Written Answers.

Litter Pollution.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

12 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the responsibilities of local authorities to keep public places free from litter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36507/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. B. O’Keeffe)

Under the Litter Pollution Acts 1997 to 2003, primary responsibility for developing and implementing responses to litter lies with local authorities. Local authorities are required, so far as is practicable, to ensure that public roads in their functional areas are kept free of litter. They are also required to take all practicable measures for the prevention, control and disposal of litter in their functional areas. Each local authority determines its level of expenditure on individual local services, including anti-litter and clean-up operations.

Since enactment of the 1997 Litter Pollution Act, local authority performance on enforcement of the litter laws has improved significantly, with more litter wardens employed and substantial increases in the number of prosecutions taken and on-the-spot fines issued. The number of litter wardens employed over this period almost trebled to 406 in 2005, and the number of prosecutions increased more than sixfold from 330 to almost 2,200. The number of on-the-spot fines levied increased about eightfold to some 26,600 over the same period.

Under the National Litter Pollution Monitoring System (NLPMS), local authorities carry out surveys to determine the extent and composition of litter pollution in their areas. The data obtained provides a picture of national pollution levels and measures progress in tackling litter pollution. The data is processed and audited by an independent firm. In recent years the trends indicated by the monitoring system are generally positive. The emerging pattern is of a gradual but steady improvement in regard to the extent of litter pollution countrywide. Litter-free areas are increasing and littered areas including litter blackspots are decreasing. Full details of the survey data are available on the website www.litter.ie.

Question No. 13 answered with QuestionNo. 10.

Wildlife Protection.

Joe Callanan

Question:

14 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the dates under the Wildlife Act 1976 when the cutting of hedges is prohibited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36436/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. B. O’Keeffe)

The Wildlife Acts provide generally that it is an offence for a person to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy any vegetation growing in any hedge or ditch during the period from 1 March to 31 August subject to certain exemptions for example, where an issue of public safety is involved.

The purpose of these provisions is to protect bird life during the nesting season, to prevent forest fires, and to protect vegetation and wildlife habitats during the months of growth and reproduction.

Local Authority Funding.

Gerard Murphy

Question:

15 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the way he will fund local government when there will be a requirement by 2010 for additional resources of €1 billion to €2 billion compared to 2004; if existing levels of service provision are to be maintained; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36609/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Review of Local Government Financing by Indecon Economic Consultants estimated, on the basis of different methods of projecting expenditure, that by 2010 local authority expenditure will increase by €1 billion to €2 billion in nominal terms over 2004 levels. Funding this expenditure would be met by a combination of the buoyancy in the existing funding system, some additional funding and the achievement of efficiencies over the period.

As regards the existing funding system, there is significant natural buoyancy in the current revenue sources of local authorities. For example, at local level, the valuation base is growing rapidly as a result of our continued economic growth; in 2006, this valuation base increased by some 10% over 2005. In addition revenue from motor taxation — which is paid directly into the Local Government Fund — continues to increase without any increases in the rates of this taxation; in 2006, motor tax revenues are running at 10% above 2005 levels.

I was in a position to announce record levels of General-Purpose Grants to local authorities from the Fund amounting to some €875m for 2006. Taking account of global valuations, this was an increase of some 8% on the 2005 allocation or2½ times the 1997 level. I will shortly be announcing the general-purpose grant allocations to local authorities for 2007 and I am confident that the levels of funding that will be made available will be adequate to meet ongoing local authority needs.

To supplement the existing income sources, a number of initiatives are being pursued. Measures to combat motor tax evasion are being continued and stepped up. I am also considering ways of bringing planning fees, which are fixed by Regulations, into line with the economic cost of dealing with planning applications.

Additional revenues will be complemented by a range of efficiency initiatives. In partnership with local authorities:

I am developing a standard costing system for the sector to deliver enhanced management information, particularly in relation to unit costs,

I intend to enhance arrangements for local audit committees in line with best practice, and

I will pursue the scope for greater sharing of services between authorities.

I will also continue to ensure that the Value for Money Unit in my Department undertakes in-depth analyses of local authority activities and identifies "best practice". The availability of good information is a key to good decision-making and I have published key financial data on my Department's website.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Denis Naughten

Question:

16 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the grant aid available for group sewerage schemes will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36438/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. B. O’Keeffe)

Under the Rural Water Programme a grant of up to 75% of costs or €2031 per house which ever is lesser, is available from local authorities for the provision of private sewage collection and disposal facilities through group sewerage schemes.

The Law Reform Commission is currently examining legal aspects generally regarding the management of multi-unit structures and a consultation paper is expected to be finalised shortly. Following the consultation period, a final report will be prepared and its recommendations will be considered by the Departments concerned, including the need for any new measures to be taken in this area.

The regulation of managing agents will be among the functions of the new Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA). The authority will licence, regulate and deal with complaints relating to managing agents, which are commercial firms engaged by management companies to carry out day-to-day management and maintenance. The Authority will also have a public information function in relation to property management. Legislation to provide for the establishment of the PSRA and other matters relating to property services is being developed by Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Apartment complex management companies are generally constituted under the Companies Acts and are required to comply with the provisions of company law. It is understood that proposals are being developed by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment for a Company Law Reform and Consolidation Bill which, it is expected, will include certain provisions relating to management companies.

Obligations of property owners in relation to management companies are the subject of private contracts and buyers should obtain adequate legal advice and information when signing contracts. A recent report and booklet published by the National Consumer Agency provides useful consumer information on property management arrangements.

Waste Disposal.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

20 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to introduce a national waiver scheme for waste charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36500/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Waste management services have traditionally been provided at a local level, with individual arrangements being locally determined and tailored to local circumstances. The present legal framework, as determined by the Oireachtas, reflects this. In accordance with section 52 of the Protection of the Environment Act 2003, the determination of waste management charges, and any associated waiver scheme, is a matter for the relevant local authority, where it acts as the service provider. Similarly, where a private operator provides the collection service, it is a matter for that operator to determine charges. However, my Department has asked local authorities to engage with commercial waste collectors to agree on arrangements to assist lower income households by offering alternatives to periodic lump-sum payments.

In August this year, I published a consultation paper on options for future regulation of the waste sector. Submissions were invited on whether there is a need for a regulator for the sector, if so on what model of regulator might be most appropriate and on what powers any such regulator should be given. Among the possible powers discussed in the paper is the power to impose a public service obligation so that services can be provided where they would not otherwise be economically feasible. Following consideration of the submissions received, which is currently underway, I intend to finalise further policy proposals.

Recycling Policy.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

21 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the members of the market development group which was established to identify market opportunities for recycled products; the number of meetings of the group which have been held; when it is intended to publish the group’s market development programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36491/06]

Dan Neville

Question:

78 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take to boost the market for recyclables; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36635/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 78 together.

One of the main barriers to an improved and sustainable recycling performance is the lack of stable and economically attractive markets and outlets for recyclable materials and products manufactured from recycled products. The need for the establishment of a Market Development Group, which would oversee the development of a Market Development Programme, was outlined in the Delivering Change policy statement and the Agreed Programme for Government.

The Market Development Group, established in July 2004, has met on six occasions. The work of the Group is currently focusing on three priority waste streams: paper, plastic and compost. Among the key issues to be addressed are promoting stable demand for recovered materials, supporting the achievement of economies of scale in the production of products made from recycled materials and the need for more recycling infrastructure in Ireland to reduce reliance on overseas markets.

The National Market Development Programme, which the Group is developing, will identify new applications and markets for recyclable material and secondary recycled products. The Group has been asked to identify barriers to the use and marketing of recyclable material and to develop strategies to address these. The Market Development Programme is being finalised at present for publication early in 2007.

The membership of the Group is shown in the table.

Market Development Group
Ms Margaret Daly, Chairperson	Managing Director, Biofine Europe
Mr. Fred McDarby	Enterprise Ireland
Mr. Pat Macken	Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DEHLG)
Mr. Brendan O’Neill	DEHLG
Mr. Margo Monaghan	Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (DETE)
Mr. Donal Buckley	Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC)
Mr. David Manning	IBEC
Mr. Patrick Hayes	National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI)
Dr. John Ryan	Irish Small and Medium Enterprises Association (ISME)
Mr. Tadhg Coakley	Clean Technology Centre, CTC
Dr. Gerry Byrne	Environmental Protection Association, EPA
Mr. Philip O’Neill	County and City Managers Association (CCMA)
Mr. Erik O’Donovan	Irish Waste Management Association (IWMA)
Mr. Fiacra Quinn	Small Firms Association (SFA)
Mr. Ray Gordon	Communications Consultant
Mr. Robert Rowan	Environmental Consultant

Nuclear Plants.

Michael Noonan

Question:

22 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of the Government’s campaign to close Sellafield; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36633/06]

Emmet Stagg

Question:

84 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has devised another strategy for pursuing the MOX case as previously promised in Dáil Éireann. [36449/06]

Jack Wall

Question:

126 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the present position in relation to legal cases been taken against the UK nuclear industry by the Government of Ireland. [36451/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 22, 84 and 126 together.

I refer to the reply to Question No. 56 of 13 June 2006 regarding the European Court of Justice Judgment of May 2006.

Ireland's international legal team, led by the Attorney General, continues to examine this complex judgment with a view to adapting Ireland's strategy in relation to Sellafield. The Irish authorities have also written to the European Commission on 18 October to seek a high level meeting with the Commission which would clarify the elements of the dispute falling within and outside the ECJ's jurisdiction. A response from the Commission is currently awaited.

On the diplomatic front, I will be meeting Mr. Alistair Darling MP, UK Secretary of State at the Department of Trade and Industry in London on 9 January next to voice the continuing concerns of the Irish Government in relation to the operation of the Sellafield Plant. Similarly, I also hope to meet Mr. David Miliband, UK Secretary of State at the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs while I am in London.

This Government will continue to pursue all legal, political and diplomatic options to secure the safe and orderly closure of the Sellafield facility. I consider that the current legal and ongoing diplomatic initiatives by the Irish Government in relation to Sellafield have resulted in increasing recognition by the UK Government and its Departments and Agencies of the depth of Ireland's concerns about Sellafield and of the priority accorded to the issue of Sellafield by the Irish Government.

Register of Electors.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

23 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of the register of electors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36620/06]

Martin Ferris

Question:

63 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount spent on the current campaign to update the electoral register and to encourage unregistered voters to register; and if he is satisfied with progress to date. [36671/06]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

69 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received information from local authorities regarding the review of the electoral register; if such information suggests that there will be a reduction in the number of persons registered to vote; if the local authorities have identified difficulties with the registration process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36512/06]

Gay Mitchell

Question:

94 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the percentage accuracy he believes can be achieved in terms of the electoral register prior to the next general election; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36621/06]

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

116 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he will take to minimise the removal, from the electoral register for 2007, of persons who are normally entitled to vote; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36513/06]

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

117 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the measures taken by his Department to correct the electoral register; and the amount these measures will cost. [36686/06]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

353 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on changing the title of the register of electors to the voters register, in line with most other states in view of the fact that the title currently used is unclear to many people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37031/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 23, 63, 69, 94, 116, 117 and 353 together.

In law, the preparation of the Register of Electors is a matter for each local registration authority. It is their duty to ensure, as far as possible and with the cooperation of the public, the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the Register. Local authorities must publish the draft Register on or before 1 November each year and they must publish the final Register on 1 February.

In April 2006, I announced a package of measures to assist local authorities in their work on preparing the 2007/8 Register, which included the use of Census enumerators or other temporary personnel to support local authorities in preparing the next Register. The CSO contacted Census enumerators seeking expressions of interest in the work; lists of enumerators expressing such an interest in each city and county council area were made available to local authorities. This cleared the way for recruitment and deployment, as appropriate, by local authorities of additional temporary staff for the registration campaign.

In addition, my Department worked with a group of local authority managers and senior officials to put in place an enhanced programme for improving the next Register. Detailed procedures for the carrying out of registration fieldwork were finalised and issued to local authorities in early July. The procedures included provision for ensuring that each household was visited and provided with forms and information at least twice, if necessary. In the event that this process did not satisfactorily register the household, written notification would then be given cautioning of the danger of being omitted from the Register. A person not on the draft register may apply (before 25 November) for inclusion on the final register to be published on 1 February 2007, or may apply for inclusion on the supplement to the register which closes on the fifteenth day before the next polling day.

New supplies of the electoral registration (RFA) forms were distributed to all local authorities in June (significantly earlier than in previous years).

I also committed to providing additional ring-fenced financial resources to support local authorities' own spending in respect of the register campaign and advised authorities that a contribution of some €6 million can be made available in this regard. An initial allocation of some €3 million, based on the number of households in each local authority area, was made available in July to local authorities for registration work.

As regards publicity and awareness, a two-stage approach has been developed, involving information notices followed by an intensive media campaign. Information notices were published in the national press on 19–21 August, urging co-operation with local register campaigns. In addition, a national publicity and awareness campaign involving TV, radio, press and outdoor advertising commenced on 11 September and will run until 25 November (the closing date for submitting corrections to the Draft Register).

An online register search facility is now available through local authority websites and a central website www.checktheregister.ie is also now available, containing direct links to each local authority’s eReg enquiry screen, to facilitate people in checking that they are on the Draft Register.

New arrangements for the deletion of names of deceased persons from the Register are now in place: the new system allows for the efficient and timely deletion of the names of deceased persons from the Register using the Death Event Publication Service which has been developed by Reach in association with the General Register Office.

New guidance for local authorities on Preparing and Maintaining the Register of Electors was made available to authorities in electronic format on 31 May. Printed copies of the guidance were subsequently sent to all local authorities, returning officers and relevant Government Departments. In the final version of the guidance, the importance of local authorities cross-checking the Register with other databases available to them is stressed.

It is internationally acknowledged that electoral registration presents particular difficulties and challenges for electoral authorities. I am satisfied that local authorities have carried out the most extensive registration campaign in decades for the Draft Register 2007/8. My Department is currently compiling summary data from local authorities in this regard. While the complete data are awaited, initial indications are that there has been extensive activity with both significant additions to, and deletions from, the Register.

I have no proposals to change the title of the Register at this stage.

Election Management System.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

24 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the members of the Cabinet committee on electronic voting; the number of meetings of the committee which have been held to date; the date of the last meeting of the committee; when the committee intends to report to the Government; if it has appointed a peer review group for electronic voting; the members of such group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36484/06]

Seymour Crawford

Question:

31 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will outline the progress to date in implementing the recommendations of the Commission on Electronic Voting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36602/06]

John Perry

Question:

34 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason the Commission on Electronic Voting was not asked to continue the testing it identified as essential to hardware and software for the electronic voting machines before it was dissolved in September 2006; if the commission expressed views on who should do this further testing before its dissolution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36647/06]

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

52 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the next election or referendum at which it is intended to use the Nedap Power vote electronic voting system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36485/06]

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

62 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has undertaken a capital appraisal of the proposal to centralise the storage of electronic voting machines; the result of such appraisal; if he will publish same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36640/06]

Pat Breen

Question:

104 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the views the Department of Defence submitted to him in relation to the central storage of electronic voting machines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36604/06]

Pat Breen

Question:

122 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the person carrying out further work on the hardware and software for electronic voting, in view of the fact that the Commission on Electronic Voting has been wound up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36603/06]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

359 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cost to date of the e-voting technology including the cost of promoting its use, storage and research, with a breakdown of costings in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37053/06]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

360 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the various tests carried out here and in the Netherlands on the e-voting systems proposed by his Department; if he intends to continue to store and promote such technology and for what purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37054/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 24, 31, 34, 52, 62, 104, 122, 359 and 360 together.

The Commission on Electronic Voting concluded in its Second Report on the Secrecy, Accuracy and Testing of the Chosen Electronic Voting System, which was published on 4 July 2006, that it can recommend the voting and counting equipment for use at elections in Ireland, subject to further work it has recommended. The Commission made it clear that many of its recommendations involve only relatively minor modifications or additions to the system.

While the software of the voting machine was considered by the Commission to be of adequate quality requiring only minor modifications and further analysis to confirm its reliability, it was unable to recommend the election management software. In the context of its comparison of the electronic and manual voting systems, the Commission concluded that, subject to its recommendations being implemented, the chosen system has the potential to deliver greater accuracy than the paper system and can provide similarly high levels of secrecy.

In response to the report, the Government has established a Cabinet Committee on Electronic Voting, which I chair, to consider the report in detail; report to the Government on the full implications of the Commission recommendations; consider the composition of a peer review group — drawn from international electoral reform bodies and the IT industry — to supervise any software redesign work; report to the Government on confidence building measures; and identify any other improvements that might be built into the system.

The Cabinet Committee, which also includes the Tánaiste and the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, met on 31 July 2006. Its work is underway and it will meet again in the near future. The issue of a peer review group will be considered by the Committee at the appropriate stage of its deliberations. The Committee will report to Government when its work is completed.

The timing of the further use of the system is dependent on the ongoing work of the Cabinet Committee, the associated decisions arising in this regard, and the dates at which future polls may be held.

Section 22 of the Electoral (Amendment) Act 2004 provides that the Commission shall stand dissolved on the expiration of 2 months from the presentation by the Commission of the last of its reports; this expiration period concluded 4 September 2006.

On the question of further testing, recommendations 18 to 21 of the Second Report refer to the need for testing of the system by a body duly qualified and accredited following any modifications that may be decided upon. These and all other recommendations of the Commission will be taken into account in the work of the Cabinet Committee. I am aware of the testing of the system to date here and elsewhere, and fully accept the need for appropriate further testing of the system prior to use.

The Government decision to proceed with the movement of the electronic voting equipment to centralised premises was made taking into account a range of factors, including costs of current and centralised arrangements and the likely benefits to be realised. In this regard, the Commission in its Second Report concluded that, as the current arrangements under which voting equipment is stored at 25 locations are likely to give rise to continuing variations in the implementation of security and related control measures, together with replication of similar costs of implementation of these measures which are not insignificant across individual centres, enhanced and more uniform security and greater economy of security costs could be achieved through the rationalisation of storage on a regional or centralised basis.

In taking forward the decision to centralise storage of the electronic voting machines, the Department of Defence advised my Department of the availability of a hangar at Gormanston Aerodrome, Co. Meath, which can accommodate the majority of the electronic voting machines.

The total cost incurred to date in the development and roll-out of the electronic voting and counting system is €51.3 million (including €2.6 million in respect of awareness and education initiatives and €0.73 million for work by consultants on assessment/testing of the system). In addition, information provided by returning officers to my Department indicates that the annual storage costs for the electronic voting machines and ancillary equipment is currently some €705,000.

Question No. 25 answered with QuestionNo. 11.

Planning Issues.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

26 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, regarding the relevant provisions of the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006 which will enable local authorities to refuse planning permissions to developers with a poor history of development, he will establish a central database containing information on such developers to ensure that all local authorities have access to a comprehensive list of persons to whom they may refuse permission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36442/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Section 9 of the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006 amends section 35 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 to enable the planning authority to refuse permission to a developer who has been in substantial non-compliance with a previous planning permission. The applicant will have to apply to the High Court if he or she wishes to have the decision overturned. This reverses the previous position, whereby a planning authority wishing to refuse permission in such a case was required to first obtain the authorisation of the High Court. It is intended to assist any planning authority in dealing a developer who has persistently failed to comply with the requirements of that authority.

Each planning authority has primary responsibility for dealing with applications for permission and planning enforcement within its own area. The section therefore does not enable a planning authority to rely on information supplied by others, or from a centrally maintained list, when deciding whether to grant or refuse permission in any particular case.

Abolition of Dual Mandate.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

Dan Neville

Question:

30 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of fines issued for litter offences in 2005 and to date in 2006; the average fine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36636/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Article 9 of European Parliament and Council Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste provides that packaging may not be placed on the market within the European Union unless it satisfies the provisions of the Directive. Annex II of the Directive explicitly provides that packaging shall be designed, produced and placed on the market in such a way as to permit its reuse or recovery, including recycling and composting.

Under article 18 of the Directive, Member States are prohibited from impeding the placing on the market of packaging which satisfies these essential requirements. The essential requirements of packaging are transposed into national law under the combined provisions of article 24 and the Third Schedule of the Waste Management (Packaging) Regulations 2003, as amended, which provides that a person may not supply packaging or packaged products to the Irish market unless the packaging concerned complies with essential requirements as to its nature and composition.

The regulations impose obligations in relation to the recycling of backdoor waste on all producers participating in the placing of packaging on the Irish market. In addition, major producers i.e. those who have an annual turnover in excess of €1 million and who place more than 25 tonnes of packaging on the Irish market, have additional responsibilities with regard to the recovery of packaging waste from their customers. Major producers are required to take steps individually to recover their packaging waste (i.e. self-compliance) or alternatively to contribute to, and participate in, compliance schemes set up to recover packaging waste.

Repak Limited was established by Irish industry in 1997 to promote, co-ordinate and finance the collection and recovery of packaging waste with a view to achieving Ireland's packaging waste recovery and recycling targets under the Directive and is the only such approved compliance scheme in Ireland. Repak membership income is used to subsidise the collection of packaging waste from both the household and commercial sectors.

While Repak's primary role is to support the recycling of packaging waste, the fee structure applicable to its members — which is related to the type and amount of packaging placed on the market — reflects the polluter pays principle and directly incentivises the minimisation and reuse of packaging by producers. In addition, article 4(5) of the regulations expressly provides that account shall not be taken of packaging destined for reuse for the purpose of determining whether or not a producer is a major producer — this similarly provides a direct incentive for producers to introduce systems to promote the reuse of packaging.

Ireland has enjoyed considerable success in recent years in meeting targets for the recovery and recycling of this significant waste stream. Data from the Environmental Protection Agency shows that the 25% target for 2001 set under Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste was achieved and also that, with 56% recovery of packaging waste in 2004, Ireland has exceeded the 2005 recovery target of 50% set under the Directive.

The National Strategy Group on Packaging Waste Recycling, established in 2004, is currently developing a six-year strategy to achieve new higher targets for recovering and recycling packaging waste. I have made it clear that prevention and minimisation measures will be a central element of that strategy. The strategy will be published early next year.

Planning Issues.

Ivor Callely

Question:

36 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the measures in place and under consideration to help improve the quality of life for people residing in the greater Dublin area, particularly the northside; the progress made for more integrated approach to planning, housing supply and development, transport, health and social services and other such key infrastructure provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36440/06]

Séamus Pattison

Question:

44 Mr. Pattison asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will review planning legislation and guidelines to ensure that adequate facilities and infrastructure are always included in residential development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36520/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 36 and 44 together.

Establishing sustainable communities with a good quality of life is a key objective for my Department, and is being pursued through a range of policies and measures, which complement other Departments' and agencies' programmes.

The Planning and Development Act 2000 which sets the legislative framework for the planning system requires that a development plan set out an overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of an area. Section 10(2)(d) of the Act specifies that the development plan shall include objectives zoning of land provision of infrastructure and for the integration of planning with the social, community and cultural requirements of the area and its population. Under the provisions of Section 11(3)(c), planning authorities are required to be pro-active in consulting service and infrastructure providers, including education, to ascertain their long-term plans and needs for the provision of services in the area.

To assist planning authorities in formulating and implementing such plans, my Department is finalising Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Development Plans, following an extensive public consultation process. These guidelines emphasise the importance within such plans of creating a clear strategic framework for the proper planning and sustainable development of the relevant area.

In addition, Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Residential Density which were published in 1999 and are now in the process of being reviewed and updated, set out the basis on which locations appropriate for higher residential densities may be identified, the range of varying densities appropriate to different locations and the controls and safeguards to be addressed in promoting such development. The new guidelines are being expanded to take account of changing population and settlement patterns and the extensive experience built up since the introduction of the 1999 guidelines in the design, assessment and development of higher density proposals.

Furthermore, the policy document, Housing Policy Framework: Building Sustainable Communities, was approved by the Government and published in December 2005. This sets out an agenda for an integrated package of housing policy initiatives, including supporting higher densities and compact urban settlement through quality design in the creation of new homes, new urban spaces and new neighbourhoods.

My Department has and will continue to consult and co-operate with other relevant Departments and planning authorities to ensure that the planning process facilitates the strategic provision of key supporting facilities and services that support sustainable communities.

I am satisfied that the existing planning legislation, particularly in relation to development plans and local area plans, and supporting guidance sufficiently underpin this policy approach.

Local Authority Housing.

Phil Hogan

Question:

37 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will ensure that all councils will review details of the rural cottage tenant purchase scheme to ensure no overcharging occurred as happened in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36599/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

Tenant purchase schemes are administered by local authorities as part of their overall housing management functions, having regard to the relevant legislation, regulations and the schemes adopted by individual local authorities. My Department has no function in relation to the administration of schemes at local level.

Circular 7/2005 of 28 November 2005 requested local authorities to review their tenant purchase schemes to ensure that the requirements of the Housing (Sale of Houses) Regulations 1995 in regard to the sale of rural cottages are being fully applied.

My Department will continue to remind local authorities of their responsibilities on various issues relating to tenant purchase schemes as considered necessary.

EU Directives.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

38 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to a complaint made to the EU Commission regarding the transposition of the WEEE Directive 2002.96/EC into Irish Law; if he has received communication from the Commission regarding the complaint; the content of such communication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36508/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

My Department has not been notified by the EU Commission in connection with any complaints that may have been submitted to the Commission regarding the transposition of EU Directive 2002/96/EC on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) into Irish Law.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

39 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is satisfied that only 600 voluntary housing units were completed in the first half of 2006, even though the Government committed to reaching an annual total of 4000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36623/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

At end June 2006, 601 units of voluntary housing accommodation were completed with a further 2131 in progress. This compares with 548 units completed with a further 2016 in progress for the same period in 2005.

The voluntary and co-operative housing sector has an important contribution to make in the provision of social housing. By working in close partnership with local authorities, it plays a significant role in supplementing the efforts of local authorities in providing social housing in areas where particular housing needs have been identified. It is supported by my Department through two separate funding schemes, the Capital Assistance Scheme and the Capital Loan and Subsidy Scheme.

The Government are fully committed to developing and expanding the voluntary and co-operative housing sector by supplying the necessary financial resources and support to enable it to become an important and significant provider and force in the housing area. To this end, provision of funding for the schemes has been increased significantly from €56 million in 1999 to €243 million in 2006.

The main strategy for delivery of the Governments social and affordable housing programme is through the local authority 5-year Action Plans for social and affordable housing. The Action Plans, now at their midway stage are currently being reviewed. The reviews are focussing on examining how targets have been met in the first two years of the plan and on incorporating any adjustments required for the remaining years of the plan, in light of outcomes including expected 2006 outputs, and the results of the recent Housing Needs Assessment.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Joe Callanan

Question:

40 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of the Kiltormer sewerage scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36437/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Kiltormer Sewerage Scheme has been ranked as twenty second priority by Galway County Council in the list of sewerage schemes submitted by the Council in response to my Department's request to local authorities earlier this year to undertake fresh assessments of the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments.

The priorities adopted by local councillors in their assessments will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of my Department's Water Services Investment Programme.

Local Authority Housing.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

41 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce a pilot scheme for tenant purchase by tenants of voluntary and co-operative housing bodies; the details of such a scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36506/06]

Catherine Murphy

Question:

337 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if tenant purchase can take place in relation to cooperative housing schemes; if so, the guidance that has been given to local authorities on the matter; when such a scheme is expected to be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36816/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 41 and 337 together.

There is no provision at present in the voluntary housing schemes for the purchase of individual houses by tenants. However, it was provided under Housing Policy Framework — Building Sustainable Communities that consideration would be given in consultation with the voluntary and co-operative sector, to pilot a tenant purchase scheme for some new voluntary homes under the scheme. The timing and modalities of such a scheme, including any legislative element, will be developed in the coming months.

Question No. 42 answered with QuestionNo. 9.

Joan Burton

Question:

43 Ms Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the housing authorities where the rental accommodation scheme is operating; the number of tenants who are in RAS accommodation; the number of such tenants who have been transferred to RAS from either local authority or voluntary or co-operative housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36497/06]

Damien English

Question:

67 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount his Department allocated to the rental accommodation scheme for 2005 and 2006; the amount spent in 2005 and to date in 2006; the problems associated with the scheme on a county basis; if he will make changes to the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36645/06]

David Stanton

Question:

72 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of households transferred or allocated local authority housing to date under the rental accommodation scheme; if he is satisfied that the targets originally set for the scheme in 2004 are being met; the cost incurred in operation of the scheme to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36722/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 43, 67 and 72 together.

The Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) is designed to cater for the accommodation needs of persons in receipt of rent supplement who have a long-term housing need. It is a collaborative project between my Department, local authorities, the Department of Social and Family Affairs and the Health Service Executive.

RAS operates in all housing authority areas. In some cases the County Council is managing the scheme for the County at large. Nearly all housing authorities are now mobilised and most have begun to transfer cases.

Good progress has been made in implementing RAS. To date over 12,000 cases [nearly 40% of the target group of recipients on rent supplement for more than 18 months] have been reviewed by local authorities for transfer to RAS, some 2,000 cases have actually been transferred to RAS accommodation (approx 25% to private rented sector accommodation and 75% within voluntary & co-operative sector) and an additional 1,500 rent supplement households have also been allocated local authority housing.

The amount spent to date on the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) is of the order of €4.122 million. The breakdown is €164,836 in 2004, €723,280 in 2005, mainly on administrative and start up costs, and €3,234,000 to date in 2006. This funding is in addition to, and separate from, the ongoing capital funding provided to local authorities for the construction of new social housing units and the support of the voluntary and co-operative housing sector.

The RAS initiative is a major new direction for housing authorities and is being carefully monitored. Recent reports from the local authority based Programme Managers on their respective counties have indicated that the transfer of households from rent supplement to RAS is accelerating as authorities are overcoming difficulties they were encountering during initial stages. These problems mainly related to issues such as the unwillingness of some landlords to join RAS, poor quality of some private rented accommodation, tenancies not being registered with the PRTB, households living in overcrowded accommodation conditions and shortages of supply of particular types of accommodation in some areas.

I am satisfied at this early stage that RAS is meeting the objectives set for it by Government in July 2004. It has progressed from piloting to full local authority mobilisation and while the rate of transfer of households from rent supplement to the RAS had been slower than originally expected I am satisfied that good progress is being made on speeding up the transfer of cases and expect to see an acceleration of the rate of transfers to RAS of greater numbers of eligible households. In the future RAS will take a pivotal role in providing local authorities with solutions to a range of accommodation demands and will provide fresh options for local authorities to extend the range of social housing supports.

Question No. 44 answered with QuestionNo. 36.

Nuclear Safety.

Jack Wall

Question:

45 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the distribution of his Department’s leaflet Safeguarding Ireland from Nuclear Accidents to all households in the State. [36450/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 160 of 4 October 2006. The position is unchanged.

National Disability Strategy.

Tom Hayes

Question:

46 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make a comprehensive statement on meeting the disability requirements of his Department, local authorities and State agencies for which his Department is responsible; the moneys allocated for each year since 2000 and the money spent in each financial year to date in 2006; the problems which may have arisen and with which agency or body; the strategy to resolve these; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36649/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

As required under the Disability Act 2005, my Department's sectoral plan was approved by the Houses of the Oireachtas on 18 October 2006. The plan, covering my Department, its partner bodies and local authorities, sets out national objectives and guidelines for access to public buildings, services, amenities, and information, as well as to heritage sites and other facilities. The plan provides for a range of positive measures, including improvements to Part M of the Building Regulations, the introduction of a new Disability Access Certificate and the development of a Housing Strategy for people with disabilities. The implementation of these measures will promote and pro-actively encourage equal opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate in the economic, social and cultural life of the community.

There are many major spending programmes and schemes funded by my Department, for example in the areas of housing, non-national roads, libraries and urban and village renewal, which are used to provide facilities for and services for people with disabilities as well as for other groups in the community. Such spending can not be readily disaggregated.

I have provided €18 million in 2006 to help my Department, local authorities and bodies under the aegis of my Department to implement the National Disability Strategy. This forms part of a cross-Departmental multi-annual funding programme, introduced in mid-2005, which will continue until 2009. The information requested in respect of the National Disability Strategy funding is set out in the tabular statement. My Department is working closely with its partner bodies and local authorities to optimise the gains made from this expenditure and to deal with issues as they arise.

The tabular statement also gives details of the combined capital allocation for disabled persons and essential repairs grants notified to local authorities in each year from 2000 to 2006 and the combined expenditure on those schemes and on works of adaptation to local authority rented dwellings for a disabled member of the household from 2000 to 2005. Data in relation to 2006 expenditure will be published in the Annual Housing Statistic Bulletin early in 2007. Expenditure on the grant schemes is funded by the two-thirds recoupment available from my Department together with the one-third contribution from the resources of the local authority.

The review of the Disabled Persons Grant scheme, which incorporates the conditions governing the Essential Repairs Grant scheme and the Special Housing Aid for the Elderly Scheme, was recently finalised within my Department. Proposals for the future operation of the schemes are now being prepared by my Department, in consultation with other public agencies concerned, and I expect to be in a position to announce these shortly.

Year	Disabled Person’s and Essential Repairs Grant Schemes Allocation	Disabled Person’s and Essential Repairs Grant Schemes Expenditure	National Disability Strategy Allocation	National Disability Strategy Expenditure
2000	42,180,699	32,809,299	n/a	n/a
2001	58,357,162	50,713,544	n/a	n/a
2002	74,868,000	68,697,556	n/a	n/a
2003	58,001,000	63,783,942	n/a	n/a
2004	73,105,132	55,399,536	n/a	n/a
2005	74,500,000	64,643,589	15,000,000	10,568,049*
2006	65,050,000	n/a	18,005,000	2,620,681

*3 million capital funding was carried over from 2005 to the 2006 allocation.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Richard Bruton

Question:

47 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the further steps to be taken specifically in the coming months to help Ireland meet its Kyoto obligations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36618/06]

Dinny McGinley

Question:

53 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the comments by the European Commission that Ireland will be 16% off its obligations under the Kyoto Protocol by 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36616/06]

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

85 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he intends to publish a revised climate change strategy; if he will confirm recent reports that Ireland will exceed its Kyoto target by 16 percentage points; his plans to address this overshoot; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36504/06]

Richard Bruton

Question:

89 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on whether the European Environment Agency which published projections showing that Ireland is one of seven EU member states which are not on track to meet their Kyoto targets for curbing CO2 emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36617/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 47, 53, 85 and 89 together.

I refer to the reply to Question Nos. 4 and 5 on today's Order Paper.

Housing Policy.

Joe Costello

Question:

48 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the MakeRoom campaign which was recently launched by the four housing non-governmental organisations; his views on the objectives of the campaign; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36498/06]

Simon Coveney

Question:

49 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when homelessness will be eliminated in this State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36611/06]

Bernard Allen

Question:

60 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his response to the MakeRoom campaign to end homelessness by 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36607/06]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

103 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the measures he will implement to meet Government targets of eradicating homelessness by 2010. [36674/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 48, 49, 60 and 103 together.

I have noted the recent launch of the MakeRoom campaign by Focus Ireland, the Simon Communities of Ireland, the Society of St Vincent de Paul and Threshold. The stated aim of the MakeRoom campaign is to end homelessness by 2010 and in this context indicates this to mean "nobody will sleep rough; nobody will stay in emergency accommodation for longer than is absolutely necessary and nobody will become homeless because of a lack of appropriate services".

The social partnership agreement Towards 2016 contains a commitment to the elimination of the long-term occupancy of emergency homeless accommodation by 2010. This is well aligned with the goals of the MakeRoom campaign. It should also be noted that the Homeless Agency, which is the partnership body which coordinates homeless services in Dublin, has already defined as its overarching goal the elimination of long-term homelessness and the need to sleep rough in Dublin by 2010.

The Independent Review of Implementation of Homeless Strategies, published earlier this year, examined the implementation of the Government's Integrated and Preventative Homeless Strategies and concluded that they should be amalgamated and updated. The Government have accepted the broad thrust of the recommendations of the Review and work is underway on the preparation of a revised and updated Strategy on Homelessness. As part of this process, a National Homeless Consultative Committee, including representatives from homeless service providers, will be established to provide input into the development of the revised homeless strategy and ongoing government policy on addressing homelessness.

Very significant resources are being made available to address the issue of homelessness at national level in a comprehensive and co-ordinated manner. Since 2000, the Government through my Department and the Department of Health & Children, have provided almost €450 million in capital and current funding nationally for the provision of accommodation and care related services for homeless persons.

There is now a wide range of accommodation and services across the country — from emergency hostels, transitional accommodation programmes to outreach and resettlement services and long term supported accommodation. A key task is to assist homeless persons who can live independently into mainstream long-term accommodation as soon as possible. This will involve the refocusing of efforts on the provision of accommodation in the social, voluntary and private rented housing sectors. The Rental Accommodation Scheme has significant potential in this area. This increased supply, together with appropriate outreach and resettlement support is essential in assisting people out of homelessness altogether.

Waste Disposal.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

50 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of all wastes, construction and demolition waste and municipal or household waste going to landfill for each year since 1998 to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36490/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Since 1995 national waste statistics in respect of all waste streams have been published at three-yearly intervals by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with the most recent National Waste Report being in respect of 2004. Between 2001 and 2004, two interim database reports were published to provide data on municipal waste specifically (i.e. household and commercial waste) for the years 2002 and 2003 respectively. It is my understanding that since the publication of the National Waste Report 2004, a full report will now be published every second year with an interim report (due shortly in respect of 2005) in the intervening year.

The table sets out the position in relation to the amount of the wastes specified in the Question that have been landfilled in each of the respective years since 1998 for which data is available.

	1998	2001	2002	2003	2004
Municipal Waste	1,685,766	1,992,050	1,901,864	1,832,625	1,818,536
Household Waste	1,125,698	1,254,857	1,294,061	1,231,109	1,214,908
Construction & Demolition (C&D) Waste*	1,533,386	1,250,297	N/A	N/A	N/A

* These figures relate to the amounts of C&D waste disposed of to landfill.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Willie Penrose

Question:

51 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of moneys given by developers to local authorities in lieu of the provision of housing units under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts since 2001 to date in 2006; his plans for the use of these moneys; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36492/06]

Mary Upton

Question:

77 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the moneys collected to date by each local authority under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000; the acreage of land received by each local authority under Part V of the Act; the amount of funding spent by each local authority in the provision of social and affordable housing; the amount of the land received which has been used by each local authority to build social and affordable housing; the number of houses built by each local authority under Part V to date; and the number of houses built in each local authority area since the enactment of the Planning and Development Act 2000. [36517/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 51 and 77 together.

Information to end June 2006 on activity, including under Part V, in each local authority area is on my Department's website at www.environ.ie. Information is also published in my Department’s Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library. Total house completions on a county/city council basis up to end September 2006 are also available on my Department’s website.

The legislation provides that any Part V monies accumulated by a planning authority should be lodged to a separate account, which should only be used by the authority as capital for its functions under Part V or as capital by a housing authority for its functions in relation to the provision of housing under the Housing Acts 1966 to 2002.

Question No. 52 answered with QuestionNo. 24.

Question No. 53 answered with QuestionNo. 47.

Building Regulations.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

54 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to terminate the use of nine inch hollow blocks in residential construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36487/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Building Regulations lay down performance-based standards, and do not either mandate or prohibit the use of specific construction products or systems. Various competing products or systems demonstrating compliance with the regulations may lawfully be used; and the choice is left to the designers, builders and the market.

The broadly based Building Regulations Advisory Body (BRAB) commissioned an independent report by the Energy Research Group UCD to examine the impact of proposed higher thermal performance standards under Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Energy) of the Building Regulations on commonly used forms of house building — single leaf (hollow concrete block), twin leaf (solid concrete block), and timber frame.

The Energy Research Group Report was published in November 2000 and concluded that 9" hollow blocks could be insulated to comply with the proposed higher thermal insulation standards. Following a public consultation process, the relevant amending Part L Regulations were made in 2002.

The Part L energy performance standards for the construction and reconstruction of buildings have been progressively increased since they were first introduced in 1992 — in 1998, in 2003 (dwellings) and 2006 (non-domestic buildings). The next revision of the Part L standards for dwellings will take place no later than 2008.

Local Authority Services.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

55 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he expects the next report on the 42 national service indicators for local authorities; his plans to review those indicators; the arrangements that will be made to involve consumers of local authority services in the review of the indicators; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36511/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The next report on local authority service indicators, which will be in respect of 2006, is due to be published by the Local Government Management Services Board (LGMSB) in July 2007. The first two such reports were published in mid 2005 and 2006 respectively, and copies are available in the Oireachtas library.

I have asked the Local Government Customer Services Group, which drew up the current set of indicators, to carry out a review. The group is representative of my Department, local authorities (at both elected member and official levels) the LGMSB, the Local Government Computer Services Board and the Institute of Public Administration. Extensive consultations are being carried out as part of the review, including with local authorities, the Irish Business and Employers Confederation and Chambers Ireland. Local authorities have also been asked to take account of their customers' perspectives, when providing input to the review. In addition the Independent Assessment panel, which I established to quality assure the service indicators, is being consulted. I am satisfied that the Customer Services Group is consulting widely on the review and I am looking forward to receiving their recommendations in due course. It is envisaged that amendments to the indicators arising from the review will apply from 2008 on.

Election Management System.

Liz McManus

Question:

56 Ms McManus asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the date on which he sought the Attorney General’s advice regarding the implications of the preliminary 2006 census figures for the revision of Dáil Éireann constituencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36489/06]

Liz McManus

Question:

101 Ms McManus asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the correspondence he has received relating to constituency boundaries, arising from the publication of the preliminary 2006 census figures; if he has enquired from the Central Statistics Office as to when the final census figures will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36488/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 101 together.

Following the publication by the Central Statistics Office of the Preliminary Report on Census 2006, I sought the advice of the Attorney General on 21 July 2006 in relation to census results and constituency boundaries. The Attorney subsequently advised that constituencies can only be revised on the basis of the final Census figures. My Department also received a limited amount of other correspondence associated with this process and more generally on the issue concerned.

The publication of the final Census 2006 figures is a matter for the Central Statistics Office.

Recycling Policy.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

57 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to increase the number of recycling bring centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36628/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The determination of waste management infrastructure requirements is a matter for local authorities in the context of the regional waste management plans for which they have statutory responsibility under the Waste Management Acts. My Department operates a capital grants scheme in support of certain recycling infrastructure and it is a matter for the local authorities concerned to seek such funding in respect of particular facilities in response to the periodic call for such proposals.

Local Authority Housing.

Enda Kenny

Question:

58 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce a new tenant purchase scheme for local authority tenants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36642/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

My Department is currently preparing proposals for the legislation required to give effect to the commitment in the Housing Policy Framework: Building Sustainable Communities to introduce a new tenant purchase scheme that will allow for the sale of local authority apartments to tenants under certain conditions. We are working to progress this draft legislation as quickly as possible.

Local Authority Staff.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

59 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of the review of the code of ethics of local authority employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36625/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Code of Conduct for Local Authority Employees was published in June 2004 under Part 15 of the Local Government Act 2001. Arising from a review of the Code and following consultations with the Standards in Public Office Commission, the Minister for Finance and staff interests, I recently amended Section 10 of the Code.

Under the amendment, local authority employees must inform the appropriate authority before taking up employment outside the sector where the possibility of a conflict of interest may exist. Employees below Director of Services must inform the relevant County or City Manager. Employees at or above Director of Services level will be required to inform the proposed Outside Appointments Board for the Local Government Sector before taking up such employment.

Also, employees to whom Part 15 (Ethical Framework) of the Local Government Act 2001 applies, or applied at any time during the six month period prior to their retirement or resignation, must obtain the consent of the relevant County or City Manager, or the Outside Appointments Board for the Local Government Sector as appropriate if, within twelve months of resignation or retirement, they intend to accept an offer of employment or consultancy engagement the nature and terms of which could lead to a conflict of interest.

I intend to appoint the Outside Appointments Board for the Local Government Sector shortly. The Board will comprise the Secretary General of my Department, a former County or City Manager and three other members who are not serving or former public servants one of whom will act as Chairperson.

The amendment made to Section 10 brings the local authority Code of Conduct into line with the provisions that currently apply to civil servants in regard to external employment.

Question No. 60 answered with QuestionNo. 48.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

61 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he plans on continuing the use of the rental accommodation scheme as a long-term option to house people who should be housed in social housing units. [36673/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 317 of 4 October 2006. The position is unchanged.

Question No. 62 answered with QuestionNo. 24.

Question No. 63 answered with QuestionNo. 23.

Decentralisation Programme.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

64 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of his Department’s decentralisation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36624/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Under the Government's decentralisation programme all Dublin based operations of my Department are being decentralised, with the exception of Met Éireann, ENFO, the Private Rented Tenancies Board and a small co-ordination section which it is proposed to retain in Dublin to assist with the Department's Dáil and other business. The programme involves the relocation of my Department's operations to four locations in the South East: Wexford, Waterford, New Ross and Kilkenny.

Implementation plans, setting out the issues to be addressed in implementing the Decentralisation Programme for this Department, have been submitted to the Decentralisation Implementation Group. These plans are also published on my Department's website at www.environ.ie

At this stage a total of 226 staff, in respect of 661 posts to be decentralised and which are fillable through the CAF, have confirmed their availability to decentralise to the South East. 120 of these are now serving in my Department and the process of agreeing arrangements for the early transfer of the others to the Department has commenced.

As outlined in the most recent Progress Report (September 2006) from the Decentralisation Implementation Group, the indicative timescales for the completion of the Departments offices in Wexford, Kilkenny, New Ross and Waterford are Quarter 3 2008, End 2008, Quarter 4 2009 and Quarter 3 2010 respectively. The Office of Public Works are currently assessing tenders for the construction of the Department's Headquarters in Wexford.

Nuclear Safety.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

65 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on his recent meeting with the UK Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, Mr. Alistair Darling, with specific reference to the Irish State’s concerns regarding the outcome of the UK energy review. [36448/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

In my reply to Questions Nos. 194 and 217 of 4 October 2006, I said I would shortly be meeting the UK Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, Mr. Alistair Darling regarding the Irish Government's concerns about the outcome of the UK Energy Review. This meeting is due to take place on 9 January 2007.

As I also stated in my reply to those two Questions, Ireland's concerns about any proposals by the UK to develop new nuclear capacity and the impact of UK nuclear policy decisions on the continued operation of the Sellafield reprocessing facility have been consistently made known to the UK administration at Prime Minister, Ministerial and official level and by way of input to the consultation process undertaken by the UK as part of its Energy Review.

EU Directives.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

66 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the parts of the Aarhus Convention Agreement and its associated EU Directives 2003/4/EC and 2003/35/EC which have been ratified or transposed into Irish law to date; if he will set out for each part of the Aarhus Convention Agreement and its associated EU Directives 2003/4/EC and 2003/35/EC which have been ratified or transposed into Irish law, the date on which this occurred; the legislative instrument used to do same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36515/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Ireland signed the Aarhus Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-Making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters on 25 June 1998. Progress towards ratification of the Convention is closely aligned with work at EU level. To date, the European Union has adopted two Directives as part of the ratification process for the Convention. These deal with public access to environmental information (2003/4/EC) and public participation in certain environmental decision-making procedures (2003/35/EC). Ratification of the Convention will take place after these Directives have been transposed into Irish Law.

Work is continuing in my Department with regard to the transposition of these two Directives and will be completed as soon as possible. When the above work on transposition is completed, the instrument of ratification of the Aarhus Convention will be laid before the Dáil in accordance with the requirements of the Constitution.

Question No. 67 answered with QuestionNo. 43.

Local Government Act 2001.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

68 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the sections of the Local Government Act 2001 that have not been enacted; and the reasons for failing to enact those sections. [36690/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Local Government Act 2001 modernises the legislative framework for local government, supports community involvement with local authorities in a more participative local democracy and underpins generally the programme of local government renewal. The Act is being brought into operation on a phased basis and 213 of its 247 sections have so far been commenced. The following table identifies the remaining 34 sections.

I am currently considering the steps necessary to commence the remaining provisions, a number of which are enabling provisions which will replace legislation currently in force.

Provisions of the Local Government Act 2001 not commenced
Sections	Provision
22	Alteration of number of members of local authority
23	Local electoral areas
55 – 62	Local authority boundary alteration
89 – 95	Local Government Commission
185 – 187	Establishment of new town councils, etc.
188 – 196	Changing of names of areas and display of names of streets, etc.
212 – 214	Public local inquiries
223	Electoral divisions
230	Joint burial boards

Question No. 69 answered with QuestionNo. 23.

Environmental Policy.

Tom Hayes

Question:

70 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number and details of all cases where environmental infringement proceedings are being taken by the EU Commission against Ireland; the various stages of the legal process to date; the cost to the State of each case to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36650/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The European Commission is currently in correspondence with my Department in respect of 35 cases relating to possible infringements of EU environmental legislation for which my Department is responsible. This compares to 53 such cases at the end of October 2005. This considerable improvement illustrates the positive outcomes from my intensive efforts to resolve issues in dialogue with the Commission and stakeholders. The cases, which relate to a number of Directives, are at various stages of proceedings as set out in the table.

My Department has not had to deal with any costs arising from cases as referred to in the Question. The Office of the Attorney General and the Chief State Solicitor's Office provide the legal service to the State in the conduct of European Court of Justice litigation. Legal fees arising are therefore a matter for those offices.

Directive Number and General Reference	Article 226 Letter of Formal Notice	Article 226 Reasoned Opinion	Being Referred to the European Court of Justice	Before the European Court of Justice for a hearing or awaiting judgment	European Court of Justice Decision to be Implemented	Article 228 Letter of Formal Notice	Article 228 Reasoned Opinion
2004/ 26/EC on emission of gaseous and particulate pollutants from internal combustion engines to be installed in non-road mobile machinery	0	0	1	0	0	0	0
2002/88/EC relating to measures against the emission of gaseous and particulate pollutants from internal combustion engines to be installed in non-road mobile machinery	0	0	1	0	0	0	0
2004/42/CE on the limitation of emissions of volatile organic compounds due to the use of organic solvents in certain paints and varnishes and vehicle refinishing products	0	1	0	0	0	0	0
2002/49/EC on the assessment and management of environmental noise	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
2005/33/EC amending Directive 1999/32/EC as regards the sulphur content of marine fuels	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
85/337/EEC on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment	3	0	1	3	0	0	0
2000/35/EEC on public participation in certain plans and programmes relating to the environment	0	1	0	0	0	0	0
2003/4/EC on public access to environmental information	0	0	0	1	0	0	0
92/43/EEC on habitats	0	1	0	1	0	0	1
79/409/EEC on wild birds	0	0	0	1	0	0	1
75/442/EEC the waste directive	4	2	1	0	1	0	0
75/439/EEC on the disposal of waste oils	1	0	0	0	0	0	0
91/271/EEC on urban waste water treatment	0	1	0	1	0	0	0
91/676/EEC on nitrates	0	0	0	0	0	1	0
76/464/EEC on dangerous substances in water	0	0	0	0	0	1	0
80/778/EEC on the quality of drinking water for human consumption	1	0	0	0	0	1	0
80/68/EC on groundwater	0	0	0	1	0	0	0

Local Authority Services.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

71 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department will request all local authorities to produce comprehensive lists of all parks and green spaces that are held on long-term leases and dates when these leases end, and draw up a plan for the way such situations should be dealt with by local authorities in view of recent incidents in Darthmouth Square, Dublin and Mallow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36694/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 202 to 206 of 26 October 2006.

Section 67 and Schedule 13 of the Local Government Act, 2001 empower local authorities to take such measures, engage in such activities or do such things as they consider necessary to promote the interests of the local community. This includes general recreational and leisure activities such as the provision of parks, gardens and open spaces whether by the leasing of land or otherwise. I have no proposals to issue directions to local authorities regarding the discharge of their discretionary functions.

Question No. 72 answered with QuestionNo. 43.

Recycling Policy.

Dan Boyle

Question:

73 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the communications and meetings his Department have had recently with representatives of the newspaper industry in relation to the establishment of a producer responsibility recycling scheme (details supplied). [36687/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

A Joint Industry Taskforce, comprising the Regional Newspapers Association of Ireland (RNAI), Irish Retail Newsagents Association (IRNA), Newspread and Eason Wholesale Ltd, and co-ordinated by National Newspapers of Ireland (NNI) was established and has been engaged in negotiations with my Department. The aim of these discussions with the stakeholders, which are continuing, is to develop a producer responsibility initiative for the recovery and recycling of newspapers and magazines.

John Deasy

Question:

74 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on whether a 50% household recycling rate can be achieved here; when such a target could be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36629/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Recycling is a significant element of the Government's overall integrated policy framework on waste management — which is based on the internationally recognised waste hierarchy — prioritising waste prevention, minimisation, reuse, recycling, energy recovery and the environmentally sound disposal of residual waste which cannot be recycled or recovered.

This significant emphasis on recycling is reflected in the 1998 policy statement Changing our Ways which provided a national policy framework for the adoption and implementation by local authorities of strategic waste management plans under which specific national objectives and targets would be achieved. Specifically, Changing our Ways set ambitious recycling targets to be achieved over a fifteen year timescale — i.e. by 2013 — including a recycling target of 35% of municipal waste recycling and a diversion of 50% of household waste from landfill.

National waste statistics are collated and published by the EPA. In its National Waste Database Report for 1998, the EPA estimated that 166,684 tonnes (9%) of municipal (household and commercial) waste was recovered for recycling in that year. In its corresponding 2004 Report, the EPA estimated that the recovery rate of municipal waste had increased to 918,995 tonnes(33.6%). Similarly, the EPA 2004 Report states that 295,134 tonnes (19.5%) of household waste were recycled in 2004 compared with 37,518 tonnes (3.2%) in 1998.

The dramatic increases in recycling rates for household waste have been driven by successful Government policies including:

the provision of segregated collections for dry recyclables to over 540,000 households by 2003;

the continued expansion of the numbers of bring facilities. The number of bring banks grew from 837 in 1998 to 1,929 by 2004 while the number of civic amenity sites grew from 30 to 69 over the same period;

the roll out of pay-by-use by public and private sector waste operators in recent years; and

raising awareness through campaigns such as the Race Against Waste.

In order to provide further impetus in this area, a range of further measures have also been, or are in the process of being, undertaken:

successful producer responsibility initiatives are in place to support the achievement of recycling targets for certain waste materials e.g the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) scheme introduced in August 2005 has lead to a five-fold increase in recycling of this waste stream while the European Union set 2005 target of 50% recovery rate for packaging waste was exceeded in 2003 and reached 56.4% in 2004;

the National Strategy on Biodegradable Waste was published in April 2006. In 2004, almost three quarters of municipal (household and commercial) waste sent to landfill was biodegradable. The Strategy sets out measures aimed at the separate collection, recovery and recycling of biodegradable waste with a view to achieving the progressive diversion of biodegradable municipal waste from landfill by 2016 to 35% of the amount of biodegradable municipal waste generated in the baseline year of 1995; and

the Market Development Group was established in 2004 to oversee the development of a Market Development Programme which will identify new applications and markets for recyclable material and secondary recycled products. The Group has been asked to identify barriers to the use and marketing of recyclable material and to develop strategies to address these. The Market Development Programme is being finalised at present for publication later this year.

I am confident on the basis of the measures outlined above, and the enthusiasm that exists among the general public for recycling, that the target set out in Changing Our Ways in 1998 of 35% recyclers of municipal waste and 50% diversion of household waste from landfill by 2013 will be achieved.

Local Authority Staff.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

75 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of the recently released Census 2006 Preliminary Report, a review of staffing levels within local authorities has taken place; if not, when such a review will take place; when staffing levels in local authorities were last reviewed; if local authority areas that have experienced significant population increases will be provided with additional resources by his Department to take on extra staff to serve their increased populations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36443/06]

Emmet Stagg

Question:

344 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of the increases in population in local authority areas as shown in the 2006 preliminary census figures, he has held consultations with the Department of Finance with a view to getting the public service embargo on local authority staff recruitment lifted, with particular reference to counties in the greater Dublin area, where expanding populations are demanding improved services which can only be delivered upon by the employment of additional staff. [36873/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 75 and 344 together.

Government policy on the control and regulation of numbers in the public sector, including local authorities, was announced in the Minister for Finance's Budget statement of 7 December 2005. I am continuing to keep the overall employment position in the sector under regular review, having regard to the need to deliver quality front line services and achieve value for money within the parameters of Government policy on public service employment generally. As regards a review of staffing levels in any local authority, it is a matter for the City or County Manager concerned to make such staffing and organisational arrangements as may be necessary for the purposes of carrying out the functions of the local authorities for which he or she is responsible.

Sustainable Development Strategy.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

76 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to publish a national sustainable development strategy; the matters such a strategy will address; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36510/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Ten Year Framework Social Partnership Agreement, Towards 2016, includes a commitment to publishing a renewed National Sustainable Development Strategy by mid 2007.

Ireland's first sustainable development strategy, Sustainable Development — A Strategy for Ireland was published in 1997. A review of the Strategy, Making Ireland's Development Sustainable, was published in 2002, ahead of the World Summit on Sustainable Development held in Johannesburg.

The renewed EU Sustainable Development Strategy was adopted by the European Council at their meeting in June, 2006.

Ireland's renewed Supportable Development Strategy will take account of the revised EU Strategy and our specific circumstances including:

the publication of the Lisbon Agenda-National Reform Programme 2005;

the Ten Year Framework Social Partnership Agreement 2006-2015, Towards 2016, and

the National Development Plan 2007-2013 now being finalised.

My Department will lead in coordinating the preparation of this renewed strategy which will draw the range of relevant policies into a coherent framework, review progress and set directions for future action.

To oversee and guide this task I am setting up a High-Level Inter-Departmental Steering Group. Comhar, the National Council for Sustainable Development will also be supporting the process. Options for broader consultation, which will facilitate effective contributions by all stakeholders, are being examined.

Question No. 77 answered with QuestionNo. 51.

Question No. 78 answered with QuestionNo. 21.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

79 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the report by Sir Nicholas Stern on behalf of the UK Government on the issue of climate change and its simple and apocalyptic message, that climate change is fundamentally altering the planet; that the risks of inaction are high and time is running out; and the Government’s response to same. [36689/06]

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

125 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the report published in October 2006 by Sir Nicholas Stern; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36619/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 79 and 125 together.

I welcome the publication of the Stern Review on the Economics of Climate Change. The report offers a comprehensive review of the economic implications of climate change. Together with the substantial body of scientific evidence which is available through the UN system in relation to climate change, the Governments of the world now have a comprehensive analysis of the issue, and very clear advice that it makes both environmental and economic sense to act now.

The Stern report makes it clear that climate change is a global problem which must be addressed by effective multilateral action. From the outset of the international response to climate change through the United Nations, the EU has been very positive and proactive in promoting a concerted global response to climate change. Ireland has supported and continues to support that position.

Waste Management.

John Deasy

Question:

80 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the revenue generated by the plastic bag levy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36630/06]

Olwyn Enright

Question:

110 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to increase the plastic bag levy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36631/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 80 and 110 together.

Income to date from the plastic bag levy amounts to €64,988,365. The 15c levy on plastic bags, as provided for in the Waste Management (Environmental Levy) (Plastic Bag) Regulations 2001, has led to a dramatic reduction in use of plastic bags with a consequent positive environmental benefit. Plastic shopping bags accounted for 5% of litter arisings prior to the introduction of the levy, but for just 0.22% of litter arisings in 2004.

There has been an upward trend in receipts remitted by the Revenue Commissioners since the levy was introduced, but this must be interpreted with caution. Firstly, these figures are not a precise measure of the number of bags supplied in a given period — each year's figure will also include levies recovered in respect of earlier periods on account of retailers filing late returns and the recoupment of levies due following Revenue audit findings. Secondly, the increase in income is also likely to be due in part to increased enforcement by local authorities and audit activity by the Revenue Commissioners. Enforcement efforts have been stepped up and a special network of local authority officers has been established to monitor and co-ordinate the enforcement drive.

I have previously indicated that I am anxious to ensure that the levy's positive effect on our environment is maintained. To that end, I have decided that the levy will be increased to 22c shortly — this is the maximum level that can be set under the existing legislative provisions. While I would like to increase the levy sooner, I must give both the Revenue Commissioners and retailers time to adjust their systems. The proposed change represents a substantial 47% increase on the original levy and I am confident that it will have the desired effect in discouraging use of plastic shopping bags. I will monitor the implementation of the new levy carefully; if it becomes apparent that further increases are required I will bring forward the necessary legislative changes to the Waste Management Act.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Seán Ryan

Question:

81 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the measures in place to ensure that in land swap arrangements in relation to affordable housing provisions represent value for the State in terms of the volume and quality of affordable houses provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36519/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 151 of 4 October 2006. The position is unchanged.

Seán Ryan

Question:

82 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will set down national guidelines to local authorities in respect of the application of Part V of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, and the other legislative provisions for social and affordable housing in view of the fact that delivery of the required and expected volumes of social and affordable housing has not happened. [36518/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 150 of 4 October 2006. The position is unchanged.

Departmental Expenditure.

Gerard Murphy

Question:

83 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make available all reference material on procurement guidelines and practices including the consolidated guidelines used by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36610/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 135 of 4 October 2006.

I am arranging for the following documents to be made available in the Oireachtas Library:

My Department's consolidated guidelines on procurement;

a list of reference material on procurement that has been published on my Department's Intranet, together with the Internet weblinks to the original source material.

Question No. 84 answered with QuestionNo. 22.

Question No. 85 answered with QuestionNo. 47.

Road Network.

Michael Ring

Question:

86 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his Department’s estimate of the money needed per annum to upgrade non-national roads and pavement restoration to acceptable and safe standards; the amount he provided in the Estimates for this purpose in 2006; the shortfall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36644/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The improvement and maintenance of non-national roads is a matter for local authorities to be funded from their own resources supplemented by State Grants provided by my Department.

The results of a Pavement Condition Study on non-national roads, which was carried out by consultants and completed in 2005, have shown that there has been a very large growth in traffic volumes, including numbers of heavy goods vehicles, on our roads over the last 10 years and that the combination of growth in traffic volumes and damaging power has dramatically increased the structural loading on the non-national roads network. The study concludes that the economic boom, since the first study was carried out in 1996, has fundamentally changed the loading regime on the non-national roads network, with much higher and more frequent loading by heavier vehicles now being the norm.

The rate of occurrence of potholes and road disintegration has effectively halved since 1996 as a result of the €1.5 billion investment in Restoration Improvement and Maintenance works over the 1997 to 2004 period. However, the instance of other defects, such as rutting and edge cracking, has increased since 1996 as a result of growth in traffic on the network — particularly that of heavier and wider commercial vehicles.

The Study identified the level of pavement restoration needs in all county council areas. Based on these findings, my Department estimated that a sum of approximately €2 billion, at 2005 prices, would be required to address the needs identified. In order to ensure that pavement restoration needs in all counties are addressed within a 10-15 year period, I have increased the grants available for Restoration Improvement works to €205.3 million in 2006, which is an increase of over €31 million, or almost 18%, on the 2005 allocation. This very substantial increase means that significant progress can be made in allocating funds to address the deficiencies identified by the Pavement Condition Study. I have also allocated grants totalling €75 million for Restoration Maintenance works this year. This represents an increase of €15 million, or 25%, on the 2005 allocation.

In addition to the pavement restoration programme, my Department also provides grants to local authorities for works on non-national roads under a number of other grant categories. An estimate of the total funding requirements for improvements to, and construction of new, non-national roads is not available in my Department. Grants are allocated on an annual basis and in determining the annual non-national road grant allocations, the overall objective is to resource each local authority appropriately in relation to their ongoing and special needs. The process is guided by a range of criteria, including road pavement conditions, traffic volumes, length of road network, population and eligibility in relation to specific projects such as EU Co-Financed Specific Improvements Schemes.

In 2006, the total grant allocation by my Department for non-national roads is almost €558 million — an increase of 13% or €62.5 million on the record 2005 allocation.

Environmental Policy.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

87 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on the recent work of his Department with the Six Counties Department of Environment on environmental issues; if the possibility of creating a single all-Ireland environmental protection agency was discussed; and his views on such a development. [36661/06]

Dan Boyle

Question:

121 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps his Department has taken to ensure cooperation with environmental agencies in Northern Ireland could be enhanced, in view of environmental NGO and OECD recommendations that, where possible, environmental issues should be dealt with by cross-Border mechanisms. [36688/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 87 and 121 together.

I am well aware of the importance of cross-border co-operation on environmental matters. On 2 October 2006 I met with my Northern Ireland counterpart Minister David Cairns to discuss issues of common interest, in particular biodiversity, waste management and spatial planning. We acknowledged the significant on-going North/South co-operation between our Departments and agencies and looked forward to building on this co-operation in the period ahead for the mutual benefit of communities North and South.

My Department together with the Department of the Environment Northern Ireland and the relevant agencies concerned is taking forward a number of initiatives involving enhanced co-operation and joint action on an all-island and cross-border basis in a range of areas including waste management, water quality management, natural heritage, information and awareness, environmental research, spatial planning, regional development, fire services and emergency planning. Some of the more notable of these include:

Co-ordinated implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive;

Joint implementation of the environmental protection and management measure of the EU Interreg IIIA North/South Programme 2000-2006 which is providing support for 18 cross-border projects, costing some €20m;

The expansion of waste recycling on an all-island basis by the North/South Market Development Steering Group. Phase 1 of a jointly funded North-South study on the feasibility of establishing a paper mill on the island of Ireland was published in August 2006. Business sector interest in the proposal is currently being assessed;

Activities aimed at tackling illegal movements of waste;

The management of shared biodiversity resources, and specifically the development of a common approach to both threatened species and invasive alien species;

A collaborative framework for joint action in implementing the cross-border aspects of the National Spatial Strategy and the Regional Development Strategy for Northern Ireland;

A North West Gateway initiative to provide a co-ordinated, cross-border approach to the development of the North West region.

The focus of our work together has been on achieving the best environmental outcomes from our co-operative efforts. Our discussions did not encompass the question of an all-Ireland Environmental Protection Agency.

Traveller Accommodation.

John Perry

Question:

88 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make a statement on the progress to date in the provision of Traveller accommodation; the number of families at present on unauthorised sites by county; if present plans by each county council will address such accommodation needs; the expected time frame for such; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36648/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

During the course of the first local authority Traveller accommodation programmes adopted in accordance with the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998 and covering the period from 2000 to 2004, there was a significant improvement in the accommodation position of Travellers. During that time an additional 828 families were accommodated in standard local authority accommodation. In the same period, 398 new units of permanent Traveller specific accommodation were provided and a further 322 units of permanent Traveller specific accommodation were refurbished to modern standards.

This progress has continued under the second programmes covering the period 2005 to 2008. At the end of 2005 there were 589 families on unauthorised sites, as shown in the November 2005 Annual Count of Traveller families. This represents a reduction of over 50% in the number of families on unauthorised sites, down from a figure of 1,207 at the inception of the programmes. The Table provides details of the number of Traveller families on unauthorised sites in each local authority area.

Number of families on unauthorised sites 2005
Local Authority:	No. of families:
Carlow	5
Cavan	1
Clare	6
Cork City	7
Cork County	33
Donegal	1
Dublin City	72
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown	12
Fingal	43
Galway City	0
Galway County	45
Kerry	6
Kildare	20
Kilkenny	13
Laois	6
Leitrim	0
Limerick City	1
Limerick County	43
Longford	5
Louth	3
Mayo	28
Meath	0
Monaghan	8
Offaly	23
Roscommon	5
Sligo	20
South Dublin	15
North Tipperary	28
South Tipperary	18
Waterford City	8
Waterford County	7
Westmeath	0
Wexford	72
Wicklow	35
Total	589

My Department is currently in the process of gathering information from each local authority on the number of families on unauthorised sites in 2006.

Under the Traveller accommodation plans for the period 2005 to 2008, each local authority was required when adopting their programme, to specify targets for the level of accommodation to be provided during the course of the programmes. On the basis of these targets being realised, it is envisaged that the accommodation needs of Travellers as determined at the start of the programmes, including those on unauthorised sites, will be met during the course of these programmes.

Question No. 89 answered with QuestionNo. 47.

Architectural Heritage.

Denis Naughten

Question:

90 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 1533 of 27 September 2006, his plans to review the funding for architectural protection grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36439/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Following a review of my Department's Built Heritage Capital Programme for 2006, I announced on 29 September that I had re-allocated identified savings within that programme to add to the provision of certain individual projects as follows:

Heritage Council €1,650,000

Waterford City Walls €260,000;

Local Authority Conservation Grants Schemes €1,067,000.

The additional €1,650,000 for The Heritage Council is being be directed towards the conservation of valuable heritage properties throughout the country with particular emphasis on smaller projects.

In the case of Waterford City Walls, I provided an additional €260,000 to Waterford City Council to assist them meet their financial commitments with regard to restoring the medieval city walls. This brings my Department's cumulative contribution to this project to €2 million.

I responded favourably to requests for additional funding from many Local Authorities for their Conservation Grants Schemes by allocating a further €1,067,000 to enable them to grant-aid the conservation of structures of architectural significance in the Record of Protected Structures (RPS) which the Local Authority lists under the Planning and Development Act 2000. The distribution of this funding is as follows:

City/County Council	Additional Funding
	€
Cavan	60,000
Cork City Council	87,000
Cork County Council	130,000
Galway	125,000
Laois	20,000
Leitrim	40,000
Limerick County Council	110,000
Offaly	50,000
Roscommon	82,000
Sligo	23,000
Tipperary North	10,000
Waterford City Council	50,000
Waterford County Council	80,000
Wexford	200,000
Total	1,067,000

Funding for the Built Heritage Capital Programme for 2007 and subsequent years is under consideration as part of the Estimates and NDP process respectively.

Local Authority Housing.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

91 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of local authority housing schemes currently awaiting approval in his Department; the number of housing units represented by these schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36494/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

There are some fourteen local authority housing schemes which are under examination in my Department either at pre-tender stage or awaiting tender approval involving a total of over 500 dwellings. It is the case that in some instances further information is awaited from the local authority concerned before a final decision is made on a proposal. It is my Department's intention to convey decisions to local authorities on these schemes as soon as possible.

Local Government Policy.

Bernard Allen

Question:

92 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the Chamber of Commerce submission on local government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36608/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I have noted the contents of the report referred to in the Question. With regard to local government funding in general, I consider that the present system of funding local government, put in place by this Government, has served us particularly well, and has placed local government in a much better financial position than in the past.

This year I announced record levels of general purpose grants to local authorities from the Local Government Fund amounting to some €875m. Taking account of global valuations, this was an increase of some 8% on the 2005 allocation or2½ times the 1997 level. I will shortly be announcing the general purpose grant allocations to local authorities for 2007 and I am confident that the levels of funding that will be made available will again be adequate to meet ongoing local authority needs. I specifically requested that in order to support competitiveness in the economy and to protect the interests of communities, local authorities should to the greatest extent possible ensure that they exercise restraint in setting any increases in commercial rates and local charges for 2006. I am pleased that local authorities responded positively to this request. I will again ask them, in the context of the adoption of their 2007 budgets, to keep increases in rates and local charges to the minimum required.

With regard to development contributions, I am glad to note that Chambers Ireland are fully supportive of development contributions, stating that they allow for local authorities to charge all developers of property, both business and residential, for the provision of associated infrastructure including roads, amenities, etc. The Report primarily points to a variation in the charges levied for commercial and industrial development throughout the different local authorities.

The adoption of development contribution schemes is a matter for the elected members of each local authority following a full public consultation, an approach that was relatively recently endorsed by the Oireachtas in the context of the Planning and Development Act 2000. The Act provides that the basis for determining the contributions must be stated in the scheme, based on the actual estimated cost of the infrastructure provided or to be provided by or on behalf of the local authority. Since that cost will differ among local authorities, depending on local need for infrastructure investment and rates of development, it is inevitable that there will be variation in the development contribution schemes. However, my Department advised planning authorities, in circular letter PD 4/2003, that they should be mindful of the policies adopted by other authorities in their immediate area so as to avoid a major divergence in the level of contributions charged. Planning authorities were also advised in this Circular that while it is expected that developers should make an appropriate contribution towards the costs of public infrastructure and facilities, care should be taken to avoid development contributions that are excessively high.

My Department has established an Interdepartmental Committee, including representation from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, to look at issues raised by different interests in relation to development contributions schemes. This Committee is considering whether revised guidance should issue to planning authorities before they review their schemes next.

Proposed Legislation.

John Gormley

Question:

93 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to modernise the legislation regarding noise pollution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36691/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I refer to the replies to Questions No. 106 of 13 June 2006 and No. 225 of 4 October 2006, which set out the range of legislation on noise pollution already in place.

Given these extensive controls on noise pollution from various sources, it is not proposed to introduce further legislation in this area.

Question No. 94 answered with QuestionNo. 23.

Urban Renewal Schemes.

Seán Crowe

Question:

95 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on implementing an estate renewal scheme in view of the growing community crisis gripping suburbs in Limerick and other areas which would involve a cocktail of funding, strategic interventions in health, housing, education and enterprise and which would not be a solely property led tax relief scheme, but a mix of incentives for development and other real investment in communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31186/06]

Seán Crowe

Question:

113 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the goal of ensuring all neighbourhoods and estates are healthy safe communities, where people have the opportunity to live, learn and work with dignity; his further views on whether in Limerick and other council areas there is a clear pressing need for renewal and investment in suburban estates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31187/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 95 and 113 together.

Last December, the Government launched the Housing Policy Framework: Building Sustainable Communities. An important component of this policy framework is the commitment to improve the quality of social housing and particularly, run-down local authority estates by accelerating the rejuvenation of social housing stock. Almost €1 billion has been spent on regeneration and remedial works for local authority housing estates since 1997, and work is proceeding in many of the estates in Limerick.

The Government fully recognises that, problems in disadvantaged areas will usually require a multi-faceted response. Structures are in place to facilitate this through the RAPID programme, for example and through City/County Development Boards and the associated Social Inclusion Measures Working Groups which are in place in many counties.

In addition, the Government have recently appointed Mr. John Fitzgerald, former Dublin City Manager, to lead an initiative to address social exclusion, crime and disorder issues in Moyross in Limerick. Mr. Fitzgerald will work with existing agencies and community groups, to identify immediate actions which could be taken to improve the situation in Moyross. He has also been asked to bring forward suggestions about the regeneration of Moyross and other disadvantaged areas of Limerick in the context of the wider strategic development of the Limerick/ Shannon Gateway. Mr Fitzgerald will be reporting back regularly to the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion on the progress being made.

Local Government Expenditure.

Damien English

Question:

96 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount by which local government expenditure has increased for each year since 1999 to date in 2006; the factors involved in contributing to this growth in expenditure under benchmarking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36646/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The table sets out the increases in local authority current expenditure since 1999. The data for 1999 to 2005 are based on outturn figures and the data for 2006 on budget data provided by local authorities.

The increased expenditure by local authorities in the period is in response to the needs of an expanding population, growth in economic activity associated social and quality of life expectations, and high environmental standards. Indecon Economic Consultants in their Review of Local Government Financing (March 2006) identified that pay rates in the local authority sector increased by 44.7% between 1996 and 2002 compared to manufacturing pay rates which increased by 54% over the same period. The cost of benchmarking payments arose each year from 2003. It is estimated that the cumulative cost of benchmarking payments represents approximately 2.45% of total current expenditure between 2003 and 2006.

Year	Local Authority Current Expenditure	% Increase Year on Year
	€ Billion	%
1999	2.15	10.82
2000	2.40	11.63
2001	2.81	17.08
2002	3.14	11.74
2003	3.23	2.87
2004	3.55	9.91
2005	3.77	6.20
2006 (Estimate)	4.10	8.75

323 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department had contact with the European Commission since Ireland was issued with a final written warning over its non-conformity with the habitats directive; the action his Department has taken to meet the directive requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36914/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 98, 102, 106 and 323 together.

On 18 October, the European Commission issued a Reasoned Opinion requiring Ireland to complete the task of publishing Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and transmit the final list of SACs to the Commission. It is accepted by both sides that while substantial progress has already been made in this regard, the process must urgently be brought to finality.

On 24 October my Department met with the European Commission to discuss Ireland's actions in response to the Reasoned Opinion. These will include measures to improve the efficiency and finality of the SAC appeals process, with a view to guaranteeing the definitive designation of SACs.

My Department will continue to work closely with the Commission to secure a satisfactory resolution of this case.

Building Regulations.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

99 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to publicise the fact that buildings energy ratings will be required on new dwellings commencing on or after 1 January 2007; the number of new dwellings it is estimated will be exempt from BER under the transitional arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36486/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The definitive Action Plan for the Implementation of the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (2002/91/EC) in Ireland was published on I August 2006. Section 6 of the Plan set out proposals for a comprehensive consultation, promotion and information campaign to inform the general public and business industry. I understand that Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) has held and participated in more than 90 information sharing seminars on the implementation of this Directive with interested parties throughout the country. These seminars have been attended by more than 8000 participants, including 2,800 builders who attended the Home Bond Right on Site lecture series. SEI has also been maintaining an active information website (www.sei.ie/epbd), as well as issuing regular newsletters to an extensive mailing list.

I will be making European Communities (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations early next month providing for the implementation of the Building Energy Rating (BER) of new dwellings commencing on of after 1 January 2007. SEI will then initiate an information and publicity campaign focusing on the format and meaning of the BER label for a new dwelling; and the circumstances in which it will be required.

It is currently envisaged that the operative date of 1 January 2007 will be subject to the transitional exemption of new dwellings for which planning permission had been applied for on or before 30 June 2006, provided substantial work is completed by 30 June 2008. Transitional provisions are a common feature of major changes to the building code, so as not to disrupt the start of work on new buildings at an advanced stage of planning or design. The transitional exemption of new dwellings from BER has been reduced from 3 years, as proposed in the draft Action Plan to implement the EPBD, to 2 years.

While my Department is not in a position to give an accurate forecast of the number of new dwellings which could potentially benefit from the transitional BER exemption, the maximum number would be around 110,000 units.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

100 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will enact section 59 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 to subject all local authority sewage treatment works to full EPA licensing regime. [36695/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

My Department is currently in consultation with the Environmental Protection Agency, the European Commission and other relevant Government Departments on a draft of regulations under section 59 of the European Protection Act 1992. The proposed regulations are to provide for the licensing of urban waste water discharges from treatment plants and to give further effect to provisions of the EU Dangerous Substances Directive (76/464/EEC) and the EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC).

Question No. 101 answered with QuestionNo. 56.

Question No. 102 answered with QuestionNo. 98.

Question No. 103 answered with QuestionNo. 48.

Question No. 104 answered with QuestionNo. 24.

Planning Issues.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

105 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason delivery under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2002 has been so low; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36626/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I do not accept that delivery under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006 is low. Part V applies only to applications for planning permission for multiple housing developments on land zoned for residential use, or a mixture of residential and other uses. Accordingly, not all housing developments are subject to Part V. It does not apply to planning permissions granted prior to the introduction of Part V, or to developments of less than four units, or to developments on residentially zoned land that does not exceed 0.1 hectares, or to developments on land that is not zoned residential.

Part V is gathering momentum and will undoubtedly play an increasing role in the delivery of social and affordable housing in the future. It is envisaged that over 8,000 social and affordable units will be delivered under Part V in the next 3 years alone.

Question No. 106 answered with QuestionNo. 98.

Library Projects.

Paul McGrath

Question:

107 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of new libraries built since 1997; the number of positions vacant and unfilled; the length of time these positions are vacant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36606/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The development of the public library service is, in the first instance, a matter for each library authority. Under the Public Library Capital Programme, my Department has grant aided new libraries up to 75% of the capital costs, with expenditure in excess of the grant aid a matter for the relevant local authority. According to information supplied to my Department by local authorities 49 new libraries were provided by them since 1997.

The information requested on the number of positions vacant and unfilled is not available in my Department. Under Section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, it is a matter for the manager of each local authority to make such staffing and organisational arrangements as may be necessary for the purposes of carrying out the functions of the local authorities for which he/she is responsible.

Waste Disposal.

Michael Noonan

Question:

108 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take on foot of the report from the Environmental Protection Agency which shows one in ten householders admit to backyard burning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36634/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Under the Air Pollution Act 1987, the occupier of any premises, other than a private dwelling, is required to use the best practicable means to limit and, if possible, to prevent emissions, including smoke emissions, from such premises. In addition, the occupier of any premises is prohibited from causing or permitting an emission in such a quantity or manner as to be a nuisance. The Act provides local authorities with powers to prevent or limit air pollution and penalties include fines and/or imprisonment upon conviction.

The Waste Management Act 1996, as amended, places a general duty of care on the holder of waste not to hold, transport, recover or dispose of waste in a manner that causes or is likely to cause environmental pollution. Local authorities have specific powers under the Act to require measures to be taken to prevent or limit environmental pollution caused by the holding or disposal of waste, and mitigate or remedy the effects on the environment of any such activity.

Notwithstanding successful prosecutions taken using the legislation as it stands, I am exploring the possibility of strengthening the current legislation by way of a new set of waste regulations aimed at more specifically outlawing the unacceptable practice of backyard burning. In order to bring the issues involved to a wider public audience, under the Race Against Waste Awareness Campaign an information leaflet entitled Backyard Burning has been published, which highlights the effects of uncontrolled low temperature backyard burning of waste.

Local Authority Funding.

Joe Costello

Question:

109 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he intends to notify local authorities of the rate support grant and the proceeds of motor taxation which will be allocated to each local authority for 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36499/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Local Government Fund general purpose grants, which are financed from the proceeds of motor tax and an Exchequer contribution, will be notified to local authorities within the next month.

Question No. 110 answered with QuestionNo. 80.

Environmental Policy.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

111 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cases against Ireland, relating to environmental matters, which were commenced by the EU Commission in the European Court since 1997 to date in 2006; the stage to which each such case proceeded; the amount of legal costs incurred by the State in defending the cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36501/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

From January 1997 to date twenty-five environmental infringement proceedings, in areas for which my Department has responsibility, have been brought to the European Court of Justice. Eleven of these cases have since been closed, the requirements of the judgement having been met. One of these had proceeded to Letter of Formal Notice and one to Reasoned Opinion under Article 228 of the Treaty before being closed.

Of the fourteen cases still open:

Five have yet to be heard by the Court.

The judgement of the Court is awaited in three cases which have been heard and on which the opinion of the Advocate General has issued.

The court has delivered its judgement in six cases and my Department is working closely with the Commission and other stakeholders to meet the requirements of these judgements; the Commission has issued a Letter of Formal Notice under Article 228 of the Treaty in respect of three of these cases and the Commission has issued a Reasoned Opinion under Article 228 of the Treaty in two of these cases.

The Office of the Attorney General and the Chief State Solicitor's Office provide the legal service to the State in the conduct of European Court of Justice litigation. Legal fees arising are therefore a matter for those offices.

Local Authority Housing.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

112 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the fact that according to his Department’s statistics, many local authorities do not inspect housing units used in the rental accommodation scheme as they do not have the funds to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36676/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

Local authorities undertake inspections of private rental accommodation for a number of purposes including the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS).

Under RAS local authorities are providing good quality accommodation for recipients of rent supplement assessed as having long term housing need. In assessing potential RAS properties, local authority costs are allowed as a charge against the administrative costs of the scheme.

Increased funding is also being provided to local authorities from the proceeds of tenancy registration fees for enforcement of the regulations relating to private rented accommodation, including inspections. €1.6m was allocated in 2005 for this purpose and it is intended that funding will be increased further to around €2m per annum for 2006 and 2007. Interim payments for 2006 totalling some €1m have already been made through the PRTB.

It is a matter for individual authorities to determine how best to deploy their resources for the inspection of private rented accommodation and for which there is adequate funding available from a variety of sources.

Question No. 113 answered with QuestionNo. 95.

Election Management System.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

114 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will make regulations increasing the spending limits for the 2007 general election; the amount to which spending limits will be increased; the persons he intends to consult regarding this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36514/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Section 32 of the Electoral Act 1997, as amended, specifies the maximum amounts of expenditure which may be incurred on behalf of a candidate at a Dáil election. The amounts are €25,394.76 in a 3 seat constituency; €31,743.45 in a 4 seat constituency; and €38,092.14 in a 5 seat constituency. Section 3 of the Act provides that these amounts may be varied, by order of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, having regard to changes in the Consumer Price Index. Any such order must be laid before each House of the Oireachtas.

No decision regarding an amending order has been made at this stage. I will consider any views that may be put forward in the matter.

Housing Management Companies.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

115 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has considered the report of the National Consumer Agency on management fees and service charges levied on owners of property in multi-unit dwellings; if he will implement those recommendations which relate to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36505/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Two recommendations in the recent National Consumer Agency Report are stated to be for action by my Department.

Recommendation 25 refers to the completion of developments in accordance with the terms of the planning permissions and makes reference to section 35 of the Planning and Development Act 2000. Planning authorities already have substantial enforcement powers and duties under the planning legislation. Further, the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006, which was enacted on 16 July 2006 effectively reversed the burden of proof in Section 35 of the Planning and Development 2000 Act which provided that planning authorities may refuse to grant planning permission, subject to the consent of the High Court, to any developer who has seriously failed to comply with a previous planning permission. From now on the planning authority will be empowered to refuse permission in such a case and the developer will have to go to the High Court if he wishes to apply to have this decision overturned.

Recommendation 12 is that the contract between the developer and the management company to convey the title of the buildings and common areas to the management company should include a contractual obligation on the developer to attend to the management company's snag list, prepared by an independent architect/surveyor and that this should be implemented by means of an amendment to planning legislation. Having examined this recommendation I do not consider that planning legislation is the appropriate vehicle for implementing it.

Questions Nos. 116 and 117 answered with Question No. 23.

Water Quality.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

118 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his proposals for the provision and storage of an adequate drinking water supply throughout the country in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36570/06]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

365 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for the provision of medium to short term drinking water supply throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37060/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 118 and 365 together.

I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 326, 335 and 337 of 4 October 2006.

Question No. 119 answered with QuestionNo. 10.

Building Regulations.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

120 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to amend building regulations to improve accessibility for people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36632/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I initiated a public consultation process in December 2005 on a review of the existing Part M (Access for People with Disabilities) of the Building Regulations and the related Technical Guidance Document (TGD) M. I asked interested parties to identify any deficiencies in the existing Part M/TGD M regime; and to suggest how they should be remedied.

An excellent response has been received — more than 40 detailed submissions by the end of the consultation period on 30 March 2006. The submissions have been summarised by my Department and are now the subject of examination by a Sub-Group of the Building Regulations Advisory Body (BRAB).

I expect to receive a draft amended Part M/TGD M proposals from BRAB, early in 2007, and to publish draft regulations shortly thereafter.

Question No. 121 answered with QuestionNo. 87.

Question No. 122 answered with QuestionNo. 24.

Proposed Legislation.

John Gormley

Question:

123 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to update the Acquisition of Lands (Allotments) Act 1926; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36692/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Acquisition of Lands (Allotments) Act 1926 was repealed by the Local Government Act 1994.

Section 67 of the Local Government Act 2001 provides that a local authority may take such measures, engage in such activities or do such things as it considers necessary or desirable to promote the interests of the local community in relation to a range of specified matters, including allotments, fairs and markets, and related amenities, facilities and services.

Housing Policy.

Willie Penrose

Question:

124 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the basis for his statement on 6 October 2006 that house building will continue to perform strongly for the foreseeable future; the number of house and apartment completions to date in 2006; his estimates for the completions in 2006 and 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36493/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

There were 66,470 dwellings completed in the first 9 months of 2006, of which 14,200 were apartments. This represented an increase in completions of 22% on the same period last year. Estimates prepared for this Department by DKM Economic Consultants, suggest that housing output will be about 90,000 units in both 2006 and 2007. Their estimate is for an easing of housing supply to 75,000 in 2008, which is still a considerable output by any standards.

House building should continue to perform strongly for the foreseeable future in light of the positive trends in some of the leading indicators, with new house registrations up 14% in the first 9 months, and construction sector employment continuing to grow strongly, by some 8% in the past year. In addition under Towards 2016, the Government have made considerable commitments to significant additional investment to increase the output of social and affordable housing.

Question No. 125 answered with QuestionNo. 79.

Question No. 126 answered with QuestionNo. 22.

Gambling Casinos.

Joan Burton

Question:

127 Ms Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he or his Ministers of State have received representations in favour of casinos and casino gambling here; the number of representations that have been received; if any of the promoters of changes in the law to facilitate casino gambling have been met personally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36736/06]

Joan Burton

Question:

129 Ms Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the representations he has received in favour of casinos and casino gambling here; the number of representations he has received; the organisations and persons he has received them from; the form the representations have taken; if he has met with promoters of casinos and casino gambling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36758/06]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 127 and 129 together.

As the Deputy is already aware, in August this year the Government agreed to my proposals for the establishment of an Inter-Departmental Committee (the Casino Regulation Committee), on which my Department is represented, to report on the possibilities for a legislative basis for the strict regulation of casino-style operations within the State. The Casino Regulation Committee is due to report to Government shortly.

The Deputy should be aware that my Department has taken a decision not to have individual meetings with promoters of change in the law outside of the Committee framework pending the completion of that Committee's report.

The Committee issued a public call for submissions and has met many of the parties who made submissions. As part of its functions on that Committee my Department was represented at those meetings. Outside of this framework in that time, I have received representations from eight parties promoting changes in the law and one against such change. My response to all such representations is that having established a Committee to consider these complex issues, I do not propose to comment on future policy in advance of receiving and considering the report of the Casino Regulation Committee.

It is a fact that some organisations and individuals may not want their names appearing in the public domain and bearing in mind the requirements under the Freedom of Information legislation to protect third party information, I do not propose to provide details of the individuals or organisation who made written representations to me at this time.

Garda Deployment.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

128 Mr. Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans in place to allocate more staff to Rathcoole Garda station, particularly community gardaí; his plans to extend the opening hours of the station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36757/06]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 has resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.

I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that Rathcoole Garda Station forms part of the Dublin Metropolitan Region West Division. The personnel strength of the Dublin Metropolitan Region West Division as at 31 December, 1997 was 513 (all ranks). The personnel strength of the Dublin Metropolitan Region as at 7 November, 2006 was 692 (all ranks). This represents an increase of 179 (or 34%) in the number of personnel allocated since that date.

The Garda authorities state that the personnel strength of Rathcoole Garda Station as at 31 December, 1997 was 11. The personnel strength of Rathcoole Garda Station as at 7 November, 2006 was 23 (all ranks). This represents an increase of 12 (or 109%) in the number of personnel allocated since that date.

Local Garda management reports that there is currently one Community Garda attached to Rathcoole Garda Station. Local Garda management are satisfied that the policing requirements of the Rathcoole Sub-District are adequately met by the existing available resources attached to Rathcoole Garda Station.

Local Garda management also reports that there are no plans to extend the opening times of Rathcoole Garda Station. The station is currently open from 10 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 6 pm daily. The extension of the opening hours would necessitate the employment of additional personnel on indoor administrative duties who may be more effectively employed on outdoor policing duties.

It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Garda management state that such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.

Question No. 129 answered with QuestionNo. 127.

Citizenship Applications.

Gerard Murphy

Question:

130 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position with regard to allowing families of Irish born babies remain and work here; the number of families of Irish born children that have been deported since the change in law; if the Government made arrangements with Irish embassies abroad to ensure that Irish citizens who have been deported by the Government are kept in contact with and facilitated in every way possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36796/06]

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

In January, 2005 I announced a scheme whereby the non-national parents of children born in Ireland before 1 January 2005 could apply for leave to remain in the State based on their parentage of those children. This so-called IBC/05 Scheme and its terms and conditions were widely advertised and its closing date was 31 March, 2005. Generally, leave to remain was granted for a two year period initially, effective from the date of issue of the letter granting leave to remain. The permission allows the applicant to work without the need of a work permit and to engage in business without seeking the permission of the Minister. That scheme followed from the Citizenship Referendum in 2004 and the passing by the Oireachtas of the Immigration and Citizenship Act, 2004, the effect of which is that children born to non-nationals from 1 January, 2005 no longer enjoy an automatic right to citizenship.

In relation to the Deputy's question about the deportation of families of Irish born children, since the change in law, the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 2004, which was commenced by me with effect from 1 January 2005 provides at Section 4. 6A (1)2 — "A person born in the island of Ireland shall not be entitled to be an Irish citizen unless a parent of that person has, during the period of 4 years immediately preceding the person's birth, been resident in the island of Ireland for a period of not less than 3 years or periods the aggregate of which is not less than 3 years ".

It should be made clear that Irish citizen children cannot be deported and statistics are not maintained as to the number of Irish born children who accompany their parents who are the subject of deportation orders to their country of origin.

The Deputy should note also that children are not sent back with their parents to the parents' country of origin where no right of residency for those children exists in that country. For example, any child of Nigerian parents (i.e. the largest nationality group of asylum-seekers) is a Nigerian national by virtue of its parentage regardless of where he/she is born and is consequently entitled to reside with his/her parents in their country of origin following deportation. Given that such children will have an entitlement to citizenship in the State of their parent(s) it is not my intention to monitor the welfare of such children following their return to that country and the question of Ireland's consular services being available to such persons would arise in only the most exceptional of circumstances.

Visa Applications.

Billy Kelleher

Question:

131 Mr. Kelleher asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is possible for a Bulgarian national to enter Ireland on 1 January 2007 with a valid passport only, if that person only wishes to visit the country; the length of time they will be able to stay here without working; the documentation a Bulgarian national would need to live here indefinitely if supported by an Irish person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36798/06]

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

Nationals of Bulgaria, as and from 1 January, 2007, will have the same rights as other EU citizens except that, arising from the Government's recent decision, nationals of Bulgaria (and Romania) may not take up employment in the State except in accordance with an Employment Permit or where they are otherwise exempt. They may enter Ireland on production of their passport and/or national identity card. Visa requirements will no longer apply and they may reside here for up to three months. Thereafter, they must be: in employment; self-employed; enrolled on a course or study or vocational training and have private medical insurance; or self sufficient and have private medical insurance.

As and from 1 January, 2007 the main immigration law which will apply to Bulgarian and Romanian nationals is the European Communities (Free Movement of Persons) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 226 of 2006). Those Regulations, which I signed on 28 April 2006, transposed into Irish law the European Directive 2004/38/EC on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States.

While the Regulations do not specifically require the registration of EU citizens with the immigration authorities in the State, EU citizens can apply to my Department for a Permanent Residence Certificate if certain conditions are met as set out in the Regulations. In that context, a national of Bulgaria residing in the State and not economically active but supported by an Irish person and who claimed self-sufficiency on that basis would be expected to provide my Department with details of the relationship with the person on whom they depend and documentary evidence that they had sufficient financial resources to maintain themselves without recourse to State benefits.

Garda Investigations.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

132 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 197 of 18 October 2006, if it is the case that a criminal inquiry in addition to a disciplinary inquiry is under way in relation to the circumstances of the Garda handling of the death of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36830/06]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that a full disciplinary inquiry in conjunction with a criminal investigation is currently under way by a Chief Superintendent from outside the Division. As this inquiry is ongoing, the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to comment any further on the matter at this time.

Residency Permits.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

133 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason that no provision has been made in either the Immigration and Residence Bill or the Criminal Law (Trafficking in Persons and Sexual Offences) Bill for residency permits for victims of human trafficking in view of the fact that the threat of deportation is widely recognised as being a key impediment to trafficking victims coming forward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36831/06]

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

The Scheme of the Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill, which I published recently, makes provision for a new and integrated framework for the effective management of migration to the State. An integral part of that framework will be the ability to make and publish statements of the Government's immigration policy in relation to any aspect of immigration including, where necessary, victims of human trafficking. In the context of the proposed legislation, it will be possible for a suitable immigration policy statement to address all of the issues concerning the treatment of victims of human trafficking in an appropriate manner.

The Criminal Law (Trafficking in Persons and Sexual Offences) Bill provides only for criminal law issues. Issues relating to deportation and residency matters are relevant to the Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill.

Road Traffic Offences.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

134 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is in a position to supply the information requested in Parliamentary Question No. 81 of 12 October 2006. [36832/06]

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

In view of the nature of the question and in order to supply the details requested by the Deputy it is necessary for the Garda authorities to make enquires in each Garda Division. I will be in contact with the Deputy when the information is to hand.

National Drugs Strategy.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

135 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the findings of a campaign evaluation (details supplied) published on 1 November 2006 including the recommendation that the campaign be rolled out across the State; and if his Department will fund this expansion. [36840/06]

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

I understand that with monies provided by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs through the Government's Local Drug Task Force initiative fund, the Blanchardstown Local Drug Task Force has this year been running a pilot drug supply reduction campaign in the Dublin 15 area entitled "Dial to stop drug dealing".

This campaign has involved the Task Force, with the support of An Garda Síochána, working in conjunction with UK marketing company Public Communications Centre Limited, in the marketing and operation of a non-Garda confidential phone line to help gather information on drug dealing in the Dublin 15 area.

I further understand that the evaluation report of the project which was recently launched is concerned with the operation of the campaign during its initial six week period and that the report's findings are drawn from i) the daily reports from the call centre, ii) a report from An Garda Síochána on the operation of the initiative and iii) a public survey of a sample of 250 people in the local area.

I understand that the Blanchardstown Local Drug Task Force recently made a presentation to the National Drugs Strategy Team, (NDST) on the operation of the campaign and that the findings of the evaluation report are currently being examined by the NDST.

Garda Deployment.

The person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996, (Prohibition of Refoulement) as amended. I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.

Garda Deployment.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

139 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 435 of 27 September 2006, his views on whether there is inequality in the distribution of gardaí to divisions here; if he will raise this issue directly with the Garda Commissioner with a view to reallocating additional gardaí to where they are required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36862/06]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 has resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.

It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Garda management state that such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.

Visa Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

140 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if permission will be given to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare to do an apprenticeship. [36919/06]

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

I wish to refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 367 of 27th September 2006.

Garda Training.

John Deasy

Question:

141 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of the group of Garda reservists selected to commence training in Templemore on 30 September 2006; the number who registered for that training; the number that commenced training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36933/06]

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

Forty people were invited to commence training for the Garda Reserve in the Garda College at Templemore on 30 September 2006. Of that forty, three were unavailable, for personal reasons, to commence on that date. The remaining 37 trainees commenced phase one training in Templemore on 30 September 2006. They are currently in phase two of their training and are expected to complete their training in December.

Youth Diversion Projects.

Michael Lowry

Question:

142 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the criteria for establishment of a Garda youth diversion project in a community; the number of projects operating nationally and those projects in County Tipperary; his views on expanding the number of projects in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36934/06]

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

Garda Youth Diversion Projects are a community-based, multi-agency crime prevention initiative which seek to divert young persons from becoming involved or further involved in anti-social and/or criminal behaviour by providing suitable activities to facilitate personal development, promote civic responsibility and improve long-term employability prospects. By doing so, the projects also contribute to improving the quality of life within communities and enhancing Garda/community relations. The projects are funded by my Department and are administered by the Community Relations Section of An Garda Síochána.

I secured additional funding of €1.2 million for the projects in 2006, bringing the total amount of funding for the projects to €6.6 million for the year. It is my intention to expand the scheme to 100 projects nationwide before the end of 2007. The first phase of this expansion programme is currently being implemented with the establishment of 10 new projects recently, bringing the total number of projects currently established to 74. I hope to be soon in a position to announce the establishment of a further 10 projects.

The Garda Commissioner considers applications in accordance with the Garda Youth Diversion Project Guidelines drawn up in 2003 and brings forward proposals for the establishment of projects based on local need. Factors which are taken into consideration include increases in juvenile crime and the number of cases dealt with by the Juvenile Diversion Programme.

There is currently one Garda Youth Diversion Project in Tipperary, the CYD Project which is located in Clonmel. This project has been allocated €81,300 in funding for 2006.

Illegal Fireworks.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

143 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the value of fireworks, confirmed or estimated, that have been illegally imported into this country for each of the years 2002 to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36935/06]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that under Operation Tombola, the annual Garda operation aimed at combatting the illegal sale and use of fireworks, there have been 64 seizures of fireworks up to end October 2006 with an estimated value of €113,511.

The following table details the approximate value of unlicensed fireworks seized since 2002.

Year	Estimated Value
	€
2006	113,511
2005	454,760
2004	408,890
2003	57,430
2002	67,375

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Dog Unit consists of 26 Garda dogs and is staffed by 2 Sergeants and 14 Gardaí. There are currently two dogs being trained in Tactical Support and a further dog in blood detection. It is proposed to expand the Garda Dog Unit nationwide, on a Regional basis and to this end a pilot, in the Southern division (based in Cork and Limerick) has just been completed and is being evaluated.

Following the evaluation of the recent pilot in the Southern Region a decision on the further Regionalisation of the Unit will be made. The Regionalisation plan, if fully implemented, will result in an increase in the number of Garda dog handlers to 29 and the number of dogs to approximately 50.

Garda Deployment.

Dermot Fitzpatrick

Question:

153 Dr. Fitzpatrick asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the complement of Garda officers serving from the Cabra, Mountjoy, Store Street, Fitzgibbon Street and the Bridewell Garda stations during each of the years 2003 to 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37038/06]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 has resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.

I have been further informed that Cabra Garda Station forms part of the "K" District of the D.M.R. West Division. The personnel strength (all ranks) of the "K" District as at 31 December, 1997 and 8 November, 2006 was 247 and 316, respectively, representing an increase of 69 (or 27.9%) in the number of Garda personnel allocated to the "K" District during that period. The personnel strength (all ranks) of the Garda stations in the "K" District as at 31 December, 1997, 31 December, 2003-2005, inclusively, and as at 8 November, 2006 was as set out in the table.

	31/12/97	31/12/03	31/12/04	31/12/05	08/11/06
District K
Cabra*	82	65	63	69	69
Finglas	76	68	74	76	84
Blanchardstown	89	142	152	167	163
Total	247	275	289	312	316

*The District "K" Headquarters in Dublin Metropolitan Region West moved from Cabra Garda Station to Blanchardstown Garda Station during the period in question.

Cabra Garda Station forms part of the Dublin Metropolitan Region West Division. The personnel strength (all ranks) of the D.M.R. West Division as at 31 December, 1997 and 8 November, 2006 was 513 and 692, respectively, representing an increase of 179 (or 34.8%) in the number of Garda personnel allocated to the Division during that period. The Garda authorities have also informed me that Mountjoy Garda Station and Fitzgibbon Street Garda Station form the "U" District in the D.M.R. North Central Division. The personnel strength (all ranks) of the "U" District as at 31 December, 1997 and 8 November, 2006 was 198 and 202, respectively. The personnel strength (all ranks) of the Garda stations in the "U" District as at 31 December, 1997, 31 December, 2003-2005, inclusively, and as at 8 November, 2006 was as set out in the table.

	31/12/97	31/12/03	31/12/04	31/12/05	08/11/06
District U
Mountjoy	78	85	91	90	88
Fitzgibbon Street	120	119	119	119	114
Total	198	204	210	209	202

The Garda authorities also state that Store Street Garda Station and the Bridewell Garda Station form Districts "C" and "D" in the D.M.R. North Central Division, respectively. The personnel strength (all ranks) of Store Street Garda Station as at 31 December, 1997 and 8 November, 2006 was 231 and 270, respectively, representing an increase of 39 (or 16.8%) in the number of personnel allocated to the Station during that period. The personnel strength (all ranks) of Bridewell Garda Station as at 31 December, 1997 and 8 November, 2006 was 156 and 164, respectively, representing an increase of 8 (or 5.12%) in the number of personnel allocated since that date. The personnel strength (all ranks) of Store Street and Bridewell Garda stations as at 31 December, 1997, 31 December, 2003-2005, inclusively, and as at 8 November, 2006 was as set out in the table.

	31/12/97	31/12/03	31/12/04	31/12/05	08/11/06
District C
Store Street	231	261	269	271	270
District D
Bridewell	156	163	166	162	164

Mountjoy, Store Street, Bridewell and Fitzgibbon Street Garda stations forms part of the Dublin Metropolitan North Central Division. The personnel strength (all ranks) of the D.M.R. North Central Division as at 31 December, 1997 and 8 November, 2006 was 585 and 642, respectively, representing an increase of 57 (or 9.7%) in the number of Garda personnel allocated to the D.M.R. North Central Division during that period.

It is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel to and within Divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics. It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Garda management state that such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.

Deportation Orders.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

154 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of people who have been deported to date following deportation orders made by him pursuant to section 3(1) of the Immigration Act 1999 in respect of non-nationals who under section 3(2)(a) had served terms of imprisonment imposed on them by a court in the State; the years such deportation took place; and the nationality of those involved. [37039/06]

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

I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question Number 129 of 3rd October, 2006. In respect of non-nationals who had served terms of imprisonment, the table shows the position regarding deportations of those persons; 150 persons have been deported between 2001 and 17th May 2006.

Year	Total
2001	21
2002	21
2003	36
2004	23
2005	30
2006 (01/01/06-17/05/06)	19
Total	150

To protect the identity of the persons involved Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service does not release statistical breakdown of nationalities in instances where the figures are less than 10. However the following is a breakdown by continent and nationality where available.

Area	Total
Accession States — EU	16
Africa	66 (including 46 South Africans & 14 Nigerians)
America	8
Asia	21 (including 14 Chinese)
Non-EU Europe	39 (including 14 Romanians)
Total	150

The statistics are being updated and I will write to the Deputy when the new figures become available.

Garda Deployment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

155 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí in the Cork west division on 1 November 1997 and the number on 1 November 2006. [37040/06]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 12,762 on Friday, 8 September, 2006, following the attestation of 249 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,060 (or 19%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 has resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.

I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of the Cork West Division as at 31 December, 1997 was 223 (all ranks). The personnel strength of the Cork West Division as at 6 November, 2006 was 258 (all ranks). This represents an increase of 35 (or 15.6%) in the number of personnel allocated since that date.

It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Garda management state that such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.

Garda Investigations.

Tony Gregory

Question:

156 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action the gardaí at Cabra Garda station are taking on foot of complaints that children as young as ten years of age are accessing pornographic sites on computers with Internet access in a centre (details supplied) in Dublin 7; if the gardaí have spoken to the proprietor of the premises concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37070/06]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

The figures of total stamp duty yield from residential property over the past ten years are shown in the table.

Year	Residential Property
	€m
1996	149
1997	194
1998	213
1999	263
2000	282
2001	265
2002	349
2003	528
2004	752
2005	945

It should be noted that 2001 was the first year that the stamp duty yield on property was broken down into residential and non-residential property, and so previous years' yields are all estimates which may be less accurate than the figure for 2001.

I have received, as is customary, a number of pre-Budget submissions. These include proposals for change to Stamp Duty. As the Deputy will appreciate, it is not customary to comment on tax changes in advance of the Budget.

Budget Submissions.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

160 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance his views on the budget 2007 submission by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36787/06]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I have received a pre-Budget submission from the organisation concerned. Its contents will be considered in the context of the forthcoming Budget and Finance Bill. As Deputies are aware it would not be appropriate for me to comment in advance of the Budget on possible Budget decisions.

Communications Masts.

Seán Haughey

Question:

161 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Finance when the Office of Public Works will receive reports from its consultants in relation to emissions of non-ionising radiation from two Garda masts (details supplied); when these reports will be made available to this Deputy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36788/06]

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

The reports referred to were issued to the Deputy on 31st October 2006.

Tax Code.

Joan Burton

Question:

162 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the position in relation to the promised review by the Revenue Commissioners in relation to stamp duty avoidance by developers and others through the use of licensing arrangements or the sale of property through the sale of shares in a company; the number of transactions in excess of €1 million that have occurred in each of the past three years; the location of the properties and land; the values of properties in bands of €1 million and upwards; if the Revenue Commissioners have calculated the amount of stamp duty avoided as a consequence of such arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36818/06]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

Stamp Duty is a charge on documents, which are mostly legal documents, used in the transfer of property. Where a property is purchased, stamp duty is charged on the conveyance or transfer effecting change of legal ownership of the property concerned. If there is no conveyance, there is no stamp duty. A builder or developer can, therefore, obtain a licence from a vendor to build on land owned by the vendor without incurring a stamp duty charge at that stage of the venture. Once the buildings, whether commercial or residential, are completed, the conveyances or transfers of such properties to purchasers are chargeable to stamp duty in the normal manner unless specific exemptions are available to such purchasers, for example first time buyers.

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that their review of the use of such measures by developers, builders etc. is ongoing and they will advise me of the outcome of the review as soon as it is completed. As advised on in a previous reply on 27 September, it should be noted however that, as the documentation in relation to such arrangements does not have to be stamped, the information necessary to establish the extent of these practices is not readily available to Revenue. Revenue are progressing the review in a broader context as part of their project on the construction sector in 2006.

Flood Relief.

Michael Ring

Question:

163 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance when a drain at a tributary (details supplied) in County Mayo will be cleaned. [36819/06]

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

However, OPW and Dublin City Council will ensure that any maintenance which is required will be undertaken.

Tax Code.

Denis Naughten

Question:

169 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the number of farmers who have availed of the tax relief on farm swap consolidation since its inception; his plans to review the conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36924/06]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

In Budget 2005, I announced a special stamp duty relief relating to an exchange of farm land between two farmers for the purposes of consolidating each farmer's holding. The relief is contained in section 121 of the Finance Act 2005 which provides that no stamp duty will be charged on an exchange of such lands where the lands are of equal value. In a case where the lands exchanged are not of equal value, stamp duty will only be charged on the amount of the difference in the value of the lands concerned.

The scheme was introduced on 1 July 2005 for a period of 2 years. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that from 1 July 2005 to 31 December 2005 there were two cases of farm consolidation relief. In 2006, from 1 January to 31 September there were 12 cases.

At the Partnership talks earlier this year it was agreed to look at the possibility of extending this relief to cases where only one farmer is consolidating his/her farm holdings. However, as was stated at the time, such a measure will probably need EU Commission approval, which may be difficult to achieve.

Budget Submissions.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

170 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance his views on the Barnardos’ Children’s Budget 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36957/06]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I have received a pre-Budget submission from Barnardos. Its contents will be considered in the context of the forthcoming Budget and Finance Bill. As Deputies are aware it would not be appropriate for me to comment in advance of the Budget on possible Budget decisions.

Tax Code.

Billy Timmins

Question:

171 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Finance the advice given to him by the expert tax advice group since September 2004 on the issue of changes to residential stamp duty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37033/06]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

The Tax Strategy Group is an interdepartmental committee chaired by the Department of Finance, with membership comprising senior officials and advisors from the Departments of Finance, Taoiseach, Enterprise Trade and Employment, Social Community and Family Affairs, Justice Equality and Law Reform and the Revenue Commissioners. Papers on various options for the Budget and for the medium and longer term are prepared for the Tax Strategy Group. Its terms of reference are as follows:

To examine and develop proposals for measures in the areas of taxation, PRSI and levies, for Budget and Finance Bill within agreed Government parameters for the overall Budget position and in the context of the framework of a medium term and longer term strategy set out in the Government's programme, and

To examine the strategic approach for a general social welfare package and to assess the interaction of income tax/PRSI/levies proposals with social welfare proposals including child income support, and in particular the impact of this interaction on the labour market and income distribution.

The papers are published on my Department's website each year, after the annual Budget and Finance Bill cycle. These papers can be accessed at: http://www.finance.gov.ie/ViewDoc.asp? DocId=-1&CatID=18&m=p.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the papers in relation to Budget 2007 will not be published until next year.

Billy Timmins

Question:

172 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Finance the advice given to him by the expert tax advice group since September 2004 on the issue of changes to the tax rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37034/06]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

The Tax Strategy Group is an interdepartmental committee chaired by the Department of Finance, with membership comprising senior officials and advisors from the Departments of Finance, Taoiseach, Enterprise Trade and Employment, Social Community and Family Affairs, Justice Equality and Law Reform and the Revenue Commissioners. Papers on various options for the Budget and for the medium and longer term are prepared for the Tax Strategy Group. Its terms of reference are as follows:

To examine and develop proposals for measures in the areas of taxation, PRSI and levies, for Budget and Finance Bill within agreed Government parameters for the overall Budget position and in the context of the framework of a medium term and longer term strategy set out in the Government's programme, and

To examine the strategic approach for a general social welfare package and to assess the interaction of income tax/PRSI/levies proposals with social welfare proposals including child income support, and in particular the impact of this interaction on the labour market and income distribution.

The papers are published on my Department's website each year, after the annual Budget and Finance Bill cycle. These papers can be accessed at: http://www.finance.gov.ie/ViewDoc.asp? DocId=-1&CatID=18&m=p.

As the Deputy will appreciate, the papers in relation to Budget 2007 will not be published until next year.

Voluntary Sector Funding.

Marian Harkin

Question:

173 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the fact that in excess of 10,500 calls to Women’s Aid helpline went unanswered in 2005, she will make an immediate commitment to give the additional €100,000 in funding already promised by the Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36838/06]

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

The Deputy's question relates to the funding, management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Medical Cards.

John Gormley

Question:

174 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of full medical care eligibility for the over 70s; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36754/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I take it the question refers to the cost of providing medical cards to all persons aged 70 and over, which was introduced in 2001. Therefore, the question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

John Gormley

Question:

175 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost for extending the full medical card eligibility to those aged between 18 and 70; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36755/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I take it the question refers to provision of a medical card to all persons aged between 18 and 69, as people aged 70 and over are statutorily entitled to a medical card. I have asked my Department to make arrangements to provide the Deputy with information on the estimated cost of extending medical card eligibility to this population cohort. The nature of the request will require particular information to be sourced by the Department from the Health Service Executive. On receipt of this information, the cost estimate will be prepared and issued to the Deputy.

John Gormley

Question:

176 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children when the costings for extending full medical card eligibility to under sixes will be available; if she will make these costings available to this Deputy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36756/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

As indicated in my reply to question number 120 of 1st November 2006 it was necessary for my Department to seek particular information from the Health Service Executive (HSE) to allow the estimated cost of providing a medical card to all children aged under six to be prepared. My Department has sought the information in question from the HSE and on receipt of this the cost estimate will be prepared and issued to the Deputy.

Vaccination Programme.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

177 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in introducing a vaccine damage compensation scheme for 16 children who were brain damaged following receipt of a three-in-one vaccine injection (details supplied). [36789/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

In November 1977 the Minister for Health established the Expert Medical Group on Whooping Cough Vaccination to examine persons who, it was claimed, had been permanently damaged by whooping cough vaccination, to review the medical information available in relation to them and to indicate whether, in its opinion, the damage was attributable to the vaccination.

Of the 93 cases presented to the Expert Group, the Group found that there was a reasonable probability that the vaccine was responsible for damage in 16 of these cases. Where there was a reasonable doubt in any case, the Group gave the benefit of that doubt to that person. In 1982, an offer of an ex-gratia payment of £10,000 was made in 14 cases with a further 2 offers in 1984. There was no acceptance of liability on the part of the State or any public authority. Award of the ex-gratia payment was on condition that the persons concerned waived any further liability against the State or any public authority. The Expert Group reviewed all the cases that came before it and is no longer sitting.

I take it the question refers to the introduction of a no-fault compensation scheme as recommended by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children in its report on Childhood Immunisation. The feasibility of introducing a Vaccine Damage Compensation Scheme is being considered by my Department at present and that examination will be concluded shortly.

Infectious Diseases.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

178 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients who have been tested for MRSA in the public hospital system in the past 12 months; the number of those who tested positive for the presence of MRSA; and the number of those patients who were formally told that they had MRSA. [36790/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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. 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.

Health Services.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

179 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that diabetics have an increased risk of eye disease; and her plans to begin a programme of screening for diabetic eye disease. [36791/06]

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

In recent reports Diabetes: Prevention and Model for Patient Care and the Diabetes Federation of Ireland publication Diabetes: Securing the future the issue of a structured retinopathy screening programme has been identified as a priority for Irish patients.

The HSE is responding to the Diabetes policy Diabetes: Prevention and Model for Patient Care published by the Department of Health and Children in 2006 and its specific recommendations. The key issue in screening for diabetic retinopathy is to identify those people with sight threatening retinopathy who may require preventative treatment. There are two main approaches to screening for diabetic retinopathy

Opthalmoscopy and biomicroscopy

Retinal photography and subsequent grading

Screening is usually provided in stationary centres and/or mobile units. In Ireland there is a mobile community unit providing services in the North West. This programme uses digital imaging as the preferred method of screening. Preliminary results are coming back and the HSE are reviewing these at the moment.

At present in the North East region a pilot retinal screening programme for type two diabetics enrolled in the Diabetes Watch scheme is in progress but this currently only covers approximately 1000 diabetics. This service is a mobile service and involves digital retinal photography. It is nurse run and led by a community ophthalmologist with specialist training in retinal disease management. It is linked directly into treatment of detected diabetes in the public hospital system.

An Expert Advisory Group is to be established shortly within the HSE in order to prioritise Diabetes care. This group will act as advisors to the CEO and the HSE and will determine the appropriate strategy and monitor the effectiveness of its implementation through the HSE. One of the priorities identified by the HSE is the roll out of a retinopathy screening programme.

Health Service Staff.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

180 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children if staff working in the public health service have been prosecuted or fined due to breaches of duty of care as outlined under sections 30 (1), (2) and (3) of the Health Act 1947. [36792/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Deputy's question relates to human resource management issues within the Health Service Executive. As this is a matter for the Executive under the Health Act 2004, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

181 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will arrange for a person (details supplied) in County Cork to be called to commence orthodontic treatment; and if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this person has been on the waiting list for treatment since 2003. [36793/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Child Care Services.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

182 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in the provision of child care services under the National Development Plan 2000 to 2006; the funding allocated for such provision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36794/06]

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

The Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme (EOCP) 2000-2006 is funded as part of the two Regional Operational Programmes under the National Development Plan, and is split between two measures: the Childcare Facilities measure (which receives co-funding from the European Regional Development Fund) and the Childcare Measure (which receives co-funding from the European Social Fund and is divided into the Support for Staffing Grants and Quality Improvement sub-measures).

The EOCP aims to increase the availability and quality of childcare to support parents in employment, education and training. The total funding of €499.3 million available under the Programme is now committed.

The following table sets out the amount spent to the end of June 2006 under the Measures.

Measures	Outturn to June 2006
	€m
Childcare Facilities	117.717
Childcare (incl. Support for Staffing Grants and Quality Improvement)	190.789

It is expected that the funding committed under the Programme will, when fully drawn down, lead to the creation of some 41,000 new childcare places, of which 31,750 were already in place by end June 2006. The Programme is also supporting 24,600 existing childcare places.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

183 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress to date of the new child care strategy announced in budget 2006; the investment made in the strategy to date; the investment planned over the remainder of the strategy; the outcomes of such investment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36795/06]

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

As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000 — 2006 (EOCP) and the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), which are being implemented by the Office of the Minister for Children.

The NCIP is a key element of the National Childcare Strategy 2006-2010 and is effective from 1 January 2006. Unlike the existing EOCP, the NCIP is entirely Exchequer funded. The decision by the Government to create a major new 5 year investment programme immediately, rather than wait until the EOCP expired, is evidence of the Government's commitment to the provision of quality childcare.

The NCIP aims to provide a proactive response to the development of quality childcare supports and services, which are grounded in an understanding of local needs. The Programme has a budget of €575 million for the 5 year period 2006-2010, with a target to create 50,000 additional childcare places and with a greater focus on pre-school places for 3 to 4 year olds and school age childcare. The 50,000 new places will include 5,000 after school places and 10,000 pre-school education places aimed at 3 to 4 year olds.

The City and County Childcare Committees (CCCs) now play a key role in the implementation of the NCIP 2006-2010, to enable greater flexibility and responsiveness to local needs. As a result, additional funding has been allocated for the implementation of their 2006 Supplementary Action Plans and the recruitment of additional staff to take account of the CCC's expanded role under the NCIP.

€13.8 million has been allocated under the NCIP to end September 2006. The funding allocated is expected to lead to the creation of over 6,600 new childcare places and to support or enhance over 1,660 existing places.

Water Fluoridation.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

184 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the potential health risks to formula fed infants from their exposure to fluoride due to its incorporation into the public water system; if her attention has been drawn to studies which suggest that formula fed infants are exposed to up to 250 times the daily recommended intake of fluoride due to their exposure to the public water supply; the studies that have been undertaken by her Department to discover the effects of such exposure; the measures she will take to combat this health risk; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36821/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Medical Cards.

Dan Neville

Question:

190 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made in relation to an application for a medical card for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [36827/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Housing Aid for the Elderly.

Dan Neville

Question:

191 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children when work will be completed for a person (details supplied) under the special housing aid for the elderly. [36828/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. This includes responsibility for the operation of the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Accordingly, the Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Dan Neville

Question:

192 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children when work will be completed to a house under special housing aid for the elderly for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [36829/06]

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

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. This includes responsibility for the operation of the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Accordingly, the Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

193 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children when a reply to Parliamentary Question No 236 of 18 October 2006 will be made available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36843/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive (HSE) under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department referred your question to the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive on 18 October 2006 to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy. The HSE has informed me that a reply will issue to the Deputy in the next few days.

Mental Health Services.

James Breen

Question:

194 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of young people currently in adult units of the mental health services. [36846/06]

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

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Ambulance Service.

Paudge Connolly

Question:

205 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to build a new ambulance base in Monaghan town; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36926/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Proposed Legislation.

Liam Twomey

Question:

206 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Health Bill was de-prioritised in the Government legislative programme between 24 April and 27 September 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36927/06]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Fisheries Protection.

John Deasy

Question:

217 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the compensation scheme that he proposes for drift net salmon fishermen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36740/06]

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

The Deputy is aware that the Government adopted the key recommendations of the report by the Independent Group established to examine the implications of fully aligning the management of the wild salmon fishery with the scientific advice in 2007 and beyond. The central recommendation of this report is the creation of a hardship fund for those affected by the compulsory cessation of indiscriminate mixed stock fishing at sea. The Government's primary motivation in adopting the report is that of conservation of the wild salmon species, which has long been regarded as one of Ireland's most prized fish. It is vital to afford every protection to the remaining salmon stocks and to clearly prioritise conservation over catch. The current imperative must be to maintain stocks above conservation limits or at the very least halt the observed decline.

The Government realise that these proposals will entail hardship for commercial fishermen and vulnerable coastal communities. To offset this they have established a hardship fund for those affected. This fund, worth over €25 million, will be available to:

All those subject to a compulsory closure of their current commercial fishery, namely the holders of drift-net licences and some draft net licence holders.

On a voluntary basis, to all those engaged in draft-net, loop-net, bag-net, snap-net, and head-weir fishing

The level of payments will be determined as follows:

Payments should be based on the average verifiable (tag return) catch for each licence holder for the past 5 years (2001-2005).

Payments should be based on the average net income per sal mon in the commercial drift and draft-net fishery for the past 5 years (2001-2005). This is estimated to be €23 per salmon.

Each individual licence holder should receive 6 times their average catch multiplied by the average net income per salmon.

In all cases a payment equal to 6 times the current licence fee in respect of each licence surrendered will be made. For example, in the case of drift-net fishermen, this equals a payment of €2,022. In the case of draft-net fishermen participating in the voluntary scheme the payment will be €1,140.

In every case, those who avail of the hardship fund:

Will no longer be eligible to apply for a commercial salmon licence.

Must verifiably decommission their net(s) or fixed fishing engines to the satisfaction of the competent authority.

Must comply with any other reasonable conditions required to manage the fishery.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 218 to 222, inclusive, together.

Under the Fisheries Acts primary responsibility for the allocation of salmon fishing licences is an operational matter for the relevant Regional Fisheries Boards. In 2002 a total of 883 drift-net licences were issued. In each of the years 2003 to 2005 (the latest year for which figures are available), 877, 848 and 877 licences issued respectively.

The table sets out the number of fish caught with drift nets and by rod and line during the period 2002 to 2005 (the latest year for which figures are available).

Year	Catch by Drift Nets	Catch by rod
2002	179,177	35,024
2003	141,222	31,809
2004	120,303	30,807
2005	101,231	28,738

The detailed breakdown of information requested by the deputy about the catch by geographical location (fisheries district) is available in the Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Fisheries Statistics Report published annually by the Central Fisheries Board and available on their website.

As the Deputy is aware, I appointed an Independent Group to examine the implications of alignment of management of the wild salmon fishery with the scientific advice for r the commercial salmon fishing sector in 2007 and beyond. The Independent group, in their report published recently, calculated the average net income per salmon in the commercial drift and draft net fishery for the past five years (2001 to 2005) and estimated this to be €23 per salmon. The income derived from fishing by each licence holder is dependent on the catch over the period.

John Deasy

Question:

223 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the estimates his Department has of the number of wild salmon being killed annually in Irish coastal waters, estuaries and rivers as a result of infestation by sea lice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36746/06]

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

In the past 15 years the overall marine survival of wild salmon has declined. I am advised that survival of salmon at sea is influenced by many factors including changes in the marine environment itself, predation by marine mammals, seabirds and fish, parasites and diseases, competition for food, by-catch in non-directed other fisheries. It is not possible to completely disaggregate the proportion of the mortality associated with each specific mortality factor.

I understand, however, that in the early 1990's when increased sea trout mortality was associated with greatly increased sea lice levels on the fish no equivalent problem was recorded from salmon. Recent Norwegian studies have indicated that treatment of migrating salmon smolts prior to release may improve survival, however, similar Irish studies are not complete. Research work undertaken by the Central Fisheries Board over the 2003-2006 period, as part of an EU programme, has shown that there has been differential return of treated and untreated hatchery salmon smolts returning to the coast as grilse using the in-feed treatment ‘Slice' against sea lice infestation. This data suggests that sea lice inferred a mortality factor on out-migrating hatchery salmon smolts but it is difficult to extrapolate from the results of this experiment the numbers of wild salmon smolts being killed by sea lice infestation.

John Deasy

Question:

224 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the proportion of people with drift net salmon licences his Department estimates would take up a voluntary compensation scheme to buy out their licences; the proportion of the annual wild salmon catch that would be affected by such a take-up of a voluntary scheme; the basis of such estimates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36747/06]

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

The Deputy is aware that the Government adopted the key recommendations of the report by the Independent Group established to examine the implications of fully aligning the management of the wild salmon fishery with the scientific advice in 2007 and beyond. The central recommendation of this report is the creation of a hardship fund for those affected by the compulsory cessation of indiscriminate mixed stock fishing at sea.

The Government recognise that these proposals will entail hardship for commercial fishermen and vulnerable coastal communities. To offset this they have established a hardship fund for those affected. It is not compulsory to apply for this scheme. The Independent Group estimated that if all drift net fishermen currently engaged in the mixed stock fishery and approximately 50% of draft net and other salmon fishermen were to cease fishing and apply for payment from the fund this would cost in the region of €25m. I expect the National Salmon Commission to bring forward shortly their recommendations for management of the wild salmon fishery in 2007 based on the advice of its Standing Scientific Committee and the National Fishery Managers Executive. This will identify, in compliance with the Habitats Directive, the extent of the exploitable surplus of fish for 2007.

Telecommunications Services.

Michael Lowry

Question:

225 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress to date rolling out the group broadband scheme in north Tipperary; if additional measures are planned to expedite broadband roll-out by various technological media; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36915/06]

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

The service provider approved for grant aid under the group broadband scheme for the provision of broadband in the North Tipperary area has informed my Department that customers have been connected in this area. Despite Government investment in broadband deployment in the regions through the regional broadband programme, there are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband connectivity. Options to address the gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered. Any such options would be technology neutral.

Post Office Network.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

226 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of post offices that have been closed in Cork south west in each of the years 1999 to 2005 and to date in 2006; the names of each of these post offices; the number of post offices that have been downgraded in the same period; the names of each of these post offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37028/06]

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

The matter of post office closures and conversions is, in the first instance, an operational matter for the Board and management of An Post and one in which I have no function. I would refer the Deputy to the table. I have been informed by An Post that their records do not subdivide to lower than county level. Therefore the list details the number and locations of post offices converted or closed throughout County Cork in the years 1999 to 2005 and to date in 2006.

Sub Office Closures	Date of Closure	Sub Office Conversions	Date of Conversion
Lisbealad	14/07/1999	Kilmacsimon Quay	31/10/2002
Ballyvourney	04/02/2000	Johnstown Cork	31/10/2002
Glenlough	29/02/2000	Belvelly	07/11/2002
Cahermore	31/07/2000	Ballymore Cobh	07/11/2002
Courtmacsherry	15/09/2000	Myrtleville	07/11/2002
Dromagh	30/09/2000	Ballincurrig	20/11/2002
Trafrask	10/10/2000	Dunderrow	28/11/2002
Mount Uniacke	02/12/2000	Meelin	06/02/2003
Derinacarah	31/12/2000	Mountpleasant	05/03/2003
Shanlaragh	31/12/2000	Templemartin	05/03/2003
Western Road T.S.O.	03/01/2001	Kilmurry	12/03/2003
Coolea (Cúil Aodha)	31/03/2001	Whitechurch	28/04/2003
Glantane	12/04/2001	Castletownshend	15/05/2003
Washington St T.S.O.	30/06/2001	Butlerstown	28/05/2003
Ballinascarthy	31/07/2001	Dromahane	16/06/2003
Tullylease	31/07/2001	Toames	30/06/2003
Mogeely	11/08/2001	Kilbrin (Castlecor)	10/07/2003
Berrings	31/08/2001	Killavullen	11/09/2003
Taur	10/10/2001	Aherla	15/09/2003
Ballygarvan	08/11/2001	Ballylickey	30/10/2003
Ringaskiddy	23/11/2001	Rathcoole Mallow	01/11/2003
Lissacreasig	13/03/2002	Churchtown Mallow	06/11/2003
Poulanargid	31/05/2002	Caheragh	28/11/2003
Currabeha	12/07/2002	Araglin	12/01/2004
Farnanes	09/05/2003	Carriganimmy	26/01/2004
Knockraha	21/05/2003	Whitegate Cork	12/02/2004
Burnfort	30/09/2003	Newtownshandrum	01/06/2004
Keimaneigh	17/10/2003	Adrigole	27/09/2004
Kilcorney	30/10/2004	Baltimore	23/12/2004
Dennehys Cross T.S.O.	29/01/2005	Freemount	01/02/2006
Church Cross	01/02/2006	Reenascreena	01/03/2006
Kildinan	22/04/2006	Curraglass	23/08/2006
Carrigrohane	02/06/2006	Sherkin Island	31/08/2006

Work Permits.

Gerard Murphy

Question:

227 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when he will introduce a green card system to deal with applications from outside the EU; and if such a system will facilitate existing work permit holders to remain here when their current permits expire. [36797/06]

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

The Employment Permits Act 2006, which was signed by the President in June 2006, provides the legal basis for the introduction of new economic migration arrangements for the labour market participation of workers from outside the European Economic Area (EEA). These arrangements, which will come into effect early in 2007, will comprise:

a Green Card for designated occupations where there are skills shortages;

for other occupations work permits will only be granted for a limited list of activities where it can be demonstrated, following a rigorous labour market test, that suitable employees are not available within the EEA;

the grant and issue of the work permit or Green Card to the employee — on application by either employer or employee;

a re-established Intra-Company transfer scheme for temporary trans-national management transfers.

Current Work permit holders may, on renewal, apply either for a new work permit or, if eligible, for a green card permit if their employment is in the designated occupations.

Industrial Disputes.

M. J. Nolan

Question:

228 Mr. Nolan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will encourage a company (details supplied) in County Carlow to implement the terms as recommended by the Labour Court for a redundancy package for its employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36920/06]

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

On the 26th of April 2006, the Labour Court made a recommendation regarding the redundancy terms for Irish Sugar workers at the Mallow plant. The recommendation provided that redundancy should be 5 weeks' pay per year of service, where a week's pay would be defined as actual finishing salary, excluding overtime, plus statutory redundancy entitlement, plus a bonus payment for an orderly wind-down.

The Court issued two clarifications in May, but these failed to achieve a resolution to the dispute.

The Labour Court invited the parties to return to the Court with a view to resolving the dispute. However, the company rejected the Court's invitation. I very much regret the decision taken by the company in this regard.

The Labour Court issued a third clarification of its Recommendation on the 17th of October 2006. The company has indicated that it is not prepared to alter its offer. Similarly, the trade unions have not changed their position and are not prepared to accept the company's existing offer.

My colleague, Minister Micheál Martin, has met with representatives of both the trade unions and the company and urged them to resolve their differences and to avail of the dispute settling machinery of the State, as necessary. I have also met with union representatives to discuss this matter. The National Implementation Body has also worked with the parties concerned to seek to identify an agreed procedure to resolve the issue in dispute.

Ireland's system of industrial relations is, essentially, voluntary in nature and responsibility for the resolution of industrial disputes is a matter for the parties involved. The system of industrial relations in Ireland is designed to help and support parties in their efforts to resolve their differences, rather than imposing a solution on the parties to an industrial dispute.

Where the Labour Court operates as an industrial relations tribunal in trade disputes, its recommendations are not enforceable. In such cases, the Court hears both sides and then issues a recommendation setting out its opinion on the dispute and the terms on which it considers the dispute should be settled. While these recommendations are not binding on the parties concerned, the parties are expected to give serious consideration to the Court's recommendation. As the Labour Court is a Court of last resort in the industrial relations process, it is expected that the parties come to the process in good faith and, consequently, are prepared to accept the outcome of the process, namely, the Labour Court recommendation.

Social Welfare Code.

James Breen

Question:

229 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will request that farm income will be allowed to be disregarded on the same basis as PAYE farmers income, which has a disregard of €100 per week in assessing eligibility for State non-contributory pensions; if he will stop discrimination against farmers in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36806/06]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

Budget 2006 contained a number of important measures designed to target resources at particular groups of older people, including farmers. In considering these measures I was anxious to target resources at those who are at the greatest risk of poverty, to encourage saving, and to simplify the system of income support for older people who do not receive contributory pensions.

One of the key measures that I was pleased to announce on Budget day, was the establishment of a single standardised pension scheme with a greatly enhanced means testing regime. In September, the State Pension (Non-Contributory) replaced the old age pension and, for recipients aged 66 and over, blind pension, widow/er's pension, one parent family payment, deserted wife's allowance and prisoner's wife's allowance.

All the schemes in question featured a common means disregard of €7.60 per week, which was not increased since the 1970s. The means disregard for the new non-contributory pension is now €20 per week, an increase of €12.40 per week. Over 30,000 pensioners who were in receipt of a reduced rate of payment gained from this change with increases of up to €12.50 per week in the personal rate of payment and increases in the qualified adult rate, where applicable, of up to €8.30 per week. I should point out that these increases were in addition to the increase of €16 per week in the rate of old age non-contributory pension which took effect from January 2006. Furthermore, the new State Pension (Non-Contributory) also features an innovative disregard of €100 per week in respect of earnings from employment. These measures benefit all those farmers who were in receipt of an old age (non-contributory) pension, as well as entitling some to a means tested pension for the first time.

Consequent on the increase in the means disregard to €20 per week, a single person, with no other means, is now able to have up to €35,000 in capital and still qualify for a pension at the maximum rate. This figure is doubled in the case of a pensioner couple.

By any standards, the levels of increases and revised means test arrangements announced in Budget 2006 are exceptional. The modernisation of these arrangements through the introduction of the new state pension is also a further demonstration of our commitment to all those who are elderly including farmers.

Further improvements will fall to be considered in the context of the forthcoming Budget.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

230 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost involved in means testing for eligibility for the non-contributory State pension. [36762/06]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

My Department administers a wide range of means-tested social assistance schemes provided for in Part III of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act, 2005.

The assessment of means is carried out by local social welfare inspectors and in certain circumstances by other staff of the Department where referral to an inspector is not warranted.

My Department currently employs 372 social welfare inspectors throughout the country. They undertake a range of duties including the assessment of means for all social assistance payments, including the State pension, PRSI compliance inspection, control activity and in some cases, specialist control work.

In the circumstances it is not possible to estimate the costs involved in the assessment of means for the non-contributory State pension.

Richard Bruton

Question:

231 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost of doubling the €51 maximum of income over the contributory pension rate which is used to decide eligibility for the fuel scheme; and if he will consider such a measure in the forthcoming budget in view of the increase in the cost of heating fuels. [36800/06]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The aim of the national fuel scheme is to assist householders on long-term social welfare or health service executive payments with meeting the cost of their heating needs during the winter season. Fuel allowances are paid for 29 weeks from end-September to mid-April. The allowance represents a contribution towards a person's normal heating expenses. It is estimated that some 274,000 people (151,000 with basic fuel allowance and 123,000 with smokeless fuel supplement) will benefit in 2006 at an estimated annual cost €125.1m.

Eligibility to the fuel allowance scheme is subject to means and other conditions. People in receipt of contributory pensions which are not means tested, may have a combined household income of up to €51 per week or savings/investments of up to €46,000 or, over and above the maximum rate of state pension (contributory) and still qualify for fuel allowance. This income limit was increased to €51 per week with effect from 1 June 2005. The fuel allowance income limits increase each season in line with the increases in the rate of the state pension (contributory).

The cost to the exchequer from raising the qualifying threshold as outlined in the Deputy's question would depend on the extra numbers who would apply and qualify for the fuel allowance as a result of the measure. An accurate quantification of these numbers is not readily available but it is estimated that it could cost approximately €4 million. Any such proposal will be fully considered in the context of other priorities and of the resources available for social welfare improvements generally.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

232 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in view of the evidence that the extent of the rent support falls far short of that needed by applicants in certain parts of the country, he will review the cap on rent support; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the current cap is leading to homelessness among individuals and families that cannot obtain private rental accommodation at a price within the specified limits; if his attention has further been drawn to the extent of topping up that is occurring resulting in families getting into debt; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36963/06]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive, provides for the payment of a rent supplement to assist eligible people who are unable to provide for their immediate accommodation needs from their own resources and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.

Rent supplements are subject to a limit on the amount of rent that an applicant for rent supplement may incur. Setting maximum rent limits higher than are justified by the open market would have a distorting effect on the rental market, leading to a more general rise in rent levels. This in turn would worsen the affordability of rental accommodation unnecessarily, with particular negative impact for those tenants on lower incomes.

Notwithstanding these limits, under existing arrangements the Health Service Executive may, in certain circumstances, exceed the rent levels as an exceptional measure, for example:

where there are special housing needs related to exceptional circumstances for example, disabled persons in specially-adapted accommodation or homeless persons,

where the tenant will be in a position to re-assume responsibility for his/her rent within a short period,

where the person concerned is entitled to an income disregard AND has sufficient income to meet his or her basic needs after paying rent, taking into account the appropriate rate of rent supplement that is otherwise payable in the case.

This discretionary power ensures that individuals with particular needs can be accommodated within the scheme and specifically protects against homelessness.

In November 2002, when the Central Statistics Office Privately Owned Rent Index first showed evidence of continued reductions in rent levels, regulations were introduced to set the maximum amount of rent in respect of which a rent supplement is payable. These limits remained in place to the end of December 2003. Further Regulations introduced in December 2003 and prescribed the limits to be used between January 2004 and June 2005. The current rent limits cover the period July 2005 to 31st December 2006.

Despite recent increases in rent levels the Central Statistics Office Privately Owned Rent Index shows that rent levels for September 2006 were in line with those which applied in November 2002.

My Department is in regular contact with the community welfare staff of the Health Service Executive regarding the various elements of the scheme. In the course of these ongoing contacts, the prescribed upper limits on rent levels supported under the rent supplement scheme have not emerged as having a detrimental impact on the ability of eligible tenants generally to secure suitable rented accommodation to meet their needs.

My Department are currently reviewing levels of rent limits in order to develop proposals regarding what limits should apply from January 2007 onwards. The review is taking account of prevailing rent levels in the private rental sector generally, together with detailed input from the Health Service Executive on the market situation within each of its operational areas.

The review will also include consultation with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Private Residential Tenancies Board. In addition, a number of the voluntary agencies working in this area have made detailed submissions. This process will ensure that the new rent limits reflect realistic market conditions throughout the country, and that they will continue to enable the different categories of eligible tenant households to secure and retain suitable rented accommodation to meet their respective needs.

The introduction of rent limits by regulation has had a positive impact on the rental market in general by limiting unjustified increases in rent tenants.

It is not necessary for tenants to make up shortfalls in rents, given that the limits are reasonable, they have been reviewed regularly and there is provision for exceptions to be made where necessary.

Road Network.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

233 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the amount received by the State from NTR for its share of the M50 West Link tolls during 2004 and 2005; the percentage of this revenue that was subsequently re-allocated to the Department of Transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37032/06]

Catherine Murphy

Question:

251 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the way he will use the State’s share of the West Link NTR tolls received throughout 2004, 2005 and 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37044/06]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 233 and 251 together.

My Department received €8,044 million in 2004 and €15,093 million in 2005 as the State's share of toll revenue on the Westlink Bridge, under the terms of the agreement between NRA and NTR.

The funds remitted to my Department as a result of NRA's agreement with National Toll Roads are dealt with as Appropriations-in-Aid accruing to the Exchequer. This means that there is no net increase in funding available to my Department over and above the expenditure approved by the Oireachtas under the annual estimates process.

My Department will have expended €1.23 billion, €1.414 billion and €1.507 billion respectively on roads projects in 2004, 2005 and 2006.

Road Safety.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

234 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport his plans in relation to allowing motorcyclists use bus lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36765/06]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The Road Safety Authority has proposed that the issue of allowing motorcyclists access to bus lanes be examined.

The matter is presently under consideration by my Department and other relevant agencies.

Public Transport.

Year	Bus Éireann	Dublin Bus
	Replacement	Additional	Replacement	Additional
1997	70	—	72	—
1998	30	—	78	—
1999	103	—	142	73
2000	89	59	132	93
2001	94	3	56	—
2002	10	—	53	—
2003	68	—	90	—
2004	65	3	36	—
2005	30	—	50	20
2006	—	—	100	*

241 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport when he intends to sign the railway order for the Kildare route project; the reason for the delay in signing same since his announcement of his intention to grant the railway order on 13 August 2006; if the railway order has been referred to the Department of the Environment Heritage and Local Government for its consent; and the estimated timetable for the completion of the project in full. [36858/06]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

As I previously informed the Deputy in my reply to Question No. 1127 of 27 September 2006, I announced my decision to grant the Railway Order for the Kildare Rail Project on 13 August last, in line with the recommendations of the Inspector to the Public Inquiry into the project. The drafting of the Order is currently being finalised between my Department and the Office of the Attorney General. When the Order has been prepared it 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. 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.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

242 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if Iarnród Éireann has advised him of the outcome of its examination of the provision of a Sunday service on the Kildare Arrow line serving Sallins and Hazelhatch. [36859/06]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The scheduling and timetabling of trains is a day-to-day operational matter for Iarnród Eireann and not one in which I have any role.

Public Transport.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

243 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if he has received proposals for park and ride facilities under Transport 21; and the details of same. [36874/06]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

As I have made clear in the past, funding is being made available under Transport 21 for the development of park and ride facilities, which are an important component in persuading people to transfer from private cars to public transport. All new station developments on the Iarnród Éireann commuter networks are designed to include car-park facilities. This is the case, for example, in respect of new stations on the Kildare line being developed as part of the Kildare Route Project and in Cork as part of the Cork Commuter Services Project.

Iarnród Éireann have also been extending car parking facilities at all locations where the company has land available. Parking extensions are currently under way at Mallow, Ennis, and Leixlip Louisa Bridge. My Department is currently funding, as part of Transport 21, a study by Iarnród Éireann into the prioritisation of car-park initiatives across the rail network, with a view to developing a strategic, programmed approach to the future provision of car park facilities. This study will inform the development of car parking facilities under Transport 21. There are currently four Park and Ride sites along the existing Luas network at Red Cow, Sandyford, Stillorgan and Ballally. The RPA propose to open a new park and ride facility adjacent to the Luas Tallaght stop within the next two years with a similar mode of transfer and an anticipated capacity of 450 spaces.

Metro North, the preferred route for which was announced last month, will have two park and ride sites providing parking for over 2,000 cars. One will be located at Lissenhall, north of Swords, and a second at Metro Park, between the Airport and the M50. The Luas extension from Sandyford to Cherrywood, for which I granted a Railway Order during the summer, will have a park and ride site at Carrickmines providing 300 spaces. I also expect that there will be a significant park and ride located at the junction of the N11 and the Luas extension from Cherrywood to the Bray area. The potential routes for this extension are the subject of an ongoing public consultation process by the RPA. I understand that there will also be substantial additional park and ride facilities at key locations along the route of Metro West where it meets national primary routes such as the N2, N3 and N4.

I am also making funding available to the local authorities under Transport 21 for bus park and ride. To date this year, I have received no applications from local authorities for the development of park and ride facilities but I understand that several authorities are considering possible sites.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

244 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if Dublin Bus have advised him of the areas where the additional 100 buses are to be deployed; and if so, the locations of same. [36878/06]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The deployment of their fleet of buses is a day-to-day operational matter for Dublin Bus and not one in which I have any role.

Road Network.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

245 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if he is in negotiations with bodies regarding the M50 toll bridge. [36879/06]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

In considering the matter going forward I will be particularly interested in the views of the Dept of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and An Garda Síochána. It may be the case that initiatives such as this have maximum impact when strongly targeted at specific local areas for defined short periods, rather than being rolled out generally with no specific timeframe.

Grant Payments.

James Breen

Question:

253 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare failed to receive an allocation for the 2005 national reserve in view of the fact that €11 was returned unused. [36803/06]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The person named applied for an allocation of entitlements from the Single Payment Scheme National Reserve under category B.

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 the investment category in respect of the construction of a slatted shed and while his application was initially refused it has since been reviewed following the receipt of further information and now has been deemed to be successful. A formal letter outlining my Department's decision has issued to the person named and payment will issue shortly.

While over €16m has been allocated from the 2005 National Reserve and allocations are continuing, the payments are still ongoing and the total expenditure under the 2005 Single Payment Scheme National Reserve has thus yet to be finalised.

EU Directives.

James Breen

Question:

254 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will produce a user friendly guide on the requirements of farmers under the revised nitrates and phosphates regulations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36804/06]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

An explanatory booklet for farmers, setting out the requirements of the European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2006, has been prepared by my Department in conjunction with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The booklet will be sent to all farmers over the next two weeks along with copies of the Regulations themselves. It will also be available on my Department's website.

In addition, commencing on Monday 20 November, my Department and Teagasc will hold a series of meetings for farmers throughout the country to provide information on all aspects of the Regulations. The dates and venues of these meetings will be advertised in the farming press next week and I would strongly encourage farmers to attend.

An appeal against a decision of my Department in respect of a refusal to approve afforestation grant aid on lands owned by the person in question was received on 1 September 2006. The appeal was fully processed but was not successful. The original decision to refuse approval was upheld on the grounds of landscape environment considerations.

Grant Payments.

Pat Breen

Question:

258 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a grant for a slatted house will be processed for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36809/06]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The person concerned is an applicant under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. Payment of €20,734.97 was made by my Department to the applicant on 7 November 2006.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

259 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when payment of the EU single farm payment and the disadvantaged area payment will issue to a farmer. [36810/06]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

An application under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 15 May 2006.

The 50% advance under the Single Payment Scheme in the amount of €13,342.31 issued to the person named on 31 October 2006. It is expected that payment under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme will issue shortly.

Denis Naughten

Question:

260 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath will receive a decision on their 2005 national reserve application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37027/06]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The person named submitted an application for an allocation of entitlements from the Single Payment Scheme National Reserve under Category B. 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 has been deemed successful under Category B of the reserve on the basis of an investment in suckler cow quota during the reference period.

My Department has issued a formal letter setting out the details of the allocation and payment issued to the person named on 1st June 2006.

Poultry Industry.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

261 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if efforts are being made at EU level to control the importations of poultry, which is subsequently sold as being produced in Ireland or other EU countries due to minor transformation, thus putting the industry here and other EU countries in danger; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37068/06]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

Around 640,000 tonnes of poultrymeat was imported into the EU last year, the equivalent of approximately 6% of consumption. These imports are permitted in accordance with the EU's WTO obligations and are in full conformity with the comprehensive veterinary standards applicable to such products.

Unprocessed third country poultrymeat must bear an indication of the name of its country of origin on the label. It is an offence to mislead the consumer to a material degree in regard to the origin of the meat.

The concept of substantial transformation is the basis used throughout the EU and elsewhere to define the origin of goods as being from the country where the last substantial economic change was made to them. In my view it should not be used to disguise the origin of certain products or to mislead the consumer as to the origin of raw materials. I have made my concerns in this respect known to the European Commission both in the context of the review being carried out by them on "Labelling, competitiveness, consumer information, better regulation for the EU" and in the Council of Ministers as well as in bilateral contact with Commissioners Fischer Boel and Kyprianou.

My intention on poultrymeat labelling is to seek to require in law that information on ‘country of origin' be provided on all poultrymeat at retail level including that coming from other EU Member States and to examine the possibility of extending that to poultrymeat products with a substantial element of poultrymeat in them.

The European Commission has opposed Member States introducing legislation in this area that is in excess of common EU requirements. Nonetheless, my Department is at present in the process of drafting new regulations to require operators to provide country of origin information on poultrymeat, pigmeat and sheepmeat. It is my intention to submit these regulations, when they are finalised, to the European Commission for approval as required by EU legislation. I will also continue to press the Commission to introduce compulsory country of origin labelling on all meats at EU level.

Special Educational Needs.

Finian McGrath

Question:

262 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding support services for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if she will put a long-term educational plan in place for them as a matter of priority. [36748/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department provides a range of supports to second level schools to enable them to cater for students with special educational needs. The supports in question include remedial and additional teaching support, special needs assistant support and funding for the purchase of specialised equipment.

With effect from 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has taken over key functions from the Department of Education and Science in relation to special educational provision. The NCSE was formally established as an independent statutory body on the 1 October 2005 under the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2005. The Council acts under the broad policy direction of the Department of Education and Science but has the resources and the remit to play the leading role in the delivery of education services to children with disabilities/special needs.

The provision of speech and language therapists, occupational therapists and other health related supports is a matter for the Health Service Executive. However, the NCSE co-ordinates with the health services, schools and other relevant bodies regarding the provision of education and related support services to children with disabilities/special needs.

The responsibilities of the NCSE include the following:

Deciding on applications for additional teaching support in respect of children with disabilities with special educational needs at second level;

Deciding on applications for special needs assistant (SNA) hours;

Processing applications for school placement in respect of children with disabilities with special education needs.

The precise model of provision made available at second level will depend on the assessed needs of the pupils involved. Some pupils are capable of attending ordinary classes on an integrated basis with additional teacher and/or special needs assistant support. In other cases, placement in special dedicated classes or units attached to the school may be the more appropriate response. Such special classes operate at significantly reduced pupil teacher ratios. Students attached to these special classes may be facilitated in attending ordinary subject classes on an integrated basis wherever possible.

The NCSE, through the local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) will process the relevant application for resources and inform the school of the outcome. It is important to note that in the case of decisions on additional teaching and SNA support, the SENO will outline the process to the school and parents, where appropriate, and will at the end of the process outline the basis on which the decision was made.

The NCSE has confirmed that additional teaching resources have been granted to the school in question to cater for the special educational needs of pupils enrolled, including the pupil referred to by the Deputy. An application for assistive technology for the pupil in question has also been received and is currently being processed by the SENO.

I am confident that the advent of the NCSE will prove of major benefit in ensuring that all children with special educational needs receive the support they require.

Higher Education Grants.

Seán Crowe

The Parish of Kanturk, on behalf of the school's Patron, is currently engaged in identifying and acquiring a suitable site for the purpose of constructing a new primary school in the town. An assessment of the long term projected staffing, on which the schools accommodation needs are based is currently underway in School Planning Section of my Department.

This assessment will take into account factors such as current and projected enrolment, existing primary provision in the general area and the likely impact of ongoing and proposed housing developments. Once this assessment is complete, the building project required to meet the schools long term accommodation needs will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.

School Transport.

Pat Carey

Question:

266 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science the nature of the scheme for the upgrading of school buses being operated by her Department; if it applies to private bus operators and the operators of minibuses used for school runs in areas where populations do not warrant a large bus; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36782/06]

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science (Miss de Valera)

Contractors are being encouraged to replace larger older buses with more modern buses equipped with manufacturer fitted seat belts, or with buses fitted with seat belt anchorage points by the vehicle manufacturer to which type approved belts have been subsequently installed. The fittings must conform to the standards contained in the guidelines published by the Department of Transport for the installation of safety belts. In general, minibuses tend to be younger than larger buses and come equipped with manufacturer fitted seat belts.

The negotiation and awarding of contracts is an operational matter between Bus Éireann and the individual contractor.

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.

Seán Haughey

Question:

267 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science the aims and objectives of the Education Finance Board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36783/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Indemnity Agreement concluded between the State and religious congregations in June 2002 provides for a fund of €12.7 million to be used by the State for educational programmes for former residents of institutions and their families. Pending the establishment of this fund on a statutory basis, my Department introduced an ad-hoc grants scheme for former residents and their families, which was administered by the National Office for Victims of Abuse (NOVA) between 2003 and 2006.

The Education Finance Board is a new statutory body which was set up under the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse (Amendment) Act 2005 to replace this ad-hoc scheme. I formally established the Board on 17th February 2006 and appointed Mr Dick Langford, former CEO of City Of Cork VEC, as Chairperson along with 8 other Board members, four of whom are former residents.

After deducting some €2.5 million expenditure incurred under the ad-hoc scheme and allowing for interest of some €0.75 million, the Education Finance Board had a net fund of approximately €11 million at its disposal on establishment. This money is being managed by the National Treasury Management Agency on behalf of the Board.

The functions of the Board are laid down in Section 25 of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse (Amendment) Act 2005. The principal functions are:

(a) to pay grants to former residents of institutions and their relatives to assist them in availing of educational services:

(b) to determine and publish the criteria by reference to which it will make decisions on applications for the payment of such grants, and

(c) to make available to the persons aforesaid information in relation to the educational services in respect of which grants are payable.

School Transport.

Pat Breen

Question:

268 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 500 of 3 October 2006, if the transport liaison officer for County Clare has carried out his report (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36811/06]

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science (Miss de Valera)

Under the terms of my Department's Post-Primary School Transport Scheme, a pupil is eligible for school transport if s/he resides 4.8 kilometres or more from the post-primary centre in the catchment area in which s/he resides.

The scheme is not designed to facilitate parents who choose to send their children to a post-primary centre outside of the catchment area in which they reside. However, children who are fully eligible for transport to the post-primary centre in the catchment area in which they reside may apply for transport on a concessionary basis to a post-primary centre outside of their own catchment area — otherwise known as catchment boundary transport. These children can only be facilitated if spare seats are available on the bus after all other eligible children travelling to their local post-primary centre have been catered for. Such children are required to make their way to the nearest pick-up point within that catchment area.

My Department has been informed by the Transport Liaison Officer for County Clare that the students referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied have applied for catchment boundary transport. My Department also understands that there are no spare seats available on the relevant transport service to accommodate these students. However, as the position with regard to spare seats may change from term to term, the parent/students should keep in touch with the local Bus Éireann office in this regard.

Special Educational Needs.

Pat Breen

Question:

269 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science when an autistic unit for Kilrush, County Clare will be operational; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36837/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department sanctioned the establishment of the autism unit at St Senan's Primary School in 2005.

In February 2006, approval was given to St. Senan's National School to commence architectural planning to provide additional accommodation to cater for children with specific special needs. In the interim, the school has been given approval for temporary prefabricated accommodation to cater for the school's needs. Tenders for this temporary accommodation have recently been approved by my Department which is anticipated will be in place shortly thus facilitating the unit becoming operational.

Schools Building Projects.

Richard Bruton

Question:

270 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress that has been made in the past three months on works at a school (details supplied); if an individual in her Department has been assigned responsibility to steer through this project; the critical steps in terms of specification of works, tendering, selection of contractor, completion of works and so on; the target dates for each; and when the Gaelscoil can move. [36850/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

A technical site visit of the proposed school premises for the Gaelscoil to which the Deputy refers was recently carried out by the Department and a technical report is currently being compiled. As soon as the technical report has been examined, the Department will be in contact with the Boards of Management of all the schools concerned regarding the next steps towards advancement of the project.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

271 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the application for capital funding for major capital works for a school (details supplied) in County Wexford; and when a decision will be made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36851/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I can confirm that the Department is in receipt of an application for major capital works from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects and has been assigned a Band 2 rating. Progress on the proposed works will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme from 2007 onwards.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

272 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the building programme for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if the school will be allowed to proceed to stage two of the building programme; the expected timescale of the building project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36854/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The building project for the School referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning and is one of the forty schools that I announced in April of this year to go to tender and construction.

A full Design Team has been appointed to bring the proposed building project through the various stages of architectural planning.

In April of this year a letter issued to the VEC Authorities giving approval to carry out a draft stage 2 (Outline sketch scheme with costings) submission. This draft submission was received in my Department on the 28th September last and, following a review of the submission, a letter issued to VEC Authorities on the 27th October with comments and giving approval to prepare a full stage 2 submission taking on board the comments raised in the letter.

When the complete stage 2 submission is received in my Department, my Officials will arrange a meeting with the School's Design Team in order to evaluate the documentation. It is envisaged that unless there are very exceptional circumstances involved, the meeting will be sufficient to authorise the project to progress to the next stage of architectural planning.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

273 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if a design team has been appointed for the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and the status of the architectural planning phase. [36863/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The process of appointing a design team to the proposed building project at the school referred to by the Deputy has commenced.

On behalf of the Client (the School Board of Management) my School Building Section published the advertisement seeking the relevant consultancy services on the public procurement portal, www.etenders.gov.ie, on 15 August last. The closing date for receipt of expressions of interest under this EU procurement process was 12 noon on Monday 9th October 2006 and all submissions were returned to the Board of Management, in order for them to conduct the assessment of those submissions.

As soon as the Board of Management has completed the assessment exercise, and the School Building Section has ratified their recommendations, the architectural planning phase of the project will begin.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

274 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if the stage three submission of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare has been received; and when this project will go to tender. [36864/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The stage 3 submission for the School referred to by the Deputy has not been received in my Department. The Board of Management as client should liaise with their Design Team to get an estimated date for the completion and delivery of the stage 3 to my Department.

A decision on which school building projects will advance to tender and construction will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

275 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if the outline sketch scheme of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare has been received; and when this project will go to tender. [36865/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The outline sketch scheme for the School referred to by the Deputy has not been received in my Department.

In September of this year a letter issued to the School Authorities and the Consultant Architects on the project giving approval to carry out the combined stage 1/2 (Outline sketch scheme with costings ) submission. When this information is received in my Department, my Department will be in further contact with the school Authorities and the Design Team as to how best to further progress this project.

A decision on which school building projects will advance to tender and construction will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

276 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of her recent repeated comments in relation to fast tracking the building of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare, she will direct her planning section to lodge a planning application for the school in advance of the transfer of the site to her Department. [36867/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The acquisition of a site is the first key step in the delivery of new school projects. The Department has streamlined the design phase for such buildings and uses various innovative methods such as Generic Repeat Designs or Design and Build contracts as mechanisms to enable new schools to progress to planning permission and construction within the shortest possible timeframe. It is intended that the school to which the Deputy refers will be delivered using one or other of these methods.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

277 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a design team has not been appointed for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare, in view of the fact that the contract documents for the site for the new school were signed on 3 July 2006. [36869/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

As I indicated when publishing the various strands of the Department's Capital Programme for 2006, I intend to move through the School Building and Modernisation Programme in a planned way over the next five years. This is possible with the availability of a €3.9 billion multi-annual capital funding envelope (primary, post-primary and third level) over that period to underpin a continuous programme of modernising school buildings.

The Deputy will appreciate that this investment must continue to be targeted using the published prioritisation criteria. Details of projects to move forward under the programme will be published as and when they are ready to be advanced in the context of capital expenditure requirements.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

278 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 656 of 6 July 2006, her views on the fact that the number of pupils in County Kildare who are being taught in classes with more than 24 pupils is 17,319 pupils, which represents 78% of all pupils in national schools in County Kildare; her further views on the fact that she has not fulfilled her promise to reduce class sizes for under nines to 20 or less or if she believes that only 22% of pupils in County Kildare are under nine; and the action she will take to correct this broken Government promise. [36872/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

As the Deputy will be aware, major improvements have been made in staffing at primary level in recent years. There are now 4000 more primary teachers than there were in 2002. The average class size in our primary schools is 24 and there is now one teacher for 17 pupils at primary level, including resource teachers etc. Children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas are getting more support than ever before to help them to make the most of their time at school. Indeed, with the thousands of extra primary teachers hired by this Government, recent years have seen the largest expansion in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education. Furthermore, the Government is committed to providing even more primary teachers next year to reduce class sizes.

As you know all primary schools are staffed on a general rule of at least one classroom teacher for every 28 children. Of course, schools with only one or two teachers have much lower staffing ratios than that — with two teachers for just 12 pupils in some cases and so on — but the general rule is that there is at least one classroom teacher for every 28 children in the school. Next year (2007/2008 school year) this is being reduced to 27 children per classroom teacher.

A further initiative that has been of direct benefit to primary schools has been the change in the criteria for developing schools. For the current school year the threshold for getting a developing school post was reduced specifically to help schools that are seeing large increases in enrolments each year. Over 280 such posts were sanctioned in the 2006/07 school year, compared to 170 in 2005/06.

This Government has shown a clear determination to improve the staffing in our schools and we will continue to prioritise this issue going forward.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 286 to 310, inclusive, together.

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department is delivering a record school building programme which is transforming the standard of school accommodation throughout the country. Details of the rolling series of my announcements on the programme are available on my Department's website.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 311 to 317, inclusive, together.

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department is delivering a record school building programme which is transforming the standard of school accommodation throughout the country. Details of the rolling series of my announcements on the programme are available on my Department's website.

Between 2000 and 2005 my Department invested over €2 billion on educational infrastructure on over 6,500 individual school projects. This investment catered for the construction of new schools, large scale extensions and refurbishments, a wide range of projects under the Summer Works Scheme and a variety of other schemes. The investment in 2006 of over €500m will fund the delivery of over 1300 projects in schools all over the country.

My Department's capital envelope of €3.9 billion will enable my Department to continue to take a proactive and planned approach to the provision and modernisation of school accommodation throughout the country.

Mary Upton

Question:

318 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science if a school (details supplied) in County Meath will be included on the building programme for 2007; if unresolved issues over title for the proposed site will prevent it from being included in the programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37029/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The acquisition of a site with clear title is the first key step in the delivery of new school projects. The Deputy will appreciate the inappropriateness of developing out plans for new schools on lands in any other circumstances. The Department is working to resolve the title issues which have arisen on the site in question through the Chief State Solicitors office.

School Staffing.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

319 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department has a function in determining the number of permanent teaching staff to be allocated to each primary and secondary school throughout the country; if so, the function; if her Department has the authority to specify that certain staff positions be made permanent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [37030/06]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

At primary level, all mainstream class teaching posts allocated under the Primary Staffing Schedule which issues on an annual basis, are regarded as permanent posts.

Learning Support/Resource teacher posts and Resource teacher posts at primary level may be made permanent in accordance with the criteria outlined in my Department's Circular 0036/2006 which is available on the Department website www.education.ie. Posts allocated to primary schools where a teacher is on approved leave, such as a career break, are regarded as temporary.

At second level, teacher allocations are approved by my Department on an annual basis in accordance with generally applied rules based on recognised pupil enrolments on the 30th of September of the preceding school year. The number of posts in any particular school which can be filled in a permanent capacity cannot exceed the allocation warranted by the enrolment and approved ex quota posts such as Principal, Deputy Principal, Guidance and Remedial/ Learning Support. Vacancies in second level schools arising from career breaks, approved leave of absence, or secondments and concessionary posts, which are allocated in excess of a school's normal quota of posts, may only be filled in a temporary or part-time capacity.

Defence Forces Strength.

Billy Timmins

Question:

320 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Defence the number of personnel of officer rank who enlisted under the short term contract scheme since 1994 currently serving in the Defence Forces. [37061/06]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

A total of fifty seven (57) officers were commissioned under short term contract since 1 January 1994. Of these, thirty four (34) are still serving in the Permanent Defence Force. Twenty three (23) of these officers are now serving "without limitation as to time" while eleven (11) remain on short term contract. There are no officers commissioned under short term contract in the Reserve Defence Force.

Billy Timmins

Question:

321 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Defence the maximum service period for officer ranks enlisted since 1994, who are not promoted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37063/06]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

In 1997 agreement was reached with the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) on a new manpower policy for the Defence Forces. This policy, applying to personnel enlisted after 1 January 1994, provided that service for Private Soldiers would initially be for five years with the option to be extended to a maximum of twelve years. Extensions from 5 to 9 years and from 9 to 12 years were subject to the individual soldier meeting certain criteria including standards of medical and physical fitness, conduct and courses attended or period of overseas service. In 2004 PDFORRA submitted a claim under the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for a further review of the terms of service applying to personnel enlisting in the Permanent Defence Force after 1 January, 1994. Following detailed and prolonged discussion on this claim a set of criteria has been agreed. The criteria meet PDFORRA's desire to provide longer careers in the Permanent Defence Force while continuing to address the Government's previously stated objective of having an appropriate age profile to meet the challenges of a modern defence forces. The criteria require that any person re-engaging must be able to continue to operate at their current level both at home and overseas on an ongoing basis. Re-engagements will be subject to the individual soldier meeting specified criteria in regard to physical fitness, medical category, successful completion of military courses of instruction, service overseas and conduct ratings.

Following a ballot of all post 1994 personnel PDFORRA have advised that their members accepted the agreed criteria for re-engagement (after 12 years' service) and continuance in service (after 21 years' service). As a result personnel enlisted after 1 January 1994 may now serve beyond the current 12 year limit.

The maximum service periods for other ranks enlisted after 1 January 1994 are as follows:

Enlisted Personnel, in the rank of Corporal (and equivalent Naval Service rank), may not serve beyond 21 years service.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 322 and 333 to 336, inclusive, together.

Stage 3 of the Enniscorthy Main Drainage Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 as a scheme to commence construction in 2007 at an estimated cost of €13.5 million. A revised Preliminary Report for the scheme received very recently from Wexford County Council is being examined in my Department and is being dealt with as quickly as possible. Last month, I approved the Council's contract documents for the Clonhasten Serviced Land Initiative project, which will service 95 acres of residential development land, and which can proceed as an advance element of the scheme.

Question No. 323 answered with QuestionNo. 98.

John Deasy

Question:

324 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will approve the tender report for contract three for east Waterford water supply scheme, which was forwarded to his Department on 16 June 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36751/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Approval to award this contract issued to Waterford County Council on 2 November.

Waste Management.

Ivor Callely

Question:

325 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the volume of recycled material that is produced weekly; the usage of same; the volume used in the home market; the volume exported; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36769/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The detailed information sought is not available in my Department. National waste statistics for all waste streams are published by the Environmental Protection Agency. National Waste Reports were published in respect of the years 1998, 2001 and 2004. Two interim database reports have been published to provide data on municipal waste specifically (i.e. household and commercial waste) for the years 2002 and 2003 respectively. An interim Report in respect of 2005 will be published shortly by the Agency. As outlined in successive National Waste Reports, the general situation in Ireland is that we are substantially reliant on foreign based materials recycling infrastructure, which dealt with 73.8% of recycled waste in 2004.

The roll out of producer responsibility schemes is contributing to increased recycling capacity and associated new jobs in Ireland. The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations have led to a surge in the collection rates for this waste stream, the creation of over 200 jobs and the provision of three new WEEE reprocessing facilities in Ireland.

The National Waste Report 2004 states that 33.4% of municipal waste was recovered in that year compared with 9% in 1998. The total quantity of material exported for recycling was 891,240 tonnes. Spain and the UK are the principal destinations for recyclables exported from Ireland for subsequent reprocessing, accounting for some 82% of total exports in this area. Europe as a whole accounts for almost 92% of all recyclable waste exported from Ireland for further treatment with the remaining 8% exported to the Asian continent (China being the principal recipient) for reprocessing.

The export of waste is regulated by local authorities, in accordance with Council Regulation (EEC) No. 259/93 of 1 February 1993 on the supervision and control of waste within, into and out of, the European Community. In this context, it should be noted that clean segregated materials are a sought after resource which are freely traded under EU and international law.

While international trade in waste is consistent with Government policy insofar as it supports improved performance in recycling, the Government also recognises the value of a more developed recycling infrastructure in Ireland. To this effect, a Market Development Group was established by Government in 2004 with a view to identifying market opportunities for materials recovered for recycling. The Programme which the Group is developing will identify new applications and markets for recyclable material and secondary recycled products. The Group has been asked to identify barriers to the use and marketing of recyclable material and to develop strategies to address these.

The work of the Group is currently focusing on three priority waste streams: paper, plastic and compost. Among the key issues to be addressed are promoting stable demand for recovered materials and supporting the achievement of economies of scale in the production of products made from recycled materials.

The Market Development Programme is being finalised at present for publication early in 2007.

Homeless Persons.

Ivor Callely

Question:

326 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the estimated number of homeless people in the greater Dublin area; if his attention has been drawn to the more noticeable number of people that are sleeping rough; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36770/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

Local authorities and the Health Service Executive are responsible for meeting the accommodation and health care needs of homeless persons. The Government's Integrated and Preventative Strategies on Homelessness provide the framework within which the agencies fulfil these responsibilities.

Significant progress has been made in the Dublin area over the last number of years in providing for and improving services to homeless persons. This has been facilitated in large part by the Homeless Agency, the partnership body responsible for the coordination of homeless services in Dublin. Rough sleepers have been enabled to access emergency accommodation and homeless persons have been facilitated to move out of emergency accommodation into accommodation more suitable to their needs.

Recent assessments indicate that there has been a welcome decrease in rough sleeping in Dublin over recent years. According to Counted In 2002, the assessment of homelessness in the Dublin area undertaken by the Homeless Agency in March 2002, 312 people self-reported that they had slept rough for four nights or more in the previous week. The number of persons self-reporting as having slept rough for four nights or more in the most recent assessment, Counted In 2005, undertaken by the Homeless Agency in March 2005, was 185 — a decrease of 40%.

In relation to the overall number of homeless persons in Dublin, Counted In 2005 recorded that the number of homeless households in the Dublin area was 1,361 comprising some 2,015 persons and this represented a 19% reduction in the number of homeless households since the 2002 assessment. This was comparable with the experience of the Homeless Persons Unit which saw a 20% decrease in the number of households presenting as homeless in the same period.

The Homeless Agency has as its overarching objective the elimination of long-term homelessness and the need to sleep rough in Dublin by 2010. The Agency is currently in the process of finalising its Dublin Action Plan for the period 2007 to 2010, which will set out the means by which it will achieve this objective.

Housing Policy.

Ivor Callely

Question:

327 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the breakdown of the funding that has been made available over the past ten years under section 10 of the Housing Act 1988; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36771/06]

Catherine Murphy

Question:

352 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the tenancy sustainment programmes supported by his Department for homeless people who have been provided with a housing unit; if he will take further such action in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36956/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 327 and 352 together.

Local authorities are responsible for meeting the accommodation needs of homeless persons. It is a matter for individual authorities to determine the level and category of accommodation and related supports to be provided, having regard to the need for such services in their areas. My Department recoups to local authorities 90% of their expenditure on accommodation and related services, including tenancy sustainment, for homeless persons in accordance with the provisions of Section 10 of the Housing Act 1988. Details of Section 10 expenditure by my Department over the past 10 years are set out in the table.

The figures for 2004 and 2005 reflect a reorientation in homeless accommodation provision from high-cost short-term private emergency accommodation to transitional and longer term accommodation, coupled with a decline in homeless numbers, particularly in the Dublin area. Local authorities operate a wide range of tenancy sustainment services for formerly homeless persons, including the employment of resettlement workers who engage in a variety of such activities. My Department does not have a comprehensive listing of such services. Examples of some recent tenancy sustainment initiatives include the Dublin City Tenancy Sustainment Service, established through the Homeless Agency and operated by Dublin Simon; and the Midlands Regional Settlement Service, operated by Midlands Simon; both of which have been approved for funding by my Department.

In the context of the local authority Housing Action Plans 2004 to 2008, renewed focus is being placed on the provision of long-term accommodation together with the supports necessary to enable homeless persons to move into independent living. Local authorities have been urged to address this issue in relation to their own accommodation and in discussions with the voluntary sector active in the housing area. The need for particular focus on the development of long-term accommodation, with necessary support services such as tenancy sustainment, as opposed to emergency homeless accommodation such as bed and breakfast, is one of the main recommendations of the Independent Review of Homeless Strategies, which was published earlier this year. This issue will be taken forward in the context of a revised Government strategy on homelessness, which is being prepared by my Department.

Expenditure by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government under Section 10 of the Housing Act, 1988
Year	Expenditure
	€m
1996	0.858
1997	6.963
1998	26.376
1999	13.055
2000	15.840
2001	32.056
2002	42.989
2003	49.254
2004	45.720
2005	44.095
Total	277.206

Social and Affordable Housing.

Ivor Callely

Question:

328 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there has been a mid-term assessment of the local authority social and affordable housing plans for the period 2004 to 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36772/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

Emmet Stagg

Question:

341 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will approve the upper Liffey valley sewerage scheme. [36861/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 332 and 341 together.

I expect a decision to issue in this case in the near future.

Questions Nos. 333 to 336, inclusive, answered with Question No. 322.

Question No. 337 answered with QuestionNo. 41.

Dan Neville

Question:

338 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of an improved sewerage scheme for Dromcollogher, County Limerick. [36817/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The Dromcollogher Sewerage Scheme, which is being advanced as a grouped project with schemes for Bruff, Hospital and Pallasgreen, is approved to advance through planning in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007. My Department is awaiting submission of Limerick County Council's Preliminary Report for the project.

Local Authority Services.

Marian Harkin

Question:

339 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the calculation of the cost to the customer of installing water meters on their property is purely a matter to be decided on by the local authority, or if the Government has issued any guidelines on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36839/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Water services providers are required to recover the cost of providing water services from all non-domestic users of these services in accordance with the Government's water pricing policy, reflecting the requirements of the EU Water Framework Directive. This requirement of cost recovery from the non-domestic sector involves the provision of meters, which are necessary to ensure that water charges to users relate to actual consumption and to incentivise all non-domestic users to manage and conserve their use of water.

Cost recovery for the provision of water services means that local authorities must calculate all the costs of providing water to non-domestic users, including meter installation costs, and recover that amount from the non-domestic sector. While detailed guidelines have not yet issued from my Department on the way in which local authorities may secure cost recovery, I envisage that this will be done shortly based on the experience of a pilot billing project in one local authority area.

Road Network.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

340 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the definition of a national road, a regional road, a strategic road and a non-strategic road; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36855/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

In accordance with section 10 of the Roads Act 1993, the classification of public roads, which includes national and regional roads, is a function of my colleague, the Minister for Transport. My Department has no responsibility in the matter.

There is no statutory classification of strategic or non-strategic roads. My Department provides grants to road authorities under a number of grant categories to assist them in discharging their functions in relation to the improvement and maintenance of non-national roads. In this regard, there are two categories of grant for roads which are considered to be of strategic importance. One relates to a scheme of grants for which funding was approved in December, 2000. The aim of this Exchequer funded investment programme is to provide grant assistance for certain roads which facilitate housing and related development in the most densely populated areas of the country where housing needs are greatest. The second grant category was introduced this year for non-national roads which make a significant contribution towards implementation of the National Spatial Strategy.

Responsibility for national roads is a matter for the National Roads Authority which operates under the aegis of my colleague the Minister for Transport.

Question No. 341 answered with QuestionNo. 332.

Local Government Act 2001.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

342 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will issue regulations under the Local Government Act 2001 to allow by order the establishment of new town councils. [36868/06]

The National Strategy on Biodegradable Waste promotes the reuse of textiles. In particular it advises householders to bring good quality textiles to charity and second-hand shops and encourages local authorities to accept waste textiles at recycling centres. There is currently competition between organisations for donations of textiles. Householders should exercise caution in relation to door-to-door collections of second-hand clothes. Genuine charities may benefit from such collections but bogus operators may undermine traditional charity shops.

A local authority has adequate powers to control such activities if it is of the opinion that a person is collecting waste for the purposes of reward, with a view to profit, or otherwise in the course of business. Section 34(1) of the Waste Management Act 1996 requires that any such person must obtain a waste collection permit from the relevant local authority. A waste collection permit is needed for each region in which the person intends to collect waste. It is a matter for individual local authorities to decide if an individual / business is involved in the collection, transport or storage of waste. In making their decision, local authorities are guided by the definition of waste which is set down in the Waste Management Act 1996.

A charitable organisation that wishes to source textiles, either by way of a collection service or by providing bring banks, should discuss the matter in the first instance with the relevant local authority.

Environmental Policy.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

348 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he has taken to tackle the illegal bonfires throughout the country around Halloween time; if he has established a working group to discuss with local authorities ways in which to protect public lands from fire damage and from the associated debris; and if he has considered allocating additional funds to local authorities to allow them to provide safe areas or secure platforms on which bonfires can be lit and supervised by responsible adults. [36945/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

The provision of a fire service, including the assessment of fire cover needs and the allocation of the appropriate level of resources to meet those needs, is a statutory function of the individual fire authorities and my Department has no direct role in this matter. My Department supports the local fire authorities through the setting of general policy, the provision of capital funding, the issue of guidance to fire authorities in relation to fire prevention and operational matters, and other such initiatives. I have no plans to provide any funding to local authorities to facilitate the holding of bonfires at Halloween or otherwise, as the concerns involved related not only to public safety but also to air quality and emission controls.

Over the past 25 years, almost €240 million has been provided to local fire authorities under the fire services capital programme for the provision of new and refurbished fire stations and the purchase of fire appliances and other equipment. This sustained investment means that the fire authorities are very well equipped to address the full range of risks to which they are likely to be exposed. At this stage, over two-thirds of our fire stations, including almost all of the busiest stations, have been replaced, we have a modern fleet of front-line fire appliances, and we have a modern emergency response communications system. In the current year almost €20 million was allocated to the Fire Services capital programme; this allocation is being used to further modernise and update the resources available to the fire authorities. In addition, since 2001, my Department has provided almost €4.2 billion in general purpose grants to assist the local authorities in carrying out their statutory functions, including the provision of fire services.

Local Authority Housing.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

349 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of social and affordable houses each local authority has built in 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36948/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

Data on the number of social and affordable houses in each local authority for each year, and for the first 6 months of 2006, are published in the Housing Statistics Bulletins, which are available in the Oireachtas Library and on the Department's website at www.environ.ie.

In December 2005, the Government launched a new Housing Policy Framework: Building Sustainable Communities, which outlines key principles underpinning housing policy and investment over the coming years. Substantial increased investment in social and affordable housing is outlined in the Framework. The Government have committed in the social partnership agreement, Towards 2016, to further additional investment in social housing with 27,000 new units to be started or acquired over the period 2007 to 2009. It is envisaged that these new units will be delivered through a combination of local authority social housing, voluntary and co-operative sector social housing and long-term contracts for new supply under the Rental Accommodation Scheme.

Over the same period it is expected that some 17,000 units of affordable housing will be delivered. As a result of the various social and affordable housing measures the needs of some 60,000 new households will be met over the period 2007-2009.

Planning Issues.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

350 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of money each local authority has received from developers in 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006 as part of their obligations under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36949/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

Information to end June 2006, on activity under Part V, in each local authority area is on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

Traveller Accommodation.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

351 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount each local authority has received in funding from his Department in relation to the provision of accommodation for Travellers in 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006. [36950/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

Travellers are accommodated in standard local authority accommodation funded through the local authority social housing programme as well as through the provision of Traveller specific accommodation. The Table sets out the funding provided by my Department to local authorities in respect of the provision of new, and the refurbishment of existing, Traveller specific accommodation in 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006.

Local Authority	2004	2005	2006
Carlow County Council	500,000	1,080,000	440,000
Cavan County Council	1,098,807	413,628	0
Cavan Town Council	0	0	0
Clare County Council	2,143,700	3,140,773	69,252
Cork City Council	2,589,787	319,695	351,680
Cork North	3,810	3,810	0
Cork South	0	611,027	152,539
Cork West	0	147,303	25,897
Donegal County Council	214,768	5,965	396,117
Letterkenny Town Council	0	0	0
Dublin City Council	5,879,780	3,853,336	214,060
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown	2,808,116	625,212	644,730
Fingal County Council	2,054,890	2,923,558	380,010
South Dublin County Council	7,288,781	8,553,737	5,456,661
Galway City Council	1,240,528	0	513,139
Galway County Council	1,234,327	1,610,336	456,382
Ballinasloe Town Council	0	0	0
Kerry County Council	147,379	33,060	0
Tralee Town Council	0	108,078	0
Kildare County Council	176,249	507,417	46,980
Kilkenny County Council	43,700	551,600	475,135
Kilkenny Borough Co.	0	0	0
Laois County Council	502,197	5,080	8,800
Leitrim County Council	137,700	137,342	1,274,974
Limerick County Council	57,013	3,350,323	1,491,992
Limerick City Council	5,499	31,000	215,971
Longford County Council	0	0	0
Longford Town Council	0	0	0
LouthCounty Council	0	53,002	0
Dundalk Town Council	377,620	7,620	3,809
Drogheda Borough Co.	145,514	0	0
Mayo County Council	965,697	625,495	5,800
Meath County Council	1,846,573	1,304,278	131,749
Navan Town Council	0	0	0
Monaghan County Council	1,056	2,750	622
Offaly County Council	307,215	33,140	7,635
Tullamore Town Council	0	1,672,666	0
Birr Town Council	0	238,100	0
Roscommon County Council	1,263,798	2,154,740	1,177,377
Sligo Borough Co.	18,287	2,315	0
Sligo County Council	21,465	359,363	256,655
North Tipperary County Council	270,012	204,560	0
South Tipperary County Council	233,051	0	0
Tipperary Town Council	50,000	200,000	359,800
Clonmel Borough Co.	270,000	52,000	0
Waterford City Council	79,203	0	809,000
Waterford County Council	0	0	2,000
Dungarvan Town Council	48,307	31,200	0
Westmeath County Council	500,000	162,710	0
Wexford County Council	601,644	0	1,296,877
Wexford Borough Co.	0	0	0
Wicklow County Council	565,237	1,818,362	0
Wicklow Town Council	0	30,000	0
Bray Town Council	0	35,419	0

Question No. 352 answered with QuestionNo. 327.

Question No. 353 answered with QuestionNo. 23.

Housing Policy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

354 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the way it is intended that applicants for shared ownership or annuity loans, set at a maximum of €185,000 are expected to be able to acquire a home in view of the average cost of a dwelling at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37047/06]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

355 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of applicants for shared ownership of annuity loan in the past 12 months; the number approved; the number drawn down; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37048/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 354 and 355 together.

The loan limit for the Shared Ownership Scheme was reviewed and increased with effect from 1 January 2006. The maximum loan that may be advanced by a local authority in respect of the share of the dwelling being purchased (minimum 40%) is €185,000. While the cost of a dwelling may substantially exceed this amount, the borrower's income must be sufficient to meet the financial commitments involved under the scheme. Accordingly, local authorities may also apply a house purchase price upper limit to reflect local market conditions, to ensure priority of funding for lower income groups and to avoid any significant impact on house prices in their area.

Local authorities assess each application for shared ownership on its merits, having regard, in particular, to the applicant's ability to make the necessary mortgage and rent payments. They ensure, in determining the level of finance approved or house price, that monthly outgoings do not exceed 35% of net household income.

Returns provided to my Department by local authorities indicate that in the twelve months ending 30 June 2006, a total of €115.3 million was drawn down in respect of 708 borrowers under the Shared Ownership Scheme. Detailed information on the number of applicants and number approved for shared ownership loans in each local authority area is published in my Department's Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library and also on the Department's website at www.environ.ie.

The improvement and realignment of non-national roads and bridges in County Kildare is a matter for Kildare County Council to be funded from its own resources supplemented by State grants provided by my Department.

In July this year, my Department sought applications from road authorities for funding under the 2007 EU Co-Financed Specific Improvements Grant Scheme. Kildare County Council submitted a number of applications but these did not include an application for funding for Bond Bridge.

Questions Nos. 359 and 360 answered with Question No. 24.

Local Authority Housing.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

361 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of persons currently on the various local authority housing waiting lists; when he expects this demand to be met in full; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37055/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

The statutory assessment of housing need is undertaken by local authorities on a triennial basis. The most recent assessment of need for social housing was undertaken by local authorities in March 2005. The results of that assessment indicated that there were 43,684 households on local authority housing waiting lists. More comprehensive data in relation to the 2005 assessment at an individual local authority level was published in the Annual Bulletin of Housing Statistics, a copy of which is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.

My Department has successfully promoted a range of measures to provide additional social housing in recent years, and is committed to maintaining a strong programme of social housing provision into the future. In the coming three year period 2007-2009 we are specifically committed to further additional investment in social housing with 27,000 new units to be started over the period. This will include the commencement/ acquisition of an additional 4,000 new housing units through a combination of local authority, voluntary and co-operative housing and RAS long-term contractual arrangements for new supply as provided for under Towards 2016.

Air Pollution.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

362 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has studied data from the various air pollution monitoring locations throughout the country; the action or actions he proposes to take to address the most prominent features of the information; the pollutants most seriously in need of attention; his plans to address the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37057/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

I refer to the reply to Question No. 334 of 4 October 2006. The position is unchanged.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

363 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number and location of sewerage schemes currently awaiting approval or funding in his Department; if lack of progress in each or any case is likely to lead to pollution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37058/06]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Roche)

Schemes currently approved for funding are set out in the Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library. Earlier this year my Department asked local authorities to undertake fresh assessments of the needs for capital water services works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. In carrying out the assessments, authorities were required take into account specific criteria, including compliance with national and EU environmental requirements and standards. The updated needs assessments will inform the selection of new schemes for inclusion in future phases of my Department's Water Services Investment Programme.

Question No. 364 answered with QuestionNo. 27.

Question No. 365 answered with QuestionNo. 118.

Housing Grants.

Billy Timmins

Question:

366 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of funding allocated by Wicklow County Council, Arklow Town Council, Bray Town Council and Wicklow Town Council for the essential repair grant schemes for 2006; if additional funding was requested; if such funding is available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37064/06]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)

It is a matter for local authorities to decide on the level of funding to be provided for the essential repairs grant scheme in their area from within the allocation notified to them by my Department for disabled persons and essential repairs grants and to manage the operation of the schemes from within this allocation. Allocations are notified to county councils in respect of the all local authorities within a county.

My Department recoups to local authorities two thirds of their expenditure on the payment of individual grants, with local authorities funding the remaining one third from their own revenue resources with amounts provided for that purpose in their annual budget. The combined capital allocation notified by my Department to Wicklow County Council for the payment of disabled persons and essential repairs grants in 2006 was €2,010,000. My Department is continually monitoring expenditure patterns of local authorities for the schemes to ensure that the resources being made available are utilised to the maximum extent possible. Wicklow County Council has not requested any increase in their 2006 allocation.

Dáil Éireann debate - Wednesday, 8 Nov 2006

Litter Pollution.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Wildlife Protection.

Joe Callanan

Local Authority Funding.

Gerard Murphy

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Denis Naughten

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Brian O'Shea

Rental Accommodation.

David Stanton

Housing Management Companies.

Jimmy Deenihan

Waste Disposal.

Ruairí Quinn

Recycling Policy.

Brendan Howlin

Dan Neville

Nuclear Plants.

Michael Noonan

Emmet Stagg

Jack Wall

Register of Electors.

Olivia Mitchell

Martin Ferris

Thomas P. Broughan

Gay Mitchell

Thomas P. Broughan

Ciarán Cuffe

Jim O'Keeffe

Election Management System.

Eamon Gilmore

Seymour Crawford

John Perry

Eamon Gilmore

Fergus O'Dowd

Pat Breen

Pat Breen

Bernard J. Durkan

Bernard J. Durkan

Planning Issues.

Catherine Murphy

Abolition of Dual Mandate.

Bernard J. Durkan

Bernard J. Durkan

Planning Issues.

Paul McGrath

Housing Grants.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Litter Pollution.

Dan Neville

Fire Service.

Eamon Ryan

Election Management System.

Arthur Morgan

Waste Management.

Paul Kehoe

Planning Issues.

Ivor Callely

Séamus Pattison

Local Authority Housing.

Phil Hogan

EU Directives.

Brian O'Shea

Social and Affordable Housing.

Paul Connaughton

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Joe Callanan

Local Authority Housing.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Catherine Murphy

Joan Burton

Damien English

Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 Nov 2006