Vol. 626 No. 5
9 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has been involved in the negotiations in relation to the proposed buy-out of the M50 toll bridge; when this process will be completed; the alternative arrangements which will be put in place [35821/06]
At the outset, I should explain that overall responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the M50, 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).
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 with one tolling point 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.
With regard to barrier free tolling, I should explain that automated toll collection is currently available on existing toll plazas and will be used on all future toll schemes. It is not, however, operated on a barrier free basis as toll operators consider that the enforcement powers available to deal with non-payment are not robust enough.
While existing legislation is adequate to facilitate the introduction of barrier free tolling, it is not considered to provide a sufficient deterrent or penalty to cater for toll violations in a barrier free environment. Currently, the physical restraint of the barrier is the main enforcement tool.
For this reason, I sought and received Government approval on 17 October for the drafting of legislation which, inter alia, will strengthen the enforcement regime through implementation of appropriate deterrents for non-payment of tolls. I hope to bring the Bill before the Oireachtas by the end of this year.
Automated toll collection in a barrier free tolling environment can deliver an improved level of service by increasing the throughput capability of a toll plaza and reducing queues.
Specifically in relation to the M50, the NRA has engaged consultants to advise on the barrier free technology and intend to submit proposals for the barrier free toll arrangement for Government approval in due course.
10 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport the progress in expanding Dublin’s quality bus corridor network; and the extra capacity that can be expected in the next 12 months by QBC route. [35770/06]
Transport 21 is designed to inject a large amount of additional capacity into the public transport network over the next ten years, with a total investment of over €16bn in the GDA between now and 2015. Provision is made in Transport 21 to double the length of bus priority infrastructure in the GDA within the 10-year period of the programme.
In January of this year, the Dublin Transportation Office reviewed the bus priority programme in the context of the goal set in Transport 21.
Extra capacity will be delivered by end-2007 by projects that are currently under construction. These include the Blackrock QBC (Merrion Road and Dún Laoghaire — Rathdown Section), Snugborough Road, Kilmacud QBC, South Clondalkin QBC (Phase 3 — Long Mile Road to Dolphin's Barn), Pearse Street Bus Priority Scheme (Phase 2), Dunshaughlin, Bracetown, Earlsfort Terrace/St. Stephen's Green, Naas Road QBC (Phases 2 and 3), and Waterloo Road Bus Priority Scheme. In addition, the tender process is underway for schemes at Santry Avenue and Coolock Lane/Oscar Traynor Road.
11 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Transport if he is confident that the upgrade of the M50 will be substantially completed to coincide with the opening of the second terminal at Dublin Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35792/06]
I understand that Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport is due to be completed by late 2009. This is broadly in line with the 2008 — 2010 completion dates for the phased completion of the M50 upgrade. The principal agencies involved in these projects — i.e Dublin Airport Authority, Fingal County Council and the National Roads Authority have cooperated and consulted closely in the planning stages of the Terminal 2 project. I have encouraged this consultation and cooperation. I envisage this cooperation continuing to ensure that the completion of these essential infrastructure projects is harmonised, to the maximum possible extent.
The 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 3.2 km 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 3.2 km West-Link section between the N3 and N4 junctions which is expected to be completed by mid 2008.
Separately the NRA is 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.
12 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Transport when he proposes to extend the powers of traffic wardens in respect of traffic enforcement. [35760/06]
The range of offences in the Local Authorities (Traffic Wardens) Act 1975 which may be enforced by local authority traffic wardens was expanded by statutory amendments made in 2002 and 2006. Three specified offences, one of which relates to display of an NCT disc and two which relate to motor tax disc offences, have not yet been brought into the range of the fixed charge offences that traffic wardens can enforce.
Enforcement by traffic wardens of offences under the new fixed charge system is in operation since 3 April 2006 in respect of the range of offences that were enforceable by traffic wardens under the previous on-the-spot fine system.
I will give consideration, in due course, to the declaration of the additional 3 specified offences to be fixed charge offences enforceable by local authority traffic wardens. However, the timing of doing so depends on the proper administrative and IT systems being in place in local authorities.
As the matter stands at present the three offences that are outside the remit of traffic wardens are enforceable by the Garda Síochána.
14 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Transport the opening date for the Dublin Port Tunnel; and the final cost of the scheme. [35768/06]
81 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport the opening date of the Dublin Port Tunnel; if his officials have held discussions with relevant parties in relation to contingency plans to deal with the increased traffic on the M50 as a result of the opening; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35794/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14 and 81 together.
At the outset, I should explain that overall responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the Port Tunnel, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned, in this case, Dublin City Council.
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 in December. 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.
I understand from the NRA that the estimated cost of the Tunnel remains at €751 million, which has been the estimate for some time.
With regard to traffic management arrangements following the Tunnel's opening, I should explain that traffic management, in general, is a matter for the appropriate local authority in the area and in this case, that authority is Dublin City Council. I understand that Dublin City Council and the NRA are working together on traffic management measures within and on the approaches to the Tunnel involving road widening, lane configurations, speed limits, etc. to ensure the introduction of a co-ordinated strategy for the opening of the Tunnel.
My Department is also 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, including its implications for the M50.
15 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Transport if his Department met with all interested parties to discuss measures to reduce congestion on the M50 during the upgrade works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35793/06]
At the outset, I should point out that traffic management in general is a matter for the appropriate local authority. In the case of the current upgrade works on the M50, that authority is South Dublin County Council with, I understand, Dublin City Council's assistance in managing the junctions and the associated traffic signals.
The M50 has experienced massive traffic growth over recent years in line with economic and employment growth and increased car ownership rates. Average annual daily traffic flows on a number of sections of the M50 exceed 85,000 vehicles and major congestion occurs at peak times.
There are no simple quick-fix solutions to resolve motorway congestion. In the case of the M50, the solution entails the construction of additional lane capacity, the upgrading of the junctions along the route and the replacement of the existing tolling arrangements with barrier free tolling.
The M50 upgrade is a major infrastructure project being undertaken under live traffic conditions. This imposes serious constraints both on those carrying out the works and on motorists using the facility. It simply is not possible to carry out a project on this scale without some temporary worsening of traffic conditions. Nevertheless, while these works are taking place, the NRA, the Local Authorities and the Gardaí are co-operating very closely to ensure that everything possible is done to mitigate the impact of the works on traffic flows. The Authorities and the Gardaí are in regular contact and the situation is kept under constant review. Both the Local Authority and the contractor have dedicated personnel working full-time on traffic management. My officials and I are keeping in touch with all stakeholders and, in the circumstances, I am satisfied that no effort is being spared by those responsible for traffic management and law enforcement to alleviate the problems on the M50 insofar as that is possible.
I expect that significant improvements in the situation on the M50 will take place on completion of Phase 1 of the Upgrade 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.
16 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport the action he is taking to improve the take-up of tax-saver commuter tickets, particularly outside of Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35781/06]
This is a day-to-day operational matter for the public transport companies concerned and not one in which I have no role.
17 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport when the learner permit driving system will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35795/06]
53 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Transport the changes to driver licensing law he proposes; and the timeframe for their introduction. [35757/06]
102 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Transport the proposals expected to be introduced in relation to a graduated licence; when such proposals will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35802/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 17, 53 and 102 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to a priority question today, in which I said that the RSA has submitted to me in recent days a range of proposals with a particular focus on licensing reform and on targeting drivers between 17 and 24 years old. I equally share the concern of the RSA Board about the high risk factors of death and serious injury to this particular category of drivers and I will be considering these proposals in the coming weeks.
I also met with the Chief Executive of the RSA last week and asked that the Authority come back to me as soon as possible with a structured approach to a complete transition, with time lines, from the current regime of provisional licences to a regime of learner permits and restricted category drivers and related learner/drivers formation arrangements. I know that such a complete transition will take some time, but I genuinely feel that there is great potential for saving young lives in this approach. I intend to meet the RSA Board in the coming weeks to discuss these matters.
18 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport when the Dublin Transportation Authority will be established; if it will have authority over CIÉ; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35809/06]
19 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport when he proposes to establish the Dublin Transportation Authority; the consultation he has had with the four Dublin local authorities and the local authorities in the Dublin commuter belt; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35761/06]
39 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport when he expects to appoint the new regulator for the Dublin bus market; and if that regulator will operate within the Dublin Transport Authority. [35859/06]
49 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Transport when he expects to establish the new Dublin Transportation Authority; and the way in which, in the absence of a legislative mandate, he expects same to operate in the interim. [35858/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 18, 19, 39 and 49 together.
The Minister for Transport established a Team following the launch of Transport 21 to make recommendations on the establishment of a transport authority for the Greater Dublin Area. He also asked the team to give advice on the content of legislation required to establish such an Authority and to make recommendations on what interim arrangements should be put in place pending the enactment of the legislation. The Team reported to the Minister earlier this year.
Before finalising its report, the Team engaged in a consultation with relevant stakeholders, including the city and county managers of the local authorities in the Greater Dublin Area, whom I understand had two meetings with the Team and who also submitted their views to them in a written submission. Members of the Team also met with the Lord Mayor and the Chairpersons of the Strategic Policy Committees of Dublin City Council, at their request. The Dublin and Mid-East Regional Authorities also made written submissions.
The Government, having considered the report, approved the drafting of legislation to establish a Dublin Transport Authority on a statutory basis. Substantial progress has been made in recent months in preparing draft legislation.
The Government decided in September that the new Dublin Transport Authority would undertake the regulation of the bus market and future decisions on the allocation of all public subsidies for bus services in the Greater Dublin Area. Provisions to give effect to this decision are being incorporated in the draft legislation to establish the Dublin Transport Authority.
The Government gave a commitment in the Ten-Year Framework Social Partnership Agreement "Towards 2016" to engage in consultation with interested parties during the drafting of the legislation. In accordance with this commitment the Minister intends shortly to publish the report of the Dublin Transport Authority Establishment Team and undertake a short intensive consultation process with interested parties before finalising his legislative proposals to establish the Authority on a statutory basis.
It is the Minister's intention to publish a Bill establishing the Dublin Transport Authority before Christmas.
The Minister is currently considering the establishment of an interim Authority with a mandate to progress the putting in place of necessary organisational arrangements, such as the recruitment of a senior management team, prior to the enactment of legislation. It is not envisaged that the interim Authority would seek to discharge substantive functions pending the enactment of legislation to provide statutory authority for its work.
20 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Transport the situation involving the M3 motorway and the Hill of Tara. [35846/06]
The planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the M3, 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 projects.
22 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Transport if he is developing proposals, in conjunction with other relevant parties, to overcome the large percentage of drivers who receive penalty points but which are never applied; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35829/06]
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority now has responsibility for the endorsement of penalty points on licence records.
The operation of the penalty point system is kept under review by all the State Agencies involved including my Department, An Garda Síochána, the Court Service, the Vehicle Registration Unit of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, the Road Safety Authority and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform through a working group chaired by the latter Department. Where improvement is desirable this will be pursued.
23 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Transport the position on the extension of rail services to Navan; and the timescale proposed for these works. [35785/06]
27 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Transport the progress being made on the re-opening of the Navan line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35820/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 27 together.
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. The current position regarding this phase is that detailed design work is underway and Iarnród Éireann expect to submit a Railway Order application in 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.
Under Phase 2 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 this month. The study is expected to commence shortly thereafter.
24 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether the proposed Irish Rail interconnector tunnel will be completed by 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35818/06]
The Interconnector is intended to be the final phase of a programme to extend and reconfigure the DART and suburban services and to provide higher capacities, frequencies and integration of services to meet forecast demand levels in the Dublin inner-suburban area and to develop an integrated transport system for the capital.
There are a number of projects currently under way that are necessary to prepare for the development of the interconnector including the Kildare Route Project, feasibility study on the electrification of the Maynooth line and two complementary planning studies on the Interconnector. Iarnród Éireann and the Railway Procurement Agency are also working well together to ensure that planning for both the Interconnector and the Metro is properly integrated. On this basis I am confident that the timeframe for the delivery of the Interconnector is achievable.
25 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport the assistance given by his Department to assist with the promotion of Mitchelstown as an attractive relocation destination to Bus Éireann employees; the efforts his Department has made to assist in securing a suitable location for the proposed headquarters; if one has been secured; if anyone has indicated a wish to decentralise to the town to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33224/06]
As part of the Decentralisation programme, 86 Bus Éireann Headquarters posts are to be relocated to Mitchelstown.
Implementation issues, including the identification of accommodation, are being pursued by Bus Éireann. However, to date, no employee has indicated a wish to move and this continues to be examined by Bus Éireann itself.
26 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has held discussions with civil aviation authorities on the provision of a visible armed presence at airports here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32273/06]
My Department which has responsibility for aviation security policy liaises on an on-going basis with the Garda Síochána concerning issues relating to airport security.
In the context of wider national security, An Garda Síochána is responsible for monitoring any terrorist threat and recommending appropriate security measures to address any such threats.
28 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport further to Question No. 67 of 7 June 2006, the status of the public inquiry under section 42(1) of the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001 in respect of the Iarnród Éireann application for a railway order for the Cork to Midleton railway line which he received on 15 May 2006; if and when railway order will be granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35753/06]
I received Iarnród Éireann's application for a Railway Order for the Cork to Midleton Railway line on the 15th of May 2006. On the 26th of May, I directed that a Public Inquiry be held into the application. On the 14th of June I appointed Mr. Pat Butler S.C. as Inspector to the Public Inquiry under section 42(1) of the Transport (Railway Infrastructure) Act 2001. The Public Inquiry commenced on the 31st of October. Whether or not a Railway Order is granted and the timing of same will depend on the outcome of the Public Inquiry.
29 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport the level of take-up of park and ride funding by local authorities; if he is satisfied with the pace of the development of such facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35827/06]
I am making capital funding available to local authorities under Transport 21 for park and ride facilities in the Greater Dublin Area, and also in the Regional Cities. It is a central aim of my Department that we want to attract as many people as possible out of their cars and onto public transport.
In 2005, I approved a Dublin Transportation Office (DTO) strategy for rail-based Park and Ride facilities, which envisages facilities at 22 locations on the existing and proposed rail network within the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). Each of the regional cities also has land use or transport strategies in place. It is a matter for the local authorities to prioritise the most suitable locations for park and ride, and to apply to my Department for funding for the capital cost of appropriate park and ride facilities. The procedure for allocation of funding to specific projects is that my Department will consider applications by public bodies on a first-come, first served basis. These applications will be evaluated according to their business cases, and against the strategic value they offer, as assessed against the DTO strategy in the case of the GDA, and against the relevant land use or transport plans in the case of the regional cities.
I am anxious to see a strong commitment by local authorities to the development of park and ride facilities and my Department is inviting applications from local authorities. I understand that several authorities are considering possible sites.
30 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Transport the progress made on ensuring that a confidential reporting system for pilots and airline staff exists here to allow the reporting of unsafe practices by airlines; when he will introduce whistleblower legislation to cover this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35779/06]
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. Work is under way to transpose this Directive into Irish law.
31 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the cost of each stage of the M50 upgrade; and the financing operations that are in place for said upgrade. [35853/06]
55 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding phase two and phase three of the upgrade of the M50; and the timescale proposed for these works. [35786/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 55 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 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).
I understand that 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 at a projected cost of approximately €244m. This phase is being funded by the Exchequer through the National Roads Programme.
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. The exact cost of this contract will be finalised following receipt of tenders for the project.
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. This phase is being funded by the Exchequer through the State's proceeds of the toll revenue from the West-Link Toll Facility and the expected final cost will be established following receipt of tenders for the project.
The total projected cost of the M50 upgrade is approximately €1bn, of which about 75% (i.e. Phases 2 and 3) will be funded from the future stream of toll revenue.
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.
32 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Transport the cost benefit analysis carried out on the major roads programme laid down in the 2000 to 2006 National Development Plan; the time reduction targets set for major roads; and the most recent measured journey times on national roads here. [35862/06]
Cost benefit analyses are carried out on national road projects by the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the provisions of the Roads Act 1993.
Cost benefit analysis is carried out on a project-by-project basis in respect of major national road improvement schemes constructed under the National Development Plan (NDP) 2000-2006. This practice fully accords with the Department of Finance's "Guidelines for the Appraisal and Management of Capital Expenditure Proposals in the Public Sector".
Target travel time savings were set for the five major inter urban routes (Dublin to Galway, Limerick, Cork, Waterford and the Northern Ireland border) mandated in the NDP. These targets were published in the Economic and Social Infrastructure Operational Programme (ESIOP) 2000-2006. The objective was to save a total of approximately 188 minutes in journey times on these five routes by the end of 2010. A number of interim travel time saving targets were also specified. The relevant target for the end of 2006 is a total travel time saving of 86 minutes on these five routes. The most recent figures available relate to June 2006 and are available in the ESIOP Progress Report on Programme Implementation to end June 2006. These figures show that total travel time savings of 91 minutes have been achieved, thereby already exceeding the relevant target for 2006.
33 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the projected number of learner drivers over the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35796/06]
I understand that the Road Safety Authority, in the context of its responsibility for the delivery of the driving test, is carrying out an analysis of likely future demand for driving tests.
34 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport the communication he has had with the European Commission regarding competition within the aviation sector here; and the outcome of said communication. [35860/06]
I refer the Deputy to the reply to Priority Question No. 3 on Aer Lingus today.
35 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport the position on the reopening of the western rail corridor; and the timescale proposed for these works. [35784/06]
83 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the progress made to date on the reopening of the western rail corridor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35800/06]
91 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Transport the progress of the plans for the western rail corridor. [35841/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35, 83 and 91 together.
I refer the Deputy to my answer to Question No. 117 of 28th September which sets out the timetable for this project.
36 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has received safety audit reports on the Luas; if issues have been raised in relation to the tracks, particularly where there is a bend or turn in the track; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35594/06]
Responsibility for the regulation of safety issues with respect to the rail network, including Luas, rests with the Railway Safety Commission (RSC) which acts on an independent statutory independent basis in the performance of its functions. Prior to its formal establishment on 1st January this year, the RSC operated on an interim basis under the aegis of my Department.
Passenger services commenced on the Luas in June 2004 following approval by the Interim Railway Safety Commission of the infrastructure, rolling stock and of the operator through the latter's operational safety case. I understand that the Interim Railway Safety Commission also carried out a safety audit of Veolia Transport, formerly Connex, the operators of Luas, in 2005. In addition, as required by the Railway Safety Act 2005, I am informed that Veolia has submitted its up-dated safety case to the RSC.
The safety of the Luas network is being managed by both the RPA and Veolia and there are no current or past safety issues relating to the Luas track. As the Deputy will be aware, the main Luas contractor was obliged to remedy, at no cost to the RPA, problems that emerged with the rail supports at certain sections of the track. This issue was the subject of prior discussions between the RPA and the RSC. These works have now been completed.
37 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport when he expects the next national road safety strategy to be implemented; if he is satisfied with the implementation of the current strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35828/06]
45 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport his proposals to improve road safety in view of the ongoing carnage on roads here. [35837/06]
52 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Transport the measures proposed by the Road Safety Authority to improve road safety; and the steps he will take to implement said proposals. [35861/06]
74 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport the success of the National Road Safety Strategy of 2004 to 2006 to date in contributing to road safety and reducing deaths on roads here. [35839/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 37, 45, 52 and 74 together.
The Government Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006 sets a primary target of a 25% reduction in road collision fatalities by the end of 2006 over the average annual number of fatalities in the 1998-2003 period.
This was always an ambitious target and one that required the continued commitment to a strategic, integrated approach by all of the road safety agencies.
A major independent review of the previous strategy confirmed that basing the primary target on the achievement of progress in the areas of speeding, drink driving and seat belt wearing remains the correct approach and these remain the key areas central to the implementation of the Strategy.
Significant initiatives identified in the Strategy that have been realised to date include the introduction of a new system of metric speed limits, the further extension of the operation of the penalty points and fixed charge systems from April 2006, and, the establishment of the Garda Traffic Corps. The Corps, provides the basis for the achievement of the significant gains in road safety that emanate from consistent high levels of traffic law enforcement.
Other major proposals identified, such as the plans to establish a system of private sector operation of speed cameras under the auspices of the Garda, are well advanced.
The Road Traffic Act 2006 has been enacted and a number of key measures commenced. These include the provision to combat drink driving through enabling roadside Mandatory Alcohol Testing (MAT) and a ban on the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving.
Since the commencement of MAT checkpoints by the Garda the number of road deaths and collisions have fallen. The number of deaths in August 2006 was 17, the lowest number for any month since November 1999, compared to 24 in August 2005 and 35 in 2004. This downward trend has continued into September 2006 with 22 deaths as compared to 31 for September 2005 and on into October 2006 with 31 deaths up to 31 October 2006 compared to 44 deaths in 2005.
We are making progress across the wide range of initiatives identified in the current Strategy, which is now coming to an end, and I am satisfied that all of the agencies involved are fully committed to the achievement of the goals that underpin the Strategy.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is working on developing a new road safety strategy for the period for 2007 onwards and went out to public consultation on this matter last week. Proposals can be e-mailed to strategy@rsa.ie. It is expected that this Strategy will be finalised in the first quarter of 2007.
The RSA has also submitted to me in recent days a range of proposals to further augment road safety initiatives with a particular focus on licensing reform and on targeting drivers between 17 and 24 years old. I equally share the concern of the RSA Board about the high risk factors of death and serious injury to this particular category of drivers and I will be considering these proposals in the coming weeks.
I also met the Chief Executive Officer of the RSA last week and asked that the Authority come back to me as soon as possible with a structured approach to a complete transition, with time lines, from the current regime of provisional licences to a regime of learner permits and restricted category drivers and related learner/driver formation arrangements. I know that such a complete transition will take some time, but I genuinely feel that there is great potential for saving young lives in this approach.
I intend to meet the RSA Board in the coming weeks to discuss these and related matters.
38 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Transport if ongoing investigations are being carried out on the safety audits undertaken by Bus Éireann on its buses; when these will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35813/06]
At my request Bus Éireann has undertaken an examination of its company's systems and procedures for the management, operation and maintenance of its fleet and Bus Éireann has advised that its systems and procedures for its own fleet meet industry and international standards, and the requirements of the National Roadworthiness Test for goods vehicles and buses.
Separately, I have requested the Road Safety Authority to undertake a fundamental review of the arrangements for the compulsory periodic roadworthiness testing of goods vehicles and buses and this review is under way.
40 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the public concern regarding the proposal to run Metro north above ground along Ballymun Road; his views on whether such a proposal will be injurious to the local environment; his further views on whether this proposal will prevent the Metro from running at full capacity at any point in view of its interaction with road traffic and pedestrians; and if he will therefore request the RPA to revise its proposals in order to keep the Metro underground until it has passed Ballymun estate. [35780/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Priority Question No. 5 today.
41 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport the number of tonnes of goods transported by rail to date in 2006; the estimated annual total for 2006; and his plans for the future regulation and development of national rail freight. [35864/06]
77 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport his views on the termination of freight services by Irish Rail; his Department’s response to such a scenario; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35823/06]
79 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport his views on the moving of freight from rail to road; and the discussions he has had with Iarnród Éireann on this issue. [35840/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 41, 77 and 79 together.
Iarnród Éireann informs me that the company has carried over 1.07 million tonnes of rail freight in 2006 to date and estimates that 1.2 million in total will be carried in the full year.
Iarnród Éireann's goal is to return the rail freight business to profitability. To help achieve this turnaround, Iarnród Éireann has withdrawn 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.
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;
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
has modified surplus platform wagons to provide a trainload service for containers between Ballina and Waterford Port.
I should add that Iarnród Éireann has undertaken extensive engagement with industry and transporters around the country to try and 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 Éireann 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.
As regards the regulation of rail freight, 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 am open to any views on how we can expand rail freight. 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.
42 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport when he expects adequate parking facilities to be provided in the vicinity of all railway stations throughout the commuter belt or enhanced feeder bus services in lieu thereof; the extent to which he expects to encourage and facilitate commuter rail transport in the next two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35717/06]
67 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Transport the situation regarding parking capacities at the Rush and Lusk, Portmarnock, Skerries, Balbriggan and Malahide train stations; his plans to expand these facilities in view of the significant growth in population in these areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35819/06]
103 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the number of official park and ride sites currently operating in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Waterford with a breakdown for each city and the mode of transfer from that site in each case; and the further park and ride sites that are scheduled to be provided within the next two years with a breakdown by location, capacity and mode of transfer. [35769/06]
197 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the number of car parking spaces expected to be provided adjacent or convenient to each of the commuter rail stations throughout County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36063/06]
198 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the daily passenger throughput and capacity at the Kilcock, Maynooth, Leixlip, Confey, Hazelhatch, Sallins, Newbridge, Kildare and Monasterevin railway stations; the extent to which it is expected to increase such volume in the near future; the amount of car parking currently available; the amount anticipated or required in the short term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36064/06]
202 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport when he expects adequate parking adjacent to all railway stations to become available with particular reference to the need to encourage motorists onto rail transport thereby alleviating road traffic congestion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36068/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 42, 67, 103, 197, 198 and 202 together.
Park and ride facilities are an important component in encouraging people to transfer from private cars and onto public transport. I have therefore made funding available under Transport 21 for the capital costs of developing park and ride facilities. These developments will be taking place at the same time as both intercity and commuter rail services are expanded over the coming years. However, information regarding passenger carryings and the capacity of services at each station is an operational matter for the company.
Iarnród Éireann has park and ride facilities at the majority of the 134 railway stations throughout its network. These vary from small on street facilities to large pay facilities at major stations. The largest of these are at Greystones, Coolmine, Kildare and Newbridge. In addition, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Council operates a pay car park at Salthill station. Both Connolly and Heuston Stations have dedicated pay car parks for Intercity users. There is a pay parking facility at Cork Station and Galway Station has a limited number of spaces for public use. There is also car parking at Waterford. Iarnród Éireann plans to expand the parking facilities at Cork and at Galway.
Iarnród Éireann have been extending car parking facilities at all locations where Iarnród Éireann has land available. Over the past few years this has included Portmarnock, Newbridge, Killester, Clontarf Road and Skerries. Iarnród Éireann is currently undertaking car parking extensions at Mallow, Ennis and Leixlip Louisa Bridge. However, the actual capacity of car parking facilities is an operational matter for the company.
My Department is also funding, as part of Transport 21, a study by Irish Rail into the prioritisation of car-park initiatives across the rail network, with a view to developing a strategic, programmed approach to the provision of car-park facilities in the future. In the meantime, all new station developments on commuter networks in the GDA and the rest of the country are designed to include car-park facilities. There are currently four park and ride sites along the existing Luas network at Red Cow, Sandyford, Stillorgan and Balally. The mode of transfer in each case is primarily between car and Luas.
The RPA proposes to open a new park and ride facility adjacent to the Luas Tallaght stop within the next two years.
There is a highly successful bus-based park and ride facility at Black Ash in Cork. This is currently the only bus-based park and ride facility in operation in the regional cities, but I understand that several authorities are considering possible sites.
The Dublin Transportation Office (DTO) continues to consider any opportunities that may arise for the development of bus-based park and ride facilities, where the facility provides a competitive journey time, compared with a similar journey by car.
44 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport his position on the provision of a national emergency tug vessel; when a decision will be reached on the need for such a vessel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35825/06]
I have on many occasions pointed out to the House that I am aware of the importance of providing emergency towing vessel (ETV) facilities, including in an EU and Ireland-UK context.
While the benefits of having an ETV facility are known, the very significant cost of the facility has meant that, in the context of other marine emergency response priorities, it has not been possible to date to put permanent ETV arrangements in place.
The Coast Guard is looking at this issue and will advise me on suitable options. It is not, therefore, possible at present to bring forward specific measures for an ETV facility.
47 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Transport if there is a provision for a road worthiness test for imported vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35830/06]
In accordance with EU Directive 96/96/EC, motor vehicles and trailers are liable to compulsory periodic roadworthiness testing. Passenger cars are liable to testing when they are 4 years old and every 2 years thereafter while commercial vehicles are liable to testing when they are 1 year old and every year thereafter.
As a consequence of the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority is now responsible for vehicle standards including vehicle testing.
48 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport when he expects the proposed metro to go to tender; and the cost benefit analysis of the project that has taken place internally within his Department and within the Department of Finance. [35855/06]
51 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the reason he is not in a position to reveal the estimated cost of the Metro north project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35797/06]
70 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Transport if a decision has been reached as to who will be responsible for funding the cost of developing an underground rail station at Dublin Airport; if he has a personal view on this issue; the discussions which have been undertaken between his Department and other relevant parties on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35816/06]
105 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to publish the full costings and business case for Metro north; the amount this project has cost to date; and when he expects to invite tenders for the construction of this project. [35762/06]
186 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the expected time schedule for the delivery and operation of the Dublin Metro system; the costs associated with same; the level of funding that has been allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35888/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 48, 51, 70, 105 and 186 together.
Metro North is a key component in the overall public transport network that this Government proposes to develop as part of its investment framework, Transport 21.
Subject to an enforceable Railway Order, construction of Metro North is due for completion in 2012.
I announced the preferred route for Metro North on 19 October last. This 17 kilometre route was approved by the Board of the RPA, following a robust evaluation and a detailed public consultation process, which involved consideration of four possible route options.
The next step in this process will focus on consultations in relation to the design and possible construction methods of the tunnels, track layout and stations along the chosen route.
Metro North will be procured as a public private partnership (PPP), funded through annual availability payments, over a period of approximately 30 years. The PPP pre-qualification process is likely to commence in the next few months. I am advised by the RPA that it expects the proposed Metro North project to go to tender in the summer of 2007.
The strategic transportation and economic case for the Metro and Luas network is contained in the Dublin Transportation Office's (DTO) "A Platform for Change" strategy document published in 2001. Following detailed transportation modelling and thorough analysis, the DTO strategy recommended the development of an integrated public transport network including a Metro and additional Luas lines. The DTO strategy was the subject of an economic evaluation by independent consultants which is reported on in the published document.
The RPA undertook detailed economic and transportation analysis which confirmed the case for Metro North and concluded that the project has a positive benefit to cost ratio. This work formed part of the commercially confidential Outline Business Case.
In addition, further independent evaluation of the Metro project was undertaken on behalf of the Department of Finance. The Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport also commissioned an independent consultant's report, which supported the RPA analysis. This is available on the Oireachtas website. All of this independent evaluation supported the RPA's prudent approach in the Outline Business Case.
I have continually stated publicly that I am not in a position to release details of the costs for the Metro route because the details are commercially sensitive from the point of view of protecting public funds and getting best value for money. A further consideration is that this approach is in compliance with section 2.7.9 of the Department of Finance Public Private Partnerships Guidelines. This section of the guidelines deals with the Public Sector Benchmark (PSB), which must be prepared in the case of PPP projects and include estimates of the capital cost of the projects; the section reads as follows and I quote:
Current policy is that the final PSB, or any elements thereof, is not made public, on the basis that revealing the amount that the State is willing to pay for a service may give tenderers an opportunity to increase their asking price above what they might otherwise seek. For this reason, where the public sector is likely to want to procure a similar project in the same or other sectors in the foreseeable future, such information should not be released even after the completion of the procurement process.
In the case of a once-off project, where there is not likely to be any similar procurement in the future, the release of the PSB after the contract has been signed could be considered.
On this basis, consideration will be given to the release of information regarding the costings of Metro North after the signing of the contract for the project.
I can advise the House that €14.4m has been spent on the Metro project to date. This cost includes work on route selection, preparation of the business case, environmental assessments, preparation for the procurement of metro and design for a railway order application, as well as detailed geotechnical investigations.
In relation to the underground station in Dublin Airport, I understand that the RPA has requested assistance from the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) for funding of this station. Discussions are ongoing between the RPA and the DAA on this matter.
50 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the proposed extension to Luas and new Luas lines; and the timescale proposed for these works. [35787/06]
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) has made substantial progress on the Luas projects contained in Transport 21.
The current situation relating to these Luas projects is as follows.
Luas Spur to City West (A1)
Following agreement with developers in relation to contributions to the cost of the proposed spur off the Tallaght Luas line to City West, the RPA launched an up-dated public consultation in August 2006. The up-date concerns a new proposed terminus at Saggart involving an extra 0.8km of Luas track; the overall revised length of the proposed spur to City West is 4 km. As a result of the negotiations to extend the line and the lands covered by a development levy and subject to an enforceable Railway Order, the scheduled completion date for this project is 2010.
Luas Extension to Cherrywood (B1)
I signed the Railway Order for the Luas extension to Cherrywood on 14 August 2006. However, in early October a third party sought leave in the High Court to challenge the grant of this Order, by way of judicial review. This matter is now before the courts. The scheduled completion date for this project is dependent on the outcome of the High Court proceedings. An early and successful conclusion to these proceedings would permit a scheduled completion date of 2010.
Luas Extension from Cherrywood to Bray (B2)
Public consultation on the further extension of the Luas from Cherrywood to Bray was launched on 14 August 2006. Subject to an enforceable Railway Order, the scheduled completion date for this project is 2015.
Linking of Luas lines in City Centre (BX/D)
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) began a public consultation on five potential routes for connecting the two existing Luas lines in November 2005. I understand that the RPA is engaged in dialogue with Dublin City Council, Dublin Bus and the Dublin Transportation Office in relation to the implications of the potential routes for bus services and other road users. Subject to a satisfactory outcome of those discussions, the RPA expects to identify a preferred option in the coming months and following this an application for a Railway Order will be made. The construction timescale will be dependent on the route chosen following the public consultation and the discussions with stakeholders and on the outcome of the statutory approval process.
A further stage of this project will extend the line to Liffey Junction via Grangegorman and Broadstone. Subject to an enforceable Railway Order, the scheduled completion date for this project is 2012.
Luas Extension to the Point Depot (C1)
The public inquiry into the proposed Luas extension 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 all the relevant documentation, including the Inspector's report, and will make a decision on the RPA's application for a Railway Order in due course. Subject to an enforceable Railway Order, the scheduled completion date for this project is 2008.
Lucan to City Centre (Luas F)
A feasibility study on route alignments for the Lucan Luas line is ongoing. Subject to an enforceable Railway Order, the scheduled completion date for this project is 2013.
Extension of Trams on Tallaght Line
The capacity enhancement project on the Tallaght Luas line is on schedule to deliver an additional 40% in capacity by 2008 through the extension of the trams from 30 to 40 metres. The first of the extended trams is scheduled to enter service in mid 2007.
54 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Transport his proposals in respect of Operation Freeflow in Dublin City for the Christmas 2006 period; when it is proposed to commence and finish this operation; and the resources that will be allocated for same. [35789/06]
The planning of Operation Freeflow is a matter for the Operation Freeflow Committee, which is chaired by An Garda Síochána and brings together the relevant local authorities and public agencies.
I understand from the Dublin Transport Office that Operation Freeflow 2006 will be launched on 27 November 2006, and will run until 7 January 2007. I understand that full operational details and the resources required are being finalised by the Freeflow Committee, and will be promoted in advance of the launch. As in previous years, Operation Freeflow will include a range of measures to improve traffic flow in Dublin during the Christmas and New Year period, including the deployment of additional Gardaí on traffic duty in the City.
56 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the action he intends taking to block the proposed Ryanair takeover of Aer Lingus. [35776/06]
97 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Transport the measures he will pursue to safeguard the taxpayers’ interest in Aer Lingus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35834/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 97 together.
I refer the Deputies to the reply to my Priority Question No. 3 today.
57 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport the way he intends to encourage greater use of public transport in view of the increasing volume of traffic, particularly in the greater Dublin area, and in view of a number of serious incidents on buses in the Dublin area. [35838/06]
99 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport his plans to announce further public transport projects for Dublin. [35597/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 57 and 99 together.
Investment in public transport is a critical element of Government policy on transport for the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). Transport 21 is designed to inject a large amount of additional capacity into the public transport network over the next ten years, with a total investment of over €16bn in the GDA over its investment period.
By developing Metro North, Metro West, by extending the Luas network; by providing greater capacity on the DART and suburban rail network and by increasing significantly bus capacity, the annual number of public transport passenger journeys in Dublin will almost double. The objective is a four-fold increase in the numbers using suburban rail, while it is expected that over 100 million passengers will take the Luas and Metro every year when Transport 21 is delivered in full. Combined with a 60% increase in bus capacity, the target for passenger journeys in 2015 is 375 million as against approximately 200 million today.
Substantial traffic management measures in the Greater Dublin Area will also be required.
Transport 21 includes substantial funding provision for traffic management measures as an integral part of the transportation strategy for the Greater Dublin Area. The strategy aims to increase the modal share of public transport through infrastructure and service improvements and by encouraging a transfer of trips from the private car to more sustainable modes of transport.
In January of this year, the Dublin Transportation Office reviewed the bus priority programme in the context of the goal set in Transport 21 to double the length of bus priority infrastructure in the GDA within the 10-year period of Transport 21. A number of projects are now being implemented during the first 5 years of the period. In addition, last month, the DTO agreed to develop a public information programme to encourage less frequent use of single occupancy cars in the peak travel periods.
I should add that issues of personal security on buses are dealt with directly between the bus operators concerned and the Garda Síochána.
58 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has held talks with the new Dublin director of traffic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35810/06]
The Director of Traffic of Dublin City Council is a member of the Steering Committee of the Dublin Transportation Office and officials of my Department have met him in that capacity and also directly on matters related to traffic management.
59 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport the cost benefit analysis carried out on the second terminal for Dublin Airport; the proposed access links between the south and north second runway; and the proposed traffic management measures for the accommodation of the projected increase in passengers through the eastern campus of the airport. [35863/06]
The Aviation Action Plan, adopted by Government in May 2005, mandated the building of a second terminal in Dublin airport by the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA). This decision was driven by the urgent need to provide for additional capacity at the airport in response to the phenomenal growth in passenger numbers there in recent years.
Given this mandate it is now the responsibility of the DAA to proceed with meeting the Government's objective of having this new terminal in place by 2009. The DAA is required to take full account of the capital appraisal guidelines issued by the Department of Finance and responsibility for compliance with the guidelines rests with the board of the company.
The present position with regard to the proposed new terminal is that the planning application was approved, with conditions, by Fingal County Council last week. The application was submitted following wide-ranging consultation with users, statutory authorities and other interested parties. Subject to the outcome of the planning process, construction of the new terminal will begin in summer 2007.
The site selected by the DAA for the second terminal is considered to be the optimal location for a new terminal in the context of the long term, cost effective development of the airport. The site makes best use of the existing utilities and was selected with advice from a team of international aviation design experts.
The consultants appointed by my Department to verify the specification and cost of T2 concluded that the methodology, approach and execution of the planning objectives and considerations for passengers adopted by the DAA accords with best practice. They also found that the estimated cost of the new terminal is within industry norms for this type of project in a European capital city.
The proposed access routes to the airport between the existing southern runway and the proposed new northern runway will be upgraded as conditioned by Fingal County Council in their notification of decision to grant permission for T2.
The T2 planning application also included proposals for an upgraded internal campus road scheme with capacity to cater for increased traffic volumes from the projected increase in passenger numbers. The scheme includes plans for new roads, widening of existing roads, set down and pickup areas for both public and private transport, bus lanes on all entry and exit routes and the provision of upgraded bus and coach facilities. In addition, the scheme also safeguards an area for an underground metro station adjacent to both T1 and T2.
A Mobility Management Framework Plan was also submitted as part of the planning application. This plan outlines how the Dublin Airport Authority proposes to achieve a sustainable balance in the mix of public and private transport among all users of Dublin Airport.
60 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Transport the action he is taking, to support competition in the general vehicle insurance market, and particularly in the insurance markets for motorcycles and wheelchair accessible hire vehicles. [35778/06]
Competition Policy issues are a matter for my colleague the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment and all Government Ministers are prevented by EU law from intervening in the motor insurance market. I would like to state that I welcome competition in the motor vehicle insurance market.
By means of the Government Insurance Reform Programme initiated in 2002, much has been achieved which has led to a fall in motor insurance premia of almost 31.5% between April 2003 and September 2006. Wheelchair accessible hire vehicles are classified within the general motor vehicles classification. Motor cycle insurance premia have not shown a similar reduction but have remained at the same level between February 2004 and September 2006 which means that motor cycle insurance premia have reduced in real terms.
Because of the number of fatalities and serious injuries among motor cyclists which result in high insurance claims, some motor insurance companies are reluctant to enter this segment of the motor insurance market.
61 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport his views in respect of the relocation of Dublin Port; if this is Government policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35822/06]
78 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Transport if he has carried out an analysis on the possible relocation of activities from the Dublin south port to allow for future developments to take place in this area. [35857/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 78 together.
As I indicated in (i) response to Parliamentary Question No. 155 of 3 May 2006 and (ii) a Seanad Éireann Adjournment Debate of 27 June 2006, my Department has no proposals to move Dublin Port from its current location.
Dublin Port is a State-owned company established under the Harbours Act 1996. The Act provides that the company is required to take all proper measures for the management, control, operation and development of its harbour. Decisions regarding the use of the land within the port estate are primarily a matter for the port company and its board. Changes to the use of land may also require planning permission.
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. It recognises that one of the key challenges that lie ahead is the provision of adequate in-time port capacity, particularly for unitised trade (LoLo and RoRo).
Dublin Port is the country's premier port in terms of throughput and turnover, and as such is of vital strategic importance to our trading economy. Dublin Port currently handles some 76% of the State's RoRo trade and some 59% of the LoLo trade.
My Department recently published the broad conclusions of a study it commissioned to determine whether national port capacity requirements could be met adequately by a combination of projects currently being planned and progressed by the ports sector.
As part of this study, submissions were received from seven ports around the country with expansion plans, including Dublin Port Company. Dublin Port Company outlined proposals both to increase capacity at some of its existing container terminals and to build new terminals as part of its proposal to reclaim 21 hectares of foreshore.
Drogheda Port Company also made a submission regarding a separate proposal to build a new multi-purpose port at Bremore, in north County Dublin. The Bremore proposal is being advanced by Drogheda Port Company as a stand-alone project and is not dependent or linked to any relocation of activities in Dublin Port.
The National Spatial Strategy does identify strategic merit in relieving pressure on Dublin Port through targeted interventions in building up port capacity elsewhere. The recent study concludes that all the projects are generally consistent with the objectives of the National Spatial Strategy. All projects are located in or close to the five main gateways and six of the seven are outside Dublin city.
The focus of the Government's Port Policy is on national capacity issues. I have not carried out analysis specifically on Dublin south port. I am aware that in January 2005, Dublin City Council launched a Framework Plan for the Poolbeg peninsula. The plan sets out a vision for the peninsula, which includes extensive residential and other development on lands owned by, among others, Dublin Port Company. Dublin Port Company made a submission to the Council outlining its objections to the framework plan.
I also understand that the City Council is currently commissioning a wide ranging economic, amenity/recreational and environmental study of Dublin Bay, including the port area, with the aim of identifying and agreeing with key stakeholders, a guiding framework for its future overall development.
62 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport his views on mandatory blood testing at the site of serious road accidents, or shortly after; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35805/06]
The Road Traffic Acts provide that a member of the Garda Síochána may require a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle to provide a preliminary breath specimen where the vehicle is involved in a road collision. Garda discretion in relation to the use of preliminary roadside tests in such circumstances is necessary, having regard to possible injuries sustained, and I do not propose to alter that position.
The Road Traffic Acts also place an obligation on a person to provide a blood or urine sample in a hospital. This applies where an event occurs involving a vehicle which results in a person being injured, or a person claiming or appearing to have been injured, where the person is admitted to or attends a hospital, and a member of the Garda is of the opinion that, at the time of the event, the person had consumed an intoxicant. An intoxicant includes alcohol and drugs or any combination of alcohol and drugs.
63 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Transport if the complete break-up of the three State airports is now permanently on hold; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35815/06]
The State Airports Act, 2004 provides the framework for the establishment of Shannon and Cork as independent airports. Under the Act, both the Minister for Finance and I will have to be satisfied as to the state of operational and financial readiness of the three airports before any vesting of assets can take place.
All three Airport Authorities are currently working on the production of business plans for the post-independence era. Recognising that the three airports will require coordinated strategies for the achievement of operational and financial readiness, the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) is overseeing the consistency of the assumptions and strategies of each business plan.
The actual timing of airport restructuring will be contingent on the creation of the appropriate conditions that will ensure the financial sustainability of all three State Airports.
I can assure the Deputy that Airport restructuring has not been put on hold, but I have not imposed any artificial deadlines for the completion of the process. My Department will continue to liaise with all three authorities on the business planning timetable.
64 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Transport the progress made in respect of a new rail station at Spencer Dock; if he is confident that this station will be opened during 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35826/06]
Work on all aspects of the project, track and signalling, platforms and the station building itself, are under way and I understand that Iarnród Éireann is targeting April 2007 as the date for completion.
65 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport his views on the need for improved footpath access, lighting, feeder bus service, and other associated services for train stations in order to facilitate ease of access for potential and existing users; the discussions that have taken place with interested parties, including local authorities, regarding the continued improvement of such modes of access and services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35836/06]
The issues raised by the Deputy are primarily operational matters for Iarnród Éireann.
Under the National Development Plan 2000-2006, substantial Exchequer funding has been provided for improvements at stations throughout the network. Such improvements include upgrade works on stations and access to stations, platforms, lighting, signage, car-parks, etc.
Where new stations are being built, for example as part of the Cork Commuter Services project and the Kildare Route Project, a high standard of customer facilities is specified in the design, including for extensive car parking facilities and for pedestrian and cyclist access.
Access and services are further enhanced through the requirement that all investments in both new and existing facilities comply with the Department's Sectoral Plan under the Disability Act 2005. This Plan establishes a framework for a high standard for access generally to public transport services, and was developed in consultation with disability and other user groups.
Iarnród Éireann has informed me that regular liaison meetings are held with local authorities with regard to new station developments and station upgrade schemes.
Iarnród Éireann also informs me that it operates a number of feeder bus services jointly with Dublin Bus at Sutton; Blackrock; Dún Laoghaire and Connolly (for Heuston station).
66 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport when he expects to join the two existing Luas lines in Dublin City centre; and the preferred route option for such a connection. [35856/06]
106 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Transport the progress made in relation to the proposal to join up the two existing Luas lines; when this will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35817/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 106 together.
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) began a public consultation on five potential routes for connecting the two existing Luas lines in November 2005. 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 bus services and other road users. Subject to a satisfactory outcome of those discussions, the RPA expects to identify a preferred option in the coming months and following this an application for a Railway Order will be made.
The construction timescale will be dependent on the route chosen following the public consultation and the discussions with stakeholders and on the outcome of the statutory approval process.
68 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Transport if, in view of the number of accidents, he has had or intends to have meetings with the Department of Education and Science and the relevant stakeholders in connection with enhancing the safety of public school transport. [35845/06]
The Minister for Education and Science is responsible for the State school transport scheme. As a consequence of the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) responsibility for matters relating to vehicle and driver safety standards, including with respect to school transport, is now assigned to the Road Safety Authority.
69 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the role he has played in developing a national cycle way network as laid out in the National Development Plan 2000 to 2006; the amount spent on the project to date; and his plans for the future development of the network. [35854/06]
This Government has committed itself to promoting cycling as a viable alternative mode of transport, as is made clear in the Programme for Government, which states: "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 to local authorities for such facilities.
Approximately €30m has been provided by my Department to the Dublin Transportation Office for the provision of cycling facilities in the Greater Dublin Area since 1994. €1m was provided in 2005 and €2.2m in 2006. The investment of bus priority funding and cycling-only spending over the years has resulted in some 300 kms of cycle facilities being provided, as well as cycle parking facilities throughout 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.
The DTO Steering Committee adopted a Cycle Policy for the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) at its September 2006 meeting. 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.
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.
My Department is working with these authorities in the development of their plans and providing funding for their implementation.
71 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Transport his plans in place to increase port capacity nationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35798/06]
While the Government, both as shareholder and policy maker, has a clear interest in ensuring the provision of adequate, cost effective port capacity for our growing economy, 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.
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, in September 2005 my Department appointed 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 seven 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 in July 2006 the Government noted its conclusions. An Information Paper outlining the broad conclusions of the report was published recently on www.transport.gov.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.
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.
72 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide the necessary investment for Ireland West Airport, Knock, to enable this ever expanding regional airport to expand and to work at its full potential; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33225/06]
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 are being 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 before the end of the month.
73 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Transport if he will introduce measures to deal with the problem of spraying from HGVs in wet weather conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35831/06]
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 vehicle standards.
75 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether seat belt reminders in all new cars should be mandatory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35843/06]
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 vehicle standards.
76 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Transport his views on the introduction of roadside drug driving testing; when he will introduce same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35806/06]
It is illegal in Ireland to drive while under the influence of drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the vehicle. The evidential testing in a Garda station for the presence of drugs is already provided for in the Road Traffic Acts. Currently, there is no legislative provision to allow for preliminary roadside testing for drugs as there is no available approved method for the taking of such a test. However, significant research in relation to this issue has been and continues to be pursued, and the Medical Bureau of Road Safety is keeping abreast of developments in this area.
80 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether the absence of an air marshal training programme is a deficiency in Ireland’s approach to preventing terrorism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32272/06]
The Department of Transport has a primary role in relation to aviation security matters. Policy regarding air marshals involves close co-ordination between my Department, the Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform and An Garda Siochána. Currently there are no plans to introduce an air marshal training programme. However, the matter is kept under continuous review.
82 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the future of Aer Lingus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35716/06]
This is a matter for the management of Aer Lingus, which is now a publicly listed company, and a matter in which I have no function.
84 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Transport when he proposes to fully commence all sections of the Road Traffic Act 2006. [35759/06]
The Road Traffic Act 2006 was passed by the Oireachtas on 6 July 2006 and was signed by the President on 16 July 2006. I signed a Commencement Order in July which brought a number of the provisions in the Act into effect from Friday 21 July 2006. The provisions which were commenced included the key policy provisions promoted in the Act of Mandatory Alcohol Testing (MAT) checkpoints, a ban on the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving, and the legislative provision supporting the operation of privately operated speed cameras. The key policy initiatives set out in the Act were commenced without delay, and Mandatory Alcohol Testing Checkpoints have been operating effectively by the Garda since July. In addition, Section 16 of the Act was part-commenced with effect from 1 September 2006 in order to enable penalty points to apply to the offence of driving while holding a mobile phone. The remainder of that section (which introduces a number of new penalty point offences) has not yet been commenced.
Section 5 of the Act provides for the introduction of a fixed charge and disqualification for certain drink driving offences. This was not commenced immediately, pending the necessary administrative and enforcement preparations, which are now in hand. Neither section 5 nor the remainder of section 16 can be commenced until such time as the administrative and enforcement procedures are in place. Both sections require adjustments to the Garda Fixed Charge Processing and IT systems and in this context, it is not proposed to commence these sections at this time. A number of sections in the Act relate to the imposition of disqualification orders and fines by the courts. Consideration is being given to the commencement of these provisions in the near future. Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has responsibility for the oversight of the operation of the driver licensing system. Section 11 of the Road Traffic Act 2006 provides for the introduction of learner permits. This provision will be commenced when a supply of learner permits is available to licensing authorities to issue. It is a matter for the RSA to arrange for the supply of learner permits to licensing authorities. Similarly, sections 10 and 13 cannot be commenced until local authorities are in a position to issue learner permits.
85 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to update parking regulations to allow more flexibility to local authorities. [35764/06]
The Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997 to 2005 are kept under continuous review and any proposals received from local authorities seeking amendments thereto are examined in my Department to determine if legislative changes are warranted and feasible.
86 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Transport his views on a zero alcohol limit for learner drivers; if he will introduce same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35807/06]
The Road Safety Authority is currently developing a new Road Safety Strategy for the period 2007–2012. The Strategy is expected to be finalised in the first quarter of 2007. With regard to the possibility of reducing the blood alcohol concentration limit for learner drivers to zero, I expect the Road Safety Authority to carry out a detailed examination of this issue, taking into account matters such as EU and best international practice. I would be happy for my Department to engage with the Road Safety Authority on the outcome of such a detailed examination.
87 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport his policy regarding signage for alternative routes where roads or motorways are subjected to toll charges; if he is satisfied that this policy is being implemented fully and fairly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35595/06]
Under Section 19 of the Roads Act, 1993, the National Roads Authority has overall responsibility for the planning and supervision of works for the construction and maintenance of national roads. More specifically, the NRA has responsibility, under Section 19(1)(c) of the same Act, to prepare, or arrange for the preparation of, schemes for the provision of road signs. In the circumstances I have no function in the matter.
88 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he has signed the rail order to allow for the upgrade works on the Kildare line to begin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35801/06]
On 13 August last, I announced my decision to grant the Railway Order for the Kildare Rail Project, in line with the recommendations of the Inspector to the Public Inquiry into the project.
On that basis, the draft Order has been sent to the Office of the Attorney General for legal drafting.
When that process is complete, the Order will be submitted to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in relation to his consent for the provisions of the Order affecting roads, and I will sign the Order immediately thereafter.
In the meantime, I understand Iarnród Éireann has commenced enabling works and is proceeding with detailed design and procurement, with a view to the completion of the project in 2009.
89 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport the position in relation to the conclusion of an Open Skies agreement between Ireland and the US; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35804/06]
100 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Transport the position in relation to the bilateral transatlantic aviation agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35803/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 89 and 100 together.
The EU US Open Skies deal was discussed at the Transport Council on 12 October 2006. The Council underlined the importance it attaches to the conclusion of the EU US air transport agreement. It reaffirmed its unanimous satisfaction with the text of the draft agreement negotiated in November, 2005 but regretted the further delay in the US rule-making procedure relating to the ownership and control issue. The November, 2005 text includes the transitional measures relating to Ireland that I had agreed with my counterpart in the U.S. relating in particular to a phased change in the arrangements relating to Shannon.
The Council requested the Commission to continue its efforts, on the basis of further contacts with the United States to secure a satisfactory and balanced outcome with the necessary safeguards, including the transitional provisions, with a view to a decision at the December Transport Council. This would fulfil the commitments set out in the conclusion of the June 2006 EU US Summit in which both parties reaffirmed the commitment to reach agreement by the end of the year.
I again drew attention to the negative consequences of failure to finalise the agreement for those Member States that do not have open skies agreements in place already. I emphasized therefore the urgency of concluding this matter in December. In the meantime the existing arrangements in the Ireland US bilateral agreement will continue to apply.
I have given an undertaking to Aer Lingus that, in the event that an EU US agreement is not achievable within a reasonable timeframe, I intend to seek to implement, in accordance with applicable Community law, the essential elements of the transitional arrangements relating to Ireland by way of an amendment to the Ireland/United States bilateral treaty.
90 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport when the 200 extra buses allocated to Dublin Bus will be operational in their fleet; when the second round of the Dublin Bus network review, including the introduction of feeder bus services, will be commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35835/06]
94 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Transport if he will confirm the allocation of funding to Dublin Bus for the promised 100 new buses; the time scale for this delivery; and when they will be brought into service. [35783/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 90 and 94 together.
On the 28th of September 2006, my Department approved funding of €30m for the purchase of 100 additional buses and a further €2m for the upgrading of garage facilities at Broadstone. I understand from Dublin Bus that the additional buses will begin to enter into service by the end of the year. Delivery of the buses will be completed by end of January 2007. The deployment of the additional buses, including for feeder services, is a matter for Dublin Bus. In line with my announcement of 28 September, 100 buses are also to be procured by the proposed Dublin Transport Authority from the private sector, by way of competitive tendering. This forms part of an initiative to facilitate the entry of private operators by awarding franchises to operate routes accounting for 15% (approximately 200 buses).
92 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the status of the Aer Lingus business plan on which the IPO was based in view of the recent announcement to cut job numbers in the company. [35782/06]
This is a matter for the management of Aer Lingus, which is now a publicly listed company, and a matter in which I have no function.
93 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport the progress in providing barrier free tolling on the M50; and when he expects same to be operational. [35788/06]
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).
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 under way at present. In that context, the NRA has 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.
In relation to barrier free tolling legislation, I received Government approval on 17 October to the drafting of the Roads Amendment Bill 2006 which will include provisions to strengthen the statutory basis for barrier free tolling. I hope to bring the Bill before the Oireachtas by the end of this year.
95 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport the progress made on the consideration of the use of non-transparent windows in vehicles; and when he expects to announce regulatory change in respect of such windows. [35758/06]
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006), the Road Safety Authority is now responsible for vehicle standards.
96 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Transport when the route alignment proposals for Metro west will go before public consultation; and the time line thereafter for progressing the project. [35763/06]
The Railway Procurement Agency has made good progress on identifying feasible alignments and I understand that a number of possible route options will be presented for public consultation in the coming weeks.
It is expected that a preferred alignment will be identified in 2007, taking into account the outcome of this stage of public consultation. Thereafter a design will be developed, an EIS will be prepared, a business case for the project will be prepared and a formal application for a Railway Order will be made.
In line with the timeframes set out in Transport 21, Metro West is scheduled for completion in 2014.
101 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce legislation to permit congestion charges in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35596/06]
Transport 21 provides funding for demand management measures associated with the introduction and upgrade of transport infrastructure. I have constantly said that demand management, including congestion charging, will only be considered when a significant element of the new infrastructure is in place. Consequently, I have no immediate plans for legislation in this matter.
104 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Transport the additional measures which need to be put in place to allow for the introduction of mutual driving disqualification between Ireland and the UK; if this measure will be introduced in April 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35799/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions Nos. 6, 10 and 103 on Thursday, 28th September, 2006.
The framework for the mutual recognition of driving disqualifications is contained in the European Union Convention on Driving Disqualifications (98/C 216/01). The Convention relates to disqualifications arising from a range of specified traffic offences including drink-driving, speeding and dangerous driving. Irish legislation to support the application of the Convention is already in place and is contained in the Road Traffic Act, 2002.
In advance of the Convention fully coming into force and following a Ministerial meeting of the Transport Sectoral Group of the British-Irish Council on 9 February 2006, I have formally agreed with the UK Minister of State for Transport to enter into bilateral arrangements on the mutual recognition of driving disqualifications as envisaged in the EU Convention.
The UK Minister for State for Transport wrote to me recently advising me that the UK and NI authorities are working to have the necessary legislative and consultative processes complete to enable mutual recognition to be in place by April 2007. Officials continue to work to ensure that the necessary administrative arrangements are in place to enable relevant administrations to recognise and take action on driving disqualifications occurring in the other jurisdiction.
107 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Transport his views on a rail link between Limerick and Shannon Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35814/06]
In April of this year I requested that Iarnród Éireann undertake a feasibility study into a rail link from Ennis to Shannon. My Department is currently providing funding for this study. The company has engaged consultants to undertake this work. A steering group has been established, and includes a wide range of local interests. The study is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
108 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport if he will introduce legislation compelling local authorities to ensure the highest safety standards at road works by properly informing the public about road works and disposing of hazard signage when no longer needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30971/06]
Under section 95 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 the provision of any traffic sign, regulatory or non-regulatory, is the responsibility of the individual road authority. A separate category of orange coloured signs is provided by direction of the Minister for Transport in the Traffic Signs Manual for use at road works. The provision and subsequent timely removal of these signs at any location is a matter for each road authority.
109 Mr. McHugh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will introduce measures to ensure that all MRSA deaths are reported to the relative coroner where it is clear that the existence of the infection is either the primary or contributory cause of death and to have this fact properly reflected on the patients death certificate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35879/06]
The circumstances under which a death is reported to the relevant coroner falls within the jurisdiction of that coroner, being a quasi judicial authority charged with the independent investigation of death. Similarly, it is a matter for the coroner to determine what information regarding a death he or she requires in order to carry out this function. I have no role in this process but I understand that there has been contact between the Health Service Executive and the Dublin City Coroner's office on the specific matter raised by the Deputy.
110 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for citizenship by a person (details supplied); when the application will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35881/06]
The reference number provided by the Deputy is a generic number assigned to persons who have submitted application forms for naturalisation which are defective in some way. These forms are returned to the applicants either for amendment or for resubmission of freshly completed application forms, depending on the nature of the defect.
In the absence of more details including the name of the individual concerned, it is not possible to provide a more complete response.
111 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the names of the lawyers representing members of An Garda Síochána who have been afforded legal representation before the Morris Tribunal; and the amount paid to the aforementioned legal representatives at the latest date for which figures are available. [35882/06]
Approximately 70 members and former members of the Garda Síochána are not represented by the State either because they have so elected or where their actions are considered by the Garda Commissioner to be clearly in conflict with their positions as members of the Garda Síochána from the outset.
The State reimburses the legal costs of individuals including members of the Garda Síochána who are not represented by the State at the end of each module to the extent directed by the Tribunal in accordance with the relevant legislation. In that context, to date an amount of €609,538.46 has been paid to solicitors for the Garda Representative Association for work associated with the first module. Care was taken in the settlement of this bill of costs to ensure that all aspects of Judge Morris's ruling were complied with, particularly in respect of members whose costs were reduced or refused by reason of their non-cooperation or obstruction.
Finally, the names of the members of the legal team who represent the Commissioner and An Garda Síochána at the Morris Tribunal and the amounts paid to them to the end of October 2006 are set out in the following table.
|
Garda Legal Team |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Mr. Patrick Marrinan SC |
142,027.00 |
549,943.00 |
552,304.00 |
476,437.50 |
435,600.00 |
|
Mr. Michael Durack SC |
— |
207,817.00 |
554,098.00 |
571,725.00 |
441,014.50 |
|
Ms Tara Burns BL |
— |
122,815.00 |
355,740.00 |
319,440.00 |
292,215.00 |
|
Mr. Paul Gormley BL |
— |
93,926.00 |
107,561.00 |
98,993.53 |
112,636.42 |
|
Mr. Eamon Leahy SC (RIP) |
138,393.00 |
254,553.00 |
63,978.00 |
— |
— |
|
Ms Nuala Butler SC |
— |
243,815.00 |
60,802.00 |
— |
— |
112 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the costs to the latest available date paid to lawyers representing him at the Morris Tribunal; the names of the lawyers representing him; and the amount paid to each of the aforementioned. [35883/06]
The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the following table. The details are up to and including the 31 October 2006.
|
Department Legal Team |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Mr. Paul O’Higgins S.C. |
41,460.00 |
36,780.00 |
77,611.00 |
30,492.00 |
105,958.76 |
|
Mr. Fergal Foley BL |
26,015.00 |
25,908.00 |
51,280.00 |
59,969.00 |
41,900.96 |
|
Ms Mary Kerrigan BL |
— |
46,224.00 |
3,575.00 |
— |
— |
113 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action that will be taken to prevent bogus charities from operating door to door collections; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that these operators have been alleged to intimidate genuine charities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35910/06]
I can inform the Deputy that it is an offence, under Section 21 of the Street and House to House Collections Act, 1962, for a person to wrongfully interfere, whether by using violence or intimidation or otherwise, with the holder of a legitimate collection permit engaged in a collection in respect of which that authorisation was granted. Allegations of criminal activity, whether under this provision or otherwise, should be brought to the attention of the Gardaí.
I can further inform the Deputy that my colleague, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs is currently preparing a new Charities Regulation Bill. My understanding is that it is anticipated that the Bill will be published in early 2007 and will enhance the protections available for the public in this regard.
114 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the working group looking at the issue of pre-nuptial agreements, as announced in the week ending 28 October 2006, will be set up; the number of persons who will be on the working group; and when they will be in a position to finalise their report. [35968/06]
Following recent Government approval of my proposal, I expect to announce the composition of the working group on pre-nuptial agreements in the coming weeks. The group will consist of a small number of experts in family law and will include representatives of my Department and the Attorney General's Office. The group will study the operation of the law in this area and will be asked to report within a short timeframe.
115 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress of the application for naturalisation by a person (details supplied). [36001/06]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation on behalf of the person in question, who is a minor, was submitted by his mother to the Citizenship Section of my Department on 10 August 2006.
Due to the fact that applications on behalf of minors generally require less processing than standard adult applications, it is usually possible to finalise them more quickly. Based on current processing trends, it is likely that the application on behalf of the person concerned will be finalised towards the end of 2007.
I will advise the Deputy and the applicant when I have reached a decision in the matter.
116 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide a list of Garda stations that had closed circuit television installed in any or all interview rooms in May 2002; and the stations in which the cameras were operational. [36020/06]
I am informed by the Garda Authorities that it was not possible to provide the information sought in the time available. As soon as the information is to hand I will be in further contact with the Deputy.
117 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 115 of 28 September 2006, when the reduction in community Gardaí from 27 to 24 will be restored to 27 or increased above that number; the number of the 24 community Gardaí in Store Street who have received training with mountain bikes and who are engaged in mountain bike patrols; the number of the four community Gardaí assigned to the East Wall area who have received mountain bike training and have engaged in mountain bike patrols in East Wall; the names of the Gardaí concerned; when mountain bike training will be available to those community Gardaí in Store Street who are not as trained. [36022/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available in the detail sought and is currently being compiled by the Garda authorities. I will contact the Deputy again when the information is to hand.
118 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will allow a person (details supplied) in County Waterford to remain here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36047/06]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 25 June, 2002 and applied for asylum on 27 June, 2002. She withdrew her application for asylum on 13 November, 2002, on the basis of her Irish born child and stated that she wished to apply for residency.
The person in question was informed by letter dated 15 July, 2004 that there was no longer a separate process for making applications to remain in the State on the basis of an Irish born child and that the parent of an Irish born child does not derive an automatic right to remain in the State by virtue of that fact alone. Consequently, she was informed in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended by the Illegal Immigrants (Trafficking) Act 2000, that as a person who had withdrawn her asylum application, she no longer had permission to remain temporarily in the State, and as such, 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 a Deportation Order is made; consenting to the making of a Deportation Order. Representations in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, were received in my Department on 10 August, 2004, requesting that the person concerned be allowed to remain in the State.
An application was subsequently received from the person in question for permission to remain in the State on a temporary basis under the IBC/05 scheme on 11 March, 2005. She was refused permission to remain in the State under the scheme and was notified of the decision by letter dated 12 January, 2006. Consequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, she was informed on 5 September, 2006 that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of her. She was again given the options (as set out above) to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister.
Further representations have been made to my Department requesting that the person concerned be allowed to remain in the State. I expect the file in the matter to be submitted to me for decision in due course.
119 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a visa extension can or will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36056/06]
I understand from the Immigration Division of my Department that the permission to remain in respect of the person concerned expired on the 30th September 2006 and he has not sought to renew it.
The person concerned should seek to renew his permission to remain with his local Immigration Office. He should provide the following documentation:
1. Evidence of registration on a recognised course leading to a qualification recognised by the Department of Education & Science.
2. Evidence of fees paid.
3. Evidence of finances to indicate he is in a position to financially support himself.
4. Evidence of private medical insurance.
120 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if the maximum support will be given. [36057/06]
My Department has no record of a current application in respect of the person in question.
121 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that the mother of a full-time student cannot claim tax credits regarding their child due to the fact that they are living with but not married to their partner of 23 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36024/06]
122 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance if it is possible for an unmarried mother to have the tax credits of her partner of 23 years transferred to her; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36025/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 121 and 122 together.
I assume that when the Deputy refers to "the tax credits regarding their child" he has in mind the question of entitlement to the one-parent family tax credit which is provided for in section 462 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. The position is that, subject to the provisions of section 462, where a widowed, deserted, separated or unmarried person has a "qualifying child" resident with him or her for the whole or part of the year, the person shall be entitled to the one-parent family tax credit.
A "qualifying child" means—
(i) a child—
(I) born in the year of assessment,
(II) who, at the commencement of the year of assessment, is under the age of 18 years, or
(III) who, if over the age of 18 years at the commencement of the year of assessment
(A) is receiving full-time instruction at any university, college, school or other educational establishment, or
(B) is permanently incapacitated by reason of mental or physical infirmity from maintaining himself or herself and had become so permanently incapacitated before he or she had attained the age of 21 years or had become so permanently incapacitated after attaining the age of 21 years but while he or she had been in receipt of such full-time instruction; and
(ii) a child who is a child of the claimant or, not being such a child, is in the custody of the claimant and is maintained by the claimant at the claimant's own expense for the whole or part of the year of assessment.
However, the legislation specifically provides that the credit shall not apply in the case of a man and woman living together as man and wife. Accordingly, if the person to whom the Deputy refers in his question falls into this category, no one-parent family tax credit will be due.
On the question of the transfer of tax credits, the position is that there is no provision in the tax code that provides for the transfer of personal tax credits between unmarried partners whether cohabiting or not.
123 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Finance the reason a disabled passenger can claim more remission than a disabled driver under the present disabled drivers and passengers tax incentive scheme; and his plans to address this issue to ensure equality for both drivers and passengers under this scheme. [35874/06]
The Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme provides relief from VAT and VRT on the purchase of a car adapted for the transport of a person with specific severe and permanent physical disabilities, which results in considerable mobility problems, as well as relief from excise on the fuel used in the car up to a certain limit. The tax relief is restricted to vehicles with an engine size up to 2,000 cc in the case of a disabled driver and 4,000 cc in the case of a disabled passenger. This differential, and resultant difference in the maximum level of relief allowed, was introduced on the basis that a passenger may require a bigger and more expensive vehicle, for example a converted van that would be capable of taking a wheelchair.
A special Interdepartmental Review Group reviewed the operation of the Disabled Drivers Scheme. The terms of reference of the Group were to examine the operation of the existing scheme, including the difficulties experienced by the various groups and individuals involved with it, and to consider the feasibility of alternative schemes, with a view to assisting the Minister for Finance in determining the future direction of the scheme.
The Group's Report, published on my Department's website in July 2004, sets out in detail the genesis and development of the scheme. It examines the current benefits, the qualifying medical criteria, the Exchequer costs, relationship with other schemes and similar schemes in other countries. The Report also makes a number of recommendations, both immediate and long-term, referring respectively to the operation of the appeals process and options for the future development of the scheme.
In respect of the long-term recommendations, including one relating to a separation of the passenger and driver elements of the scheme, further changes can only be made after careful consideration given the scale and scope of the scheme. For this reason, the Government decided that the Minister for Finance would consider the recommendations contained in the Report of the Interdepartmental Review Group in the context of the annual budgetary process having regard to the existing and prospective cost of the scheme. This consideration is undertaken on a regular basis.
124 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if he will ring-fence additional resources in Budget 2007 for the provision of paediatric occupational therapy services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35946/06]
At this time of the year I receive a large number of pre-budget submissions requesting funding for a wide range of issues. I will keep the Deputy's representations in mind in the context of the forthcoming Budget.
125 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be furnished with a P21 for 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35999/06]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a PAYE Balancing Statement (Form P21) for 2005 issued to the taxpayer on 31 October 2006.
126 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance the status of the recently produced Phoenix Park Transportation Study; if he envisages a period of public consultation on its recommendations; the timescale over which he plans to have the individual recommendations implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36033/06]
I wish to confirm that the Study in question was formulated following wide ranging consultation and following completion of the report recently, a number of presentations on the Study were held for a number of interested parties including local elected representatives, local residents and statutory authorities. Consultation is currently ongoing.
The next step is to proceed with implementation of the principal measures recommended in the Study, taking into account the feedback from both the consultation and presentation processes. The broad objective is to commence implementation of the measures early in 2007 and review their effects after 4-6 months.
127 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm the Government expenditure out-turn for each of the past 10 years; and the percentage increase year on year. [36045/06]
The Gross total Voted Expenditure (including the Social Insurance Fund and the National Training Fund) over the past ten years with the percentage increase is set out in the table below:
|
Year |
Exchequer Outturn* |
Year-on-Year Increase |
|
€m |
% |
|
|
1996 |
17,332 |
4.3 |
|
1997 |
18,858 |
8.8 |
|
1998 |
20,512 |
8.8 |
|
1999 |
22,811 |
11.2 |
|
2000 |
25,925 |
13.7 |
|
2001 |
31,303 |
20.7 |
|
2002 |
35,808 |
14.4 |
|
2003 |
38,364 |
7.1 |
|
2004 |
40,751 |
6.2 |
|
2005 |
45,095 |
10.7 |
*The above table is based on cash spend. Therefore, capital carryover from 2004 onwards is counted in its year of expenditure.
A forecast outturn for 2006 will be included in the Abridged Estimates Volume to be published on 16th November next.
128 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children when the staffing grant will be awarded to an organisation (details supplied) in County Cork. [35908/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 (EOCP) and the National Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), which are being implemented by the Office of the Minister for Children. I understand that the Group in question has been approved total capital grant assistance of €1,507,384 under the EOCP, in respect of a proposal to develop a childcare facility. This funding is approved subject to the Group concluding a satisfactory contractual agreement with Pobal, which is engaged to administer the grants on behalf of the Office of the Minister for Children. In addition, the Group has also been approved staffing grant assistance of €161,000, up to 31 December 2007. I understand that the Childcare Directorate of my Office has advised the Group in question of these decisions.
129 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of inspectors employed by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland to enforce the country of origin of beef regulations in restaurants, hotels and pubs; the number of food outlets subject to these regulations; the number of inspections of such premises that have been carried out since the regulations came into force; the number of food establishments found to be non-compliant with the regulations; the number of prosecutions that have resulted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36012/06]
The responsibility for implementation of the Health (Country of Origin of Beef) Regulations 2006 (SI 307 of 2006) lies with the Food Safety of Ireland (FSAI). There are over 44,000 food businesses in Ireland of which 29,000 are in the service sector, which includes restaurants, hotels and pubs. These food businesses are inspected on a routine basis by the Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) in the Health Service Executive (HSE) operating under a service contract with the FSAI.
Approximately 220 EHOs are employed by the HSE for food control activities. Inspections primarily focus on compliance with hygiene and food safety requirements. Checks on compliance with the Health (Country of Origin of Beef) Regulations are being incorporated into routine inspections for establishments covered by these Regulations. To date no prosecutions have been taken for breaches of the Regulations. The FASI intends to distribute written guidance for all caterers on how to comply with the Regulations.
130 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason persons (details supplied) in Dublin 5 were refused their domiciliary care allowance; and if assistance will be given with speech and language therapy services. [35875/06]
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.
131 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3 and the Health Nursing Homes Amendment Bill 2006. [35876/06]
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.
In relation to the Health (Nursing Homes) (Amendment) Bill 2006, this Bill was designed to put the current subvention scheme, as currently provided for under the Nursing Home Regulations 1993, on a sound statutory footing. The Bill is currently on its passage through the Houses of the Oireachtas.
132 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if a redress board will be set up to compensate MRSA victims and their families; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35877/06]
141 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if a judicial inquiry will be held into the non-implementation of the national guidelines contained in the 1995 Control of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus in the Irish Health Care Setting, the non-supervised full implementation and non-compliance by hospitals and health care settings with the 2005 strategy for the control of antimicrobial resistance in Ireland and the failure to supervise the full implementation of that strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35941/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 132 and 141 together.
My Department has no plans at present to set up a judicial enquiry or a redress board to compensate people who have contracted MRSA. The control of Health Care Associated Infections (HCAIs) including MRSA continues to be a priority for the HSE. Measures to control the emergence and spread of HCAIs are necessary because there are fewer options available for the treatment of resistant infections and because these strains spread amongst vulnerable at-risk patients. The prudent use of antibiotics underpins any approach to the control of antibiotic resistant bacteria, including MRSA. This, together with good professional practice and routine infection control precautions, such as hand hygiene, constitute the major measures in controlling and preventing health care-associated infection, including that caused by MRSA, both in hospital and in community health care units.
The implementation of the revised SARI Guidelines on the control and prevention of MRSA in hospitals and in the community, the "Clean Hands Campaign", the National Hygiene Audits and the development of national standards in relation to infection control and hospital hygiene are also aimed at addressing the challenges presented by HCAIs.
133 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will set up a national directorate for the inspection, prevention and control of MRSA and other hospital acquired infections; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35878/06]
Infection prevention and control in health institutions is a matter for the Health Service Executive (HSE), as part of its overall responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services. The HSE has put in place a number of structures at local, regional and national levels to address this issue. For example, to date, two National Hygiene Audits have been carried out in acute hospitals under the auspices of the National Hospitals Office. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the HSE to address the issue raised in the question and to reply directly to the Deputy.
134 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide a progress report on the implementation of Reach Out, the National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35901/06]
The actions identified in Reach Out, the National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention are to be implemented over the next 5 to 10 years. The Health Service Executive (HSE) is taking a lead role in overseeing the implementation of Reach Out, in partnership with those statutory and voluntary organisations that have a key role to play in making the actions happen. The HSE established the National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP) to oversee the implementation of the strategy.
There are just over 90 action points in Reach Out, and they are divided into 3 phases for implementation. Phase 1 covers 30 actions which are to be implemented over the next 3 years. The NOSP 12-point action plan for 2006 is as follows:
prepare for the launch, early in 2007, of a national mental well-being campaign in conjunction with non-governmental organisations;
ensure full coverage in hospital A&E departments of appropriate services to respond to presentations of deliberate self harm;
development and delivery of training and awareness programmes for communities, organisations and professionals;
support the development of bereavement services;
address the outcome of research undertaken by the National Suicide Research Foundation into appropriate methods of data collection relating to suicides;
complete research into the link between institutional abuse and suicide;
pilot a primary Care/Deliberate Self Harm Service;
work with the media to improve reporting of suicide and deliberate self harm;
agree a national programme of appropriate research on suicide prevention in Ireland;
explore ways of reaching young people through email, text messaging in order to develop a sustainable support service;
establish a national forum of key stakeholders who will be briefed by the National Office for Suicide Prevention on the achievements overall in suicide prevention and, in particular, in relation to strategy implementation; and
commission research into the link between traveller health and suicide.
The first annual report of the National Office, outlining suicide prevention activities in 2005 was published in September 2006. It details activities in 26 areas covering general population, targeted approach, responding to suicide and information and research. This annual report will meet the requirement of the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2001 which requires a report on activities in the area of suicide prevention to be presented to the houses of the Oireachtas each year. This annual report will provide an important tool in monitoring progress in meeting the priority objectives of the Strategy and in reporting on rates of suicidal behaviour, which it is hoped will be significantly reduced over the coming years.
135 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the ongoing acute shortage of nurses; the way she proposes to address the increasing dependence on agency nurses; her proposals for ensuring sufficient qualified nurses are available in the hospital service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35902/06]
I do not agree with the contention that there is an acute shortage of nurses. Ireland has one of the highest nurse to population ratios in the world. The Government has been successful in attracting an additional 10,200 nurses and midwives into the public health service over the last nine years. The number of nurses employed in the health service reached an all time high in the most recent personnel census. At the end of June 2006 there were 35,818 whole time equivalent (42,311 individual) nurses and midwives in the public health service. This is an increase of almost 40% since 1997.
The most recent National Survey on Nursing Resources report (March 2006) from the Health Service Executive — Employers Agency shows a national vacancy rate of just over 3%. There are obviously regional and sectoral variations in the vacancy rate but an overall rate of 3% could not be considered excessive. The Nursing Resources reports have been produced on a quarterly basis since 2000 and they consistently show that recruitment is ahead of resignations and retirements.
A combination of agency nurses and overtime working provides an additional input of nursing resources to cope with difficulties arising in the provision of services while employers continue the recruitment process to fill vacancies. In addition to covering vacancies, agency nurses are also used to ‘special' (one to one nursing) patients and clients. Agency nursing is also used to cover for permanent nursing staff availing of various leave entitlements. The Health Service Executive has responsibility for managing nursing resources including agency nursing. I understand that the HSE is closely monitoring the usage of agency nurses and it is working with a number of the larger hospitals to establish a pilot project aimed at reducing reliance on agency nurses.
Ensuring an adequate supply of nurses for hospitals has been a concern of this Government for some time, and a number of substantial measures have been introduced in recent years. The annual number of undergraduate nursing training places has been increased by 94% since 1998 to 1,880 places from 2006 onwards. There are over 6,000 students in the system at any one time. Revenue funding for the undergraduate training programme is €115m per annum and the Government has provided €250m capital funding since 2002 to build thirteen new schools of nursing. The first cohort of students from the new four year degree programme graduated and registered as nurses earlier this year.
In addition to training additional nurses it is also important that work systems are constantly monitored and adapted to ensure the best outcomes for patients. The increased use of health care assistants and better skill mix will help to ensure that our nursing care teams will continue to be able to deal with the growing demands on the health service.
I am confident that the extensive range of measures to increase the domestic supply of nurses together with the more effective utilisation of the professional skills of nurses and midwives and the recruitment of overseas nurses, in addition to close monitoring and assessment of the situation on an ongoing basis, will continue to prove effective in addressing the nursing workforce needs of hospitals in the public health service.
136 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children if the condition of dementia will be prioritised by the provision of education and awareness programmes aimed at the general public, general practitioners and other health care providers to tackle prejudice and discrimination encountered by those with dementia and their carers on a regular basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35903/06]
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.
137 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children her proposals to improve services to the 35,000 rheumatoid arthritis sufferers here; if she will provide additional consultants to relieve lengthy referral waiting periods for sufferers and provide for the 59% of sufferers with no access to physiotherapy or hydrotherapy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35904/06]
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 HSE to address the issue raised in the question and to reply directly to the Deputy.
138 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of samples of rice from Chinese specialty stores that have been tested here since it has become known that an unauthorised genetically modified rice, known as Bt63, had been detected in products imported from China for sale in Chinese speciality stores in the UK, France and Germany; the date these tests were carried out; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35912/06]
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) is the competent authority in Ireland for the enforcement of EU legislation regarding genetically modified (GM) foods. The FSAI has not yet taken samples of Chinese rice due to the absence of a validated test method for the detection of Bt63 rice. Once a validated test method is confirmed by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC), effective testing can then be undertaken.
In September the European Commission informed Member States of reports received from NGOs to the effect that a GM rice, Bt63, not authorised for use anywhere in the world, had been detected in products imported by Chinese specialty stores in the UK, France and Germany. However, the testing method used by the NGOs to detected Bt63 has yet to be validated by the JRC. The Commission requested further information on the rice products from the Chinese authorities and in the context of applying controls, asked the Ministry of Agriculture in China to provide control samples of Bt63 as a matter of urgency.
In a letter dated 27 October 2006, the Commission informed Member States that it had just received official replies from the Chinese authorities stating that the Ministry of Agriculture in China is working on the validation of the detection method for Bt63 rice; when the method is fully validated it will be provided to the JRC, together with standards and control samples, in order to help detection of GM rice. The Commission has indicated that similar emergency measures to those taken with the GM RICE LL 601 will be introduced if considered necessary based on information as it becomes available.
139 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children further to the recent amendment by the Irish Medicines Board for the authorisation of Buprenorphine to be allowed to be prescribed by general practitioners with specialist training, the timeframe for her considerations of this authorisation; if there are obstacles; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35939/06]
I am aware that the drug Buprenorphine (trade name Subutex) is being proposed as an alternative to methadone in the treatment of opiate dependent addicts. The current position is that Buprenorphine can be prescribed to opiate users by addiction service consultants in specialist drug treatment clinics, where the prescription and dispensing of Buprenorphine is tightly controlled. The Irish Medicines Board has recently amended the authorisation for Buprenorphine to allow it to be prescribed by General Practitioners who have specialist training in its use. My Department is considering the implications of this revised authorisation, especially in view of the diversion potential of Buprenorphine. I am informed that the combination drug Naloxone/Buprenorphine may be available in the EU towards the end of 2006, and that preliminary studies have shown that the combination drug is as effective as Buprenorphine alone in the management of opioid dependence and that it has less abuse potential.
140 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to concerns expressed by persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she will ensure that an independent inquiry is carried out into this tragedy to ascertain the full facts of the case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35940/06]
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.
142 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35943/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
143 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will sanction additional resources for the provision of paediatric occupational therapy services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35944/06]
144 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children that are currently placed on a waiting list following their referral for paediatric occupational therapy services, on a county basis; and the average length a child placed at a lower priority status can wait to receive an appointment for each Health Service Executive region. [35945/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 143 and 144 together.
The Deputy's questions relate to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have these matters investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
145 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the hospital locations in Dublin where it is possible to land by helicopter in accordance with accepted standards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35957/06]
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.
146 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo was assessed for a primary medical certificate; and if so, the outcome of the assessment. [36000/06]
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.
147 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Question No. 753 of 27 September 2006, the outcome of an examination into the feasibility of introducing the vaccine damage compensation scheme; when such a scheme will be put in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36029/06]
The issue of vaccine damage, including a compensation scheme, is being considered by my Department at present and that examination will be concluded shortly.
148 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the members of the committee who assess applications for foreshore licences and in each case the expertise that they bring to bear on applications; his plans to ensure that persons with an understanding of landscape or visual impact are retained in order to assist in the assessment of off-shore wind farms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35869/06]
The Department consults with a range of statutory consultees, various experts within the Department and other state agencies when considering an application for a Foreshore Licence.
In cases where an Environmental Impact Statement is required applications are assessed by the Marine Licence Vetting Committee (MLVC) which advises the Department on the appropriateness of issuing a licence and will generally also advise on conditions which should attach to the licence. The members of the MLVC have a broad range of skills and experience which qualifies them to assess such applications. Two members of the Committee possess specific qualifications in relation to Environmental Impact Assessment Management and are fully competent in all aspects of this Environmental Impact Assessment process. The current members of the MLVC are: Dr. Terry McMahon, Chairperson, Marine Institute; Mr. Trevor Champ, Senior Research Officer, Central Fisheries Board; Ms. Margot Cronin, Marine Environment Chemist, Marine Institute; Dr. Francis X. O'Beirn, Benthic Monitoring, Marine Institute; Captain Nick Cantwell, Navigation Expert, Marine Safety Directorate; Mr Allan Williams, Engineer, Engineering Division, Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.
Photomontages are required to be submitted with the Environmental Impact Statement for proposed Offshore electricity generating stations (Wind Farms). The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources in consultation with the Local Authorities indicate to the applicant the site at which the photographs should be taken. The proposed installations are then superimposed, to scale, onto these photographs. These photomontages are made available during the public consultation process.
149 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the breakdown of the projects funded by Sustainable Energy Ireland in 2005 according to the type of scheme, the name of the organisation to which the funding was awarded and the amount of money received by each organisation. [35870/06]
Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), which was established as a statutory agency in May 2002, implements a wide range of programmes on energy efficiency and renewable energy. In 2005, SEI received funding of €16.151 million for its activities. This figure comprised a capital allocation of €10 million and a current allocation of €6.151 million.
In all SEI paid out a total of €6,748,000.00 in grant aid to demonstration projects in 2005. This figure does not include commissioned studies and reports, educational support, or programme operation and promotion in respect of SEI's activities in 2005.
The table below gives details of the expenditure to demonstration projects in 2005.
|
Projects funded in 2005 |
€ |
|
Public Sector Design Study Support Scheme |
|
|
Cavan County Council |
2,000.00 |
|
2,000.00 |
|
|
Public Sector Model Solutions Investment Support Scheme |
|
|
Dublin Institute of Technology |
24,176.00 |
|
Cork County Council |
26,544.00 |
|
Cork County Council |
445,000.00 |
|
Dundalk Institute of Technology |
419,505.00 |
|
Limerick City Fire Brigade |
1,463.00 |
|
University College Cork |
132,557.00 |
|
County Laois VEC |
53,100.00 |
|
University of Limerick |
38,391.00 |
|
Western Health Board |
15,841.00 |
|
Kildare County Council |
399,939.25 |
|
University College Dublin |
8,833.31 |
|
North Tipperary County Council |
3,102.00 |
|
1,568,451.56 |
|
|
Energy Management Bureau |
|
|
University College Dublin |
78,165.00 |
|
78,165.00 |
|
|
Low Income Housing |
|
|
Cúnamh Energy Action |
192,672.00 |
|
Southill Community Services Board |
41,702.71 |
|
Northside Community Enterprises Safe Ltd |
241,880.25 |
|
Clondalkin Home Improvement Project |
161,062.25 |
|
Meitheal Forbartha na Gaeltachta |
81,565.00 |
|
Wexford Area Partnership |
85,306.25 |
|
Energy Action |
43,365.00 |
|
Action Inishowen |
10,699.00 |
|
Energy Action |
68,941.00 |
|
Clár ICH |
24,250.00 |
|
951,443.46 |
|
|
Renewable Energy RD&D |
|
|
Tarmonbarry Hydroelectric Ltd |
238,000.00 |
|
Meenacloghspar Ltd |
67,288.00 |
|
Aertech |
19,450.00 |
|
ESBI Consultants |
11,428.50 |
|
Water Power Services |
4,708.00 |
|
Clearpower Ltd |
3,582.00 |
|
Dr Martin J Leahy |
39,910.55 |
|
University College Cork |
88,636.75 |
|
Independent Biomass Systems Ltd |
200,000.00 |
|
Gaoth Tec Teo |
1 35,359.24 |
|
Anthony Childs |
5,325.00 |
|
ERC, University College Dublin |
54,220.91 |
|
Ocean Energy Ltd |
103,326.00 |
|
Dublin Institute of Technology |
30,012.00 |
|
Dundalk Institute of Technology |
15,927.00 |
|
ART Generation |
30,821.00 |
|
Wavebob Ltd |
14,877.36 |
|
ERC, University College Dublin |
14,145.00 |
|
MosArt Landscaping Architecture Research |
17,852.00 |
|
University College Dublin |
35,312.35 |
|
Golden Vale Marts |
8,214.00 |
|
Hydam Technology Ltd |
19,219.00 |
|
Inchydoney Island Lodge Hotel |
48,895.00 |
|
CSA Group Ltd |
19,826.25 |
|
Tipperary Energy Agency |
13,444.00 |
|
Irish Rural Link |
19,865.00 |
|
Renetech Ltd |
15,488.00 |
|
Wavebob Ltd |
60,633.00 |
|
ART Generation |
9,639.45 |
|
CRE, Dundalk Institute of Technology |
8,050.00 |
|
Wavebob Ltd |
79,360.00 |
|
1,432,815.36 |
|
|
CHP/District Heating |
|
|
BMF Business Services |
11,676.00 |
|
Diageo |
20,250.00 |
|
Cadburys |
3,250.00 |
|
BMF Business Services |
23,297.00 |
|
58,473.00 |
|
|
House of Tomorrow RD&D |
|
|
Dublin City Council |
50,000.00 |
|
Brothers of Charity |
8,746.00 |
|
Century Homes Ltd |
82,251.00 |
|
Moritz Elliot Ltd |
259,265.00 |
|
Tralee Town Council |
170,000.00 |
|
Oak Heights Ltd |
22,500.00 |
|
Galway City Council |
74,000.00 |
|
Waterford County Council |
48,000.00 |
|
Magahy & Co |
75,000.00 |
|
Dublin City Council |
15,618.00 |
|
Sherborough Enterprises Ltd |
131,250.00 |
|
Radon Ireland Group Ltd |
30,000.00 |
|
Wexford County Council |
113,000.00 |
|
Des Foley |
45,000.00 |
|
Pinnacle Developments |
152,000.00 |
|
Mulvey Developments Drumshanbo Ltd |
22,500.00 |
|
John Flanagan Developments Ltd |
74,375.00 |
|
McInerny Homes Ltd |
50,000.00 |
|
Stackallen Construction |
65,000.00 |
|
Castlethorn Construction |
187,500.00 |
|
Waterford City Council |
20,000.00 |
|
Shannon Cove Ltd |
90,000.00 |
|
Heneghan & Sons (Blacksod) Ltd |
68,750.00 |
|
Cluainín Community Development |
18,701.15 |
|
Westmeath County Council |
35,000.00 |
|
Geda Construction Ltd |
25,000.00 |
|
Dolan & Waldron Ltd |
45,000.00 |
|
Daintree Ltd |
17,000.00 |
|
Co. Donegal Housing Association for the Mentally Handicapped |
15,000.00 |
|
Rhatigans Developments Ltd |
144,375.00 |
|
Radora Developments Ltd |
266,000.00 |
|
The Cool Power Company Ltd |
3,350.25 |
|
Kilcorney Community Development Association |
25,000.00 |
|
Birchvale Homes |
180,000.00 |
|
2,629,181.40 |
|
|
Industry RD&D |
|
|
Newlands Cross Hotels |
26,871.00 |
|
26,871.00 |
150 Mr. M. Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects the pilot programme for the automation of rural post offices to be extended nationwide to all post offices in rural areas to ensure community cohesion and to provide for persons who cannot travel to larger post offices in urban areas. [35871/06]
Any future decision regarding the automation of post offices is a matter for the Board and Management of An Post and one in which I have no function.
In relation to the status of the pilot project on automation, I understand that it was finalised at the end of September 2006. I understand that the company will now review the data and assess the impact of the trial at the offices concerned in relation to various factors including additional costs of automation, additional levels of business and revenues generated as well as displacement of business. It is my understanding that the question of extending automation to non-automated offices will be guided by the outcome of the evaluation process, which I have been informed, should be completed by the first quarter of 2007.
151 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of persons currently employed in his Department whose status has changed to that of disabled since the commencement of their employment with his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35895/06]
The status of ten staff of my Department has changed to that of disabled since they commenced employment in my Department.
152 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the European limit set legally for dioxins in respect of wet weight fish; the scale of dioxins found in wild Atlantic salmon to date; the scale of dioxins found on farmed salmon here; if he is satisfied that such findings constitute no threat to consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35947/06]
Commission Regulation 2375/2001 sets a maximum limit for dioxins and furans of 4 pg WHO-PCDD/F-TEQ/g fresh weight in fish and fishery products and products thereof.
The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) and the Marine Institute, in collaboration with Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), recently carried out a substantial survey of various persistent organic pollutants in Irish fish and also selected processed products. Sampling was carried out in the latter part of 2004 and a report is currently in press. As part of this study, 10 samples of wild Irish caught Atlantic salmon were collected and 15 different sites were sampled for farmed Atlantic salmon. The results showed that levels of dioxins and furans in wild Atlantic salmon were very low, with a range of 0.13-0.61 and median of 0.32 pg WHO-PCDD/F-TEQ/g fresh weight.
As with the wild salmon, the levels of dioxins in all samples of farmed salmon were well below the EC maximum limits with a range for dioxins and furans of 0.25-0.82, and median 0.49 pg WHO-PCDD/F-TEQ/g fresh weight. This study confirms a previous collaborative study between the FSAI and the Marine Institute (2001) where all dioxin levels in farmed and wild salmon were well within European legislative limits. Furthermore, in the recent survey significant reductions of dioxins and furans in Irish farmed salmon could be observed in comparison to levels measured in the 2001 FSAI/MI survey.
Although fish is a recognised dietary source of dioxins, the health benefits of eating fish are well established, and on the basis of these results the FSAI considers that there is no need to alter current advice on fish consumption. Current advice is that consumers should eat two portions of fish a week, one of which should be oily.
Explanatory notes
Dioxins (also referred to as dioxins and furans) — The term ‘dioxins' covers a group of 75 polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (PCDD) and 135 polychlorinated dibenzofuran (PCDF) congeners, of which 17 are of toxicological concern. Dioxins have no known commercial applications but are formed during certain combustion processes and as by-products of certain industrial processes.
Toxic Equivalents (TEQs) — Dioxins and furans are generally not reported as direct concentrations but as toxic equivalents. The concentrations are expressed as a relative toxicity to the most toxic compound (TCDD) using toxic equivalence factors (TEFs). The TEFs used are those established by the World Health Organisation.
153 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the tonnage quota allocated to Ireland for horse mackerel for 2006; the extent of the season involved; the way premium quality is maintained for the Japanese market; his views on whether smaller quantities over a longer period might be more appropriate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35948/06]
Under the 2006 TAC (total allowable catch) and quota arrangements, agreed by the Council of Fisheries Ministers in December 2005, Ireland received quota allocations for two horse mackerel fisheries. For the main horse mackerel fishery, located in ICES areas Vb (EC waters), VI, VII VIIIabde, XII and XIV, Ireland received a quota of 31,934 tonnes of horse mackerel. Ireland was also given a quota of 1,612 tonnes for the smaller horse mackerel fishery in ICES areas IIa (EC waters) and IV (EC waters).
The horse mackerel season is normally the spring and autumn of each year. This spring, although the quota for the smaller fishery was fully taken by mid-January, the larger fishery remained open to eligible vessels until the start of May 2006. It was closed at that time to preserve the remaining quota for the more valuable autumn fishery. This fishery re-opened at the beginning of September and will remain open until the end of the year or until the quota is fully taken, whichever comes first. Irish vessels cater to the Japanese market's demand for freshness by landing horse mackerel catches within 24 hours. In addition, most Irish vessels in the fishery are equipped with refrigerated seawater tanks that maintain catches at peak freshness.
New horse mackerel management arrangements were introduced for the 2006 fishery following consultations with industry representatives. Fishing vessels were given allocations for the year based on a number of criteria including track record. Following further consultations with industry representatives, a 20 tonne by-catch allocation was made available to boats participating in the autumn mackerel fishery. The system for managing the quota in this fishery has been developed in consultation with Irish fishing industry representatives. I will keep developments in the fishery under review, and any changes to the management of the stock can be explored as required.
154 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if a system for net billing exists for the sale of excess electricity produced from domestic wind turbines into the National Grid; his views on whether such a facility would be beneficial generally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35949/06]
Recent analysis undertaken by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) Metering Options for Small Scale Renewable and CHP Electricity Generation has identified a number of areas requiring further work including the ability of such processes to secure adequate payment for their exports, a review of connection standards and processes for smaller generators, and the implications of the Single Electricity Market for small-scale electricity generation.
The CER has also recently launched a public consultation on arrangements for micro generation which covers metering issues.
My Department and all relevant agencies and bodies are working to ensure that the appropriate administrative, technical and safety standards and practices are in place to underpin programmes for the widespread deployment of micro generation technologies. I am confident that appropriate solutions suited to the context of the Irish electricity grid and for non-grid connected technologies will be developed with a view to progressing this emerging sector.
155 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of processing plants currently involved in the pelagic fish processing industry as against the number operating in 1996; the reason for the decline in processing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35950/06]
It is estimated that the number of plants operating in the pelagic processing industry in 1996 was 29. The number of companies who now operate exclusively in the pelagic processing sector is 16. There are number of reasons for the decline such as a decrease in the volume of raw material, rationalisation and diversification into processing other species. The Total Allowable Catch for herring and horse mackerel stocks of importance to Ireland have decreased substantially since the mid 1990's. In recent years, the mackerel TAC has also declined. The total pelagic quotas available to Ireland in 1998 was 200,000 tonnes while the current quotas for the same group of species amount to 116,774 tonnes.
Taking into account the importance of the pelagic industry to the Irish fishing industry, the decline in the pelagic processing sector is a matter of concern. In order to examine the issues and bring forward a development strategy, I appointed an independent Seafood Strategy Review Group in June 2006 to devise a strategy for a sustainable and profitable Irish Seafood industry over the period 2007-13, of which the processing sector is a key component.
Its task is to develop a comprehensive, integrated, market-led vision for the future of the Irish seafood sector, based on a strategy centred on innovation, product development and value maximization for our coastal communities, together with sustainable management of marine resources and ecosystems in the waters around Ireland.
The Strategy Review is to be completed at an early date. Its findings will also feed into the new National Development Plan for the period 2007-13.
I believe that this Strategy, along with the new National Development Plan, will chart a course for the sector, including the processing sector and the coastal communities dependent on marine industries, and will ensure comprehensive, integrated and ongoing development through the 2007-13 period.
156 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the quota for herring for the north and west area; the extent of landings of this quota; if he is satisfied that the maximum return is achieved from this quota, in view of the method of processing; and if he has further satisfied himself that quality is maintained as a consequence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35951/06]
Herring to the North and West of Ireland is divided between two International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES) Management areas and Ireland has a quota in each area. The revised Irish quota for Herring in 2006 in ICES Division VIa N (waters to north of Ireland) is 4,569 tonnes with recorded landings of 561 tonnes for the period 1st January to 30th September 2006. In ICES area VIa(s), VIIbc (Waters to north and west of Ireland), Ireland has a quota of 15,046 tonnes with recorded landings of 9,029 tonnes for the same period. I am advised that all Herring landings by Irish vessels have been made into Irish ports and have been processed in Irish factories. However, I consider that there are opportunities to strengthen the returns from this and other fisheries. In order to examine the issues and bring forward a development strategy, I appointed an independent Seafood Strategy Review Group in June 2006 to devise a strategy for a sustainable and profitable Irish Seafood industry over the period 2007-13.
Its task is to develop a comprehensive, integrated, market-led vision for the future of the Irish seafood sector, based on a strategy centered on innovation, product development and value maximization for our coastal communities, together with sustainable management of marine resources and ecosystems in the waters around Ireland.
The Strategy Review is to be completed at an early date. Its findings will also feed into the new National Development Plan for the period 2007-13.
I believe that this Strategy, along with the new National Development Plan, will chart a course for the sector, including the processing sector and the coastal communities dependent on marine industries, and will ensure comprehensive, integrated and ongoing development through the 2007-13 period.
157 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the quota allocated in respect of herring for the Celtic Sea; the way this is currently managed; his views on whether a higher quota in this area is justified; if he is satisfied that there is no threat to sustainability of the stock in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35952/06]
Under the 2006 TAC and quota arrangements, agreed by the Council of Fisheries Ministers in December 2005, Ireland received a quota of 9,549 tonnes of herring in the Celtic Sea (ICES area VIIghjk).
This fishery is managed in consultation with the Celtic Sea Management Advisory Committee, a body composed of industry representatives. The fishery is normally opened for seasons in the spring, summer and autumn of each year. These seasons are managed on a weekly basis. Eligible vessels wishing to participate in the fishery during a given week must advise the Department in advance in order to book in. Those vessels that have booked in for a particular week are then allocated an amount of Celtic Sea herring quota for that period.
Scientific advice for this stock was published in June of this year. This advice recommends that a management plan should be put in place for this stock to help rebuild it. The Marine Institute, in conjunction with the Irish fishing industry, has been working on the development of a management plan for this fishery. In the forthcoming annual negotiations on the Total Allowable Catches (TACs) and Quotas for 2007, scheduled to take place in December, I will be seeking to ensure that the level of TAC set takes into account any management plan which may be introduced for the fishery.
158 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of European pelagic freezer vessels that currently operate in Irish waters; the way the activity of these vessels are monitored; the extent of landings, discards and quotas for these vessels for 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006; his views on whether failure to monitor these leaves shore based industry at a disadvantage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35953/06]
A number of EU Member States have quota entitlements for pelagic species in waters around Ireland and therefore their vessels, including pelagic freezer vessels, fish in Irish waters. The number of these vessels operating at any one time varies. Insofar as fisheries control and surveillance is concerned, the position is that all fishing vessels operating within the Irish fisheries patrol area are subject to checks by Irish control authorities, at sea or in Irish ports. Checks at sea of freezer vessels are particularly difficult. However, during inspections every effort is made by the Naval Service to verify that the catch on board agrees with that recorded in the logbook which is done by means of sampling. The primary focus of control of freezer vessels is inspection of landings. Procedures for such controls are outlined in Council Regulation 51/2006, Annex III. It should be noted that pelagic freezer vessels do not land their catch into Ireland.
In relation to quota uptake, it is the duty under EU law for each flag state to monitor quota uptake by their own vessels. I do not have specific landing data for pelagic freezer vessels of other Member States. When fisheries are closed as a result of the quota of a Member State being exhausted, the Naval Service is pro-active in monitoring the closure.
While statistics on the level of discarding are not readily available I am aware that the discarding of fish has become an increasing problem in recent years. I am committed to working with industry, the Commission and other Member States to find solutions that will ensure that, as far as possible, fish are not discarded. Discarding and "high grading" are very serious problems with pelagic freezer vessels and Ireland has been to the forefront in seeking action on this issue. I have strongly pressed the European Commission for the introduction of an observer programme for all large pelagic vessels. I will continue to focus on this issue and will work together with like minded Member States and with industry to deliver a strengthened monitoring and control regime to address the unacceptable practices of discarding and "high grading".
159 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources Ireland’s quota for blue whiting; the method of division of this quota; the number of pelagic boats receiving quota; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35954/06]
The revised Irish quota for Blue Whiting in 2006 is 53,399 tonnes. There was no individual quota issued to vessels in this fishery in 2006 and all boats were allowed to participate in the fishery. In 2006 23 refrigerated salt water (RSW) vessels and two Polyvalent vessels took part. This fishery was closed on the 3rd of March 2006.
160 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will make provision for the necessary changes for a pier (details supplied) in County Mayo, in view of the fact that minor works took place and that there is a great need for further works at this area to enable unrestricted access to and from this pier; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35978/06]
The Department co-funded a report with Mayo County Council and the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs titled An Assessment of Piers, Harbours and Landing Places in County Mayo. Doogort Pier is identified as category 2, which is a low priority, where development and repairs are less desirable but should be considered if resources were available. However, Engineering Division in the Department will carry out an inspection of the pier in the immediate future to determine if any necessary safety needs require addressing.
The question of providing funding for Doogort Pier will depend on the amount of Exchequer funding available for works at fishery harbours taking into account overall national priorities in the post 2006 period.
161 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the recent research (details supplied) which shows that young wild salmon are being infected by sea lice from fish farms located at the mouths of their spawning rivers; and his plans to relocate fish farms from such sensitive sites to ensure ecological separation and meet the legal requirements to conserve this protected species. [36031/06]
In recent years, monitoring of both wild and farmed fish stocks has shown an increase in the level of sea lice infestation. There are a number of factors that may have contributed to this increase. They include increased winter sea temperatures, the impact of fish health on treatment efficacy and fallowing strategies.
I am acutely aware that the increase in the incidence of sea lice poses a major challenge for both the fish farming and the wild fishery sectors. In the case of licensed fish farms a national monitoring and control programme is carried out by the Marine Institute in accordance with the principles and objectives set out in the Department's Protocol for Sea Lice Monitoring and Control, which was published in 2000. The level of monitoring undertaken in this country and the threshold at which remedial action is taken compares very favourably with other States and is appropriate to the situation.
A High Level Group has been established by the Department to examine all aspects of the issue. This Group will be guided by the need to ensure that lice levels are reduced to, and kept at, the lowest possible levels, to the mutual benefit of fish farmers and wild fisheries interests and will also take account of emerging scientific or technological initiatives in this field.
162 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether Defence Forces personnel currently serving in Bosnia might be able to give assistance to persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36021/06]
166 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the assistance his Department has given to persons (details supplied); if the family have made further requests for assistance; if he is considering their request; if he will meet with the immediate family and hear their concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36019/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 162 and 166 together.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy in Slovenia, which is also accredited to Bosnia and Herzegovina, has provided active consular assistance and support to the family of the person in question. In this regard, the Embassy in Slovenia has been in on-going contact with the relevant authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including with the local police force, rescue services, politicians and senior officials in the region in which the town of Medjugorje is situated.
A diplomatic officer of the Embassy travelled to the region to liaise with local police, relevant agencies and with officials involved in the search. During the visit, the officer also had many meetings with family members of the missing person. Subsequently, our Ambassador travelled to Medjugorje, and to the regional capital Mostar, to review the search arrangements.
Since the person's disappearance, there has been six large scale searches, some of which involved the use of a helicopter. In addition to these large scale searches, there have been other, more localised, searches. The searching continues, and an officer from our Embassy will again shortly visit Medjugorje to review the situation.
Members of An Garda Síochána and of our Defence Forces on EU service in Bosnia and Herzegovina have also participated actively and, I might add, very helpfully in the searches for the missing person.
I can assure the Deputy that, since the person's disappearance, the Consular Division of the Department have provided all possible consular assistance and support. My Department will continue to meet with family members, and I am being kept fully informed of the situation. If it were considered helpful at some stage, I would of course be happy to arrange a personal meeting. However, I understand that in the most recent contact with the person's husband on 31 October, he has stated that he is not seeking a meeting with me. He also expressed warm appreciation for all the assistance he has received from the Department and from the Embassy in Slovenia. I can also confirm that senior officials of the Consular Division recently met with other family members of the person in question.
As already conveyed by Minister of State Lenihan in last evening's adjournment debate, I would wish to confirm that the Department will continue to provide all possible consular assistance and support including, as indicated above, a third visit at an early date by an officer of the Embassy to Medjugorje to review the search operation.
163 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if there are employment opportunities in his Department for people with a physical disability as there is an interest in foreign affairs; and if this is the case, the route to take to avail of these opportunities. [35920/06]
The Department of Foreign Affairs is strongly committed to positive action designed to enhance employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The Public Appointments Service (PAS) is responsible for recruitment across the Civil Service, including the recruitment of people with disabilities. My Department works with other Government Departments, the PAS and the National Disability Authority in the implementation of the provisions of the Disability Act 2005, including those relating to the recruitment and employment of people with disabilities in the Civil Service. This Department also participates in the confined promotion competitions for people with disabilities who are already in the Civil Service, which are organised by the PAS from time to time.
My Department is also a participant in the Willing Able Mentoring (WAM) project, which is administered by AHEAD — the Association of Higher Education Access and Disability — and supported by the Department of Finance. It aims to provide work experience of between three and six months for graduates with disabilities.
While recruitment to the Civil Service is, in the first instance, a matter for the PAS, the Human Resources Section of my Department would be happy to provide advice and guidance to any person with a physical disability who may be interested in pursuing an employment opportunity with the Department of Foreign Affairs.
164 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason a passport did not issue to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35984/06]
An application for an Irish passport was submitted by the person's parents to the Passport Office at Balbriggan on 20 April, 2006. This application was made under the terms of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 2004. Under this Act, persons born in the State after 1 January 2005, where neither parent is an Irish or British citizen or otherwise entitled to reside without restriction in the State or in Northern Ireland, may claim citizenship by birth in the State (and thereby establish eligibility for a passport) only where a parent has been lawfully resident in the State for 3 years of the 4 years preceding their birth.
In the case of applications for passports arising from the terms of the 2004 Act, it is the practice of the Passport Service to seek evidence, in the form of official documentation, of lawful residence in the State by one or both parents. From the evidence provided in support of the application in question, the residency requirement was not met and as such the passport application could not be approved. The Department wrote to the applicant's parents and advised them of this decision on 29 April 2006.
165 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the ongoing demolition of homes in east Jerusalem; if his attention has further been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied); if he will raise the issue with the appropriate Israeli authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35985/06]
I am very aware of the issues raised by the Deputy. The Government has followed the situation, including the case of the person in question, through the Embassy in Tel Aviv and the Representative Office in Ramallah, and in consultation with Palestinian, Israeli and Irish human rights groups and NGOs.
The Government and our EU partners have consistently called on the Israeli Government to end all activities in the Occupied Palestinian Territories which are contrary to international law, including settlement expansion, the destruction of Palestinian homes and the construction of the separation barrier on occupied land. We have raised these issues directly with the Israeli Government, in conjunction with our EU partners, and at the United Nations. We will continue actively to do so.
The practice of house demolitions in East Jerusalem is closely linked to the issues of residency status and the expansion of settlements. The Israeli authorities have placed very severe restrictions on the building of houses by Palestinians in East Jerusalem and have declared illegal any construction work carried out without an official permit. In practice, fewer than 100 building permits are issued to Palestinians each year, following a lengthy and difficult administrative process. Israeli rules which require all Palestinians with Jerusalem residency status to take up residence in the city, or risk losing the status, have obliged significant numbers of people to move back to East Jerusalem from other areas of the West Bank. This has seriously increased the pressure on housing. Many Palestinians have built homes without the permits required by the Israeli authorities because they believe that they have no alternative.
The Government and our EU partners have made it clear to the Israeli Government that it must end the practice of house demolitions in East Jerusalem. It is contrary to international law and, together with other policies and activities in and around East Jerusalem, threatens to undermine the viability of a negotiated two-State solution.
167 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on allowing people who are approaching 65 years of age to renew their passports until their 65th birthday in order that they can benefit from the free passport for senior citizens scheme when they reach 65; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36046/06]
A passport is normally issued for ten years, and the fees to be charged are laid down by a Statutory Instrument. There is no provision in this Statutory Instrument to permit the Passport Office to waive the fee for persons aged less than 65 years. Apart from the legal dimension, the reality also is that, if this generous concessionary scheme is to work satisfactorily, there has to be a fixed starting date for the scheme and fixed qualifications for persons to benefit under it.
However, and unless the passport holder has immediate travel plans, new passports do not, of course, have to be applied for on, or be valid from, the date when the previous passport expired. A person approaching 65 years may well wish, therefore, to wait until they reach that age and then apply for a free passport.
168 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when application forms will be made available under the 2007 sports capital programme in view of the fact that the closing date is within four weeks. [35868/06]
The sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The programme is advertised on an annual basis.
The 2007 round of the sports capital programme was advertised on Sunday 15th and Monday 16th October last and, from the latter date, application forms and the Guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme have been available for release to prospective applicants. The deadline for receipt of applications under the programme is 24th November next.
169 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the numbers of staff in his Department who have indicated willingness to decentralise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35893/06]
My Department, excluding the National Archives, i.e. approximately 130 posts, will be transferring to Killarney under the Government's Decentralisation programme. Nine members of staff working in my Department indicated that they wished to relocate to Killarney. However, overall the number of applications received under the Central Applications Facility (CAF) exceeds the numbers required for most of the grades. Including the nine internal staff, a total of 59 officers who will be relocating to Killarney are now in place in my Department.
As the Deputy is aware, my Department was designated by the Decentralisation Implementation Group as one of the "early mover" Departments. The tender process for the permanent building was completed some months ago and OPW selected the preferred bidder — PJ Hegarty & Sons. Planning permission has been granted. I am advised by OPW that construction of the new building is expected to commence before the end of the year and the anticipated completion date is early 2008.
In the meantime, an advance group of 42 staff relocated to temporary accommodation at Fossa, Killarney in September last. The temporary premises is capable of accommodating up to 70 staff and following a "bedding down" period, consideration will be given to transferring further units of my Department on a phased basis, ultimately leading to the relocation of 130 staff to the permanent accommodation in early 2008.
170 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of persons currently employed in his Department whose status has changed to that of disabled since the commencement of their employment with his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35894/06]
The Deputy will be aware that the definition of a person with a disability for the purposes of the 3% target is the positive action definition set out in the Code of Practice for the Civil Service, 1994.
According to my Department's records, there are no persons currently employed in my Department whose status has changed to that of disabled since the commencement of their employment with my Department.
171 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the employment schemes for people with a physical disability particularly for those who live in the northside of Dublin. [35919/06]
FÁS provides a range of services on a nationwide basis to help disabled people find paid employment. Persons with a disability who need assistance in finding employment, or who wish to prepare for employment by undertaking a vocational training programme, or who want to participate in an employment programme, should contact their local FÁS Employment Services Office and register. This is the access point to all FÁS training and employment programmes for job-seekers.
A listing of all Employment Services Offices is available through the FÁS website www.fas.ie/servicestojobseekers/index.html.
FÁS also provides a range of Schemes and Grants to assist disabled people and/or employers interested in hiring a disabled person. These are as follows:
Job Interview Interpreter Grant
This grant is intended for job seekers with a significant hearing or speech impairment who are attending job interviews. The job seeker can apply for funding to have an interpreter attend the interview with them. A grant of €106.68 for a three hour period is normally paid by FÁS, together with travel costs for the interpreter.
Workplace Equipment Adaptation Grant
This grant is available to employers in the private sector who need to adapt equipment or the workplace to accommodate a disabled employee. The maximum FÁS grant is €6,350, which covers minor building modifications such as ramps or accessible toilets; alarm systems, assistive equipment for computers, amplifiers for telephones, etc.
Supported Employment Programme
The Supported Employment Programme provides supports to disabled people, who traditionally have had difficulty getting into paid employment. The programme is carried out by sponsor organisations on behalf of FÁS. The sponsor organisations employ Job Coaches who provide a range of supports tailored to the individual needs of the jobseeker with a disability that may include:
helping the job seeker to identify his/her skills and interests;
assisting the job seeker to find a suitable job;
analysing the tasks involved in the job and using this to plan the supports to be provided;
providing on-the-job training and support when the person commences employment;
providing on-going support to employee and employer for an agreed time period.
Since January 2005, the current FÁS Supported Employment Sponsor on the Northside of Dublin is: Work 4 You Ltd, Unit 1-3 Ballymun Enterprise Centre, Ballymun Industrial Estate, Dublin 11.
FÁS Wage Subsidy Scheme (WSS)
The FÁS Wage Subsidy Scheme provides financial incentives to employers, outside the public sector, to employ disabled people who work more than 20 hours per week up to a maximum of 39 hours. A person availing of the Wage Subsidy Scheme is subject to the same conditions of employment as other employees, including PRSI contributions, annual leave, tax deductions, and the employer pays the going rate for the job, as per any other employee. Employees hired under this Scheme may also qualify for the Department of Social and Family Affairs Back to Work Allowance. The subsidies are structured under three separate strands and employers can benefit under one or all, simultaneously.
Further details of these, and other supports, may be obtained through the FÁS website (www.fas.ie) under ‘Disability’.
Community Employment Programme
The Community Employment programme is operated by FÁS to provide work experience and training for disadvantaged persons, and is available to those with a disability. Participation rates for people with disabilities on the programme will be progressively increased under the Sectoral Plan for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment under the Disability Act, 2005. Information on access to the programme is available from any of the above mentioned Employment Services Offices.
172 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the situation regarding the liquidation of a company (details supplied); and when all final amounts will be paid to staff in respect of their entitlement and contributions to their pension fund. [35983/06]
The liquidation of IFI is still ongoing. However, I understand that the liquidator has made considerable progress in realising the assets of the company and establishing the full extent of its liabilities. At this stage, the assets of the company have all been realised.
It is understood that all claims from secured and preferential creditors have been paid at this stage, while a second interim payment was made to unsecured creditors in May bringing the total payments to unsecured creditors up to 37.5% of their claims. A small number of claims remain to be determined and the prospects for any further dividends will depend on the outcome of these remaining issues.
I should, of course, stress that the determination of any payments due to creditors of IFI is a matter solely for the liquidator while any pension payments due are a matter for the trustees of the relevant pension funds.
173 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a private company (details supplied) under the wing of FÁS, is refusing to honour a Labour Court recommendation founded on the Transfer of Undertakings Act obliging companies who take over contracts to honour existing working conditions; and if he will take steps to ensure that all State agencies operate within employment law. [36073/06]
I have asked FÁS to let me know the position in relation to this issue. FÁS is looking into the matter and when I have its response I will communicate directly to the Deputy in writing.
174 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to address the use of the phrase rent allowance not accepted in accommodation advertisements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35967/06]
176 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to address the use of the phrase rent allowance not accepted in accommodation advertisements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35989/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 174 and 176 together.
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive. The purpose of the scheme is to provide short-term income support, in the form of a weekly or monthly payment, to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.
Under the rent supplement scheme there is no direct relationship between the State and the landlord. Entitlement is based on the tenant's income support needs with payment generally made directly to the tenant. The tenant's engagement with the Executive usually takes place after the tenant has reached an agreement with the landlord. As such it is not possible to identify if refusal by landlords to accept rent supplement tenants is causing difficulties for those trying to find accommodation.
It is the case however, that significant numbers of new tenancies commence each year with the support of rent supplement. For example, just under 35,000 new cases have been awarded so far this year.
I am aware that some landlords are advertising their property on the internet or in the newspapers and state that they are unwilling to accept rent supplement recipients as tenants.
I am concerned that landlords would refuse a tenancy purely because someone is on a social welfare payment. I have asked my Department to investigate the extent of this practice and to examine if it constitutes possible discrimination. The fact that there are currently over 60,000 rent supplement recipients, an increase of around 15,000 recipients since 2001, does indicate that there are significant numbers of landlords who are willing to accept people in receipt of rent supplement as tenants. Also the fact that almost 35,000 new rent supplement claims were awarded between January 2006 and October 2006 appears to indicate that overall access to accommodation is not proving restrictive for those in need of assistance under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.
175 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on the anomaly whereby farmers may make voluntary contributions towards contributory pensions at age 65 from age 55 onwards, whereas the farmer’s wife is precluded from so doing; if he will take steps to eliminate this discrimination against farmer’s wives and lack of recognition of wives contribution to farm management; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35905/06]
Spouses of an employed or self-employed contributor are specifically excepted from social insurance contributions. This exclusion recognises the practical difficulties in establishing the nature of a genuine employment relationship in circumstances such as when a person employed under a contract of service (i.e. as an employee) by his or her spouse is classed as an "excepted" contributor under social welfare law. As a result, farming spouses, in common with spouses of other self-employed persons, can only pay PRSI contributions in one of three scenarios.
Firstly, spouses who are actively engaged in a commercial partnership (as opposed to simply being the joint owners of a property) are treated as individual self-employed contributors and are thus liable to social insurance contributions. These contributions — made under PRSI Class S — enable them to build up an insurance record in their own right and to receive accruing benefits. Liability for PRSI contributions is not contingent on the ownership of property but rather on the nature of the business arrangements between the couple. Co-ownership of property does not in itself create a partnership.
Secondly, where a family business or farming enterprise is incorporated as a limited company, spouses involved in the business can establish a social insurance record as either employees or as self-employed contributors — depending on whether a contract of service exists.
Finally, if the spouse is engaged in "off-farm" employment, they will pay social insurance contributions in their own right. This enables farming spouses who might otherwise not be insured to develop a social insurance record on the basis of their "off-farm" earnings.
I would also point out that the exception of spouses from PRSI liability in relation to a shared occupation does not preclude them from accessing the voluntary contributions scheme. Access to this scheme requires a minimum number of 260 paid contributions. Where a person has been previously insured as an employee or as a self-employed person, is no longer compulsory insured and is under 66 years of age, he or she can opt to pay voluntary social insurance contributions. These contributions will maintain social insurance cover for pensions such as Retirement, State (Contributory) and Widow's or Widowers' (Contributory) as well as for the Guardian's Payment (Contributory) and the Bereavement Grant — depending on the rate at which the voluntary contribution has been paid. Voluntary contributions maintain the pension coverage at the level equivalent to that when the person was last compulsorily insured. The amount to be paid as a voluntary contribution is at a percentage of annual income. For those who were previously self-employed, the voluntary contribution is paid at a fixed amount of £253 per annum.
The legislation that exempts spouses who assist in family enterprises — such as farming — from liability to social insurance has been the subject of review on a number of occasions.
In 2005, the ‘Fully-Inclusive Social Insurance Model' (FISIM) group, established under the social partnership agreement, and which included representatives from various local and national farming organisations, considered how the social insurance framework in Ireland should develop to become more inclusive. The report of the group acknowledged the significance of the partnership option and recommended that more information on the tax and social welfare implications of families working in either a partnership or limited company be made available. This recommendation is currently being progressed.
I consider that the current arrangements are not discriminatory and represent a reasonable response to the social security requirements of spouses and assisting relatives. There are no immediate plans to alter the arrangements outlined above.
177 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is in receipt of the maximum amount of rent supplement applicable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36002/06]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive.
Under standard SWA rules rent supplements are normally calculated to ensure that a person, after the payment of rent, has an income equal to the rate of SWA appropriate to their family circumstances less a minimum contribution, currently €13, which recipients are required to pay from their own resources. Many recipients pay more than €13 because they are also required, subject to income disregards, to contribute any additional assessable means that they have, over and above the appropriate basic SWA rate, towards their accommodation costs. The Executive has been contacted regarding this case and has advised that the person concerned is in receipt of the maximum amount of rent supplement payable appropriate to her current income and family composition.
178 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the steps being taken to address the perceived anomaly between his Department and the Revenue Commissioners Office, whereby cohabiting couples can be classed as a couple by one and not by the other; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36023/06]
The primary purpose of the Irish social welfare system is to provide income support for people who, for whatever reason, experience a loss of income or whose existing income is regarded as insufficient.
The Social Welfare Consolidation Act, 2005 defines "couple" as meaning "a married couple who are living together or a man and woman who are not married to each other but are cohabiting as husband and wife." This definition applies both to the statutory schemes, such as the weekly social welfare payments, and to the non-statutory schemes such as the Free Travel, Free Electricity and Telephone Rental Allowance.
The social welfare and tax systems have evolved over time and in response to a variety of factors, including Constitutional imperatives as interpreted by the Courts, changing social trends and EU Directives. The two codes have developed independently and are governed by different legislation. Changes in one system are not necessarily influenced by changes in the other and the differences in the social welfare and tax codes in their treatment of different types of households reflect this. Any change in relation to the tax code would be a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Finance.
179 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on allowing sole traders who employ their spouses to pay social insurance contributions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36026/06]
Family members who work together are generally not insurable under the Social Welfare Acts. Spouses of employed or self-employed contributors are specifically excepted from PRSI liability in respect of their working activity with their spouse. However, there is scope within the provisions of social welfare legislation to enable spouses who are partners in an enterprise, or who work together in a legally incorporated business, to be insurable and to accrue entitlement to certain benefits and pensions.
At the heart of the issue lies the fact that current social welfare provisions recognise that family members regularly support each other without having any intention of entering into formal contractual arrangements. Employment under a contract of service as an employee or as a contract for services as a self-employed person is, by its very nature and necessity, a formal agreement between two or more parties. All contracts bring with them rights and responsibilities that, in this instance, include compliance legislation relating to PRSI, taxes and employment rights. Evidence of a commercial partnership between spouses or the incorporation of a family business as a limited company will establish liability for Class S contributions — providing that income is above the annual threshold of €3,174. These provisions apply to couples engaged in retailing and other self-employed activities.
I would point out that the exception of spouses from PRSI liability in relation to a shared occupation does not preclude them from accessing the voluntary contributions scheme. Access to this scheme requires a minimum number of 260 paid contributions. Where a person has been previously insured as an employee or as a self-employed person, is no longer compulsory insured and is under 66 years of age, he or she can opt to pay voluntary social insurance contributions. These contributions will maintain social insurance cover for pensions such as Retirement, State (Contributory) and Widow's or Widowers' (Contributory) as well as for the Guardian's Payment (Contributory) and the Bereavement Grant — depending on the rate at which the voluntary contribution has been paid. Voluntary contributions maintain the pension coverage at the level equivalent to that when the person was last compulsorily insured. The amount to be paid as a voluntary contribution is at a percentage of annual income. For those who were previously self-employed, the voluntary contribution is paid at a fixed amount of €253 per annum.
I am satisfied that, under the existing social welfare provisions, where formal employment or partnership relationships are intended between spouses or assisting relatives, the legislation provides the scope necessary to allow parties to enter into arrangements that will enable them to gain access to social insurance coverage.
180 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of people who have had their payments of child benefit cut off as a result of trying to contact them regarding the new early child supplement payments; the number of people who subsequently had their payments reinstated; the net number of people who had payments terminated based on this process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36049/06]
In April 2006, as part of the introduction of the early childcare supplement (ECS) scheme, a letter issued to qualifying customers i.e. those in receipt of child benefit for children under the age of 6 years, informing them of the new payment including the method and frequency of payment and the approximate date of the first payment. In August, a further letter issued confirming the date of the first payment and payment dates for the remainder of 2006 and 2007. Approximately 265,000 letters issued on both occasions.
Approximately 6,000 letters were returned undelivered from the April mailing, and 3,000 from the August mailing. Of these 9,000 cases, new addresses have been established in respect of 6,300 customers. Payment of Child Benefit is currently suspended for the remaining 2,700 customers. Work is continuing to establish the whereabouts of these customers; if it is confirmed that they are no longer resident in the country, their claims will be terminated and overpayments assessed where appropriate.
My Department has put in place measures to ensure that customers in receipt of both Child Benefit and Early Childcare Allowance are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure they continue to fulfil the qualifying conditions for the receipt of the payments. These measures will include mailshots to confirm the children's residency in Ireland and confirm insurable employment of a parent in cases paid under EU regulations. In addition, home visits by investigation staff will be used to verify and validate information given.
181 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs further to a previous parliamentary question, the details of the additional income threshold for the fuel allowance for each year respectively from 1995 to date in 2006 inclusive; the amount of any increases in any of those years and subsequent new additional income threshold as a result of the increase; the date when an additional increase was granted; when these increases came into effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36058/06]
Entitlement to fuel allowance is subject to a means test. People who are in receipt of relevant non-contributory payments automatically satisfy the fuel allowance means test and do not have to undergo a further means test to qualify for fuel allowance. The majority of people who receive fuel allowances qualify because they satisfy the relevant means test for their primary weekly payment.
In 2006, in the case of contributory pensions which are not means tested, a person may have a combined household income of up to €51 per week over and above the maximum rate of state pension (contributory), or savings/investments of up to €46,000, and still qualify for fuel allowance. This additional income amount was increased to €51 per week with effect from 1 June 2005. Prior to that, it was €38.10 per week from September 1999 and €19.05 from September 1996, having previously been set at €12.70 per week.
These increases were announced in the Budget immediately prior to their introduction in all cases. The overall fuel allowance income limits increase each season in line with the increases in the rate of the State pension (contributory). Actual income from investments and money in savings accounts is not counted for means assessment purposes. Instead all cash values of investments and property, all money in savings accounts and cash-in-hand are added together and this capital is assessed as follows: the first €20,000 of capital is disregarded; capital between €20,000 and €30,000 is assessed on the basis of €1 weekly means for each €1,000 of capital; capital between €30,000 and €40,000 is assessed on the basis of €2 weekly means for each €1,000 of capital; and capital above €40,000 is assessed on the basis of €4 weekly means for each €1,000 of capita. Income limits on secondary sources of income in order to qualify for fuel allowance from 1995 are set out in column B in the following tabular statement. The overall income limit is also set out in the statement.
|
Year |
OACP* rate |
Means Limit |
Adult Dependant Allce. Under 66 |
Adult Dependant Allce. Over 66 |
Single Person |
Couple where Qualified Adult is Under 66 |
Couple where Qualified Adult is Over 66 |
|
(A) |
(B) |
(C) |
(D) |
(A+B) |
(A+B+C) |
(A+B+D) |
|
|
1995 |
92.44 |
12.70 |
61.07 |
66.41 |
105.14 |
166.21 |
171.55 |
|
1996 |
95.23 |
19.05 |
62.85 |
68.44 |
114.28 |
177.13 |
182.72 |
|
1997 |
99.04 |
19.05 |
64.76 |
70.34 |
118.09 |
182.85 |
188.43 |
|
1998 |
105.39 |
19.05 |
66.66 |
72.25 |
124.44 |
191.10 |
196.69 |
|
1999 |
113.00 |
38.10 |
70.98 |
76.06 |
151.10 |
222.08 |
227.16 |
|
2000 |
121.89 |
38.10 |
76.44 |
82.03 |
159.99 |
236.43 |
242.02 |
|
2001 |
134.59 |
50.79 |
86.60 |
101.07 |
185.38 |
271.98 |
286.45 |
|
2002 |
147.30 |
50.79 |
98.10 |
113.80 |
198.09 |
296.19 |
311.89 |
|
2003 |
157.30 |
50.79 |
104.80 |
121.50 |
208.09 |
312.89 |
329.59 |
|
2004 |
167.30 |
50.79 |
111.50 |
129.20 |
218.09 |
329.59 |
347.29 |
|
2005 |
179.30 |
51.00 |
119.50 |
138.50 |
230.30 |
349.80 |
368.80 |
|
2006 |
193.30 |
51.00 |
128.80 |
149.30 |
244.30 |
373.10 |
393.60 |
Old Age Contributory Pension now called the State Pension Contributory.
182 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Transport if he will prioritise the immediate opening up of the Dublin Bus market to the private sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36005/06]
In line with its commitments in the Programme for Government, the Government has made a number of significant decisions recently that will provide a solid basis for expanded and improved bus services throughout the country over the coming years, while ensuring better value for money for both passengers and taxpayers.
The Government has decided that the regulation of the bus market and future decisions on the allocation of all public subsidies for bus services in the Greater Dublin Area will be taken by the new Dublin Transport Authority, which is being established under legislation, now at an advanced stage of preparation. The DTA will have responsibility for contracting with all operators in the Dublin market, including Dublin Bus. It will also be responsible for monitoring the quality and cost of service by all operators and ensuring value for money on all routes.
Under the Government's Transport Investment Programme — Transport 21 — it is anticipated that there will be a requirement in the GDA for an expansion of the number of buses providing scheduled services. This will require an increase in the total number of buses to around 1,800, with a requirement for at least 200 extra buses over the next two years. The Government has decided to meet this initial requirement by providing up to €30 million immediately to enable Dublin Bus to buy 100 additional buses for delivery over the period 2006-07 and mandating the DTA to procure the additional 100 buses from the private sector to provide services on new routes.
The 100 buses procured from the private sector forms part of an initiative to facilitate the entry of new, private operators by awarding franchises to operate routes accounting for 15% (approx 200 buses) exclusively to such operators by way of competitive tendering. Following this period, all new routes will be subject to a competitive tendering process open to all operators. The precise arrangements will be approved by Government on the basis of proposals from the DTA. This approach will encourage new investment and innovation in the Dublin bus passenger market.
In the interests of stability and integration of the bus network, the legislation establishing the DTA will allow the DTA to enter into a direct contract with Dublin Bus, in accordance with EU law, on the basis of it continuing to operate without a diminution in the size of their current bus fleet.
It is proposed that all subvention payments in the GDA, both to Dublin Bus and to new operators, will be made by the DTA on an objective, transparent and even handed basis so as to maximise value for public money. The integrated nature of the Dublin bus market will be underpinned through the DTA having responsibility for traffic management strategy, which will prioritise public transport, and for integrated ticketing, fares and information systems. The DTA will also be empowered to organise the allocation of routes to operators in such a way as to maximise their prospect of efficient operation and the coherent development of the bus network.
In addition to the legislation to establish the DTA, new legislation is being prepared to replace the licensing regime under the Road Transport Act, 1932 by a modern regulatory and licensing regime in line with commitments in the Programme for Government. This will be designed in a manner consistent with EU law on public service obligations and State aids and in such a way as to create new opportunities and a level playing field for private operator involvement in the bus market. I would hope to be in a position to publish legislative proposals later this year.
I am confident that the combination of immediate investment in new bus capacity and structural reform to introduce competition and enhance incentives for efficiency, represent a balanced strategy to benefit bus passengers and taxpayers alike. It follows extensive consultation with interested parties, including with key stakeholders such as the CIE companies and Unions, and study of mechanisms used internationally to achieve efficiency and effectiveness in bus markets. The Government's strategy will deliver immediate benefits and secure steady and continuing progress into the future.
183 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if he will elaborate on his plans for the provision of 200 extra buses for the Dublin area; when the 100 extra buses will come on stream both in the public sector and in the private sector; and if the State will pay for the 100 buses destined for the private sector. [36007/06]
In line with the Programme for Government commitments, the Government has made a number of significant decisions recently that will provide a solid basis for expanded and improved bus services throughout the country over the coming years, while ensuring better value for money for both passengers and taxpayers. I am committed to the introduction of a modernised regulatory framework for public transport and will continue to advance this regulatory reform agenda.
The Government has decided that the regulation of the bus market and future decisions on the allocation of all public subsidies for bus services in the Greater Dublin Area will be taken by the new Dublin Transport Authority, which is being established under legislation, now at an advanced stage of preparation. The DTA will have responsibility for contracting with all operators in the Dublin market, including Dublin Bus. It will also be responsible for monitoring the quality and cost of service by all operators and ensuring value for money on all routes.
Under the Government's Transport Investment Programme — Transport 21 — it is anticipated that there will be a requirement in the GDA for an expansion of the number of buses providing scheduled services. This will require an increase in the total number of buses to around 1,800, with a requirement for at least 200 extra buses over the next two years. The Government has decided to meet this initial requirement by providing up to €30 million immediately to enable Dublin Bus to buy 100 additional buses. I understand from Dublin Bus that these buses will begin to enter into service by the end of the year and that the delivery of them will be completed by the end of January 2007. Their deployment is a matter for the company.
There are also 100 buses to be procured from the private sector by the Dublin Transport Authority to provide services on new routes. This is to be done by way of competitive tendering. This forms part of an initiative to facilitate the entry of private operators, by awarding franchises to operate routes accounting for 15% (approx 200 buses). The identification of routes for these buses and the award of franchises will be a matter for the DTA. Following this period, all new routes will be subject to a competitive tendering process open to all operators. The precise arrangements will be approved by Government on the basis of proposals from the DTA. This approach will encourage new investment and innovation in the Dublin bus passenger market.
In the interests of stability and integration of the bus network, the legislation establishing the DTA will allow the DTA to enter into a direct contract with Dublin Bus, in accordance with EU law, on the basis of it continuing to operate without a diminution in the size of their current bus fleet.
It is proposed that all subvention payments in the GDA, both to Dublin Bus and to new operators, will be made by the DTA on an objective, transparent and even handed basis so as to maximise value for public money. The integrated nature of the Dublin bus market will be underpinned through the DTA having responsibility for traffic management strategy, which will prioritise public transport, and for integrated ticketing, fares and information systems. The DTA will also be empowered to organise the allocation of routes to operators in such a way as to maximise their prospect of efficient operation and the coherent development of the bus network.
The Government is also investing up to €50 million for Bus Éireann for the delivery of up to 160 buses in the period commencing in 2007 for non-commercial services outside Dublin.
New legislation is being prepared to replace the bus licensing regime under the Road Transport Act 1932 by a modern regulatory and licensing regime in line with commitments in the Programme for Government. This will be designed in a manner consistent with EU law on public service obligations and State aids and in such a way as to create new opportunities and a level playing field for private operator involvement in the bus market. I would hope to be in a position to publish legislative proposals later this year.
I am confident that the combination of immediate investment in new bus capacity and structural reform to introduce competition and enhance incentives for efficiency, represent a balanced strategy to benefit bus passengers and taxpayers alike. It follows extensive consultation with interested parties, including with key stakeholders such as the CIE companies and Unions, and study of mechanisms used internationally to achieve efficiency and effectiveness in bus markets. The Government's strategy will deliver immediate benefits and secure steady and continuing progress into the future.
184 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the progress that has been made with Transport 21; the committees, groups and so on that are in place associated with Transport 21; their work and issues raised to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35886/06]
Significant progress has been made on Transport 21 since its launch on 1 November 2005. The following are the details of progress in the specific sectors covered by Transport 21.
Luas/Metro: I approved a Railway Order for Cherrywood Luas extension on 14 August 2006. However, in early October a third party sought leave in the High Court to challenge the grant of this Order, by way of judicial review. This matter is now before the courts.
The Public Inquiry for the Docklands extension has been completed, the inspector's report has been submitted and I will decide on the Railway Order application shortly. Public consultation on the further extension of the Luas from Cherrywood to Bray was launched on 14 August 2006. An application from the Railway Procurement Agency for a Railway Order for the Citywest Luas extension is expected in the coming weeks. The RPA is undertaking public consultation on the City Centre line linking the two existing Luas lines. I recently announced the route alignment for Metro North and detailed planning work is now taking place. The RPA will commence public consultation on the route options for Metro West before the end of this year.
Suburban Rail: I have approved, and will shortly sign, the Railway Order for the Kildare Route. Construction work is expected to commence in 2007. Construction of the Docklands Railway Station is well advanced and scheduled to open in Spring 2007. The Public Inquiry for the Midleton rail line is underway since 31 October. Work on the traincare depot in Portlaoise will commence shortly.
Irish Rail will, by end 2006, introduce into service 67 new rail carriages for use on the Dublin-Cork route and will increase the level of service on the route by providing hourly clockface services from December. I have approved funding for the first 2 phases of the Western Rail Corridor from Ennis to Athenry and from Athenry to Tuam subject, in the case of the latter, to the completion by Iarnród Éireann of a fuller appraisal. Clearing work has commenced on Phase 1.
Buses: Funding has been approved for 100 additional buses for Dublin Bus and for 160 buses for Bus Éireann for use on non-commercial routes.
National Roads: The NRA has completed and opened to traffic 13 projects and has commenced 10 new projects in 2006 as follows.
|
Route |
Scheme |
|
N55 |
Cavan Town Bypass |
|
N30 |
Enniscorthy/ Clonroche |
|
N15 |
Bundoran/Ballyshannon Bypass |
|
N2 |
Ashbourne Bypass |
|
N4 |
Edgeworthstown Relief Road |
|
N8/73 |
Mitchelstown Relief Road |
|
N52 |
Mullingar Bypass |
|
N7 |
Naas Road Widening |
|
N21 |
Castleisland/Abbeyfeale |
|
N2 |
Monaghan Town Bypass |
|
N8 |
Rathcormac-Fermoy Bypass |
|
N25/N27 |
Kinsale Road Interchange |
|
M1 |
Drynam Interchange |
|
Route |
Scheme |
|
N4 |
Longford/Drumsna (Dromod/Roosky Bypass) |
|
N5 |
Charlestown Bypass |
|
N6 |
Kinnegad/Athlone Phase 2 |
|
N7 |
Limerick Southern Ring Road Phase 2 |
|
N8 |
Cullahill/Cashel |
|
N8 |
Cashel/Mitchelstown |
|
N9 |
Kilcullen/Waterford Nthrn Section Phase 1 (Carlow Bypass) |
|
N11 |
Junction Improvements (Kilpeddar/Delgany) |
|
N11 |
Enniskerry Junction Improvements |
|
N25 |
Waterford City Bypass |
A dedicated Division has been established within my Department to oversee the implementation of all aspects of Transport 21.
I have also established a high-level Monitoring Group, comprising representatives of relevant Government Departments and assisted by the Chief Executives of the State agencies with responsibility for implementing the projects in Transport 21. The main role of this Group is to monitor the implementation of projects provided for in Transport 21. It also reviews compliance with the Department of Finance's Capital Appraisal Guidelines and Value for Money Indicators.
A Programme Board comprising senior managers from my Department is responsible for the overall management of the Transport 21 capital envelope and for issues which are cross-sectoral in nature such as capital appraisal, communications and information.
A communications subgroup of the Transport 21 Monitoring Group, comprising the press officers of each of the implementing agencies and Departmental staff, has also been set up. The Group meets frequently to discuss all issues arising in connection with the promotion of Transport 21 and to co-ordinate the communications activities of the agencies.
185 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the issues of concern that have been brought to his Department’s attention in relation to safety with regard to his Department’s policy on the design and use of cycle lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35887/06]
Cycling is an important part of this Government's commitment under Transport 21 to increasing modal share of public transport through infrastructure and service improvements and to encourage a transfer of trips from the private car to more sustainable modes of transport.
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 to the local authorities for the development of such facilities.
Approximately €30 million has been provided by my Department to the Dublin Transportation Office for the provision of cycling facilities in the Greater Dublin Area since 1994. €1 million was provided in 2005 and €2.2 million in 2006. The investment of bus priority funding and cycling-only spending has resulted in some 300kms of cycle facilities being provided, as well as cycle parking facilities throughout the GDA.
Safety is a key issue in cycling. Dublin continues to have more than half of all daily cyclists in Ireland — the accident rate in Dublin is substantially less than for the rest of the country. Nevertheless, continued efforts need to be made to improve safety and take the opportunity further to improve the standard of new cycle facilities.
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/publicdown.htm.
The current cycle design guidelines are very demanding, especially in terms of the requirements for cyclists, and providing an appropriate environment for cycling. In particular, the current guidelines demand that cyclists be protected from general traffic in situations of high vehicular speeds, high vehicular volumes or both. This requires a significant permanent dedication of space to cyclists, in a situation where demand for space is at a premium. This manual is in the process of being updated, with a view to enhancing safety. It is expected to be published towards the end of this year.
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 the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The Dublin Transportation Office recently adopted a Cycle Policy for the Greater Dublin Area (GDA). The policy proposes to enhance the cycling environment in the GDA and promote safe cycling by a variety of means, including creating a continuous cycle-friendly environment on cycle routes and training and education measures.
Outside Dublin, the framework for the promotion of cycling in the regional cities is set out in the relevant local 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.
187 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the number of deaths relating to road traffic accidents each month from January to October 2006 and the comparison figures for January to October 2003; the accident investigators audits on such accidents; the level of research carried out by his Department on road traffic accidents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35889/06]
189 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Transport the percentages of fatal accidents occurring between the hours of 9 p.m. on Fridays and 6 a.m. on Saturdays, between 9 p.m. on Saturdays and 6 a.m. on Sundays and between 9 p.m. on Sundays and 6 a.m. on Mondays; the overall percentage of fatal accidents between 9 a.m. on Fridays and 6 a.m. on Mondays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35906/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 187 and 189 together.
Responsibility for the collection of structured information on road safety now lies with the Road Safety Authority, who would be happy to provide the Deputies with the information requested.
188 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the success and progress of his Department’s policy with regard to transport for all, especially to ensure easy access for people with a disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35890/06]
My Department has finalised a Sectorial Plan on Accessible Transport in accordance with the provisions of the Disability Act 2005. The Plan titled ‘Transport Access for All' addresses the accessibility needs of people with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairments across all transport modes and contains time bound targets for the progressive realisation of accessible transport in Ireland. It has been prepared following an extensive consultation exercise involving meetings and discussions with transport providers together with a wide range of groups in the disability sector.
The Plan, along with the sectorial plans of five other Departments, was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas on 20 July 2006 as required by the Disability Act 2005 and was formally launched by the Government on 21 July 2006. All six sectorial plans have now been approved by both Houses of the Oireachtas enabling them to take effect.
A number of measures to achieve the implementation of ‘Transport Access for All' have already been put in place, including the provision of funding under Transport 21 and the extension of the remit of the Public Transport Accessibility Committee (PTAC) to incorporate a monitoring role. In addition, a Maritime Forum to oversee the implementation and review of the Maritime Passenger Section of the Plan is currently being formed.
All new buses purchased by the CIE companies for urban services are now low floor and wheelchair accessible. Similarly in the rail sector all new rail rolling stock is specified to full accessibility standards. Good progress has been made by Iarnród Éireann and Bus Éireann in upgrading their respective stations to cater for the needs of people with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairments. This work is continuing. Also, Luas has been designed from the outset to be a fully accessible system and the Commission for Taxi Regulation is proposing measures to aidpeople with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairments.
Each of the CIE operating companies, the Dublin Airport Authority and the Railway Procurement Agency / Veolia Transport have established disability users groups to advise them on accessibility matters at the company level.
My Department's Sectorial Plan contains a number of provisions to facilitate the monitoring of progress on its implementation. These include the incorporation of progress reports in the Department's annual reports as well as participation in interdepartmental co-ordinating and monitoring structures for the National Disability Strategy. In addition, each agency under the aegis of my Department that is required by statute to prepare and/or publish an annual report, will be requested to provide in their annual reports a progress report on the implementation of the relevant sections of the Sectorial Plan.
190 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport the number of closed circuit television cameras on public transport buses here; and the number in operation. [35907/06]
I have no function in relation to this matter. It is an operational matter for Bus Átha Cliath.
191 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Transport if he will clarify the situation in relation to the wearing of helmets by cyclists; if same is compulsory or voluntary; if he will make it legally binding for children, in the interests of safety and in the interests of stopping bullying and name calling, which is currently directed at children who use helmets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35964/06]
It is long-standing Government policy to recommend and promote the wearing of cycle helmets by all cyclists and it has been the view that this is best achieved by way of encouragement and education rather than by pursuing a punitive approach to the issue particularly having regard to the large numbers of children and young people who cycle.
As a consequence of the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) responsibility for matters relating to vehicle standards, including bicycles, is now assigned to the Road Safety Authority.
192 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Transport the steps being taken by Bus Éireann to provide low floor wheelchair accessible buses for its fleet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35979/06]
Significant progress has been made in recent years in the introduction of wheelchair accessible buses to the Bus Éireann fleet. Since the year 2000, all buses purchased by the company for urban services are low floor, wheelchair accessible. That purchasing policy will continue as the bus fleet is replaced and expanded over time. I recently announced that Exchequer funding of up to €50 million would be provided for up to 160 new buses for Bus Éireann in the period commencing 2007 for non-commercial services outside of Dublin, all of which will be wheelchair accessible.
Bus Éireann has already achieved almost 100% fleet conversion to low floor, wheelchair accessible buses on its urban services in the cities of Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford. The company also has a number of low floor, wheelchair accessible buses operating on a number of rural routes and on some commuter routes that were previously served by coaches.
In other urban areas currently served with smaller buses that are not wheelchair accessible, Bus Éireann's policy is to replace those vehicles with wheelchair accessible buses.
While there has been significant progress in the development and provision of accessible buses for city services, the production of wheelchair accessible coaches is at an early stage across Europe and coaches of this type are not readily available. My Department's Sectorial Plan under the Disability Act 2005 addresses the question of accessible long-distance coaches in the light of the COST 349 Report. The Report, based on a major 4-year European research project, made recommendations in October 2005 in respect of accessibility matters for coach-type vehicles. A number of manufacturers are now beginning to put the recommendations into effect on their vehicles.
Bus Éireann has undertaken to acquire a number of these vehicles for operational trials in Ireland.
193 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if he has considered the introduction of laws, similar to those that pertain in the USA, which requires motor cars to stop when a school bus stops; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35986/06]
I understand that the Department of Education and Science, in conjunction with Bus Éireann, initiated a School Bus Flashing Lights pilot scheme in Ennis in January 2005 and proposed the extension of the pilot initiative to other areas.
Consideration of the creation of a road traffic requirement of the kind suggested by the Deputy will be informed by the outcome and evaluation of these pilot measures.
194 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport his views on replacing the level crossings at Coolmine and Clonsilla with either a bridge or tunnels to facilitate movement of road traffic in view of plans to increase the frequency of trains on the Maynooth line, and the addition of services to and from Dunboyne and eventually Navan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36032/06]
The management of road traffic at level crossings is a matter for the relevant local authorities in conjunction with Iarnród Éireann. The upgrading of railway infrastructure and associated roads is also a matter in the first instance for Iarnród Éireann and local authorities and, in the case of national roads, the NRA.
I understand that the upgrading of level crossings on the Maynooth line will, inter alia, be considered in the context of plans under Transport 21 for the development of the line which will also include resignalling and electrification of the route. The current position on this project is that a feasibility study is currently underway and is expected to be completed in 2007 with a view to commencing the Maynooth line upgrade programme of works in 2008.
195 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied that there is sufficient funding in place to enable the Cork to Midleton rail line to be constructed and completed; the estimated cost of the project; the amount of funding his Department has and will be contributing towards the cost of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36060/06]
Provision for the capital costs of the Cork Commuter Services Project, including for the development of the Glounthane to Midleton railway line, was incorporated into the multi-annual estimates for Transport 21 when it was announced last November. This provision was made on the basis of costings prepared by consultants on behalf of Iarnród Éireann as part of the cost-benefit analysis for the project and allowing also for contributions to the project to be leveraged from a scheme under Section 49 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 which is being implemented by Cork County Council.
Since the announcement of Transport 21, Iarnród Éireann has completed detailed designs for the project allowing the Company to submit an application for a Railway Order and to prepare tender documents. On this basis, the business case, including the anticipated costs of the project, have been updated in accordance with the Department of Finance's Guidelines for the Appraisal of Capital Expenditure. I can confirm that the funding provision within Transport 21 continues to be sufficient for the completion of the project.
I do not propose to release the estimated cost of the project as this remains commercially sensitive information until the public procurement process for this project is completed.
196 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which all public transport has wheelchair access; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36062/06]
Significant progress has been made in recent years in improving wheelchair access to public transport and work in this regard is continuing apace.
All of the regular urban bus fleets operated by Bus Éireann in Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford are low-floor wheelchair accessible. In addition, the company operates some low-floor wheelchair accessible buses on a number of rural routes and on some commuter routes in the Greater Dublin Area. Bus Éireann is also continuing a major bus station refurbishment programme to make them all accessible.
All new buses purchased by Bus Átha Cliath are low-floor and wheelchair accessible. Currently almost 60% of the Bus Átha Cliath fleet is accessible and in excess of 60 routes are now served by such buses. A bus stop accessibility upgrade programme is ongoing to complement the operation of the low floor buses.
Similarly in the rail sector all new rail rolling stock are specified to full accessibility standards. Suburban rail services are now accessible over most of the network for people with mobility impairments and it is envisaged that most Inter-City train services will be accessible within a short number of years as the accessible rolling stock currently on order comes into service. In addition, a railway station accessibility improvement programme is underway based on the findings of the accessibility audit of all railway stations commissioned by Iarnród Éireann in 2003.
Luas has been designed from the outset to be a fully accessible system and the new Metro system planned for Dublin will also be fully accessible.
While there has been significant progress in the development and provision of accessible buses for city services, the production of wheelchair accessible coaches is at an early stage across Europe and coaches of this type are not readily available.
Nevertheless, there are certain positive developments in this regard, including a major 4-year European research project, COST 349, which reported in October 2005. The Report made recommendations in respect of accessibility matters for coach type vehicles. A number of manufacturers are beginning to put the recommendations into practice in the design of their vehicles and such vehicles are only now commercially coming on the market.
Bus Éireann has undertaken to acquire a number of these vehicles for operational trials in Ireland. The Public Transport Accessibility Committee has very recently been briefed in the matter.
My Department has finalised a Sectorial Plan on Accessible Transport in accordance with the provisions of the Disability Act 2005. The Plan titled ‘Transport Access for All' addresses the accessibility needs of people with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairments across all transport modes and contains time bound targets for the progressive realisation of accessible transport in Ireland. It has been prepared following an extensive consultation exercise involving meetings and discussions with transport providers together with a wide range of groups in the disability sector.
199 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if he will set out standards for the location and quality of bus stops and shelters throughout the greater Dublin area, having particular regard to the need to encourage the general public to use public transport to a greater extent; and ifhe will make a statement on the matter. [36065/06]
The provision of bus stops and shelters in the greater Dublin area is a matter for the local authorities in that area, in consultation with the Garda Síochána and transport service providers.
200 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which in the short term, he expects the provision of an adequate feeder bus service to all commuter rail stations to encourage greater use of the rail service, thereby alleviating road traffic congestion and travel times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36066/06]
This is a day-to-day operational matter for the companies concerned and not one in which I have any role.
201 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which he expects commuter rail passenger numbers to be increased in the short term at all rail stations throughout the greater Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36067/06]
I understand from Iarnród Éireann that it expects that passenger numbers on its DART and commuter services in the Dublin area will reach 32.8 million in 2007, an increase of 20% on 2005.
203 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the development of increased air flights between Dublin and the rest of the country with particular reference to the development of a modern air taxi service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36069/06]
In the EU there is an open skies policy in which airlines are free to operate what routes they choose, including domestic routes, provided they satisfy the necessary requirements.
The provision of scheduled air services between the major towns and cities in Ireland is essentially a matter for airlines, if they consider there would be a demand for a particular service on a particular route. This is not a matter in which I or my Department would normally be involved, except as regards Public Service Obligation air services (PSO). Member States of the EU are allowed to provide financial compensation for the operation of PSO air services to regional airports, where it would not be economically viable for airlines to operate on a commercial basis. In 2005, I announced the award of contracts for the provision of PSO services from 2005 to 2008 on routes linking Dublin with the regional airports in Galway, Kerry, Sligo, Donegal, Ireland West (Knock) and City of Derry. There are no plans to expand this programme.
Ireland is adequately served by a network of airports, both international and regional. Furthermore, road and rail transport links between major towns and cities have improved significantly in recent years and further major improvements are planned as part of Transport 21.
204 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the action he proposes to take to encourage competition in air transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36070/06]
The air transport market in the EU has been fully liberalized and consequently fully competitive since 1992 with an open skies policy in which airlines are free to operate what routes they choose. This has provided an environment for increased competition, giving low cost carriers access to the market to the ultimate benefit of the consumer.
In June 2006 the EU concluded a multilateral agreement with ten additional countries on the Establishment of a European Common Aviation Area (ECAA). There is also a 1999 air transport agreement between the Community and Switzerland so that the effective market for Community air carriers now encompasses 36 countries. These measures have transformed the aviation sector making it extremely competitive giving the consumer a wide range of choice. The process will continue with a further EU regulation which will consolidate, simplify and further streamline the regulatory process.
I intend to ensure that Ireland's airports can provide cost competitive and appropriate infrastructure to meet the current and prospective needs of the aviation sector. In addition I will continue to facilitate and encourage as wide a range as possible of safe, reliable, regular and competitive commercial air services with non EU countries for Irish tourism, trade and industry. These objectives will be pursued by concluding liberal regulatory arrangements with non-EU states and by seeking to facilitate greater access on transatlantic routes by concluding the EU-US Open Skies agreement.
205 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the future of Aer Lingus and the development of air transport generally. [36071/06]
The Irish aviation sector plays a vital role in our continuing economic development and is a critical feature of the growth in tourism and trade. Aviation is particularly important for us because we are an island nation. The key objectives of Irish Aviation policy and the strategies being pursued to achieve those objectives are set out in my Department's Statement of Strategy 2005-2007 which was published on 29 July 2005 on the Department's website.
In broad terms the main objectives of Irish aviation policy are:
To facilitate and encourage as wide a range as possible of safe, reliable, regular and competitive commercial air services for Irish tourism, trade and industry; and
To ensure Ireland's airports can provide cost competitive and appropriate infrastructure to meet the current and prospective needs of the aviation sector.
These objectives will be pursued by concluding liberal regulatory arrangements with non-EU States and by seeking to facilitate greater access on transatlantic routes by concluding the EU/US ‘Open Skies' agreement. Open Skies offers significant growth and hub opportunities with considerable potential benefit to the Irish economy. I am seeking to bring this issue to conclusion in an EU-US context. If agreement on an EU/US agreement cannot be reached in a reasonable timeframe, I will seek to progress this bilaterally with the US authorities.
The recent successful flotation of Aer Lingus has provided the airline with access to new equity to enable it to compete effectively and fund the growth of its business. Through the IPO, the company now has new equity of the order of €0.5 billion, which provides it with unique opportunity to pursue its expansion based business strategy. It will be a matter for the Board of the company going forward to decide on its future strategy.
In relation to the proposed takeover of Aer Lingus by Ryanair, the Government's view is that Ireland's strategic objectives for aviation would not be well served by such a takeover. Earlier this week Ryanair applied to the European Commission for approval of its bid. Officials from my Department have already had initial contacts with European Commission officials to outline the Government's concerns in relation to the proposed takeover and will make further representations to the European Commission on this in the coming weeks.
With regard to Airports, it is Government policy to foster airport development, particularly at the three state airports, in order to encourage as wide a range as possible of reliable, regular and competitive air services to and from Ireland. Policy is also aimed at facilitating the contribution of the regional airports to balanced regional development.
Airport development in Ireland must take into account the needs of low cost and full service airlines. Airport development should also enable the development of critical long-haul business to North America and to other long haul destinations. Major development will be required at our key gateway airport, Dublin Airport, over the next decade. Among the priorities are a new Terminal 2 and pier and apron facilities that will allow the airport to respond to demand and to improve the overall passenger experience for all users.
206 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the criteria for persons with disabilities for seeking employment opportunities within his Department; the application procedures that apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35896/06]
My Department does not recruit directly. All recruitment including persons with disabilities is conducted on our behalf by the Public Appointments Service.
The Public Appointments Service is subject to Codes of Practice published by the Commission for Public Service Appointments. The Code of Practice sets out the principles and standards to be applied in the case of external and internal recruitment of persons with disabilities and enables the Civil Service, and other public bodies, to fulfil their obligations to comply with Government policy in this regard.
In relation to persons with disabilities working in the Department, the Department of Finance guidelines for dealing with staff with disabilities are adhered to in this regard.
207 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of persons currently employed in his Department whose status has changed to that of disabled since the commencement of their employment with his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35897/06]
There is currently only one employee employed in my Department whose status has changed to that of a person with a disability since the commencement of their employment with my Department.
208 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the problems caused by unlicenced operators pretending to be charities; if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties they cause for genuine charities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35909/06]
The Government has acknowledged that Irish charity law is in need of modernisation. To address this, there is a commitment in the Agreed Programme for Government that a comprehensive reform of the law relating to charities will be enacted to ensure accountability and to protect against abuse of charitable status and fraud.
In delivering on this commitment, earlier this year, the Government approved the General Scheme for the Charities Regulation Bill. It is anticipated that the Charities Regulation Bill, which is currently being drafted as a priority, will be published in early 2007.
209 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will make urgent provisions for the necessary changes to a pier (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35972/06]
As explained to the Deputy in previous replies, a report carried out for my Department in 2005 by the consultants Malachy Walsh and Partners, in conjunction with McClure Watters, concluded, inter alia, that the development over the last number of years of new piers, both on the island in question and at an adjacent mainland location, had satisfied a key Departmental objective to provide safe access to that island.
Notwithstanding this conclusion, my officials are currently evaluating an application from Mayo County Council for additional funding to assist with the cost of carrying out further substantial improvements to the piers in question, together with minor improvements to slipways on the island and at the mainland location referred to by the Deputy.
210 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will address the need for a state of the art pier facility at The Valley, Achill Island, County Mayo to replace an existing pier; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35975/06]
My Department does not have any application for funding for the pier referred to by the Deputy from either Mayo County Council or from the local community. If any such application is received, it will be assessed in accordance with the standard criteria under my Department's scheme for the development of small piers and harbours in the Gaeltacht.
211 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will make provision for the necessary changes for a pier (details supplied) in County Mayo, in view of the fact that minor works took place and that there is a great need for further works at this area to enable unrestricted access to and from this pier; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35976/06]
The pier in question is not situated within the Gaeltacht and therefore is not eligible for funding under my Department's scheme for the development of small piers in Gaeltacht areas. Dependent on the CLÁR piers measure being run again in 2007 this pier may be be eligible for funding under that scheme. To apply for this the people involved should contact the local authority.
212 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad é an dul chun cinn atá déanta maidir le haerstráice a chur ar fáil ar Thoraigh; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [36034/06]
Le cúpla bliain anuas, tá Údarás na Gaeltachta i mbun obair réamh-phleanála i gcomhair aerstráice a thógáil ar Oileán Thoraí. Ag eascairt ón obair seo, fuarthas cead pleanála don fhorbairt ó Chomhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall i 2004.
I láthair na huaire, tá comhráití ar bun idir oifigigh mo Roinne agus Comhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall maidir le hOrduithe Ceannacháin Éigeantaigh a chur i bhfeidhm ar an talamh a theastaíonn don togra.
213 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad é an dul chun cinn atá déanta ag Comhairlí Contae Dhún na nGall, na Gaillimhe, Mhaigh Eo, Chiarraí, Chorcaí, Phort Láirge agus na Mí, faoi seach, maidir le síneacha tráchta a chloíonn le hAcht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 a chur ar fáil; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina leith. [36035/06]
Ní thagann síneacha tráchta faoi Act na dTeangacha Oifigiúla agus mar sin tuigfidh an Teachta gur cúram é seo a bhaineann leis na húdaráis áitiúla féin agus nach bhfuil aon fhreagracht ormsa mar Aire i ndáil leis na húdaráis sin.
214 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of live cattle exports for 2004 and 2005; the countries these cattle exports were destined for; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35892/06]
The following table sets out details of the export of live cattle for the years 2004 and 2005. The live export trade is an important competitive element in the livestock and meat trade and as such has my full support as an integral part of the sector.
|
Destination |
2004 |
2005 |
|
Belgium |
1,496 |
1,268 |
|
France |
340 |
4,724 |
|
Great Britain |
1,203 |
1,202 |
|
Northern Ireland |
44,814 |
26,450 |
|
Germany |
6 |
95 |
|
Greece |
54 |
151 |
|
Italy |
19,474 |
47,253 |
|
Netherlands |
30,595 |
44,062 |
|
Portugal |
0 |
0 |
|
Spain |
20,675 |
50,108 |
|
Poland |
0 |
80 |
|
Other EU |
0 |
0 |
|
Total EU |
118,657 |
175,393 |
|
Egypt |
0 |
0 |
|
Lebanon |
11,422 |
9,436 |
|
Libya |
0 |
0 |
|
Saudi Arabia |
0 |
0 |
|
Yemen |
0 |
0 |
|
Other 3rd Countries |
268 |
438 |
|
Total 3rd Countries |
11,690 |
9,874 |
|
Total Live Exports |
130,347 |
185,267 |
The exports were valued at almost €58 million in 2005.
215 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if her attention was drawn to the discussions at the expert meeting of the European Commission’s advisory committee which took place on 25 October 2006; if after that meeting, in her view, member states’ concerns regarding whether or not certain agriculture and rural development related transfers might be legal under the EU law governing state aid have been met; if she shares the view of the German Government that under the current EU Regulation on Rural Development (1698/05) national rural development measures that are not co-founded by the EU are not be permitted under EU rules governing state aid; the implications of this interpretation of EU Regulation 1698/05 for her recently announced conclusion of an agreement with the agriculture social partners; if she is confident that proposals to amend EU Regulation 1698/05 will be successful in order that measures such as those she announced last week at the conclusion of talks with the agriculture social partners might be allowed under EU state aid rules; and the steps she is talking and prepared to take to ensure such an amendment comes into force before she has to fulfil the pledges she has made to the agriculture social partners in relation to the rural development-related package announced last week. [35998/06]
My Department was represented at the meeting of the Working Group on State Aids on 25 October at which the Commission's latest proposals for the State Aid Guidelines for the agriculture sector, 2007-2013, were discussed. I, together with several of my EU Ministerial colleagues, had indicated strong opposition to the Commission's original proposals. Following these representations, the Commission published revised proposals on 21 October. The Commission indicated at the meeting on 25 October that it would consider the further comments of Member States before reaching a final decision on the State Aid rules which will apply for 2007-2013.
On the basis of the Commission's latest proposals, I am satisfied with the degree of coherence between the EU Rural Development Regulation and the proposed State Aid Guidelines for the Agriculture sector for the period 2007 to 2013. The position is that any State aided rural development measure introduced by a Member State outside its national Rural Development Programme must be notified separately to the Commission and must demonstrate how the measure fits in with and is coherent with the relevant programme.
National Rural Development Programmes for the period 2007-2013 must be submitted for approval to the Commission. In Ireland's case, the majority of measures agreed under the Partnership process will form an integral part of our Rural Development Plan and will not need to be notified or considered separately under State Aid rules. In the case of measures subject to additional national financing or funded totally by the State, I am satisfied that Ireland will not have any difficulty in demonstrating their coherence with the Rural Development Programme or in complying with the supplementary notification requirement.
216 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her views on the fact that there is dissatisfaction within the ranks of persons who were interviewed during the 2005 and 2006 rounds of interviews for promotions to area superintendent and district superintendent grades; if, in view of this dissatisfaction and the risk it poses to the esprit de corps among employees of her Department, she will review the outcome of these interviews; and if she will make a statement on the feedback received by her Department on foot of these two rounds of interviews. [36010/06]
I am satisfied that all the interviews were conducted in a fair and equitable manner in respect of all the candidates. The format and processes governing the interviews were agreed in advance with the union, which represents the grades in question and an independent Human Resource consultant chaired each interview board.
217 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the details of the new early farm retirement scheme that she preliminarily announced on 19 October 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36011/06]
Subject to the approval of the European Commission, the new Rural Development Programme will include provision for a Scheme of Early Retirement from Farming with a yearly maximum payment rate of €15,000. Further details of the proposed Scheme will be included in the text of the draft Programme which my Department will publish shortly for consultation.
218 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if payment of a single farm payment will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [36054/06]
An application under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme was received from the person named on 15 May 2006. The 50% advance payment, in the amount of €8,189.39, issued to the person named on 25 October 2006.
219 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will extend the time limit for grants applications under the Nitrates Directive for farmers who now find they will not have their planning applications processed before the end of December, in view of the delay in receiving clarification from the EU and taking into account the Christmas holiday period; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36055/06]
A revised Farm Waste Management Scheme was introduced by my Department in March 2006 in order to assist farmers meet the additional requirements of the Nitrates Directive. As the Scheme forms part of the current EU Rural Development Round, it must close for new applications at the end of this year. I have already agreed that, where the proposed works under the Scheme require planning permission, applications may be forwarded to my Department as soon as an application for such permission has been made to the relevant local authority. I am keeping this procedure under review to ensure that the scheme is availed of to the maximum extent.
Before final consideration of the application can take place, full and final planning permission, including conditions, must be received.
220 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will ensure that entitlements under the national reserve for 2005 for a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim are granted as soon as possible; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36072/06]
The person named applied for an allocation of entitlements from the Single Payment Scheme National Reserve under category A, and category B. Category A caters for farmers who inherited land or received land free of charge or for a nominal sum from a farmer who had retired or died by 16 May 2005 and who had leased out his/her holding to a third party during the reference period 2000-2002. The person named was not successful under this category as the land acquired was not leased out during the reference period.
Category B caters for farmers who, between 1 January, 2000 and 19 October, 2003 made an investment in production capacity in a farming sector for which a direct payment under Livestock Premia and/or Arable Aid schemes would have been payable during the reference period 2000-2002. Investments can include purchase or long-term lease of land, purchase of suckler and/or ewe quota or other investments. The person named applied under two sub-sections of Category B — namely B(i) and B(iv).
Under B(i) the person named applied for allocation of additional entitlements in respect of leased land. In order to receive additional entitlements from the National Reserve, an applicant must have land free of entitlements. Under the Single Payment Scheme, farmers established entitlements based on the premia claimed and the number of hectares declared on their Area Aid during the reference years 2000-2002. In order to receive payment on these entitlements the farmer must declare an eligible hectare of land for each entitlement. The person named established 48.89 entitlements during the reference years but only declared 48.18 eligible hectares on his 2005 Single Payment form. Therefore he has no land free to allocate additional entitlements to under Category B(i) of the National Reserve.
In addition, as the person named did not have sufficient land to receive payment on all of his entitlements in 2005 he opted to consolidate his entitlements which meant that he maximised his Single Payment for 2005.
With regard to the application submitted under B(iv) — other investment — my Department has written to the person named requesting him to submit documentary evidence in support of this investment. To date no reply has been received.
Furthermore this particular case also involved a successful application under the Force Majeure measure of the Single Payment Scheme and if the person named is deemed successful under Category B(iv) he will have to be examined under the anti-accumulation provisions of the regulations to ensure that any allocation from the National Reserve does not result in double benefit.
221 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the criteria for persons with disabilities for seeking employment opportunities within her Department; the application procedures that apply; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35899/06]
The Public Appointments Service recruits the majority of staff for the Department of Education and Science. For certain posts, (eg. service support staff, temporary and contract posts), my Department conducts its own recruitment. Recruitment to posts within my Department is on the basis of qualifications, where applicable, and the ability to carry out the responsibilities of the grade or post. Persons with disabilities are entitled to apply for all competitions for which they are eligible and no special application procedures are required. During the selection process and in any subsequent placement in a post, any special needs requirements of an individual will be accommodated in as far as is possible.
222 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the numbers of staff in her Department who have indicated willingness to decentralise; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35900/06]
A total of 312 officers in my Department have indicated a willingness to decentralise. Of this number, 130 have indicated that they are willing to decentralise with my Department. A further 182 officers have indicated that they are willing to decentralise with other departments/offices.
223 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the scale of investment in the Castlebar campus of Galway Mayo Institute of Technology for each of the past three years; the capital investment for the proposed health science complex for non-nursing health trainees allocated to date; and the capital to be spent in 2007 on same; the proposed investments for capital refurbishment for 2007 and beyond; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35955/06]
My Department has provided capital investment totalling €721,437 for the Castlebar campus of Galway Mayo Institute of Technology for the period in question as follows:
2003 — €17,218
2004 — €46,218
2005 — €658,000.
With regard to a proposed health science complex for non nursing trainees I am not aware of any such proposal having been received in my Department.
Galway Mayo Institute of Technology is anxious to proceed with the development of a new entrance to the campus at Castlebar. My Department is considering the matter further.
224 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 629 of 24 October 2006, the decision arrived at following the assessment of the application involved for physical education facilities; the next step involved following her approval of the project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35956/06]
The PE Hall project at the school referred to is part of an extension/refurbishment application from the school and has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria put in place following consultation with the Education Partners. Further progression of the proposed project will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.
My Department is committed to funding the provision of PE Halls, general purpose and outdoor play areas in schools as part of the school building and modernization programme. This is being addressed in the context of available resources and the published criteria for prioritising school building projects.
225 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of claims made to the redress board for compensation in respect of abuse which was suffered in residential centres; the number of children placed in these centres by a court following application to it under the Children Act 1908 in respect of these numbers; the number who were placed there voluntarily; the number of the applications made by the State and the numbers made by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children in respect of those placed in these centres by order of the court under the 1908 Act. [35966/06]
The Residential Institutions Redress Board was established under statute in 2002 to provide financial redress to victims of child abuse in residential institutions in order to assist them in their recovery and enhance the quality of the remainder of their lives. The Board received 14,541 applications by the 15th of December, 2005, the closing date for receipt of applications.
The Residential Institutions Redress Board is independent in the performance of its functions and the application process is confidential in accordance with the terms of the Residential Institutions Redress Act, 2002. My Department therefore does not have access to the information on those applications as requested by the Deputy.
226 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools here that currently have Model United Nations or Model European Parliament Programs available for their students; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35980/06]
There is no requirement for schools to inform my Department if they have established Model United Nations or Model European Parliament programmes. Accordingly, the information requested by the Deputy is not available in my Department.
227 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review her decision to refuse home tuition to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny in view of the recent assessment carried out by the educational and psychological consultant. [35981/06]
The Deputy may be aware that the home tuition scheme provides funding to parents to provide education at home for children who, for a number of reasons such as chronic illness, are unable to attend school. The scheme was extended in recent years to facilitate tuition for children awaiting a suitable educational placement.
There is an educational placement available for the child referred to by the Deputy and therefore he does not qualify for tuition under the terms of the scheme.
228 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the recourse of an Irish citizen (details supplied); her views on whether this situation is anomalous and unfair to the person in question; the steps this person can take; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35982/06]
Third level institutions are autonomous bodies and can themselves determine the level of tuition fees to be charged for postgraduate courses. My Department does not have a role in determining the level of these fees.
229 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science if the HEA has carried out, or is in the process of carrying out an investigation into allegations regarding management at University College Cork (details supplied); if she has made a formal request to the HEA to carry out such an investigation; if so when she expects to receive information with regard to their findings; if she has received information regarding this matter from the HEA; her views on whether the HEA is the best authority to carry out such an investigation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35987/06]
The Higher Education Authority is the statutory body which advises on the full range of policy issues relating to higher education and research.
On foot of various representations which I received regarding management at University College Cork, I asked the Higher Education Authority for a report on the issues raised. The Chief Executive and representatives of the HEA met the Chair and representatives of the Governing Body of UCC last week to discuss the issues and how they may be addressed. Following these consultations the HEA announced that a person who is external to, and independent of UCC, is to be appointed by the Governing Body of UCC to review allegations not already inquired into by the Governing Body.
In the case of allegations which have been, or are being, inquired into by the Governing Body, the independent person will review the Governing Body's process. The independent person will report to the Governing Body, stating if there is substance in any allegations and s/he can make recommendations for remedial action and/or a further process of examination if considered appropriate. An interim report is expected by 12 December 2006. The Governing Body will report to the HEA who will advise me of any action they consider appropriate.
230 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of meetings her Department has had with interested groups in regard to the provision of a site that will provide a sustainable position in regard to the population increase in the Newbridge, County Kildare area and its hinterland for educational purpose particularly at primary education level; the results of such meeting; her views on such results; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35990/06]
234 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans in regard to the provision of a new primary school in Newbridge to provide a permanent structure in this area where a large increase in the population has necessitated the school principals joining a parish enrolment committee in an attempt to address the growing problems that schools are encountering in seeking to address new applications; the timescale envisaged in regard to the provision of a permanent structure rather than portacabins or temporary structures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35994/06]
246 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the meetings her Department officials and consultants appointed by Kildare County Council have had in relation to the drawing up of the development plan for Newbridge; the results of such meetings in relation to the educational needs of the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36041/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 230, 234 and 246 together.
To meet increased demand for primary school places in the area referred to by the Deputy, a Notice of Intention to apply for the recognition of a new primary school to commence operation next September has been submitted to the New Schools Advisory Committee (NSAC). As with all such applications, a full application must be submitted to the NSAC no later than 31st of January 2007 and, following the NSAC's report to me in the matter, I expect to announce my decision in mid-April of 2007.
In relation to both the immediate and the long term educational needs for the Newbridge area, officials in the School Planning Section of the Department are currently working closely with the schools' authorities in the area to see how best these needs can be met. These discussions are ongoing and include the issue of site acquisition to facilitate both temporary school accommodation and permanent buildings.
The Department is also proactively engaged with the Local Authority in relation to the development of education infrastructure in Newbridge and did make a submission on this matter when the Newbridge Local Area Plan was being drafted by the Local Authority.
231 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of meetings she or her officials or officials or consultants appointed by her have had with officials or consultants appointed by Kildare County Council in seeking to determine the educational needs for County Kildare in the drawing up of the County Kildare Development Plan 2005 to 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35991/06]
232 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if a submission was sought from her and if so, if a submission was made to Kildare County Council as part of drawing up of the Kildare County Council Development Plan 2005 to 2011; the normal procedure that applies in regard to her input or overview in regard to development plans and the need to address educational needs as a result of such plans; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35992/06]
233 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if in view of the increase in population in County Kildare she has drawn up a contingency plan to deal with such an increase in regard to the educational needs of Kildare; the meetings with interested groups she has had in regard to the matter; if she sought or if submissions were made to her in regard to the matter; the groups or interested parties that made such submissions; if further interaction has taken place as a result of such submissions or meetings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35993/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 231 to 233, inclusive, together.
My Department is included among the prescribed authorities to whom local authorities are statutorily obliged to send draft development plans or proposed variations to development plans for comment. As a matter of course meetings are arranged with local authorities to establish the location, scale and pace of any major proposed developments and their possible implications for school provision. As part of this procedure the Department made its submission to the Plan in October, 2004.
In addition, the School Planning Section of my Department is working proactively with the local authority to explore the possibility of the development of school provision in tandem with the development of community facilities. This enhanced cooperation has the effect of minimising the Department's land requirements and thus reducing site costs while at the same time providing local communities with new schools with enhanced facilities.
235 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications with her Department for the provision of new schools or extensions to existing schools or for the provision of portacabins in County Kildare on her building programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35995/06]
The information required by the deputy is not readily available and would take an inordinate amount of administrative time to prepare.
The Deputy will be aware that meeting the needs of developing areas such as those in Kildare is a major priority for this government. To that end, we have invested more than €110 million in the School Building Programme in Kildare.
This record level of investment has provided for new schools in areas such as Celbridge, Killashee, and Naas. Major refurbishment works have also been carried out in schools in Kilcock, Leixlip, Newbridge and Sallins. There are a number of schools in Kildare at various stages of architectural planning at present, including schools in Castledermot, Maynooth, and Kilcock.
€1.9 million was allocated to 25 schools in the Kildare area under the Summer Works Scheme in 2006 — 16 primary and 9 post-primary schools. Successful applications for my Summer Works Scheme 2007 will be announced shortly.
I assure the Deputy that this government will continue to prioritise the needs of developing areas such as those in Kildare.
236 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the procedure available to parents seeking school places for their children; the timescale in regard to such a request; her views on parents applications for school places in preferred areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35996/06]
The compulsory school starting age in a National School is 6 years of age. Enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools and my Department does not seek to intervene in decisions made by schools in such matters. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.
It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools that are not in a position to admit all pupils seeking entry to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act. In this regard a board of management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. In formulating an admissions policy a school must, however, ensure it is lawful. In particular, it must act in accordance with section 7 of the Equal Status Act 2000.
It is open to all schools to apply for extra temporary accommodation to meet the immediate need for places at junior infant level or for older children. Such applications are invariably granted but of course schools need to make sure that they apply for extra accommodation in time.
Where a Board of Management refuses to enrol a student in a school, the parent of the student or, where the student has reached 18 years of age, the student himself or herself, following the conclusion of any appeal procedures at school level, has a statutory entitlement under section 29 of the Education Act to appeal that decision to the Secretary General of the Department of Education and Science. A committee is established to hear the appeal with hearings conducted with a minimum of formality. In most cases appeals must be dealt with within 30 days. Where appropriate, the Secretary General may give whatever directions to the Board of Management that are considered necessary to remedy the matter complained of.
Details on appealing decisions on enrolment under section 29 of the Education Act are available on my Department's website at www.education.ie.
237 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of section 29s made to her Department in regard to applications for school positions in Kildare for each of the past three years; the area for which such applications were made; the results of such applications; the reaction of her Department to such applications; the action taken; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [35997/06]
Section 29 of the Education Act, 1998, allows parents, and students who have reached the age of 18, the right to appeal certain decisions made by a school's Board of Management. Appeals may be made in respect of a decision to (i) permanently exclude a student (ii) suspend a student from the school for a period which would bring the cumulative period of suspension to 20 school days in any one school year or (iii) refuse to enrol a student.
In 2004 a total of 10 section 29 appeals in respect of first and second level schools in Co. Kildare were made to the Secretary General of my Department. Of these, 1 was resolved by an independent facilitator, appointed by my Department and who brokered an agreement between the parties to the appeal; 4 were upheld by the appeals committee; and 5 were not upheld by the appeals committee. The areas covered by the appeals were Naas (4), Newbridge (3), Celbridge (2), and Athgarvan (1).
In 2005 a total of 14 section 29 appeals in respect of first and second level schools in Co. Kildare were made. Of these, 5 were withdrawn by the appellant, 2 were resolved by an independent facilitator, 3 were upheld by the appeals committee, and 4 were not upheld by the appeals committee. The areas covered by the appeals were Naas (9), Newbridge (3), Celbridge (1), and Kilcullen (1).
To date in 2006 a total of 19 section 29 appeals in respect of first and second level schools in Co. Kildare have been made. Of these, 4 were withdrawn by the appellant, 1 was resolved by local agreement between the appellant and school, 6 were upheld by the appeals committee, and 8 were not upheld by the appeals committee. The areas covered by the appeals were Naas (12), Celbridge (3), Curragh (2), Newbridge (1), and Ballymore Eustace (1).
As appeals under section 29 are determined by an independent appeals committee, it would not be appropriate for me to offer any further comment.
238 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science when she will appoint an eminent international expert on higher education to carry out a preliminary independent examination of the submission by the governing body of Waterford Institute of Technology to have the institute designated as a university; the date by which this report must be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36014/06]
239 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science when she received the submission from the governing body of Waterford Institute of Technology to have the institute designated as a university; the reason she does not immediately set up a body of experts under Section 9 of the Universities Act, 1997, to advise on whether WIT should be established as a university; when she plans to establish such a body; the length of time she would expect such a body take to produce its advice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36015/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 238 and 239 together.
In February 2006 the Governing Body of Waterford Institute of Technology wrote to my Department seeking a review of its status under Section 9 of the Universities Act 1997.
Since this submission was made, the Government has passed significant new legislation in the form of the Institutes of Technology Act 2006. This will now bring our institutes of technology and universities together under a single strategic ambit. It also provides substantial new managerial and academic freedoms for our leading institutes of technology to develop their roles in line with regional needs and strategic ambition.
The new legislation will transform the Irish higher education landscape and needs to inform our consideration of the case being made for university status for Waterford. In order to achieve the best outcome, as a first step, I intend to commission a preliminary independent examination of the submission that the Governing Body has made.
This preliminary independent examination will involve the appointment of an eminent international expert on higher education. The expert will comprehensively analyse the Waterford IT submission, taking account of the wider changing policy context. Once completed, the independent expert report will be used to guide the Government's decision on whether a formal statutory review process should be initiated to consider the application, as required under the Universities Act. I hope to make an appointment shortly.
240 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 741 of 4 July 2006, when she will approve funding for physical education halls in vocational educational committee schools in Drumshanbo, Carrigallen and Drumkeerin, County Leitrim in line with commitments given by her; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36030/06]
My Department is committed to funding the provision of PE Halls, general purpose and outdoor play areas in schools as part of the school building and modernisation programme. This is being addressed in the context of available resources and the published criteria for prioritising school building projects.
Applications for capital funding towards the provision of extensions which will include physical education halls have been received in my Department in respect of the schools in Drumshambo, Carrigallen and Drumkeerin. The projects have been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria and are being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.
241 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta an bhfuil deontas ceadaithe le haghaidh Halla Spóirt do scoil (sonraí tugtha); cad é méid an deontais; cén staid ag a bhfuil an fhorbairt atá beartaithe faoi láthair; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [36036/06]
Tá an Halla Spóirt nua atá beartaithe don scoil dar thagair an Teachta ag luathchéim den phleanáil ailtireachta agus cheadaigh mé don scoil dul i mbun tairscintí agus tógála i mí Dheireadh Fómhair na bliana seo. Scríobh mo Roinnse chuig Údaráis na Scoile agus Foireann Deartha na Scoile an 10 Deireadh Fómhair ag tabhairt cead dóibh aighneacht chéim 3 (miondearadh agus costáil) a ullmhú.
Nuair a chuirfear aighneacht chéim 3 faoi bhráid mo Roinne socróidh mo chuid oifigigh cruinniú le hÚdaráis na Scoile agus lena bhFoireann Deartha leis an doiciméad a mheas. Meastar, mura mbeidh cúinsí ar leith i gceist, gur leor an cruinniú seo le cead a thabhairt an togra seo a chur ar aghaidh go dtí na chéad chéimeanna eile sa phleanáil ailtireachta.
242 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta cad é an dul chun cinn atá déanta maidir le forbairt a dhéanamh ar scoil (sonraí tugtha); cad iad na háiseanna breise atá beartaithe a chur ar fáil; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [36037/06]
Tá an síneadh agus an togra athchóirithe atá beartaithe don scoil dar thagair an Teachta ag luathchéim réamhphleanála ailtireachta agus tá sí ar cheann de cheathracha scoil ar fhógair mé in Aibreán na bliana seo go bhféadfaí dul i mbun tairiscintí agus tógála. I Meitheamh na bliana seo scríobh mo Roinnse chuig Údaráis na Scoile agus aighneacht iomlán chéim 3 ( miondearadh agus costáil) á lorg acu ó Fhoireann Deartha na Scoile.
Nuair a gheobhaidh mo Roinnse aighneacht iomlán chéim 3 socróidh mo chuid Oifigigh cruinniú le hÚdaráis na Scoile agus a bhFoireann Deartha leis an doiciméad a mheas. Meastar, mura mbeidh cúinsí ar leith i gceist, gur leor an cruinniú seo le cead a thabhairt an togra seo a chur ar aghaidh go dtí na chéad chéimeanna eile sa phleanáil ailtireachta.
243 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the meetings her Department officials and consultants appointed by Kildare County Council have had in relation to the drawing up of the development plan for Athy; the results of such meetings in relation to the educational needs of the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36038/06]
I wish to inform the Deputy that meetings have been held between officials in the School Planning Section of the Department and officials in both Kildare County Council and Athy Town Council with a view to ensuring that the necessary educational provision can be provided in the area in conjunction with the proposed future developments there. Further meetings between the Department and Local Authority are planned in order to progress matters.
244 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the meetings her Department officials and consultants appointed by Kildare County Council have had in relation to the drawing up of the development plan for Kildare Town; the results of such meetings in relation to the educational needs of the area. [36039/06]
245 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the meetings her Department officials and consultants appointed by Kildare County Council have had in relation to the drawing up of the development plan for Monasterevin; the results of such meetings in relation to the educational needs of the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36040/06]
247 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the meetings her Department officials and consultants appointed by Kildare County Council have had in relation to the drawing up of the development plan for Castledermot; the results of such meetings in relation to the educational needs of the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36042/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 244, 245 and 247 together.
As the Deputy is aware the Department is included among the prescribed authorities to whom local authorities are statutorily obliged to send draft development plans or proposed variations to development plans for comment. Under this process, the Department made its submission in October, 2004 to the Kildare Draft Development Plan in relation to the areas in question.
In addition, the School Planning Section of my Department is working proactively with the local authority to explore the possibility of the development of school provision in tandem with the development of community facilities. This enhanced cooperation has the effect of minimising the Departments land requirements and thus reducing site costs while at the same time providing local communities with new schools with enhanced facilities.
248 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to introduce pension rights, sick pay and other entitlements to long serving substitute and temporary teachers in the primary school sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36043/06]
Provision exists for the reckoning of pension purposes of substitute service given as a qualified teacher where that service reaches specific thresholds. This provision applies to substitute service given since 1991. The service may be reckoned following appointment to a permanent teaching post and is subject to the payment of appropriate pension contributions.
Revised arrangements for reckoning substitute service for pension purposes arising from recent pension reforms are being finalised. A Circular Letter outlining the detailed arrangements is being prepared and it is expected that it will be issued to schools in the coming months.
Qualified teachers employed in a temporary capacity in primary schools become members of the National Teachers Superannuation Scheme on appointment in that capacity.
The full implications of the Protection of Employees (Fixed Term Work Act, 2003 for qualified temporary and substitute teachers employed on fixed term contracts are the subject of ongoing discussions between officials of my Department, the managerial authorities of schools and the teacher unions.
The principle that applies to temporary and substitute teachers employed on fixed term contracts is the principle of no less favourable treatment during the period of their contract unless objective grounds exist for doing so.
Therefore the sick pay and other entitlements of such teachers during the period of their contract, are as for comparable permanent teachers.
249 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Defence the criteria for persons with disabilities for seeking employment opportunities within his Department; the application procedures that apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35898/06]
The Department of Defence fully implements the Government's policy on the employment of people with a disability. Recruitment to and promotion within the Civil Service is governed by the Public Service Management (Recruitment and Appointments) Act, 2004 and by the Civil Service Regulation Acts, 1956-2005. The 2004 Act provides for the establishment of the Commission for Public Service Appointments (CPSA) and of the Public Appointments Service (PAS). The CPSA publishes codes of practice prescribing the necessary standards of probity, merit, equity and fairness to be applied by all those carrying out recruitment and promotion under the terms of the Act. The PAS provides a centralised recruitment, assessment and selection body for the Civil Service.
Recruitment competitions run by the Public Appointments Service (PAS) are open to all candidates, including those with disabilities, subject to their meeting the eligibility requirements of the competition. Application forms invite candidates to indicate any special requirements they may have when undergoing the selection process and every effort is made to facilitate these requests by the competition managers.
A new approach to the recruitment and placement of people with a disability in the Civil Service is currently being developed with the aim of ensuring that 3% of all recruits to the Civil Service are people with a disability. It is envisaged that this approach will provide for the holding of recruitment competitions confined to candidates with a disability and for the setting up, in regular recruitment competitions, of sub-panels for such candidates.
In relation to employment in the Department of Defence, my Department is compliant with the requirement that 3% of posts are held by people with a disability. In addition the Department is participating in the WAM (Willing Able Mentoring) Project, which is a work experience placement administered by the Association of Higher Education Access and Disability (AHEAD) which aims to place graduates with disabilities with employers in the public and private sectors.
250 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the proposed energy rating that will apply to a domestic houses built to the exact specifications set out in the existing building regulations, under the grading system that is due to be introduced under the Energy Performance in Buildings Directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35965/06]
The Interdepartmental Group on the Implementation of the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive are finalising the Building Energy Rating label to be issued for new dwellings commencing on or after 1 January 2007, in the light of feedback from stakeholders who were consulted on an initial draft of the label.
The definitive draft of the label will shortly be submitted for my approval. In the meantime, I am not in a position to comment on the likely rating of new dwellings built to the minimum standards prescribed by Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Energy) of the Building Regulations.
251 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of funding requested by Cork County Council to construct the northern relief road in Midleton, County Cork; the amount which has been made available to date; the estimated cost of the relief road; when he expects it to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36061/06]
The improvement of non-national roads in its area is a matter for Cork County Council to be funded from its own resources supplemented by State grants provided by my Department.
I understand that the total estimated cost of the Midleton Northern Relief Road is approximately €1,778,000 and my Department has approved grant assistance of €1,333,225 towards the cost of the project. From 2002 to the end of 2005, grant assistance of €112,742 provided to Cork County Council and in 2006 I allocated a grant of €316,000 for the scheme. I understand, from enquiries made of Cork County Council, that the projected completion date for the road is late 2008.
252 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Government intends to provide new sewerage treatment plants to meet the current and future needs of east Meath in view of its current dependence for such services on Louth County Council and Fingal County Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35872/06]
A Technical Working Group representing my Department, Meath and Louth County Councils and Drogheda Borough Council is examining water services needs in east and south Meath having regard to all relevant data and policy frameworks such the National Spatial Strategy, and Regional Planning Guidelines; and to the need for economic solutions (including where appropriate shared service arrangements) to identified infrastructural requirements. The Working Group's recommendations, which are expected by the end of the year, will be taken into account, in conjunction with the priorities identified in both County Councils' formal assessments of water services needs, in the next phase of my Department's Water Services Investment Programme.
253 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of housing units that have been inspected by each local authority for suitability under the rental accommodation scheme; the number approved under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35911/06]
To date 1877 housing units have been inspected by local authorities for suitability under the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) of which 1771 cases have been approved as suitable for the scheme as detailed in the following table.
Under RAS local authorities use a range of measures to provide accommodation for recipients of rent supplement assessed as having a long-term housing need and is particularly suited to secure improved quality accommodation. To date local authorities have transferred some 2,000 cases to RAS accommodation and an additional 1,500 rent supplement households have also been allocated local authority housing. RAS will supplement the Action Programme on Private Rented Accommodation Standards and other initiatives being undertaken under the Partnership agreement Towards 2016 towards the improvement of standards in the private rented sector.
|
Local Authorities (Housing) |
Total no. of properties inspected |
Properties suitable for RAS |
|
Carlow County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Cavan County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Clare County Council |
88 |
71 |
|
Cork City & Co Councils |
224 |
219 |
|
Donegal County Council |
81 |
81 |
|
Dublin City Council |
293 |
289 |
|
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council |
9 |
9 |
|
Fingal County Council |
94 |
93 |
|
South Dublin County Council |
259 |
229 |
|
Galway County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Galway City Council |
82 |
69 |
|
Kerry County Council |
37 |
30 |
|
Kildare County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Kilkenny County Council |
30 |
30 |
|
Laois County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Leitrim County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Limerick City Council |
102 |
102 |
|
Limerick County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Longford County Council |
21 |
21 |
|
Louth County Council |
337 |
309 |
|
Mayo County Council |
2 |
2 |
|
Meath County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Monaghan County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
North Tipperary County Council |
6 |
6 |
|
South Tipperary County Council |
9 |
9 |
|
Offaly County Council |
86 |
86 |
|
Roscommon County Council |
30 |
30 |
|
Sligo County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Waterford County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Waterford City Council |
37 |
36 |
|
Westmeath County Council |
20 |
20 |
|
Wexford County Council |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Wicklow County Council |
30 |
30 |
|
Total |
1877 |
1771 |
254 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason the second phase of the farm waste plastic scheme does not operate in County Limerick; if his attention has been drawn to the waste plastic backlog in the county and the inadequacy of the only landfill site available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35958/06]
To address the issue of accumulated backlogs of farm plastic, designated facilities are being provided on a temporary, once-off basis by local authorities where farmers may deposit stockpiled farm film plastic and silage wrap. This arrangement operated on a pilot basis in the first instance in counties Galway, Clare, Mayo, Offaly and Waterford during June and July of this year. This service is free to the farmer and funding to assist the local authorities is being made available from my Department through the Environment Fund.
The collections were well supported by farmers in the counties participating in the pilot phase leading to large quantities of plastic being deposited at designated sites. A significant finding from the pilot scheme is that it is not possible to operate collections in a large number of counties at the same time due to capacity constraints on the part of recovery operators. Accordingly, it is necessary to roll out the scheme to other areas on a staggered basis. Arising from a comprehensive examination of the information available, I have recently announced that collections of waste silage-bale wrap will now be put in place by Leitrim, Roscommon, Carlow, Longford, North Tipperary and Wicklow County Councils. Announcements regarding further extensions of collections to other areas, including Limerick, will follow completion of collections in those counties taking part in the second phase of the scheme.
The local authority collections are being put in place on a once off basis to remove accumulated silage bale wrap and sheeting from farms. Under the Waste Management (Farm Plastics) Regulations 2001, producers — i.e. manufacturers and importers — of farm plastics (silage bale wrap and sheeting) are required to take steps to recover farm plastics waste which they have placed on the market or alternatively to contribute to, and participate in, compliance schemes to recover the waste in question. The Irish Farm Film Producers Group (IFFPG) is currently the sole approved body in Ireland for the purposes of implementing a compliance scheme for the recovery of farm plastics waste.
Under the IFFPG scheme, producers apply a levy on the sale of farm plastics that in turn is transferred to the IFFPG for use in funding the collection and recovery of farm plastics waste. In spite of the successful operation of the scheme in recent years, it became apparent this year that the Scheme lacked sufficient resources to satisfy the demand that existed for collections of farm plastics. Therefore, following discussions with the IFFPG, farming organisations and local authorities, last May I announced amendments to the scheme to support improved services to farmers. Under the new arrangements, the scheme is being funded by a combination of the existing levies paid by the producer members of IFFPG who run the scheme and funding from weight based collection charges to be paid by farmers availing of the service. This will improve the operational efficiency of the scheme by incentivising the presentation of clean, dry plastic by farmers. IFFPG estimate that a typical farmer will incur a cost of €50 every second year arising from the introduction of this charge. The effect of the introduction of a charge will be to ensure that supply of collections of farm plastics to farmers can match the demand on an ongoing basis. Collections of film plastic and silage wrap are currently being provided nationwide by the (IFFPG) on this basis.
255 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of occasions upon which directions to local authorities have issued under Section 31(1) of Planning and Development Act 2000; the reason for such directions; if such directions have been complied with in full; the timeframe for such compliance; the consequences of councils not complying with such directions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36016/06]
One direction has been issued to date by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government under section 31(1) of the Planning and Development Act 2000. This was in February 2004 to Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council in relation to the draft Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan covering the period 2004 to 2010. The direction required the Council to amend the draft development plan to ensure that sufficient and suitable land was zoned as residential or for a mix of residential and other uses in order to meet the requirements of the housing strategy. The housing strategy was amended accordingly to address the matter raised in the direction and the County Development Plan 2004-2010 was adopted in March 2004.
The direction recently issued by me to Laois County Council regarding their County Development Plan 2006-2012 was made under Section 31(2) of the Planning and Development Act 2000. The Planning and Development Act 2000 states that a planning authority shall comply with any direction made under Section 31 and that, in exercising any powers conferred on them by the Act, neither the manager nor the elected members shall exercise their powers in conflict with any such direction.
256 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to regulate the planning, provision and operation of seaside caravan and mobile home sites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36044/06]
Caravan parks and mobile home sites require planning permission under the planning code. Any permanent campsites and caravan sites where the number of pitches would be greater than 100 also require an Environmental Impact Statement.
In granting planning permission for these types of development, planning authorities may attach a range of conditions relating to the location and operation of such facilities as is suitable for that particular area. I consider this to be the most appropriate level at which the operation of such facilities should be regulated and have no proposals to introduce further regulations on this matter.
257 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department will provide copies of all records it holds regarding the Castlecomer group water scheme in west Sligo, including details of all communications between his Department and Sligo County Council, the scheme or others and recent representations in which the scheme is mentioned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36078/06]
My Department has received no recent correspondence or representations in relation to this scheme.
