received. In developing proposals for the roll-out of the RTI post-2006, the Department will pay particular attention to the transport needs of rural communities that do not currently have access to public transport.
The Department has been steadily increasing the funding for the RTI in recent years. Euro 4.5 million was provided for the RTI in 2005, which was a 50% increase on the 2004 allocation while the 2006 allocation is Euro 5.1 million. By the end of 2006 total funding for the initiative will have exceeded Euro 18.5 million. This compares with the original proposed allocation of Euro 4.4 million in the National Development Plan 2000-2006.
Based on the 2005 allocation of Euro 4.5 million, and in parallel with the implementation of the Government's ten-year Transport Investment Framework, Transport 21, the Department will double the cash funding available to the RTI by 2007. Thereafter, the funding available for rural transport services will steadily increase; ultimately to a cash level about four times the 2005 allocation.
Regional Airports.
John Deasy
Question:247 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Transport if he has received a proposal from the board of Waterford Regional Airport to extend the runway at that airport; if he will provide funding for the proposed extension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30213/06]
On 30 June, 2006 my Department launched a new Capital Expenditure Grant Scheme for the six regional airports involving a budget of €65 million in respect of the period up to the end of 2010. The scheme was drawn up in the light of the EU Commission's legally-binding guidelines on funding of airports which were published in December 2005.
All of the regional airports have responded to my Department's invitation to submit applications for capital funding under the scheme. The proposal to which the Deputy refers was included in the submissions received. Those submissions will be assessed and prioritised by my Department with the assistance of expert advice and I expect to be in a position to announce the allocation of funding to the individual airports in November.
John Deasy
Question:248 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Transport if his Department’s guidelines for funding of regional airports have been formally notified to the EU Commission for clearance; if the Commission has given clearance to the guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30214/06]
On 30 June, 2006 my Department launched two new schemes to provide Exchequer funding for the regional airports. The Capital Expenditure Grant Scheme involves a budget of €65 million in respect of assistance for capital projects at these airports in the period up to the end of 2010. The Core Airport Management Operational Expenditure Subvention Scheme provides for financial assistance, calculated on an annual basis, towards operational expenditure incurred in the provision of core airport services which cannot be fully recovered from the normal revenue streams otherwise available to the regional airports.
While informal discussions with the relevant Commission officials suggested that the two schemes were fully in compliance with the guidelines, in the interest of legal certainty they were formally notified to the Commission for definitive approval. I am now advised that the operational expenditure subvention scheme is considered by the Commission to be exempt from the need for such notification and consequently, does not require formal approval and may proceed as planned. In the case of the capital grant scheme, the Commission decided on 26th September to approve the scheme as submitted.
Meanwhile, all of the regional airports have submitted applications for funding under the new schemes. These will be assessed by my Department with the assistance of expert advice and I expect to be in a position to announce the allocations to the individual airports in November.
Railway Stations.
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:249 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the progress on the provision of a new railway station on the northern side of Drogheda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30215/06]
The location of stations on the rail network is a matter for Iarnród Éireann. The company informs me that there are currently no plans to open a new station on the north side of Drogheda and that any new station in that location would have to be supported by major development taking place within its catchment area.
Road Safety.
Jerry Cowley
Question:250 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Transport when a special roads investigation unit will be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30216/06]
The primary immediate investigative role in relation to road accidents is vested in the Garda Síochána. Priority in such an investigation must be given to the determination of the causes of road accidents and in particular whether a breach of the Road Traffic laws contributed to the occurrence.
The Garda Síochána is the body empowered to make such a determination and to launch criminal proceedings against any person who the Garda consider should be accused of the commission of an offence. Garda reports on these investigations are forwarded to the National Roads Authority and subsequently to each local authority for the purpose of the establishment of accident trends and causes generally and to facilitate the carrying out of remedial works relating to road infrastructure where such action is deemed to be necessary.
The Road Safety Authority now has responsibility for road safety research and statistical collection. This will result in a more integrated approach to road safety policy generally, with one agency responsible for road safety research, statistical data, advertising, education and recommendations regarding road safety policy. I do not intend at present to propose any changes to the position outlined above.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:251 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Transport if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30240/06]
My Department is profiled to expend the full allocation of moneys provided under Vote 32 in the Revised Estimates Volume in 2006 and approved by the Dail Select Committee on Transport.
Road Safety.
Róisín Shortall
Question:252 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the number of reported road traffic collisions in respect of a road (details supplied) in Dublin 9 in each of the past five years for which figures are available; the reported road traffic collisions resulting in road death; the reported road traffic collisions resulting in serious injury; the reported road traffic collisions resulting in minor injury; and the reported road traffic collisions involving pedestrians.. [30333/06]
The functions assigned to the newly established Road Safety Authority include a mandate in relation to the collection and collation of all relevant data and statistics.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:253 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport if, regarding driving licences, he has proposals to introduce restricted driving licences, which would be restricted in terms of speed and no alcohol consumption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30393/06]
I have no plans to introduce restricted driving licences, which would be restricted in terms of speed and no alcohol consumption. Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006, it is open to the Road Safety Authority to make recommendations in relation to the promotion of better driving standards and to draw up road safety programmes. Should the RSA make such a recommendation which was shown to have road safety benefits consideration would be given to it in the context of an overall road safety strategy.
Question No. 254 answered with QuestionNo. 26.
Public Transport.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:255 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if it is intended to extend bus services to the outer boundaries of new development areas with a view to facilitating the growing population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30395/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Dáil Questions Nos. 19, 32, 55 and 100 regarding additional buses for Dublin Bus. These buses, together with the new buses to be purchased by Bus Éireann, will facilitate the expansion and extension of services to serve new developments. The detailed deployment of the additional buses, including the areas and routes to be served and the frequency of service is a matter for the companies having regard to the level of demand and resources available to them.
Rail Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:256 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent by which it is expected to increase the use of the commuter rail services throughout County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30396/06]
The provision of turnback facilities at Newbridge, the extension of platforms at Sallins and Hazelhatch and the introduction of new rolling stock on the Kildare route as part of the increased investment in Public Transport under the NDP have increased capacity on the Kildare route by 160%.
The second rail line servicing county Kildare, the Maynooth line, also saw record growth through the 1990s and this decade, and capacity there has been more than trebled in the last five years. The doubling of the track between Maynooth and Clonsilla, resignalling the line and upgrading stations and crossings has trebled capacity on the Maynooth line.
The following projects being funded under Transport 21 will further improve rail services in the Kildare area
The Docklands station, to open next year, will facilitate extra services on the Maynooth line.
The introduction of a fleet of modern intercity railcars to be delivered in the period 2007 to 2009 will release commuter railcars currently being used on intercity routes such as Sligo-Dublin and Rosslare-Dublin for use, inter alia, on the Maynooth line.
The Kildare Route Project, which involves four tracking a section of track from Cherry Orchard to Hazlehatch, will enable the separation of long distance and commuter services thus reducing travel times and offering operational flexibility to increase the amount of services provided. As part of that project, upgraded stations and increased parking capacity are to be provided.
Question No. 257 answered with QuestionNo. 88.
Railway Stations.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:258 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the progress which has taken place over the past three months in regard to proposals to increase car parking facilities for commuters using Monasterevin, Kildare, Newbridge, Sallins and Hazelhatch rail stations; if his attention has been drawn to the need to provide extra car parking at or adjacent to rail stations in order to facilitate commuters wishing to use the train; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30398/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:259 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the progress which has taken place in regard to proposals to increase car parking facilities for rail commuters using the Kilcock, Maynooth, Leixlip and Confey rail stations in view of the ever increasing numbers who wish to commute by rail but cannot obtain car parking; his plan to bring forward proposals to provide park and ride facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30399/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:261 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to improve the feeder bus service to all commuter rail stations particularly in the absence of adequate car parking in the vicinity of rail stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30402/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 258, 259 and 261 together.
Feeder bus services to and car parking facilities to/from commuter rail stations are operational matters for Iarnród Éireann and I have no function in relation to them. As regards Park and Ride facilities, I refer the Deputy to my previous reply, reference 29994.06, which sets out the position regarding funding available through the DTO for Park and Ride facilities.
Dublin Port Tunnel.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:260 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the position in regard to the opening and operation of the Port Tunnel with particular reference to access to the tunnel for traffic from the M11, N11, M7, N7, M9, N9, M4 and N4; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30401/06]
At the outset I should explain that overall responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned. I have no function in relation to the day-to-day operation of these projects.
Traffic management in general is a matter for the appropriate local authority and the traffic management and control arrangements that will apply following the opening of the Dublin Port Tunnel are matters for Dublin City Council and the NRA.
Question No. 261 answered with QuestionNo. 258.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:262 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the position in regard to access to the Port Tunnel for supertrucks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30403/06]
As the Deputy is aware the Dublin Port Tunnel will have an operational height of 4.65m.
Preparation and adoption of the HGV Management Strategy to ensure optimum use of the Dublin Port Tunnel by HGV traffic is a matter for Dublin City Council. I understand that this Strategy will deal with a range of issues relating to HGVs, including the use of over-height vehicles within the planned cordon through the operation of a permit system.
Public Transport.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:263 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the provisions which are being made in the context of Transport 21 for bus shelters, having particular regard to the tragic accidents that have taken place at such locations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30404/06]
The provision of bus shelters is a matter for bus operators and the relevant local authority.
Inland Waterways.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:264 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if warnings have been issued to a company (details supplied) regarding the need to ensure adequate pump out facilities for waste matter from its boats. [30222/06]
Waterways Ireland is a North-South Implementation Body set up under the British-Irish Agreement in 1999, with responsibility for the management, maintenance, development and restoration of inland navigable waterways principally for recreation purposes.
The practice of discharging waste material into the navigation in question is expressly prohibited under Waterways Ireland's Byelaws and all users of the navigation are expected to behave in a responsible manner by utilising the network of pump-out facilities that have been provided in recent years along the system in co-operation with the local authorities.
Waterways Ireland is investigating a specific complaint at present regarding an alleged illegal discharge of polluting matter directly into the navigation. When the inquiries have been completed a decision will be made on how to proceed in the matter.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:265 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30229/06]
As the Deputy is aware, details of my Department's expenditure allocations for 2006 are included in the Revised Estimates Volume 2006, which was published earlier this year and sets out the allocation of some €478m across five expenditure areas, broadly as follows:
|
Administration |
€m |
|
Administration |
19 |
|
An Ghaeilge agus an Ghaeltacht |
103 |
|
Community Affairs |
208 |
|
Rural Affairs |
99 |
|
Other Services |
49 |
The progress of spending across the Vote is monitored on a continuous basis in order to ensure the optimal use of the available financial resources. It is currently anticipated that expenditure across the Vote in 2006 will be broadly on target.
Teanga Ghaeilge.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:266 D’fhiafraigh Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cathain atá sé i gceist aige rialacháin a dhéanamh faoi alt 9 d’Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla, 2003, lena chinntiú go mbeidh foirmeacha dátheangacha ar fáil don phobal ó chomhlachtaí poiblí mar ghnáthnós agus go mbeidh comharthaí a gcaitear airgead poiblí orthu dátheangach mar ghnáthnós faoi mar a tharlaíonn i dtíortha dátheangacha eile. [30273/06]
Tá sé i gceist agam dréacht de na Rialacháin seo a leagan faoi bhráid gach Tí den Oireachtas go han-luath chun deis a thabhairt do Theachtaí agus Seanadóirí iad a phlé agus leasuithe a mholadh, más mian leo, sula ndéanfaidh mé iad a shiniú.
Ní miste dom a chur in iúl don Teachta, áfach, nach dtagann foirmeacha faoi scáth alt 9(1) den Acht. Is amhlaidh go bhfuil soláthar foirmeacha ar cheann de na hábhair a clúdaítear faoi na scéimeanna teanga a bhíonn le haontú idir mise, mar Aire, agus comhlachtaí poiblí de réir fhorálacha alt 11 den Acht.
Grant Payments.
Jack Wall
Question:267 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position of an application (details supplied) for funding from the Dormant Accounts Fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30297/06]
In August 2004, the Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board approved a grant for the group concerned totalling €81,226 for the purpose of employing a youth worker to work with young people at risk of early school leaving. The Board engaged Pobal to administer its funding programme. To date, €13,066 has been drawn down and the balance of €68,160 will be paid as and when the group submits progress reports to Pobal as provided for in their contract with the Board. Given the amount yet to be drawn down by the group in question, it seems premature to be considering further funding.
I should say that regarding the projects approved by the former Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board, I am keen to ensure that where such projects demonstrate strong impacts in tackling disadvantage, full consideration is given by the relevant Departments to their possible mainstreaming. My Department is in contact with other departments in this regard.
Gerard Murphy
Question:268 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status of an application by a school (details supplied) in County Cork; when a decision will be made on this application; if the school satisfy criteria of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30298/06]
The school referred to by the Deputy recently submitted an application for funding under the CLÁR Primary School Outdoor Play Facilities Enhancement Scheme.
My Department is currently processing a large volume of applications on behalf of schools throughout the country and the school in question will be informed of the outcome of their application as soon as possible.
Seymour Crawford
Question:269 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if it is necessary for a farmer to have a flock number or a herd number to join REPS; the EU regulation regarding this; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30176/06]
The EU Regulations governing the Rural Environment Protection Scheme (REPS) stipulate that payment under the scheme can be made only on land parcels declared on the Integrated Administration and Control System (IACS) and accordingly this requires the land to be declared in an application under the Single Payment Scheme in the first instance.
The identification number used for the Single Payment application, which is the herd, flock or cereal number, is acceptable for REPS.
Milk Quota.
Martin Ferris
Question:270 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food to make a statement on EU Commissioner Fischer’s statement on the likelihood of milk quotas being eliminated after 2013. [30177/06]
As the Deputy will be aware the current milk quota arrangements were extended until the end of the 2014/15 milk quota year as part of the 2003 Luxembourg Agreement on the reform of the CAP. While a review will take place in 2008, any further proposals for reform are a matter for the EU Commission, while the Council will make decisions on such proposals. Should the Commission come forward with further proposals in the milk sector I will participate fully in the Council to ensure that the best interests of the Irish dairy sector are protected.
Departmental Budget.
Phil Hogan
Question:271 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the moneys allocated to her Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if she has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by her Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30226/06]
My Department's Revised Estimate for 2006 is €1,516.9 million (gross). This includes a capital carryover from 2005 of €18.3 million and an Administrative budget carryover of €8.7m. On the basis of expenditure to date, it would appear that almost all of the funds allocated to my department this year will be spent, but that there may be some savings on demand led schemes.
My Department will continue to carefully monitor expenditure as the year progresses, but it is too early at this stage to be certain about the final outturn for the year. Most of my Department's expenditure relates to demand-led schemes, animal disease control measures and technical and financial costs relating to intervention. As this expenditure depends on external factors such as demand, market conditions and animal disease levels, it is difficult to predict budgetary needs and outturns with precision. In addition, under multi annual administrative budget and capital envelope arrangements agreed with the Department of Finance, savings can be carried over into 2007 to meet needs arising next year.
Direct Payment Schemes.
Michael Lowry
Question:272 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reasons a farmer (details supplied) in County Tipperary was not paid their correct allocation of entitlement under the single farm payment; the reasons for reduction in payment of 2005 Single Payment; when full payment will be issued to the person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30241/06]
The person named submitted an application under the Single Payment Scheme on 15 May 2005. The applicant established 33.14 standard entitlements and 1.72 set-aside entitlements having submitted a successful application as a New Entrant. In addition he received 17.49 standard entitlements and 1.59 set-aside entitlements by way of a Private Contract Clause (lease).
In accordance with the provisions of the relevant EU Regulations one eligible hectare must be declared in respect of each entitlement held in order to benefit from full payment under the Single Payment Scheme. The person named submitted sufficient eligible hectares to draw down his full set-aside payment but not enough hectares to draw down full payment on his standard entitlements. The payment made to the person named was correctly calculated taking into account the shortfall of 7.88 hectares in his declared hectares in respect of 2005.
Grant Payments.
Denis Naughten
Question:273 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 234 of 29 September 2004, the grant aid returned to her Department by the company; the grant aid paid to the company in the past 10 years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30260/06]
My Department, in conjunction with Enterprise Ireland, has been examining the position regarding contingent liabilities arising from the closure of the plant at Rooskey, Co. Roscommon. The total amount paid by my Department in the past ten years to the Company was €390,000.
Discussions are on-going between Enterprise Ireland and the Company on the possible level of liability arising from the decision to discontinue the slaughtering and boning activities at Rooskey, while retaining and developing the cannery operations from the Rooskey site, and having regard to the company's other significant capital investment in the Irish pork sector.
As the issues are complex, the discussions and examination have taken some time. Progress has been made and it is anticipated that a conclusion will be reached in the near future. Where any amounts are identified as due, the process of recovery will follow.
In the meantime Enterprise Ireland is endeavouring to stimulate further investment at the Rooskey plant. Discussions are at an earlystage and have yet to be comprehensively developed.
EU Directives.
Denis Naughten
Question:274 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the status of the animal remedies regulations; the discussions to date with the EU on the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30262/06]
Denis Naughten
Question:275 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the status of the implementation of the animal medicines regulations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30263/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 274 and 275 together.
The Animal Remedies Regulations 2005, which came into effect in November 2005, transposed into Irish legislation EU Directive 2004/28. This Directive includes a general requirement that all medicines for food-producing animals may only be supplied on the basis of a veterinary prescription from 1 January 2007, unless exempted from this requirement under criteria to be adopted at EU level.
The Commission has recently circulated its formal proposals for exemption criteria and these are due to be considered by Member States at a meeting of the relevant standing committee on 11 October. While the proposals are still being considered in detail within my Department and in the Irish Medicines Board, it is clear that, on the basis of an initial examination, the latest proposals represent a considerable improvement over the Commission's initial draft published in February last in that they provide a much greater degree of flexibility to regulatory bodies, such as IMB, in determining the routes of supply for individual products based on scientific evaluation of the risk/benefit analysis.
The objective of my Department continues to be to secure exemption criteria which will facilitate the retention of off-prescription status in Ireland for the existing range of products and hopefully this issue will be finally resolved on 11 October. As I have indicated in the past, if the exemption criteria adopted by the EU necessitate the re-classification of veterinary medicines as prescription only products, I will make provision for suitable persons to prescribe the new prescription-only products.
Grant Payments.
Brian O'Shea
Question:276 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Waterford last had a suckler quota; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30294/06]
There is no record in my Department to show that the person named ever held a quota under the Suckler Cow Premium Scheme.
Afforestation Programme.
Gerard Murphy
Question:277 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a farmer can partially opt out of a forestry scheme if the farmer discovers that some of that land is required to make their farm enterprise viable. [30295/06]
Applications to remove land from forestry are examined on a case-by-case basis by the Forest Service of my Department, and are subject to the conditions of the existing schemes and legislation.
Grant Payments.
Gerard Murphy
Question:278 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a recent decision which refused installation aid to a person (details supplied) in County Cork will re reviewed. [30296/06]
The person concerned is ineligible for aid under the Installation Aid Scheme as he was over 35 years of age when set up in farming. Despite the tragic family circumstances force majeure does not apply in this case as it was over a year later when the person concerned received the family farm. The applicant has been advised of his right to appeal the decision concerned to the Agriculture Appeals Office.
Willie Penrose
Question:279 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath has not been paid the single farm payment for 2005 and the area aid for 2005 in view of the fact that all relevant information in respect of the land-holding has been sent to her Department; the steps she will take to ensure that this payment which is critical for the ongoing viability of the farm is immediately paid out to this person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30334/06]
An application under the 2005 Single Payment Scheme was received in the name of the father of the person named on 9 May 2005. The person named subsequently advised my Department of the death of the applicant. While some documentation was submitted in this regard, it is insufficient to allow payment to the person named. I have now arranged for an official of my Department to make direct contact with the person named with a view to having this matter satisfactorily resolved.
Higher Education Grants.
Michael Ring
Question:280 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the financial assistance available for mature students who hold an initial degree and wish to pursue a masters degree in this country. [30181/06]
For the purpose of replying to the Deputy I understand the question relates to mature students who hold an undergraduate degree and are progressing to postgraduate level courses, for the first time, at Masters Degree level.
Under the terms of my Department's Third Level Maintenance Grant Schemes, which are administered on behalf of the Department by the Local Authorities and the Vocational Education Committees, the position is that generally speaking, students who are entering approved courses for the first time are eligible for grants where they satisfy the relevant conditions as to residence, age, means, nationality and previous academic attainment. An approved course for the purpose of the Schemes means a full-time undergraduate course of not less than two years duration and full time postgraduate course of not less that one years duration pursued in an approved institution.
Under the terms of the Department's maintenance grants schemes, and in accordance with the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Act 1992, a mature student is defined as a candidate who is at least 23 years of age on the 1st January of the year of entry or re-entry to an approved course.
Mature students are categorised as either independent mature students or mature students dependent on parents or guardians. An independent mature student is defined as meaning a mature student who was not ordinarily resident at home with his/her parents or guardians from the October preceding their entry to an approved course. Independent mature students are assessed without reference to either their parents' or guardians' income or address.
Under the terms of the Third Level Student Support Schemes, a student is not eligible for grant assistance in respect of a second period of study at the same level, irrespective of whether a grant was paid previously. The schemes also provide that grants may not be paid to candidates who already hold a postgraduate qualification and are pursuing a second postgraduate qualification. Notwithstanding this condition, candidates who already hold a postgraduate qualification and are progressing to a further postgraduate course which represents progression from the level at which the previous postgraduate qualification(s) was attained, may be deemed eligible for grant aid.
However, tax relief is available in respect of postgraduate fees paid in publicly funded colleges here and in other EU Member States, as well as in private colleges in the State. This relief applies at the standard rate of tax and is available to full time and part time postgraduate students. Further details and conditions in relation to this tax relief are available from local Tax Offices.
The decision on eligibility for third level grants is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is desired.
Under my Department's Free Fees Initiative the Exchequer meets the tuition fees of eligible students who are attending approved full-time undergraduate courses in the State. The Free Fees Initiative does not extend to postgraduate study.
School Accommodation.
Catherine Murphy
Question:281 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the school it is intended that a child (details supplied) will be accommodated in considering that they will reach the age of six in October 2006 and have as yet not been allocated a suitable school place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30182/06]
The National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is actively engaged in identifying a suitable school placement for the child referred to by the Deputy. As an interim measure pending his placement he is in receipt of home tuition.
Schools Building Projects.
Michael Ring
Question:282 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the position with the provision of a new school (details supplied) in County Mayo; when this project will progress to tender and construction stages; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30183/06]
The acquisition of a site for the school in question is at conveyancing stage and when this transaction is complete Planning Permission will be sought for the project. It is envisaged that construction will begin in the first half of 2007.
Irish Language.
Joe Higgins
Question:283 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will require UCD to reinstate the BA Evening Course in Irish. [30184/06]
The position is that the universities are autonomous institutions and my Department does not have any function in their day to day operational affairs. The universities receive a block grant from the Higher Education Authority and it is a matter for each institution to determine how it is allocated internally.
Pupil-Teacher Ratio.
Catherine Murphy
Question:284 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to reduce the pupil teacher ratio in primary schools located in rapidly developing areas as identified in the Census 2006 Preliminary Report; if provision is being made for new accommodation and teaching resources for such areas; the timeframe envisaged for delivery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30185/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, major improvements have been made in staffing at both primary and post-primary level in recent years. At the beginning of the current school year there are no less than 4000 extra teachers in our primary schools, compared with 2002. The average class size in our primary schools is 24 and there is now one teacher for 17 pupils at primary level, including resource teachers etc.
Children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas are getting more support than ever before to help them to make the most of their time at school. Indeed, with the thousands of extra primary teachers hired by this Government, recent years have seen the largest expansion in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education. Over the next two school years even more teachers will be put in place both for the above priority areas of disadvantage and special education and also under a reduction in the mainstream staffing schedule.
As the Deputy knows all primary schools are staffed on a general rule of at least one classroom teacher for every 28 children. Of course, schools with only one or two teachers have much lower staffing ratios than that — with two teachers for just 12 pupils in some cases and so on — but the general rule is that there is at least one classroom teacher for every 28 children in the school. Next year (2007/2008 school year) this is being reduced to 27 children per classroom teacher.
A further initiative that has been of direct benefit to primary schools has been the change in the criteria for developing schools. For the current school year the threshold for getting a developing school post was reduced specifically to help schools that are seeing large increases in enrolments each year, as is the case in many schools. Some 170 such posts were sanctioned in the 2005/06 school year, compared with 105 in 2004/05.
The demand for additional accommodation in schools has risen significantly over the last number of years mainly due to the rapid expansion in teacher numbers particularly in the area of special needs, the growth in the school-going population in rapidly developing areas including the impact of inward migration and the demands to cater for diversity through the recognition of new Gaelscoileanna and Educate Together schools.
In planning for school provision to meet these demands the Department has adopted an area based approach which involves a public consultation process involving all interested parties. This leads to the production of a blueprint for schools' development in an area for a timeframe of approximately ten years. The exercise recently completed on the N4-M4 corridor is an example of this and the rapidly developing areas of north Dublin, south Louth and east Meath are being examined this year. This structured process will ensure a more proactive approach to school planning than had been the case in the past.
Apart from the area development planning process the Department is also proactively engaged with local authorities on a continual basis in relation to specific areas. This is being done through improved contacts and communication protocols to ensure that the Department is better alerted about new and expanding residential areas and afforded an opportunity to ensure appropriate zoning provision for educational purposes.
For example in the case of the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) at Adamstown the Department is working closely with South Dublin County Council and the developers to produce an integrated solution to education and community facilities that matches the delivery of new housing. Under the SDZ arrangements there is a requirement that schools are in position ahead of or in line with demand, and I think it is one that should be adopted by other planning authorities in relation to major new housing schemes.
The Department is working particularly closely with Fingal County Council to develop a joint approach to the timely provision of schools in an area of the country subject to extremely rapid development. This work is providing innovative approaches to partnership which I believe can be used to advantage across the country in future.
The Department prioritises school buildings for rapidly developing areas. This is achieved by assigning them a band one priority rating under the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. Whenever possible, the Department implements a standardised design model or a design and build process to fast track delivery of the buildings themselves. Not alone does this result in speedier delivery of projects but it also achieves savings in design fees and land use arising from the use of the two storey design. Among schools completed using one of these processes is Griffeen Valley in Lucan which was completed in a 13 month timeframe.
The level of work being done under the schools building programme is at an all-time high. While increased investment is a central reason for this — €500m this year alone — radical changes in how projects are planned and managed have also made a major difference in ensuring that provision is delivered in line with or ahead of demand.
Site Acquisitions.
Catherine Murphy
Question:285 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science if a location has been identified for a new second level school in the north west Kildare region, the need for which was identified in the N4 M4 Project; her plans to proceed on this; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30186/06]
Four areas in Kildare were addressed under the Department's Local Area Development Plan for the N4/M4 corridor and it is unclear which of these the Deputy is specifically referring to. Under the plan, recommendations were made for site reservations in three of the areas covered namely, Celbridge, Maynooth and Kilcock. The plan indicates that these schools will not be required until post 2011. The Department will be seeking site reservations for these schools in the context of local authority area development plans at the appropriate time.
Physical Education Facilities.
Jerry Cowley
Question:286 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Education and Science if the promised funding announced for a sports hall at a college (details supplied) in County Mayo will be allocated immediately; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30187/06]
I am pleased to confirm that I have authorised the PE Hall project for this school to progress through architectural planning and on to tender and construction as soon as all stages of the planning process are complete. The stage 4/5 submission (Detail design and Bill of Quantities) is currently being examined in the Department and once that process is complete, the project will progress to tender and construction.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:287 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if the moneys allocated to her Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if she has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by her Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30231/06]
My Department monitors its expenditure on a continual basis throughout the year. At this point in the year it is predicted that the overall voted allocation will be fully and appropriately spent. The likely end of year position and the requirement for a supplementary estimate, if necessary, will be carefully considered over the coming months
Departmental Correspondence.
Denis Naughten
Question:288 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science further to correspondence (details supplied), if she will furnish a response to the queries raised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30264/06]
I will issue a reply to the Deputy regarding the matters referred to in the details supplied as soon as possible.
School Staffing.
Denis Naughten
Question:289 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 222 of 8 June 2006, the status of the review of one-teacher schools; when she expects the review to be concluded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30265/06]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that, as an exceptional matter, I approved the appointment, or retention, where appropriate, of a mainstream teacher in addition to the Principal for the current school year in the schools which had projected that the appropriate number of pupils required (12) for such appointment or retention would be achieved at end September, 2006.
The position of the schools which do not qualify for this concession is being considered in the context of the reports which have been submitted by my Department's Inspectors in relation to them.
Higher Education Grants.
Paul Connaughton
Question:290 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) County Galway is not entitled to a top-up higher education grant in view of the fact that they are a mature student on low income; if her attention has been drawn to the personal sacrifice involved; if her further attention has been drawn to the potential benefits the will accrue to the State when this person will be in a position to be employed in their chosen career; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30274/06]
The candidate referred to by the Deputy was awarded the full non-adjacent rate of grant by Galway County Council. However, she did not qualify for the special rate of maintenance grant for the academic year 2006/07, as neither the candidate nor her partner was in receipt of an eligible Social Welfare payment.
The Deputy will appreciate that the terms of the schemes are of general application and it is not possible to make an exception in individual cases.
School Closures.
Seán Crowe
Question:291 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school closures that have taken place within the Milford electoral area in Donegal within the past ten years. [30276/06]
My Department does not maintain records of school closures by electoral area. The following is a list of primary schools in Co. Donegal that have closed since 1997: Glenvar National School, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, closed 31 August 1997; Ballykerrigan National School, Lifford, Co. Donegal, closed 31 August 1998; Sacred Heart Secondary School, Meánscoil De La Salle and Ballyshannon Vocational School in Ballyshannon, closed 31 August 2000 and amalgamated into the Ballyshannon Community School from September, 2000; St Joseph's National School and Little Angels' National School in Ballyshannon, closed 31 August 2001 and amalgamated into the Holy Family National School from September, 2001; and Tamney Robertson National School, Ramelton, closed 31 August 2001.
Teaching Qualifications.
Seán Crowe
Question:292 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will intervene in the case of a person (details supplied). [30277/06]
Since 28 March 2006 the Teaching Council has been the designated authority for the recognition of qualifications for teaching.
Recognised third level institutions in this country and abroad can apply to have particular qualifications approved for post-primary teaching in this country. Where granted, this approval is referred to as general recognition for teaching at post primary level. Where a third level institution has not applied for and been granted general recognition for a particular qualification, it is open to the individual to apply to the Teaching Council for recognition.
Persons wishing to be registered as a teacher in this country must apply to the Teaching Council for recognition of their qualifications. If their qualifications are recognised by the Teaching Council, then they will be eligible to apply for teaching posts.
As the Teaching Council is the statutorily designated body for the recognition of teachers' qualifications, I have no authority to intervene in such cases.
Schools Building Projects.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:293 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science when a decision will be made on a request from a school (details supplied) in County Limerick for a revision of its band rating in order to precipitate the construction of a permanent school building; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30278/06]
Following consideration of the request from the management authority of the school referred to by the Deputy, my officials have advised the Board that it is not considered that a revision of the band rating is warranted in this case.
The Property Management Section of the OPW, which acts on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally, is engaged in sourcing a site for the school in question. When a site has been acquired, the building project required to deliver the new school will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.
Site Acquisitions.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:294 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if outstanding issues regarding the purchase of a site proposed for a school (details supplied) in Limerick have been resolved; if the site has been purchased by the Office of Public Works; if the project has been considered for approval in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30279/06]
The Property Management section of the Office of Public Works, which acts on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally, has been requested to source a site for the school in question. The OPW is currently liaising with the Planning Department of Limerick County Council in connection with one potential site option. Simultaneously, the OPW is in active negotiations on an alternative potential site option.
On completion of the site acquisition, the project will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.
Physical Education Facilities.
John McGuinness
Question:295 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the provision of an extension and new gymnasium at a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will expedite approval for this much needed project. [30299/06]
The School Planning Section of the Department is in receipt of an application for major capital funding from the school to which the Deputy refers. The long-term projected enrolment for the school is currently being reviewed. When this process has been completed, the project can be considered for progress under the School Building and Modernisation Programme from 2007 onwards.
Schools Building Projects.
Seán Crowe
Question:296 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to a request by an organisation who are looking for a second level Irish school to be located on a site (details supplied); the progress in relation to same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30300/06]
An application for a second level Irish school to be located on the site referred to by the Deputy has been received by the Department. It is currently being considered and contact will be made with the promoters as soon as a decision has been reached in the matter.
Departmental Expenditure.
Jerry Cowley
Question:297 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department intends to increase the investment in second level education here; if her attention has been drawn to the recent OECD report which shows that Ireland is almost at the bottom of the international league in terms of investment in second level education relative to the country’s economic wealth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30301/06]
Willie Penrose
Question:304 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps she will take to ensure that resourcing of second level schools is increased in the context of the forthcoming estimates and Budget to at least the average OECD levels; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30416/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 297 and 304 together.
I assume the Deputies are referring to Ireland's expenditure on education as a proportion of GDP. Deputies will be aware, given the distinctive structure of the Irish economy and specifically, the comparatively high proportion of our GDP that is expatriated as profits of foreign direct investment enterprises, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is not a good indicator of the relative resources available in the case of Ireland. For example, the difference in magnitude between Ireland's GDP and Gross National Income (GNI) was 18% in 2003. This means that standardised expenditure data for Ireland would be higher if GNI (or GNP) were used instead of GDP. For most OECD countries, however, the difference between GDP and GNI is negligible and the vast majority of other countries are quite happy to continue using GDP to standardise international data on expenditure. Department of Education and Science expenditure on education in Ireland in 2003, the reference year used in the latest ‘Education at a Glance' report, represented 4.9% of Gross National Income. This increased to 5.2% in 2005.
The Deputy should also note that spending by my Department on second level education increased by 17% between 2003 and 2005. In 2005, €2.7 billion was spent on second level education — up from €2.3 billion in 2003 and €1.25 billion in 1997.
These increases have allowed for major progress to be made both in the staffing and in the day-to-day funding of our schools.
With regard to staffing, it should be noted that there is now one teacher for every 13 students at second level.
Day-to-day funding for our schools has also increased significantly in recent years. Since the financial year referred to in the OECD report — 2003 — second level schools have benefited from substantial increases in funding. The standard capitation grant of €266 per pupil in 2003 has stood at €298 per pupil from 1 January last. In addition, the support services grant for secondary schools was increased from €127 per pupil in 2003 to €159 per pupil from January last. This per capita grant is in addition to a range of equalisation grants of up to some €15,500 per school per annum that were also approved for voluntary secondary schools.
This Government has dramatically increased investment in education in recent years. However, it is simplistic to just say that increasing spending will result in better outcomes as evidenced by the relatively poor educational outcomes of some high-spending countries. What we all wish to see is the resources targeted towards education being used to best advantage at all levels.
Adult Education.
Jack Wall
Question:298 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans her Department have to address the serious problem of adult literacy; if additional funding will be provided to implement the 28 recommendations contained in the 2006 Report on Adult Literacy by the Joint Committee on Education and Science; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30302/06]
Since my appointment as Minister of State with responsibility for Adult Education, it has been my mission to encourage and support any and all means of increasing literacy levels and basic education throughout the country. Adult Literacy has been the top priority in adult education in my Department for some years now.
Since 1997, funding from my Department for adult literacy has increased incrementally, from €1 million to almost €23 million in 2006. As a consequence, the number of clients catered for annually has increased from 5,000 in 1997 to over 35,000 in 2005.
The growth in the number of adult literacy students has exceeded the target of 18,000 annually set out in the National Development Plan 2000-2006.
This year my Department funded a pilot project on intensive tuition in adult basic education which would help to address the serious problem of adult literacy. The evaluation report of this project is currently being examined. In addition, a family literacy initiative under DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) — An Action Plan in Educational Inclusion is being developed.
Last Sunday, a new TV series "The Really Useful Guide to Words and Numbers" commenced on national television. This programme will target people with literacy and numeracy needs.
"Towards 2016 — Ten Year Framework Social Partnership Agreement 2006 — 2015" includes a further increase in literacy student numbers of 7,000 (6% per annum) over a three-year period to 2009 and also 2,000 BTEI places which will continue to build on existing part-time provision in adult literacy and other Further Education programmes. These additional resources are to be welcomed.
I am currently examining the Report on Adult Literacy in Ireland published by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Education and Science. The 28 recommendations included in the report will be considered in the context of the overall policy of making further improvements in literacy provision nationwide as resources permit.
While significant progress has been, and continues to be, made in addressing the problem of adult literacy, I strongly believe in the value of this sector and am committed to a continuation of the process of substantially reducing the literacy deficit in Irish society by continuing to prioritise it for resources and supports in the years ahead.
School Accommodation.
Jerry Cowley
Question:299 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there are no community facilities available and insufficient school places for the children of the areas where there is high density of housing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30303/06]
The demand for additional accommodation in schools has risen significantly over the last number of years mainly due to the rapid expansion in teacher numbers particularly in the area of special needs, the growth in the school-going population in rapidly developing areas including the impact of inward migration
and the demands to cater for diversity through the recognition of new Gaelscoileanna and Educate Together schools.
In planning for school provision to meet these demands, the Department has adopted an area based approach which involves a public consultation process involving all interested parties. This leads to the production of a blueprint for schools' development in an area for a timeframe of approximately ten years. The exercise recently completed on the N4-M4 corridor is an example of this and the rapidly developing areas of north Dublin, south Louth and east Meath are being examined this year. This structured process will ensure a more proactive approach to school planning than had been the case in the past.
Apart from the area development planning process the Department is also proactively engaged with local authorities on a continual basis in relation to specific areas. This is being done through improved contacts and communication protocols to ensure that the Department is better alerted about new and expanding residential areas and afforded an opportunity to ensure appropriate zoning provision for educational purposes.
For example in the case of the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) at Adamstown the Department is working closely with South Dublin County Council and the developers to produce an integrated solution to education and community facilities that matches the delivery of new housing. Under the SDZ arrangements there is a requirement that schools are in position ahead of or in line with demand, and I think that this is an approach that should be adopted by other planning authorities in relation to major new housing schemes.
The Department is working particularly closely with Fingal County Council to develop a joint approach to the timely provision of schools in an area of the country subject to extremely rapid development. This work is providing innovative approaches to partnership in terms of providing educational infrastructure and shared community facilities in tandem. While the overall model is at the early stages of implementation, already, at Diswellstown, there is a very fine example of what an integrated approach to the delivery of education and community facilities can achieve. The Department looks forward to a broader range of enhanced facilities for school and community use as the model develops at various locations in the Fingal area where it is estimated up to 20 schools will be required in the coming years. I believe this model can be used to advantage across the country in future particularly in the area of shared community facilities.
Apart from the planning process, the Department prioritises school buildings for rapidly developing areas. This is achieved by assigning them a band one priority rating under the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. Whenever possible, the Department implements a standardised design model or a design and build process to fast track delivery of the buildings themselves. Not alone does this result in speedier delivery of projects but it also achieves savings in design fees and land use arising from the use of the two storey design. Among schools completed using one of these processes is Griffeen Valley in Lucan which was completed in a 13 month timeframe.
The level of work being done under the schools building programme is at an all-time high. While increased investment is a central reason for this — €500m this year alone — radical changes in how projects are planned and managed have also made a major difference in ensuring that provision is delivered in line with or ahead of demand.
Schools Building Projects.
Gerard Murphy
Question:300 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the application of a school (details supplied) in County Cork for capital funding towards the provision of an extension to provide ancillary accommodation; the criteria laid down by her Department for this scheme; when the school’s application will be addressed; if the school meets the criteria required; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30304/06]
My Department is in receipt of an application for capital funding towards the provision of additional mainstream classrooms and ancillary accommodation at the school referred to by the Deputy. The school authority has recently been advised that its proposed project may be more suitable for delivery by way of devolved funding under the Small Schools Scheme, 2007 which is specifically targeted at schools having no more than 4 mainstream teachers. The purpose of the scheme is to devolve funding to individual school authorities to undertake building works which will address the school's long term accommodation needs. The Scheme was advertised last month and full details are available on the Department's website at www.education.ie. The school authority has been advised to submit an application under the scheme by the closing date of October 27th 2006. All applications received by that date will be assessed and considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-10.
Higher Education Grants.
Seán Crowe
Question:301 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to a situation regarding a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6W; and if she will intervene in the matter. [30413/06]
The decision on eligibility for third level grants and the issue of grant awards is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is desired. It appears that no such advice or instruction has, to date, been sought in the case of the student, referred to by the Deputy.
Pre-School Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:302 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if a third infant class can be created to cater for children preparing to attend an infant school (details supplied) in County Kildare for school year commencing 2007, in view of the demand for same at present; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30414/06]
Officials in the School Planning Section of my Department will be liaising with the school to which the Deputy refers with a view to providing it with accommodation in line with demand from eligible pupils under its enrolment policy.
Schools Building Projects.
Willie Penrose
Question:303 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the proposed new school (details supplied) in County Westmeath; the timetable for construction of the said school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30415/06]
The building project for the School referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. This School was among 40 Schools that I announced in April of this year to go to tender and construction on a rolling basis over the next 12 to 15 months. My Department's Officials wrote to the School Authorities on the 22nd September 2006 looking for a revised stage 1/2/3 (detailed plans/costs) submission. When a response is forwarded to my Department, my Officials will then be in a position to further progress this project.
Question No. 304 answered with QuestionNo. 297.
Vocational Education Committees.
John McGuinness
Question:305 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science if an application to Kilkenny VEC for a grant for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be approved; if the applicant comes within the back to education scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30417/06]
My Department has been in contact with officials in County Kilkenny Vocational Education Committee concerning the student referred to by the Deputy. I understand that further documentation must be submitted before a decision can be made by Kilkenny VEC in this case. Queries in regard to the Back to Education Scheme should be referred to the Department of Social and Family Affairs as this scheme is relevant to that Department.
Schools Amalgamation.
John McGuinness
Question:306 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of a report on the proposed amalgamation of schools (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if, in view of the fact that the technical report is completed, she will expedite the next phase in the process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30418/06]
School Planning Section is awaiting a report following a technical inspection of the schools to which the Deputy refers. When this has been received and examined, it will be in contact with the schools as to how the proposed project can proceed.
Schools Building Projects.
John McGuinness
Question:307 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress in providing a realistic level of funding for the provision of a new school (details supplied); if meetings between the officials and the board of management proved productive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30419/06]
As the Deputy will probably be aware, the application for large scale capital funding from the school to which he refers was originally considered under the Department's devolved grant scheme. It transpired, however that the scope of the works required to meet the schools long term accommodation needs exceeded the limits of this scheme. In the circumstances, its application has been reverted to the traditional method of delivery. Accordingly, the application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects and it has been assigned a Band 2 rating. Progress on the proposed works is now being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme from 2007 onwards.
Schools Enrolment.
Paul Connaughton
Question:308 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the overcrowding at a school (details supplied) in County Galway; if her further attention has been drawn to the fact that proposals to extend the school have been submitted to her Department; when this application will be approved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30420/06]
I am aware of the school's need for additional accommodation and can advise the Deputy that my Department is grant-aiding the rental costs of two portakabins at the school in order to alleviate short term accommodation difficulties.
My Department is also in receipt of an application for capital funding towards the provision of an extension to the school. An assessment of projected enrolments, demographic trends and housing developments in the area is under way in order to determine the long term projected staffing on which the school's long term accommodation needs will be based. When this assessment is completed a decision will then be taken on how best to provide the required accommodation.
The project will be then considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-10.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:309 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Defence if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30230/06]
At this stage it is not possible to say whether or not there will be savings on the Defence Vote. No savings are expected to arise on the Army Pensions Vote.
Social and Affordable Housing.
Catherine Murphy
Question:310 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the results of the review of the 5-year Action Plans on Social and Affordable Housing by county; if the original targets for these plans have been met; the areas these targets were not met; the strategy he proposes in response to the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30188/06]
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)
In 2004 I sought local authorities to set about the preparation of social and affordable housing action plans to provide a framework for the integrated and cohesive planning and delivery over the coming years of specific social and affordable housing measures in each local authority area. Provision was made with the Department for a mid-term review of the plans to take place in 2006, to take account of both performance and any new policy initiatives.
To facilitate the review my Department has held bilateral meetings with all local authorities to discuss progress, changing needs and targets for the remainder of the Plan. Following the meetings local authorities have submitted review statements, which include commentary on overall performance; noting any significant deviations from the original planned targets and the reasons for such deviations; indicating if the overall targets are still valid in light of the recent Housing Needs Assessment or for other reasons; explaining any proposed changes to the targets for the remaining period of the plan and reviewing the plan in light of developments in areas such as Rental Assistance Scheme (RAS).
At this stage review statements have been received from all local authorities and a preliminary analysis has been carried out. Output figures for a number of schemes need to be clarified. While overall output is below target on some of the schemes, there is considerable optimism that over the full period of the plan, targets will be met. For example, Part V is now starting to gather momentum and has the potential to meet all affordable housing needs in some local authorities, while together with RAS it may overtake the main housing construction programme in other authorities, in meeting the long-term needs of a large number of applicants on the waiting list.
An Action Plan Working Group is currently being formed to carry out full analysis of this stage of the Action Plans. As well as examining performance to date the Group will make recommendations on a number of areas such as actions to improve delivery and monitoring of Action Plans in the future. In light of the fact that the review is ongoing and the detailed information sought in the Question is not fully collated, a breakdown at county level cannot yet be provided. However, considerable information on the supply of social and affordable housing, broken down by local authority is currently available on my Department's website www.environ.ie. Once the review has been finalised the report will be available from the Department.
The social and affordable action plans have provided local authorities and the Department with a focused framework for identifying needs, setting targets, measuring progress and taking account of changes in the housing policy arena. The mid-term review exercise has facilitated a reflection of all aspects of the first two years of the plan in terms of achievements and the remainder of the plan in light of developments.
Water Quality.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:311 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reports that have been issued regarding poor water quality in Ireland’s waterways in the past year; if such reports refer to the dumping of excretion from cruise boats in Ireland’s waterways; if not, why not; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30221/06]
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have issued the following reports regarding the water quality in Ireland's waterways in the past year: Phosphorous Regulations National Implementation Report 2005, Water Quality in Ireland 2005 Key Indicators of the Aquatic Environment, and Environment in Focus 2006 Environmental Indicators for Ireland. The Water Quality in Ireland 2005 Key Indicators of the Aquatic Environment report (August 2006) analyses what EPA consider to be the top ten core indicators of water quality in Ireland, namely river quality, nitrates in rivers, lake quality, fish kills, estuarine and coastal water quality, quality of shellfish waters, pollution at sea incidents, bathing water quality, faecal coliforms in ground water and nitrates in ground water. None of the EPA reports makes particular reference to the dumping of excretion from cruise boats in Ireland's waterways.
The EPA report that the main threats to the quality of Ireland's surface waters are municipal sewerage and diffuse agricultural pollution sources. These issues are being addressed by major investment in the Water Services Investment Programme and measures such as the Nitrates Regulations. However, my Department has over the years sought to facilitate the provision of sewerage infrastructure to serve cruise boats under the Water Services Investment programme.
Departmental Expenditure.
Phil Hogan
Question:312 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the moneys allocated to his Department in this year’s Estimates will be fully and appropriately spent during 2006; if he has identified any allocated moneys which are not needed by his Department; and if so the amount of such moneys. [30233/06]
The 2006 provision for my Department will be used for the purposes intended and managed in accordance with Public Financial Procedures. At this stage in the year I anticipate that the provision should be sufficient to meet demands and that savings, if any, will be relatively small.
Fire Stations.
Michael Lowry
Question:313 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will sanction an application for funding for a fire station (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if he will ensure that the project is included in the 2007 programme of works as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30244/06]
North Tipperary County Council has submitted a proposal to my Department for the provision of a new fire station at Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary. Funding in this regard was not included in the 2006 Fire Services Capital Programme. However, the provision of such funding will be considered in future years having regard to overall demands on the fire service capital programme, the priorities of North Tipperary County Council, the level of activity, the proximity of other fire stations and the standard of the existing facilities.
Local Authority Housing.
Denis Naughten
Question:314 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of an application (details supplied); if he will approve the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30281/06]
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)
Roscommon County Council sought my Department's approval to convert accommodation units at Torpon Beg, Ballyforan, from halting site units to group houses and to provide additional houses and associated works. Further consideration will be given to the proposal on receipt of the additional information recently requested from the Council.
Waste Disposal.
Paul Kehoe
Question:315 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a person who has been investigated by a county council for alleged dumping will find out who reported the concerns to the council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30282/06]
In relation to unauthorised waste activities, it is a matter for the relevant individual local authorities and/or the Office of Environmental Enforcement to investigate any instances or reports of illegal disposal of waste and take any appropriate action in relation to such cases. My Department has no direct function in the matter. The arrangements made by local authorities or by the Office of Environmental Enforcement in relation to public access to information is primarily a matter for these bodies, subject to compliance with relevant statutory provisions.
Water and Sewerage Schemes.
Jerry Cowley
Question:316 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps which are being taken by his Department to ensure a sewerage scheme is installed in the Achill Sound area of County Mayo which will service the full community and which will be affordable to the community and serve future generations; his views on whether these steps are necessary in view of the fact that it is on the cards for 15 years and that the polluter pays principle means that it is making the scheme economically impossible; if he will review this situation; if he will consider meeting with the group to outline the possibilities available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30308/06]
The Achill Sound Sewerage Scheme has been approved under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme since June 2005. In common with all projects funded under the Programme, my Department funds the capital costs associated with the provision of services to meet the requirements of the existing domestic population. The additional marginal capital cost of servicing non-domestic consumers, and providing for future development, is recovered by the local authority from all non-domestic consumers in its functional area through a combination of water charges on commercial consumers and planning levies on future development. It is important to note that this should be done on a countywide basis and not confined to local communities. In fact it is only where a significant large scale consumer wishes to reserve a specific proportion of the overall capacity of a scheme that a direct contribution to the capital costs up-front is required for that consumer. I understand that it is unlikely that there are any such consumers in this case.
Proposals for a revised scheme for Achill Sound costing €5.377m were submitted to my Department by Mayo County Council in July last. The Council was informed on 11 August that the Department would provide funding of €3.619m in respect of the revised proposals and I would hope that the Council will now advance this long delayed scheme.
Local Authority Housing.
Gerard Murphy
Question:317 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a rural cottage for a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will be approved by his Department. [30332/06]
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)
My Department has received an application from Cork County Council in this case. The Council has been asked to furnish additional information regarding the technical merit of the application. An early decision will be made by my Department following the receipt of the necessary information from the Council.
Natural Heritage Areas.
Denis Naughten
Question:318 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will be issued with a top-up payment for the purchase of bog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30343/06]
Papers in relation to this case are currently being examined in my Department with a view to resolving issues regarding responsibility for the upkeep, repair and maintenance of the access way and also the liability for any claims resulting from the exercise of the right of way in relation to the land offered for sale.
Communications Masts.
Joe Higgins
Question:319 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason mobile phone companies have been allowed to place microwave transmitters on buildings in Huntstown west Dublin, metres from a primary school. [30421/06]
As the Deputy is aware, communications masts are generally required to obtain planning permission. The Planning and Development Regulations 2001 set out certain exemptions in this area. These include, subject to certain conditions, the attachment of additional antennae to an existing antenna support structure, the erection of an antenna support structure in place of an existing antenna support structure and the attachment of antennae to certain existing structures, such as telegraph poles, electricity pylons and certain public or commercial buildings. These Regulations were the subject of extensive debate in the Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Environment and Local Government, and were subsequently approved by both Houses of the Oireachtas.
The Oireachtas Joint Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Report on Non-ionising radiation from mobile phone handsets and masts (June 2005) recommended, inter alia, that planning guidelines and planning exemptions be examined with a view to ensuring that no ‘electromagnetic emissions' or ‘radio frequency emissions' emitting equipment be permitted to be sited near health centres, schools or other sensitive sites such as playgrounds or pitches, etc.
On receipt the report of the Joint Committee, the Government, in September 2005, approved the establishment of an inter-departmental advisory committee and an expert group, working to the committee, on the health effects of electromagnetic fields. This Department is represented on the committee. The work of the committee and expert group is in train and I understand that their report is expected to be made to the Government by the end 2006, following which the Government will address appropriate action.
Housing Grants.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:320 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that those qualifying for shared ownership loans, who opt to buy out the remaining equity in their property in any year subsequent to taking out the mortgage will automatically activate the claw back in full, whereas, those who can avail of a loan from a financial institution are not so penalised; the way this compares with the terms offered to the recipients of the various private sites or affordable housing schemes available to residents in the Dublin area; the way in which it transpires that some financial institutions are in a position to offer a mortgage at a repayment rate of up to €200.00 per month below that available through shared ownership loans involving approximately 50 percent of the equity, with the balance by way of rent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30422/06]
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)
Shared ownership loans are provided solely by local authorities and, given that, the commercial lending agencies do not finance arrangements in which the local authority retains a share in the dwelling. Finance for these loans is made available by the Housing Finance Agency at a competitive rate, identical to their variable interest rate for other types of house purchase. There is no direct comparability between shared ownership loans and loans provided by private institutions in other circumstances. The claw-back condition operating under the various affordable schemes is a standard arrangement across all local authorities, and is designed to prevent short term profit taking on the basis of the publicly provided subsidies.