Vol. 627 No. 6
75 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the discussions he has had with ComReg and the action he will take in view of the recent problems experienced by customers of Smart Telecom as a result of their service being discontinued by Eircom; the measures to be put in place to ensure that consumers are not subjected to similar situations in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38822/06]
The telecoms market in Ireland is fully liberalised and open.
Statutory responsibility for the regulation of the electronic communication sector rests with the independent regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), under the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the Regulations transposing the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications Networks and Services.
As the Minister with responsibility for policy in the sector, I am concerned about the disruption and inconvenience caused to so many customers. A number of steps have been taken by the Regulator to ensure that disconnected customers can move to alternative service providers and have a telephone service restored to them.
76 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is prepared to implement any of the measures from the new 75 step programme to tackle energy inefficiency and increase energy awareness and conservation across the EU that was recently brought forward by the Energy Commissioner, Mr. Andris Piebalgs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38832/06]
The Energy Efficiency Action Plan for Europe presented by the Commission sets out a very comprehensive range of proposed policies and measures aimed at realising at least 20% savings in EU energy consumption by 2020.
Its related objective is to provide EU citizens with the most energy efficient infrastructure, buildings, appliances, processes, transport and energy systems.
Energy efficiency has the potential to be the most effective and economical means of delivering on the challenge of reducing import dependence, reducing the energy demand and reducing CO2 emissions.
The Commission's ambitious Action Plan is to be welcomed in terms of its overall approach. The Plan sets out 10 priority actions for transport, built environment power generation, economic sectors and individual consumers. The actions are underpinned by a large programme of 57 measures which the Commission will progressively propose to Council and Parliament up to 2012.
The Council of Energy Ministers will discuss the Action Plan this week and I fully expect colleagues to share my view that this is a very welcome plan. Obviously the debate on the very many individual actions proposed in the plan will continue into the future. But the immediate requirement is to endorse the overall thrust of the plan and encourage the Commission to move ahead rapidly.
It is essential that we have effective co-ordination and synergies between National Energy Efficiency Action Plans and action at Community level. Member States need to retain room for manoeuvre depending on specific circumstances.
I recently launched the multi annual national energy efficiency campaign Power of One which is the umbrella for a comprehensive series of actions on energy efficiency to be rolled out over the next 12 months. Energy Efficiency is a cornerstone of Irish Energy policy as it is for European Energy Policy. I look forward to working in Europe and here at home to deliver the very considerable dividend which energy efficiency offers.
77 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in regard to the separation of TG4 from RTÉ; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38794/06]
The Government is committed to supporting the development of Irish language broadcasting, and to the establishment of TG4 as an independent public service broadcaster.
In mid 2005 I appointed consultants to assist in the preparation of a detailed implementation plan for the establishment of TG4 as an independent entity. The consultants submitted their final report to my Department by end 2005. This report outlined the most appropriate methodology and structure for giving effect to the separation of the assets and trade of TG4 from RTÉ and establishing TG4 as an independent entity.
Following consideration of this report, the Government has agreed to establish TG4 as an independent body as provided for in Part VI of the Broadcasting Act, 2001 on 1 April 2007.
A Project Management Group, chaired by the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and comprising representatives of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, RTÉ and TG4, has been appointed to oversee the implementation of this task. Good progress has been achieved by the Group to date.
I am glad to say that, on this, the tenth anniversary of TG4's first broadcast, I have been able to secure the provision of an additional funding for TG4 in 2007 of the order of €2.5million. It is also proposed that similar increases would be provided for in each of the years 2008-2010. This additional funding will allow TG4 to improve its Irish language schedule and reduce its repeat ratio.
78 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress made with the European Union in establishing new recording mechanisms for fishing boats operating under the common fisheries policy to ensure that there is instantaneous electronic recording of all catches and landings. [38789/06]
There is great need to make full use of communications technologies in the monitoring and control of fishing activity. Over the past two years, the Department and the Naval Service have developed new information management systems in the fisheries area which are proving effective in the monitoring, recording, analysis and reporting of fishing activities.
An example is the installation of a Vessel Monitoring System on every vessel over 15m that facilitates the tracking and monitoring of vessels fishing in EU waters, including Ireland's Exclusive Fisheries Zone.
Along with Minister Browne, I have strongly pushed for the use of new technologies that would strengthen Ireland's capabilities to monitor and control fishing activity, including giving the Naval Service access to catch levels of vessels in advance of boardings. In this regard, Ireland has been at the forefront in pushing for the introduction of electronic logbooks and have worked closely with the EU Commission on the early adoption of their proposal.
The proposal for an EU Council Regulation on Electronic Recording and Reporting of fishing activities and on means of remote sensing is on the agenda for decision at the Council of Ministers meeting in Brussels today, which my colleague — Minister of State John Browne — is attending. This Regulation has two main aims:
1. To oblige fishing vessels to record and submit their logbooks, transhipment declaration or their landing declarations electronically, at least once a day. The first sales notes should also be electronically recorded;
2. To require Member States to be able to monitor and locate their vessels and match this with their VMS system in order to assess the presence of fishing vessels in a particular area.
Minister Browne will be pushing for the adoption of this Regulation at today's Council, which we believe will deliver efficiencies for our control services. It is particularly important for Ireland because of our disproportionately large European Economic Zone (EEZ) and the high level of activity by other EU vessels in our waters.
The use of electronic fishing logbooks will also facilitate earlier and more accurate transmission of data, direct from the fishing vessel, rather than after the vessel returns to port as in the current manual system.
The introduction of the Commission's proposal is, I am convinced, a major step forward in giving the control authorities tools to effectively address illegal fishing and the non-recording and the misreporting of landings.
79 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the recent new €2.2 million package to develop the Irish aquaculture sector; where these measures will be targeted; if he will bring forward a national aquaculture strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38842/06]
Given that there are a number of important issues facing the Irish aquaculture sector, €2.2m was recently identified within the BIM budget to support a number of technical initiatives.
The package will target six projects:
Technical Environmental Support Programme, TESP,
Resource Development Grant, RDG, Pilot Projects
Carrying Capacity Project
Technical Aqua Equipment
Technology Transfer Project
Salmon Ova Hatching Capacity.
These projects range from:
the interdisciplinary study of the carrying capacity of bays, which will estimate the level of aquaculture a bay can sustain, thus optimising the development of aquaculture in these areas;
to testing the potential impact of the use of renewable fuel sources, such as biomass, which would act as an alternative energy source to a sector highly dependent on electricity; and
the provision of biosecure salmon ova hatching capacity.
As regards the formulation of a National Aquaculture Strategy, the Seafood Strategy Review Group was established by myself and the Minister of State in June 2006 with the objective of consulting with all stakeholders, including the Aquaculture sector, to devise a strategy for the entire Seafood industry under the 2007-13 National Development Plan. The over arching aim of this Strategy will be to deliver a sustainable and profitable seafood industry in Ireland. I expect to receive the report of the Seafood Strategy Review Group within the next two to three weeks.
The achievement of this Strategy will require the taking of a set of integrated, market led actions to improve competitiveness and profitability across all the sectors of the industry — including aquaculture — by targeting investment so as to achieve the highest level of value generation.
Given that Ireland is no longer a low cost economy, constant improvements in efficiency are required of our Aquaculture sector for it to remain competitive. Therefore, our objectives going forward must be to further develop environmentally sustainable farming techniques, including organic farming, and achieve successful diversification into new species, while ensuring that the highest international quality standards are met.
80 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to provide cutting edge telecommunications technology in all areas throughout the country, urban and rural; if he has had discussions with interested parties with a view to expanding, extending and improving the service and its availability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38755/06]
I meet with industry and interested parties on a regular basis in pursuit of my objective to facilitate the widespread availability of competitively priced broadband in Ireland.
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises.
The Department also offered funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
81 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his policy in regard to the future of An Post and the retention of the maximum number of upgraded post offices throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38776/06]
The future of the post office network and the upgrading of post offices are a matter in the first instance for the board and management of An Post. As set out clearly in the Programme for Government, this Government and the board of An Post, are committed to the objective of ensuring the continuation of a viable and sustainable nationwide post office network. The precise number of post offices is a matter in the first instance for the board and management of the company and one in which I have no function. The challenge for stakeholders in An Post is to generate sufficient profitable business to maintain the network at its current size.
It was in this context that I asked the company to ensure that any strategy for the development of the company should ensure the long-term viability of the post office network.
It was to this end that the Government recently gave its approval for An Post to enter into a joint venture agreement with Belgian Bank, Fortis, to set up a retail banking business. This will entail the provision of a range of financial services operated through the post office branch network, using the An Post brand and other An Post assets. Key to the Government approval of this joint venture was that it not only offers a real opportunity for the growth and development of An Post and the post office network but that it will, in time, greatly benefit the income streams of postmasters.
With regard to the automation of post offices, the company has recently completed a pilot project in which ten smaller post offices were fully automated.
It is intended to evaluate the business generated and the income gains in these newly automated offices, in order to see if there is a justified commercial case for further automation of non-automated offices. There are currently 386 non-automated post offices in the country which account for just over 2% of the current business of the network.
82 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which an evaluation has been carried out of the use of bio-diesel for domestic heating purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38809/06]
86 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has examined the various options available in terms of bio-fuels with particular reference to the growing of energy crops; the extent to which any one of the alternatives is most attractive in terms of meeting the requirements and cost effectiveness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38815/06]
121 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has examined the merit of introducing further incentives to promote the production of energy crops as an alternative to the payment of fines for failure to comply with Kyoto; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38816/06]
161 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options in respect of the development of the alternative energy sector with particular reference to the need to generate adequate import substitution to assist in safeguarding security of supply and meeting the Kyoto principles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38814/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 82, 86, 121 and 161 together.
The development of an Irish biofuels market and the increased development and deployment of bio-energy resources in Ireland is a key priority. Biofuels and biomass strategies are critical components of the Government's energy policy objective to significantly enhance the contribution of renewable energy sources to the electricity, heat and transport sectors.
A range of initiatives are already in place to support the development of a biofuels sector. The biofuels excise relief scheme is creating significant opportunities for the development of pure plant oil, biodiesel and bioethanol processing facilities in Ireland and also provides economies of scale and commercial returns for processors. In that context, the technical feasibility for promoting usage in the domestic and commercial heating sector will be progressed as part of the strategy to optimise the potential of the bioenergy resources right across the spectrum.
The 2005 pilot mineral oil tax relief scheme for biofuels resulted in eight projects being awarded excise relief for a two year period under the scheme.
Building on the success of this scheme I launched the Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Scheme II, valued at over €200m, in July last. The excise relief scheme will enable us to reach the initial target of 2% market penetration of biofuels by 2008. The Green Paper proposes to double this to a target of 5.75% biofuel market share by 2010. The scheme will underpin the production and use of some 163 million litres of biofuels each year. Applications received under the scheme are currently being assessed and the results will be announced shortly.
One of the related aims of the new scheme is to send the necessary market signal to stimulate the development of biomass/feedstock production to support a sustainable domestic biofuels industry. There are considerable benefits to be accrued from a cohesive approach to bio energy and biofuels for both the demand and supply sides. The Government has made it clear that a fully cohesive approach by all relevant Departments and Agencies is key to delivering on the bioenergy agenda.
The Ministerial Bio Energy Task Force is overseeing the finalisation of the national bio-energy strategy which will set out the roadmap for bioenergy development and deployment. This strategy is taking account of EU developments, and the Energy Policy Green Paper consultation process.
83 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department retains the bond for £420,000 lodged by the Drogheda Port Company in 1998 in relation to the mussel productivity levels of an association (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38844/06]
It has not been possible to provide a comprehensive answer to the Deputy within the time available. This matter goes back a number of years and to fully respond to the Deputy's question will require further examination of the detailed records held in my Department and possible consultation with third parties.
I am, however, arranging to have the matter comprehensively examined and I will write to the Deputy at an early date with full information on the issue raised.
84 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the full extent of the GSI with particular reference to the extent to which modern technology has been used to update this information; if he will restore the GSI Bill to the Order Paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38803/06]
Earlier this year, the Geological Survey of Ireland, in cooperation with the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, published a new 1:500,000 bedrock geology map of the island of Ireland. This map takes into account new information acquired by both surveys over recent years arising, for example, from ongoing surveying of the island, major infrastructural developments and drilling. The map is compiled and produced using the latest Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology. GSI has been a pioneer in the use of this technology in mapmaking since 1994.
As regards the GSI Bill the position is, as advised in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 32 of 19th October 2006, that my Department is separately, considering whether there is a case for converting the GSI from a division of the Department into a stand–alone agency. The question of advancing legislation is in abeyance pending the outcome of that consideration.
85 Mr. English asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources further to Parliamentary Question No. 148 of 9 November 2006, the options being considered to ensure full connectivity of broadband, telephone and mobile phone services to those parts of the country such as the Black Valley, County Kerry which do not have access to a reliable and quality service; the groups, bodies, agencies or individuals with whom he is having discussions; when he expects to reach a conclusion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38792/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, telephone and mobile phone services is a matter in the first instance, for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), the independent regulator.
As regards the deployment of broadband infrastructure, it has been clear for some time that the sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. My aim is to see a situation where every reasonable request for broadband will be met at a reasonable price. I expect to finalise my proposals shortly.
87 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the Government’s position on the recent EU discussions on the extension of the Television Without Frontiers Directive to the internet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38843/06]
The Television Without Frontiers Directive, which was first adopted in 1999 and updated in 1997, aims to create the conditions necessary for the free movement of television broadcasts within the European Community.
The development and application of digital technologies, combined with other developments in the broadcasting markets, are changing the reality of European broadcasting. To address these changes the European Commission published its proposal for a revised Directive in December 2005.
The Commission, as part of its proposal, has proposed two new definitions to describe the services that would be covered by the revised Directive. These definitions are aimed at giving certainty in a rapidly changing audiovisual media services landscape.
The first of these definitions relates to ‘linear services', which would include those services that have the same characteristics as a television broadcasting service and are available to all viewers at the same time, for example, traditional scheduled broadcasting, via traditional TV, the internet, or mobile devices. The logic is that the medium used to deliver the service does not matter. The same regulation should apply to the same type of services regardless of the type of technology used to deliver the service.
The second definition relates to the proposed introduction of a new definition of non-linear services. These are services that are not delivered to all viewers at the same time, for example, services such as video-on-demand. These services are sometimes described as services where the viewer ‘pulls' content from a network. The Commission proposes that a basic tier of rules would apply in the case of non-linear services.
I have supported the two-tier approach taken by the Commission while expressing the view that there is a need for as much clarity as possible regarding the identification of the new services that would come within the reach of the new Directive.
The Finnish Presidency's text was discussed at Council on 13th November and included amendments which proposed a definition for television programmes and explicitly excluded user generated content, which is primarily non-economic and not in competition with television broadcasting. The Directive will be considered by Parliament, under the co-decision procedure, in December.
88 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has issued policy directives through An Post, directly or through the Regulator, in regard to the future development of the postal and packaging services throughout the country having due regard for compliance with EU directives and the retention of a nationwide efficient and cost effective postal service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38772/06]
I have issued no policy directions to An Post, either directly, or through the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) in recent times in relation to the development of the postal services.
An Post operates within a regulatory framework as enshrined in EU and Irish law and therefore, the universal service obligation, which includes nationwide postal delivery requirements, is a statutory requirement for An Post, as the designated universal service provider. This is set out in Statutory Instrument 616 of 2002 European Communities (Postal Services) Regulations.
The Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in accordance with the provisions of S.I. 616 of 2002 European Communities (Postal Services) Regulations, is responsible for the monitoring, measurement and regulation of the postal sector including measuring the levels of service to be achieved by An Post and ensuring that the company abides by its statutory universal service obligations.
Furthermore, the regulations also provide for the liberalisation of the postal sector. Liberalisation has already commenced and the current postal directive is due to expire on 31 December 2008 and the postal market will, subject to political agreement, be fully liberalised across the EU on 1 January 2009.
Issues that will be important for Ireland in the context of any new directive will include the protection of the universal service in a liberalised market, ensuring that Irish citizens continue to receive a broad suite of postal services and the continued viability of An Post in the face of open competition.
89 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the lessons which can be learned from the most recent power blackout throughout Europe; the steps that can be taken to prevent such an occurrence here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38768/06]
Security of supply in relation to electricity in Ireland is the statutory responsibility of the independent Regulator, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER). The independent Transmission System Operator (TSO), EirGrid, monitors the adequacy of generation capacity over time and reports to the CER accordingly.
I am advised by the CER that the Council of European Energy Regulators (CEER), of which CER is a member, is currently undertaking an urgent enquiry on the blackout which occurred across central Europe on Saturday 4 November. The aim of this enquiry is to provide some preliminary advice before the end of the year and a full report on the event not later than February 2007.
While the outcome of this inquiry is awaited, the CER understands from initial information available from the German federal grid regulator that the blackout may be attributable to simple human error.
The CER advise me that a similar situation is unlikely to occur in Ireland as we operate a closed Island Grid system at this point. The CER has also ensured significant levels of investment in the Irish transmission system in recent years with plans for continued investment to the end of this decade. Between 2002 and 2010, almost €1 billion will be invested in the Irish transmission system, which will ensure, to the greatest extent possible, that the system is capable of handling exceptional circumstances.
The key lesson nevertheless which can be learned from this blackout occurrence is that no electricity power system can be fully protected from such events and that fast, effective and specific emergency measures must be in place to deal with such incidents.
In any emergency situation in Ireland, the TSO, as part of its licence conditions, has in place a number of specific Emergency Plans to deal with an incident quickly and effectively. Implementation of the plans is at the discretion and under the control of the TSO.
90 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress his Department has made in co-ordinating the existing backhaul networks that are in the ownership of different State owned companies to assist the development of a competitive telecommunications infrastructure for Ireland. [38778/06]
In April 2005 a team of advisers was engaged to examine the potential for enhancing and augmenting existing State owned infrastructure. This team submitted a Feasibility Report in December 2005. The report found that, while technically feasible, there would be considerable financial, legal, regulatory, operational and organisational challenges in harnessing and enhancing the existing State owned infrastructures. It is not my intention to publish the report given the extent of the commercially sensitive information contained in it. My Department is considering options to enhance competitive backhaul connectivity.
91 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if in view of a new Eurostat survey ranking Ireland within the bottom four of States surveyed for household broadband connection rates and due to the fact that Ireland has fallen back yet another place in the OECD broadband league tables he will bring forward measures to address the ever increasing broadband deficit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38854/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
It is accurate to say that the Irish broadband market is currently ranked lower than more developed markets in terms of broadband take-up. This reflects the relatively late launch of affordable and competitive broadband services in Ireland by telecoms and cable companies in the early 2000s.
However, Ireland is now a fast growing broadband market and broadband take-up has more than tripled since late 2004 when I set a target of 400,000 subscribers by end 2006. This target has already been comfortably exceeded. The challenge now to industry is to reach 500,000 subscribers by 2007. If the current growth holds I should be in a position to announce 500,000 subscribers by Spring 2007.
The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the NDP 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises. However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the NDP 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises.
The Department also offered funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
92 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason for the delay in announcing the third call for broadband; when the call will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38707/06]
I am aware of the importance of the roll out of broadband in rural areas and smaller communities. The most recent phase of the group broadband scheme, which provides grant aid for the installation of broadband in rural areas, has closed.
However, the nature of the scheme is currently being reviewed in the context of options being considered for the achievement of nationwide broadband. Ultimately, my aim is to ensure that the most effective and efficient mechanisms are put in place to assist in the roll out of broadband nationally as quickly as possible.
Options to address these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
93 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the full extent of the BT proposals in regard to the provision and facilitation of broadband throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38761/06]
I have no function in this matter. The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. Private sector companies' investment proposals are matters for those companies.
94 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is satisfied all former Smart Telecom customers have been provided with alternative and satisfactory service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38749/06]
99 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position regarding the recent Smart Telecom fiasco; the discussions his Department has held with ComReg and the telecoms industry in this regard; when he will bring forward the emergency legislation that he promised to ensure there will be no repetition of this episode; the regulatory reform he will introduce on foot of this debacle; if he will adopt ComReg’s suggestion of establishing a statutory basis for notice of withdrawal of service by a telecoms operator; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38856/06]
125 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of subscribers whose broadband and telephone service was disconnected in the course of the dispute between Eircom and Smart Telecom; if all such subscribers have been reconnected with full service in respect of both broadband and telephone; the number of reconnections undertaken by Eircom and other service providers; if provision is being made to prevent a recurrence of the outage and inconvenience to customers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38754/06]
164 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals, or the discussions he has had, in relation to preventing another Smart Telecom situation which occurred recently with over 45,000 customers being disconnected in view of his recent commitment to request ComReg to examine the matter in order to prevent such a scenario happening in the future. [38820/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 94, 99, 125 and 164 together.
The telecoms market in Ireland is fully liberalised and open. Statutory responsibility for the regulation of the electronic communication sector rests with the independent regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), under the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the Regulations transposing the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications Networks and Services.
As the Minister with responsibility for policy in the sector, I am concerned about the disruption and inconvenience caused to so many customers. A number of steps have been taken by the Regulator to ensure that disconnected customers can move to alternative service providers and have a telephone service restored to them.
95 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has held discussions with the management of the ESB in relation to media reports of a possible ESB takeover of a company (details supplied); his present views on measures to promote competition in the electricity market here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38824/06]
There is no such proposal on the table.
The Green Paper on Energy Policy has articulated the need to enhance competition in the electricity market as an immediate priority. Structural change to deliver meaningful competition and reduction of market power in generation are clearly signalled as key objectives. The strategies to deliver this are being developed in the context of the consultation process to inform the White Paper.
96 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the support mechanism he is considering for the roll-out of broadband accessibility to the whole of the country; and the timetable and estimated cost for the development of such a facility. [38787/06]
97 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects 100% broadband availability will be achieved here; if specific steps are required to achieve this target; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38759/06]
178 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans, either directly or through the Regulator, to accelerate the delivery of broadband to all areas throughout the country within a short time, having particular regard to the progress in Northern Ireland and the UK; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38758/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 96, 97 and 178 together.
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the NDP 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) will allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises.
The Department also offered funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
98 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has entered into discussions with the relevant Departments with a view to achieving energy efficiencies as prescribed by the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38800/06]
389 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has entered into discussions with the relevant Ministerial colleagues with a view to achieving energy efficiencies as prescribed by the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38911/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 and 389 together.
I am working with all relevant Ministerial colleagues including the Minister for Finance, the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Minister for Transport to ensure a fully cohesive national strategic approach to delivering on energy efficiency objectives both in terms of EU obligations and directions as well as specific national targets.
100 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has had discussions with oil, gas or other exploration companies with a view to identification of a new licensing regime that would meet all requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38753/06]
123 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will ensure in the context of a future review of oil, gas or other mineral exploration licences that such regime is pitched in such a way as to encourage exploration and at the same time be seen to give a fair, adequate and transparent return to the taxpayer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38766/06]
138 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options in respect of his anticipated review of the exploration licensing regime in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38765/06]
143 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the nature of discussions he has had within his Department or with the exploration sector within the context of the review he has suggested of the exploration licensing regime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38767/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 100, 123, 138 and 143 together.
My Department is currently undertaking a review of the licensing regime under which offshore exploration companies operate in this country. Indecon International Economic Consultants Indecon has been engaged to assist my Department in this regard and is due to report to my Department by the end of this month. I have had discussions with officials of my Department about the analysis which was referred to Indecon and about the terms of reference for the assignment.
I have not had meetings with representatives of the exploration sector to discuss this review, though I understand that Indecon, as part of its work, has consulted with industry representatives.
It is my objective to ensure that the licensing regime in place maximises the return to the national economy while, at the same time, encouraging exploration for petroleum. This regime must be sufficiently progressive to accommodate both future variations in oil and gas prices and the high cost of deep-water field development. Non-fiscal aspects of the terms, such as the types of licences and their duration, are also being reviewed to ensure that they are conducive to an effective and timely approach to exploration.
With regard to non-petroleum minerals, it is Government policy to stimulate discovery of economic mineral deposits and to maximise the contribution of the mining sector to the national economy, with due regard to its social and environmental impact. Exploration and development is undertaken by private enterprise and regulated under the Minerals Development Acts, 1940 to 1999. All extraction of minerals under the Acts is subject to payment of royalties to the State. While it is my intention to consolidate and update the Minerals Development Acts in a new Minerals Development Bill currently being drafted in the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel, I do not propose to change that policy.
101 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the alternative energy services that have been given consideration by his Department; the status of alternative energy projects and results of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38716/06]
145 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options for the incentivisation of alternative energy production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38806/06]
425 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals for setting up alternative or bio-fuel infrastructure or support services with a view to increasing availability and access and developing the industry in order to improve Ireland’s compliance with Kyoto principles and the need to reduce dependence on imported fuels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39205/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 101, 145 and 425 together.
A number of innovative alternative energy programmes are in place as part of a €65m initiative announced last year. The programme is being rolled-out over a five year period and provides funding for the domestic, commercial, services and industrial sectors as follows:
The €27m ‘Greener Homes' domestic renewable heat grants programme is providing grants for householders for the purpose of installing renewable heating including wood biomass boilers and stoves, solar panels and heat pumps.
The €22m Bioheat grants programme provides grants for commercial scale wood biomass boilers aimed at the business and services sectors.
The €11m Combined Heat and Power grants programme is providing funding for the commercial sector to switch to more efficient electricity and heat generation.
In addition to these funding measures, a number of other financial initiatives have been introduced:
In July, I launched a five-year excise relief programme for biofuels, valued at over €200m. The successful applicants under this scheme will be announced shortly. The programme builds on a pilot initiative rolled out in 2005, in which eight biofuels project were granted excise relief over a two-year period.
In June, I launched the Renewable Energy Feed-in-Tariff which is providing a fixed feed-in-tariff for renewable electricity over a fifteen year period.
The Bio-energy Ministerial Task Force, which I established in July this year, will develop, by end-year a cohesive national bioenergy strategy including biofuels. Further initiatives including the question of additional supports are being considered in the context of the Green Paper on Energy Policy, and the Estimates and Budgetary processes.
The Renewables Directive (2001/77/EC) obliges Ireland to develop and implement a programme capable of increasing the amount of electricity from renewable energy sources to 13.2% of total consumption by 2010. We have proposed a target of 30% by 2020 in the Green Paper.
The target of 13.2% approximates to 1450 megawatts (MW) of installed generating capacity to be operational to the electricity network by 2010. Currently Ireland has over 940MW of renewable capacity connected. This consists of approximately 670MWs of wind-powered plant, 236MW of hydro powered plant with the balance (c. 35MWs) made up of different biomass technologies. The additional new capacity required to achieve the target will be delivered by projects already selected under the AER VI competition and the new Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) programme I launched on 1st May last.
On 29th September I announced the first tranche of support under REFIT to over fifty new renewable powered electricity generating plants. The combined capacity of these projects is over 600 megawatts (MW), with wind-power accounting for most of the new support. Full details of REFIT and the successful applicants are available on my Department's website at www.dcmnr.ie.
102 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the body to be charged with overseeing the implementation of the new salmon regime; the legislative powers the body will be vested with; and the resources to be allocated for the additional monitoring of salmon numbers and for the introduction of new river management schemes to improve the spawning conditions and water quality for salmon. [38780/06]
158 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the way he will provide resources for river counters and inland fisheries staff to implement the salmon conservation programme highlighted as urgent in the report of the Independent Salmon Group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38837/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 102 and 158 together.
Under the Fisheries Acts, primary responsibility for the management, conservation, protection, development and improvement of inland fisheries rests with the central and regional fisheries boards.
Funding is allocated directly to each fisheries board from the vote of my Department. These funds are applied by the fisheries boards towards their statutory functions, including the management of the wild salmon fishery, in each of the regions according to their needs. I am committed to enhancing the funding available to the fisheries boards for their protection and enforcement effort to ensure that the salmon stocks we are trying to rebuild are not unlawfully taken. I am confident that this increased funding will be reflected in the Revised Estimates Volume when published in the New Year.
As the Deputy may be aware, the management of the existing fish counters is undertaken by the regional fisheries boards and supported by the Marine Institute and this will continue through the National Fish Counter Programme. In so far as real time monitoring and management of stocks is concerned, I am advised that counters are only one method by which the assessment is made. Reliance is also placed on the expert analysis of catch data and surveys by fisheries officers and research officers of spawning areas, fish populations and habitat etc to monitor stocks.
103 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of post offices that have been closed or downgraded in the past five years; the number of new offices opened or upgraded in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38775/06]
The matter of post office closures is, in the first instance, a matter for the board and management of the company and one in which I have no function. According to An Post the number of Post Offices that have been closed in the past five years stands at 211. The number of Post Offices converted to postal agencies in the same period stands at 279. One new Post Office opened during this period. The number of Post Offices automated in this period stands at five.
104 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if there is a maximum timeframe limit for approving foreshore licence applications; and if there are plans to introduce a formal appeals mechanism for foreshore licences that have been refused or for licence applications that have been delayed. [38785/06]
The timeframe for considering foreshore lease and licence applications depends on a number of factors, including the precise nature of the activity proposed, the observations from expert consultees and issues arising from the public consultation process.
The Foreshore Acts do not provide for appeals against decisions on foreshore lease and licence applications, and there are currently no proposals to introduce a formal appeals mechanism in respect of such applications.
105 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the arrangements he will take with regard to wind farm developments which were approved under the AER support mechanisms but which have not met the required timetables for development of the projects; and the support measures the Government intends putting in place to support the development of off-shore wind farms in Irish waters. [38782/06]
The Alternative Energy Requirement programme (AER) and its successor, the Renewable Energy feed-in tariff programme (REFIT), are designed to support the construction of new renewable energy powered electricity generating plants which would not otherwise proceed to build and operate. Both programmes are subject to EU State aids clearance. A condition of the State aids clearance for the AER programme is that projects can be supported for fifteen years or until 2019 whichever is earlier.
Any AER supported project, which is not yet built or under construction, cannot achieve the full 15 years support under the AER programme. The REFIT programme permits any project, which was previously selected in the AER programme but which was neither built nor under construction in April 2005, to enter REFIT and achieve a fifteen year support programme. It is a matter for individual project developers, including projects developers already declared successful in AER, to determine whether any particular project is compliant with the conditions precedent in REFIT and whether the REFIT support is acceptable. I am also moving any unused support capacity or capacity which becomes available under the AER programme into the REFIT support programme to ensure it is available to the maximum number of project proposals.
One exception to the 2019 deadline in the AER programme and the transfer of capacity to REFIT is the offshore wind category in AER VI. This category permits support to end 2021. Projects in this category have until end 2006 to construct. Correspondence with developers in this category is ongoing and it is premature to reach any final decisions in advance of that deadline.
Future targets across all renewable technologies, beyond the REFIT programme, will be settled in the context of the White Paper on Energy Policy.
106 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans for the development of microgeneration; if his Department is making a submission to CER on the regulator’s current public consultation on microgeneration; if and the way he is liaising with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on the issue in view of his recent public commitments in relation to planning aspects of microgeneration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38823/06]
The Government is committed to developing domestic scale renewable electricity and heat technologies. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) has undertaken work on Metering Options for Small Scale Renewable and CHP Electricity Generation. The study identified a number of areas which require further analysis including the ability of such processes to secure adequate payment for their exports, a review of connection standards and processes for smaller generators, and the implications of the Single Electricity Market for small-scale electricity generation.
These technical and administrative issues are currently being addressed, and my Department is working with the relevant agencies, including SEI, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), ESB Networks and the Electro-Technical Council of Ireland in this regard.
As part of the ongoing work to progress this area, the CER launched a public consultation in early October on arrangements for micro generation which deals with metering issues.
I have raised the issue of planning guidelines for domestic renewable technologies with my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, with a view to ensuring a common national approach on such issues.
We are working with all relevant agencies and the CER to ensure that the appropriate administrative, technical and safety standards and practices are in place to underpin programmes for the widespread deployment of micro generation technologies. I am confident that appropriate solutions suited to the context of the Irish electricity grid and for non-grid connected technologies will be developed with a view to progressing this emerging sector.
107 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the role he intends for the ESB in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38751/06]
The Government is firmly of the view that there is strategic value in maintaining a strong, commercially viable ESB into the future. Retaining the natural monopoly networks in State ownership is also stated Government policy.
Structural reform is nonetheless essential and urgent in the interests of the development of a competitive market in electricity, providing consumer choice and driving efficiencies within the ESB itself. The creation of the Single Electricity Market in 2007 is a critical context.
The Energy Green Paper outlines the lines of action that the Government is considering as a means of achieving the necessary structural reform, including consideration of establishing a State-owned land-bank of potential generation sites and addressing ESB's dominance in the area of price-setting plant. Discussions and consultations are underway, in the context of developing the White Paper, to crystallise and agree the actions to be taken to deliver on the two policy imperatives of competition and security of supply.
108 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to research linking mobile phone use to male infertility; if he will review the findings of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35495/06]
My officials are aware of a number of studies in relation to male infertility and mobile phone usage, including the recent preliminary results from a study carried out in Cleveland. To date the balance of scientific and medical evidence does not support a causal relationship.
I am guided in these matters by the advice from international expert bodies, such as the World Health Organisation and the International Commission for Non-Ionising Radiation Protection. These bodies continually examine the totality of the scientific and medical evidence available so we have the most up to date and accurate information in regard to the potential health effects, if any, of electromagnetic fields.
109 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the Government strategy on the post office network; if he will provide the full list of the closures to date in 2006 and the number of post offices, sub-post offices and postal agents on 1 January and 21 November 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38847/06]
As set out clearly in the Programme for Government, this Government and the Board of An Post are committed to the objective of ensuring the continuation of a viable and sustainable nationwide post office network.
In line with this objective, I asked the company to ensure that any strategy for the development of the company should ensure the long-term viability of the post office network. It is in this context that the Government recently gave approval for An Post to enter into a joint venture with Fortis, with a view to providing a variety of financial services through the post office network and improving income for both An Post and postmasters.
The closure of individual post offices is in the first instance a matter for the board and management of the company and one in which I have no function. According to An Post the following is the full list of closures to date in 2006.
|
16 Sub-Office closures in 2006 |
|
|
Brandon, County Kerry |
Martinstown, County Limerick |
|
Tomhaggard, County Wexford |
Kildinan, County Cork |
|
Grangecon, County Wicklow |
Boholas, County Roscommon |
|
Church Cross, County Cork |
Bornacoola, County Leitrim |
|
Crosspatrick, County Tipperary |
Carrigrohane, County Cork |
|
Drumcree, County Westmeath |
Holycross Kilmallock, County Limerick |
|
Cranford, County Donegal |
St. Margaret’s, County Dublin |
|
Fortel, County Offaly |
Whitehall, County Dublin |
|
10 Postal Agency closures in 2006 |
|
|
Shannon Harbour, County Offaly |
Bellacorick, County Mayo |
|
Derreens, County Mayo |
Kiltormer, County Galway |
|
Moneygold, County Sligo |
Askamore, County Wexford |
|
Brittas, County Dublin |
Straide, County Mayo |
|
Ballylickey, County Cork |
Sherkin Island |
The number of post offices, sub-post offices and postal agents in existence on 1 January and 21 November 2006 is set out in the table below.
|
1st Jan. 2006 |
No. |
21st Nov. 2006 |
No. |
|
No. of Company Offices |
88 |
No. of Company Offices |
84 |
|
No. of Sub-Post Offices |
1,321 |
No. of Sub-Post Offices |
1,281 |
|
No. of Postal Agents |
161 |
No. of Postal Agents |
171 |
110 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in the context of the future development of postal and packaging services here and notwithstanding his previous references to postal services in other European countries, he will have due regard for the topographic and geographic nature of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38771/06]
Matters relating to the provision of postal services are in the first instance a matter for the board and management of An Post. The standards of service delivery in the postal sector are set out in the two European postal directives, which outline the universal service obligations to which universal service providers including An Post, must comply. The USO currently requires the provision of collection and delivery services 5 days per week, regardless of geographic location. There are no proposals to change this requirement in the context of future liberalisation of the postal sector.
111 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the Government will respond to the new proposal by European Commissioner Mr. Charlie McCreevy on abolishing the reserved areas for national postal operators for letters below 50 grammes; his views on the concerns of Ireland’s EU partner States such as France, Italy, Spain, Poland, Belgium and Greece that Commissioner McCreevy’s proposal will weaken customer service in the postal sector and lead to thousands of jobs losses; the way or the model by which he proposes to maintain the universal service obligation; if he will establish a new comprehensive postal services strategy to ensure that An Post is robust enough to meet the challenges of the fully liberalised market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38846/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 39126 of 21st November 2006.
112 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the cost of post codes; the degree of implementation; the benefit to consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38795/06]
150 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will immediately publish and lay before Dáil Éireann the feasibility study and cost-benefit analysis produced by ComReg on the introduction of postcodes; when he is planning to introduce postcodes; if there will be a general consultation process before a system of postcodes is introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38861/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 112 and 150 together.
The generally accepted definition of a postcode is a unique, universal identifier that unambiguously identifies the addressee's locality and assists in the transmission and sorting of mail items.
The introduction of a postcode system in Ireland would assist with improving efficiencies in the sorting and delivery processes for postal items and would also help facilitate new entrants to the market, should the EU postal market be liberalised in the future. Ireland is one of the few developed countries that does not have a postcode.
The National Postcode Project Board (NPPB) has now presented to me for consideration its recommendation as to the most appropriate postcode system for Ireland, the costs and benefits arising from its introduction along with a detailed implementation plan. As part of its analysis, the NPPB's advisers carried out an extensive consultation with stakeholders both within the postal sector and outside it with a view to arriving at a postcode model that best meets the needs of the stakeholders and measures the likely costs and benefits of the introduction of such a postcode.
I am now considering the next steps including any Government approvals, tender processes, legislative requirements and administrative supports required to introduce the recommended model by 2008.
113 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the development of the gas network throughout Connaught; the reason towns such as Belmullet and Ballinrobe were omitted from this expansion of the domestic and business gas infrastructure; if these and similarly sized communities not on the published list can now be added to the national gas network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38828/06]
I can advise the Deputy as follows:
The position is that, since 2002, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is a statutory independent body, has been charged with all aspects of the assessment and licensing of prospective operators who wish to develop and/or operate a gas distribution system within the State under the Gas (Interim) (Regulation) Act 2002.
The construction by Bord Gáis Éireann (BGÉ) of a natural gas transmission pipeline, known as the Mayo-Galway Pipeline, has recently been completed. The pipeline is one part of the infrastructure required to transport natural gas from the Corrib gas-field to the national gas network.
Earlier this year the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) directed BGÉ to implement a new Gas Connections Policy, which determines the economic viability of connecting towns to the gas network. The new policy allows for the appraisal of a new town either on its own or as part of a regional group of towns. Having regard to this new policy, BGÉ carried out a comprehensive review of towns being considered for connection to the national gas network. The review is being conducted in two phases, and phase 1, which covers the towns in the proximity of the Mayo-Galway Pipeline, has already been completed.
Following consideration of this phase of the review, the CER made the decision to allow Bord Gáis to extend the natural gas network to eleven towns along the route of its Mayo-Galway gas transmission pipeline. The towns to be connected to the network are Athenry, Craughwell, Headford, and Tuam in Co. Galway and Ballina, Ballyhaunis, Castlebar, Claremorris, Crossmolina, Knock and Westport in Co. Mayo, and it is hoped that some of these can be connected as early as the end of 2007.
Bord Gáis is continuing its evaluation of the viability of extending the gas network elsewhere to towns in other parts of the country with a view to completing its review by July, 2007. Following completion of this study, the CER will consider whether other towns with an economically viable case may be connected.
With regard to the Deputy's question about Belmullet and Ballinrobe, I am advised that the review carried out by Bord Gáis indicates that connection of both towns to the network would not currently be economically viable. Full details of the issues taken into consideration by Bord Gáis in its review of these and all other towns examined so far, as well as a map which shows each of the towns to be examined in phase 2, may be examined on its website www.bge.ie.
My Department has also engaged consultants for a Gas to the Northwest Study, in the context of the Government's objective for regional policy in the National Development Plan and having regard to the National Spatial Strategy.
The scope of this study is firstly, to determine the feasibility of bringing gas from the Mayo-Galway pipeline to Donegal Town via Sligo, considering three specified alternative routes; secondly, to examine and assess options for and issues surrounding the development of gas-fired power generation along the pipeline routes; and finally, to present options for the provision of gas pipeline infrastructure and gas-fired power generation, with recommendations as to how best the options may be pursued. The study is scheduled for completion in January 2007.
114 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when the Government expects to make a decision regarding the construction of a new east west inter-connecter with the UK; the projected grid reinforcement measures that will be required on the UK side of such an inter-connector; and the respective roles for the UK and Irish transmission grid companies in the operation of the facility. [38786/06]
126 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if it is intended to provide one or two interconnectors; if this is expected to happen by way of public or private enterprise or a combination of both; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38811/06]
148 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the development of an east west interconnector; if it will be developed on a regulated, hybrid regulated or merchant basis; the amount it is set to cost; the meetings his Department has conducted with their UK counterparts on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38863/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 114, 126 and 148 together.
Security of energy supply is a key imperative for Ireland and the European Union. The relatively small size of the Irish electricity market underlines the need for greater interconnection as a means of enhancing security of supply, promoting competition and integrating the Irish electricity market into the wider European market.
The recently published Energy Policy Green Paper "Towards a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland" underlines the Government's commitment to deliver enhanced interconnection on the island of Ireland as well as with Britain as a priority. This is also the way forward envisaged at European level.
The Government has made a decision approving plans for the construction of a single 500 megawatt electricity interconnector between Ireland and Wales. On foot of the Government decision, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) has been requested to proceed with a competition to select a developer to secure the design and construction of this interconnector by 2012 at the latest. As regards funding, the mechanism will be determined by the CER with fully regulated capital expenditure and revenues which will deliver the most cost effective and efficient solution.
The CER has also been requested to arrange for EirGrid and ESB to expedite the technical work of route selection and necessary grid reinforcement works. The Government decision provides that the interconnector when completed will as a key strategic asset remain in public ownership and will be owned by EirGrid.
EirGrid will carry out the work needed to select the route of the interconnector and the sites at each end for the converter stations. This will involve discussions with the UK authorities to determine what routes are feasible. The CER will actively participate as appropriate.
To underpin the development process, new arrangements are proposed in respect of the construction and operation of future interconnectors in the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2006. The Bill provides that the CER may, with Ministerial consent, secure the construction of an interconnector by one or more means, including by competitive tender. Such consent will be contingent on final Government approval.
I am not in a position to put forward any estimates as to the ultimate cost of the east-west interconnector not least because the groundwork has not been completed on specific routes. Until the CER has established considerably more detail on the specifics of the route, seabed surveys and the cost and extent of the essential grid reinforcements, it would serve no useful purpose to speculate on final costs. Also, it would be inappropriate to pre-empt the outcome of the competitive process for developer selection.
Meetings by my Department with UK counterparts to discuss energy matters including interconnection occur on a regular basis. The Department of Trade and Industry has been briefed on developments related to the interconnector. Both Departments are in full agreement on the merits of enhanced interconnection and have undertaken to liaise closely as necessary as the project goes forward. I also briefed my Welsh colleague Minister Andrew Davies in September and we agreed that officials would work closely together on the technical and other dimensions of the project. My Department has also briefed the European Commission on the east-west interconnection proposal and I am pleased to note that the response of the Commission was very positive and supportive.
115 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has received a copy of Forfas’ statement on the Costs of Doing Business in Ireland; if in view of Forfas’ concerns regarding the significant impact of energy price rises on competitiveness he will direct CER to conduct an immediate review of its pricing policy and establish a statutory consumer panel within the institutional structure of CER; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38830/06]
I can confirm that I and my Department have considered the Forfas Statement on the Costs of doing Business in Ireland. I note the findings of this report that, on average, labour costs dominate business costs (59%), followed by property costs (11%), utility costs (9%), transport (4%), with all other costs accounting for 17% of the total costs. I have also noted the finding that utility costs, including electricity costs, are less competitive when compared to the benchmarked locations.
This finding is consistent with the message of the Energy Policy Green Paper: Towards a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland. The Green Paper notes that Ireland's small energy market, peripheral position in Europe and exposure to sustained high global oil and gas prices pose particular challenges in terms of competitive energy costs.
This Green Paper also outlines options for the future direction of energy policy based on the three pillars of:
security of supply;
environmental sustainability and;
economic competitiveness.
It acknowledges that Ireland's continued economic growth and competitiveness depends on a reliable and competitively priced energy supply and sets out two overarching policy objectives to ensure the competitiveness of Irish energy supply:
effectively liberalising gas and electricity sectors by implementing energy market mechanisms, and
enabling competition by reforming institutional arrangements and market structure.
The Green Paper lists a number of key policy targets aimed at delivering these objectives. A central target is the introduction of the Single Electricity Market (SEM) in 2007, which is designed to provide a larger market with more competitive energy prices. The proposed use of a Capacity Payment Mechanism is designed to encourage new market players to invest in power generation.
The continued liberalisation of the electricity and gas markets is also designed to further enhance competition. This includes the full opening of the natural gas market to augment the fully open and contestable electricity market. This is provided for in the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2006.
In relation to reforming institutional arrangements and market structure, the Green Paper favours the retention of a strong commercially viable ESB and the retention of certain strategic electricity assets, including networks and certain generation assets, in State ownership for the long term.
Enhanced competition in generation will act as a catalyst for improvements in operation and maintenance costs, productivity, availability, flexibility and innovation. In order to mitigate ESB's dominance in mid-merit price-setting I am also giving consideration to the option of creating a ‘landbank' of suitable sites, to offer a predictable pattern of access to suitable generation sites in Ireland for new entrants to this market. This would remove a significant barrier to new entry and has been used successfully elsewhere to encourage new entry.
The Green Paper also sets out the Government's intention to undertake a comprehensive review of the energy regulatory framework. This will be initiated following the introduction of SEM in 2007, with a view to positioning regulation to meet the energy challenges up to 2020.
Under the Electricity Regulation Act 1999, the regulation of energy tariffs falls within the remit of the Commission for Energy Regulation, (CER), the independent regulator for electricity and gas. I do not have any function in this matter. I am advised that the CER has indicated that it will hold a consultation on the introduction of a fuel cost variation mechanism in electricity tariffs by the end of this year.
Under EU Regulations in relation to the Internal Energy Markets the CER has a direct legal obligation to protect the interests of final customers of electricity and to take account of the needs of vulnerable customers.
In relation to the CER's pricing policy, all decisions are made following full consultation which is open to all consumers, which outlines the proposed decision and full details of the drivers behind the decision. The CER's pricing policy includes a full assessment of the impact of proposed tariffs on all categories of customer. Decisions are made based on delivering value for money for electricity and gas customers while maintaining a secure supply and demand balance and ensuring sufficient investment in the network infrastructure to support Ireland's expanding economy.
The CER also progressed work on developing specific consumer panels for the gas and electricity sectors. This proposal has now been superseded by the establishment of the National Consumer Agency (NCA) by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The Agency's remit is to represent and progress consumers' interests across all economic sectors. It is also envisaged that the Agency will provide a strong consumer voice in the regulated sectors including energy.
The CER is working closely with the NCA to ensure that the consumer has a strong voice and input on energy tariffs. I very much welcome the fact that both are collaborating to put in place appropriate arrangements including a memorandum of understanding on information sharing and consultation and cooperation.
116 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will make a statement on the reductions to Ireland’s 2006 mackerel quota arising from allegations of landings of undeclared mackerel [38850/06]
Earlier this year, after extensive investigation, the UK authorities reported undeclared landings of mackerel into Scotland by Irish vessels in 2005 to the EU Commission. As a result, the EU Commission deducted 6,578 tonnes from Ireland's 2006 mackerel quota under Commission Regulation No. 742 of 2006, as ‘payback' for the 2005 undeclared landings.
Following extensive consultations with the EU Commission, the Attorney General's Office and industry representatives, my colleague Minister of State Browne decided that vessel owners reported for undeclared illegal landings of mackerel should be held individually responsible as far as possible. Accordingly, and following full consideration of representations made by the individuals concerned, deductions were applied to the allocations of mackerel of those vessel owners whom Minister of State Browne was satisfied had breached Community regulations and landed undeclared mackerel.
The Mackerel fishery opened on 28th October 2006. Any balance of the 6,578 tonnes deducted from Ireland's 2006 mackerel quota that is not cleared following the application of reductions in the allocations of these individual vessel owners was applied to the other vessels in the RSW Pelagic fleet on a pro-rata basis.
I believe that this management arrangement is fair and reduces as far as possible the impact on those not responsible for the reported undeclared illegal landings into Scotland.
The methodology, scale and timing of any deductions in Ireland's future mackerel quota in respect of the undeclared landings in the period 2001 to 2004 is under discussion with the EU Commission.
117 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is satisfied that the regulatory system as transposed into Irish law is capable of giving Irish consumers the benefit of lower oil and gas prices on international markets; if he will take action to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38802/06]
119 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he proposes to take action of a legislative nature or otherwise to intervene on behalf of the consumer with a view to delivering the benefits of lower international oil and gas prices to the domestic and business section here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38745/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 117 and 119 together.
The Commission for Energy Regulation is statutorily required to protect the interests of final customers as well as taking into account the needs of vulnerable customers. CER has put measures in place to ensure that consumer interests are represented in the CERs decision making process and that customer complaint mechanisms are enhanced. Plans by CER to develop consumer panels for gas and electricity consumers have been superseded by the establishment of the National Consumer Agency. The Agency's remit is to represent and progress consumer interests and is specifically charged with providing consumer advocacy in the regulated sectors including energy.
I welcome the fact that the CER have undertaken to review electricity and gas tariffs in light of recently emerging price trends for oil and gas on global markets. CERs openness to review its recent tariff decisions in light of all factors indicates that the regulatory system is responsive and is taking the concerns of consumers and enterprise into account.
118 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if it is intended in the context of the Broadcasting Bill to provide for subtitling with a view to meeting the requirements of persons with hearing deficiencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38752/06]
Subsections 11 to 13 of Section 19 of the Broadcasting Act 2001 empower the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) to make rules requiring each broadcaster to take specified steps to promote the understanding and enjoyment, by persons who are deaf or hard of hearing, of programmes transmitted by that broadcaster. The rules drawn up by the BCI following a comprehensive public consultation process came into effect in 2005.
Subheads 5, 13 and 14 of Head 41 of the draft general scheme of the Broadcasting Bill re-state the existing requirements of Section 19 of the Broadcasting Act 2001.
As the Deputy is already aware, the draft general scheme of the Broadcasting Bill has been submitted to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources for the purposes of public consultation under the eConsultation initiative.
120 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that in other EU jurisdictions, deregulation and competition in the area of gas and electricity supply is to the advantage of the consumer in contrast to the situation here, whereby it appears that the EU law transposed into domestic law has resulted in price hikes which will have an impact on the domestic consumer and consequences for the manufacturing and services industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38744/06]
146 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the noticeable divergence of energy prices here with those in neighbouring and competing countries; if he will take action to review the relevant EU legislation with the objective of delivering the benefits of competition to the Irish consumer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38813/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 146 together.
I am aware of varying energy costs within the European Union. I do not have any function in relation to the pricing of electricity and gas, as this falls within the remit of the Commission for Energy Regulation, (CER), the independent regulator for electricity and gas.
I am advised that an analysis of the most recent Eurostat data on gas and electricity prices (as of 1 January 2006) indicates that the Irish price for gas supplied to domestic customers was the 12th highest price in Europe (out of 24). It was less than half the price charged in Denmark, while Sweden, Netherlands, Italy and Germany also had higher prices. Significantly, the Irish price was less than the average EU25 domestic gas price (there was no comparison available for industrial gas prices). These comparisons are based on consumer price including all taxes. Even taking into account the recent increase in gas prices, Bord Gáis has indicated that gas prices in Ireland are still the 9th cheapest in Europe and they remain below the EU 15 average.
In relation to electricity, the Eurostat statistics indicate that domestic electricity prices in Ireland are the 7th highest in Europe while Ireland had the 6th highest industrial and commercial (medium sized business) electricity prices in 2006. The CER has advised that the electricity price in Ireland is cheaper than the average price in Britain at present, although this will even out if the sanctioned price increase takes effect on January 1st 2007.
It is worth making the point that even in the most liberalised energy markets in the EU, successive price rises have been experienced throughout 2006. Ireland's small energy market, peripheral position in Europe and exposure to sustained high global oil and gas prices pose particular challenges in terms of competitive energy costs. Controllable costs must be vigorously tackled, as I have made clear on successive occasions. As part of the Green Paper consultation process my Department is consulting directly with consumer interests as well as business and enterprise on their views on energy policy directions.
The Electricity and Gas Market Directives (2003/54/EC and 2003/55/EC respectively) are designed to complete the internal market in these sectors and to speed up the liberalisation process with a view to achieving a fully operational internal market. The Directives establish common rules for the electricity and gas sectors, including rules for the organisation and functioning of these sectors, access to the markets and the criteria and procedures for the granting of licences or authorisations.
These Directives are being transposed into Irish law through a series of primary and secondary legislation. This legislation has already introduced a suite of liberalisation measures, including the full opening of the retail electricity market in Ireland and the establishment of EirGrid as the fully operational and independent electricity transmission system operator. The full opening of the gas market is provided for in the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2006.
122 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that texts of an explicit nature are being randomly sent to mobile phone customers encouraging them to ring premium rate numbers; and the advice he has for people who wish not to receive such texts or for parents who are trying to protect their young children who may have mobile phones and are receiving such texts. [38819/06]
I have no function in the regulation of premium rate numbers. These are commercial products in a commercial market and responsibility for the regulation of the content and promotion of premium rate telecommunications services is a matter for Regtel, the independent regulator.
The Deputy should be aware however, that legislation is already in place to address the sending of indecent or offensive material by phone, and the harassment of people by phone and anyone who has information in relation to these matters should bring it immediately to the attention of the Garda Síochána for criminal investigation.
In relation to parents with young children, obviously parental supervision is key. In addition, the Irish Cellular Industry Association has done a lot of work in the area of safe and responsible use of mobile phones. They have published a Parent's Guide to Mobile Phones, which aims to inform parents of some key safety tips that will encourage responsible and secure use of mobile phones by their children. It seeks to educate parents and guardians in the ways in which they can gain greater visibility of their child's mobile usage and the services they access. The guide also addresses the subject of bullying and malicious communications. A copy of the guide is available on the ICIA website at www.icia.ie.
124 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the further discussions he has had with State or semi-State bodies such as ESB, Bord na Móna, Iarnród Éireann and others in regard to the previously reported proposal to provide a State controlled telecommunications network to facilitate the advancement of broadband and state of the art telecommunications technology in general; if costings have been undertaken on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38805/06]
In April 2005 a team of advisors was engaged to examine the potential for enhancing and augmenting existing state owned infrastructure. This team submitted a Feasibility Report in December 2005. The report found that, while technically feasible, there would be considerable financial, legal, regulatory, operational and organisational challenges in harnessing and enhancing the existing state owned infrastructures. It is not my intention to publish the report given the extent of the commercially sensitive information contained in it.
My Department is considering options to enhance competitive backhaul connectivity.
127 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the ongoing digital terrestrial television trial; if he will provide details on the recently completed selection process for multiplex programme content managers; when the DTT trial will be completed and national roll-out will begin; the reason he has not dealt with digital television services in a more comprehensive manner in the new Broadcasting Bill; if he will publish stand-alone legislation on digital broadcasting services; the way he will manage spectrum space as the digitisation process advances; if he has set a date for the switch off of the analogue signal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38855/06]
152 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options for the development of digital television; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38764/06]
163 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his policy preferences in respect of the development of terrestrial television transmissions in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38763/06]
168 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the cost of the digital television pilot service over the next two years; the criteria to be applied to programming and advertising content of the seven successful applicants; if he expects to meet the European Union’s desired deadline of 2012 for the phasing out of analogue television system; and the measures he will take to meet that target date. [38781/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 127, 152, 163 and 168 together.
A digital terrestrial television (DTT) pilot programme is currently being implemented by my Department. The purpose of the pilot is to bring further momentum to the transition to digital terrestrial broadcasting and to test and trial various aspects of the service.
The DTT pilot is now in the "soft trial" phase during which the network and user technologies will be tested. The initial transmission sites are at Clermont Carn in the north east and Three Rock covering parts of the Dublin region.
The trial is planned to continue over a two-year timeframe and will provide the opportunity for technical and user testing of both existing and new broadcast services, including both television and audio services. Over the period 2006-08, it is estimated that the DTT pilot will cost approximately €10 million.
My Department has begun preparing legislation for digital terrestrial television and is examining all the options with regard to putting in place a legislative framework for national DTT roll-out.
It is anticipated that the pilot will generate awareness and discussion among interested parties in a full national roll-out of digital terrestrial television. As the trial progresses and proposals are developed for a national roll-out of digital terrestrial television, the question of possible analogue switch-off dates will be considered.
Switch-off of analogue television services is being strongly advocated by the European Commission, with 2012 a target date suggested by the Commission. While the pilot is underway, I intend to hold discussions with all relevant stakeholders around the issue of digital switch-over with a view to meeting this deadline.
When decisions have been taken about the nature and timing of analogue switch over, it will be necessary to ensure that Irish viewers are fully informed of all the issues arising.
My Department, in conjunction with the Broadcast Commission of Ireland (BCI), recently completed a process seeking applicants to operate as Multiplex Programme Content Managers on the second phase of the DTT trial. In assessing applications, the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and the BCI, had regard to the extent to which an applicant's proposals met some or all of the objectives of the DTT trial and the applicant's compliance with the provision of information in the required format.
Further information on this process is set out in the application guidelines, available on the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources' website at
http://www.dcmnr.gov.ie/Broadcasting/Digital+ Television/Digital+Terrestrial+Television+Pilot/.
During the summer, the International Telecommunications Union held an international conference to plan the use of the frequency spectrum for digital broadcasting. Ireland was represented at that conference by officials from my Department along with representatives from ComReg, BCI and RTE.
I am very pleased with the outcome of the conference. In addition to obtaining the necessary spectrum to allow for the initial roll-out of DTT nationwide, Ireland has also secured the right to re-use the existing analogue transmission frequencies for digital use.
This will facilitate not only the introduction of DTT nationwide but also permit the development of many new and innovative services, such as mobile television, high definition television and interactive television, particularly following the switch-off of the analogue services. My Department is currently examining how the spectrum should be used so that it can fully contribute to the development of broadcasting in a knowledge-based society.
128 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects all telephone exchanges and cable networks to be broadband enabled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38790/06]
I have no function in these matters.
129 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, arising from a Sunday newspaper article, his attention has been drawn to an alleged request from Eircom for the upgrading of a number of telephone lines which currently render it impossible to obtain broadband in some rural areas due to the use of shared or divided lines which were installed in the 1980s; if, as suggested, funding to the extent of €200 million has been sought from the State to facilitate such an upgrade; the full extent of such enquiries or discussions including the alternatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38762/06]
I am aware that Eircom has highlighted the infrastructure enhancements required in order to provide broadband services throughout its network.
I also recognise that despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
130 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the Government’s approach to the annual EU sea fisheries negotiations under the Common Fisheries Policy and on his targets for the key quotas and TACs, the industry here may face in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38839/06]
Total Allowable Catches (TACs) and Quotas and associated conditions for fisheries for 2007 under the Common Fisheries Policy will be decided at the Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers from 19-21 December 2006. The Council will be preceded by a series of working groups and other meetings at which each Member State will endeavour to negotiate the best possible outcome in the interests of its own fishing industry and having regard for scientific advice.
The European Commission will come forward shortly with proposals for 2007 taking account of the scientific advice recently published by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES).
Ireland will consider the Commission's proposals for 2007 in the light of the scientific advice, current measures in place (including recovery plans and effort restrictions) and in consultation with our industry representatives in order to determine a national position.
The priority for Ireland at this Council will be to ensure that Irish fishermen will have the maximum possible quantity and range of fishing possibilities available in 2007, taking into account the need for effective conservation measures in our waters. Some 40 fish stocks are of interest to Irish fishermen and an overriding imperative for both the Government and the Irish fishing industry will be to achieve a balanced outcome, in order that the stocks are managed and exploited on a sustainable basis.
My colleague, Minister of State John Browne, together with the Department, will maintain close contact with industry representatives throughout these negotiations.
131 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will provide details on the forthcoming Single Electricity Market Bill; when it will be fully published and made available to Dáil Éireann; the impact of the SEM Bill on CER; if there will now be a single all island energy regulator; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38826/06]
The Electricity Regulation (Amendment) (Single Electricity Market) Bill 2006, which was published on 20 November, provides for the establishment and operation of a single competitive wholesale electricity market on the island of Ireland.
The Bill will, inter alia, provide a framework for the performance of the functions of the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) relating to the single electricity market (SEM). These functions will be undertaken by a newly established SEM Committee, which will be a sub-committee of both the CER and its Northern Ireland counterpart, the Northern Ireland Authority for Energy Regulation (NIAER).
The Bill will not establish an all-island regulator. This issue is identified in the All-island Energy Market Development Framework launched in November 2004, as one to be considered, in consultation with the Northern authorities, at a later stage once the primary objective of establishing a single electricity market has been achieved.
132 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is satisfied that deregulation in the Irish context is sufficiently focused to ensure the delivery of the full scale of modern telecommunication services including broadband and mobile telephony to all areas of the country; if an adequate degree of competition exists to ensure that the rights and entitlements of subscribers are fully observed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38760/06]
The telecommunications market in Ireland is fully liberalised and open and the provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies.
Statutory responsibility for the regulation of this sector rests with the independent regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), under the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the Regulations transposing the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications Networks and Services.
One of ComReg's key objectives is the promotion of the interests of users in the sector.
133 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the long term target his Department has set for the reduction of greenhouse gases from the energy sector; and the means being introduced to ensure that Ireland meets such a target via annual incremental reductions. [38784/06]
My colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, has lead responsibility for Government policy on meeting Ireland's target under the Kyoto Protocol.
The energy sector will make its contribution to meeting our obligations under the Kyoto protocol through participation in the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. The Government has already decided, in the context of the preparation of Ireland's second National Allocation Plan under the scheme, that the emissions trading sector will be responsible for making approximately 3 million tonnes annual reductions in greenhouse gases out of the approximately 7 million tonnes per annum reductions needed to enable Ireland to meet its Kyoto target over the period 2008 to 2012, after existing abatement measures have been taken into account.
Under the EU Emissions Trading Scheme, installations are granted a certain level of allowances and are required to either mitigate their emissions or purchase allowances for any emissions above the level of allowances. Accordingly it is a matter for the individual installations (which includes all commercial scale fossil fuelled electricity generation) to decide on the most cost effective mix of abatement measures for their business. In this context, annual incremental reductions are not a feature of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme.
134 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if An Post has achieved sufficiently high following day delivery throughout the service; if he proposes to take policy decisions to ensure a delivery service in keeping with best practice worldwide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38774/06]
Matters relating to quality and levels of postal service are a matter in the first instance for the management and board of An Post.
The Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in accordance with the provisions of S.I. 616 of 2002 European Communities (Postal Services) Regulations, is responsible for the monitoring, measurement and regulation of the postal sector including measuring the levels of service to be achieved by An Post and ensuring that the company abides by its statutory universal service obligations.
135 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the action he has taken in response to complaints from householders and businesses in relation to the adoption of wood pellet boilers and biomass heating technology whereby installation and supply problems with this renewable energy source make its current adoption impossible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38852/06]
There are no market problems as implied by the Deputy's question and the deployment of the technologies concerned is continuing as normal.
The Greener Homes Scheme, which I launched in March, provides grant aid for domestic renewable heat technologies. Approximately 44% of the applications received to date relate to wood pellet boilers or stoves.
The BioHeat Programme, which I launched in June, aims to increase the deployment of biomass heating systems fuelled by wood chips and wood pellets in large buildings and small industrial sites in Ireland. In doing this the programme also aims to achieve carbon emission savings and fossil fuel displacement, increase customer awareness and confidence in heating from biomass and develop the capability of the Irish wood fuel supply chain. A total of 37 systems have been approved under this programme with ten installed to date.
Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) has endeavoured to ensure that all prospective purchasers have sufficient objective information that will inform their choice. This includes general guidance on technology options as well as more specific information on fuel purchase and storage considerations. In the case of the Greener Homes Scheme, because of the newness of the technology to the Irish market, this takes the form of an easy to read step by step Buyer's Guide.
In response to a customer requirement to identify the closest supplier options for them SEI has developed a list of Known Wood Fuel Suppliers identifying location and supply options. This list contains 53 suppliers countrywide the majority of which supply pellets in bagged form.
136 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will raise the problems of overfishing and the use of illegal nets and tackle by other EU fishing fleets in Irish waters as discussed by the Houses of the Oireachtas during the Fisheries Act 1980 discussions earlier in 2006 at the forthcoming EU sea fisheries negotiations under the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38840/06]
Over-fishing and illegal practices by other EU fishing fleets in Irish waters are and have been a matter of ongoing concern to me, to my colleague Minister of State Browne, and to the Department. Illegal practices militate against the protection of our fisheries resources, and their exploitation in a sustainable way into the future.
I have previously raised Ireland's concerns on these issues with Commissioner Borg and along with Minister Browne, I will continue to do so. A Commission proposal to introduce electronic log books is under consideration at today's Fisheries Council, which Minister Browne is attending. Ireland has been at the forefront at pushing for the introduction of this new technology which will provide a significantly enhanced capability for monitoring catches at sea.
The Common Fisheries Policy imposes obligations on all member states in relation to the monitoring and control of the activities of their fishing fleets, and Ireland will continue to press for strengthened controls at European level. The recently established Community Fisheries Control Agency will help to improve co-operation and co-ordination between the control authorities of member states.
At national level, our Control Authorities and our Naval Service are enhancing their monitoring and inspection systems, with upgraded communications systems, greater co-ordination between agencies and the appointment of additional inspection staff at our ports.
A new Sea Fisheries Protection Authority will come into being on 1 January 2007. The new Authority will further strengthen Ireland's capacity to monitor and control illegal activities in Irish waters.
137 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is satisfied that sufficient generating capacity exists to ensure the continuity of supply and the integrity of Eirgrid for the foreseeable future; if sufficient surplus supply exists to cater for all eventualities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38793/06]
147 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the fact that worries are being expressed that Ireland’s electricity generation capacity will be inadequate from 2008/2009 onwards; the steps he may be taking to ensure that sufficient generation will be brought on stream from 2007 to ensure energy security here; if there will be a tight supply demand balance in winter 2006; if there have been amber or red alerts in the electricity system in the past year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38825/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 147 together.
The economy and society overall require that energy supply meets the demands of Irish consumers, and industry, at all times. The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), has broad statutory functions in relation to security of electricity supply in line with EU Directives. It is the duty of the CER to monitor the security of supply of electricity and to take such measures as it considers necessary to protect security of supply. In particular, the CER can host a competition to acquire the necessary generation or it can direct the Transmission System Operator, ESB or any licensed undertaking to put in place any arrangements that the CER considers necessary to protect security of supply.
EirGrid's statutory role, as the independent Transmission System Operator, is to deliver quality connection, transmission and market services to generators, suppliers and customers utilising the high voltage electricity system, and to put in place the grid infrastructure required to support the economy. In fulfilling this role, EirGrid is required to develop, maintain and operate a safe, secure, reliable, economical and efficient transmission system.
In co-operation with EirGrid, the CER carries out extensive ongoing monitoring to identify any factors affecting security of supply at an early stage so that any necessary measures can be taken.
In line with international norms, the generation system in Ireland is designed, planned and monitored such that it meets a standard which requires it to meet all reasonable demands for supply. This is designed to ensure that, in designing the system, the appropriate balance is met between protecting security of supply and the cost of building and running the system.
At my request, CER and Eirgrid have been briefing myself and my Department on a regular basis on the prognosis for winter 06/07 and generation adequacy in the medium term. The CER advises me that it is satisfied the generation system is currently adequate to meet demand, and provides a sufficient margin to meet the security standard. The CER has also advised that there is sufficient capacity and arrangements in place to provide for demand to be met in the short term.
The CER is taking measures to facilitate the development of the system such that it remains adequate to maintain that security standard. Security of supply will be enhanced in the longer term with the development of additional electric interconnection and the development of the Single Electricity, and the resulting all-island approach to security of supply.
With regard to existing generation capacity, the most recent advice to me from CER and EirGrid is that generation adequacy in terms of the supply — demand balance will be manageable up to 2009 provided however that projections by generation companies regarding performance and availability are met and that planned new generation capacity comes on stream to schedule. Eirgrid will shortly publish its Generation Adequacy Review 2007-2013 which will set out its assessment of supply-demand over the period.
System alerts are indicators issued by the EirGrid, as the independent TSO, to power station operators so as to encourage conservative operational practices at times of lower than usual spare generating capacity. The CER advises that the occurrence of any alerts on the system is contingent on both the level of demand over the winter, which will be determined, in part, by the weather, and the availability of plant to meet that demand. Similar to recent winters, during times of peak demand, the Commission anticipates that there may be times when alerts will be initiated in order to signal the appropriate actions for generators.
I am advised by the CER and EirGrid that up to 16 November this year, there have been 19 amber alerts and no red alerts issued. For comparison, in 2005, there were 46 amber alerts and 1 red alert issued. While I have been assured by the CER and EirGrid that there has been no occasion this year when electricity supply to customers was affected by a capacity shortfall, I am advised that they are considering additional measures that can be put in place to minimise the occurrence of instances where alerts are called for.
The Government is also concerned to ensure that adequate provision is also made to encourage the development of an electricity portfolio, which can support and complement the ambitious targets which we have now set for renewable growth. Decisions in this regard by the CER, EirGrid and the Government will be informed by the need to ensure capacity and competition in the generation sector while reflecting the overriding consideration of security of supply.
139 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options to generate competition in the electricity industry with particular reference to the need to deliver the benefits of competition to the consumer in the form of reduced energy costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38750/06]
The Government's Green Paper on Energy Policy outlines future directions for energy policy based on the three pillars of:
security of supply;
environmental sustainability and;
economic competitiveness.
Ireland's continued economic growth and competitiveness depends on a reliable and competitively priced energy supply. The competitiveness of Irish energy supply requires action on a number of fronts including:
effectively liberalising gas and electricity sectors by implementing energy market mechanisms, and
enabling competition by reforming institutional arrangements and market structure.
The introduction of the Single Electricity Market (SEM) in 2007, is a key policy imperative which will enhance scale and encourage new entrants.
The continued liberalisation of the electricity and gas markets will also further enhance competition. This includes the full opening of the natural gas market to augment the fully open and contestable electricity market. This is provided for in the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2006.
In relation to reforming institutional arrangements and market structure, the Government has stated its commitment to the retention of a strong commercially viable ESB and the retention of certain strategic electricity assets, including networks and certain generation assets, in State ownership.
I am on the record as stating that the Government does not in any circumstances favour the fragmentation of the ESB. I believe such a move would not reduce prices, but could in fact increase them and endanger security of supply and competitiveness. The need however for structural change within the electricity sector and for ESB itself is clearly articulated in the Green Paper.
Enhanced competition in generation will act as a catalyst for improvements in operation and maintenance costs, productivity, availability, flexibility and innovation. As part of action to mitigate ESB's dominance in mid-merit price-setting I am also giving consideration to the option of creating a ‘landbank' of suitable sites, to offer a predictable pattern of access to suitable generation sites in Ireland for new entrants to this market. This would remove a significant barrier to new entry and has been used successfully elsewhere to encourage new entry.
140 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans for the future of Bord Na Móna and the role he expects the company to fulfil in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38804/06]
The Government's objective with regard to Bord na Móna is to ensure the long-term viability of the Company having regard to the declining and finite nature of its existing businesses.
I approved, with the consent of the Minister for Finance, Bord na Móna's future strategy proposals in October 2005. Included in the strategy are projects in the renewable energy, waste management and environmental solutions areas.
I fully support the overall strategic direction charted by Bord na Móna which will position the company firmly to develop opportunities in the renewable energy sector in line with overall energy policy objectives.
The successful implementation of the approved strategic direction now being taken by Bord na Móna should ensure that the Company remains a major employer in the Midlands region, and that the company continues to make a significant, indeed expanded, contribution to Government priorities for the Irish energy sector.
141 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the national sea fisheries and seafood strategy and on the way this will be facilitated by the next phase of the National Development Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38841/06]
Minister of State John Browne and myself established the Seafood Strategy Review Group in June 2006 with the objective of consulting with all stakeholders to devise a strategy for the 2007-13 period for the delivery of a sustainable and profitable seafood industry in Ireland.
I expect to receive the report of the Seafood Strategy Review Group within the next two to three weeks. This report will set out the development strategy for the sea fisheries, seafood and aquaculture sectors.
The achievement of the strategy will require the taking of a set of integrated, market led actions to improve competitiveness and profitability across all the sectors of the industry — sea fishing, aquaculture, processing and marketing — by targeting investment so as to achieve the highest level of value generation within the Irish seafood industry.
The strategy will feed into the Seafood Development element of the new National Development Plan being drawn up for the 2007-2013 period so that the seafood sector, including the Aquaculture sector, will have access to the necessary development funding for the coming years.
142 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if all religious broadcasts from the various churches here which were discontinued on the FM service have been fully restored on an alternative frequency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38747/06]
The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) is the statutory body responsible for spectrum management.
Earlier this year ComReg established a licensing scheme to permit wireless public address systems (WPAS), and allow what is seen as a valuable community service to continue in a way that is regulated and will not cause problems for the broadcasting content regulator and other users of radio spectrum.
The Regulations providing for this licensing scheme required my consent as Minister for Communications, under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1926 and were put in place last June.
I would refer the Deputy to ComReg for any further questions in relation to this scheme (www.comreg.ie).
144 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the contribution his Department makes to formulating the Government’s climate change policy; if, in view of the landmark Stern Report on climate change and the second meeting of the parties to the Kyoto Protocol in Kenya, he will review the current Irish climate change policy; if he will ensure that an accelerated biofuels policy plays a key role in the Irish effort to tackle climate change; if he has reviewed the recent Energy in Transport 2006 Report publication from Sustainable Energy Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38857/06]
My colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, has lead responsibility for Government policy on climate change, including the Review of the National Climate Change Strategy. The Review, entitled "Ireland's Pathway to Kyoto Compliance" was published for consultation earlier this year and is currently being considered by the Minister.
My Department participates in the Inter-Departmental Team on Climate Change, which deals with a wide range of related policy issues including the overall allocation of allowances under the EU Emissions Trading Scheme and the Review of the National Climate Change Strategy.
A range of initiatives are in place to support the development of a biofuels sector in Ireland. The 2005 pilot mineral oil tax relief scheme for biofuels has resulted in eight projects being awarded excise relief for a two-year period under the scheme including four pure plant oil, three biodiesel or other biofuel and one bioethanol proposal.
Building on the success of this scheme I launched the Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Scheme II, valued at over €200m, in July 2006. The scheme will be rolled out this year and will enable us to reach the initial target of 2% market penetration of biofuels by 2008. When fully operational the relief is expected to support the use and production of some 163 million litres of biofuels each year. The successful applicants under the scheme will be announced shortly.
I welcome the recently published "Energy in Transport, Trends and Influencing Factors", published by Sustainable Energy Ireland which is a valuable source of statistics, information and analysis regarding energy trends in the transport sector.
149 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the new metropolitan networks due to be constructed in 2006 and in 2007; and the contracted cost for the construction of each such local network. [38788/06]
Details of the 90 Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) to be constructed during 2006 and 2007 and contracted costs for the 26 MANs currently under construction are as follows.
|
Metropolitan Area Networks |
County |
Total Contracted Price |
|
€m |
||
|
Bantry |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Blarney |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Carrigaline, Ringaskiddy, Passage West |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Charleville |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Cobh |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Dunmanway |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Fermoy |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Kanturk |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Kinsale |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Midleton |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Mitchelstown |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Skibbereen |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Youghal |
Cork |
n/a |
|
Ballybofey/Stranorlar |
Donegal |
2.32 |
|
Ballyshannon |
Donegal |
1.57 |
|
Buncrana |
Donegal |
2.11 |
|
Bundoran |
Donegal |
1.22 |
|
Carndonagh |
Donegal |
1.57 |
|
Donegal Town |
Donegal |
2.87 |
|
Donabate |
Fingal |
n/a |
|
Lusk |
Fingal |
n/a |
|
Portrane |
Fingal |
n/a |
|
Skerries |
Fingal |
n/a |
|
Athenry |
Galway |
1.48 |
|
Ballinasloe |
Galway |
3.39 |
|
Clifden |
Galway |
1.82 |
|
Gort |
Galway |
1.18 |
|
Loughrea |
Galway |
1.97 |
|
Castleisland |
Kerry |
n/a |
|
Dingle |
Kerry |
n/a |
|
Kenmare |
Kerry |
n/a |
|
Killarney |
Kerry |
n/a |
|
Listowel |
Kerry |
n/a |
|
Tralee |
Kerry |
n/a |
|
Clane |
Kildare |
n/a |
|
Kilcock |
Kildare |
n/a |
|
Kildare |
Kildare |
n/a |
|
Maynooth |
Kildare |
n/a |
|
Monasterevin |
Kildare |
n/a |
|
Newbridge |
Kildare |
n/a |
|
Rathangan |
Kildare |
n/a |
|
Sallins |
Kildare |
n/a |
|
Longford |
Longford |
2.49 |
|
Ballinrobe |
Mayo |
n/a |
|
Claremorris |
Mayo |
n/a |
|
Knock Airport |
Mayo |
n/a |
|
Athboy |
Meath |
0.37 |
|
Duleek |
Meath |
0.37 |
|
Dunboyne/Clonee |
Meath |
1.78 |
|
Dunshaughlin |
Meath |
1.15 |
|
Kells |
Meath |
1.56 |
|
Laytown — Bettystown |
Meath |
0.40 |
|
Navan |
Meath |
3.40 |
|
Ratoath |
Meath |
0.42 |
|
Trim |
Meath |
1.40 |
|
Clara |
Offaly |
n/a |
|
Edenderry |
Offaly |
n/a |
|
Moate |
Westmeath |
n/a |
|
Mountmellick |
Laois |
n/a |
|
Portarlington |
Laois |
n/a |
|
Ardee |
Louth |
1.93 |
|
Bailieborough |
Cavan |
1.28 |
|
Castleblaney |
Monaghan |
2.45 |
|
Clones |
Cavan |
1.39 |
|
Cootehill |
Cavan |
1.61 |
|
Boyle |
Roscommon |
n/a |
|
Castlerea |
Roscommon |
n/a |
|
Cahir |
Tipperary |
n/a |
|
Carrick-on-Suir |
Tipperary |
n/a |
|
Cashel |
Tipperary |
n/a |
|
Dunmore East |
Waterford |
n/a |
|
Muine Beag (Bagenalstown) |
Carlow |
n/a |
|
Thomastown |
Kilkenny |
n/a |
|
Tipperary |
Tipperary |
n/a |
|
Tramore |
Waterford |
n/a |
|
Tullow |
Carlow |
n/a |
|
Abbeyfeale |
Limerick |
n/a |
|
Banagher |
Offaly |
n/a |
|
Birr |
Offaly |
n/a |
|
Kilrush |
Clare |
n/a |
|
Nenagh |
Tipperary |
n/a |
|
Newcastle West |
Limerick |
n/a |
|
Roscrea |
Tipperary |
n/a |
|
Templemore |
Tipperary |
n/a |
|
Blessington |
Wicklow |
n/a |
|
Enniskerry |
Wicklow |
n/a |
|
Kilcoole-Newtownmountkennedy |
Wicklow |
n/a |
151 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the regular meetings that his Department is conducting with the broadband service providers; when he will bring proposals to Government on achieving 100% broadband enablement of the State; if he is considering including an upgrading of all telephone exchanges and fixing the problem of shared lines within these proposals; if the cost of this proposal may be up to €200 million; if such investment would ensure that the State receives a stake in the critical communications network; if he plans a tendering process along the lines of the contract that was awarded to BT in Northern Ireland; the role he envisages for e-net and the MANs in this proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38853/06]
I meet with industry and interested parties on a regular basis in pursuit of my objective to facilitate the widespread availability of competitively priced broadband in Ireland.
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the NDP 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises.
The Department also offered funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from Comreg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
153 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources further to the recent research in the International Journal Science that concluded that by 2050 there will be virtually no global fish stocks left, that stocks have already collapsed in around one-third of sea fisheries and that the decline is rapidly increasing across the globe, the measures he will undertake to ensure the long-term sustainability of fish stocks here; the proposals the Government has suggested at EU level to combat declining fish-stocks; if he will introduce a sea fisheries sustainability impact assessment based on consultation with all major stakeholders and which would be brought before Dáil Éireann on an annual basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38851/06]
The report to which the Deputy refers made a number of worrying points in relation to the consequences of the loss of biodiversity, the effects of overfishing, loss of species, and their effects on the ability of the oceans to heal themselves. However, the report's main author goes on to say "I am confident we will not go there because we will do something about it".
Here in Ireland, we are well aware that ocean management and fisheries management are interlinked. We know the issues in the waters around Ireland and we are working to address them at national, EU and international level.
Fish stocks in the waters around Ireland are exploited under the umbrella of the EU Common Fisheries Policy. A fundamental principal underpinning this Policy is to manage the exploitation of the stocks in a way that protects their long-term viability. The Marine Institute reports that over 75% of the key commercial stocks around Ireland are outside safe biological limits with either a low stock size or unsustainable levels of exploitation.
We are working hard to strengthen conservation and promote sustainability. For example, the EU designated a Biologically Sensitive Area off our south coast in 2003 in recognition of the importance of this area for juvenile fish and for spawning. A recovery plan for hake, near collapse in 2000, was also introduced and the stock has rebuilt.
We must improve our knowledge base and also work towards effective enforcement at national, EU and international level. Irish scientists, industry and managers are working together for example on a suite of new projects that will improve the assessment and advice for key stocks:
Anglerfish off the West of Ireland (surveys on fishing vessels)
Cod in the Celtic Sea (closed boxes introduced to help stock recover)
Irish Sea Cod Recovery Box.
We must deliver strengthened control and a level playing field and I have pursued this agenda strongly at EU level since my appointment.
Our common goal is to have a sustainable fishing industry with sustainable fish stocks, operating in a sustainable ocean. This must be done in partnership with stakeholders at EU and international level. I see little benefit in introducing a sustainable impact assessment to be brought before Dail Eireann. As we are operating within a common EU policy, a focus on a national framework would have limited value.
At EU level there is a substantial framework for assessment in place involving scientific evaluation on the state of the stock by the International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (ICES), an assessment of the economic and social aspects of the scientific advice by the EU Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries (STECF) and stakeholders assessment by the Regional Advisory Councils (RACs). All of this operates within a very tight time frame to inform consideration of TACs and quotas, for the following year, at the December Fisheries Council.
154 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is currently examining an extension of Ireland’s strategic gas reserves; his views on the development of electricity storage projects in view of the dramatic increase in wind generation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38862/06]
I can advise the Deputy that one of the strategic objectives set down in the All-island energy development framework for natural gas is a common approach on natural gas storage and Liquid Natural Gas (LNG). With this in mind, the issue of a strategic gas reserve is one of the issues to be addressed by means of an all-island study to be commissioned jointly by my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for Northern Ireland (DETINI). Both Departments are jointly engaged in a tender process in this regard, which closes at the end of this month.
The successful tenderer will be required to assess the medium to long-term position with regard to security of natural gas supply and to consider the scope for a common approach on storage and LNG with a view to optimising that position. The study will have regard to industry views and to any existing capacities, as well as to any planned or proposed developments for storage and LNG. I am advised that a contract for the study will be placed by the end of January next at the latest with a view to the report being finalised by mid 2007.
Security of supply in relation to electricity is a matter for the Commission for Energy Regulation (C.E.R) in accordance with the provisions of Article 28 of the European Communities (Internal Market in Electricity) Regulations 2005 (S.I. No. 60 of 2005). Specifically, Article 28 provides that it shall be the duty of the CER to monitor the security of supply of electricity and that the Commission shall take such measures as it considers necessary to protect security of supply. In the performance of its functions, the CER is advised by EirGrid, the Independent Transmission System Operator.
In its Generation Adequacy Report 2006-2012, EirGrid identifies system operation issues as a result of increasing wind generation as one of the key issues to be addressed to ensure that electricity demand continues to be met. With this in mind, I am advised by the CER that it has requested EirGrid to update its study carried out in 2004 on the economic and operational impacts of wind penetration with a view to identifying any necessary actions which need to be taken.
With regard to electricity storage projects, the CER advises me that while it would welcome initiatives in relation to electricity storage and the potential benefits which could be accrued from these, it would not view them at present as having a significant role in relation to security of supply. In terms of security of supply, the CER advises that other mechanisms such as increased interconnection, the development of the Single Electricity Market, continued improvements in thermal plant efficiency and availability as well as medium to long term needs for new plant should be given priority consideration in order to ensure generation adequacy into the future.
155 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is in favour of the introduction of net metering for domestically produced electricity as exists in Northern Ireland and other jurisdictions; and the discussions his Department has had with the CER with regard to its recently produced consultation report on the matter. [38783/06]
The Energy Policy Green Paper: Towards a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland sets out the Government's commitment to realise the potential of small-scale renewable sources. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) is undertaking comprehensive analysis in relation to metering and reward systems that adequately and equitably treat both generators and system operators. There is no doubt that we can learn from successful experiences elsewhere and I expect that the necessary comparative analysis will feature in SEI's work.
The CER has issued a consultation paper on arrangements for micro-generation which deals with metering issues, including net metering and smart metering. Smart metering has clear potential applications in encouraging energy efficiency, which is a key energy policy objective.
156 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he proposes to examine again all aspects of the Corrib gas issues with particular reference to the need to utilise and make available this important natural resource at the earliest possible date; if he will make one final effort to resolve the outstanding matters which if allowed to continue will do considerable, if not irreparable, damage to the national image; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38770/06]
159 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will review his position in relation to the commission of inquiry proposal from the Shell to Sea campaign; his views on face to face talks between representatives of the Erris and north Mayo community and the management teams of companies (details supplied); the way the present stand off will be resolved for the wellbeing of the people of Mayo and Ireland; and the role he is prepared to pursue to find an urgent agreed resolution. [38833/06]
175 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number and nature of the issues which lead to the ongoing Corrib gas field dispute; the extent to which all such issues have been examined; the areas on which resolution or agreement has been achieved; the number of issues outstanding and the best way these might be resolved with a view to enabling the development to proceed and the availability of product for the market here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38769/06]
366 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects all the outstanding issues surrounding the development of the Corrib gas field, onshore and offshore, to be resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38884/06]
367 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number and nature of the issues which lead to the ongoing Corrib gas field dispute; the extent to which all such issues have been examined; the areas on which resolution or agreement has been achieved; the number of issues outstanding and the way these will be resolved with a view to enabling the development to proceed and the availability of product for the market here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38885/06]
368 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he proposes to examine again all aspects of the Corrib gas issues with particular reference to the need to utilise and make available this important natural resource at the earliest possible date; if he will make one final effort to resolve the outstanding matters which if allowed to continue will do considerable, if not irreparable, damage to the national image; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38886/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 156, 159, 175 and 366 to 368, inclusive, together.
In view of the strategic importance of the Corrib Gas project, I have, over the past eighteen months, been proactively engaged in efforts to create the conditions that would allow the difficulties associated with the project to be resolved.
My statutory responsibilities in this matter relate to the regulatory aspects of petroleum exploration and development and I would like to emphasise that in this regard all of the required statutory approvals are in place. These approvals were only given after intense scrutiny of the various applications made to my Department. It was only after my predecessor was fully satisfied both in relation to the technical, safety and environmental aspects of the proposals that approval was given.
Authorisations were granted for the Corrib gas field under a number of provisions. Under the Continental Shelf Act 1968, authorisation was given for the construction of the sub-sea facilities. Consent was also given for the Plan of Development of the field under the Petroleum and Other Minerals Development Act 1960. Under the Gas Act 1976, as amended, consent was given for the construction of a gas pipeline from the gas field through the offshore up to the terminal building. A foreshore licence was also granted under the Foreshore Acts. In addition, An Bord Pleanála granted planning permission for the gas terminal.
Arising from local concerns about the safety of the onshore upstream gas pipeline, I had a further comprehensive safety review of the pipeline carried out by Advantica consultants last year. Advantica is a world leader in the development and application of advanced hazard and risk assessment technologies for gas pipelines.
It was a priority for me that people who had views relating to the safety of the pipeline should have the opportunity to have those views considered by Advantica. During the period of the review, views were invited from local residents, communities and any interested party. A two-day public hearing was also held in the locality. The draft safety review was presented to the community and further comments were invited before the report was published.
The Advantica report found that proper consideration was given to safety issues in the selection process for the design option and route. Moreover, the review found that so long as a number of measures were implemented, the project would carry a substantial safety margin and that both the pipeline and route should be accepted as meeting or exceeding international best practice.
A separate Technical Advisory Group, which supervised the safety review, made a series of further recommendations, covering, among other things, issues of design code, the drawing up of a Pipeline Integrity Management Plan and a range of measures on which the developer would have to gain approval to ensure that the actual construction and installation of the pipeline would be to highest international standards.
I published the full details of all of these recommendations in May of this year. The developer, Shell, has accepted the recommendations made by both Advantica and the Technical Advisory Group and has committed itself to meeting all of these requirements fully. Shell has notified my Department that they are well advanced with the additional work necessary to comply with these requirements.
I also appointed Mr. Peter Cassells as mediator in the dispute. Mr. Cassells was appointed following consultation with the protestors and Shell. Both sides agreed to this appointment. Mr. Cassells reported in July 2006. Shell has accepted the recommendations made by the mediator. Shell has indicated publicly that, in line with Mr Cassells' recommendations, it is considering alternative pipeline routes and will consult widely when it has come to a conclusion in relation to options.
Protestors have recently been focusing their concerns on the siting of the terminal at Bellanaboy. Although I do not have a function in relation to planning matters, I would point out that the terminal has undergone a rigorous planning process over a three and a half year period following which An Bord Pleanála granted permission for the terminal. The terminal has been the subject of two applications for planning permission to Mayo County Council, one of which was following an initial refusal by An Bord Pleanála.
I do not believe that there is a basis for a commission of enquiry as the various aspects of this project have been subject to rigorous scrutiny through a number of formal consent processes. The project has already been delayed to a very significant extent and a formal commission of enquiry would inevitably prolong the delay in getting a strategically important resource into production, without serving any useful purpose.
In conclusion, although the current situation at the terminal site is of course regrettable, I think any reasonable person will agree that the Advantica, the Technical Advisory Group and the Cassells reports moved a huge distance towards allaying the local concerns relating to this project. It has always been my priority to encourage dialogue and to enlist the help of independent bodies and individuals, as I have outlined.
157 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to deficiencies in the postal delivery services which appear to affect specific areas; if he has issued instructions or had discussions with the Regulator of An Post, with a view to identification of the underlying cause or causes of such deficiencies in the service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38773/06]
Matters relating to quality and levels of postal service are a matter in the first instance for the management and board of An Post.
The Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in accordance with the provisions of S.I. 616 of 2002 European Communities (Postal Services) Regulations, is responsible for the monitoring, measurement and regulation of the postal sector including measuring the levels of service to be achieved by An Post and ensuring that the company abides by its statutory universal service obligations.
160 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason the Postal Services Miscellaneous Provisions Bill was withdrawn; if it is intended to replace it with alternative legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38807/06]
The Postal (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill that was published in 2001 provided for the issue, sale and disposal of shares in An Post in the context of an Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) and possible strategic alliance. The Bill also contained ancillary provisions arising out of a possible change of ownership.
The financial and industrial relations environment in An Post has changed substantially since 2001. The company experienced significant losses that led to the adoption of a recovery strategy by the Board. Implementation of the recovery strategy which included negotiation of a new industrial relations agreement in order to return the company to sustained profitably became the key focus in relation to An Post. As a result, the Postal Miscellaneous Provisions Bill, the objective of which was to give statutory effect to the ESOP, was withdrawn from the Dail Order paper on the basis of the uncertain IR and financial situation prevailing in An Post.
Nevertheless, the Government and I remain fully committed to an ESOP in An Post if it can be demonstrated that real business transformation can occur in the context of the recovery strategy. If and when this is achieved, the legislative agenda can be revisited.
162 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will review and improve the compensation package proposed for drift net fishermen particularly in areas like the south east where historic and modest fisheries are being terminated following the Government decision on the report of the Independent Salmon Group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38836/06]
As the Deputy is aware I appointed the Independent Group to examine the implications of alignment with the scientific advice for the commercial salmon fishing sector in 2007 and beyond. As part of their remit the group made recommendations to address any financial hardship that may be experienced by the sector. The approach they adopted to determining the hardship payments is robust and convincing.
In their report the group commented that the level of hardship likely to be experienced would vary both in extent and scale. Taking all factors into account and based on available information, noting particularly that there is no legal obligation on the State to provide compensation in a situation where it is imposing management measures that are fundamentally in the public good, they proposed to provide a measure of relief to each individual in line with the level of hardship likely to be experienced. They recommended that this should be based on the recent catch history of the individual licence holder (2001 to 2005). The Government accepted the recommendation of the Independent group and has determined that the level of payment should be based on the average net income per salmon in the commercial fishery for the past five years (2001 to 2005). This income calculation was based, by the group, on the average price obtained per fish each year less the costs incurred by fishermen. Each individual licence holder who applies to the fund is set to receive six times their average catch multiplied by the average net income per salmon. An additional payment equal to 6 times the current licence fee will be made in all cases. I believe this is a fair and reasonable allocation and does not need to be modified.
The Deputy will appreciate that cessation of the mixed stock interceptory fishery should, in particular, benefit the returning stocks to areas like the south east.
165 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the advice and submissions he has received with regard to safety issues associated with mobile phones and mobile phone masts; the safety monitoring measures that are in place to assess non-ionising radiation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38715/06]
The limits for non-ionising radiation are global limits established internationally by the International Commission for Non Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP). There is currently no scientific or medical evidence that emissions below the level of internationally recognised guidelines from mobile telephony are injurious to health. The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), the regulator, conducts audit measurements to verify compliance with these limits.
The health concerns of some members of the public were highlighted in the Joint Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources' "Non-ionising radiation from mobile phone handsets and masts" report, published in June 2005. This report made a number of recommendations about the continuing safety of mobile phones.
In September of last year Government set up an interdepartmental committee, chaired by my Department, to report on appropriate actions on these recommendations and examine Government policy with regard to any potential health effects, if any, of electromagnetic fields. In order that the interdepartmental Committee will have the most up to date scientific and medical evidence available to them, the Committee has set up an Expert Group to prepare a report on the potential health effects of electromagnetic fields.
As part of their review, the Expert Group sought submissions from individuals, local authorities, Industry and concerned citizens groups. These submissions provided the Group with the key relevant questions raised by the respondents. They met with representatives of some of these last February, where further information was sought by the Expert Group regarding the issues faced from an Irish perspective.
The Expert Group are now finalising their report. This report will cover all aspects of potential health effects of electromagnetic fields, including; radio frequency fields used in mobile telephony; extremely low frequency fields used for electricity power distribution; static fields used for medical imaging; potential risks to children and the question of whether some individuals may be sensitive to these fields.
It is not possible to present the recommendations of the Interdepartmental Committee at this time, as the work of the Committee is ongoing and is not due to completed until the end of the year.
166 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has examined the Price Waterhouse Report and analysis of petroleum exploration terms in Ireland, UK, Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands; if he will incorporate parts of the report in future exploration and licensing policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38748/06]
I am aware of a report "An Economic Analysis of Petroleum Exploitation Terms in Ireland, the U.K., Norway, Denmark, and the Netherlands" that was published by Price Waterhouse in 1988. One of the authors of that report is leading the team that has been engaged by my Department to assist with the review of the licensing terms for petroleum exploration and production. The work already undertaken by my Department and its advisers in reviewing the existing licensing regime, together with the work currently being undertaken by Indecon, has included peer analysis that included the oil provinces mentioned by the Deputy.
167 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he will publish the Deloitte and Touche and William Fry Solicitors report on the future of TG4 in the context of the current consultation process on the Broadcasting Bill and his decision to make TG4 an independent statutory body; the amount this report has cost his Department; the way he plans for TG4 to be funded in the long-term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38859/06]
I intend to publish the Deloitte and Touche report, on the preparation of an implementation plan for the establishment of TG4 as an independent statutory body, in whole or in part, in due course. However, the report will first need to be considered by the Project Management Group set up to oversee the establishment of TG4 as an independent body. The report contains some commercially sensitive information that may not be published. The cost to the Department of this report was €88,935, inclusive of VAT. TG4 will continue to receive grant aid from the Exchequer to fund their operations in 2007, along with the income they receive from advertising.
169 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department has held discussions with the energy and exploration departments of experienced oil and gas provinces like Norway, Denmark, Newfoundland or the UK in relation to the development of exploration expertise in the public service and the licensing and management of national fossil fuel exploration and recovery; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38835/06]
My Department has formal contacts with the Oil and Gas Ministries of a number of other north-western European countries through annual meetings. The other countries involved include Norway, Denmark, the UK, France, Germany and the Netherlands. These contacts between senior officials are aimed at sharing information on the effectiveness of promotional strategies, licensing terms and the overall status of exploration and development activities. My Department's officials also communicate with the provincial Governments of Canada's Atlantic provinces and are particularly active in developing collaborative transatlantic petroleum research programmes.
Although countries clearly compete for investment in the exploration sector, our experience is that exchanges at an official level are surprisingly constructive and mutually beneficial. International support for research is also proving vital for exploiting oil and gas resources, and Ireland is working to strengthen co-operation in this area.
As the Deputy is aware, my Department is currently undertaking a review of the licensing regime under which petroleum exploration companies operate in this country. The work being undertaken includes peer analysis that included the oil provinces mentioned by the Deputy.
170 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects to extend the broadcasting and transmission of RTÉ radio and television to neighbouring jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38799/06]
As the Deputy may already be aware, RTÉ's statutory mandate, as defined in Section 28(1) of the Broadcasting Act, 2001, provides that RTÉ's radio and television services shall be made available, in so far as is reasonably practicable, to the whole community on the Island of Ireland. As such RTÉ's statutory mandate does not extend to the provision of radio or television services to Irish communities living in Britain or elsewhere. As a consequence RTÉ may not use the proceeds of the television licence fee to provide such services. However, it should be noted that many people living outside of the Island of Ireland already enjoy access to a considerable quantity of RTÉ's television programming by way of the Internet, and to RTÉ's radio services by way of satellite, LW and MW and the Internet.
In the light of the recommendations of the Task Force on Emigration, it is proposed to amend the public service remits of RTÉ and TG4 to allow for the provision and public funding of broadcasting services to Irish communities in Britain. Proposals to amend the Broadcasting Act, 2001 are contained in the draft general scheme of the Broadcasting Bill, which has been submitted to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources for the purposes of public consultation under the eConsultation initiative. I am now considering extracting this provision from the Broadcasting Bill in using it in a stand-alone bill.
171 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has reviewed the new World Energy Outlook 2006 from the International Energy Agency which warns that many countries are on an unsustainable energy path characterised by under investment, a strong risk of supply disruptions and increasing greenhouse gas emissions and face a dirty, insecure and expensive energy future; if he will review his Green Paper targets for renewable electricity and overall renewable energy in view of this further warning and the alternative policy scenario as set out in the IEA’s publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38829/06]
I welcome the timely publication of the International Energy Agency's World Energy Outlook 2006 which maps a new global energy future contrasting existing directions with how to change course. The outlook responds to the request from G8 leaders and others to advise on alternative energy scenarios and strategies aimed at a clean clever and competitive energy future. The Alternative Policy Scenario set out by the IEA states that increases in demand and emissions can be significantly reduced if a range of policies and measures are implemented globally. The various elements of the IEA's Alternative Policy Scenario are being assessed and will, where appropriate to the Irish situation, be reflected in overall policy directions and targets in the Energy Policy White Paper.
172 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the way his Department assesses the latest claims by offshore exploration companies which seem to indicate a very bright future for the industry in extracting Ireland’s offshore oil and gas reserves; when he expects to receive the Indecon report on the review of Irish mineral and offshore licensing; and his plans to change the oil and gas licensing regime here. [38834/06]
I am unclear as to what claims made by offshore exploration companies the Deputy is referring to. My Department, however, presented a paper at its conference in Dublin earlier this month on "Exploring Atlantic Ireland" which referred to the fact that the Irish offshore is under-explored although an assessment of resource potential would indicate that this could be in the region of 10 billion barrels of oil equivalent (BBOE).
Though these figures look promising, I have to be realistic and am aware of the high cost involved in exploring for hydrocarbons in the deep waters of the Atlantic. Ireland may describe its prospectivity in the Atlantic Margin in terms of potential whereas in other provinces such as the UK and Norway their prospectivity is described as ‘proven'. The paper mentioned above gave an honest assessment of what may be found offshore Ireland, but we need the industry to undertake the high-cost and high-risk activity of exploration to find these potential hydrocarbons.
In relation to the licensing terms under which offshore exploration companies operate in this country, my Department is currently undertaking a review of the licensing regime. Indecon International Economic Consultants has been engaged to assist my Department in this regard and is due to report to my Department by the end of this month.
173 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to alleviate interference with television or radio reception caused by mass turbines or other structures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38797/06]
The functions under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1926-1988 for the investigation of interference were transferred from the Minister to the Communications Regulator (now ComReg) on its establishment in 1997. Accordingly, I have no function regarding this matter.
174 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he proposes to implement the recommendations of the Dingle Report with particular reference to the optimisation of communications infrastructure available throughout the country with a view to ensuring competition and delivery of a high quality service to consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38757/06]
In April 2005 a team of advisors was engaged to examine the potential for enhancing and augmenting existing state owned infrastructure. This team submitted a Feasibility Report in December 2005. The report found that, while technically feasible, there would be considerable financial, legal, regulatory, operational and organisational challenges in harnessing and enhancing the existing state owned infrastructures. It is not my intention to publish the report given the extent of the commercially sensitive information contained in it. My Department is considering options to enhance competitive backhaul connectivity.
176 Mr. Pattison asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the way the salmon surplus will be distributed following the ending of drift netting and the introduction of single stock management; if he and the Government have concerns that the salmon and other fisheries will become the preserve of vested private interests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38838/06]
It is the Government's strongly held view that our wild salmon stock is a national asset, which must be conserved and protected, as well as being exploited as a resource by us all on a sustainable basis. In future the wild salmon fishery will be managed on the basis of individual river stocks. Harvesting of salmon will be restricted to those rivers that have been identified as meeting their conservation limit in compliance with Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and wild flora and fauna, the Habitats Directive.
It is proposed that the Chief Executive Officers of the Regional Fisheries Boards, having consulted the Fishery District Committees, will decide on the allocation of the salmon quota on a river or river catchment basis in 2007 in accordance with the draft Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme Regulations for the 2007 season, which were published for consultation on 18 November 2006. The statutory consultation period continues until 17 December 2006.
177 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on Gate Two of the renewable generation offers and commitments; if he will provide an evaluation of Ireland’s renewable energy targets and achievements when Gate Two joins the generation mix; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38827/06]
Ireland has a target to treble the contribution from renewable energy sources in electricity production from 5% approximately to 15% by 2010. The target approximates to 1650 megawatts of generating plant. We have also proposed a target of 30% by 2020 in the Green Paper on Energy Policy.
There is currently 940MW of renewable powered electricity capacity connected. This consists of approximately 670MWs of wind powered plant, 236MW of hydro powered plant with the balance (c. 34MWs) made up of different biomass technologies. The additional new capacity required to achieve the target will be delivered by projects already selected under the AER VI competition and the new Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) programme.
Future targets across all renewable technologies, beyond the current programme, will be set in the context of the White Paper on Energy Policy. The processing of Gate 2 applications for grid connections is a matter for the appropriate grid operator and the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER). I have no statutory function in that process.
179 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the degree to which the digital hub is achieving its targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38746/06]
The Digital Hub Development Agency has entered into a 3 year Performance Contract with my own Department that commits it to specific targets. The targets to be achieved during the 3 year period commencing 1st April 2006 are outlined in four specific areas namely: property; enterprise development; community and learning programmes; and organisational performance. These targets will be reviewed annually beginning in April 2007.
180 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the steps he will take to provide a State controlled broadband and telephone network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38579/06]
The provision of telecommunications services is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated where appropriate by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers. The Government has recognised, however, that a lack of investment by the private sector in the necessary telecommunications infrastructure has acted as an impediment to the speedy rollout of competitive, affordable broadband services in Ireland, principally in the regions. In partnership with local and regional authorities, the Government is funding the construction of high-speed, open-access telecommunications networks, known as Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), in around 120 towns and cities nationwide. These publicly owned networks are offered on a wholesale, non-discriminatory basis to multiple private sector telecommunications operators to enable them to offer a range of telecommunications services directly to consumers.
181 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options for the retention of the maximum scale of services to An Post with particular reference to ensure the viability of the company and deregulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38777/06]
The retention of the maximum scale of services to An Post is a policy and operational matter for the Board and management of An Post and one in which I have no function.
182 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will introduce measures for the regulation of the content of mobile phone products and services; if he will end the self-regulation of this sector and incorporate RegTel into ComReg; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38860/06]
I have no plans for the regulation of the content of mobile phone products and services. The Office of the Regulator of Premium Rate Telecoms Services, RegTel, already authorises and supervises the content and promotion of premium rate telecommunications services within the Irish market and is independent. RegTel does not report to me as Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and I have no plans to amend its status. The area of consumer protection within which RegTel operates falls mainly under the remit of my colleague the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs. In addition, the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, has no role in relation to content.
183 Mr. Morgan asked the Taoiseach the number and the percentage of the overall workforce who earn twice the average industrial earnings; the number and percentage of the overall workforce who earn three times the average industrial earnings; the number and percentage of the overall workforce who earn four times the average industrial earnings; and the number and percentage of the overall workforce who earn five or more times the average industrial earnings. [38484/06]
The latest results in relation to the distribution of earnings are from the 2003 National Employment Survey. The results refer to a total of 1,440,400 employees out of 1,793,400 persons at work in March. The survey does not measure self-employed earnings and it does not include the agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors. Average earnings for employees in the Manufacturing, Mining and Quarrying sector were €15.50 per hour in March 2003. An estimated 8.6% of all employees earned more than €31 per hour or twice the average earnings per hour for the Manufacturing, Mining and Quarrying sector; 2.5% of all employees earned more than €46.50 per hour; 0.9% of all employees earned more than €62 per hour and 0.4% of all employees earned more than €75.50 per hour. The National Employment Survey (NES) is being undertaken on an annual basis from 2006 onwards and the Central Statistics Office (CSO) is planning to publish the results of the March 2006 survey in the middle of next year, 2007.
184 Mr. Morgan asked the Taoiseach the reason employment statistics are not provided by county; his views on whether this is unacceptable and impedes the pinpointing of employment and unemployment trends in specific counties such as Donegal which experience particular problems. [38566/06]
The Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) which began in September 1997, has as its main purpose the production of quarterly labour force estimates that include the official measure of employment and unemployment in the state (ILO basis). The legal basis for the survey is EU Council Regulation 577/98 which stipulates that Member States must conduct a continuous labour force survey yielding quarterly results of acceptable accuracy at State and regional levels. In Ireland's case the regional requirement refers to the eight Regional Authorities. The QNHS has been designed to meet these requirements in an efficient manner and this involves interviewing over 30,000 households (approximately 2% of all households) throughout the country each quarter. This is a huge sample in absolute and, in particular, relative terms but it is still not sufficient to provide labour force estimates of sufficient quality at a county level. The accuracy of the estimates is directly linked to the size of sample and the provision of county data to the standards set for regional figures would necessitate a quadrupling of the current sample. For cost, response burden and other practical reasons such an increase is not considered to be a viable option. Details at a county level on employment and unemployment are available from the Census of Population on a five yearly basis while indications on unemployment based on the Live Register are available for local offices within each county each month. These data, taken in conjunction with the quarterly data on regions from the QNHS, provide a cost-effective means of monitoring trends in the labour force at sub-national level.
185 Mr. Morgan asked the Taoiseach the median earnings at present and in each of the past five years. [38567/06]
The latest results in relation to the distribution of earnings are from the 2003 National Employment Survey. The results refer to a total of 1,440,400 employees out of 1,793,400 persons at work in March 2003. The survey does not measure self-employed earnings and it does not include the agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors. The results for March 2003 showed that the median earnings of all employees was €13.08 per hour, i.e. half of all employees earned less than this amount and half earned more. The National Employment Survey (NES) is being undertaken on an annual basis from 2006 onwards and the Central Statistics Office (CSO) is planning to publish the results of the March 2006 survey in the middle of next year, 2007.
186 Mr. Boyle asked the Taoiseach the statutory processes involved in the appointment of chairs and board members of executive bodies, advisory bodies, task forces, accountability agencies and working groups under the remit of his Department and their legislative origin. [38471/06]
The processes for the appointment of the President and Commissioners of the Law Reform Commission is set out in the Law Reform Commission Act, 1975. The process for the appointment of the chair and members of the National Statistics Board is as set out in Section 18 of the Statistics Act, 1993. Following the passing of the National Economic and Social Development Office Act, 2006, and subject to the making of a Commencement Order, the processes for the appointment of the chairs and members of the National Economic and Social Development Office and its associate bodies (National Economic and Social Council, National Economic and Social Forum and National Centre for Partnership and Performance) will be as set out in that Act.
187 Mr. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the trend in prices in the Eurozone countries and in Ireland under each of the ten product categories covered in the harmonised consumer price index in each year since 2001. [38472/06]
The table that follows this reply presents the annual rates of change for the twelve eurozone member states as well as the eurozone average from 2001 to 2005 for each of the twelve main COICOP commodity groups covered by the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices. The latest available annual rates of change, which refer to October 2006, are also presented.
|
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
Oct. 2006 |
|
|
COICOP 01 Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+4.9 |
+2.8 |
+2.1 |
+1.0 |
+0.7 |
+3.0p |
|
be Belgium |
+4.5 |
+2.3 |
+1.9 |
+1.1 |
+1.7 |
+4.5 |
|
de Germany |
+4.5 |
+0.8 |
-0.1 |
-0.4 |
+0.4 |
+2.9 |
|
gr Greece |
+5.3 |
+5.8 |
+4.9 |
+0.9 |
+0.8 |
+4.5 |
|
es Spain |
+5.4 |
+4.7 |
+4.1 |
+3.9 |
+3.2 |
+4.4 |
|
fr France |
+5.5 |
+2.7 |
+2.3 |
+0.5 |
+0.1 |
+2.1 |
|
ie Ireland |
+6.5 |
+3.4 |
+1.4 |
-0.2 |
-0.7 |
+1.6 |
|
it Italy |
+4.0 |
+3.6 |
+3.2 |
+2.1 |
-0.1 |
+2.7p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+4.7 |
+3.9 |
+2.0 |
+1.8 |
+1.7 |
+2.7 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+7.1 |
+3.5 |
+1.2 |
-3.5 |
-1.2 |
+1.8p |
|
at Austria |
+3.3 |
+1.2 |
+1.5 |
+1.7 |
+1.1 |
+2.0p |
|
pt Portugal |
+6.5 |
+1.5 |
+2.3 |
+1.1 |
-0.6 |
+3.5 |
|
fi Finland |
+4.4 |
+3.1 |
+0.6 |
+0.8 |
+0.3 |
+2.9 |
|
COICOP 02 Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+2.9 |
+4.2 |
+5.9 |
+7.5 |
+4.9 |
+2.9p |
|
be Belgium |
+1.9 |
+1.6 |
+4.4 |
+4.8 |
+2.8 |
+0.9 |
|
de Germany |
+1.7 |
+4.0 |
+5.3 |
+6.8 |
+8.5 |
+3.6 |
|
gr Greece |
+7.4 |
+7.0 |
+4.2 |
+4.5 |
+2.2 |
+10.6 |
|
es Spain |
+3.2 |
+5.7 |
+3.4 |
+4.3 |
+5.1 |
+0.9 |
|
fr France |
+3.2 |
+4.9 |
+8.8 |
+14.3 |
+0.1 |
+0.5 |
|
ie Ireland |
+2.5 |
+5.6 |
+9.9 |
+3.5 |
+0.6 |
+0.5 |
|
it Italy |
+2.6 |
+2.1 |
+7.0 |
+7.9 |
+6.8 |
+4.9p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+3.9 |
+5.2 |
+5.7 |
+6.5 |
+6.7 |
+3.5 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+6.7 |
+4.6 |
+3.6 |
+7.3 |
+2.8 |
+1.4p |
|
at Austria |
+3.9 |
+4.0 |
+3.0 |
+1.8 |
+6.3 |
+0.9p |
|
pt Portugal |
+3.3 |
+4.9 |
+4.6 |
+2.9 |
+4.5 |
+9.0 |
|
fi Finland |
+1.9 |
+1.7 |
+1.1 |
-10.7 |
-1.8 |
+1.2 |
|
COICOP 03 Clothing and Footwear |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+0.6 |
+2.1 |
+0.9 |
+0.7 |
+0.1 |
+1.0p |
|
be Belgium |
+0.7 |
+1.1 |
+1.0 |
+0.6 |
-0.1 |
+0.5 |
|
de Germany |
+0.8 |
+0.7 |
-0.8 |
-0.7 |
-1.9 |
+0.1 |
|
gr Greece |
+3.2 |
+3.5 |
+2.0 |
+4.1 |
+4.7 |
+3.2 |
|
es Spain |
-0.6 |
+5.1 |
+3.8 |
+1.8 |
+1.4 |
+1.3 |
|
fr France |
+0.5 |
+0.9 |
-0.3 |
+0.3 |
+0.2 |
+0.6 |
|
ie Ireland |
-2.8 |
-4.2 |
-4.1 |
-3.5 |
-2.8 |
-1.8 |
|
it Italy |
+0.6 |
+2.9 |
+2.2 |
+1.9 |
+1.2 |
+1.3p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+2.1 |
+1.7 |
+1.5 |
+0.5 |
+0.5 |
+0.2 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+1.8 |
+3.2 |
-3.1 |
-1.9 |
-2.6 |
+1.6p |
|
at Austria |
-0.3 |
+0.3 |
-0.1 |
-0.6 |
-1.2 |
-0.4p |
|
pt Portugal |
+1.5 |
+2.5 |
+1.2 |
-1.1 |
-1.2 |
+6.5 |
|
fi Finland |
+1.0 |
-1.1 |
-0.2 |
+0.3 |
-0.6 |
-0.9 |
|
COICOP 04 Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+3.0 |
+1.3 |
+2.5 |
+2.5 |
+4.7 |
+3.6p |
|
be Belgium |
+3.7 |
+0.2 |
+1.4 |
+3.0 |
+5.6 |
+3.8 |
|
de Germany |
+3.2 |
+0.7 |
+1.8 |
+1.9 |
+4.0 |
+2.6 |
|
gr Greece |
+2.7 |
+3.8 |
+4.5 |
+4.9 |
+9.2 |
+4.9 |
|
es Spain |
+2.9 |
+2.3 |
+2.9 |
+3.5 |
+5.3 |
+4.9 |
|
fr France |
+1.1 |
+1.7 |
+2.7 |
+2.9 |
+4.7 |
+3.7 |
|
ie Ireland |
+5.8 |
+4.1 |
+4.2 |
+3.8 |
+9.6 |
+5.5 |
|
it Italy |
+3.0 |
+0.4 |
+3.4 |
+2.0 |
+5.0 |
+4.6p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+1.7 |
+0.2 |
+2.8 |
+3.1 |
+6.8 |
+2.0 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+6.5 |
+4.0 |
+4.3 |
+3.2 |
+5.9 |
+5.0p |
|
at Austria |
+3.0 |
+0.6 |
+1.6 |
+4.2 |
+6.2 |
+4.6p |
|
pt Portugal |
+4.1 |
+3.0 |
+4.2 |
+3.0 |
+4.4 |
+3.2 |
|
fi Finland |
+2.8 |
+2.7 |
+4.0 |
+2.1 |
+3.2 |
+2.0 |
|
COICOP 05 Furnishings, household equipment and routine household maintenance |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+1.8 |
+1.7 |
+1.3 |
+0.9 |
+0.8 |
+1.0p |
|
be Belgium |
+2.6 |
+1.9 |
+1.2 |
+0.9 |
+0.9 |
+1.2 |
|
de Germany |
+0.9 |
+1.1 |
+0.3 |
-0.2 |
-0.1 |
+0.1 |
|
gr Greece |
+2.5 |
+1.6 |
+1.8 |
+1.5 |
+2.1 |
+2.2 |
|
es Spain |
+2.0 |
+2.0 |
+2.0 |
+1.6 |
+2.1 |
+2.6 |
|
fr France |
+1.9 |
+1.4 |
+1.3 |
+1.2 |
+0.9 |
+0.6 |
|
ie Ireland |
+3.2 |
+1.4 |
-0.7 |
-1.8 |
-1.5 |
-1.4 |
|
it Italy |
+2.0 |
+1.9 |
+2.0 |
+2.1 |
+1.6 |
+1.7p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+2.1 |
+1.6 |
+1.5 |
+1.7 |
+1.5 |
+1.6 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+5.2 |
+3.9 |
+1.7 |
-0.9 |
-0.3 |
+0.1p |
|
at Austria |
+1.3 |
+1.6 |
+1.2 |
-0.1 |
-0.3 |
+0.8p |
|
pt Portugal |
+3.2 |
+3.0 |
+2.4 |
+1.6 |
+1.3 |
+1.0 |
|
fi Finland |
+2.2 |
+1.5 |
+0.4 |
+0.6 |
+0.6 |
+1.0 |
|
COICOP 06 Health |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+1.2 |
+2.5 |
+2.2 |
+7.9 |
+2.1 |
+1.7p |
|
be Belgium |
+1.1 |
+1.5 |
+2.4 |
+1.4 |
+2.2 |
+2.3 |
|
de Germany |
+1.2 |
+0.6 |
+0.4 |
+19.2 |
+1.9 |
+1.1 |
|
gr Greece |
+2.7 |
+5.1 |
+4.6 |
+5.3 |
+4.4 |
+2.5 |
|
es Spain |
+1.8 |
+2.7 |
+2.1 |
+0.4 |
+0.9 |
+1.5 |
|
fr France |
-0.1 |
+1.4 |
+3.2 |
+2.9 |
+2.2 |
+4.1 |
|
ie Ireland |
+6.7 |
+10.1 |
+7.7 |
+6.0 |
+6.2 |
+4.3 |
|
it Italy |
-1.2 |
+4.2 |
+3.2 |
+3.3 |
+2.3 |
-0.4p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+1.7 |
-5.1 |
-2.4 |
+2.2 |
+0.2 |
+2.5 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+6.8 |
+6.5 |
+2.7 |
+9.6 |
+1.2 |
+3.9p |
|
at Austria |
+6.1 |
+3.0 |
+1.3 |
+1.1 |
+4.9 |
+0.6p |
|
pt Portugal |
+3.6 |
+4.8 |
+2.3 |
+1.7 |
+0.9 |
+2.7 |
|
fi Finland |
+2.6 |
+5.0 |
+3.1 |
+2.1 |
+1.9 |
+0.0 |
|
COICOP 07 Transport |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+1.2 |
+1.8 |
+2.3 |
+3.1 |
+4.3 |
-0.7p |
|
be Belgium |
+1.2 |
+0.8 |
+1.6 |
+3.6 |
+5.8 |
-2.1 |
|
de Germany |
+1.5 |
+2.0 |
+2.2 |
+2.3 |
+3.4 |
-1.2 |
|
gr Greece |
+1.6 |
+0.5 |
+3.1 |
+3.5 |
+4.7 |
-0.9 |
|
es Spain |
+0.8 |
+2.1 |
+2.1 |
+4.5 |
+6.4 |
-1.1 |
|
fr France |
+0.2 |
+1.1 |
+2.4 |
+3.4 |
+4.4 |
-0.6 |
|
ie Ireland |
-1.9 |
+3.1 |
+2.8 |
+4.1 |
+3.7 |
-0.8 |
|
it Italy |
+1.5 |
+2.0 |
+2.6 |
+3.2 |
+4.5 |
+0.5p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+0.5 |
-0.5 |
+1.6 |
+6.0 |
+6.6 |
-4.4 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+2.7 |
+1.7 |
+2.8 |
+3.6 |
+4.2 |
-1.1p |
|
at Austria |
+1.7 |
+0.8 |
+1.1 |
+3.5 |
+3.7 |
-0.3p |
|
pt Portugal |
+4.8 |
+5.0 |
+4.3 |
+3.6 |
+5.8 |
+0.8 |
|
fi Finland |
+1.0 |
+0.6 |
-0.1 |
+0.7 |
+2.6 |
-1.1 |
|
COICOP 08 Communications |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
-4.0 |
-0.3 |
-0.6 |
-2.0 |
-2.3 |
-2.6p |
|
be Belgium |
-6.7 |
-0.1 |
+0.6 |
+1.3 |
-0.5 |
-2.1 |
|
de Germany |
-5.9 |
+1.7 |
+0.7 |
-0.9 |
-1.3 |
-2.4 |
|
gr Greece |
-1.8 |
-4.5 |
-4.6 |
-4.3 |
-0.4 |
+0.2 |
|
es Spain |
-0.8 |
-2.9 |
-2.6 |
-1.1 |
-1.6 |
-1.3 |
|
fr France |
-4.5 |
-0.4 |
-0.5 |
+0.2 |
-0.3 |
-3.9 |
|
ie Ireland |
-8.3 |
+2.2 |
+1.4 |
+2.7 |
-0.2 |
-0.1 |
|
it Italy |
-2.2 |
-1.4 |
-1.7 |
-6.4 |
-4.5 |
-2.7p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
-11.7 |
-4.3 |
-2.5 |
-2.4 |
-4.7 |
-2.4 |
|
nl Netherlands |
-2.3 |
+0.1 |
+3.1 |
-0.7 |
-3.8 |
-3.8p |
|
at Austria |
-0.1 |
-0.8 |
-1.7 |
-1.2 |
-7.9 |
-1.7p |
|
pt Portugal |
-2.2 |
+0.8 |
-1.1 |
-1.0 |
-0.2 |
-1.0 |
|
fi Finland |
+2.8 |
+0.7 |
-3.4 |
-8.3 |
-11.4 |
+0.7 |
|
COICOP 09 Recreation and culture |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+1.4 |
+1.3 |
+0.2 |
-0.1 |
-0.1 |
+0.0p |
|
be Belgium |
+2.6 |
+0.8 |
-0.8 |
-0.2 |
-0.3 |
+0.9 |
|
de Germany |
+0.1 |
+0.4 |
-0.6 |
-1.1 |
+0.1 |
+0.2 |
|
gr Greece |
+3.5 |
+2.8 |
+2.4 |
+2.9 |
+1.5 |
+3.8 |
|
es Spain |
+2.7 |
+2.5 |
+0.6 |
+0.1 |
-0.2 |
-0.3 |
|
fr France |
+0.3 |
+0.5 |
-0.5 |
-0.6 |
-1.0 |
-1.6 |
|
ie Ireland |
+4.9 |
+6.3 |
+4.1 |
+1.2 |
+0.0 |
+2.7 |
|
it Italy |
+1.7 |
+2.6 |
+1.7 |
+2.0 |
+1.1 |
+1.3p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+2.4 |
+2.9 |
+2.3 |
+0.5 |
+0.9 |
+1.6 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+4.6 |
+3.7 |
+0.9 |
-1.0 |
-0.7 |
+0.4p |
|
at Austria |
+1.5 |
+1.6 |
+0.1 |
+0.5 |
-0.8 |
-2.1p |
|
pt Portugal |
+2.6 |
+2.9 |
+1.2 |
+2.1 |
+1.7 |
-0.1 |
|
fi Finland |
+3.7 |
+1.8 |
+1.0 |
+1.3 |
-0.7 |
-0.3 |
|
COCIOP 10 Education |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+3.0 |
+4.0 |
+3.5 |
+3.4 |
+3.1 |
+3.4p |
|
be Belgium |
+2.1 |
+3.0 |
+1.3 |
+0.9 |
+2.1 |
+2.4 |
|
de Germany |
+1.3 |
+2.6 |
+2.1 |
+3.3 |
+2.2 |
+3.4 |
|
gr Greece |
+3.7 |
+4.0 |
+4.5 |
+4.4 |
+4.1 |
+3.8 |
|
es Spain |
+4.1 |
+3.8 |
+4.9 |
+4.0 |
+4.2 |
+4.0 |
|
fr France |
+2.4 |
+2.6 |
+2.8 |
+2.8 |
+2.6 |
+3.6 |
|
ie Ireland |
+7.2 |
+10.3 |
+9.1 |
+5.9 |
+6.0 |
+5.9 |
|
it Italy |
+3.2 |
+3.0 |
+2.7 |
+2.2 |
+3.3 |
+2.3p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+2.0 |
+8.5 |
+7.5 |
+1.0 |
+1.8 |
+2.4 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+2.9 |
+4.4 |
+4.1 |
+2.8 |
-3.7 |
+1.2p |
|
at Austria |
+10.0 |
+21.9 |
+3.3 |
+1.9 |
+1.9 |
+7.9p |
|
pt Portugal |
+5.2 |
+5.8 |
+6.6 |
+9.4 |
+7.0 |
+4.0 |
|
fi Finland |
+3.5 |
+3.2 |
+6.0 |
+5.5 |
+4.0 |
+1.6 |
|
COICOP 11 Restaurants and hotels |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+3.5 |
+4.6 |
+3.2 |
+2.8 |
+2.5 |
+2.6p |
|
be Belgium |
+2.4 |
+4.4 |
+3.2 |
+2.6 |
+2.8 |
+1.8 |
|
de Germany |
+1.9 |
+3.7 |
+0.8 |
+0.7 |
+1.0 |
+1.3 |
|
gr Greece |
+5.2 |
+6.7 |
+4.8 |
+4.3 |
+3.1 |
+2.5 |
|
es Spain |
+4.4 |
+5.5 |
+4.3 |
+4.1 |
+4.2 |
+4.5 |
|
fr France |
+2.5 |
+3.9 |
+2.6 |
+2.8 |
+2.5 |
+2.2 |
|
ie Ireland |
+5.9 |
+7.1 |
+6.3 |
+4.0 |
+3.3 |
+4.1 |
|
it Italy |
+4.0 |
+4.5 |
+4.0 |
+3.0 |
+2.5 |
+2.7p |
|
lu Luxembourg |
+3.1 |
+4.2 |
+3.3 |
+3.2 |
+3.5 |
+2.8 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+6.1 |
+6.9 |
+1.9 |
+2.0 |
+1.8 |
+2.1p |
|
at Austria |
+2.6 |
+2.8 |
+2.7 |
+2.5 |
+2.4 |
+1.9p |
|
pt Portugal |
+4.4 |
+5.6 |
+5.1 |
+5.0 |
+1.4 |
+2.3 |
|
fi Finland |
+2.5 |
+3.3 |
+2.9 |
+1.0 |
+1.8 |
+2.3 |
|
COICOP 12 Miscellaneous goods and services |
||||||
|
eurozone12 Euro area |
+3.1 |
+2.9 |
+2.6 |
+2.2 |
+1.8 |
+2.3p |
|
be Belgium |
+2.5 |
+2.7 |
+2.5 |
+2.4 |
+2.1 |
+2.6 |
|
de Germany |
+3.1 |
+2.0 |
+1.7 |
+1.4 |
+1.0 |
+1.0 |
|
gr Greece |
+3.4 |
+2.9 |
+2.3 |
+2.0 |
+3.1 |
+3.2 |
|
es Spain |
+2.8 |
+3.6 |
+3.1 |
+2.7 |
+2.8 |
+4.2 |
|
fr France |
+2.5 |
+2.7 |
+2.5 |
+2.2 |
+1.5 |
+2.9 |
|
ie Ireland |
+6.5 |
+7.6 |
+5.2 |
+2.2 |
+1.9 |
+3.0 |
|
it Italy |
+3.7 |
+3.8 |
+3.5 |
+2.8 |
+2.6 |
+2.9p |
|
lu Luxembourg (Grand-Duché) |
+3.9 |
+2.5 |
+2.2 |
+2.0 |
+1.8 |
+2.7 |
|
nl Netherlands |
+4.5 |
+4.5 |
+3.7 |
+2.6 |
+2.2 |
+0.5p |
|
at Austria |
+2.6 |
+3.1 |
+1.9 |
+2.6 |
+2.5 |
+2.6p |
|
pt Portugal |
+5.4 |
+5.4 |
+4.0 |
+2.6 |
+2.1 |
+4.0 |
|
fi Finland |
+3.4 |
+2.2 |
+2.1 |
+2.5 |
+1.3 |
+2.7 |
p Provisional.
188 Mr. Sargent asked the Taoiseach if he will be meeting European Parliament President Mr. Josep Borrell MEP when he visits Ireland later in November 2006. [38508/06]
I will have a meeting with Mr. Josep Borrell Fontelles, President of the European Parliament, on the morning of 30 November, 2006, in advance of his address to the National Forum on Europe.
189 Mr. Morgan asked the Taoiseach the number of the two million people employed here who are receiving a wage of less than €10 per hour; and the number of these who are receiving a wage of €7.65 per hour. [38543/06]
The latest results in relation to the distribution of earnings are from the 2003 National Employment Survey. The results refer to a total of 1,440,400 employees out of 1,793,400 persons at work in March 2003. The survey does not measure self-employed earnings and it does not include the agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors. The average earnings per hour was €16.41 for all employees. The results for March 2003 show that 28.4% of all employees earned less than €10 per hour and 12.1% of all employees earned less than €7.65 per hour. The minimum wage for experienced adult workers in March 2003 was €6.35 per hour and the survey indicated that 3.8% of all employees earned less than this amount. The National Employment Survey (NES) is being undertaken on an annual basis from 2006 onwards and the Central Statistics Office (CSO) is planning to publish the results of the March 2006 survey in the middle of next year, 2007.
190 Mr. Morgan asked the Taoiseach the total costs, including administrative costs, costs of publishing reports and travel costs, associated with the All Party Committee on the Constitution since June 2002. [38617/06]
The total costs, including administrative costs, costs of publishing reports and travel costs, associated with the All Party Committee on the Constitution since June 2002 are as follows:
|
€ |
|
|
June-December 2002 |
|
|
Total expenditure for the period |
109,686.91 |
|
Travel |
0 |
|
Total administration costs |
109,687 |
|
Breakdown of administration costs |
|
|
Pay |
65,152.00 |
|
accommodation, office supplies, IT, etc |
44,534.91 |
|
Committee published its Seventh Progress Report: Parliament earlier in the year — costs came to €37,550.65 |
|
|
2003 |
|
|
Grant in Aid — €331,000 |
|
|
Actual expenditure for 2003 — €301,680 |
|
|
Breakdown |
|
|
Travel |
39,304.77 |
|
Reports (Eighth Progress Report: Government and reprinting Report of the Constitution Review Group) |
40,508.93 |
|
Expenses paid to committee members |
19,140.34 |
|
Administration costs |
202,725.96 |
|
Breakdown of administration costs |
|
|
Pay |
100,788.51 |
|
Accommodation, light/heat, IT, office supplies etc. |
101,937.45 |
|
2004 |
|
|
Grant in Aid — €380,000 |
|
|
Actual expenditure for 2004 — €325,880.54 |
|
|
Breakdown |
|
|
Travel |
10,543.09 |
|
Reports: Ninth Progress Report: Private Property |
81,475.96 |
|
Expenses paid to committee members |
6,599.27 |
|
Administration costs |
227,262.22 |
|
Breakdown of administration costs |
|
|
Pay |
150,269.48 |
|
Note: €19,032.40 of pay costs attributable to 2003 |
|
|
Accommodation, light/heat, IT, office supplies etc. |
76,992.74 |
|
2005 |
|
|
Grant in Aid — €399,000 |
|
|
Actual expenditure for 2005 — €338,639.38 |
|
|
Breakdown |
|
|
Travel |
0 |
|
Reports Tenth Progress Report: The Family |
71,251.97 |
|
Expenses paid to committee members |
0 |
|
Administration costs |
267,387.41 |
|
Breakdown of administration costs |
|
|
Pay |
125,720.78 |
|
Accommodation, light/heat, IT, office supplies etc. |
141,666.63 |
|
2006 |
|
|
Grant in Aid — €407,000 |
|
|
Actual expenditure to 17 November 2006 — €237,831.71 |
|
|
Breakdown |
|
|
Travel |
26,262.26 |
|
Reports: Tenth and Eleventh Progress Reports |
24,172.12 |
|
Note: €23,873.62 relates to the Tenth Progress Report: The Family |
|
|
€298.50 relates to the present study (Eleventh Progress Report: Freedom of Expression, Association and Assembly) |
|
|
Administration costs |
187,397.33 |
|
Breakdown of administration costs |
|
|
Pay |
116,780.61 |
|
Accommodation, light/heat, IT, office supplies etc. |
70,616.93 |
|
Petty Cash |
191 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some Garda speed checkpoints appear to be concentrated at soft target areas which are located at the interface of two different speed limit levels; if he will address this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38512/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that Garda enforcement under road traffic legislation is not concentrated at perceived soft target areas but in a fair and balanced manner. The Garda IT system underpinning the Fixed Charge Processing System (FCPS) rolled out nationally for speeding offences on 2 February 2006. The following tables set out the number of fixed charge notices issued for speeding offences in the 50, 60, 80 and 100km/h speed zones for the period 2 February 2006 to 30 September 2006 by speed range:
|
Speed Range |
Number of Notices |
|
51km/h-60km/h |
98 |
|
61km/h-70km/h |
9,700 |
|
In excess 70km/h |
29,741 |
|
Total |
39,539 |
|
Speed Range |
Number of Notices |
|
61km/h-70km/h |
86 |
|
71km/h-80km/h |
9,024 |
|
In excess 80km/h |
29,630 |
|
Total |
38,740 |
|
Speed Range |
Number of Notices |
|
81km/h-90km/h |
101 |
|
91km/h-100km/h |
8,856 |
|
In excess 100km/h |
14,274 |
|
Total |
23,231 |
|
Speed Range |
Number of Notices |
|
100km/h-110km/h |
325 |
|
111km/h-120km/h |
3,906 |
|
in excess 120km/h |
22,840 |
|
Total |
27,071 |
Statistics are provisional/operational and liable to change.
192 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the land registry offices in Roscommon Town will be available for occupation; when staff based in Dublin will be decentralised to the town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38725/06]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that a site for the permanent decentralised offices for the Property Registration Authority's Roscommon office has been identified. The matter is now being progressed by the Office of Public Works and it is anticipated that the accommodation will be ready for occupation in 2009. The Property Registration Authority has carried out an advance move to Roscommon and currently has thirty-three staff working in the town. I understand that, subject to operational requirements, it is intended to transfer around ten additional Dublin based staff to Roscommon in early 2007.
193 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the measures being taken to allay people’s fears that terrorist attacks at Irish international airports are a real threat following the revelations on the BBC that a Muslim cleric has been exhorting attacks on an airport here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38995/06]
Aviation security arrangements at Irish airports are kept under continuous review by both the Department of Transport and the National Civil Aviation Security Committee (NCASC). The NCASC is chaired by the Department of Transport, and both my Department and the Garda Síochána are represented on it, together with a range of other key stakeholders. I understand that the Department of Transport conducts regular security inspections and tests of aviation facilities and all operators at Irish airports. These facilities and operators are also subject to audit by the European Union, European Civil Aviation Conference and International Civil Aviation Organisation, in partnership with the Department of Transport. In addition to these site-specific measures, the Garda Síochána maintains an up-to-date assessment of the threat to this State from international terrorist groups through analysis of intelligence gathered from domestic and international sources. Moreover, the Garda Síochána has developed excellent lines of communication and co-operation with security and intelligence services in the European Union and further afield. This ongoing sharing of intelligence enables a rapid operational response to be put in place where circumstances so warrant. It is not the practice and it would be contrary to the public interest to comment on specific alleged threats or measures taken in response to ongoing security issues.
194 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the budget of €5.1million for the Garda closed circuit television programme has been allocated for 2006; if so, the breakdown of this expenditure in relation to the projects that were allocated funding; the amount allocated to each project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38499/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the E4 subhead of the Garda Síochána Vote covers expenditure on new Garda CCTV installations, the maintenance of existing Garda CCTV systems and the allocation of grant aid funding for the Community Based CCTV Scheme, which is being administered on behalf of my Department by Pobal. The Community Based CCTV Scheme, which I launched in June 2005, offered two levels of support to meet the requirements of local communities. Stage 1 offered pre-development supports and funding of up to €5,000 for organisations/groups who were not yet ready to develop their proposals fully. Some 24 successful groups received Stage 1 grants totalling €115,665 earlier this year. Stage 2 offered a direct Application Process to organisations who could demonstrate an ability to develop and deliver a CCTV Programme immediately. Some 13 successful groups have been approved to receive Stage 2 grants totalling €1 million to be matched, in RAPID areas, by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
On 13 October 2006, the Garda authorities published a request for tender, with a closing date of 22 November, for the installation of three Garda CCTV Systems in Ballyfermot, Clondalkin and Tullamore, at an estimated cost of €1.3 million. These systems will use wireless CCTV technology which will allow CCTV cameras to be redeployed as necessary to meet changing policing requirements. Contractors will be required to complete the deployment of these CCTV systems before the end of March 2007. Further such projects are under consideration as part of the process of outsourcing Garda CCTV systems. Maintenance costs of €308,000 associated with existing systems have also been incurred to date. Given, in particular, the complex and lengthy work required for the peer review process with the Department of Finance on the outsourcing of Garda CCTV systems and the implementation of Joint Policing Committees which are necessary to approve community CCTV schemes, there will be an underspend in this subhead in 2006. The recently published Estimates for 2007 contain an increased provision for CCTV to meet a range of developments which will incur costs in 2007.
195 Mr. Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the status of the visa applications for persons (details supplied). [38500/06]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the visa applications in question were approved on 9th November, 2006.
196 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department received a request for funding on behalf of the Irish Missing Persons’ Helpline; if such funding was provided and the amount of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38546/06]
221 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a request for funding was made to his Department by the Irish Missing Persons Helpline; if it was successful; the amount of grant aid provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38693/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 196 and 221 together.
Funding of €110,000 in respect of a National Missing Persons Helpline, made available by my Department in 2002 and 2003, was channelled through the Victim Support organisation and was in addition to the ongoing funding that the organisation received for the provision of services to victims of crime. This funding of €110,000 was provided subject to the conditions that no funding beyond the year 2003 should be implied, and audited accounts should be provided to my Department on a calendar year basis. To date no audited accounts have been received in my Department. At the end of 2003, and as a matter of good practice in the handling of public money, my Department commissioned a review of the Helpline from the Department of Social Sciences, Dublin Institute of Technology, which recorded the number of phone calls to the Helpline up to that time as being in the region of 100. In March 2005, I decided that continued funding of the Victim Support organisation could no longer be justified due to serious concerns in relation to governance, accountability for public funds and poor service levels, after a lengthy period of instability within the organisation. I understand that Victim Support closed down its headquarters operation during 2005 and that a number of staff were made redundant, including the person employed to operate the Missing Persons Helpline. My Department had no role in the decision of Victim Support to make a number of its staff redundant, other than to insist that statutory requirements (notice, holiday pay, etc.) be met and that the interests of the staff be protected.
In March 2005, I established a new Commission for the Support of Victims of Crime to devise an appropriate support framework for victims of crime into the future and to disburse funding for victim support measures. The Commission is entirely independent in its decision making and examines each application on its merits. The Commission received an application from the Missing in Ireland Support Service for €71,600 to establish, staff and operate a Helpline for missing persons. After careful consideration of the application the Commission decided to offer funding of €25,000. However, this offer was rejected by the Missing in Ireland Support Service. It should be borne in mind in this context that the Commission is charged with funding support services for victims of crime, and that, while some persons who are missing are crime victims, most are not.
The Garda Síochána continuously monitors international developments in relation to missing persons in order to ensure that best practice is followed. If its professional judgement is that some change in the existing legislation, protocols or structures would be of assistance in improving investigations, this would be considered by me. I am of the view that a Helpline for this purpose is best set up on an independent basis and by a non-official, voluntary organisation. A proposal for funding has been received in my Department from the Missing In Ireland Support Service to establish a national missing persons helpline. The proposal is currently being examined with the assistance of An Garda Síochána.
197 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a pending family reunification application for a person (details supplied) will be decided on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38547/06]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the application in question was approved on 17th November, 2006.
198 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied with the way in which the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 was handled; and if it raises questions requiring reform to the legal codes or operational procedures of the Gardaí. [38558/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the incident referred to was investigated by the Garda Síochána in the area concerned in accordance with Garda operational procedures. I am further informed that a person who went voluntarily to the Garda Síochána was interviewed in relation to the incident and made a statement admitting the incident. An investigation file was submitted to the Director of the National Juvenile Office. The person was subsequently dealt with under the Juvenile Diversion Programme. Part 4 of the Children Act 2001, which came into effect in May 2002, places the Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme on a statutory basis. The programme provides that, in certain circumstances, a juvenile under 18 years of age who freely accepts responsibility for a criminal incident may be cautioned as an alternative to prosecution.
199 Mr. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision on an application by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 for residency will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38561/06]
I understand that the Immigration Division of my Department has recently written to the legal representative of the person concerned informing them that residence has been approved in respect of their client.
200 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person can apply to become a peace commissioner; the criteria required for same; the process involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38573/06]
Peace Commissioners are appointed under section 88 of the Courts of Justice Act, 1924. The Office of Peace Commissioner is an honorary appointment and Peace Commissioners receive no remuneration or compensation by way of fees or expenses for their services. An application for appointment may be submitted by a person who is interested in obtaining an appointment or a third party may submit a nomination in respect of a person considered suitable for appointment. Nominations are generally received from public representatives. A local Garda Superintendent sometimes requests an appointment in a particular area in the public interest.
There is no qualifying examination involved but appointees are required to be of good character and they are usually well established in the local community. Persons who are members of professions or employed in occupations which engage in legal work or related activities and members of the clergy are, as a matter of practice, not appointed because of their occupation and civil servants are usually only appointed where the performance of their official duties requires an appointment (i.e. ex-officio). Persons convicted of serious offences are considered unsuitable for appointment.
The fact that an applicant or nominee may be suitable for appointment does not in itself provide any entitlement to appointment because appointments are made at the discretion of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and having regard to the needs of particular areas.
201 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the holiday visa granted to a person (details supplied) can be altered to enable them to travel to Ireland on 1 January 2007 rather than on 24 November 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38574/06]
The person in question is advised to submit a fresh visa application setting out the new travel dates. If necessary the current visa will be ‘cancelled without prejudice' and a new visa issued. In exceptional circumstances the administration fee may be waived.
202 Mr. Connolly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of staff in his Department who have indicated willingness to decentralise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38597/06]
Six hundred and ninety officers in my Department have applied to the Central Applications Facility to decentralise under the Government Programme.
203 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the issues raised in correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38601/06]
Under Section 29 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2006 I may, by statutory instrument and in the interests of public safety and security, declare specific firearms and ammunition as "restricted", by reference to their category, calibre, working mechanism, muzzle energy and description. It should be noted that where a firearm is deemed "restricted" it does not mean that the possession or sale of such firearms is prohibited. Where a person wishes to possess such a firearm they will be required to make an application to the Garda Commissioner for the grant of a firearms certificate and satisfy the Commissioner that they comply with the conditions set out in Section 4 of the Firearms Act, 1925, as amended by the 2006 Act. In addition firearms dealers will be required to seek an authorisation from me for the importation for sale of such firearms.
My Department is currently in consultation with the Garda Síochána, organisations representing different shooting interest groups and firearms dealers representatives regarding the drafting of the statutory instrument and due consideration will be given to any observations which interested persons or groups may wish to make.
204 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [38602/06]
An application for long term residency from the person referred to by the Deputy was received on the 16th June 2006.
The position in relation to granting long term residency is as follows: Persons who have been legally resident in the State for over five years on the basis of work permit/work authorisation/work visa conditions may apply to the Immigration Division of my Department for a five year residency extension. In that context they may also apply to be exempt from employment permit requirements. The dependants of the aforementioned, who have been legally resident in the State for over five years may also apply for long term residency. This particular long term permission does not exempt the person from employment permit requirements. Time spent in the State on student conditions cannot be counted towards long term residency.
While applications for long term residency are under consideration, the person concerned should ensure that their permission to remain in the State is kept up to date. I understand that applications received in May 2006 are currently being dealt with. As soon as a decision is made on the case, the person concerned will be notified.
205 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the date on which An Garda Síochána submitted a file to the office of the State Solicitor in County Mayo in respect of a traffic accident which occurred on 14 October 2004 (details supplied). [38631/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the road traffic collision referred to involved a motorcycle with a driver and pillion passenger and a car. The driver of the motorcycle was seriously injured and was brought to Mayo General Hospital. He was later transferred to Beaumont Hospital where he died on 26 October 2004. The pillion passenger received less serious injuries, and the driver of the car was uninjured.
I am also informed that an investigation file was prepared for the Law Officers and a prosecution was directed against the driver of the car who was convicted before Westport District Court on 19 May 2005 of driving while unaccompanied and was fined €150. I am further informed that a Chief Superintendent has been appointed under the Garda Síochána (Discipline) Regulations 1989 to investigate all aspects pertaining to the investigation of this fatal collision.
As this inquiry is on-going the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to comment any further on the matter at this time.
206 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application for a visa by a person (details supplied) in County Carlow has been received by his Department; and when he expects a decision on same. [38639/06]
The application referred to by the Deputy was received in the Dublin Visa Office on 8th November, 2006. A decision in respect of the application will be made in the coming weeks.
207 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the failure of the Gardaí and his Department to enforce the law and close down the 12 gambling casinos in the Dublin area will shortly result in the introduction of illegal roulette slot machines being introduced into betting premises here starting in December 2006; the steps he will take to prevent the installation of illegal roulette slot machines into betting shops; if he will take steps to ensure that the law will be enforced against such attempts to operate illegal roulette slot machines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38643/06]
208 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the 12 gambling casinos operating in contravention of the law in the Dublin area are not closed immediately pending the deliberations of the special working group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38644/06]
209 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has taken steps to prevent 12 gambling casinos in the Dublin area from continuing to break the law here. [38645/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 207 to 209, inclusive, together.
I have been informed by the Gardaí that they are aware of a number of gambling casinos in the Dublin area as indicated by the Deputy. These private clubs are visited by the Gardaí Síochána on a regular basis and no irregularities have been detected to date that would justify a prosecution under the Gaming & Lotteries Acts 1956-86, which is the relevant legislation for such matters. I am assured that the premises will continue to receive Garda attention and if breaches of the legislation are detected the directions of the DPP will be sought.
As the Deputy is aware, I have established an inter-departmental committee chaired by Mr Michael McGrath BL to report on the possibilities for a legislative basis for the strict regulation of casino-style operations in the State, the composition of any proposed Casino Regulation Commission and related matters. I expect to receive the Casino Committee's report in the near future. The Deputy will understand 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 Committee.
I am aware of some proposals to introduce casino type activities such as fixed odds betting terminals (FOBTs) in betting shops. On a personal level I am opposed to the introduction of such activities into the betting shop environment, however, as outlined above I am awaiting the report of the Casino Committee before commenting on future policy.
210 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí working in community policing in the Tallaght Garda station in each year over the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38653/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) 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 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 the personnel strength (all ranks) of Tallaght Garda Station as at 31 December, 1997 and 30 October, 2006 was 133 and 173, respectively, representing an increase of 40 (or 30%) in the number of Garda personnel allocated to Tallaght Garda Station during that period. I have also been informed that the personnel strength (all ranks) of the Community Policing Unit at Tallaght Garda Station as at 31 December, 2001-2005, inclusively, and as at 17 November, 2006 was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Date |
Strength |
|
31/12/2001 |
20 |
|
31/12/2002 |
22 |
|
31/12/2003 |
24 |
|
31/12/2004 |
24 |
|
31/12/2005 |
20 |
|
17/11/2006 |
23 |
I should add that 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.
211 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí during 2005 and 2006 who have transferred out of a station (details supplied) in order to join a specialist unit within the metropolitan area or within the Gardaí generally; if, in each case, the Garda lost to the station in question was subsequently replaced by a new member of An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38654/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) 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 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 the personnel strength (all ranks) of the Garda Station in question as at 31 December, 1997 and 30 October, 2006 was 133 and 173, respectively, representing an increase of 40 (or 30%) in the number of Garda personnel allocated to the Garda Station during that period. I have also been informed that the number of Gardaí (Garda rank) who were transferred from the Garda Station in question in 2005 and to date in 2006 was 21 and 10, respectively.
Garda management advise that of the 21 Gardaí transferred from the Garda Station in 2005: 8 Gardaí were successful in competitions to join Specialist Units and were subsequently transferred to Specialist Units in November, 2005; 1 Garda was transferred to the Garda College, Templemore, and the remaining 12 Gardaí were transferred from the Station following requests from the members concerned. Garda management further advise that of the 10 Gardaí transferred from the Garda Station to-date in 2006: 3 Gardaí transferred to Specialist Units; 4 Gardaí transferred Inter-Divisional at their own request, and the remaining 3 Gardaí transferred to Garda stations within the Dublin Metropolitan Region South Division.
Garda management state that, in 2005, 19 Probationer Gardaí were allocated directly from the Garda College to the Garda Station in question and 1 Garda transferred into the Station. To-date in 2006, 26 Probationer Gardaí have been allocated directly from the Garda College to Tallaght Garda Station and 1 Garda has transferred into the Station.
I should add that 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.
212 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of probationary Gardaí who were allocated from the Garda college to a station (details supplied) in each year since 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38655/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) 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 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 nineteen (19) Probationer Gardaí were allocated directly from the Garda College to the Garda Station in question on first allocation in 2005 and a total of twenty six (26) Probationer Gardaí have been allocated directly from the Garda College to the Garda Station to date this year. Garda management state that the information requested in relation to the number of Probationer Gardaí who were allocated from the Garda College to the Garda Station in question from 2000 to 2004 is not readily available and can only be obtained by a disproportionate expenditure of Garda time and resources.
I should add that 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.
213 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he is taking to reform family law to ensure equality for all parties in the family law process. [38667/06]
The Constitution requires that people who appear before our Courts in essentially the same circumstances should be dealt with in essentially the same manner. It follows that in the exercise of its judicial functions under various enactments, including those on family law, it is already the duty of the Courts to see that this principle of equality is observed. The Judicial Council Bill that I am proposing is designed to establish a Judicial Council which will have among its functions the preparation of a judicial code of ethics. No doubt the proposed Council will take the opportunity when exercising that function to re-enforce the application of the principle of equality.
214 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will substantially increase the resources available to the Legal Aid Board in view of the fact that individuals are currently waiting for periods of between three to six months for legal aid services. [38668/06]
I am pleased to be able to advise the Deputy that the Legal Aid Board is currently providing legal services to all eligible persons within a maximum period of four months nationwide. In fact, at most of the Board's Law Centres the waiting time for an appointment for a solicitor was two months or less at the end of October 2006. The Deputy may also wish to note that the Board provides a priority service to persons seeking legal services for cases involving domestic violence, child care, child abduction and for certain other matters where there are statutory time limits. These cases are dealt with immediately and without going on a waiting list.
215 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if training will be made available to the Gardaí to specifically address the problem of domestic violence against men. [38669/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that an appropriate training is delivered to Garda trainees on Phases I and III under the auspices of the Legal and Policing Section. I am further informed that this training covers matters relevant to Barring/ Protection/ Safety Orders, arrest powers, procedures to follow, advice to be given, and bail issues. The training involves study of relevant legislation, including the Domestic Violence Act, 1996, the Children Act, 1908 and related matters, and the Child care Act, 1991 including the duties of the Health Boards and Courts in matters of child care.
Garda management state that no differentiation is made in the training courses between male and female victims of domestic violence. I am also informed that Domestic Violence training is also provided by the Social Studies Section on Phases I and III, following which Student Gardaí are fully briefed on all aspects of the law in relation to Domestic Violence. During experiential learning phases, Student Gardaí would also be exposed to dealing with real cases of domestic violence under the supervision of tutors.
Furthermore, while on Phase III, the organisation Women's Aid attend the Garda College, Templemore and spend 4 hours with each class of 24 students educating them on issues of domestic violence. Women's Aid deals with both violence against women and against men. This is put into practice by way of role play situations which assess the students ability to deal with domestic violence situations both lawfully and professionally.
Garda management further state that the issue of training for the general membership of An Garda Síochána is being researched for inclusion on the Continuous Professional Development Core Programme for 2007.
216 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in the interests of accountability, he will introduce an ombudsman to regulate the law industry. [38670/06]
The Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2006 that is before the House provides for the establishment of a Legal Services Ombudsman who will oversee the handling by the Law Society and Bar Council of three types of complaint against solicitors and barristers, namely inadequate services, excessive fees and misconduct. The key function will be to provide a form of appeal for clients of solicitors and barristers who are dissatisfied with the outcome of a complaint made to the Law Society or Bar Council.
The Ombudsman will also have a more general oversight role for those complaints procedures by examining a selection of complaints files each year taken on a random basis. Access to the legal profession will also be monitored by the Ombudsman who will report to the Minister and the Oireachtas on the adequacy of numbers admitted annually to each profession. I am satisfied that the introduction of the Legal Services Ombudsman, as a layer of oversight additional to the present self-regulating mechanisms operated by the Law Society and the Bar Council, will provide the necessary independent scrutiny to assure the public of the effectiveness and trustworthiness of the complaints process as a whole.
217 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an invitation was extended to a person (details supplied) at a meeting in January 2006 to meet with him; and when such a meeting will take place. [38671/06]
No invitation to meet with me was extended to the person in question.
218 Mr. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department has received documentation from the authorities in Ecuador regarding its wish to operate the Strasbourg Agreement as a mechanism to facilitate the repatriation of prisoners. [38677/06]
My Department has received no documentation to date from authorities in Ecuador on this matter.
219 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will take into account humanitarian consideration and letters from a psychiatrist in relation to an application for a person (details supplied) in County Meath in their application for asylum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38680/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted.
As I have been advised that judicial review proceedings have been taken in this case, it would be inappropriate to comment at this time.
220 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for refugee status by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 if neither his Department nor the Refugee Appeals’ Council are able to locate their file; if he will endeavour to locate this file or at least establish its whereabouts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38692/06]
The person concerned, a Ukrainian national, applied for asylum on 27 May, 2003. His application was refused by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner on 23 August, 2004. He did not appeal this decision.
In accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, the person concerned was informed on 14 October, 2004 that the Minister was proposing to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was, in accordance with the Act, given the option of making representations within 15 working days setting out the reasons why he should not be deported i.e. be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before the deportation order was made; or consenting to the making of the deportation order. Representations have been received from the person concerned requesting leave to remain in the State on the basis of his marriage to a Kazakhstan national who has leave to remain based on her parentage of a child born in the State before 1 January, 2005.
The case file of this person is currently with the Repatriation Unit of my Department for examination for deportation. I expect the file to be submitted to me for decision in due course. This decision will be taken having regard to considerations specified in section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended. These considerations include matters relating to the common good, the person's family and domestic circumstances, as well as humanitarian considerations. Consideration will also be given to the prohibition of refoulement which is contained in section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 as amended.
222 Mr. Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the status of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin who is a non-EU national and was granted a visa on the basis that they are a temporary registered doctor and the parent of an Irish born child but did not receive the stamp of IBC status is automatically superseded by the fact that they are the parent of an Irish born child; and if same has a bearing on their spouse’s visa application. [38699/06]
The application referred to by the Deputy was received in the Dublin Visa Office on 23rd August, 2006. The decision of the Visa Officer to refuse the application was taken on 9th October, 2006.
An appeal against the initial refusal decision was received on 17th November, 2006. Following a re-examination of the application, the decision to refuse was overturned. Accordingly, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the visa application was approved on 17th November, 2006.
223 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the persons who fund the operation of The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal. [38705/06]
The Law Society funds the operation of the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal.
224 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of An Garda Síochána who are driving official cars and only have the chief superintendent’s permission to do so. [38706/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that members of the Garda Síochána are allowed to drive official vehicles in two circumstances: (a) where they hold at least a class B driving licence and have been authorised to drive by the Chief Superintendent; or (b) where they have completed an official driving course.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the number of Gardaí who are driving Garda cars where they hold at least a class B Driving licence and have been authorised to drive by the Chief Superintendent, in each region, as at the 17 November 2006 was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Region |
Number |
|
D.M.R |
921 |
|
South Eastern |
218 |
|
Eastern |
317 |
|
Northern |
275 |
|
Western |
143 |
|
Southern |
407 |
|
Total |
2,281 |
Garda management states that the staffing levels of the Garda Driving and Training school are currently being examined with a view to reducing the number of personnel driving on Chief's Permission.
225 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 204 and 207 of 14 November 2006, the location of each station in question; and if, in each case, the living quarters are habitable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38724/06]
The detailed information sought by the Deputy is being compiled by the Garda authorities and I will communicate with him shortly.
226 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of meetings officials from his Department have had with officials of Fingal County Council with regard to the relocation of a prison complex at Thornton Hall, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38734/06]
A total of 5 meetings have been held to date between officials of the Prison Service and officials of Fingal County Council. In addition to the above, however, consultants appointed by the Prison Service have held in excess of 15 meetings with officials of Fingal County Council in relation to the servicing of the Thornton Hall Site.
227 Mr. Cuffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of kilometres covered by each Government Minister’s car; the amount and type of fuel used and the make of car, for the last year for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38908/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that Ministerial State cars are placed at the disposal of Government Ministers pursuant to a long standing arrangement and that up to 30th September 2006 the make of car and the Kilometres covered by each Government Minister is as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Name |
Make or Car |
Date allocated |
Kilometres |
|
Ahern B. |
Merc S320 |
01/03/2006 |
29,280 |
|
Harney M. |
Volvo S80 |
05/11/2002 |
218,240 |
|
O’Donoghue J. |
Lexus 450H |
01/06/2006 |
16,640 |
|
Roche D. |
Lexus 450H |
01/06/2006 |
26,880 |
|
Martin M. |
Volvo S80 |
12/11/2005 |
182,400 |
|
Dempsey N. |
Merc E240 |
31/12/2003 |
210,960 |
|
O’Dea W. |
Lexus GS300 |
01/12/2005 |
62,720 |
|
Hanafin M. |
Merc E240 |
21/04/2005 |
118,560 |
|
Ó Cuív E. |
Volvo 2.5T |
02/09/2005 |
292,800 |
|
Ahern D. |
Lexus GS300 |
01/12/2005 |
106,400 |
|
Cullen M. |
Merc E240 |
March 2004 |
154,400 |
|
Cowen B. |
Merc E240 |
07/04/2005 |
143,200 |
|
McDowell M. |
Merc E240 |
Sept. 2004 |
91,520 |
|
Brennan S. |
Merc E240 |
March 2004 |
163,712 |
|
Coughlan M. |
Merc E240 |
30/03/2005 |
193,600 |
Factors such as fuel efficiency and safety are taken into account in making purchases for the Ministerial Fleet. I have been further informed that all cars in the Ministerial Fleet are petrol driven models (with the Lexus GS 450H vehicles powered by petrol and electricity).
228 Mr. Allen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans for the future of the Garda station at Watercourse Road, Blackpool, County Cork. [38941/06]
I have requested a report from the Garda authorities on the issue referred to by the Deputy and I will communicate with him shortly.
229 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will not deport a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will work with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment on this case. [38952/06]
By way of background to the case I would refer the Deputy to the Replies I gave to Questions Nos. 582 and 599 on Tuesday 4 July 2006 and No. 613 of Thursday 6 July 2006. The current position with regard to the person in question and her three children is that the consent deportation orders issued in respect of them and which were signed by me on 9 June 2006 have expired and are no longer enforceable. In view of this, a fresh notice of intention to deport letter in respect of the persons concerned is currently under consideration by the Immigration Division of my Department.
230 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason neighbourhood watch brochures are no longer available for distribution within participating estates in north County Dublin; if he will confirm that one of the sponsors has withdrawn his financial support; if he will confirm that to date his Department has failed to come up with necessary funding for the brochures; and if he will arrange to have this matter resolved. [38983/06]
Neighbourhood Watch was established in 1985 as a crime prevention measure for urban areas. There are approximately 2,600 Neighbourhood Watch schemes in operation throughout the country. Since its establishment, the Garda authorities have sought to encourage the active participation of the public in Neighbourhood Watch by encouraging and supporting communities to establish and maintain such initiatives. An Garda Síochána has been a strategic partner in driving and supporting Neighbourhood Watch through its Community Relations Section and local Garda management and has deployed Crime Prevention Officers and Liaison Gardaí to assist schemes.
The Garda authorities are finalising a high level review of Neighbourhood Watch which involved consultation with all the relevant stakeholders. The new strategy will provide a blueprint for the future development of Neighbourhood Watch.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that Garda Community Relations Section arranged and funded the printing of the Neighbourhood Watch brochure which is now out of print. The Garda authorities will produce a new Neighbourhood Watch booklet for distribution when the review has been finalised and in that context the question of funding will be addressed.
231 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there is a discriminatory distinction regarding exemptions from PRSI contributions in respect of contributions made for pension provisions between workers who are on PAYE and those who are self employed; the basis for this discrimination; and his plans for dealing with same. [38984/06]
The matters raised by the Deputy are appropriate to the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Social & Family Affairs.
232 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide a list of those matters not related to imprisonment for which prisoners will be required to pay for escort services outside the prison under Section 37 of the Prisons Bill 2006; the number of escorts that fell into this category each year in 2004, 2005, and 2006 to date; and the related costs of these escorts for each of those years. [38997/06]
233 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide a list of the those electronic devices for which prisoners will be required to pay for access to under Section 37 of the Prisons Bill 2006; and the related costs of providing access to these devices to prisoners each year in 2004, 2005, and 2006 to date. [38998/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 232 and 233 together.
Section 37 of the Prisons Bill 2006 allows the Minister to provide for charges to be made to prisoners for goods or services that are not generally available to prisoners or are not available on an unlimited basis. This would include telephone calls, access to electronic devices, private medical treatment or escorts provided outside the prison for matters not related to their imprisonment. This section will provide a statutory basis for provisions in the Draft Prison Rules (a copy of which is available on my Department's website at www.justice.ie) which allow a Prison Governor to charge for the provision of certain services over and above the standard provision to all prisoners, such as use of the videolink, telephone calls and access to materials relating to current affairs (e.g. newspapers, magazines etc.).
Access to many of these services are currently provided without charge and it is not intended to begin charging for all of these services. For example no charge is currently made for the making of a certain amount of phone calls. Prisoners are currently entitled to a daily phone call including calls to their legal advisor, and this will continue to be the position.
Prisoners are provided with access to Healthcare services on an equivalent basis to citizens in the general community who are covered by the GMS (Medical Card) service. Section 37 of the Prisons Bill 2006 allows for the Prison Rules to provide, where it is deemed necessary (on the basis of non-convicted status) to facilitate a prisoner with access to elective health care outside the public system, that the prisoner will be responsible for the costs associated with facilitating such provision. Provision of necessary healthcare to all prisoners on an equivalent basis to that provided under the public health system will continue to be funded by the State.
In addition to the escorts costs that would arise in the facilitation of access to elective healthcare outside the public system, inmates are charged for escorts outside of their place of detention in relation to civil proceedings against third parties. It is not proposed to charge for escorts where the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform or an individual governor is listed as a defendant or co-defendant in such proceedings. It is also not proposed to charge prisoners for appointments relating to any matters before the Residential Institutions Redress Board.
In 2004 there were 29 escorts relating to civil proceedings amounting to €19,247.78. In 2005, there were 21 such escorts amounting to €8,730.11 and in 2006 to date there were 16 escorts amounting to €5,228.53.
The overall purpose of this Section is to future-proof the legislative underpinning of such charges which may become necessary to allow the provision of further services to prisoners, or to provide for currently unforeseen services to prisoners in the future. It would be unfortunate if the lack of a legislative provision would serve to hamper the use of emerging technologies to improve the lot of prisoners. For that reason it is not possible to give a definitively comprehensive list of services or items which may be covered by it.
234 Mr. Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of motorists that have been penalised for travelling at speeds between 80kph and 100kph on the stretch of the R132 from south of Kilsaran to Moremount in County Louth during each of the months from January 2006 to November 2006, with a breakdown for each month of the number of the penalties which have been reversed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39022/06]
I have requested from the Garda Síochána the information requested, and I will contact the Deputy again when a response is received.
235 Mr. Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the report published by the ESRI entitled Migrant’s Experience of Racism and Discrimination and its findings that insults or other forms of harassment at work are the second most common form of discrimination against immigrants with 32% of work permit holders across all groups having reported it; and his plans to address this problem. [39023/06]
The Employment Equality Act 1998 as amended by the Equality Act 2004 places an obligation on all employers in Ireland to prevent harassment in the workplace. The administration of this legislation is a matter for my Department and, more particularly, the Equality Authority. Persons who consider themselves to be the victims of harassment may bring a claim to the Equality Tribunal.
Compliance with employment rights legislation is a matter for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I am, nevertheless, aware of the ESRI Report on Migrants' Experience of Racism and Discrimination in Ireland. The Report describes the subjective experiences of racism, discrimination and exploitation in respect of a random sample of employment permit holders and asylum seekers. I have already stated, in response to the publication of the ESRI Report, that my Department is developing integration strategies through the National Action Plan Against Racism and the existing equality framework with a view to combating racism and creating an intercultural society through interaction, equality of opportunity, tolerance and respect.
236 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in finalising the application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39062/06]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation, based on marriage to an Irish citizen, was received in the Citizenship Section of my Department on 21 June 2004 and was assigned file reference number 68/2104/04.
The applicant subsequently lodged a fresh application on 23 February 2006 (68/1232/06) as it appears he may have been under the misapprehension that the initial application was deemed not to have fulfilled the relevant statutory conditions.
I am informed by staff of the Citizenship Section of my Department that the original application is valid and that as applications received in the second half of 2004 are currently being processed, the file in question will be forwarded to me shortly for a decision.
I will of course advise both the Deputy and the person concerned when I have reached a decision on the application.
237 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to tackle anti-social behaviour in Tralee; the resources he has allocated to Gardaí in recent months to deal with the problem; and the impact of the community policing initiative in Tralee. [39063/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that current policing plans for the Tralee area are predicated on the prevention of anti-social and public order offences, the prevention of crime, including crimes of violence against persons and property, and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a policing service to the area. I am advised that to date in 2006 there have been almost 1,000 arrests made for public order/anti-social behaviour offences in Tralee.
I am further informed that in order to maintain public order in the town and reduce the numbers of people leaving licensed premises at peak times, and as a result of submissions made by local Garda management, the latest permitted finishing time for special exemptions, granted by the District Court for the Tralee area, has been changed from 2.30 am to 2.00 am. In addition, the CCTV system currently in place is being reviewed to ensure optimum coverage of the town. I am also informed that nine additional Gardaí have been allocated to Tralee Garda District, which now has a personnel strength of 96 (all ranks). This has been beneficial to policing in terms of enforcement and visibility. The Community Policing Unit pays particular attention to outlying estates by way of foot and mountain bike patrols. Extra patrols by uniform and plain-clothes Gardaí have been put in place by local management, and, utilising resources under Operation Anvil, public disorder hotspots are being actively targeted, particularly at weekends.
Garda Youth Diversion Projects are a tangible measure of crime prevention and reflect the commitment of my Department and the Garda Síochána to multi-agency partnership approaches to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour at community level. The role of the youth diversion projects is to bring about conditions whereby the behavioural patterns of young people towards law and order can develop and mature through positive interventions and interaction with the project. There is currently one project in Tralee, Connect 7.
It is my intention that 100 projects will be established nationwide before the end of 2007. Recently I announced the establishment of ten new projects in the first phase of the expansion of the scheme, bringing the total number of projects to 74. Two of the ten projects are located in Tralee.
238 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will assign more Gardaí to Castleisland for immigration duties at Kerry Airport in Farranfore; the position regarding plans to build a new Garda station in Castleisland; the increase in the number of Gardaí assigned to Garda stations in north Kerry since 2002; and his plans to assign more Gardaí to north Kerry in the months ahead. [39065/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) 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 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.
Garda boundaries do not always correlate with County and Electoral boundaries. I have been further informed that the personnel strength (all ranks) of the Kerry Division as at 31 December, 1997 and 2002, and as at 20 November, 2006 was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Date |
Strength |
|
31/12/97 |
230 |
|
31/12/02 |
266 |
|
20/11/06 |
294 |
This represents an increase of 64 (or 27.8%) in the number of Garda personnel allocated to the Kerry Division during the period above. In addition, I would point out to the Deputy that the Division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda National Units such as the Garda National Drugs Unit, the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) and other specialised units.
Local Garda management report that with the continued expansion at Kerry (Farranfore) Airport, a review of policing and Immigration requirements at Kerry Airport has commenced. I understand that the Office of Public Works expect to have a Sketch Scheme ready, for the new Garda Area Headquarters Station at Castleisland by the end of the year, for submission to my Department and the Garda authorities.
I further understand that on approval of the Sketch Scheme the OPW expect to initiate the requisite planning process early next year. The Deputy can be assured that my officials will continue to liaise closely with the OPW with a view to addressing the accommodation needs of the Gardaí at Castleisland.
I should add that 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.
239 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide more details on the placement of personnel (details supplied) in County Mayo. [39122/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) 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 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 on 17 November, 2006, 3 Probationer Gardaí were allocated from the Garda College, Templemore to Garda Stations within the Mayo Garda Division as set out in the following table:
|
Station |
Gardaí |
|
Ballina |
1 |
|
Belmullet |
1 |
|
Swinford |
1 |
I have also been informed that on 22 November, 2006, 3 Gardaí will transfer to Garda Stations within the Mayo Garda Division as set out in the following table:
|
Station |
Gardaí |
|
Castlebar |
1 |
|
Belmullet |
1 |
|
Claremorris |
1 |
I should add that 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.
240 Ms C. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of the persons who committed suicide in each year since 1999, who had been reported missing prior to being found dead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39213/06]
I have requested a Garda report in relation to this matter and I will contact the Deputy again when the report is to hand.
241 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Finance when the Garda barracks will be constructed at Kilfinane, County Limerick. [39009/06]
A Sketch Scheme for the new Garda station at Kilfinane will be sent to the Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform and the Garda Authorities for approval in early 2007. A Part 9 planning process will then be initiated on receipt of approval. It is anticipated that work on the new Garda station will have commenced by the end of 2007.
242 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Finance the progress to date on surveying all primary and post-primary school buildings in order to identify the presence of asbestos; the timescale for total eradication of asbestos from school buildings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39207/06]
In the seven years since the commencement of the Asbestos Management Programme in schools, approximately 3,700 schools have been surveyed and works identified as necessary have either been completed, are in hand or are programmed over the coming months.
The remaining 460 or so schools will be surveyed by Spring 2007 and arrangements for removal where necessary and in other cases the management of any materials identified will be put in hand. Remediation works are carried out on a priority basis, as soon as possible following the surveys.
The timescale for total eradication of asbestos from schools will depend on the type, location and condition of materials identified. Regard must always be given to the special nature of the school environment in deciding whether to remove asbestos containing materials or manage them safely in situ.
Removal of asbestos containing material is not always an appropriate solution. In these circumstances it is difficult to forecast a precise completion time for the programme.
243 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Finance when the underspend in the Border Midland Western region will be made up by the Government; his views on whether funding is urgently needed in the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38480/06]
Investments under the National Development Plan/Community Support Framework (NDP/ CSF) 2000-2006 are delivered through seven Operational Programmes (OPs) which are directly managed and implemented by Government Departments, the Regional Assemblies and other Agencies. My main concern is to ensure that the available funds are allocated in a manner that meets the Government's objectives and secures full draw-down of Ireland's entitlement of Structural Funds. I am anxious to ensure that both regions secure the EU and Exchequer funding available to them under the National Plan. In this regard, I have written to my ministerial colleagues asking them to ensure that the investment objectives for the Border, Midlands and Western (BMW) region are appropriately prioritised to ensure that outcome.
The House will be aware of the general state of play in relation to expenditure in the BMW region from previous debates and questions on this issue. The figures reported at the recent Monitoring Committee meetings indicate that some €11.1 billion or 82% of forecast Exchequer and EU expenditure had been incurred by the end of June 2006. This is a healthy implementation rate in view of the slow start up in some areas at the very beginning, the relatively disappointing response in certain demand led schemes and the fact that Exchequer spending in relation to Structural Fund Measures for the 2000-2006 period will in fact continue up to 2008 in accordance with EU Regulations. Based on the most recent information available to me from Monitoring Committee reports including their assessments of continuing spend under the current NDP, I expect that by the end of the programme period, the original forecasts for Exchequer and EU spending in the BMW region will have been realised in full.
The Government's commitment to the BMW region does not cease when the current funding round draws to a close. Investment to achieve more balanced regional development is a key Government priority. This has been underscored by the publication the National Spatial Strategy (NSS). The implementation of the NSS will be a central element of the next NDP (2007-2013). The new NDP 2007-2013, currently being finalised, will build on the achievements already taking place under the current Plan and will continue progress towards ensuring a more balanced distribution of development in the country. In addition, the BMW region will also receive Structural Funds allocation of €458 million under the next round of funding for 2007-2013. In that context, my Department is also preparing the National Strategic Reference Framework which will set out the strategic orientation of the Structural Funds and link the European Community's priorities with the national and regional priorities, and which in turn will assist in the preparation of the relevant Operational Programmes.
244 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the cost of reducing the higher tax band from 42% to 40%. [38486/06]
By reference to the 2007 pre-Budget income tax ready reckoner prepared by the Revenue Commissioners the full year cost to the Exchequer of reducing the top rate of tax from 42% to 40% is estimated to be €457 million. This figure is provisional and subject to revision. The ready reckoner is available on my Department's website, at www.finance.gov.ie.
245 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the cost of changes to stamp duty for first-time buyers of second hand houses and apartments whereby houses up to €419,809 would be exempt from stamp duty, houses from €419,810 to €635,000 would be charged at 6% and where the rate of 9% would be retained for houses over €635,000. [38487/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated cost of extending the current stamp duty exemption of €317,500 to €419,809 with a 6% stamp duty applying to houses costing from €419,810 to €635,000 for first time buyers of all second hand residential property is estimated at €35 million in a full year, based on the stamp duty yield in the first 9 months of 2006 grossed up to a 12-months basis.
246 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the tax projections by source underpinning the forecast tax reserve of €47.4 billion in 2007 and the implied absolute and percentage growth on the 2006 outturn. [38555/06]
As indicated in the Pre Budget Outlook, the tax projections take account of performance to the end of September and revisions to the economic projections since Budget 2006. The tax projection for 2007 shows an increase of €3,550 million or 8.1 per cent over the projected outturn for 2006. The principal sources of revenue, as a proportion of total tax revenue, are Income tax (28 per cent), consumption taxes (45 per cent), corporation tax (13 per cent) and capital taxes, including stamp duty (14 per cent). These projections will of course be affected by any decisions taken in the context of the forthcoming Budget.
These projections are technical in nature and will inevitably differ from those that will be published on Budget day, not least because of performance during the remainder of 2006. For example, about 20 per cent of total taxes profiled for collection in 2006 are expected in November alone. The latest Exchequer Statement provides details of how the different tax heads are performing against profile.
It is likely however that capital taxes will make up a significant part of the final excess for 2006, owing much to the continued buoyancy of the property market. In addition, there is no reason to believe, at this point, that the other taxes which have performed well to date will not continue to perform well and these will likely contribute to the overall projected excess.
Tax projections for 2006 and 2007 will be published in detail on a pre-Budget basis in the White Paper on Receipts and Expenditure. The post-Budget details will be published on Budget day.
247 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Finance when he expects to have completed drafting of the National Development Plan 2007 to 2013; if an independent ex-ante evaluation will be commissioned on the draft plan; when he expects to publish the final plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38569/06]
It is intended that the NDP 2007-2013 will be published in January next. The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) was commissioned by my Department to undertake an independent ex-ante evaluation of the investment priorities for the NDP 2007-2013. The ESRI's report was published on the 24th of October 2006.
248 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the position on the arrangements for an application system modelled on the central applications facility for civil servants and public servants who intend to remain in the Dublin area in the context of the Government’s proposed decentralisation proposal; the number of applications that have been received; the Departments they were received from; if the Dublin central applications facility for civil servants who wish to remain in Dublin is still operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38587/06]
The primary mechanism for placing civil servants who are in posts which are due to decentralise but wish to remain in Dublin is by way of bilateral transfer. As staff in organisations who are remaining in Dublin, who have applied to decentralise, continue to be transferred into decentralising organisations, the posts they vacate become available to those wishing to remain in Dublin.
In addition, the Public Appointments Service has commenced the operation of a system which will match Dublin based posts with people wishing to remain in Dublin. Any decentralising organisation which anticipates that it will have staff wishing to remain in Dublin who cannot be placed within the organisation will engage with the Public Appointments Service in the placement of these individuals. The precise operation of these arrangements is currently being discussed with the civil service unions to improve their overall effectiveness. The aim is to achieve a close alignment between the assignment of staff to Dublin posts and the readiness of Departments to release staff at particular grade levels. When these discussions are concluded, Departments and Offices will be asked to update their returns to the Public Appointments Service. The information sought by the Deputy will be furnished as soon as that exercise is completed.
249 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Finance the number of staff in his Department who have indicated willingness to decentralise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38595/06]
The number of staff in my Department who currently have live applications on the Central Applications Facility for decentralisation to other Departments/Offices is sixty nine (69), a further thirty seven (37) staff have already transferred to other departments giving a total of 106 people.
This 106 figure does not include staff in my Department who have already decentralised to Tullamore or those who wish to decentralise to Kildare (12).
250 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Finance if an organisation (details supplied) in County Donegal has requested to be part of an overall programme of the decentralisation of a Government Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38621/06]
The Commissioners of Public Works have informed me that they have purchased a site in Buncrana, County Donegal to accommodate the Department of Social and Family Affairs (decentralised and local office) and the Garda Síochána. The site will be fully utilised in meeting these requirements.
251 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance his views on the representations from a person (details supplied) with regards to the reintroduction of a limited form of rollover to assist in exchange of lands where Teagasc certify that same is in accordance with good farm management, as provided for in the stamp duty regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38627/06]
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) is a tax on a capital gain arising on the disposal of assets. A 20% rate of CGT applies on the gains arising on the disposal of assets. In Budget 2003, it was announced that no rollover relief would be allowed for any purpose on gains arising from disposals on or after 4 December 2002. Rollover relief applied when CGT rates were much higher. In effect, it was a deferral of the tax to be paid, where the proceeds of the disposal were re-invested into replacement assets. The taxation of these gains would take place following the eventual disposal of the new assets without their replacement. The abolition of this relief is in accordance with the overall taxation policy of widening the tax base in order to keep direct tax rates low.
Such reliefs made sense when CGT rates were 40% and above. As the Deputy may be aware, the rate was halved from 40% to 20% in Budget 1998. Taxing capital gains when they are realised is logical, and this change brings CGT into line with other areas.
However, in the last two Budgets various measures were introduced to assist the farming community. I announced in the 2005 Budget a new stamp duty relief which applies solely to farmland being exchanged between two farmers for the purposes of consolidating each farmer's holding. Guidelines in relation to this relief are available from the Department of Agriculture and Food. Budget 2006 extended the Young Trained Farmer Stamp Duty Relief for a further three years. I also provided for tax relief on the EU Single Farm Payment Entitlement under CGT Retirement Relief and CAT Agricultural Relief. In addition, I exempted all transfers of the Single Payment from stamp duty. I have no plans for the re-introduction of rollover relief.
252 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the revenue generated in 2005 by stamp duty on ATM cards; the revenue generated in 2005 by stamp duty on debit laser cards; and the revenue generated in 2005 by stamp duty on combined ATM debit cards. [38672/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the net receipts from stamp duty on ATM/Debit cards, in 2005 were as follows:
|
€m |
|
|
ATM card without a ‘Debit’ function |
22.4 |
|
‘Debit’ card without an ATM function |
3.3 |
|
Combined ATM and ‘Debit’ card |
12.2 |
|
Total |
37.9 |
253 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the amount of revenue which would be raised from a €1 increase on a packet of 20 cigarettes based on 2005 figures. [38673/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the yield of Excise and VAT to the Exchequer which would be raised from a €1 increase on a packet of 20 cigarettes is estimated at €219 million based on 2005 figures.
254 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Finance the respective roles of his Department and the Financial Regulator in the formation of policy in key areas, specifically in the reform of credit union legislation; if his recent decision to ask the Financial Regulator to examine proposals on the savings protection scheme and to champion the reform of the regulatory framework for the credit union movement, involves an abdication of responsibility for policy information by his Department by bestowing such powers on the regulator; his views on whether this is appropriate in terms of the respective roles of both the regulator and his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38703/06]
The Credit Union Act, 1997 provides the legal framework for the regulation of credit unions. The Act provides the credit union movement with a regulatory structure that reflects and promotes the particular ethos and philosophy of the credit union movement, its strong tradition of volunteer service and the core objective of providing opportunities for saving and lending for members of credit unions. The role of my Department is to advise on ensuring that the legal framework for credit unions continues to be appropriate for the effective operation and supervision of credit unions. The Registrar of Credit Unions in the Financial Regulator is responsible for the administration of the regulatory and supervisory regime for credit unions under the Credit Union Act. The Registrar's powers in relation to the control and supervision of credit unions are set out in Part VI of the Credit Union Act. The purpose of supervision is twofold namely the protection of the funds of credit union members and the maintenance of the financial stability and well-being of credit unions generally. The Credit Union Advisory Committee (CUAC) — the statutory expert advisory body under the Credit Union Act — also provide advice and information to me on key regulatory issues for credit unions.
Approval for savings protection arrangements in credit unions is the responsibility of the Regulatory Authority under Section 46 of the Credit Union Act. In May 2006 the Financial Regulator agreed to examine proposals for the reform of the existing Savings Protection Scheme for credit unions and this commitment is included in the Financial Regulator's recently published three-year Strategic Plan.
The case for modernising the regulatory framework for credit unions has been raised by both the Registrar of Credit Unions and the representative bodies for credit unions. In this context, it is important that there is a clear shared understanding on how a new regulatory framework would operate, before moving to develop specific proposals for further consideration by my Department, drawing on the advice of CUAC. Consequently, I wrote to the Chair of the Financial Regulator earlier this year recommending that the Financial Regulator engages with the credit union movement, in the first instance, to identify common ground in relation to a set of principles that could guide the development of an updated regulatory framework for credit unions. The Chair of the Financial Regulator has indicated the Authority's willingness to move forward on this basis and I look forward to considering the proposals that emerge from these considerations.
I consider that the consultative approach adopted in this instance which is fully consistent with the principles of Better Regulation is essential to ensuring that any proposals with implications for the reform of the regulatory and legislative framework for credit unions are fully informed by the views of both the credit union stakeholders and the Regulatory Authority.
255 Mr. English asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works intends to locate a driving test centre at the old AIB building in Main Street, Blanchardstown; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38736/06]
The building referred to has been allocated to the Department of Transport for use as a Driving Test Centre. Preparations are under way on the submission of a planning application to the local authority.
256 Mr. English asked the Minister for Finance the outcome of the Office of Public Work’s study into opening the Phoenix Park to buses. [38737/06]
The independent Traffic Study for the Phoenix Park, completed recently, examined a range of measures to alleviate pressures on the Park and make it more accessible and safer for all Park users. Prior to formulation of the Study, a public consultation process was undertaken by the consultants.
One of the measures recommended in the Study is the provision of a public commuter bus service via Chesterfield Avenue to the city centre. Another measure recommended in the Study is the provision of a Park shuttle service to provide access for the public from Heuston station to all the main features in the Park.
The Commissioners expect that the public consultation process on the completed Study, will be concluded by mid December.
The Commissioners have written to Dublin Bus inviting proposals for a service through the Phoenix Park.
257 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Finance his Department has been requested to seek an alternative site for the Garda station at Watercourse Road, Blackpool, County Cork; and if there are plans for the disposal of the building. [38935/06]
The future of Watercourse Road Garda station is under consideration by the Garda Authorities in consultation with the Commissioners of Public Works. Disposal of this Garda station premises is not currently under consideration.
258 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the annual cost of increasing the maximum mortgage interest relief available for first-time buyers on or below the average industrial wage from €800 to €1,000 per annum for single people and from €1,600 to €2,000 per annum for widowed and married people. [38936/06]
259 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the annual cost of increasing the maximum mortgage interest relief available for first-time buyers on or below the average industrial wage from €800 to €1,200 per annum for single people and from €1,600 to €2,400 per annum for widowed and married people. [38937/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 258 and 259 together.
I assume that what the Deputy has in mind is the cost of increasing the maximum mortgage interest relief available for first time buyers in the first seven years of a mortgage in certain cases.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the full year costs to the Exchequer, based on projected 2007 incomes, of the changes referred to by the Deputy are estimated to be in the region of €5 million and €8 million respectively.
However, I would point out that a scheme on the lines suggested would be likely to raise practical, operational and administrative difficulties, in particular for the financial institutions who operate the mortgage interest relief at source system.
These figures are provisional and subject to revision.
260 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Finance the estimated annual cost in terms of revenue foregone on tax and PRSI concessions relating to contributions to approved pension schemes, including occupational schemes, AVCs, PRSAs, and self-employed and director arrangements in each of the most recent three years for which data is available, showing separately figures for PAYE, PRSI and other tax headings, for example, self-employed persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38938/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the relevant available information relates to the estimated cost of tax relief on pension contributions by employers, employees and self-employed and the exemption from tax of income in the pension funds. This information is provided for the three income tax years 2001 to 2003, the latest year for which it is available.
|
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
|
|
Type of Pension Contributions |
€ million |
€ million |
€ million |
|
Employees’ Contributions to approved Superannuation Schemes |
389 |
563 |
622 |
|
Employers’ Contributions to approved Superannuation Schemes |
498 |
623 |
564 |
|
Exemption of Net Income of approved Superannuation Funds (Contributions plus Investment Income less Outgoings) |
938 |
1,272 |
1,434 |
|
Retirement Annuity Contracts (RACs) |
185 |
251 |
264 |
|
Personal Retirement Savings Accounts (PRSAs) * |
N/A |
N/A |
6 |
|
Total |
2,010 |
2,709 |
2,809 |
*Figures for PRSAs reflect the relative early stage of the scheme which was introduced in 2002.
It should be noted in relation to the tax year 2001, that as PAYE taxpayers were charged to tax on their earnings in the period from 6 April to 31 December 2001 and self-employed taxpayers were assessed to tax for that short year on 74% of the profits earned in a 12 month accounting period, the cost figures will not be directly comparable with those of later years.
It should also be noted that these costs are very tentative and that efforts are being made to improve information on the cost of tax relief for pensions. The cost figures in respect of pension contributions by proprietary directors are included in the overall figures provided and a breakdown is not available. With regard to occupational pensions, that is, schemes set up by the employer, the figures in respect of employee and employer contributions are available only in aggregate form on a tentative basis. RACs are used by the self-employed and by employees who are not in pensionable employment.
Estimates of PRSI costs in relation to pension contributions have not been compiled and are not available.
261 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Finance if, in cases where VRT has been paid on commercial vehicles and where subsequently the owner wants to use the vehicle for ordinary passenger use, the original VRT paid is taken into account and deducted from the extra VRT that has to be paid in order to upgrade the vehicle to passenger use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38980/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the original vehicle registration tax, VRT, paid is taken into account where a commercial vehicle which has been previously registered for VRT purposes in the State is converted in such a manner that the VRT classification changes from category B or C (commercial) to category A (passenger).
Section 132(5) of the Finance Act 1992 provides for the methodology to be used in the calculation of VRT liability in such instances. When the converted vehicle is presented to Revenue for assessment of the additional VRT due, the methodology allows for the residual VRT on the pre-converted vehicle to be calculated, based on the open market selling price on that day, of a similar second-hand commercial vehicle. This is then offset against the VRT due.
262 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the procedures for removing a person who is employed by or under the State; if an outside body can terminate said employment or instruct it to be terminated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38992/06]
I understand that the Deputy's question relates specifically to the situation regarding civil servants. There are a number of grounds on which a civil servant may be removed from office. First, under the Civil Service Regulation (Amendment) Act 2005, which was commenced on 4 July 2006, disciplinary action may be taken on grounds of misconduct, irregularity, neglect, unsatisfactory behaviour or underperformance. The relevant Minister has powers of discipline and dismissal for the grades of principal upwards and Secretaries General and heads of office have responsibility for grades below principal. The Government is responsible for the dismissal of civil servants appointed by it.
Second, the Civil Service Regulation (Amendment) Act 2005 provides for transitional arrangements in situations where proceedings, procedures or measures in relation to discipline and dismissal have begun before the Act is commenced, these proceedings are not affected by the changes to the Regulation Act. Such proceedings are to continue until completed or concluded as if the arrangements prior to the amendment of the Civil Service Regulation Act 1956 were still in place.
Third, the Civil Regulation Act 1956 also allows for compulsory retirement on grounds of ill-health at the initiative of the employing Department or office. Finally, under the 1909 and 1963 Superannuation and Pensions Acts, an officer may be retired early on grounds of organisational efficiency or effectiveness and receive a pension before the normal pension age.
263 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health and Children the maximum amount a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7 can earn and still retain their medical card; if this amount referred to has changed over the past eight years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38642/06]
Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of general practitioner, GP, services. In 2005 the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP.
Since the beginning of 2005, substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29%. Income assessed is now after income tax and PRSI. In addition, allowance is made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage or rent, child care and travel to work costs. In June 2006, I agreed with the Health Service Executive, HSE, a further adjustment to the assessment guidelines for GP visit cards and these are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards.
The financial guidelines used by the executive to assist it in determining if a person qualifies for a medical card have been changed over the past eight years. The following table gives details of medical card and GP visit card guidelines as at 20 November 2006. As the HSE has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
The following table shows allowed weekly income, after tax and PRSI, before mortgage or rent, child care and travel to work expenses are allowed for.
|
Medical Card (with effect from October 2005) |
GP Visit Card (with effect from June 2006) |
|
|
Single Person Living Alone |
||
|
Aged up to 65 years |
184.00 |
276.00 |
|
Aged between 66-69 years |
201.50 |
302.00 |
|
Single Person Living with Family |
||
|
Aged up to 65 years |
164.00 |
246.00 |
|
Aged between 66-69 years |
173.50 |
260.00 |
|
Married couple/Single Parent Families with dependent children |
||
|
Aged up to 65 years |
266.50 |
400.00 |
|
With 1 Child |
304.50 |
457.00 |
|
With 2 Children |
342.50 |
514.00 |
|
With 3 Children |
383.50 |
575.00 |
|
With 4 Children |
424.50 |
637.00 |
264 Mr. English asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is her view that the proposed Central Mental Hospital can be located at Thornton, County Dublin without planning permission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38735/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
265 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the majority of physiotherapy graduates from UCD in 2006 have been unable to find work in the health services here; if she will engage with the Health Service Executive to ensure that the needs of the public and the availability of qualified professionals are matched through the creation of posts in physiotherapy in the health services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38933/06]
311 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention is drawn to the fact that the majority of graduates in physiotherapy from UCD in 2006 have been unable to find posts in the health services here; if her Department has plans to provide funding to the Health Service Executive to sanction additional posts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38940/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 265 and 311 together.
I was recently made aware that an issue has arisen around the availability of employment opportunities for recently qualified physiotherapists and I have asked the HSE to give the matter its urgent attention. It is a matter for the Health Service Executive, as part of the management of its employment ceiling, to determine the appropriate staffing mix required to deliver its service plan priorities.
It is important to note that there is not an over supply of physiotherapists in Ireland. The Bacon Report, Current and Future Supply and Demand Conditions in the Labour Market for Certain Professional Therapists, March 2001 recommended an increase in physiotherapy training places, following which additional training places were provided. There continues to be a growing demand for physiotherapy services and this is likely to continue as was highlighted in the Healthcare Skills Monitoring Report (FÁS, August 2005) and as evidenced by the number of development posts planned for the physiotherapy profession in the coming years.
At present, there is a significant demand for Senior Physiotherapists but, at the present time, less opportunities for newly qualified graduates. I am advised that the HSE has recently advertised 81 Primary Care physiotherapy posts and there will be a further 62 development posts in physiotherapy, in areas such as services for persons with disability and older person's services. The majority of these posts, which should be filled in the coming months, are at senior level, but their filling should provide employment opportunities for recent graduates through backfill. As the development posts are taken up by seniors, or more qualified basic grades currently in the system, a gap will be left for the recent physiotherapy graduates.
My Department and the HSE have identified this issue as a priority and are taking steps, in consultation with relevant stakeholders to find a satisfactory and sustainable outcome in the interest of the patient, the public, physiotherapists seeking employment and the HSE itself.
266 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide funding for a dedicated eating disorder service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39159/06]
335 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children if funding will be provided for dedicated eating disorder services for young people; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39106/06]
337 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children the initiatives that have been undertaken by her Department to highlight the problem of eating disorders here; the services currently in place for both the prevention and treatment of such conditions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39158/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 266, 335 and 337 together.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services, including the treatment of eating disorders, has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
267 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on concerns that the Irish Osteoporosis Society may have to close due to lack of funding; the steps she will take to support people with osteoporosis; the number of people with osteoporosis here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39352/06]
293 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will comment on concerns that the Irish Osteoporosis Society may have to close due to lack of funding; the steps she will take to support people with osteoporosis; the numbers of people with osteoporosis here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38612/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 267 and 293 together.
The Irish Osteoporosis Society (IOS) received funding from the Health Service Executive of €130,000 in 2005. The IOS sought further funding of €128,000 during 2006. Following a series of meetings and checking of documentation, the HSE provided this amount to the IOS on the 22nd of September 2006.
The Health Service Executive has informed my Department that the IOS have not formally applied for further funding but have indicated they wish to. Representatives from the Population Health Directorate are scheduled to meet with the IOS on the 28th November to discuss funding.
Osteoporosis can affect men, women and children of all ages. As many cases of osteoporosis remain undetected until a fracture is sustained it is difficult to give exact incidence and prevalence rates for the disease in Ireland. However, osteoporosis is currently estimated to affect 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men over 50 years of age. Furthermore, loss of bone density, symptomatic of the potential to develop osteoporosis occurs with advancing age and rates of fracture increase markedly with age, giving rise to significant morbidity and mortality.
The Department has supported the National Council on Ageing and Older People and the Health Service Executive in the establishment of a steering committee to oversee the development of a strategy to prevent falls and fractures in the ageing population. This committee is chaired by the HSE, and it is understood that a subgroup has been established to examine the area of osteoporosis.
268 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children the proposals she has to provide independent living for people who have a disability and in particular in relation to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38489/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
269 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children when it is proposed to introduce a new Pharmacy Act; if the heads of such legislation have been approved by Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38490/06]
As I have previously stated, I consider the first Pharmacy Bill a priority piece of legislation. The first Bill will deal with the governance of the Pharmaceutical Society, registration and fitness to practice issues. It will also remove the EU derogation for supervisory pharmacists (where only Irish-trained pharmacists can supervise pharmacies less than three years old). The general scheme and draft heads of the first Bill were approved by Government on 25th May 2006. Work on the drafting of the Bill is ongoing between my officials and the Parliamentary Counsel's Office. Subject to the Cabinet's approval, I hope to publish the Bill and present it to the Oireachtas before the end of the current session of the Oireachtas.
270 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 in getting a medical card; and the reason for the hold-up regarding this issue. [38491/06]
Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of General Practitioner (GP) services. In 2005 the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP.
Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29% and in addition allowance is now made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, childcare and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed with the Health Service Executive a further adjustment to the assessment guidelines for GP visit cards and these are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
271 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of drug trials involving psychiatric patients in 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006. [38492/06]
The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table below.
|
Year |
Number of Trials |
|
2004 |
6 |
|
2005 |
1 |
|
2006 to date |
2 |
272 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons with an intellectual disability in psychiatric hospitals. [38493/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
273 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures she is taking in relation to the urgent requirements for the development of an acute in-patient unit at Beaumont Hospital as outlined in the 2004 Annual Report of the Mental Health Commission. [38494/06]
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.
274 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if a hospital appointment will be arranged as a matter of urgency for a person (details supplied) in County Louth in view of the persons ongoing medical condition; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38495/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
275 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if a full medical card will be issued in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will expedite the matter. [38497/06]
Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of General Practitioner (GP) services. In 2005 the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP.
Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29% and in addition allowance is now made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, childcare and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed with the Health Service Executive a further adjustment to the assessment guidelines for GP visit cards and these are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
276 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children if her Department intends investing to a greater extent in cardiovascular health services following recent research which found that Ireland spends the second lowest proportion of it’s health care budget in heart and circulatory diseases in the enlarged EU; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38524/06]
The study to which the question refers is the ‘Economic burden of cardiovascular diseases in the enlarged EU' by Leal J, Luengo-Fernández R, Gray A, Petersen S and Rayner M. European Heart Journal, doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehi733.
I understand that the authors set out to provide an estimate of the economic costs of cardiovascular disease for EU countries. Data were obtained from published studies of healthcare costs and health service utilisation. It appears that all costs for health care in Ireland were extrapolated from costs in other countries.
It is unclear how some of costs were estimated, for example, annual loss of earnings or the cost for a day's inpatient care. The data on costs and resource implications were used to estimate the costs of cardiovascular disease.
Given that the authors may have underestimated the true costs in Ireland, there are question marks about the accuracy of the overall findings as they relate to this country. It is also possible that the authors did not include the costs of services provided in the private sector.
There has been rapid expansion in cardiology services in Ireland in recent years. The Cardiovascular Health Strategy — Building Healthier Hearts — was launched in 1999. The report makes recommendations about the prevention, treatment and surveillance of coronary heart disease across a number of sectors and the full range of health service activities, in health promotion, primary care, pre-hospital care, acute hospital services and cardiac rehabilitation.
Since 2000 the Government has committed over €60 million towards the implementation of the Strategy. This funding has supported a wide range of new regional services and initiatives, which have had a measurable impact on the diagnosis, and treatment of patients with heart disease. More than 800 new posts have been created, including 19 additional consultant cardiology posts.
We have made progress in addressing the key challenges in the implementation of the Cardiovascular Health Strategy in relation to (i) Improving Population Health: by supporting intersectoral work for health promotion, to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease and improve quality of life; (ii) Ensuring equitable access to services: by continued provision of resources and support to fully implement outstanding Cardiovascular Health Strategy recommendations to meet the needs of the growing numbers of older people and to provide new treatments for which there is evidence of effectiveness; (iii) Improving the quality of services: by developing and implementing practice guidelines, the implementation of cardiovascular health information systems, support for clinical audit and for research to enhance the quality of services.
It appears that the study may not reflect the current level of expenditure and service provision. The study is useful however in drawing to our attention the high costs of cardiovascular disease both in Ireland and at European level, not just the costs of health care but also the costs to the economy and to families and carers.
277 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate the non-payment of a specific type of grant approved by the Health Service Executive in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [38525/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
278 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when the health care assistants working at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Ennis, County Clare who have passed their full examinations will be appointed to full time positions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38526/06]
Over 120,000 people work full-time or part-time in our public health services. In recent years, the Government's ongoing high level of investment in health has achieved and maintained significant increases in the number of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals employed in the public health services. The Government has also invested heavily in the education and training of such personnel in order to secure a good supply of graduates to provide for the healthcare needs of the population into the future.
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. The Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
279 Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health and Children the average waiting time nationally for consultation and treatment for public orthodontic patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38532/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
280 Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will appoint a specialist orthodontist for the Kerry area to cope with the present public waiting list which has been closed due to the volume of patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38533/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
281 Mr. Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will replace the two dentists that left the public orthodontist unit for Cork and Kerry as the waiting list has over 1,000 patients on it and had to be closed by the senior public orthodontist due to reduced staff numbers and an increase of patients waiting for four or five years for this treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38534/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
282 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children when a full time palliative care unit will be established at Mayo General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38545/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
283 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the date the third dialysis session at Mayo General Hospital will be up and running; if same will happen before the end of 2006 as previously stated by her Department as the dialysis department of Mayo General Hospital are not aware of the increased capacity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38551/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
284 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 559 of 27 September 2006, the mechanism a voluntary group (details supplied) in County Kildare can follow to assist in the purchase of a defibrillator, in view of the work defibrillators play in the protection of human life and their value to the local community. [38556/06]
285 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 700 of 27 September 2006 and in view of the work that defibrillators can play in the protection of human life, if she has plans to provide grant aid to sports clubs and voluntary organisations to help with the considerable purchase price of defibrillators. [38557/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 284 and 285 together.
In September 2004 a national Task Force on Sudden Cardiac Death was established in order to address the problem of sudden cardiac death in Ireland. The Report of the Task Force, published in March 2006, makes recommendations on the prevention of sudden cardiac death and on the detection of those at high risk.
The Task Force supports the establishment of first responder programmes and recommends that priority should be given to programmes, geographical locations and facilities identified as having the greatest need. All programmes should be coordinated by the HSE ambulance services, with best practice guidance from the Pre Hospital Emergency Care Council.
The Task Force also recommends that Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) should be placed in facilities where the incidence of cardiac arrest is high, including: inpatient health facilities; G.P. surgeries and primary care facilities; airports, shopping centres, major sports venues and golf courses, bus/rail terminals, ferries/ferry terminals, concert and conference venues; universities and colleges; gyms and fitness clubs; and other venues for major public events.
My Department has no plans to provide grant aid to assist in the purchase of AEDs for these or other facilities. Where funding for AEDs or first responder schemes is required, the Health Service Executive, which has overall responsibility for the implementation of the report's recommendations, may consider such applications, subject to financial constraints and guided by the priorities identified in the report.
286 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Health and Children the average length of time involved in processing a payment under the nursing home repayment scheme from receipt of application to final repayment; the number of applications received from each county; the average payment; if a dedicated helpline continues to exist for applicants; if a dedicated point of contact exists for Members of the Oireachtas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38570/06]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.
My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.
287 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Health and Children when payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38571/06]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.
My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.
288 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a special needs assistant has been removed from a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if the decision will be reconsidered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38572/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
289 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of applications received for repayments under the national repayments scheme to date; the number of those applications that have been fully processed; when she expects all applications to be fully processed and all due repayments awarded to applicants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38588/06]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.
My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.
290 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children the availability of BreastCheck in County Cavan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38589/06]
291 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children the availability of BreastCheck in County Monaghan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38590/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 290 and 291 together.
I have met with representatives of BreastCheck and they are fully aware of my wish to have a quality assured programme rolled out to the remaining regions in the country as quickly as possible. I have approved additional revenue funding of €8 million for 2007 to meet the additional costs of roll-out and an additional 69 posts have been approved. BreastCheck also requires considerable capital investment in the construction of two new clinical units and in the provision of five additional mobile units and state of the art digital equipment. I have made available an additional €21m capital funding to BreastCheck for this purpose. This investment will support the roll out to the South and West commencing in the Spring of next year.
At a meeting with my Department recently, BreastCheck reported on significant progress that has been made in preparation for the roll-out. BreastCheck has appointed Clinical Directors for the Southern and Western regions. The recruitment of Consultants and other staff, including Radiographers, is underway. Construction teams have been appointed for the static units in University College Hospital Galway and South Infirmary/Victoria Hospital, Cork. Construction commenced in Cork on 3 November and in Galway on 7 November.
As regards the roll out to specific counties, my Department has requested the Director of the Programme to respond directly to the Deputy.
292 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will intervene with St. James’s Hospital on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo and have them called for treatment as their condition has deteriorated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38599/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
294 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will urgently take action regarding the parking situation especially for patients attending St. Martins’ dialysis unit, Beaumont Hospital; and when the new 40-bed unit will be built. [38613/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
295 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will assist the Centre for Independent Living in Castlebar, County Mayo; and if she will support them in their request for personal assistants for 70 people. [38623/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
296 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Health and Children the procedures in place in hospitals, health centres and Government offices to minimise the risk of Legionnaires’ disease from showers, spray taps and ornamental fountains; if risk assessments have been carried out on all public buildings; if these risk assessments are available to the public and to staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38637/06]
The management of public health aspects of Legionnaires' disease is carried out in accordance with multidisciplinary guidance which was produced by the Health Service Executive — Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HSE — HPSC) and covers the prevention, environmental health management, contact tracing and surveillance of cases of Legionnaires' disease in both hospital and community settings. This is available on the HPSC website at www.hpsc.ie. The operational aspects of the public health management or surveillance of Legionnaires’ disease are handled as a matter of routine by the Health Service Executive.
297 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Health and Children if the proposed health Bill will provide for controls for bacteria commonly found in water systems in hospitals and health care centres including legionella bacteria which causes Legionnaires’ disease and has resulted in deaths in hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38638/06]
The health Bill 2006 will provide for the establishment of the Health Information and Quality Authority which will have responsibility for setting standards on safety and quality in relation to services provided under the Health Acts. The issue of control of notifiable diseases and such matters are dealt with under the provisions of the Health Act 1947 and the regulations made under that Act.
298 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if additional funding will be provided to a group (details supplied) in County Mayo in 2007 to ensure the continuation of its good works; and if funding will be provided for new services for this group. [38640/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
299 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding cleanliness and hygiene matters in hospitals here and on the strategies to end MRSA. [38646/06]
Infection prevention and control of Health Care Associated Infections (HCAIs), including MRSA, 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.
Strict infection control measures, together with improved hospital hygiene, are key actions for the control of the spread of HCAIs. The HSE has put in place a number of structures at local, regional and national levels to achieve this. Two National Hygiene Audits have been carried out in the last year in acute hospitals under the auspices of the National Hospitals Office of the HSE.
In addition, the implementation of the revised guidelines for the Strategy for Antimicrobial Resistance in Ireland, which includes recommendations on hospital hygiene practice, appropriate antibiotic prescribing, active surveillance for the detection of MRSA and corporate/clinical governance structures in the area of infection control, the "Clean Hands Campaign" and the development of national standards in relation to infection control and hospital hygiene are also aimed at addressing the challenges presented by HCAIs.
I am confident that hospital hygiene will continue to improve in view of the increased awareness and resolve within the HSE and the hospitals to attain the necessary high standards.
300 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will include under services to the elderly, massage therapy for senior citizens with severe pain problems in order to give them relief from their pain on a weekly or fortnightly basis. [38652/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
301 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the appeals mechanism in place in relation to the inspection process for privately owned child care facilities in County Mayo; if there is an independent inspectorate that will arbitrate complaints from private sector operators; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38666/06]
The Health Service Executive has statutory responsibility for the implementation of the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 and (Amendment) Regulations 1997, which give effect to the provisions of Part VII of the Child Care Act 1991 and provide for notification to, and inspection by the Health Service Executive of pre-school services. The Regulations apply to pre-schools, playgroups, day nurseries, crèches, childminders looking after more than three pre-school children (other than their own such children) in the childminders own home and other similar services which cater for children under six years of age.
Judgments as to whether a pre-school service is in compliance with the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 and (Amendment) Regulations 1997 are made on inspection by the pre-school services inspection teams of the Health Service Executive.
Both the appeals mechanism in place in relation to the inspection process for privately owned childcare facilities in County Mayo and the arbitration of complaints from private sector operators relate to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
302 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children the 20 hospitals where it is proposed to remove seven day 24 hour ambulance accident and emergency services. [38674/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter (case) investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
303 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if crowding comes within the 1985 guidelines of her Department in respect of orthodontic treatment; if she will confirm that it is universally accepted that severe crowding is one of the malocclusions dealt with in Category C under the 1985 guidelines; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38675/06]
The aim of my Department is to promote the development of the treatment capacity of orthodontics in a sustainable way over the longer term. Given the potential level of demand for orthodontic services, the provision of those services will continue to be based on prioritisation of cases based on treatment need — as happens under the existing guidelines. These guidelines were issued in 1985 and are intended to enable the Health Service Executive (HSE), to identify in a consistent way those in greatest need and to commence timely treatment for them.
The HSE has informed my Department that it has established an Orthodontic Review Group. The terms of reference for the Group are:
to review the recommendations of the Joint Oireachtas Committee Reports;
to examine the recommendations within the operational remit of the HSE and to establish their status;
to conduct an analysis of the HSE's existing orthodontic delivery structure and capacity. Based on that analysis, to make recommendations in that regard;
the recommendations thus made to be costed and a time-frame for their implementation proposed.
The Orthodontic Review Group will report on its findings, including the issue of orthodontic need raised by the Deputy, to the Chief Executive Officer of the HSE.
304 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children when the home care packages currently being assessed for County Mayo were received by the offices of the Health Services Executive western region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38679/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
305 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the options and services available to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; the assistance available to this person’s daughter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38688/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
306 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding the dermatology services in Ballina District Hospital, County Mayo; the plans for the service at the hospital for the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38691/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
307 Mr. English asked the Minister for Health and Children the funding available to stand alone autism units in secondary schools from her Department and agencies controlled by her Department; the details of the application process of these; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38732/06]
308 Mr. English asked the Minister for Health and Children the non-financial assistance and supports available to stand alone autism units in secondary schools from her Department and agencies controlled by her Department; the contact details for such supports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38733/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 307 and 308 together.
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.
309 Mr. English asked the Minister for Health and Children the financial supports available from her Department or other organisations to the Irish Osteoporosis Society; if her Department will provide necessary funding for this society. [38739/06]
The Irish Osteoporosis Society (IOS) received funding from the Health Service Executive of €130,000 in 2005. The IOS sought further funding of €128,000 during 2006. Following a series of meetings and checking of documentation, the HSE provided this amount to the IOS on the 22nd of September 2006.
The Health Service Executive has informed my Department that the IOS have not formally applied for further funding but have indicated they wish to. Representatives from the Population Health Directorate are scheduled to meet with the IOS on the 28th November to discuss funding.
310 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children the outcome of an appeal for nursing home subvention for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38939/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
312 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 receives a day care place; and the action she will take regarding the day care waiting lists. [38948/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
313 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the extent of compliance now and the steps underway to implement the recommendations of the Inspector of Mental Hospitals regarding current facilities at Cavan General Hospital and St. Davnet’s Hospital, Monaghan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38949/06]
Increased investment in mental health services has accelerated the move from institutionally provided services to community-based services and has provided for increases in the number of Consultant Psychiatrists in the public health service. The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled ‘A Vision for Change', was launched on 24th January 2006. This provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over the next 7 to 10 years. In 2006, a sum of €26.2 million has been allocated for the further development of our mental health services in line with ‘A Vision for Change'. This includes funding of €1.2 million to the National Office for Suicide Prevention for suicide prevention initiatives and research in accordance with "Reach Out", the National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
314 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Health and Children if a decision has been made to appoint a permanent breast cancer surgeon for Letterkenny General Hospital; if the appointed consultant will be based permanently in Letterkenny; when it is expected that the appointment will be made; the services being provided for breast cancer in Letterkenny pending the appointment of the full-time consultant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38950/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to respond directly to the Deputy in relation to the matter raised.
315 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Health and Children if arrangements have been finalised with the Northern Ireland Authorities to provide radiotherapy, particularly for Donegal patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38951/06]
Last Autumn, I agreed with the then Minister for Health for Northern Ireland that the radiation oncology centre at BCH would provide treatment for patients from Donegal. A Project Board was established under the aegis of Co-operation and Working Together (CAWT) to deliver on this commitment. It included representatives from BCH, Altnagelvin, Letterkenny, the HSE and both Departments.
At the last meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Council on 24 October 2006, it was announced that agreement has been reached for the referral of about 50 radiation oncology patients annually from Donegal to BCH. It has also been agreed that the number will be increased if there is sufficient demand from patients in Donegal. Patient pathways have been developed and the HSE and BCH have agreed the basis for costing the service provided by BCH. Three assessment clinics will be held each month on an ongoing basis. The first referral clinic took place on 8th November and the first patient has already been referred for treatment.
316 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Health and Children the maximum single enhanced nursing home subvention granted to date in 2006 in the Health Service Executive east, south and west areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38981/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
317 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive speech therapy in view of the fact that they will need regular speech therapy to enable them to continue living independently rather than needing full time care. [38996/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
318 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures which are being taken to develop a dedicated acute unit to cater for persons with intellectual disability and challenging behaviour in the Health Service Executive northern area as recommended in the Mental Health Commission Annual Report 2004. [39008/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
319 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the annual provision for investment in health care services for the elderly each year since 1997 to date in 2006; the improvements to existing services in that time; the additional services provided in that time; her plans to develop health care services for the elderly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39018/06]
In 1997, funding for services for older people under a range of expenditure headings was about €219 million.
Funding for additional services for older people including palliative care, was increased by the following amounts in the period 1998 to 2006.
|
1998 |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
€12.1m |
€21.1m |
€30.7m |
€66.1m |
€90.4m |
€10m |
€20m |
€15m |
€110m |
It must be emphasised that, in addition, the programme for older people would have received pay increases under national wage agreements, such as Sustaining Progress etc, or special pay claims. Where full account is taken of the above factors, the total estimated expenditure for 2006 is €1.2 billion, as published in the Revised Book of Estimates.
Examples of the improvements to services as a result of these increases include the Nursing Home Subvention Scheme which had its funding increased from €35.3 million in 1997 to €160 million in 2006. The additional €20 million allocated in Budget 2006 is to support more basic nursing home subventions and reduce waiting lists for enhanced subventions; it is also to bring more consistency to subventions support throughout the country.
Home Care Packages, which include the services of nurses, home helps and the various therapists including physio and occupational, did not exist in 1997. Funding of €30m was allocated to Home Care Packages in Budget '06 based on 1,100 pilot home care packages in place at the end of 2005. It was allocated to deliver a total of 2,000 additional Home Care Packages by end of 2006. The HSE has advised that 3,095 new clients were in receipt of Home Care Packages up to the end of September of this year.
Day/Respite Care services received an additional €9 million (€7m in 2006 and €2m in 2007) to provide about 1,325 extra places per week in such centres.
The Home Help Service received almost €120million in 2005 and an additional €33m was allocated to it in 2006 (€30m for 2006 and €3m for 2007). The additional funding is providing 1.75m additional hours.
Elder Abuse — In the period 2003-2005 approximately €2.5m additional funding was allocated to the programme to combat elder abuse. An additional €2 million was allocated in this year's Budget to facilitate the implementation of the full range of recommendations of the report ‘Protecting Our Future'. These include the development of a research function in this area and the appointment of Senior Case Workers. The Health Service Executive recently advertised these posts and it is expected that 27 Senior Case Workers and 4 Dedicated Elder Abuse Officers will be appointed by the end of the year.
Geriatricians — Since 1997, additional consultant geriatricians have been appointed with appropriate staff support. There are now 60 approved geriatrician posts.
It is the Department's policy to maintain older people in dignity and independence at home in accordance with their wishes, and at the same time to provide high quality residential care for older people when living at home is no longer possible. The Government's commitment to the development of a comprehensive range of services for older people has been clearly demonstrated by the significantly increased resources made available in recent years and outlined above.
The Government is currently considering new policy on Long Term Care and several principles underlying this were agreed with the social partners in "Towards 2016". These principles include, for example, that there should be one standardised national needs assessment for older people needing care. The use of community and home-based care should be maximised. Sheltered housing options will be encouraged. Where residential care is required, it should be quality care and there should be appropriate and equitable levels of co-payment by care recipients based on a national standardised financial assessment. The level of support for residential care should be indifferent as to whether that care is in a public or private facility. The financial model to support any new arrangements must also be financially sustainable. The Department is currently drawing up proposals for the Government's consideration based on the principles in "Towards 2016".
320 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the expected impact of an ageing population and greater life expectancy on the provision of health care; her plans to cope with same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39019/06]
Health Care for Older People will become increasingly important in the coming years due to an ageing population, coupled with increased life expectancy. It is against this background that the Government is currently considering new policy on Long Term Care and several principles underlying this were agreed with the social partners in "Towards 2016". These principles include, for example, that there should be one standardised national needs assessment for older people needing care. The use of community and home-based care should be maximised. Sheltered housing options will be encouraged. Where residential care is required, it should be quality care and there should be appropriate and equitable levels of co-payment by care recipients based on a national standardised financial assessment. The level of support for residential care should be indifferent as to whether that care is in a public or private facility. The financial model to support any new arrangements must also be financially sustainable.
The Department is currently drawing up proposals for the Government's consideration based on the principles in "Towards 2016".
321 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if there has been a change in designation of the respite care beds in a facility (details supplied) in County Mayo; if occasional respite care will still be provided as relief for people caring for relatives full time at home; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39027/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
322 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to the constitutional ultra vires problems Ireland has with the proposed new intercountry adoption agreement being negotiated with Belarus (details supplied). [39028/06]
The examination of the draft protocol agreement with Belarus has raised a number of constitutional and legal concerns. The Department is currently attempting to find ways to resolve these issues with the mutual agreement of both parties.
The difficulties in attempting to satisfy both the Belarusian authorities' requirements and the legal and constitutional imperatives that apply in this jurisdiction are currently being worked through.
It is very difficult to be specific regarding a timescale for the conclusion of these negotiations but I can confirm that the Department is treating this matter as a priority.
323 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason smear tests that were done in March 2006 are only now being processed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39058/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to respond directly to the Deputy in relation to the matter raised.
324 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the Commission of Inquiry which was set up by the Western Health Board in April 1999 to enquire into allegations of abuse (details supplied); the reason this Commission of Inquiry has not presented a report to the Health Service Executive; the personnel seconded from the then Western Health Board to act on this inquiry; if the inquiry team was engaged full-time on this inquiry; the cost of the inquiry to date; when is a report expected; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39059/06]
I am advised that an inquiry into allegations of abuse by former residents of the Brothers of Charity Services in the former Western Health Board area was commenced in April 1999 by that Health Board. I understand from the Health Service Executive that in September, 2005 it commenced a review of the inquiry process with a view to ensuring that the process will be completed at the earliest possible date. This review is ongoing at the present time.
I am concerned about the length of time which has elapsed since the initial inquiry commenced and I have asked the Health Service Executive to make the necessary arrangements to ensure that it is completed as a matter of urgency and to indicate their proposals on the matter.
325 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children the findings made by the working group that was established to resolve the problem of duplication in the Dublin region between the two ambulance services; and her plans to progress the issue to a conclusion. [39060/06]
Emergency ambulance services in the greater Dublin area are provided by both the Health Service Executive (HSE) and Dublin City Council through Dublin Fire Brigade. The HSE has advised that the review of Command and Control arrangements, referred to by the Deputy, has been undertaken by a group comprising of representatives from the HSE and Dublin City Council. My Department is advised that the report of the Review Group is at an advanced stage and will be completed shortly. The HSE has advised that the Review Group met with the various staff representations on several occasions in the course of its work. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the HSE to have a more detailed reply issued directly to the Deputy on this matter.
326 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of crisis nurses at accident and emergency departments in the health service. [39090/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issue raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
327 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the level of finance allocated to the Mental Health Commission which was not spent in 2005; and the areas where these measures were reallocated. [39091/06]
The Mental Health Commission was allocated €15.5 million in 2005. The total spending by the Commission in 2005 was €5.98 million. The saving of approximately €9.5 million arose because the mental health tribunals under the Mental Health Act 2001 have been incurring costs only since 1 November this year. In accordance with public financial procedures the unspent monies were surrendered as a surplus to the Exchequer.
328 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons working in the individual suicide resource offices in each Health Service Executive region. [39092/06]
329 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of permanent suicide resource officers and temporary suicide officers by secondment from areas of the health service. [39093/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 328 and 329 together.
The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled ‘A Vision for Change', was launched on 24 January 2006. This provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over the next 7 to 10 years. In 2006, a sum of €25 million has been allocated for the further development of our mental health services in line with ‘A Vision for Change'.
An additional €1.2 million was provided in 2006 to the National Office for Suicide Prevention specifically for suicide prevention initiatives and research. The Office was established by the Health Service Executive in 2005. It is responsible for the implementation of "Reach Out", the National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention and provides support to groups and organisations for their work in the development of suicide prevention initiatives.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
330 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures being taken to develop a dedicated acute unit to cater for persons with intellectual disability and challenging behaviour in the Health Service Executive northern area as recommended in the Mental Health Commission Annual Report 2005. [39094/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
331 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures she is taking in relation to the sale of land at St. Ita’s Hospital and St. Brendan’s Hospital. [39095/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
332 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures being taken to make capital investment available in the Health Service Executive northern area in order that appropriate community facilities will be provided for patients as recommended in the Mental Health Commission Annual Report 2004. [39096/06]
Increased investment in mental health services has accelerated the move from institutionally provided services to community-based services and has provided for increases in the number of Consultant Psychiatrists in the public health service. The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled ‘A Vision for Change', was launched on 24th January 2006. This provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over the next 7 to 10 years. In 2006, a sum of €26.2 million has been allocated for the further development of our mental health services in line with ‘A Vision for Change'. This includes funding of €1.2 million to the National Office for Suicide Prevention for suicide prevention initiatives and research in accordance with "Reach Out", the National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
333 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will expedite the renewal of a medical card for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny. [39104/06]
Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of General Practitioner (GP) services. In 2005 the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP.
Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29% and in addition allowance is now made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, childcare and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed with the Health Service Executive a further adjustment to the assessment guidelines for GP visit cards and these are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
334 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress of the review of expenditure on demand led schemes such as the drug payment scheme; the implications of same for services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39105/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
336 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will increase the level of funding provided to mental health services in her 2007 budget in view of the dramatic decrease, proportionate to overall budget, in funding for such services seen in recent years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39157/06]
Increased investment in mental health services has accelerated the move from institutionally provided services to community-based services and has provided for increases in the number of consultant psychiatrists in the public health service. The report of the expert group on mental health policy, entitled ‘A Vision for Change', was launched on 24th January 2006. This provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over the next 7 to 10 years. In 2006, a sum of €26.2 million has been allocated for the further development of our mental health services in line with ‘A Vision for Change'. This includes €1.2 million provided to the National Office for Suicide Prevention for initiatives and research in accordance with "Reach Out", The National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention.
The Deputy will appreciate that I cannot at this stage give specific commitments in relation to the level of expenditure in 2007 as the budgetary allocation for mental health services has yet to be determined.
338 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will clarify her statement and name the 26 hospitals that will lose there doctor led accident and emergency services in June 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39211/06]
I did not make such a statement, and there are no proposals to withdraw medical services in June 2007 from 26 accident and emergency departments. The policy of the Government is to ensure the provision of safe, high-quality services that achieve the best possible outcomes for patients. Patient safety and quality must be paramount and must be the key drivers in configuring acute hospital services, including accident and emergency services. This will mean that those services that can be safely delivered locally are delivered locally and that more complex services that require specialist input are concentrated at regional centres, or, in the case of highly specialised services, in national centres of excellence. This approach is consistent with international best practice for the optimum delivery of patient care.
339 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will assist in the progress of an application by a person (details supplied) in County Donegal, for heating and two doors under the special housing aid for the elderly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39212/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive (HSE) under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The HSE's responsibility includes the operation of the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
340 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the timetable for the decentralisation of his Department to Cavan town; if a site has been obtained for the decentralised staff; the plans there are for an advanced party to be decentralised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38704/06]
The Decentralisation Implementation Group (DIG) has set out that my Department's move to Cavan is scheduled to take place at the end of 2009 and arrangements to have staff in place and operational in line with that schedule will continue to be progressed.
The acquisition of sites and property for decentralisation is a matter for the Office of Public Works (OPW). Interaction with OPW on these elements is well established in my Department, informed by site visits and a thorough ongoing consultative process. In that regard I am happy to confirm that OPW has acquired a landmark site on the Farnham Road in Cavan Town to facilitate the decentralisation project. My Department has already provided an outline specification of our accommodation requirements to OPW and is currently preparing a detailed brief in this regard.
I am also happy to inform the Deputy that I formally opened new offices in Cavan town last month to facilitate the first phase of an advance party of our staff. This first phase involves 20 staff and preparations are well advanced for a second phase advance of an extra 10 staff. A further advance phase is also being actively considered.
341 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the likelihood of 100% broadband availability throughout the country within a reasonable time on the basis of present performance; if he will identify and examine the options available and the action he will take to prevent the availability, standards and quality of the services here from falling further behind those available in competing economies; if he will issue instructions or directives in this regard in the near future with a view to achieving a rapid provision of broadband services by whatever means at the earliest possible date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39111/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the NDP 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises.
The Department also offered funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
342 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in relation to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38477/06]
The last and final grant payment for the Decommissioning of the vessel named "Sea Queen" was paid by BIM to the beneficiary on 20th October 2006. A letter dated 7/11/2006 was sent by the beneficiary to BIM confirming their receipt of the cheque.
343 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when the assessment of proposals under the biofuels mineral oil tax relief scheme will be completed; when the successful applicants will be notified (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38518/06]
There were a significant number of applications received under the Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Scheme II. All applications received by the closing date for the scheme are currently being assessed by an assessment panel set up by my Department. Following the assessment process recommendations will be made to the Minister for Finance in line with Section 81 of the Finance Act 2006.
344 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals to provide the necessary finance for urgently needed coastal protection work at Ballyvoile, Dungarvan, Co Waterford (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38560/06]
Responsibility for coastal protection rests with the property owner whether it be a local authority or a private individual.
In 2001 my Department provided funding of €31,484.01 to Waterford County Council towards a study of road protection works at Ballyvoile at a total cost of €41,978.67. In July 2002 the Department requested all coastal local authorities to submit proposals, in order of priority, for consideration in the context of the 2003-2006 National Coast Protection Programmes. Waterford County Council submitted proposals for Phase 1 cliff stabilisation works at Ballyvoile at an estimated cost of €1.1 million and was number two in the Council's order of priority. They also submitted a proposal for Phase 2 works at Ballyvoile at an estimated cost of €930,000 which was the Council's number seven priority. There was no Exchequer funding available for this project to date.
The question of providing Exchequer funding for works at Ballyvoile in future years will depend on the amount of funding available for coast protection works generally and overall national priorities. There is no Exchequer funding available for the protection of private property.
345 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the inquiry which this Deputy made to him regarding a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38689/06]
Under the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003, the functions of sea-fishing boat licensing and registration were transferred from the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources to the Licensing Authority for Sea-Fishing Boats, which operates on an independent basis subject to criteria set out in the Act and Ministerial Policy Directives. All applications for sea-fishing boat licences are considered by the Licensing Authority for Sea-Fishing Boats. The head of the Licensing Authority is the Registrar General of Fishing Boats who is a senior official in the Department.
Minister Browne's reply to your letter of 6 June 2006 issued to you at Dáil Éireann on 28 June 2006. The reply enclosed a copy of the Licensing Authority's letter of 30 May 2006 that issued to Mr. Marsden concerning his application for a sea-fishing boat licence in respect of the MFV ‘Freebird' and in particular to his proposal to use the capacity of the MFV ‘Atlantic Drift' and the MFV ‘Iron Eagle' as part of the replacement capacity for the purposes of licensing the new vessel. The Licensing Authority has advised me that it is not empowered to vary the requirements of Ministerial Policy Directive 2/2003 by granting an extension to the two-year validity of off-register capacity unless there was a delay on the part of the Licensing Authority in the licensing process, which had the effect of denying Mr. Marsden his entitlement provided by the Policy Directive. The Licensing Authority states that it cannot take into consideration the delay suffered by Mr. Marsden due to mechanical problems in respect of the construction of the MFV ‘Freebird'. This is a matter that is outside the control of the Licensing Authority. Mr. Marsden has lodged an appeal to the Appeals Officer under the Independent Appeals System provided by Part 3 of the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003, which is awaiting determination.
I am advised that Mr. Marsden requested an extension to the one-year period of the licence offer on 13 October 2006. The Licensing Authority advised him on 26 October 2006 that any decision in this regard must stand suspended under section 7(8) of the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003 until the appeal is determined. The Licensing Authority has undertaken to consider this request after the determination of the appeal. Mr. Marsden has also requested the Licensing Authority to regularise the registration of his older vessel the MFV ‘Lady Jan' as he wishes to use the capacity from this vessel as part replacement capacity for the MFV ‘Freebird'. I am informed that the I am advised that Mr. Marsden requested an extension to the one-year period of the licence offer on 13 October 2006. The Licensing Authority advised him on 26 October 2006 that any decision in this regard must stand suspended under section 7(8) of the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003 until the appeal is determined. The Licensing Authority has undertaken to consider this request after the determination of the appeal. Mr. Marsden has also requested the Licensing Authority to regularise the registration of his older vessel the MFV ‘Lady Jan' as he wishes to use the capacity from this vessel as part replacement capacity for the MFV ‘Freebird'. I am informed that the Licensing Authority is currently in the process of dealing with this matter.
346 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the full terms of reference, composition, date of establishment and the proposed time frames for the report of the High Level Group on Sea Lice Monitoring and Control referred to in his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 161 of 2 November 2006. [38718/06]
The High Level group established by my Department to examine issues relating to sea lice monitoring and control has met on a number of occasions. The Group is currently chaired by the Secretary General of the Department. It consists of representatives of the Department, the Marine Institute, Bord Iascaigh Mhara, the Central Fisheries Board, the Western Regional Fisheries Board and the Northern Regional Fisheries Board.
The Terms of Reference for the Group are "to review, in light of experience, the operation of systems and processes for controlling sea lice levels at marine finfish farms, to identify any necessary changes and set out an action plan with specific timeframes for implementation of such changes".
The next meeting of the Group is scheduled to take place on 30 November 2006, at which a draft interim report will be given initial examination.
347 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has examined the Price Waterhouse report and analysis of petroleum exploration terms in Ireland, UK, Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands; if he will incorporate parts of the report in future exploration and licensing policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38864/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question Number 166 of today.
348 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is satisfied that all former Smart Telecom customers have been provided with alternative and satisfactory service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38865/06]
353 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of subscribers whose broadband and telephone service was disconnected in the course of the dispute between Eircom and Smart Telecom; if all such subscribers have been reconnected with full service in respect of both broadband and telephone; the number of reconnections undertaken by Eircom and other service providers; if provision is being made to prevent a recurrence of the outage and inconvenience to customers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38870/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 348 and 353 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 94 of today.
349 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options to generate competition in the electricity industry with particular reference to the need to deliver the benefits of competition to the consumer in the form of reduced energy costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38866/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 139 of today.
350 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the role he intends for the ESB in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38867/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 107 of today. The position remains unchanged.
351 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if it is intended in the context of the Broadcasting Bill to provide for subtitling with a view to meeting the requirements of persons with hearing deficiencies. [38868/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 118 of today.
352 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has had discussions with oil, gas or other exploration companies with a view to identification of a new licensing regime that would meet all requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38869/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 100 of today.
354 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to provide cutting edge telecommunications technology in all areas throughout the country, urban and rural; if he has had discussions with interested parties with a view to expanding, extending and improving the service and its availability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38871/06]
I meet with industry and interested parties on a regular basis in pursuit of my objective to facilitate the widespread availability of competitively priced broadband in Ireland. The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the NDP 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises.
The Department also offered funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
355 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he proposes to implement the recommendations of the Dingle Report with particular reference to the optimisation of communications infrastructure available throughout the country with a view to ensuring competition and delivery of a high quality service to consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38873/06]
In April 2005 a team of advisors was engaged to examine the potential for enhancing and augmenting existing state owned infrastructure. This team submitted a Feasibility Report in December 2005. The report found that, while technically feasible, there would be considerable financial, legal, regulatory, operational and organisational challenges in harnessing and enhancing the existing state owned infrastructures. It is not my intention to publish the report given the extent of the commercially sensitive information contained in it. My Department is considering options to enhance competitive backhaul connectivity.
356 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans, either directly or through the Regulator, to accelerate the delivery of broadband to all areas throughout the country within a short time, having particular regard to the progress in Northern Ireland and the UK; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38874/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers. However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the NDP 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) will allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises.
The Department also offered funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
357 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if is satisfied that the programme for the delivery of broadband services throughout the country is expected to deliver maximum availability and take up in the shortest possible time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38875/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers. However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the NDP 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) will allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises.
The Department also offered funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area. Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
358 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if is satisfied that deregulation in the Irish context is sufficiently focused to ensure the delivery of the full scale of modern telecommunication services including broadband and mobile telephony to all areas of the country; if an adequate degree of competition exists to ensure that the rights and entitlements of subscribers are fully observed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38876/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 132 of today.
359 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the full extent of the BT proposals in regard to the provision and facilitation of broadband throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38877/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market regulated, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. Private sector companies' investment proposals are matters for those companies. I have no function in this matter.
360 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, arising from a Sunday newspaper article his attention has been drawn to an alleged request from Eircom for the upgrading of a number of telephone lines which currently render it impossible to obtain broadband in some rural areas due to the use of shared or divided lines which were installed in the 1980s; if as suggested, funding to the extent of €200 million has been sought from the State to facilitate such an upgrade; the full extent of such enquiries or discussions including the alternatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38878/06]
I am aware that Eircom has highlighted the infrastructure enhancements required in order to provide broadband services throughout its network. I also recognise that despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
361 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his policy preferences in respect of the development of terrestrial television transmissions in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38879/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 127 of today.
362 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options of the development of digital television; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38880/06]
I refer the Deputy to Question No. 127 of today.
363 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options in respect of his anticipated review of the exploration licensing regime in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38881/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 100 of today.
364 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will ensure in the context of a future review of oil, gas or other mineral exploration licences, that such regime is pitched in such a way as to encourage exploration and at the same time be seen to give a fair, adequate and transparent return to the taxpayer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38882/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 100 of today.
365 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the nature of discussions he has had within his Department or with the exploration sector within the context of the review he has suggested of the exploration licensing regime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38883/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 100 of today.
369 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in the context of the future development of postal and packaging services here and notwithstanding his previous references to postal services in European countries, he will have due regard for the topographic and geographic nature of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38887/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 110 of today.
370 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has issued policy directives through An Post, directly or through the Regulator, in regard to the future development of the postal and packaging services throughout the country having due regard for compliance with EU directives, the retention of a nationwide efficient and cost effective postal service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38888/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 88 of today.
371 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the deficiencies in the postal delivery services which appear to affect specific areas; if he has issued instructions or had discussions with the Regulator or An Post with a view to identification of the underlying cause or causes of such deficiencies in the service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38889/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 157 of today.
372 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if An Post has achieved sufficiently high following day delivery throughout the service; if he proposes to take policy decisions to ensure a delivery service in keeping with best practice worldwide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38890/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 134 of today.
373 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of post offices that have been closed or downgraded in the past five years; the number of new offices opened or upgraded in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38891/06]
I refer the deputy to my reply to Question No. 103 of today.
374 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his policy in regard to the future of An Post and the retention of the maximum number of upgraded post offices throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38892/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 81 of today.
375 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options for the retention of the maximum scale of services to An Post with particular reference to ensure the viability of the company and deregulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38893/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 181 of today.
376 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that in other EU jurisdictions, deregulation and competition in the area of gas and electricity supply is to the advantage of the consumer in contrast to the situation here, whereby it appears that the EU law transposed into domestic law has resulted in price increases which will have an impact on the domestic consumer and consequences for the manufacturing and services industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38894/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 120 of today.
377 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he proposes to take action of a legislative nature or otherwise to intervene on behalf of the consumer with a view to delivering the benefits of lower international oil and gas prices to the domestic and business section here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38895/06]
390 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is satisfied that the regulatory system as transposed into Irish law is capable of giving Irish consumers the benefit of lower oil and gas prices on international markets; if he will take action to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38913/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 377 and 390 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 119 of today.
378 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the degree to which the digital hub is achieving its targets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38896/06]
The Digital Hub Development Agency has entered into a 3 year Performance Contract with my own Department that commits it to specific targets.
The targets to be achieved during the 3 year period commencing 1st April 2006 are outlined in four specific areas namely: property; enterprise development; community and learning programmes; and organisational performance. These targets will be reviewed annually beginning in April 2007.
379 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if all religious broadcasts from the various churches here which were discontinued on the FM service have been fully restored on an alternative frequency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38897/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 142 of today.
380 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the cost of postcodes; the degree of implementation; and the benefit to consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38899/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 112 of today.
381 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in regard to the separation of TG4 from RTÉ; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38900/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 77 of today.
382 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he is satisfied that sufficient generating capacity exists to ensure the continuity of supply and the integrity of Eirgrid for the foreseeable future; if sufficient surplus supply exists to cater for all eventualities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38901/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 137 of today.
383 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources further to Parliamentary Question No. 148 of 9 November 2006, the options being considered to ensure full connectivity of broadband, telephone and mobile phone services to those parts of the country, such as the Black Valley, County Kerry which do not have access to a reliable and quality service; the groups, bodies, agencies or individuals with whom he is having discussions; when he expects to reach a conclusion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38902/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, telephone and mobile phone services is a matter in the first instance, for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), the independent regulator.
As regards the deployment of broadband infrastructure, it has been clear for some time that the sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. My aim is to see a situation where every reasonable request for broadband will be met at a reasonable price. I expect to finalise my proposals shortly.
384 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects all telephone exchanges and cable networks to be broadband enabled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38904/06]
I have no function in these matters.
385 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the lessons which can be learned from the most recent power blackout throughout Europe; the steps that can be taken to prevent such an occurrence here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38905/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 89 of today.
386 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects 100% broadband availability will be achieved here; if specific steps are required to achieve this target; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38906/06]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of Government is to implement regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of affordable, high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
However, it has been clear for some time that the private sector has failed to invest at the level necessary to keep pace with the demand for broadband. Direct funding has already been provided under the NDP 2000-2006 for the provision of backbone infrastructure and to upgrade local access infrastructure. My Department's regional broadband programme is addressing the infrastructure deficit by building high-speed open access broadband networks, in association with the local and regional authorities, in the major towns and cities. These Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) will allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. The networks also offer towns opportunities to attract inward investment in advanced technology and knowledge based enterprises.
The Department also offered funding assistance for smaller towns and rural communities through the Group Broadband Scheme. The scheme is technology-neutral, allowing the community to select the most suitable broadband delivery platform for the area.
Despite private and public investment in broadband infrastructure 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 these gaps in broadband coverage are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
387 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to alleviate interference with television or radio reception caused by mass turbines or other structures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38907/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 173 of today.
388 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects to extend the broadcasting and transmission of RTÉ radio and television to neighbouring jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38910/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 170 of today.
391 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the full extent of the GSI with particular reference to the extent to which modern technology has been used to update the information; if he will restore the GSI Bill to the Order Paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38914/06]
I refer the Deputy to Question No. 84 of today.
392 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans for the future of Bord Na Móna and the role he expects the company to fulfil in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38915/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 140 of today.
393 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the further discussions he has had with State or semi-State bodies such as ESB, Bord na Móna, Iarnród Éireann and others in regard to the previously reported proposal to provide a State controlled telecommunications network to facilitate the advanced of broadband and state of the art telecommunications technology in general; if costings have been undertaken on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38916/06]
In April 2005 a team of advisors was engaged to examine the potential for enhancing and augmenting existing state owned infrastructure. This team submitted a Feasibility Report in December 2005. The report found that, while technically feasible, there would be considerable financial, legal, regulatory, operational and organisational challenges in harnessing and enhancing the existing state owned infrastructures. It is not my intention to publish the report given the extent of the commercially sensitive information contained in it. My Department is considering options to enhance competitive backhaul connectivity.
394 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options for the incentivisation of alternative energy production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38918/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 101 of today.
395 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason the Postal Services Miscellaneous Provisions Bill was withdrawn; if it is intended to replace it with alternative legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38919/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 160 of today.
396 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which an evaluation has been carried out of the use of bio-diesel for domestic heating purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38921/06]
399 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options in respect of the development of the alternative energy sector with particular reference to the need to generate adequate import substitution to assist in safeguarding security of supply and meeting the Kyoto principles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38926/06]
400 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has examined the various options available in terms of bio-fuels with particular reference to the growing of energy crops; the extent to which any one of the alternatives is most attractive in terms of meeting the requirements and cost effectiveness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38927/06]
401 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has examined the merit of introducing further incentives to promote the production of energy crops as an alternative to the payment of fines for failure to comply with Kyoto; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38928/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 396 and 399 to 401, inclusive, together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to QuestionNo. 82 of today.
397 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if it is intended to provide ore or two interconnectors; if this is expected to happen by way of public or private enterprise or a combination of both; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38923/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 114 of today.
398 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the noticeable divergence or energy prices here with those in neighbouring and competing countries; if he will take action to review the relevant EU legislation with the objective of delivering the benefits of completion to the Irish consumer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38925/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 120 of today.
402 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the expected timeline for the execution of dredging work and the building of a breakwater at Buncrana Harbour; and the number of rescue operations that have been hindered or retarded due to the silt build-up in the harbour over the past two years. [38930/06]
Buncrana Harbour is owned by Donegal County Council and responsibility for its maintenance and development rests with the local authority in the first instance. The Council submitted an application to the Department for funding to construct a breakwater to prevent siltation at the ferry slipway and a proposed boat harbour south of the existing pier. The proposed development would include an RNLI berth with 24 hour unrestricted tidal access in the boat harbour. Earlier this year funding of €300,000 was approved to initiate the construction of the breakwater at Buncrana. 75% of this funding will be made available via a grant from the Department while Donegal County Council will provide the remaining 25%. My Department gave approval in March 2004, subject to the resolution of an issue over rental charges, for a foreshore lease to allow construction of a marina and associated works at Buncrana and a foreshore licence to allow dredging to take place.
Discussions have taken place between my Department and the Council regarding the issue of rental charges in respect of the proposed works. The Council has requested a reduction of the charges in question, as the facility would be used by the RNLI. The Department of Finance has advised that if the proposed works are being done primarily at the behest of the RNLI and are of benefit to no other party, a good case could be made to waive the rental charges on the basis of Sections 2 and 3 of the Foreshore Act. Accordingly, the Department of Finance has agreed to give consideration to a full waiver of the charges if the Council can confirm that the facility is being constructed solely for the use of the RNLI.
In addition, if this confirmation is not possible, the Department of Finance has agreed to consider a pro-rata reduction of the charges on foot of quantification by the Council of the ratio of benefits to the RNLI and to others. The full details were conveyed by my Department to the Council on 25th October 2006. As soon as the information requested is received from the County Council my Department will be in a position to progress the matter as a priority.
Separately, The Council has proposed to carry out maintenance dredging to deal with ongoing siltation in the harbour and an application from the Council for a Dumping at Sea Permit was received by my Department on 23rd October. This application has been circulated to the normal range of necessary consultees for observations. My Department is aware of concerns expressed by the RNLI regarding possible difficulties launching their lifeboat due to siltation in the Harbour. Accordingly, my Department regards the application as urgent and every effort is being made to expedite the consultation process.
403 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the levels of non-ionising radiation that are internationally recognised as being injurious to health arising from mobile phones and masts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38965/06]
404 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the areas where there is a risk of exposures to levels of electromagnetic emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38966/06]
405 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the monitoring, checks and balances that are in his Department in order to assess the levels that the general public are subject to electromagnetic emissions from licensed telecommunication operators; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38967/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 403 to 405, inclusive, together.
Ireland has adopted European Union Council Recommendation of 12th July, 1999 on "the limitation of exposure of the general public to electromagnetic fields (0 Hz to 300 GHz)", (1999/519/EC) and the guidelines established by the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection (ICNIRP).
Through a process of scientific review, including the leading international scientific and medical experts, ICNIRP have set these limits as those at which no adverse health effects can be found. For exposures to the general public these limits include an additional safety factor of a 50 fold reduction.
For efficient and effective networks, the signals must be present at all locations. I must stress however, that the international scientific and medical consensus is that no adverse health effects have been demonstrated to have been caused by electromagnetic fields, such as those emitted by mobile phones and telecommunication masts below the limits developed by ICNIRP.
In Ireland this limits are enforced for mobile and other telecommunications services, as appropriate, by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), which audits approximately 100 sites annually. In 2003 and 2004 ComReg conducted, in liaison with my Department, an audit of 401 sites. I can state that no site audited to date has been found to breach the limits. Indeed, measurements are typically less than a thousandth of the limits. To date over 12% of sites nationwide have been audited.
406 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress of renewable energy projects issues under consideration by his Department with regard to renewable energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38969/06]
Ireland has a target to treble the contribution from renewable energy sources in electricity production from 5% approximately to 15% by 2010. The target approximates to 1650 megawatts of generating plant. There is currently 940MW of renewable powered electricity capacity connected. This consists of approximately 670MWs of wind-powered plant, 236MW of hydro powered plant with the balance (c. 34MWs) made up of different biomass technologies. The additional new capacity required to achieve the target will be delivered by projects already selected under the AER VI competition and the new Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) programme.
On 29th September I announced the first tranche of support under REFIT to over fifty new renewable powered electricity generating plants. The combined capacity of these projects is over 600 megawatts (MW), with wind-power accounting for most of the new support. REFIT allows project developers to negotiate long term fixed price contracts in the wholesale electricity market. On the back of these contracts investors will release the necessary capital. Developers are currently completing the financial and logistical preparation necessary in order to have their projects constructed and producing electricity. Full details of the REFIT programme and the successful applicants are available on my Departments website at www.dcmnr.ie.
407 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the benefits or otherwise to the consumer arising from competition in the telecoms sector here; the measures in place to allow consumers to easily change from one service provider to another; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38970/06]
The telecoms market in Ireland is fully liberalised and open and the provision of telecommunications services is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies. Statutory responsibility for the regulation of this sector rests with the independent regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), under the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the Regulations transposing the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications Networks and Services.
One of ComReg's key objectives is the promotion of competition and the interests of users in the sector. The advantages of an open and liberalised market and competition include increased choice of operators, products and services, flexibility and benefits in terms of prices. Changing from one service provider to another is a contractual matter between the customer and the service provider concerned.
408 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the status of the project for the redevelopment of Dunmore East Harbour in County Waterford which is expected to cost in the region of €50 million; if funding will be provided for the project by his Department; when funding will be made available; the planned commencement and completion dates for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39047/06]
Following a lengthy public consultation process in 2004 on development options for Dunmore East Harbour, a planning application for a harbour development, together with an environmental impact statement, were prepared and submitted to Waterford County Council. Planning permission for the development of the Fishery Harbour Centre was received in late 2005.
The cost of providing the new harbour facility is estimated at between €50 and €60 million depending on final scheme selection and tendering. In 2006, €300,000 is provided for further design and €300,000 for site investigation to progress the development. The project is currently at detailed design stage. The final Phase 3 marine site investigation commenced in July this year and is approximately 50% complete to date. The remainder of the site investigation will be completed during Spring/Summer 2007. A contract has been awarded for hydrographic survey work, which is likely to be completed by the end of 2006, subject to weather. Tender documents are currently being prepared for a Cost Benefit Analysis.
A decision on funding of this project will be made in due course in accordance with the guidelines for Appraisal and Management of Capital Expenditure Proposals in the Public Sector, taking into account the amount of funding made available for fishery harbours, with particular reference to the National Development Plan 2007–2013 and overall national priorities.
409 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason, on the basis of scientific evidence available to him, no spatfall occurred in Killary Harbour in 2006; if his attention has been drawn to the serious implications of this for mussel farming in the bay; if his attention has further been drawn to the incidence of no spatfall in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39186/06]
410 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the tonnage of mussel harvested in Killary Harbour for each of the past ten years; the average undersize of mussel and extent of undersize mussel each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39188/06]
411 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the value of mussel harvests in Killary Harbour for each of the past ten years; the main markets for harvested mussels from Killary Harbour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39189/06]
412 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in respect of the co-ordinator to the local aquaculture management systems, he is satisfied that this system operates to best benefit in the case of Killary Harbour; if his attention has been drawn to a proposal put forward by a group of sixteen licensed mussel farmers in Killary Harbour that in order for the CLAMS system to operate to best benefit, he should appoint an independent, skilled and experienced mediator who could hear submissions from all mussel farmers involved and prepare fair but inclusive proposals for working agreements for the future in view of the different business perspectives that exist among licensed mussel holders in the harbour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39190/06]
413 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his projections for mussel harvesting in respect of Killary Harbour for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39191/06]
415 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent of phyto-plankton entering Killary Harbour on the basis of scientific evidence and analysis available to him; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that mussel growth to maturity has slowed from 18 months to 36 months on many of the mussel fields licensed for that purpose; his views on whether this is mainly due to lack of phyto-plankton for mussel spat for growth; if he will comment on the seriousness of the situation arising from the lack of phyto-plankton in Killary Harbour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39193/06]
416 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will instruct a scientific based report to be carried out on the potential for mussel farming in Killary Harbour over the next five years; if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties currently being incurred in growing mussel stock to maturity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39194/06]
417 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has received a request for a meeting with him from licensed holders in Killary Harbour who request that in order for the CLAMS system to operate to best benefit, that an experienced and capable mediator be appointed to bring the CLAMS system to its best operational standard in view of the different business perspectives that exist within the bay; when he proposes to arrange and agree such a meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39195/06]
419 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the compensation paid in 2001 in respect of natural disruptions to aquaculture and mussel farming in Killary Harbour; the levels of payment made to each licensed holder; the reason no licensed mussel holder from County Mayo received compensation; if the farmers involved from County Mayo lodged applications; if they were informed of such a compensation scheme being available and the appropriate dates for application for such compensation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39197/06]
420 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals to deal with the provision of spat for mussel growing to licensed mussel farmers in Killary Harbour in view of the failure and non-spatfall in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39198/06]
421 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his projected tonnage at best capacity for mussel growth in Killary Harbour for the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39199/06]
422 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of occasions that BIM officials have visited Killary Harbour and have interviewed all active mussel farmers in the bay in respect of their standard of work, quality of product and marketing techniques; the proposals he has to further enhance mussel product from Killary Harbour for the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39200/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 409 to 413, inclusive, 415 to 417, inclusive, and 419 to 422, inclusive, together.
The Co-ordinated Local Aquaculture Management Systems (CLAMS) process is a nationwide initiative, to facilitate the management and the development of aquaculture, by local stakeholders, in bays and inshore waters throughout Ireland. BIM provide assistance to individual CLAMS groups to support them in their role. I am fully supportive of the CLAMS initiatives around the coast, which are a valuable tool in the local management of aquaculture. As the CLAMS are local management structures, the proposals referred to by the Deputy, are a matter for the Killary CLAMS group.
Mussel cultivation has emerged as one of the most valuable sectors of the aquaculture industry in recent years. In order to ensure the continued success and sustainability of the sector, it is necessary that the capabilities of our bays for shellfish aquaculture be established. This is why I have instructed BIM, through the Aquaculture Forum, to undertake Carrying Capacity studies in the main shellfish growing bays around the coast. Killary harbour has been prioritised as one of the pilot locations for this undertaking. This work will identify the obstacles at local level (such as the availability of phyto-plankton and crop density levels) that may be impacting on mussel farming in this bay and provide a practical and scientific basis for recommendations on how they should be tackled. It is not possible to make an accurate projection for the "best capacity" output from Killary for the next five years on the basis of current information. The findings of the pilot carrying capacity study should help inform future planning.
The question of the availability/occurrence of mussel spat is a wider question and is an issue faced by operators nationally. Mussel seed is a naturally occurring, wild resource which is also transient and unpredictable. While considerable research has been carried out by the Marine Institute into mussel seed, much remains to be done before a greater understanding has been achieved of the life cycle of the mussel and before it would be at all possible to predict its occurrence. For these reasons, it is critical to manage fishing for mussel seed so as to protect against over exploitation of the resource. The success of mussel spat collection for farming, in a given season, is dependent on many factors including; timing of deployment of collectors, tidal conditions, weather patterns, and salinity. All of these parameters can affect the distribution of mussel larvae in a bay, which in turn can affect settlement. The failure of the spat collection effort experienced by the farmers in Killary Harbour in 2006 is I am advised, purely a natural phenomenon, which has occurred in the past both in Killary and elsewhere from time to time. There are strategies that the Killary farmers can pursue to mitigate the 2006 spat failure such as buying in seed from producers in other bays, collecting rock seed and grading and thinning their existing stocks and then repacking the small mussels to boost output. I would urge the Killary farmers to engage with their local BIM area officer and with their CLAMS group with a view towards developing a cooperative strategy to deal with this challenge.
I am aware that certain operators have been experiencing a slow-down in the rate of growth of their crops in recent times. The issue of improving growth rates for all of the mussel farmers in Killary is a complicated one. Not only does it depend on the amount of phytoplankton in the bay but also on nutrients from other sources such as fresh water runoff into the lough. In addition the number and positioning of longlines in a bay as well as the stocking density used on those lines and the method of cultivation are also crucial factors. I am aware through the work of the Killary and other CLAMS groups that BIM has been working with farmers to demonstrate the benefit of changing husbandry practices and reducing the density of mussels on particular longlines thus improving growth rates. The outcome of the pilot carrying capacity study in Killary should provide important information to inform future arrangements.
During the last three months of 2005, as part of a major review of the rope mussel sector, BIM staff visited all the significant rope mussel production areas in the country, including Killary, and in each area most (but not all) of the individual farms were visited. Very detailed data was collected in each area for comparison purposes and much of the analysis of this data was showcased at the recent rope mussel workshop held in Bantry on the 16th of November. Due to limitations on staff resources BIM is not in a position to visit every mussel farm every year. BIM does however visit any farm that it is involved with in respect of grant aid or development projects. In this respect it would be safe to say the Killary based mussel farmers have had more visits from BIM staff than any other area in the country over the last three years because of the level of activity in the bay.
The main markets for harvested rope mussels are in France, Spain and Italy. The size of harvested mussels is decided by the needs of the markets in Europe. The Belgian markets generally require mussels of 65mm+ with the French, Dutch and German markets requiring a mussel of a smaller size, in the 45mm size range. However should the market preference change in the future, the harvest size would meet the demand. There are no size regulations applicable to rope cultivated mussels. Whilst the tonnages of mussels produced by the Irish mussel industry are monitored, no systematic data regarding the average individual size of mussels sold from year to year is collected form Killary or any other production area. The producers respond to market demand and the characteristics of the particular crop the have to hand. There are no legal minimum size regulations applicable to harvesting rope cultivated mussels. The volume and value for the rope mussel industry in Killary is given below.
|
Year |
Location |
Harvested Quantity |
Value at First Sale |
|
(MT) |
€ |
||
|
1995 |
Killary Harbour |
452 |
240,107 |
|
1996 |
Killary Harbour |
630 |
246,964 |
|
1997 |
Killary Harbour |
805 |
306,641 |
|
1998 |
Killary Harbour |
1,010 |
542,178 |
|
1999 |
Killary Harbour |
821 |
312,736 |
|
2000 |
Killary Harbour |
246 |
62,471 |
|
2001 |
Killary Harbour |
475 |
296,935 |
|
2002 |
Killary Harbour |
1,170 |
767,593 |
|
2003 |
Killary Harbour |
1,136 |
896,372 |
|
2004 |
Killary Harbour |
1,419 |
1,110,453 |
|
2005 |
Killary Harbour |
1,703 |
1,297,386 |
|
Year |
Bay |
Export volume |
Export value |
|
t |
€ |
||
|
2002 |
Killary |
380 |
223,773 |
|
2003 |
Killary |
212 |
172,952 |
|
2004 |
Killary |
444 |
352,200 |
The exceptional frequency of detection of naturally occurring bio-toxins in shellfish growing waters in 1999 and 2000 led to prolonged closures for shellfish harvesting, of many premier shellfish growing areas, resulting in lost crops and financial difficulties throughout the shellfish farming sector. The rope mussel production sector was particularly badly affected.
Following representations by industry to the Minister for the Marine and a preliminary assessment by BIM of estimated losses, funding of €3.174m was made available to the shellfish production sector under the Shellfish Remedial Package. The aim of the scheme was to assist growers to overcome the difficulties of prolonged closures due to bio-toxins. The scheme provided financial aid to assist producers with a once-off environmental clean-up of redundant stock and to restore and secure production capability for the future. The scheme applied to losses of stock, which was mature and ready for harvest in the period 1 May to 31 December 2000. It should be noted that the Scheme was not devised to provide compensation to individual growers but rather to provide assistance to promote the restocking of affected farms on the basis of applications received from these farmers.
This national scheme was announced in Budget 2001 and launched in Bantry on 12 January 2001 and was launched by the Minister of State at the Department and received wide media coverage in both the national and local press and on radio and television. The practice of launching schemes with media coverage and advertising such schemes in local press is a standard practice followed by BIM.
Administration of the scheme was delegated to BIM who dealt with matters such as publicity, the application process and the assessment of applications received in accordance with agreed criteria. Details regarding the objectives of the scheme and how to apply were advertised by BIM in the Kerryman and Connaught Tribune of 19 January 2001 and the Southern Star of 20 January 2001. Details were also published in BIM's Administration of the scheme was delegated to BIM who dealt with matters such as publicity, the application process and the assessment of applications received in accordance with agreed criteria. Details were also published in BIM's Aquaculture Newsletter No 36 and Aquaculture Ireland. The Irish Shellfish Association was involved with BIM in negotiations with regards to the Scheme.
A total of 80 applications were received by BIM. Having assessed all applications in accordance with the criteria of the scheme, funding was approved in respect of 43 applications. The broad geographical spread of applications provides evidence that applications were received from all over the country and that the scheme was very well known to the mussel industry. Given its responsibility for the administration of public funds, it was not the policy of BIM, nor would it have been appropriate for BIM, to solicit individual applications under the Scheme.
There were seven Killary-based beneficiaries. Of these seven, five were members of the Killary Co-op at the time of the Scheme. It should be noted that the Killary Coop is comprised of members with addresses in both Co Galway and Co Mayo. BIM is not aware as to the reasons why a number of the mussel farmers in Killary failed to make applications to the scheme in time to be considered eligible for payment. BIM did not exclude any eligible applicant from the Scheme. All valid applications received, were processed in strict accordance with the criteria laid down for the operation of the scheme. A number of mussel farmers from Killary did lodge applications well after the closing date, and BIM did deal with them as sympathetically as possible. However it was not possible to make payments to these applicants as the fund for the scheme was fully spent dealing with the claims of eligible applicants; leaving no monies available to deal with late applications.
414 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if all of the available designated area for mussel farming is currently taken up by licensed holders; the number of licensed holders who actually use the licence allocated to them as distinct from having leased on their licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39192/06]
The Fisheries (Amendment) Act 1997, as amended, allows for applications to be made for the cultivation of mussels at any location on the foreshore. Such applications are, of course, subject to statutory criteria and public policy.
Aquaculture licences may be granted to individual persons, partnerships, co-operative societies or companies. There is no obstacle to a licensee employing a third party to operate the licence. My Department does not maintain statistics on such third party arrangements as the licensee remains responsible, in the first instance, for ensuring that the aquaculture is carried out in accordance with the terms and conditions of the licence.
418 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent of works that were carried out in Killary Harbour between 1992 and 1996 on the basis of improvement of infrastructure and facilities for growing mussels and so on; if these works are still in situ and in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39196/06]
For the period 1992 to 1996 there were no works undertaken by the Department in Killary Harbour other than a Hydrographic Survey in 1996.
423 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the person who, with regard to foreign gillnet surveys, is granting permission for trials in Irish waters in view of the fact that there are foreign vessels using illegal gear to land fish in Irish waters in the name of research; the way he can advocate criminal sanctions for technical fishery offences for Irish vessels while fishing with undersize gear by foreign vessels goes unpunished; the procedure these vessels undertake before permission for a trial is given; the measures his Department takes to ensure they are keeping within the remit of the trial while these trials are under way; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39202/06]
Council Regulation (EC) No. 850/98 lays down technical conservation measures for the protection of juvenile marine organisms. However, Article 43 of this Regulation provides for a derogation from these measures (mesh size and other technical stipulations) for the purpose of scientific research. The cases referred to by the Deputy relate to scientific research being carried out with gill-nets with mesh sizes under 120 mm which are currently banned. The article stipulates that any such research must be carried out under the supervision of the Member State whose vessel is involved, and with advance notification to the European Commission and to the coastal state, in this case Ireland.
The Minister of State, Deputy Browne, and I do not accept the need for research involving the use of undersized mesh, and particularly not where the species in question is the subject of protection as part of a recovery plan.
In recent months Spanish vessels have carried out research into species such as hake, megrim and anglerfish, using undersized meshes. In July/August this year the Minister of State, Deputy Browne, and I became aware that French vessels were proposing to carry out such experiments in the hake and monkfish fisheries off the west coast. The Minister of State, Deputy Browne, immediately instructed officials to raise the matter with the European Commission and the French authorities, with the result that the French authorities instructed their vessels to withdraw the element of their research programme involving undersized meshes.
More recently, my Department received notification from the Spanish Ministry advising of their intention to carry out similar research in the hake and megrim fisheries. At the request of the Minister of State, Deputy Browne, officials of my Department have again expressed our very strong opposition to the proposal and asked the Commission to intervene to stop such fishing which is completely contrary to the EU plans for conservation and recovery of the stocks. The Commission has written to the Spanish authorities seeking a justification for the research programmes. Officials from my Department have also met with the Spanish authorities in relation to the matter. One such vessel was indeed arrested while discussions were ongoing with the Commission and the Spanish authorities, but was subsequently released on the basis that it was part of the research programme.
The Minister of State, Deputy Browne, has written to Commissioner Borg requesting an amendment to the EU Regulations so that the express approval of the coastal Member State would be necessary for research projects in their Exclusive Fisheries Zone. We will continue to press strongly for the introduction of the amendment over the coming weeks.
In the meantime, the Irish control authorities will continue to monitor the activities of any vessels carrying out research in Ireland's waters to ensure that the regulatory requirements are met.
424 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has had discussions with An Bord Gáis with a view to the further extension of the gas pipeline throughout the western and mid-western region with particular reference to achieving maximum availability throughout the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39204/06]
Since 2002, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is a statutory independent body, has been charged with all aspects of the assessment and licensing of prospective operators who wish to develop and/or operate a gas distribution system within the State under the Gas (Interim) (Regulation) Act 2002.
The construction by Bord Gáis Éireann (BGÉ) of a natural gas transmission pipeline, known as the Mayo-Galway Pipeline, has recently been completed. The pipeline is one part of the infrastructure required to transport natural gas from the Corrib gas-field to the national gas network.
Earlier this year the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) directed BGÉ to implement a new Gas Connections Policy, which determines the economic viability of connecting towns to the gas network. The new policy allows for the appraisal of a new town either on its own or as part of a regional group of towns. Having regard to this new policy, BGÉ carried out a comprehensive review of towns being considered for connection to the national gas network. The review is being conducted in two phases, and phase 1, which covers the towns in the proximity of the Mayo-Galway Pipeline, has already been completed.
Following consideration of this phase of the review, the CER made the decision to allow Bord Gáis to extend the natural gas network to eleven towns along the route of its Mayo-Galway gas transmission pipeline. The towns to be connected to the network are Athenry, Craughwell, Headford, and Tuam in Co. Galway and Ballina, Ballyhaunis, Castlebar, Claremorris, Crossmolina, Knock and Westport in Co. Mayo, and it is hoped that some of these can be connected by the end of 2007.
Bord Gáis is continuing its evaluation of the viability of extending the gas network elsewhere to towns in other parts of the country, including the mid-west, with a view to completing its review by July, 2007. Following completion of this study, the CER will consider whether other towns with an economically viable case may be connected. While I have not had direct discussions with BGE in the matter, my Department is kept regularly apprised by both the CER and Bord Gáis as to the progress of this review, and with regard to any decisions made.
A map which shows each of the towns to be examined in phase 2 of the review is available on Bord Gáis's website www.bge.ie, as well as details of all issues which went into its consideration of towns considered under phase 1.
My Department has also engaged consultants for a Gas to the Northwest Study, in the context of the Government's objective for regional policy in the National Development Plan and having regard to the National Spatial Strategy.
The scope of this study is firstly, to determine the feasibility of bringing gas from the Mayo-Galway pipeline to Donegal Town via Sligo, considering three specified alternative routes; secondly, to examine and assess options for and issues surrounding the development of gas-fired power generation along the pipeline routes; and finally, to present options for the provision of gas pipeline infrastructure and gas-fired power generation, with recommendations as to how best the options may be pursued. The study is scheduled for completion in January 2007.
426 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his vision for the provision of postal, delivery and counter services in the future with particular reference to the role to be played by An Post and other service providers; the extent to which profitable an non-profitable services are to be shared; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39206/06]
The future provision of postal, delivery and counter services will be, in the first instance, a matter for An Post and other service providers.
As set out clearly in the Programme for Government, this Government and the Board of An Post continue to be committed to the objective of ensuring a viable and sustainable nationwide post office network into the future. With this in mind, I have asked the company to ensure that any strategy for the development of the company should ensure the long term viability of the post office network.
With respect to mail services, I believe that there will continue to be a key national role for An Post in delivery of mails and parcels. However, over the coming years, competition can be expected to increase in these sectors, whether from the privately owned express sector, from the large European public operators now looking for international business or from electronic substitution.
Liberalisation of the mail market in Ireland has already commenced and the proposed third Postal Directive proposes that the postal sector is to fully liberalise across the EU on 1 January 2009 subject to political agreement, which, if achieved, would open up the letter post area to full competition.
Issues that will be important for Ireland in the context of a fully liberalised market will include the protection of the universal service, ensuring that Irish citizens continue to receive a broad suite of postal services and the continued viability of An Post in the face of open competition. No decision has yet been made as to how the provision of the USO shall be financed.
The development of the postal market requires the availability of competitive, high quality products. The current level of market opening has introduced new players with offerings that meet consumer needs and further market opening will provide further opportunities for new and existing players. The development of further competition allied with a modernised and customer-focused An Post will provide the basis for the further development of the postal sector here.
427 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of staff in his Department who have indicated willingness to decentralise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38596/06]
Under the Government's decentralisation programme, the Development Cooperation Directorate of the Department of Foreign Affairs, which is Irish Aid's Headquarters, and currently based in Dublin, will decentralise to Limerick. This is scheduled to take place during the third quarter of 2007 and will involve the relocation to Limerick of 124 posts.
Already, 48 posts in Irish Aid headquarters, including that of Director General, are filled by officers who have signalled their intention to decentralise to Limerick. Some 12 of these officers were already serving within the Department. The remainder is made up of 25 officers who have been recruited from other Departments and Offices via the Central Applications Facility, 8 officers who have been assigned from inter-Departmental promotion panels and 3 newly-recruited officers.
A further 17 officers who are serving elsewhere in the Department, mostly abroad, are also expected to decentralise to Limerick and will be taking up duty in Irish Aid in advance of the move. In addition, 21 officers from other Departments who have applied to decentralise to Limerick, most of whom are currently based in provincial locations, will transfer to the Department closer to the date of the move. Once these officers take up duty in Irish Aid, 86 posts (69% of the Directorate's staff complement) will be in place.
A small number of staff, approximately 15 at entry grades, will be recruited for direct assignment to Limerick in the months preceding the move.
There are 24 development specialist posts attached to Irish Aid's headquarters. Five Development Specialists and two Senior Development Specialists, who had applied to decentralise, have since decided to withdraw their applications. The specialists, with the support of the IMPACT trade union, say that they are not prepared to consider decentralising while issues around the terms and conditions of their employment are unresolved.
Discussions are continuing with representatives of the specialists, with IMPACT, and with the Department of Finance with a view to resolving the issues involved which also have a wider Civil Service dimension. It would be my hope that a greater number of Specialists will, in time, volunteer to decentralise to Limerick.
In addition to those officers volunteering to decentralise to Limerick with Irish Aid, 115 officers within my Department have applied to transfer to provincial locations with other Departments. To date, 26 of these have accepted offers to decentralise.
428 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has contacted the Israeli Ambassador and expressed the concern of the Irish Government in relation to the rising toll in deaths and injuries in Gaza as a result of Israeli military actions over the past four months; if he has discussed these issues with the Ambassador; if he has demanded that the Israelis commit to withdrawing their current policy of shelling highly populated areas; if he has not discussed these matters with the Ambassador, does he intend to do so and when; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38610/06]
429 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has been in contact with the US Ambassador regarding the current Israeli policy of shelling highly populated areas, which has resulted in nearly 250 fatalities, including children and nearly 1,000 wounded, 34% of whom have been children, in the past four months; if he has asked the US to intervene and use its considerable influence to put a halt to this devastating policy; if not, will he do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38611/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 428 and 429 together.
The Government is deeply concerned by the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and especially by the rising toll of death and destruction in Gaza. We have conveyed our position clearly and consistently in direct contacts with the parties, including the Israeli Ambassador in Dublin and the Israeli Government in Jerusalem, in our contacts with the US and others, and at the United Nations.
Most recently, I have unreservedly condemned the killing of 18 civilians, including women and children, in the shelling of Beit Hanoun by the Israeli Defence Forces on 8 November. I also condemn the killing of an Israeli woman in rocket attacks on Sderot on 15 November. The Government has called very clearly for an immediate end to all violence. This includes the Israeli military operation in Gaza and the firing of rockets on Israel from Palestinian Territory.
An Emergency Special Session of the UN General Assembly on 17 November adopted a Resolution, introduced by the Palestinian delegation, which calls on Israel to cease immediately military operations which endanger the Palestinian civilian population in the Occupied Territories and withdraw its forces from within the Gaza Strip to their positions prior to 28 June 2006. Ireland and all other EU Member States voted in favour of the Resolution.
The meeting of the General Affairs and External Relations Council in Brussels on 13 November strongly deplored the Israeli military action in Gaza and the unacceptable military operation in Beit Hanoun. The Council emphasised that any military action should not be disproportionate or in contravention of international humanitarian law. The Government and our EU partners have reminded all parties of their obligation to protect civilian lives. Israel has a legitimate right to defend itself against attack, but not at the expense of the lives and welfare of innocent civilians.
The terrible violence of recent months underlines the urgent need to revive a credible peace process in the Middle East. There can be no military or unilateral solutions to the Israeli — Palestinian conflict. We have argued strongly that the only way forward for the Israeli and the Palestinian people is the negotiation of a viable two-State solution. The EU supports the continuing efforts of President Mahmoud Abbas to negotiate the formation of a Palestinian national unity government. The Council on 13 November stated that a government with a platform reflecting the Quartet principles and allowing for early engagement would be a partner for the international community in re-launching the peace process.
All parties have an obligation to seize the opportunity to rebuild the peace process and to avoid further tragedies such as those witnessed in the Occupied Territories in recent weeks.
430 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department has received documentation from the authorities in Ecuador regarding its wish to operate the Strasbourg Agreement as a mechanism to facilitate the repatriation of prisoners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38676/06]
The Department of Foreign Affairs has not received any such documentation from the Ecuadorian authorities regarding facilitating the transfer of prisoners.
Our Honorary Consul in Ecuador, together with her EU colleagues, are in regular contact with the Ecuadorian Authorities with the objective of having the procedures of the Strasbourg Convention activated by Ecuador.
431 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the plan to include Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam in the Irish Aid Programme; if he will provide assurances that this will not take from the effort being made on the African continent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39017/06]
The Government decided in December 2004 to open an Embassy in Hanoi with responsibility for the development of a South East Asia regional development programme covering Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.
Irish Aid established a development programme in Vietnam in 2005. Programmes commenced in Cambodia and Laos in 2006. They focus, as in Africa, on poverty reduction, pro-poor economic growth and civil society. Funding is also provided for de-mining activities.
I can assure the Deputy that the inclusion of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos in Ireland's aid programme will not adversely impact on our commitment to Africa.
The vast majority of our aid goes to Africa. This will continue. The White Paper on Irish Aid, approved by the Government and published in September, states that "Africa will remain the principal geographic focus for Irish Aid". In line with this commitment, the Government have designated Malawi as a new programme country for Irish Aid.
432 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the impact of the construction of the M3 on heritage tourism. [38563/06]
Responsibility for the design, planning, specification and implementation of individual national road projects, including the M3 Scheme, is a matter for the National Roads Authority under Section 17(1) of the Roads Act, 1993 and the relevant local authority which, in this case, is Meath County Council. Neither the National Roads Authority nor the Local Authorities operate under the aegis of my Department.
I understand that an Environmental Impact Statement for the M3 scheme was prepared on behalf of Meath County Council and it found, inter alia, that the scheme would stimulate increased tourist activity as well as improving the accessibility of recreational and cultural facilities.
433 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will ensure that funding is allocated to a gallery (details supplied) in County Sligo for its redevelopment which will go into construction in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38581/06]
Under the Cultural Development Incentive Scheme (CDIS) which operated between 1994 and 2000, the Model Arts & Niland Gallery, Sligo received funding of £1,100,000 to refurbish its existing building for use as an Arts centre and to provide exhibition space, space for workshops, Audio-visual/music centre, small restaurant and retail outlet.
In July last I announced a new capital funding scheme — ACCESS II. This new scheme will provide grant aid towards the development costs of arts and culture infrastructure around the country. It will run over the years 2007 — 2009. The scheme is intended to provide a further impetus to the development of arts and culture facilities, thereby enhancing the quality of life for our citizens.
Applications for ACCESS II were accepted up to November 17th, 2006. An independent Committee will assess project proposals received and will make recommendations to me for consideration. I hope to be in a position to announce the successful applicants early next year.
434 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the status of the submission from Special Olympics Ireland for funding over the next five years; his views on whether Special Olympics Ireland carries out an invaluable role; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that over 25% of current funding for Special Olympics Ireland comes from a trust fund which will end in 2007; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that Special Olympics Ireland require €3.3 million a year Government funding, in addition to its own fund-raising, to maintain and develop its programme over the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39045/06]
I am happy to place on record the high regard in which both I and my Government colleagues hold Special Olympics Ireland. Since 1999, Special Olympics Ireland has received core funding of €4 million from the Irish Sports Council including almost €0.6 million this year.
Special Olympics Ireland recently made a submission to the Government on the development and funding of the Special Olympics Programme over the next three years. Subsequently, they met with officials of my Department to elaborate on their submission which is being given the fullest consideration in consultation with other Government Departments.
435 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views in regard to the contents of a submission (details supplied); the meetings he has had in regard to the independent review within his Department and at EU level; the progress made in regard to the implementation of the review; if he has made or considered a submission to the European Commission's White Paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39183/06]
The final text of the Arnaut Report was received in my Department on 17th November and is being examined by my officials in consultation with the Football Association of Ireland. The report is divided into two main parts, one dealing with the specific nature of sport in EU law generally, and the other using European football as a case study, to investigate and suggest certain practical solutions. According to the findings of the Report, there is a crucial need to have a formal structure for the relationship between the EU institutions and the European governing body for football.
It is likely that the issues discussed in the Arnaut Report will feed into a White Paper on Sport, which is being proposed by the EU Commission, and the Deputy may rest assured that my Department will participate fully in the discussions around the White Paper when published.
436 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when consumers here will see the promised reduction expected from the abolition of the Groceries Order; if his Department established a group to scrutinise this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38539/06]
The Groceries Order was abolished primarily because it allowed wholesalers and suppliers to determine minimum retail prices charged to consumers, thereby seriously constraining price competition in the grocery trade. During the time the Groceries Order was in force more than 2,000 small independent retailers went out of business resulting in the grocery trade in Ireland becoming more concentrated in the hands of fewer participants.
The combined impact of these events was to create a floor under the retail price below which groceries could not be sold. This resulted in Irish consumers paying more for their groceries than would otherwise have been the case. However, there are many factors which impact on the price of groceries in our supermarkets. The lack of competition caused by the Groceries Order was only one such factor. Others would include production costs, labour costs, interest rates, overheads, international exchange rates and so on.
Because of this, and despite the implication in the question, I never predicted price reductions resulting from the removal of the Grocery Order nor did I predict any period of time over which such reductions might be expected to occur. On the other hand I am on record as saying all along that I expected prices to be lower in the future than they would otherwise be had the Groceries Order remained in force. CSO figures are consistent with this view, particularly when grocery price inflation is compared with overall inflation. The Consumer Price Index for October shows that the prices of products previously covered by the Groceries Order fell by 0.7% in the seven-month period from April to October while during the same seven month period, prices of products not covered by the Groceries Order rose by 1.5%.
The overall impact on all groceries prices (Groceries Order and Non Groceries Order items) is a decrease of 0.2% in the same seven-month period. The real benefits however will be felt over time, as price competition re-emerges at retail level in the trade thus reversing the 18 years of damage done by the Order.
Following the enactment of the legislation which abolished the Groceries Order, I asked the Competition Authority to review and monitor developments in the grocery sector in light of the new regulatory environment. I am anxious to ensure that the benefits of removing the Order are not thwarted by the emergence of other anti-competitive practices. That is why, for example, the Competition Act 2006 prohibits practices such as resale maintenance, which were institutionalised by the Order. It would be very damaging to consumer interests if such practices were to emerge within the grocery trade in another guise. Since removal of the Order, the Competition Authority has received no complaints of anti-competitive behaviour in the sector, nor has it seen any evidence of such behaviour.
The Authority's monitoring of the sector is on going but I understand they believe it is too early to reach any conclusions. In April 2007, one year's worth of data will be available for analysis and I understand the Authority intends to publish, later in 2007, an analysis of developments in the grocery sector focusing on pricing trends, market structure and barriers to entry. Thereafter further analyses will be published annually for as long as necessary.
437 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a person employed for a three and a half year period with no break of service is entitled to be made permanent under current employment legislation (details supplied). [38554/06]
The Protection of Employees (Fixed-Term Work) Act 2003 provides in relation to an employee who enters on a fixed-term contract of employment before the commencement of the Act on 14 July 2003 that if that employee is employed continuously on such a contract of employment for three continuous years, his or her contract of employment can only be renewed one more time on a fixed-term basis for up to one year and that if it is renewed again after that, it is deemed to be a contract of indefinite duration (a permanent contract) unless the employer has objective grounds for renewing the contract of employment again on a fixed-term basis.
In addition, the 2003 Act provides in relation to an employee who enters on a fixed-term contract of employment after the commencement of the Act, that if that employee is employed on such a contract of employment for four continuous years and the contract is renewed again after that, then it is deemed to be one of indefinite duration (a permanent contract) unless the employer has objective grounds for renewing the contract of employment again on a fixed-term basis.
Under the 2003 Act, a ground shall not be regarded as an objective ground for the purposes of the Act, unless it is based on considerations other than the status of the employee concerned as a fixed-term employee, and the less favourable treatment which it involves for that employee, is for the purpose of achieving a legitimate objective of the employer, and such treatment is appropriate and necessary for that purpose.
Any dispute between an employer and a fixed-term employee about whether a contract of employment should be deemed to be one of indefinite duration may be referred to a Rights Commissioner for a decision, under the 2003 Act.
438 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the action being taken by the New Zealand competition watchdog, the Commerce Commission, against 11 banks and financial institutions in New Zealand that have acted anti-competitively by price-fixing the credit card fees paid by retailers; if the Competition Authority has investigated the credit card market here; if fees in the Irish credit card market are set in a competitive way; if the Competition Authority have reported on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38583/06]
I am aware that New Zealand's Commerce Commission has issued civil proceedings against two credit card companies and a number of financial institutions for alleged price-fixing in relation to retailer's fees. In Ireland, charges imposed by credit institutions are notifiable under section 149 of the Consumer Credit Act, 1995 (as amended) to the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority (IFSRA). I have no function in this matter. IFSRA in exercising their powers under the Act, have regard to, inter alia, fair competition between financial institutions.
Investigations are part of the day to day work of the Competition Authority and by their very nature are confidential. The Authority does not publish investigative findings, as to do so, could prejudice any legal proceedings arising out of the investigation. The Competition Authority is an independent statutory agency responsible for the enforcement of competition law across all sectors of the Irish economy. I have no direct responsibility for the day to day work of the Authority. However, I am informed the Authority did publish a report last year on competition in the banking sector but did not consider this issue.
439 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will report on investigations by the Competition Authority into the lack of choice offered by financial institutions to their clients in regard to payment protection insurance on loans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38584/06]
The Deputy's question concerns investigations which are part of the day to day work of the Competition Authority. The Competition Authority is an independent statutory agency responsible for the enforcement of competition law across all sectors of the Irish economy. I have no direct responsibility for the day to day work of the Authority. In any case, investigations by their very nature are confidential and the Authority does not publish investigative findings, as to do so, could prejudice any legal proceedings arising out of the investigation.
440 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount of funding committed to the RTDI initiative under the current National Development Plan; if he will provide a breakdown in relation to the amounts allocated individually to the Border Midlands Western and south eastern regions; the amount spent on this initiative to date; the amount spent in each region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38651/06]
The following table sets out the position in relation to funding allocations for RTDI under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 and the amounts spent to date in both the Border, Midlands and Western and the Southern and Eastern regions. The RTDI Priority is one of four priority areas to receive funding under the Productive Sector Operational Programme. This funding is comprised of both exchequer and EU structural funds and to date spend stands at over €1.7 billion.
Spending under the priority takes place across a range of measures in the education, industry, agriculture, food industry, marine, forestry and environmental sectors. There have been a number of significant achievements during the lifetime of the Operational Programme. These include
the establishment of Science Foundation Ireland on a statutory basis,
€987 million spent on Industry Research and Development,
€134 million spent on world class equipment under the Programme for Research in Third level Institutions,
the establishment of seven Centres for Science, Engineering & Technology Research, and
the build and fit-out of the Celtic Explorer marine research vessel, which averages over 300 operational days at sea per annum.
When the current NDP was drawn up in 1999, very ambitious estimates for expenditure were included for RTDI spending, particularly in the BMW region. Unfortunately, spending under this priority has been well below forecasts. There have been a number of contributory factors to this outcome, including:
the Programme experienced a slow start to spend, with some delay in securing State Aid clearance from the EU Commission and spend under some measures being included in the old Industry Programme. Spend under the RTDI priority however, continues to strengthen, and has increased year-on-year over the course of the programme.
The impact of the slowdown in economic activity in 2000-02, and the outbreak of foot and mouth disease, meant that businesses and the agriculture sector were not in a position to put forward sufficient investment plans in the early years to avail of funding. As R+D projects have unusually long lead-in times between inception and funding requests, expenditure is now only being realised in the latter part of the programme.
In the case of the BMW, the absorption capacity of the region has had a strong impact on the level of spend. NUI Galway has performed extremely well in obtaining competitive Research and Development funding, while the Institutes of Technology are being encouraged to improve their research capacity have a more limited research capacity. Likewise, the industrial base in the BMW (more small, indigenous companies and less high value-added industry) means that R&D activity by industry in the region is also relatively limited compared to the S&E.
Emerging difficulties in drawing down EU funds involved were identified some time back and my Department has been working to ameliorate the problem. Steps taken have included initiatives designed to encourage the take up of available funding, revisions to the Programme Complements to allow larger projects to be supported and the transfer of funding from RTDI to other areas. It should be noted that funds transferred to other Operational Programmes and priorities have been retained within the BMW region, thus ensuring no dilution of the regional aid to the area.
|
Amount Allocated |
Spend to June 2006 |
|
|
billion € |
billion € |
|
|
National |
3.095 |
1.728 |
|
BMW |
0.844 |
0.264 |
|
S&E |
2.250 |
1.464 |
Note: the amount allocated figure takes account of decommitments of EU and related funding.
441 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs at present provided by IDA supported factories in each of the Border counties of Cavan and Monaghan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38713/06]
IDA Ireland is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) to Ireland and its regions. The Forfás Annual Employment Survey records jobs gained and lost in companies supported by the Industrial Development Agencies.
At the end of 2005 there were 7 IDA supported companies employing 1, 069 people in Cavan and 6 companies employing 290 people in Monaghan. IDA Ireland believes that the vigorous pursuit of its main policy objectives is the best response to the current challenging environment of increasing opportunities for employment both within its own portfolio but also across the wider economy. The key features of this approach are as follows:
Continuing investment promotion activities to generate new flows of FDI into Ireland
Working closely with foreign owned companies already located in Ireland to identify new investment opportunities
Helping to maintain and augment the competitiveness of client companies to enhance their capacity for investment and direct and indirect employment creation.
I am confident that the strategies being pursued by IDA Ireland will continue to deliver for Ireland, including the people of Cavan and Monaghan, new and expansion FDI projects.
442 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of site visits the IDA or Enterprise Ireland has organised to each of counties Monaghan and Cavan in each of the past five years; if he has satisfied himself that sufficient effort is being made to get inward investment of hi-tech jobs to this border region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38714/06]
IDA Ireland is the Agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment to Ireland while Enterprise Ireland is responsible for the development of indigenous industry with export potential. As part of its statutory responsibilities IDA Ireland maintains a property portfolio to assist in the marketing of individual areas and regions to both overseas investors and Enterprise Ireland clients.
As itineraries for site visits relate to mobile investments, normally from overseas, and the EI portfolio of indigenous client companies is of its nature not very mobile, the number of site visits arranged by Enterprise Ireland only relates to a small number of companies. Any such visits are primarily for natural resources companies, taking into account their special location requirements such as access to raw materials and to facilities.
Where an Irish company is interested in relocating an expansion to another part of the country, the Enterprise Ireland Office in that Region will assist in providing information on premises and services available locally, or contact details for other information sources in the Region.
So far this year the IDA has hosted five site visits to Cavan and one to Monaghan. The following table provides details the number of site visits to Counties Cavan and Monaghan from 2002 to 2006. Site Visits are only one indicator of IDA's marketing effort of the Counties. In this respect the Agency continues to actively market Cavan & Monaghan for Foreign Direct Investment through presentations to potential clients by its Projects Division and Overseas Marketing Executives Internationally.
IDA Ireland is continuing to actively market the vacant 23,000 sq ft Advanced Technology Building (23,000 sq ft) on its recently upgraded and fully serviced Business Park in Cavan (c 40 acres), for new inward investment or qualifying indigenous industry. In addition IDA Ireland are promoting two other sites with full planning permission for new 25,000 sq ft Advanced Technology buildings and fully serviced sites of 10 to 15 acre for new Greenfield investments.
To date this year there has been a significant increase in the number of overseas projects which have included Cavan on their itineraries, which is encouraging. Ultimately decisions regarding where to locate, including where to visit as a potential location are taken by investors.
IDA's Regional Strategy has been to adopt a focused approach to marketing, selecting specific towns in each Region and setting targets for new investment. This year, for example, IDA is working to secure a new investment in the medical devices area for Cavan town as it believes the existing 23,745 sq ft facility on its Cavan Business Park is particularly suited to that sector and that, in addition, the sector will not compete with existing businesses in the town for potential employees.
I understand this approach has been very successful in other towns in the region such as Dundalk and Drogheda where there have been some significant investments secured over the last twelve months.
|
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 (To date) |
|
|
Cavan |
1 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
4 |
|
Monaghan |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
443 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when he became aware of the difficulties of an operation (details supplied); when his department became aware of the problems in the company; the ongoing discussions taking place with Enterprise Ireland on the development of the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38721/06]
While responsibility for the food sector rests with the Minister for Agriculture and Food, I am aware that the market for canned meat is in decline as a result of changed consumer preferences and a greater emphasis on fresh and chilled products.
Enterprise Ireland has been aware for some time of the difficulties being experienced at the plant in question. Over the past two years, the agency was working with the company to try to stimulate new product development to replace products in decline. Under its Research and Development grant aid scheme, Enterprise Ireland supported potential new product development projects. Unfortunately, there was no positive outcome from these initiatives.
There was also a possibility that some of the existing management team might purchase the business. Enterprise Ireland held discussions with these potential new owners and encouraged the company to do business if possible. However, the company recently came to the view that it had exhausted all possibilities in relation to a management buy-out and, as a result, it announced the closure of the plant last Tuesday.
Notwithstanding this, Enterprise Ireland will continue to work with the company to try to develop alternative uses for the site in Ruskey.
444 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will clarify the confusion in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Galway who is seeking a work permit; and if he will assist them with a work permit. [38978/06]
The Work Permit section of my Department informs me that, having heard an appeal, the original decision was upheld in this case. The proposed employee is currently the subject of a deportation order issued by the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and is, therefore, not eligible to enter the workforce.
Furthermore, in the aftermath of EU Enlargement, it is Government policy that employers should be able to source nearly all of their workforce needs from within the EU. Accordingly, only in cases where exceptional levels of skill and qualifications are needed for the job, and the employer has made meaningful attempts to find EEA nationals first, will my Department now consider work permit applications.
445 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the grants paid out by Mayo County Enterprise Board in each of the past three years and to date in 2006; and the grants currently available. [38979/06]
Mayo County Enterprise Board (CEB) was established in 1993 to provide support to small businesses with 10 employees or fewer. The Board's function is to develop indigenous enterprise potential and to stimulate economic activity at local level. The CEB supports individuals, firms, community groups, provided that the projects have the capacity to achieve commercial viability. Priority must be given to manufacturing and internationally traded services companies which could develop into strong export entities.
The specific types of CEB assistance available to micro-enterprise is broken down between financial assistance such as grants for feasibility studies, employment grants and capital grants and non-financial assistance such as Programmes covering Business Management, Mentoring, E-commerce, Enterprise Education and Women in Business networks. Full details on the activities of Mayo CEB are available in its Annual Reports which are laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas.
The general levels of available financial assistance are as follows:
Capital grants up to a maximum of 50% of the cost of capital and other investment or €75,000, whichever is the lesser; a portion of the grant in excess of 40%( in the BMW Region) or 35% (in the S&E Region) to be in refundable form.
Employment grants a grant of up €7,500 per new job, to a maximum of 10 new jobs.
Feasibility study grants up to a maximum of 60% (in the BMW Region) or 50% (in the S&E Region), of the cost of a feasibility study and business plan, subject to an overall limit of €6,350 (in the BMW Region) or €5,100 (in the S&E Region).
Details of the total amount of grants paid out by Mayo CEB in each of the past three years and to date in 2006 are in tabular form as follows.
|
€ |
|
|
2003 |
359,012 |
|
2004 |
294,223 |
|
2005 |
301,239 |
|
2006 to 16/11/06 |
212,000 |
446 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the plans he has in place to attract more jobs for north Kerry; if Tralee is lagging behind other comparable towns in the country in terms of job creation in the past four years; when he expects the liquified natural gas storage facility on a land bank between Tarbert and Ballylongford to be up and running; the stage the project is at. [39054/06]
Support for job creation and investment in individual counties and towns is a day-to-day operational matter for the development agencies as part of their responsibility under the Industrial Development Acts. While I may give general policy directives to the agencies I am precluded under the Industrial Developments Acts from giving directives regarding individual undertakings or from giving preference to one area over others.
In general, the strategies in place by the enterprise training and development agencies for the County revolve around growing the existing FDI client base, attracting new investment, promoting the indigenous sector, encouraging entrepreneurship and small start-up companies and the provision of training for the unemployed and those in work.
Employment in agency-assisted firms is recorded by the Forfás in their annual Employment Survey but this data are only captured at county level and the latest year for which data is available is 2005. The total number of people employed in agency-assisted companies in County Kerry at the end 2005 was 6,453.
Kerry Technology Park is a Shannon Development initiative in co-operation with the Institute of Technology Tralee and in partnership with IDA Ireland, Tralee Urban District Council, Kerry County Council, and the private sector. At the end 2005 there were 16 companies operating from the Park, employing 220 people — an increase of 55 over 2004. This increase was spread across a number of companies, all of which operate in the knowledge based business sector.
The focus of IDA Ireland is on the linked Hub towns of Tralee and Killarney as designated under the National Spatial Strategy. There are eleven IDA supported companies operating in North Kerry employing 1,026 people in permanent jobs; 9 of these companies are located in Tralee. Employment in IDA supported companies has demonstrated relative stability in recent years, with growth of 8% during 2005 in North Kerry. The Agency is also working closely with existing clients in Kerry to encourage them to expand their operations. A total of 1,368 new jobs were created in IDA assisted companies in Kerry in respect of each of the years 2000 to 2005.
Kerry County Enterprise Board's 2006 budget allocation stands at over €900,000, which is 17.8% higher than the allocation provided to the Board in 2005. This increase enables the Kerry Board to maximize entrepreneurial development in the micro-enterprise sector throughout the north Kerry region. From January 2006 to-date the Board has paid out over €240,000 in grant assistance to 27 businesses based in the County and has assisted in the creation of 51 jobs.
In May 2006, I announced that Shannon Development had entered into an "option-to-purchase" agreement with Shannon LNG, in relation to 281 acres of the 600-acre Shannon Development owned land bank between Tarbert and Ballylongford, County Kerry. Under the agreement, Shannon LNG, an Irish subsidiary of Hess LNG Limited, is proposing to build a €400 million liquefied natural gas (LNG) receiving terminal on the site.
Subject to feasibility studies, technical assessments and, in due course, planning and other approvals, the Shannon LNG project has the potential to provide over 40% of Ireland's gas requirements. Shannon LNG has commenced its programme of technical assessments and feasibilities studies. It is anticipated that Shannon LNG will apply for planning permission in 2007, and, subject to planning approval, work should commence in 2008 with the terminal becoming operational in 2011. The terminal could provide about 50 long-term permanent jobs, along with additional support jobs and around 350 construction jobs at its peak.
I am confident that the strategies being pursued by the development agencies will continue to deliver sustainable jobs for the people of Kerry, including Tralee. The Construction of the Metropolitian Area Network in Tralee, which is scheduled to begin by year end 2006, will further enhance the attractiveness of Tralee and the North Kerry area for new investment and jobs.
447 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the action he will take regarding employers who want to downgrade pension schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38470/06]
The provision of occupational pensions in Ireland is on a voluntary basis and depends on the willingness of employers to contribute to and maintain schemes for their employees.
Defined benefit provision, in recent years, has been under pressure because of volatility in the stock markets and increasing liabilities arising from demographic pressures, low interest rates, increasing wage costs that translate into higher benefits and regulatory requirements. These factors are adding greatly to the cost of defined benefit schemes. New accounting standards, which make pensions liabilities transparent on a company's balance sheet, are also contributing to the pressures under which defined benefit schemes are now operating. As a result, some employers are no longer willing to maintain such schemes.
For a number of years, a drift towards defined contribution provision has been apparent with little or no new defined benefit schemes being opened. We have also seen a number of existing defined benefit schemes closing to new members, even in cases where firms are highly profitable. This is, in my view, a regrettable development. However, at this stage, further regulation would only serve to add to the pressures on defined benefit provision and could be counter productive.
The Government has committed itself to producing a Green Paper on pensions as part of the social partnership agreement Towards 2016. The Green Paper will outline the major policy choices, the challenges in this area and the views of the social partners.
Also, as part of this agreement, the Pensions Board has been asked to research benefit design options in the occupational pensions area and to examine current design issues in both defined benefit and defined contribution arrangements, with a view to producing guidance as to designs which encompass the positive elements of each arrangement while adjusting the costs and risks to the parties involved.
It is my intention to produce the Green Paper by the end of March next year. A consultation process will follow this and the Government will respond to these consultations by developing a framework for comprehensively addressing the pensions agenda over the long term.
448 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the procedures in place for officers of his Department employed as managers of employment exchanges; the terms of employment; the person who has responsibility for employment of staff or the cessation of employment of staff; the disciplinary procedures in place in view of incorrect procedures being carried out; the grievance procedures available if a persons employment is terminated without fair and adequate procedures being carried out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38501/06]
My Department currently has 65 Branch Offices located at various locations throughout the country. Each Branch Office is managed and operated, under a contract for services, by a Branch Manager who is required to act as an Agent for the Department in the area served by the office.
As part of the terms and conditions of their appointment, Branch Managers are required to provide sufficient clerical support to allow for the efficient performance of the work of the Office. It is a matter for each individual Branch Manager to employ his or her own staff and neither I nor my Department has any role in the recruitment of clerical staff by a Branch Manager.
While the terms and conditions under which staff are employed in Branch Offices are matters to be agreed between the Branch Manager and his or her individual employees, my Department expects that the terms of such employment would be in accordance with the relevant employment legislation.
In this regard, if an employee is of the opinion that they have been unfairly dismissed they may present a claim of unfair dismissal to either a Rights Commissioner or the Employment Appeals Tribunal under the Unfair Dismissals Acts.
449 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount which has been expended on the rent supplement scheme in each of the past 10 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38504/06]
456 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the money expended on rent allowance to enable qualifying persons rent private accommodation in each of the past 10 years and to date in 2006. [39015/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 449 and 456 together.
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive. The purpose of the scheme is to provide short-term income support, in the form of a weekly or monthly payment, to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source. The expenditure on rent supplement from 1996 to date is shown in the tabular statement as follows.
|
Year |
Expenditure |
|
€000’s |
|
|
1996 |
79,490 |
|
1997 |
95,610 |
|
1998 |
111,740 |
|
1999 |
128,240 |
|
2000 |
150,590 |
|
2001 |
179,438 |
|
2002 |
252,340 |
|
2003 |
331,470 |
|
2004 |
353,760 |
|
2005 |
368,705 |
|
2006* |
323,666 |
* End October 2006.
450 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare has received information that the rent subsidy they receive is to be reduced to the point that they will not be able to afford it as they will be on maternity leave and as such will have no residential accommodation for themselves and their two children; the options available to the person to overcome the problems as stated; the way the person on maternity leave can pay this amount from their income of €185.50 and €97 maternity leave payment per week; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38514/06]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive.
Under the rules of the scheme, rent supplements are calculated to ensure that an eligible person after the payment of rent has an income equal to the rate of supplementary welfare allowance appropriate to his or her family circumstances, less a minimum contribution of €13 which each recipient is required to pay from his or her own resources. The regulations governing rent supplement stipulate that in addition to the minimum contribution, recipients are also required to contribute towards their rent any additional assessable means that they have over and above the appropriate basic supplementary welfare allowance rate.
The Health Service Executive has advised that person concerned is in receipt of her correct entitlement to rent supplement based on her income from one parent family payment, maternity benefit and maintenance payments. The Executive has further advised that if the person is not satisfied with the decision of the Executive it is open to that person to appeal the decision to the Executive's designated Appeals Officer.
451 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on paying the old age pension or a large portion of this pension in conjunction with the carers allowance to carers, many of whom are caring for their spouse or relative on a 24 hour per day, seven days a week basis. [38527/06]
452 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he is the Minister with responsibility for carers; and the action he is taking to increase the rate of pay for carers to bring it in line with the minimum wage. [38656/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 451 and 452 together.
Supporting and recognising carers in our society is and has been a priority of the Government since 1997. Over that period, weekly payment rates to carers have been greatly increased, qualifying conditions for carer's allowance have been significantly eased, coverage of the scheme has been extended and new schemes such as carer's benefit and the respite care grant have been introduced and extended.
The carer's allowance is a social assistance payment which provides income support to people who are providing certain elderly or incapacitated persons with full-time care and attention and whose incomes fall below a certain limit. The primary objective of the social welfare system is to provide income support and, as a general rule, only one weekly social welfare payment is payable to an individual. This ensures that resources are not used to make two income support payments to any one person. Persons qualifying for two social welfare payments always receive the higher payment to which they are entitled.
In Budget 2006, I announced the biggest ever increases in the weekly rates of payments to carers representing increases of over 17% for recipients of carer's allowance. From January this year, the rate of carer's allowance increased to €200 per week for carers aged 66 years and over. This rate of payment may be higher in many instances than the rate of state pension or qualified adult allowance payable to a person. Such a person who is providing full-time care and attention to a person who requires such care may be entitled to receive this higher rate of carer's allowance. I would strongly urge any person in this position to make enquiries with my Department.
In addition, from June 2005, the annual respite care grant was extended to all carers who are providing full-time care to a person who needs such care regardless of their income. Those persons in receipt of other social welfare payments, excluding jobseeker's assistance and benefit, are entitled to this payment subject to meeting the full-time care condition. This arrangement was introduced to acknowledge the needs of carers especially in relation to respite. I also increased the level of the respite care grant from €1,000 to €1,200 per year from June 2006.
While I and my Department have responsibility for income support payments to carers, several other departments, particularly the Department of Health and Children and the Health Services Executive, are responsible for the provision of services to support carers. Co-operation between relevant Government departments and agencies is essential if the provision of services, supports and entitlements for carers is to be fully addressed. For that reason, I am pleased that the new national partnership agreement "Towards 2016" commits my Department to leading the development of a structured consultation process to inform future policy in relation to carers. This will involve an annual meeting of carer's representative groups and relevant department and agencies. The first such meeting is being held today, 21 November 2006.
Another key Government commitment in "Towards 2016" is the development of a National Carer's Strategy. This strategy, which will focus on supporting informal and family carers in the community, will be developed by the end of 2007. All relevant departments and agencies will be involved in the strategy and there will be appropriate consultation with the social partners.
Proposals involving additional expenditure can only be considered in a budgetary context. I am committed to working for, and with, carers to deliver increased benefits, supports, and services for them and their families. In that regard, I will continue to review the scope for further development of the supports available.
453 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason the payment in respect of a child of a lone parent is €19.30 per week and that of a carer’s child is €16.80 per week. [38657/06]
My Department provides child income support in a number of ways. The principal support is child benefit, CB, a universal payment which is neutral vis-a-vis the employment status of the child's parents and does not contribute to poverty traps. In addition to CB, child dependant increases, CDIs, are paid to social welfare recipients in respect of qualified child dependants.
At one point there were 36 different rates of CDI. There are currently three different weekly rates, €16.80, €19.30 and €21.60, depending on the type of payment. Half rate CDI may also be paid in respect of a child in certain circumstances, for example where both of the child's parents are receiving a social welfare payment, or where one parent has earnings over a prescribed amount. The policy in recent years has been to maintain the rate of CDIs constant while concentrating additional resources in CB.
It has been the policy of successive Governments to maintain child dependant rates at existing levels in favour of concentrating additional resources on increasing child benefit, resulting in significant increases in child benefit for all families. Any change to existing policy, including child dependant increases, would be for consideration in a Budgetary context and in the context of an overall review of targeted child income supports.
454 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost of creating a new back to school allowance (details supplied) payable to families on social welfare payments and households in receipt of family income supplement at a rate €300 for primary school children and €475 for children over 12 years of age. [38694/06]
The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance (BSCFA) scheme provides a one-off payment to eligible families to assist with the extra costs when their children start school each autumn. The allowance is intended as a contribution towards meeting the full cost of school clothing and footwear.
Budget 2006 provided for a number of improvements to the scheme. These include –
an increase of €40 in BSCFA rates from June 2006
Extension of entitlement to the back to school clothing and footwear allowance to recipients of guardian's (formerly orphan's) payments for the first time, and
An increase in the additional income disregard for entitlement to the scheme from €50 to €100 over the relevant social welfare rate.
From June 2006, an allowance of €120 is payable in respect of qualified children aged from 2 to 11 years, or €190 in respect of qualified children aged from 12 to 22 years. The Department of Education and Science operates a grant scheme towards the cost of providing school textbooks for pupils from low-income families at primary and post-primary level. In addition, schools participating in the School Support programme (SSP) under Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) the new action plan for educational inclusion, and which operate a book loan/rental scheme for 2006/2007, have been allocated increased grant aid from a supplementary fund which has been made available for this purpose. Schools are notified of the scheme each year by circular letter.
In 2006, some 172,000 children will benefit from the back to school clothing and footwear allowance scheme at an annual cost of €25.6 million. On the basis of the number of recipients of the allowance in 2006, the cost of creating a new allowance at a rate of €300 for primary school children and €475 for children over 12 years of age as suggested by the Deputy would be €64 million per annum. This would be an additional €38.4 million over the current annual expenditure on the scheme. Further improvements to the scheme are being considered in the context of the Budget, and in the light of resources available to me for improvements in social welfare payments generally, and ongoing progress on developing a second-tier style support targeted child poverty.
455 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is not receiving the fuel allowance, Christmas bonus or child dependant allowance for their daughter in college. [38944/06]
Social Welfare Regulations provide that the Christmas Bonus and the Free Fuel Allowance are payable only to persons in receipt of pensions and long-term Social Welfare payments. The person concerned is in receipt of illness benefit which is a short-term Social Welfare payment and therefore he does not qualify for either payment of the Christmas Bonus or the Free Fuel Allowance.
An application form for payment of a qualified child allowance in respect of a child over 18 years has been posted to the customer. His claim will be reviewed on receipt of the completed form.
457 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved and awarded the back to school footwear and clothing allowance on their revised application; and the reason this Deputy cannot get an answer from the Health Service Executive in this regard. [39067/06]
The Health Service Executive has advised that an application was made by the person concerned in August 2006 but it was disallowed. Her household income as assessed was substantially above the prescribed limit for entitlement to the allowance. I understand that the Health Service Executive have been in direct contact with the Deputy on this case.
458 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in circumstances of extreme illness, he will allow people to receive the fuel allowance even if they do not qualify due to the application of the means test; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39108/06]
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.
A number of improvements have been made to the scheme in recent years including the easing of the means test and extending the duration of payment from 26 weeks to 29 weeks. Most recently, Budget 2006 provided for an increase in the rate of fuel allowance of €5.00 from €9.00 to €14.00 (€17.90 in designated smokeless areas).
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. In addition to the fuel allowance, some 340,000 pensioner and other households qualify for electricity or gas allowances through the household benefits package, payable towards their heating, light and cooking costs throughout the year, at an overall cost of €119 million in 2006.
Under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme which is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare Service of the Health Service Executive a special heating supplement may be paid to assist people in certain circumstances who have special heating needs. If a recipient of a social welfare or Health Services Executive payment has exceptional heating costs due to ill health, infirmity or a medical condition which he/she is unable to meet out of household income, it is open to him/her to apply to the local community welfare officer for a special heating supplement under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. This supplement is considered the most appropriate and effective way to provide extra resources in circumstances where a person has increased heating requirements due to illness.
459 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Transport if his Department will allocate the necessary funding needed by Ireland West Airport, Knock to enable it to expand to its full potential; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38488/06]
The level of Exchequer funding for capital expenditure at Ireland West Airport Knock and at the other regional airports in the years ahead will be determined within the framework of a new scheme introduced earlier this year by my Department to ensure that such funding is in compliance with the legally-binding EU guidelines on financing of airports which were published towards the end of 2005.
Under the Capital Expenditure Grant Scheme, applications from the regional airports will be assessed by reference to a planning and implementation framework extending to 2010 and a budget of €65 million out of the total of €100 million for which Transport 21 provides up to 2015. As well as the continuation of grant assistance for essential safety and security capital expenditure under the NDP, all regional airports are eligible for capital expenditure grants where demand for additional air services can be demonstrated and where an economic case can be made to justify increased investment.
At my Department's request, all of the regional airports including Ireland West Airport Knock have submitted proposals for funding under the new scheme. These grant applications are being assessed and prioritised by my Department with the assistance of expert advice. That process is well advanced and I expect to be in a position to announce each airport's allocation under the scheme shortly.
460 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the communication he has had with the Marine Accident Investigation Branch regarding the ORA HOPE collision; and the reason for the decision not to undertake an official investigation of the said collision. [38537/06]
I assume the Deputy is referring to the Marine Casualty Investigation Board, (MCIB), which is the Irish marine accident investigation organisation. The MCIB is independent of this Department in the exercise of its functions. As I have previously advised the House the vessel mentioned was subjected to inspection by Port State Control Officers of this Department following the incident and the report of the inspection is published on the website of the Paris Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control: www.parismou.org
461 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to an alternative transport system for Dublin (details supplied); and his Department’s response to same. [38515/06]
I am aware of the proposed "Dargan Plan" which has been described recently in the media and was the subject of a presentation to both my Department and to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Transport of which the Deputy is a member.
There is already a credible, professional and technically robust transportation strategy for Dublin in the form of DTO's "A Platform for Change". This was based on detailed transportation modelling, technical analysis, examination of alternative options and professional judgement and has been accepted by Government as the basis for the Transport 21 investment programme for the Greater Dublin Area.
I also do not accept that the timelines and capital cost estimates suggested in the "Dargan Plan" are realistic. The Government has already taken decisions on Transport 21 and more particularly on the key elements of an integrated transport network for the Greater Dublin Area, based on a robust professional analysis by the DTO and the relevant transport delivery agencies. Over the past year we have developed a growing momentum on the delivery of this investment programme. It is vital that we maintain that momentum rather than begin again a debate about the composition of the investment programme.
462 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Transport 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. [38552/06]
Section 10 of the Roads Act deals with the classification of national, regional and local roads. A national road means a public road or a proposed public road which is classified as a national road under section 10 of the Roads Act, 1993. A regional road means a public road or a proposed public road which is classified as a regional road under section 10 of the Roads Act, 1993.
There is no legal definition for a strategic road or a non-strategic road under section 10 of the Roads Act, 1993. My Department has responsibility for national roads only. Matters concerning non-national roads are the responsibility of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
463 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce a subsidy to encourage the greater availability of wheelchair accessible taxis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38577/06]
My Department's Sectoral Plan for Accessible Transport under the Disability Act 2006 sets out a programme for action on accessibility in a number of key transport areas, including the taxi and hackney sector. The plan in particular sets out actions for increasing the accessibility, availability and affordability of small public service vehicles. On the issue of affordability, the Commission for Taxi Regulation will investigate the possibility of putting in place some form of subsidy or assistance on a pilot basis. I understand that a report on a subsidy proposal for the purchase of accessible small public service vehicles is due to be submitted to my Department by the Commission for Taxi Regulation in the near future.
464 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport the way, in view of Aer Lingus’ recently promulgated schedule of transatlantic services for Summer 2007 wherein the airline proposes to operate a ratio of five flights direct from Dublin to three flights from Shannon, the airline proposes to make up the 1:1 ratio within the 12 month period as required by the current Ireland US Bilateral Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38578/06]
It is a matter for all of the airlines on transatlantic routes (including Aer Lingus) to comply with the terms of the Ireland US Air Transport Agreement. Statistics on landings are furnished to my Department by the airport authority on an ongoing basis and are subject to an annual check. There is no evidence to date of non-compliance by Irish or US carriers.
465 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the schemes or initiatives in the area of public transport that have been suspended or cancelled within his Department since 2002; the amount spent on such schemes to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38592/06]
The period since the establishment of an integrated Department of Transport in 2002 has been marked by good progress in the upgrading of public transport networks and services including, in particular, the revitalization of the railway network, as envisaged in the National Development Plan 2000-2006. Transport 21 provides the framework for future investment in the sector up to 2015. Good progress has also been made in the strengthening of institutional arrangements, through the establishment of a Railway Safety Commission and the decision to establish a Dublin Transport Authority and in plans for the reform of bus market regulation.
Against this background and to the best of my knowledge, no schemes or initiatives in the area of public transport have been suspended or cancelled, since 2002 but policies, programmes and projects in relation to public transport have evolved and been adapted in response, inter alia, to public consultation, detailed analysis and Government consideration and decisions. For example some of the proposals in the National Development Plan 2000-2006 were modified as a result of the recommendations in the Dublin Transportation Office's long term transportation strategy "A Platform for Change".
466 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Transport the number of staff in his Department who have indicated a willingness to decentralise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38598/06]
There are presently 54 members of staff of my Department who have expressed interest in decentralizing out of Dublin.
467 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the amount of funding provided by his Department to the integrated ticketing implementation of the RPA to date; if the team is still funded by his Department; the amount paid to consultants (details supplied) to date; if his Department continues to fund the consultants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38608/06]
474 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the breakdown for the revised budget for the delivery of an integrated ticketing system for public transport in Dublin; if he is confident that this revised figure will be the final cost of the project; if the budget accounts for inflation over the lifetime of its delivery; the new revised date for the delivery of integrated ticketing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38945/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 467 and 474 together.
The position in relation to the Integrated Ticketing Project was set out in the response to Parliamentary Question Numbers 7 and 13 on 2nd November 2006.
I await proposals from the Integrated Ticketing Project Board in relation to scope, timelines and a budget for the phased completion of the integrated ticketing project. I expect these details to be included in the Board's report up to end November 2006.
Some €10.5 million has been paid out to date by the Exchequer on integrated ticketing since commencement of the project in 2002. This includes the RPA's project team costs and associated expertise, namely that of design contractor Sequoia. Sequoia is contracted to the RPA and not to the Department. However, I can confirm that of the €10.5 million Exchequer grant paid out to date, approx. €3.1 million was to cover the work of this contractor. The Department continues to fund the RPA's project team costs and associated expertise, to assist in the preparation of proposals, for the Integrated Ticketing Project Board for the phased completion of the integrated ticketing project.
468 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Bus Éireann services to the town of Carrickmacross on the Dublin Letterkenny Derry routes have been cut back from nine stops each way per day to two and that as a consequence some passengers have been forced to disembark on the busy N2 Carrickmacross by-pass; if he will intervene to return these important services to Carrickmacross in the interest of safety; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38678/06]
The provision of any public bus services on a specific route by a private bus operator is subject to the 1932 Road Transport Act. In the case of the State bus companies, the initiation or alteration of a bus service is subject to compliance with the necessary regulatory requirement of giving advance notice to my Department and to compliance with the provisions of section 25 of the Transport Act 1958 concerning competition with licensed private operators.
My Department has processed a number of applications from Bus Éireann to facilitate a re-organisation of its services on the route in question. These applications provided for the re-routing of services between Letterkenny and Dublin at Carrickmacross and for an increase in services on the Monaghan Dublin route, which will continue to operate through Carrickmacross.
Decisions on the routing of Bus Éireann services are a matter for the determination of the company, subject to compliance with section 25 of the Transport Act 1958.
469 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if he has made representations to the Dublin Airport Authority in view of the concern from people with disabilities over the rumoured moving of the current bus stop outside the arrivals building at Dublin Airport into the short term car park, which would mean that people with disabilities will have further to travel; and if his attention has been drawn to plans to replace the Airlink bus service with a coach service that does not offer full accessibility. [38696/06]
This matter falls within the day-to-day operational responsibilities of the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA), in which I have no function.
470 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the amount of funding allocated to Iarnród Éireann in each of the past five years for the extension and upgrade of parking at railway stations; the amount drawn down in each of these years and the way this money has been spent; the number of extra parking facilities provided in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38697/06]
The provision and maintenance of parking facilities at railway stations is a matter for Irish Rail. While Irish Rail develops parking facilities as part of its rail modernisation programme, my Department has approved in 2006 funding totalling €3.865 million for a feasibility study by Irish Rail on a car park expansion programme and for specific expansion/improvement works at the car parks serving Ennis, Mallow and Leixlip-Louisabridge railway stations. These improvement works will increase the total car parking available at these stations by over 650 spaces. The implementation and funding of more extensive car park expansion and improvement works will be discussed with Irish Rail when the feasibility report referred to above is available. Prior to this year my Department had not provided specifically funding for car park improvement works.
471 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport his views on providing a subsidy to a Galway City private bus operator for the provision of low floor disabled accessible buses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38700/06]
My Department's Sectoral Plan, "Transport for All", drawn up in accordance with the Disability Act 2005 along with the plans of five other Government Departments, was recently approved by both Houses of the Oireachtas.
The Plan does not provide for funding of the nature proposed by the Deputy. The Department has had, however, preliminary discussions with the representative bodies of the private bus sector and Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann with a view to agreeing timescales for the full realisation of accessible bus services in respect of commercial bus services. It is intended that as part of the reform of the bus licensing regime, the obligation to operate low floor wheelchair accessible buses will become a statutory requirement. The Department is currently in discussion with operators in this regard.
472 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport his plans to set up a pilot scheme to admit motorbikes into bus lanes; if there is a risk assessment for the proposal in relation to pedal bikes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38701/06]
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 and all aspects of the proposal will be considered before a final decision is made.
473 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if Dublin Bus intend to introduce a new ticketing system, which involves a disposable card; the details of such a system; if his Department has provided funding to Dublin Bus for such a system; when it is expected that it will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38848/06]
I understand that Dublin Bus is currently replacing its ticketing system which is life-expired. As part of this project the company is developing an interim disposable smartcard which will be brought into operation in late 2007 and which will replace a range of magnetic strip tickets. Dublin Bus is funding this initiative from its own resources.
It is intended that the disposable cards will be withdrawn from sale no later than 12 months from the implementation of the overall integrated ticketing smartcard being developed for the Greater Dublin Area. The Integrated Ticketing Project Board has approved these interim plans in advance of the introduction of the full smartcard system.
475 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport his proposals to introduce on a pilot basis acces to combined bus and cyclelanes for motorcycles; if he will provide details of his proposals in this regard; the reason motorcycles were not originally allowed access to such bus lanes; and if his attention has been drawn to possible road safety implications that may arise from such a change in the regulations. [38954/06]
The primary purpose of bus lanes is to facilitate and promote bus based public transport. Regulations, which have national application, generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists also. Having regard to the role of taxis in providing an on-street immediate hire service, an exemption to the restriction relating to the use of with-flow bus lanes is allowed in respect of taxis when they are being used in the course of business.
Many representations have been received by my Department seeking to extend access to bus lanes in relation to a wide range of other road users. A review of the access issue was carried out in 2001 in consultation with the relevant agencies that took account of the physical characteristics of the vehicles seeking access, including motorcycles. The result of that review was to maintain the existing position with regard to access.
Earlier this year, the Road Safety Authority 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 and all aspects of the proposal, including the safety implications, will be taken into account.
476 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Transport the situation regarding the provision of Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38990/06]
The Aviation Action Plan, adopted by Government in May 2005, mandated the building of a second terminal in Dublin airport by the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA). This decision was driven by the urgent need to provide for additional capacity at the airport in response to the phenomenal growth in passenger numbers there in recent years.
Given this mandate it is now the responsibility of the DAA to proceed with meeting the Government's objective of having this new terminal in place by 2009.
The present position with regard to the proposed new terminal is that the planning application was approved, with conditions, by Fingal County Council in October last. The application was submitted following wide-ranging consultation with users, statutory authorities and other interested parties. Subject to the outcome of the planning process, construction of the new terminal will begin in summer 2007.
The consultants appointed by my Department to verify the specification and cost of T2 concluded that the methodology, approach and execution of the planning objectives and considerations for passengers adopted by the DAA accords with best practice. They also found that the estimated cost of the new terminal is within industry norms for this type of project in a European capital city.
477 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport his position in relation to answering parliamentary questions which relate to road safety and the Road Safety Authority; the reason he has sought to refer such parliamentary questions to the authority and is not in a position to directly provide answers on such questions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38991/06]
The Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Establishment Day) Order 2006 (S.I. No 462 of 2006) established the Road Safety Authority (RSA) with effect from the 1st September 2006. Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) a number of functions relating to road safety such as driver testing, vehicle testing and standards, delivery of the driver theory test, were transferred from my Department to the Road Safety Authority.
Where questions relate to matters which are the responsibility of the RSA it is more appropriate that such questions are directed to the RSA.
478 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if a count is available to his Department of the number of car parking spaces available to commuters at each railway station, LUAS stop, major bus termini and so on; if so if he will provide the information to this Deputy and other information available to him on the demand for car parking at such places. [39012/06]
While my Department makes funding available to public transport operators and local authorities for the development of new parking facilities for commuters, the overall capacity of current car parking facilities is an operational matter for the company, agency, or local authority concerned.
479 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport the position in relation to park and ride facilities planned for Tallaght; if the park and ride facilities for LUAS at Tallaght will be put in place as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39020/06]
Responsibility for the provision of Park and Ride facilities for Luas rests with the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA). The RPA informs me that the facility which is under construction at Tallaght will cater for 450 cars. The development which will include this Park and Ride facility is scheduled to open in December 2007.
Pending the completion of the permanent facility, the RPA has provided Park and Ride arrangements in a temporary facility adjacent to the Tallaght stop at Exchange Hall. These temporary arrangements have been in place since the end of 2004 providing 450 spaces.
480 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport the position in relation to extending the LUAS to Blessington, County Wicklow; if this will be extended in view of the increase in population over the past number of years and the resultant amount of commuters who travel to work in Dublin on a daily basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39025/06]
The Dublin Transportation Office long term transportation strategy A Platform for Change provides the basis for the Transport 21 investment programme in the Greater Dublin Area. It did not recommend the provision of Luas to serve the Blessington area within the timeframe of the strategy.
481 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport the position in relation to introducing a shuttle bus to the Tallaght LUAS serving the Blessington area running every 15 minutes between 6am to 9am and 4pm to 7pm; if, in view of the number of persons who commute from this area he will introduce this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39026/06]
The provision of any public bus services on a specific route by a private bus operator is subject to the 1932 Road Transport Act. In the case of the State bus companies, the initiation or alteration of a bus service is subject to compliance with the necessary regulatory requirement of giving advance notice to my Department and to compliance with the provisions of section 25 of the Transport Act 1958 concerning competition with licensed private operators.
My Department has not received any applications from private bus operators, or notifications from the State bus companies for shuttle bus services to the Tallaght LUAS line serving the Blessington area as referred to by the Deputy.
482 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Transport if, in view of the frequent incidences of cardiac incidents with air passengers, he will take the necessary steps to oblige airlines to carry defibrillators on all shorthaul flights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39109/06]
Aviation is subject to international rules relating to safety matters laid down in the Convention on International Civil Aviation (known as the Chicago Convention) and by the European Union and the Joint Aviation Authority.
The determination of regulatory requirements relating to medical equipment that is appropriate for carriage on aircraft needs to be informed by professional judgement taking account of a range of issues including the state of medical technology, issues relating to diagnosis and appropriate administration of medical treatment, risks arising from inappropriate use of medicines or equipment and the probability of various medical conditions occurring on board. There are clearly also cost considerations relating to equipment and appropriate training of staff that have to be taken into account.
These issues are best addressed in the light of a widely based overview of actual experience of medical conditions occurring on board aircraft by the responsible international bodies. It is difficult for any one country in isolation to assemble the necessary overview and to ensure that there is an appropriate balance between protecting the welfare of passengers and the overall costs. The medical panel of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) is keeping the carriage of defibrillators on aircraft under active consideration.
The IAA is carrying out an investigation following a recent death on board an Irish aircraft. I will consider, in the light of the outcome of this investigation whether any further action on this matter is appropriate. This could for example take the form of an approach to ICAO or the European Commission.
483 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will make amendments to the Official Languages Act 2003; his views on whether Section 9 needs amending to make traffic signs, advertising and national logos bilingual; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38582/06]
As I have already indicated on the record of the House, these regulations have been published and laid before each House of the Oireachtas in draft form. This is in order to give Deputies and Senators the opportunity to debate the draft regulations and to make suggestions for amendments, if they so wish, before I sign them.
I look forward to debating the draft regulations in the Dáil and Seanad in the near future and to hearing suggestions and comments from Deputies and Senators.
484 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of staff in his Department who have indicated willingness to decentralise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38593/06]
My Department is committed to relocating 140 posts to new headquarters at Knock Airport and 10 posts to the Department's offices in Na Forbacha.
The decentralisation process is now well advanced — 68 posts have already been assigned to temporary offices in Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo, which opened in July of this year. OPW have indicated that a new headquarters building will be in place at Knock Airport by mid 2008 and those posts will then be relocated to the new building.
Of the 10 posts to go to Na Forbacha, 8 posts have been relocated there and I expect the balance to be in place in 2007.
The number of original staff of the Department who agreed to relocate to Knock Airport or Na Forbacha was 18. However, we were very well subscribed at most grades, through the CAF system, by staff of the wider Civil Service who wished to relocate with the Department.
With the progress achieved to date, and in view of the fact that there is still a large number of other staff available to transfer in to the Department under the CAF arrangements, I am satisfied that we will be able to meet all of our staffing requirements in both locations in the required timeframe.
485 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will roll out the CLÁR Programme to the remaining parts of north Kerry not covered by the scheme; and the benefits of the RAPID scheme in Tralee, County Kerry since its introduction. [39048/06]
In early April I announced new measures under the Clár Programme in the existing CLÁR areas and an extension into parts of five new counties (Wicklow, Carlow, Laois, Kilkenny and Offaly). This brings the total number of counties covered by the Programme to 23 and increases the population benefiting from the Programme to nearly 727,000. I have no plans at present for any further expansion.
With regard to the RAPID Programme, Tralee, along with 19 other provincial towns, was included in the Programme in 2002. As I have indicated to the House on a number of occasions, it is a matter for individual Departments to report progress with their projects under the RAPID programme. In support of my Department, Pobal collects data from each RAPID area in respect of funding allocations received by projects from Government Departments and local state agencies. The latest data in respect of the programme are available on Pobal's website under the RAPID section (http://www.pobal.ie/live/RAPID). The Deputy may find it helpful to access this information. I understand that full data in respect of the year 2006 will not be collected until early 2007.
The Deputy will be aware that I launched the RAPID Leverage Fund in 2004 to support small-scale projects identified by the Area Implementation Schemes. Examples include increased funding to Tralee Town Council to develop:
New playgrounds in Rahoonane and St. Martins Park;
Fencing basketball/tennis courts in Spa Road;
20 car parking spaces in Spa Road/ Balloonagh;
Dyke area in Shanakill/Rahoonane;
Repairs to footpaths;
Traffic calming-ramps and pedestrian crossings;
Community gardens;
CCTV cameras to improve community safety.
486 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason the promised €20,000 matching funding to a centre (details supplied) in Co. Monaghan has not been made available; when the funds will be advanced to the resource centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39098/06]
Community-based projects attracting less than 50% public funding under LEADER may qualify for CLÁR top-up funding subject to certain conditions. Applications are made to the local LEADER group.
To date, the Department has not received an application for funding from the Cavan-Monaghan Rural Development Co-op Society Ltd on behalf of Rockcorry Development Association.
487 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the details of grant aid for abattoirs for export plants as recently announced; the agency that will implement same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38474/06]
In keeping with commitments given in the Agri-Vision 2015 Action Plan, I recently announced a beef and sheepmeat processing sector investment package totalling some €50 million. This grant assistance, which should trigger investment of some €120 million, is yet another clear indication of the Government's commitment to the continued development of a modern, competitive, innovative and market-focused food industry.
Financial support will be made available towards the cost of the construction and acquisition of buildings, new machinery and equipment and will significantly assist the industry in improving efficiency and competitiveness. The positive response of the beef and sheepmeat sectors to the challenges presented in an ever-changing market in recent years has been a major contributor to the enhanced status and reputation of Irish produce abroad.
Beef and sheepmeat are a vital component of the agri-food industry, with beef exports alone amounting to almost one-fifth of total Irish food and drink exports in 2005. This investment package will assist in the further development of these sectors and in so doing, will not only strengthen primary processing, but also underpin agricultural incomes.
The scheme will be managed by Enterprise Ireland who will evaluate the suitability of investment projects submitted for grant assistance. Further details, including eligibility criteria and terms and conditions of the scheme will be announced in the near future.
488 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a single farm payment for 2006 will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38475/06]
The person named submitted an application under Category C of the 2005 Single Payment Scheme National Reserve which caters for farmers who sold their milk quota into the Milk Quota Restructuring Scheme and converted their enterprise to 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 to 2002. The person named was deemed successful under this category and was allocated a top-up from the National Reserve.
Under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme National Reserve successful applicants under Category C of the 2005 National Reserve will now be eligible for a top-up from the 2006 National Reserve to reflect the increased value of the Dairy Premium in 2006. My Department will automatically apply this top-up and the farmers concerned need not make an application to the 2006 National Reserve. The person named will now be due an additional top-up which will be applied to his 2006 Single Payment. Provisions are currently being made to apply this top-up and it is expected that this will be in place soon.
The person named has received a 50% advance payment of the 2006 Single Payment and the balancing payment will include the additional allocation from the 2006 National Reserve.
489 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will approve a substantial ex gratia grant to a group (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the good works they are carrying out for animal welfare. [38476/06]
My Department has in recent years made ex gratia payments to a number of bodies involved in the actual delivery of animal care and welfare services throughout the country. The funding available to any individual organisation is dependent on resources available and the level of demand and is therefore intended only as a contribution to the overall costs of the organisations. Until 2004, these ex gratia payments were made from residual funds available in my Department’s vote at the end of the year. However from 2004, specific provisions for this purpose have been included in the Department’s estimates.
I will be making decisions in the next few weeks on payments to those bodies, including the body named, which have made applications for funding in respect of 2007.
490 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a senior officer from her Department will meet with persons (details supplied) in County Wexford to discuss the ongoing problems with their single payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38516/06]
The persons named submitted applications under the Single Payment Scheme in April 2006. The outstanding issues in relation to the transfer of Entitlements are currently being resolved. An official from my Department has made arrangements to meet the persons named to discuss these issues.
491 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when area aid payment will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38529/06]
An application under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 2 May 2006. Following computer validation, the 19.65 hectares declared by the applicant is confirmed as eligible under the Scheme. However, an issue in relation to the required minimum stocking level was identified and an official from my Department will make direct contact with the person named in the matter. Payment under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme can only issue where the minimum stocking density level of 0.15 livestock units per hectare is met.
492 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding the application for inclusion under the national reserve by a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38530/06]
The person named submitted an application for an allocation of entitlements from the 2006 Single Payment Scheme National Reserve under Category B.
Category B caters for farmers who commenced farming after 31 December, 2002 or who commenced farming in 2002 but who received no direct payments in respect of that scheme year.
The position is that processing of the 2006 National Reserve applications will commence shortly and the intention is to make allocations to successful applicants at the earliest opportunity.
A formal letter outlining my Department's decision on the National Reserve will issue to the person named as soon as his application has been processed.
493 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will confirm receipt of NRTE form completed by a person (details supplied) in County Offaly; when she will process this application; and when the applicant will receive receipt of payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38536/06]
An application for the Transfer of Entitlements to the person named under the Single Payment Scheme was submitted on the 26th of October 2006. The application was accepted even though the closing date for receipt of completed applications to transfer entitlements was 16 May 2006.
The application was examined and further documentation is required. An official from my Department contacted the person named on the 16th of November and requested the specific documentation.
Upon receipt of the documentation my Department will process the application and will correspond directly with the person named.
494 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if her attention has been drawn to the fact that Ireland has been put on a shortlist of countries that are among the world’s worst forestry operators; and if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that several environmental groups have called for Ireland to be stripped of its Forestry Stewardship Council accreditation. [38562/06]
I am aware of a list compiled by some environmental groups claiming that a number of companies in eight different countries should not benefit from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification.
The FSC, which is an international network promoting responsible management of the world's forests, certifies forest companies not countries. In Ireland, Coillte and a number of privately owned forests have been certified by the FSC and the Coillte certification was reconfirmed by the FSC earlier this year.
495 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the criteria for persons with disabilities for seeking employment opportunities within her Department; the application procedures that apply; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38580/06]
The majority of staff in my Department are recruited through competitions held by the Public Appointments Service (PAS). PAS also hold special competitions for people with a disability from which candidates may be assigned to my Department.
My Department conducts interviews for direct recruitment in respect of a small number of unestablished grades from time to time. People with a disability who satisfy the eligibility criteria, which is based on the skills necessary to do the job, are eligible to compete in these competitions.
496 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the percentage of the national herd on which artificial insemination is being used for breeding purposes; if she is satisfied that enough effort is being made to encourage the use of high quality breeding stock through this system; if not, her plans to encourage this system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38709/06]
In 2005 (the most recent year in which full year statistics are available) there were a total of 2.350 million cows in Ireland and between 35 and 40% of these cows were bred to artificial insemination (27% via AI technician service and the remainder via DIY AI).
These figures are low by international standards, with AI usage figures of greater than 80% being reported in other developed countries. As AI permits the use of superior proven genetics to be used on a widespread basis allowing for rapid improvement in the National herd, I am concerned at the low and falling uptake of the service that has taken place over the last number of years.
In 2006 I was therefore delighted to be in a position to provide €67,000 towards the cost of an initiative developed by all partners in the industry designed to lead to the increase in the uptake of AI. The involvements of parties such as AI companies, Teagasc and ICBF led to a focused education and promotion campaign through the Spring of 2006.
Preliminary figures for the 2006 AI season indicate that the decline in AI usage has been arrested, with an increase in being reported by many of the AI companies.
Plans are underway for further AI promotion. My Department has already facilitated three meetings of all industry stakeholders recently with a view to organizing a Spring and Autumn 2007 campaign. I am awaiting industry proposals outlining an A.I. campaign involving both Department and industry based on matching funding. I will make a decision on funding for my Department when the proposals are submitted to me.
My Department is fully committed to increasing the uptake of AI in the National herd, and I am always open and positive towards any industry initiative that will help farmers achieve better profits on their farms.
497 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if progress is being made to extend the age of animals that have to be tested for BSE; her views on whether the present regime is no longer necessary in view of the drop in BSE numbers and the fact that no animal under 36 months was ever found with same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38710/06]
The requirement that all bovine animals over 30 months of age, slaughtered for human consumption, must be tested for BSE is provided for in Regulation (EC) No. 999/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council, laying down rules for the prevention, control and eradication of certain transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs). Under the Regulation, as it currently stands, I have no discretion to raise the age limit at which bovines destined for human consumption must be tested.
Regulation (EC) No 999/2001 is currently in the process of being revised, though it is not now anticipated that the proposed amendments will become law before the end of next month. The amendments, as currently drafted, would enable Member States to seek the approval of the Commission and other Member States for revisions to their annual monitoring programmes to change the age limit for testing for BSE in healthy animals slaughtered for human consumption. Such applications would be on the basis of a range of criteria relating to the BSE situation and controls in the particular country. These criteria have yet to be determined and may yet take some time to finalise.
I, and my officials, have made repeated and consistent efforts to have the age thresholds for the various categories of animals changed, based on the results of surveillance carried out here and I will, of course, continue to press for a change in the age threshold at every opportunity.
498 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of farmers in County Cavan who have received the first instalment of their single farm payment; the number still awaiting payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38711/06]
Applications were received from 5,232 Cavan herd owners under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme and, to date, the 50% advance payment has issued to approximately 95% of these applicants. In common with the coupled schemes, which the Single Payment Scheme replaced, delays in processing can be caused by many factors, including incomplete application forms, errors on applications and discrepancies highlighted following computer validation, which must be resolved via correspondence with the applicant. The majority of those cases, which have yet to receive an advance payment, are where applicants did not submit an application to transfer the Single Payment entitlements, with lands, by way of inheritance, gift, lease or purchase. My Department will continue to issue payments to farmers, as outstanding problems are resolved. Balancing payments under the 2006 Scheme are scheduled to commence on 1 December 2006.
499 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of farmers in County Monaghan who have received the first instalment of their single farm payment; the number still awaiting payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38712/06]
Applications were received from 4,357 Monaghan herd owners under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme and, to date, the 50% advance payment has issued to approximately 95% of these applicants. In common with the coupled schemes, which the Single Payment Scheme replaced, delays in processing can be caused by many factors, including incomplete application forms, errors on applications and discrepancies highlighted following computer validation, which must be resolved via correspondence with the applicant. The majority of those cases, which have yet to receive an advance payment, are where applicants did not submit an application to transfer the Single Payment entitlements, with lands, by way of inheritance, gift, lease or purchase. My Department will continue to issue payments to farmers, as outstanding problems are resolved. Balancing payments under the 2006 Scheme are scheduled to commence on 1 December 2006.
501 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food further to her announcement on 13 November 2006 on the payment of the ERS top-up, when her Department became aware of the acceptability of the EU to an Exchequer top-up of the ERS pension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38722/06]
My Department had raised the possibility of an increase in the rates of pension payable under the Early Retirement Schemes with the European Commission on a number of occasions. The Commission's consistent response was that increases for existing participants would not be eligible for EU funding and that index linking was ruled out by the EU Regulations. I therefore decided to explore the possibility of paying increases from the national exchequer. However it was necessary to satisfy the Commission Services that such increases would be admissible under the EU Regulations governing the payment of State Aids. This required some correspondence and direct discussion at official level. It was in March 2006 that I received confirmation from the Commission that they would not oppose the payment of the increases. These increases will cost some €33 million extra over the remaining period of the two Schemes, and some 5,000 retired farmers will benefit from them.
502 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the single farm payment entitlement has been transferred by way of inheritance and payment issued to a person (details supplied); the date and value of the payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38723/06]
Single Payment entitlements to the value of €970.34 have been transferred to the person named by way of inheritance. However, Single Payment applications were not received in either 2005 or 2006 from the person named. Payment for 2005 can only be made to the representatives of the person who transferred the entitlements by inheritance, as they had submitted a Single Payment application for that year. Arrangements to implement this payment will be made shortly.
The person named cannot be paid for 2006 as a Single Payment application has not been received. The deadline for receipt of Single Payment applications for 2006 was in May of this year. However, it may be possible for the person named to transfer the inherited entitlements for 2006 and in this regard an official from my Department will be in touch with her to ascertain if she wishes to pursue this option.
503 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of Government inspections under the EC Egg Marketing Regulations that have been carried out in each county since the coming into force of those regulations; the number of times, possible illegal practices have been detected on foot of these inspections; the action taken to remove the possibility of such possible illegal practices; the number of eggs and the part of the UK from which they have been imported into Ireland during each of the past five years; and if the eggs imported into Ireland from the UK are affected by the ongoing investigation by the UK DEFRA into possible illegal practices in the UK egg industry. [38929/06]
Table 1 sets out the number of inspections carried out and infringements detected in the past five years under the egg marketing standards regulations. The breakdown by county is not immediately available and will be supplied to the Deputy as soon as the information is compiled. Infringements of the regulations are always dealt with by a letter to the relevant operator requiring corrective action as well as, where warranted, the seizure and destruction of eggs and follow-up inspections to check compliance. There is also the legal option of de-registering packing centres.
The CSO is responsible for the collection of statistics in relation to imports of eggs and egg products. Table 2 sets out the details on imports from the UK over the last five years as supplied by that office.
The DEFRA investigation into possible illegal practices in the UK egg industry is still ongoing. The preliminary information available from the investigation does not indicate that the eggs in question moved from the UK to Ireland. One of the issues being investigated by DEFRA is whether some of the eggs in question originated in Ireland and/or Northern Ireland. My Department will be co-operating with the investigation as necessary.
|
Total Number of Egg Inspections and Infringements |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Year |
Inspections |
Infringements |
|
2006 (to date) |
2,156 |
156 |
|
2005 |
2,817 |
291 |
|
2004 |
1,899 |
215 |
|
2003 |
2,112 |
185 |
|
2002 |
1,685 |
165 |
|
2005 |
Birds Eggs in Shell Fresh Preserved or Cooked |
Birds’ Eggs Not in Shell, and Egg Yolks: Dried |
Birds’ Eggs, Not in Shell, & Egg Yolks: Other than Dried |
Egg Albumin |
Totals |
|
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
|
|
GB |
1,426 |
221 |
495 |
91 |
2,233 |
|
Northern Ireland |
2,776 |
5 |
105 |
2,886 |
|
2004 |
Birds Eggs in Shell Fresh Preserved or Cooked |
Birds’ Eggs Not in Shell, and Egg Yolks: Dried |
Birds’ Eggs, Not in Shell, & Egg Yolks: Other than Dried |
Egg Albumin |
Totals |
|
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
|
|
GB |
1,613 |
270 |
295 |
124 |
2,302 |
|
Northern Ireland |
1,817 |
3 |
104 |
1,924 |
|
2003 |
Birds Eggs in Shell Fresh Preserved or Cooked |
Birds’ Eggs Not in Shell, and Egg Yolks: Dried |
Birds’ Eggs, Not in Shell, & Egg Yolks: Other than Dried |
Egg Albumin |
Totals |
|
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
|
|
GB |
1,262 |
170 |
126 |
99 |
1,657 |
|
Northern Ireland |
1,689 |
1 |
87 |
1,777 |
|
2002 |
Birds Eggs in Shell Fresh Preserved or Cooked |
Birds’ Eggs Not in Shell, and Egg Yolks: Dried |
Birds’ Eggs, Not in Shell, & Egg Yolks: Other than Dried |
Egg Albumin |
Totals |
|
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
|
|
GB |
1,272 |
108 |
115 |
59 |
1,554 |
|
Northern Ireland |
251 |
25 |
79 |
355 |
|
2001 |
Birds Eggs in Shell Fresh Preserved or Cooked |
Birds’ Eggs Not in Shell, and Egg Yolks: Dried |
Birds’ Eggs, Not in Shell, & Egg Yolks: Other than Dried |
Egg Albumin |
Totals |
|
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
tonnes |
|
|
GB |
1,510 |
423 |
191 |
183 |
2,307 |
|
Northern Ireland |
493 |
52 |
161 |
706 |
504 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if her attention has been drawn to the low qualification threshold for young farmers who want to purchase entitlements, particularly the qualifying criteria for new entrants in view of the low off farm income limit that currently exists; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that the single payment 2006 EU regulations state that total off farm income must not exceed €20,000; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that this level of off farm income appears to be very low when compared with the farm waste management scheme and others; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38971/06]
The position is that Single Payment Entitlements may be sold with or without land but may only be sold without land when at least 80% of the entitlements have been used in one calendar year. The regulations also set out provisions for a claw-back on the sale of entitlements (with and without land) that Member States may apply in order to replenish the National Reserve. In this context the regulations provide that no claw-back should be applied when entitlements are sold to a new entrant to farming. The Member State is free to determine the qualifying criteria that should be applied in defining a new entrant to farming but the baseline is that the new entrant must not have been engaged in an agricultural activity at his/her own risk during the previous 5 years. The qualifying criteria for a new entrant under the Single Payment Scheme, including the threshold for off-farm income, were agreed following detailed discussions at the Single Payment Advisory Committee which was set up to advise on issues relating to the Single Payment Scheme. The Committee comprises representatives from my Department, the farming organisations and Teagasc. The arrangements for clawback, including the definition of a new entrant to farming, are subject to a review on an annual basis. It should be noted that clawback for entitlements sold in respect of the 2007 scheme year has been reduced from 30% to 15% (for entitlements sold without land) and from 5% to 2.5% (for entitlements sold with land).
505 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Limerick will be assessed for the farm waste management scheme. [39006/06]
The person concerned is an applicant under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. Approval to commence the investment works was issued by my Department to the applicant on 1 November 2006.
506 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cavan will be awarded the area aid and single payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39033/06]
The position is that an application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Area Compensatory Allowance Scheme was received from the person named on the 18th April 2006. The application was selected for an on-the-spot ground eligibility and cross-compliance inspection that was carried out on the 9th of October 2006. The applicant was not present at the time of inspection.
The inspecting officer was not satisfied the applicant was resident at the address as given on the Single Payment scheme/Disadvantaged Area Compensatory Allowance Scheme application form. A notice was sent to the person named indicating this. If the person named is not satisfied with the result of the inspection, he may seek a review by contacting his Local Office. He also has the right to appeal the outcome of any such review.
507 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the action she is taking to ensure that the former employees of Greencore, Mallow are paid their full and correct compensation as agreed by the Labour Court; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39046/06]
I presume that the Deputy is referring to the EU restructuring aid for the sugar industry, which in Ireland's case is worth €145 million approximately. The aid, as provided for in Council Regulation (EC) No 320/2006, is to cover the economic, social and environmental costs of restructuring the sugar industry involving factory closure and renunciation of quota. In July 2006 the Government decided on the percentage of the aid to be reserved for beet growers and contractors and provided an indicative breakdown of the potential allocation of the aid to be followed by Greencore in preparing its restructuring plan, including a figure of €28.4 million for employee redundancy payments. This figure as well as others in the Government decision was based on information previously supplied by Greencore. These decisions are now the subject of judicial review proceedings instituted by Greencore in the High Court.
The position regarding the Labour Court recommendation was outlined by my colleague, the Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Killeen, when the Deputy raised the matter on the Adjournment on 25 October 2006.
508 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 576 of 24 October 2006 (details supplied), if the transport liaison officer has investigated the matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38479/06]
Under the terms of my Department's Post Primary School Transport Scheme, a pupil is eligible for transport if he or she resides 4.8 kilometres or more from his or her local post primary education centre, that is, the centre serving the catchment area in which he or she lives. The scheme is not designed to facilitate parents who chose 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 own post primary centre have been catered for. Such children have to make their own way to the nearest pick up point within that catchment area. The pupils referred to by the Deputy in the details provided are availing of Catchment Boundary transport and are responsible for making their own way to the pick up point.
509 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the efforts being made to resolve the problem with the Internet payment system for substitute teachers wages; the efforts being made to prevent the problem happening again; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38481/06]
A new web based system which enables Secondary and community/Comprehensive schools to input claims for the payment of casual and non casual teachers and special need assistants and record teacher absences on line from the school was introduced on the 6th November. During the first week of operation there were some technical difficulties with the system. These difficulties were resolved and the system is working satisfactorily. In the first payroll schedule for the payment of the casual and non casual teachers in excess of seventy thousand claims have been processed using the new system.
510 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will assist schools (details supplied) on capitation grant, high insurance costs, special needs education, class size and the urgent need to fund these schools adequately. [38482/06]
There have been significant improvements in recent years in the level of funding for voluntary secondary schools, including the schools referred to by the Deputy. In addition to the €12 per pupil increase in 2006 in the standard per capita grant that now stands at €298 per pupil, voluntary secondary schools have benefited additionally by the increase of €14 per pupil in 2006 in the support services grant bringing the overall grant to €159 per pupil.
I wish to draw the attention of the Deputy to my announcement of further significant increases in the context of the 2007 estimates. From 1 January next the standard per capita grant will be increased by a further €18 to €316 per pupil. In addition, the support services grant will be increased by a further €30 for voluntary secondary schools, which includes a further equalisation measure, to €189 per pupil. For such schools this cumulative increase of €48 per pupil will bring the aggregate grant to over €500 per pupil from 1 January next. These grants are in addition to the per capita funding of up to €40,000 per school that is also provided by my Department to secondary schools towards secretarial and caretaking services.
For a secondary school with 500 pupils, this will bring annual grants towards general expenses and support service to over €290,000. Schools are afforded considerable flexibility in the use of resources to cater for the needs of their pupils. This is in my view, in general, a preferable approach to putting in place grants for specific cost items, including those referred to by the Deputy.
Significant improvements have also been made in the staffing of our second level schools in recent years. With the creation of over 2,000 additional posts and the retention of over 2,100 posts which would otherwise have been lost due to the fall in enrolments, there is now one teacher for every 13 students at second level.
There has also been enormous progress in relation to increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special education needs. At second level, approximately 1,854 whole time equivalent additional teachers are in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to the approximately 200 teachers that were in place in 1998 for such pupils. In addition, there are 534 whole time equivalent learning support teachers and approximately 1,365 whole time equivalent special needs assistants in our second level schools.
The provision that I have made, in the context of the 2007 estimates, for these significant increases in the funding of voluntary secondary schools is a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of schools.
511 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will assist a school (details supplied) in County Limerick with their application for a small-scale permanent accommodation grant; and if she will further assist this school to meet the requirements of the children in their care with extra facilities. [38483/06]
School Planning Section of my Department is in receipt of an application for the Small Schools Scheme 2007 from the school referred to by the Deputy. The closing date for this devolved scheme was 27 October 2006. The application will be assessed by my officials and publication of the list of successful applicants for the scheme will be published as soon as possible.
512 D’fhiafraigh Mr. M. Higgins den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta an bhfuil suíomh aimsithe do Ghaelscoil Dara, An Rinn Mhór, i gcathair na Gaillimhe agus an bhfuil an t-iarstáisiún aimsire san áireamh. [38520/06]
Dheimhnigh Coimisinéirí na nOibreacha Poiblí le gairid leis an Roinn nach bhfuil an suíomh i gceist ar fáil le breithniú mar shuíomh scoile nua. Tá mo Roinn gafa go gníomhach faoi láthair ag lorg suímh oiriúnaigh nua chun foirgneamh buan a thógáil don scoil a dtagraíonn an Teachta di. Is féidir leis an Teachta a bheith cinnte de go bhfuiltear ag tabhairt aghaidh ar riachtanais bhuanchóiríochta na scoile i gceist chomh tapaidh agus is féidir agus go gcuirfear soláthar foirgnimh bhuain don scoil chun cinn i gcomhthéacs an Chláir um Thógáil agus Athchóiriú Scoileanna.
513 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department will increase the investment in second level education here; if her attention has been drawn to the recent OECD report which shows that Ireland is almost at the bottom of the international league in terms of investment in second level education relative to the country’s economic wealth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38521/06]
The most recent OECD Education At A Glance report provides figures for 2003/04 which fail to reflect the major increases in second level funding in recent years. Spending by my Department on second level education has increased dramatically since 2003. In 2005, €2.7 billion was spent on second-level education — up from €2.3 billion in 2003 and €1.25 billion in 1997. The Estimates provision for second level education is €2.9 billion, while in the 2007 Estimates we have provided €3.2 billion for investment in second level education next year. This means that we are allocating 54% more for second level education in 2007 than we did in 2002.
The increases provided by this Government have allowed for major progress to be made both in the staffing and in the day-to-day funding of our schools. Since the financial year referred to in the OECD report — 2003 — second-level schools have benefited from substantial increases in funding for their day-to-day costs. The standard capitation grant of €266 per pupil in 2003 now stands at €298 per pupil and the support services grant for secondary schools has been increased from €127 per pupil in 2003 to €159 per pupil in 2006.
I wish to draw the attention of the Deputy to my announcement of further significant increases in the context of the 2007 estimates. From 1 January next the standard per capita grant will be increased by a further €18 to €316 per pupil. In addition, for voluntary secondary schools the support services grant will be increased by €30 per student, which includes a further equalisation measure, to €189 per pupil. This aggregate increase of €48 per pupil will bring the cumulative increase in the per capita and support services grants for voluntary schools since 2003 to €112 per pupil. These grants are in addition to the per capita funding of up to €40,000 per school that is also provided by my Department to secondary schools towards secretarial and caretaking services. Significant improvements have also been made in the staffing of our second level schools in recent years. With the creation of over 2,000 additional posts and the retention of over 2,100 posts which would otherwise have been lost due to the fall in enrolments, there is now one teacher for every 13 students at second level.
The provision that I have made, in the context of the 2007 estimates, for these significant increases in the funding of secondary schools is a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of schools.
514 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science when the necessary finance will be provided for an extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38531/06]
The School Planning Section of the Department is in receipt of an application for major capital funding 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 is being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme from 2007 onwards.
515 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received correspondence from a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in relation to the DEIS scheme; if her attention has been drawn to the school’s commitment to tackle education disadvantage in the local area through such means as a homework club, courses for parents and art therapy, in co-operation with the home school co-ordinator and school completion programme services; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that in the period of the appointment of a new principal teacher the school did not formally seek retention of its disadvantaged status under the new DEIS programme; if she will give an assurance that there will be no change to the school’s status, as is requested and supported by other schools in the HSCL cluster and by the school completion programme; if she will confirm that the school will continue to have the services of a home school community liaison co-ordinator; if she will offer the school, as an exceptional measure and if necessary, a further opportunity to appeal a decision adverse to its position including making a case in relation to significant development in the immediate catchment area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38538/06]
DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), the action plan for educational inclusion, provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage. DEIS will bring together, and build upon, a number of existing interventions in schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage. The process of identifying primary and second-level schools for participation in DEIS was managed by the Educational Research Centre (ERC) on behalf of my Department and supported by quality assurance work co-ordinated through the Department's regional offices and the Inspectorate.
As a result of the identification process, 840 schools were invited to participate in the SSP. These comprised 640 primary schools (320 urban/town schools and 320 rural schools) and 200 second-level schools. A review mechanism was put in place to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in the School Support Programme but regarded themselves as having a level of disadvantage which is of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. The review process operated under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification processes and procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review.
The closing date for receipt of review applications was Friday, 31st March, 2006. An application for review was not received from the school referred to by the Deputy. The Group has submitted a final report and the review process is now concluded. Schools which have not qualified for the new School Support Programme and which are receiving additional resources, both human and financial, under pre-existing schemes and programmes for addressing concentrated disadvantage, will retain these supports for 2006/2007. After that, schools will continue to get support in line with the level of disadvantage among their pupils.
The DEIS action plan states that, as well as the provision being made for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage, financial support will also continue to be provided for primary schools where the level of disadvantage is more dispersed. The correspondence referred to by the Deputy has recently been received in the Social Inclusion Unit of my Department and an acknowledgement has been issued to the school. My officials will be in further contact with the school in this regard.
516 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the number of new families moving into an area whose children may not yet be of school age, she will consider taking over a school (details supplied) in Dublin 8 which would otherwise be closed due to the fact that those operating it state that there is not currently sufficient demand; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38544/06]
The decision to close the school to which the Deputy refers was taken by the school's Trustees. It was decided that the closure would take place on a phased basis, culminating with full closure in June 2007. Thanks, in part, to the co-operation of another school in the immediate area, students from the school referred to by the Deputy have been accommodated. While the Department is satisfied that there is adequate capacity available at primary level in the general area to serve the current demand for pupil places, it will continue to monitor the situation.
517 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason retired school attendance officers have yet to receive a pay award due to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38549/06]
The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) was established under the National Education (Welfare) Act, 2000 as an independent statutory body with responsibilities as set out in the Act. Personnel and payroll issues relating to retired school attendance officers, who were formerly employed by the NEWB, are an operational matter for the Board. In relation to the issue raised by the Deputy I have been informed by the NEWB that payment will be made within the next two weeks.
518 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if school transport has been arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38564/06]
In view of the nature of the transport arrangements available to the family in question my Department has worked closely with Bus Éireann in an effort to provide a more suitable service.
A letter has issued to the family explaining the position, and offering a remote area grant towards the cost of transport.
519 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the situation in some primary and secondary level schools who cater for school children with visual impairment in the Tallaght and Rathfarnham area who are currently without a visiting teacher as no replacement has been found for the current visiting teacher who is out of work ill; and if she will assure those concerned parents that a replacement visiting teacher will be located as a matter of urgency. [38565/06]
An experienced visiting teacher for the visually impaired has been and is currently in place providing full cover for the permanent visiting teacher.
If there are any queries from parents, this replacement visiting teacher can be contacted directly by mobile phone, as she has been and is using the same phone number as the permanent visiting teacher whom she is replacing.
520 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if, with regard to a school (details supplied) in County Sligo, she will confirm that a site has been identified; if tenders have been sought; the cost for the school; when work will commence; the date it will be finished; the amount of money that has been ring-fenced for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38600/06]
I understand that the Management Authority of the school referred to by the Deputy is in consultation with Sligo County Council for the acquisition of a site for the provision of a new school.
The school referred to by the Deputy was included in my recent announcement of projects which have been approved to progress to architectural planning. It is not possible at this point to indicate when the architectural planning process will be completed.
521 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of education welfare officers in the Dublin area; the number of schools which have a full time education welfare officer to look after their needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38609/06]
The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) was established under The Education (Welfare) Act, 2000 as the single national body with responsibility for school attendance. The Act provides a comprehensive framework which promotes regular school attendance and tackles the problems of absenteeism and early school leaving. The general functions of the Board are to ensure that every child attends a recognised school or otherwise receives a certain minimum education.
The Board is developing a nationwide service on a continuing basis that is accessible to schools, parents/guardians and others concerned with the welfare of young people. For this purpose, Educational Welfare Officers (EWOs) have been deployed throughout the country to provide a welfare-focused service to support regular school attendance and discharge the Board's functions locally. The total authorised staffing complement of the Board is 94 comprising 16 HQ and support staff, 5 regional managers, 12 Senior EWO's and 61 EWO's. Five regional teams are in place with bases in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford.
In deploying its service staff, the NEWB has prioritised the provision of services to the most disadvantaged areas and the most at-risk groups. This deployment includes areas designated under the Government's RAPID programme where an intensive full level of service is provided. Since September 2005 every county in Ireland is served by an educational welfare service.
In addition to the NEWB personnel there are some 490 staff, within the education sector, deployed in education disadvantage programmes whose work involves an element of school attendance and significant scope exists for integrated working between these personnel and Educational Welfare Officers. My Department is anxious to ensure that the maximum benefit is derived from these substantial personnel resources. Consequently work is ongoing to develop appropriate protocols for all agencies and services to work together in collaboration and to ensure that optimum use is made of the resources deployed including NEWB resources. It is anticipated that the outcome of this work will inform my Department on the staffing requirement for the NEWB into the future.
This government is determined to do all that is possible to ensure that every child gets all the opportunities and support they need to enable them to achieve their potential and participate fully in education. I will be keeping the issue of the NEWB's staffing under review in light of the rollout of services, the scope for integrated working and any proposals that the Board may put to me in relation to clearly identified priority needs.
In relation to Deputy's query regarding the number of Educational Welfare Officers in the Dublin area, the NEWB has informed officials of my Department that 31 service delivery staff (EWOs and Senior EWOs) are deployed throughout Dublin. The service is available to all primary and post-primary schools in the Dublin area and in keeping with its national strategy the NEWB has prioritised the provision of services to the most disadvantaged areas and the most at-risk groups.
522 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the ongoing transport problems for children attending a school (details supplied) in County Carlow; if she has satisfied herself that pupil safety is not at risk; and if she will ensure that the bus service is improved to accommodate the needs of both parents and pupils. [38618/06]
The case referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied has been considered by the School Transport Appeals Board who found that the present level of service to the school in question is reasonable and that the benefits of an exclusive service would not justify the costs involved.
In view of the further issue raised by the Deputy regarding safety of pupils I have brought the matter to the attention of Bus Éireann, which operates the school transport services on behalf of my Department.
523 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department has received an application form a school (details supplied) in County Carlow to address the current and future accommodation problems in the school; when she expects to make a statement on same; if her Department has learned lessons from the failure to forward plan, as illustrated in Laytown, County Meath; and if so, the action schools can take in areas where there is rapid growth pending. [38619/06]
I can confirm that the Department is in receipt of an application under the Permanent Accommodation Scheme 2007 from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers.
Applications for this Scheme are currently being assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria and a list of successful applicants will be announced when this process is complete.
In relation to forward planning in areas of rapid growth, the process of assessing the need for new or additional educational facilities at primary or post-primary level in any given area entails consideration of all relevant factors, including enrolment and demographic trends, housing developments and the capacity of existing schools to meet the demand for places. Liaison with existing schools is also an important part of the process, as the school authorities would usually alert the Department where, in their view, the need for additional accommodation is anticipated. In this way, every effort is made to ensure that there is adequate existing provision, or that timely arrangements are made to extend capacity or provide new infrastructure where necessary.
Over and above the statutory consultation provisions in relation to local authority draft area development plans, the Department has in recent years worked to strengthen contacts with local authorities to enable informed decisions to be made in planning future educational provision.
On top of this, the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects, which were revised following consultation with the Education Partners, targets school projects in rapidly developing areas by assigning them a band 1 rating which is the highest priority possible. Innovations in the delivery of school buildings such as Generic Repeat Designs and use of the Design and Build model ensure that new school buildings are delivered in the fastest timeframe possible. This is clear evidence of the Department's commitment to ensuring that the needs of rapidly developing areas are met as quickly as possible.
School Planning Section is also working proactively with some local authorities on the possibility of the development of school provision in tandem with the development of community facilities. A practical output from this approach is an innovative partnership with Fingal County Council.
Under the terms of the agreement and based on the Department's school planning projections, Fingal County Council will identify and acquire appropriate sites where schools with enhanced sporting, community and arts facilities will be built to the benefit of both the school and the wider community. In practice, the Local Authority will identify the sites when adopting their Local Area Plans. The Council will go on to acquire sufficient land as recommended by the Department on which an appropriate sized school or schools for that local area can then be built.
In return, the design of the schools on these sites will be varied to meet community needs identified by the Council. The range of enhanced combination facilities will include such as full-size sports halls, stage and dressing rooms, community meeting rooms, all-weather pitches and playgrounds. These additional facilities, which will be over and above the Department's standard specifications for schools, will be available not only to the school during normal school hours but also to the local community in the evenings, at weekends and during school holidays.
There are two early examples of the agreement already in place at St. Patrick's NS, Diswellstown and Mary Mother of Hope N.S. both of which are in Dublin 15. The benefits from this approach are obvious and the Department would like to see it replicated throughout the country.
In addition, under the provisions of the Strategic Development Zones (SDZ) it is generally the position that sites must be reserved for schools and that the schools must be developed commensurate with housing and other developments such as community facilities. In the Adamstown SDZ for example, with the cooperation of South Dublin County Council and the developers, 2 new primary schools will be in place in the next year in fulfilment of requirements under the planning Scheme. Again, the Department would like to see this phasing approach replicated throughout the country.
The Department has also recently adopted an area based approach to school planning where, through a public consultation process involving all interested parties, a blueprint for schools' development in an area for a 10 year timeframe is set out. The recently published plan for the N4/M4 corridor is an example of this approach.
Taken in combination I believe the measures outlined will improve the speed and effectiveness of the response to emerging needs in rapidly developing areas.
524 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding plans to build a new primary school (details supplied) in County Meath; if this school will be on a stand alone site; the reasons for any delay in the process to date; the timeline of the programme of works; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38626/06]
The school building project in the area referred to by the Deputy was one which I announced to commence architectural design in 2005. A full Design Team has been appointed and the project is at an early stage of Architectural Planning.
The design and planning of a building project is covered by stages 1 to 5, during which the project is developed from the assessment of site suitability, through the detailed design (including the obtaining of planning permission) to the point where detailed Bills of Quantities are prepared. The project will be allowed to progress up to and including Stage 5 Bill of Quantities. This is the final stage before the invitation of tenders.
The Planning Authority at Meath County Council has commenced preparation of the Local Area Plan for the area and this will determine the location of the proposed school building on the site. When this matter is completed my Department will progress this project further.
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.
525 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the Government’s public private partnership programme; and her views on the way it will affect schools. [38628/06]
I am pleased that my Department is participating in the Government's programme on Public Private Partnerships (PPP) as I believe PPPs have significant potential in relation to: Developing new ideas on design which arise from the output-based approach; Testing value for money over the life-cycle of the projects rather than just construction; Allowing educationalists to concentrate on their core functions; Optimising the allocation of risk in areas such as planning, design, construction, maintenance and operation of education facilities.
Overall, I am satisfied that these objectives were realised in my Department's Pilot PPP programme and in general the outcome has been positive. Many of the lessons learned in developing the original school bundle PPP project and other education PPPs have been incorporated into my Departments school building programme, including a greater emphasis on sustainability, whole life cycling and improved use of circulation and social space in schools.
My Department are involved in further PPP projects in consultation with the National Development Finance Agency who now have responsibility for the procurement process. Currently, applications by interested bidders in respect of a bundle of four schools are being evaluated and I announced the second bundle of PPP school projects today consisting of six schools on five sites.
526 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to an application by a school (details supplied) in County Donegal under the small schools scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38629/06]
The School Planning Section of my Department is in receipt of an application for the Small Schools Scheme 2007 from the school referred to by the Deputy. The closing date for this devolved scheme was 27 October 2006. The application will be assessed by my officials and publication of the list of successful applicants for the scheme will be published as soon as possible.
527 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science when she will approve revised school transport arrangements for a school (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38650/06]
The case referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied has been considered by the School Transport Appeals Board who found that the present level of service to the school in question is reasonable and that the benefits of an exclusive service would not justify the costs involved. In the circumstances, it is not open to me to re-examine the case.
528 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason resource hours have been withdrawn from a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38665/06]
As the Deputy is aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through the local special educational needs organisers (SENO), is responsible for processing applications from schools for special needs supports. These supports include resource teaching hours for pupils with low-incidence special needs, based on applications in respect of individual pupils.
My officials have been in contact with the NCSE regarding the pupil referred to by the Deputy. The NCSE has advised that the SENO has sanctioned 3.5 resource teaching hours for the pupil in question.
529 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department will permit the expansion of NUI Galway to establish an Ulster Connacht medical school; if it will allocate funding to the university for the establishment of such a school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38687/06]
On the 1 February 2006 the Minister for Health and Children and I published the report of the Fottrell Working Group on Undergraduate Medical Education and Training. Among the recommendations of the Fottrell Group was that a graduate stream of entry to medicine be introduced and that graduates of honours Bachelor degree programmes should be eligible to apply.
It is anticipated that the Higher Education Authority will shortly issue a competitive call for proposals to provide the new graduate entry programme, with a view to additional places being provided on this programme from 2007. It will be open to NUI Galway to submit a proposal in response to this competitive call.
530 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if the Government is considering the allocation of capital funding to upgrade and expand facilities on the campus of the National College of Art and Design; when she expects such funding to be allocated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38719/06]
Officials from my Department along with the officials from the Higher Education Authority (HEA) recently met with the authorities of the National College of Art and Design in relation to its campus development. The College was requested to consider and put forward options for the delivery and management of the proposed development and provide an implementation programme.
The HEA has not received the College's proposals to date. I await the views of the HEA before considering the matter further.
531 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department is giving consideration to the provision of a new post-primary school in North Offaly in view of the increasing pressure for places in that area and the demographics in primary schools; if she will ensure that the needs of the area are addressed in time in order that children transferring from primary schools will have places; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38720/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, the local area development plan for the N4/M4 corridor outlines the Department's long-term educational strategy at both primary and post-primary level for the area to which the Deputy refers. The recommendations in the plan will be advanced under the School Building and Modernisation Programme from 2007 onwards subject to the prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects.
532 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding available to stand alone autism units in secondary schools from her Department and agencies controlled by her Department; the details of the application process of these; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38730/06]
533 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the non financial assistance and supports available to stand alone autism units in secondary schools from her Department and agencies controlled by her Department; the contact details for such supports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38731/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 532 and 533 together.
My Department provides a range of supports to second level schools to enable them to cater for pupils with special educational needs including the needs of pupils with autism. The supports in question include remedial and resource teaching support, special needs assistant support, funding for the purchase of specialised equipment, transport, accommodation, teacher education and psychological services. Other agencies providing services in respect of pupils with special educational needs include the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), National Education Welfare Board and the State Exams Commission.
As the Deputy is aware, there has been enormous progress made over the past number of years in relation to increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special educational needs.
At second level, approximately 1,854 whole time equivalent additional teachers are in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to the approximately 200 teachers that were in place in 1998 for such pupils. In addition, there are 534 whole time equivalent learning support teachers and approximately 1,365 whole time equivalent special needs assistants (SNAs) in our second level schools.
With effect from 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has taken over key functions from my Department in relation to special educational provision. The NCSE was formally established as an independent statutory body on the 1st October 2005 under the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2005. The Council acts under the broad policy direction of my Department 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 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.
My Department supports the education of individual students with autism in various second level schools throughout the country. 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.
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.
In addition, my Department's Teacher Education Section has developed a strategy designed to meet the continuing professional development needs of personnel working with children with special educational needs. This involves a major expansion of the range of post-graduate professional training programmes available to teachers in the special needs area and the ongoing development of the Special Education Support Service (SESS) to support schools staff locally.
Given the increasing number of children with special needs now availing of the opportunity of a mainstream second level education, my Department has put in place a strategy which involves the provision of training and support at initial teacher education and also the provision of training and support for continuous professional development.
In terms of initial teacher education, the Education Degree and Higher Diploma in Education programmes include elements on the learning difficulties of pupils as part of a general alertness orientation programme.
Separate post-graduate programmes for Learning Support Teachers and Special Education Needs Teachers are provided by seven third-level institutions with the support of my Department. In addition, a new combined post-graduate programme of training for Learning Support and Special Education Needs is being offered to teachers from September 2006. My Department also funds a Masters Programme in Special Education Needs which is offered in St. Patrick's College.
The Deputy will also be aware that my Department's National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) provides direct contact and services to children and young adults who need the support of an Educational Psychologist. NEPS encourages a staged assessment process, whereby each school takes responsibility for initial assessment, educational planning and remedial intervention, in consultation with their assigned NEPS psychologist. Only if there is a failure to make reasonable progress in spite of the school's best efforts, will a child be referred for individual psychological assessment. This system allows the psychologists to give early attention to urgent cases and also to help many more children indirectly than could be seen individually.
I am confident that the advent of the NCSE and the measures outlined will prove of major benefit in ensuring that all children with special educational needs receive the support they require.
534 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the total amount of money spent on temporary school buildings in both primary and secondary schools in the State for each of the years 2001 to 2006 inclusive, with a breakdown on a constituency basis for each of these years, in tabular form. [38738/06]
544 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the money spent on providing and on leasing prefab classrooms in primary schools and in second level schools in each of the years 2000 to date in 2006. [39013/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 534 and 544 together.
The information requested by the Deputies in relation to the total amount of money spent on temporary school premises in respect of both purchase and rental for the period 2000 to end Oct 2006 is outlined in the table. However, the breakdown of expenditure on a constituency basis is not available.
As the Deputies will see from the following table the spend on temporary accommodation represents a very small fraction of the overall yearly spend on school buildings.
The demand for additional accommodation in schools has risen significantly over the last number of years mainly due to the rapid expansion in teacher numbers particularly in the area of special needs, the growth in the school-going population in rapidly developing areas and the demands to cater for diversity through the recognition of new Gaelscoileanna and Educate Together schools.
The provision of rented accommodation provides an immediate solution to a deficit of school accommodation, and is often the only available option where extra accommodation is needed at short notice. However, the current focus within my Department is to empower schools to resolve their accommodation needs, wherever possible by way of permanent accommodation. In order to reduce the amount of temporary accommodation at primary level a new devolved initiative was launched in 2003. The purpose of this initiative is to allow schools to undertake a permanent solution to their classroom accommodation needs and to achieve the best value for money. Since the introduction of the devolved initiative over 200 schools have been allocated funding under this scheme.
|
Year |
Total Capital Expenditure at Primary & Post Primary Level |
Expenditure on Temp Accommodation |
Temp Accom as a % of total Capital Expenditure |
Expenditure on Rental of temporary school premises (including prefab classrooms) |
Rental of temporary school premises (including prefab classrooms) as a % of total Capital Expenditure |
|
€m |
€m |
% |
€m |
% |
|
|
2000 |
257.50 |
4.40 |
1.71 |
4.00 |
1.55 |
|
2001 |
317.69 |
9.11 |
2.87 |
6.10 |
1.92 |
|
2002 |
344.13 |
21.46 |
6.24 |
8.40 |
2.44 |
|
2003 |
326.96 |
25.84 |
7.90 |
9.40 |
2.87 |
|
2004 |
333.12 |
12.71 |
3.82 |
11.30 |
3.39 |
|
2005 |
501.26 |
6.47 |
1.29 |
15.70 |
3.13 |
|
**2006 |
361.36 |
2.55 |
0.71 |
19.00 |
5.26 |
**2006 figures to end of October.
535 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of outstanding applications for home tuition with her Department; the average time taken to process each application; the reason for the delay in approving these applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38741/06]
536 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will approve an application for home tuition for persons (details supplied) in County Roscommon; the reason for the delay in approving the application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38742/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 535 and 536 together.
I can assure the Deputy that officials in my Department make every effort to ensure all applications for tuition under the terms of the scheme are processed as quickly as possible. There are 53 applications on hand in my Department — over 85 have been received since 6th November 2006. It is expected that all fully completed applications for home tuition would be processed within a two week period.
I am pleased to advise that home tuition has been granted to the two children referred to by the Deputy.
537 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is being denied free school transport in view of the fact that other children, living the same distance from the school, are receiving it and in view of the agreement that is in place. [38931/06]
My Department has requested Bus Éireann to provide a report on the situation regarding School Transport for the pupil referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied. When this information is received my Department will contact the family concerned.
538 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare did not qualify for a vocational educational committee grant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38932/06]
The Maintenance Grant Scheme for Students attending Post Leaving Certificate courses is administered by the Vocational Education Committees on behalf of my Department.
Under the terms of the Maintenance Grants Scheme for Post Leaving Certificate Courses 2006, grants are available to eligible candidates who are entering approved PLC courses for the first time in the 2006/2007 academic year.
Candidates are ineligible if they already hold a FETAC Level 5 qualification (formerly known as a FETAC (NCVA) Level 2 qualification) or FETAC Level 6 qualification (formerly known as a FETAC (NCVA) Level 3 qualification) or a third level qualification at Level 6 or higher. However, notwithstanding this condition candidates who already hold a qualification no higher than a FETAC Level 5 (formerly known as a FETAC (NCVA) Level 2 qualification) and are now pursuing a course that offers progression may be deemed eligible for grant aid.
My Department understands that the candidate, to whom the Deputy refers, already holds two qualifications from Fáilte Ireland, which are at least equivalent to a FETAC Level 5 and a FETAC Level 6 respectively. As outlined above, the candidate is ineligible for grant assistance in respect of his PLC course which is at FETAC Level 5.
I regret the news is not better in relation to this student, but you will appreciate that the terms of the schemes are of general application and it is not open to me or my Department to depart from the terms of the scheme and make exceptions in individual cases.
539 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the priority projects for capital investment identified in table 7.2 of the report of Review and Prioritisation of Capital Projects in the Higher Education Sector which have not been approved by her; the criteria used by her to decide which projects should not yet be approved; when she proposes to give approval for any proposals which have not received her approval; the progress to date of each project approved by her; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38974/06]
The Deputy will be aware that the Review and Prioritisation of Capital Projects in the Higher Education Sector (the Kelly Report) recommended a ten year expenditure programme. The Report recommended capital support for a total of 93 individual projects at a cost to the Exchequer of €933m in 2003 prices.
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that as a result of having achieved a multi-annual capital envelope of €900m for the sector to 2010, I have already approved a total of 48 individually recommended projects. The projects concerned are high priority projects in a range of disciplines including health therapies, teacher training, engineering, IT, multi media and catering and hospitality. A further 5 projects are expected to be progressed independently of direct Exchequer support. Accordingly, by 2010, it is expected that close to 60% of all recommended Kelly projects will be either delivered or close to delivery.
As I stated earlier, the Kelly Report is predicated around a ten year expenditure programme. Accordingly, remaining projects will be considered in the context of budgetary allocations. In general, progress on projects already approved is satisfactory with some on site, others in advanced architectural planning and some at preliminary planning.
540 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the criteria used for deciding on applications under the temporary accommodation scheme and the summer works scheme 2007; when she will be in a position to make a decision on an application by a school (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [38975/06]
I can confirm that the Department is in receipt of applications under the Summer Works Scheme 2007 and the Permanent Accommodation Scheme 2007 from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers. All applications under these Schemes are currently being assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria. I intend to publish a list of successful applicants as soon as the assessment procedures are completed. The prioritisation criteria for the Schemes are contained in the following documents.
CIRCULAR LETTER 0064/2006
To: Primary and Post Primary School Authorities
SUMMER WORKS SCHEME 2007
Scheme of Capital Grants for Small Scale Works
School Planning Section,
Department of Education and Science,
Portlaoise Road,
Tullamore,
Co. Offaly.
Summer Works Scheme Helpline: Freephone1800 200 955
schoolplanning@education.gov.ie
www.education.ie
The Minister for Education and Science is pleased to announce details of the Summer Works Scheme for 2007 and to invite applications under the Scheme in accordance with the terms of this Circular Letter. Please read it carefully before completing an application form. (Download application form)
1. Introduction
The purpose of the Summer Works Scheme is to devolve funding to individual school authorities to undertake small scale building works which, ideally, can be carried out during the summer months or at other times that avoid disrupting the operation of the school. Under the terms of the Scheme, school authorities are empowered to manage these works with guidance from and minimal interaction with the Department.
Funding will be allocated to projects in accordance with the prioritisation criteria attaching to the Scheme which, in the normal course, includes the ability to have the works carried out during the summer. However, in certain circumstances, the Department may allocate funding to further projects later in the year where these can be carried out without disruption to the operation of the school. If this arises, the terms and conditions of the Scheme will continue to apply when allocating funding to such projects.
2. Schools covered by the Scheme
The Scheme is open to primary and post primary schools with permanent recognition and in non-rented accommodation.
3. Works covered by the Scheme
Necessary small-scale works that, ideally, can be planned and delivered during the summer months.
4. Application process
Where a school applies for more than one project, it must:
Use one application form (Download application form)
Clearly identify the projects in order of priority
Provide individual costings and fees for each project.
In all cases, post primary schools are required to provide details of any Science and Technology upgrade or refurbishment projects separate from any other projects being applied for.
School Planning Section will not be able to adjudicate on the relative priority attaching to each individual project at a particular school.In the circumstances, the responsibility for identifying and applying for the most urgently required project rests with the school authority.
5. Ineligible projects
Projects that are desirable rather than absolutely necessary.
Projects that should ordinarily be carried out as routine maintenance.
Projects that could not reasonably be expected to be carried out using other funding channels, for example, the devolved grant scheme at primary level.
Any element of a new build other than that relating to access for all or necessary toilet facilities.
Temporary accommodation projects.
Radon or asbestos remediation projects. The Department has separate processes in place for dealing with these project types.
Projects already scheduled to be carried out as part of a larger project under the School Building Programme.
Any applications for these project types will be automatically rejected.
6. Technical issues
Part 2 of the application form addresses technical issues. Thismust be completed by a *suitably qualified Consultant with adequate Professional Indemnity Insurance and Employer’s Liability Insurance otherwise the application will be disqualified. It is important that the Consultant has the appropriate qualifications for the works being considered. The appointment of a Consultant is a matter for the school authority and any fees arising must be borne by it. Any reasonable fees incurred will be included in the overall allocation for successful applicants.
No commitment should be entered into with a Consultant beyond the work involved in completing part 2 of the application form.
The Consultant's reportmust comply in full with the Department’s relevant Technical Guidance Documents with respect to format and content (see Department’s website). It must also be accompanied by photographic evidence.
A Consultant's report is necessary:
For a professional diagnosis of the full nature and extent of the proposed project.
To verify the absolute necessity of the project.
To provide a range of cost effective solutions.
To enable the prioritisation of projects on the basis of professional objective information.
Please see Appendix A of this Circular Letter for guidance on the appointment of a Consultant.
*Examples of unacceptable qualifications for the purposes of a Consultant's report are:
Diploma in Construction Studies, Architectural Assistant, Agricultural Engineer, Building Surveyor, Building Contractor, B. Sc (Environment), Estimator, Electrician, Plumber, Window Contractor, OPW architect (unless it is verified with the application that the report is carried out on the direction of the OPW acting on the instruction of the Department of Education and Science).
This list is not exhaustive. If you haveany doubts in relation to the suitability of a proposed Consultant, please contact the Helpline. The Department’s decision will be final as to whether or not a Consultant is appropriately qualified.
7. Proposed Timetable for 2007 Scheme
|
Publication of Scheme details and application form |
1st June 2006 |
|
Closing date for receipt of applicationsCompleted application forms should be returned to School Planning Section, Department of Education and Science, Tullamore, Co. Offaly. Applications received after this date and/or applications that are incomplete will not be considered. |
29th September, 2006 |
|
Publication of list of successful applicants |
December, 2006 |
|
Confirmation of acceptance must be made to School Building Section by |
January, 2007 |
|
The Department’s Building Section will request confirmation that you are progressing the proposed works by |
April, 2007 |
|
You will be required to confirm to School Building Section that the works have commenced and request draw down of 70% of the grant aid by |
July, 2007 |
|
You will be required to have requested the draw down of the final 30% of the grant aid by |
November, 2007 |
8. Assessment, categorisation and prioritisation of projects
Details of how projects will be assessed, categorised and prioritised are set out in Appendix B.
Commensurate with the level of funding available,demonstrably necessary projects which command the highest priority rating will be approved to proceed. It is important to understand that the assignment of a project to a particular category does not imply that it will receive funding. Only those applications satisfying the fundamental criterion of absolute need will succeed in this regard.
In allocating funding, account will be taken of Government policy in relation to urban and rural disadvantage (RAPID and CLÁR programmes) and inclusion and access for special needs pupils.
9. Grant details
Grant details, including conditions for drawing down the grant, are set out in Appendix C.
10. Local contribution
The appropriate local contribution will be required, as normal, from non-State owned schools.
Confirmation of its availability is sought in the application form.
The local contribution for small scale works is 10% of the capital cost up to a maximum contribution of €31,500 or, in the case of special/disadvantaged schools at primary level, 5% of the capital cost up to a maximum contribution of €12,500.
11. Freephone Service
A freephone service has been put in place to assist you with any queries on the Scheme including completion of the application form. This service will be available between the hours of 10am to 1pm each day from 1st June, 2006 to 29th September, 2006. The Freephone no. is1800 200 955.
SWS calls to other lines will be automatically re-directed to this number to ensure that information given to schools is being provided by staff specifically trained in the detail of the Summer Works Scheme.
12. Freedom of Information Act
Persons signing application forms are reminded that the Department may be obliged to release any information supplied under the Freedom of Information Act, 1997 and 2003.
Tony Dalton,
Principal,
School Planning Section
May, 2006.
(Download application form)
Appendix A
Engaging Professional Advice for the Preparation of a Technical Report
Important: The cost of engaging professional advice to prepare a technical report must be met in full from a school’s own resources. Failure to procure a Consultant in the appropriate discipline or the procurement of a Consultant without adequate Professional Indemnity Insurance & Employer’s Liability Insurance may result in the disqualification of your application
Advice available on Freephone 1800 200 955
Before a Consultant is appointed:
Refer to the Department's Technical Guidance Document TGD 008 — Engaging Consultants for Devolved Grants Projects — Revised Edition — March 2006. This document is available on the Department's website www. education.ie.
Ensure that the Consultant is in theappropriate discipline for the works concerned. If a project relates substantially or entirely to construction works, such as refurbishment or repair works, the engagement of an Architect or a Civil/Structural Engineer is appropriate. If a project relates substantially or entirely to Building Services i.e. mechanical/electrical works, a Building Services Consulting Engineer should be engaged. The onus rests with the school authority to ensure that the appropriate level and range of service is procured.
The Consultant will have a relevant degree of qualification and in all cases will either be a member of a professional body (e.g. RIAI for Architects, IEI/ACEI for Engineers and SCS for Quantity Surveyors or Chartered Building Surveyors) or be eligible for such membership. Equivalent qualifications from another EU member state and membership of an equivalent EU professional body will also be deemed acceptable.
Be satisfied that the Consultant is competent and qualified to carry out the work. A minimum of three suitable Consultants should be identified for consideration and the one most suitable selected on objective criteria. These criteria should include quality of previous work, the ability to perform against deadlines, and the fee for assessing the work and recommending solutions (i.e. completing Part 2 of the application form).
Address the following matters with prospective Consultants:
Experience in the preparation of reports for projects of a similar nature highlighting the scope of works and the timescale.
How the Consultant ensures accurate cost information.
A brief summary of the scope of the agreed report and a timescale for its delivery.
Confirmation of appropriate professional qualifications.
Confirmation of adequate Professional Indemnity Insurance and Employer's Liability Insurance.
VAT inclusive all-in fee (including buying-in).
Discuss a realistic scope of works to enable assessment of the amount of work necessary to prepare the technical report. Additionally, accurate professional cost advice is an essential part of the report. Accordingly, the cost of the work must be clearly identified alongside the cost of any associated planning fees and an estimate of the professional fees for managing the execution of the works should the project be approved.
Agree the level of fee payable for completion of the report only (i.e. completing Part 2 of the application form).
Be satisfied that the agreed fee is a fair reflection of the time and resources required to carry out the task.
Do not:
Enter into any commitments regarding an overall fee for the remedial works and make it clear to the Consultant that the appointment to carry out the Reportdoes not entitle the Consultant to be appointed to carry out the works if the application is successful.
Appendix B
1. How projects will be prioritised and categorised
Priority/Category 1: Gas Works
Priority/Category 2: Electrical Works
Priority/Category 3: Mechanical works (including Dust Extraction)
Priority/Category 4: Projects to facilitate inclusion and access for special needs pupils
Priority/Category 5: Toilet facilities
Priority/Category 6: Roof works
Priority/Category 7: Window projects
Priority/Category 8: Curricular requirement projects
Priority/Category 9: Other structural improvements
Priority/Category 10: External environment projects
2. Supporting evidence required for Category 4 projects in addition to the information required in the application form (SWS1)
Confirmation of the nature and extent of the special need.
Suggestions as to how existing accommodation could be modified to accommodate the pupil or staff member.
In the case of a pupil or staff member not yet attending the school, evidence of intent to commence at the school in the school year 2007/8.
3. Summary of criteria which will be applied in assessing applications
The application has been properly completed, signed and returned within the prescribed time i.e. 29th September, 2006.
Part 2 of the form has been properly completed by a suitably qualified Consultant and a range of remediation options has been provided and costed.
The project is absolutely necessary and can, ideally, be planned and delivered during the summer months.
The project does not arise due to deficiencies in a school's maintenance programme and/ or cannot be addressed by the application of a proper maintenance programme.
The project cannot be carried out as routine maintenance and cannot be addressed under the devolved grant scheme for minor works or through other funding channels.
There is no element of a new build in the proposed project other than that relating to access for all or necessary toilet facilities.
The application does not refer to or have any element of temporary accommodation / radon or asbestos remediation.
There are no plans to carry out the project as part of a larger project under the Capital Programme.
Priorities have been clearly identified.
Confirmation has been given that the local contribution, where applicable, will be available.
Please note that a school may apply under the Scheme in successive years for additional projects.
Appendix C
Grant details
1. Amount which will be approved
The grant payable by the Department (inclusive of VAT and fees) will bewhichever is the lesser of the following:
The amount of grant-aid approved by the Department in its letter of approval
or
The lowest valid tender amount for the proposed project plus fees (and less the local contribution where applicable).
2. Local contribution
Grant aid will be net of the local contribution where such a contribution applies.
3. Funding shortfall
If there is a shortfall in funding, the options open to school managerial authorities are to:
Reduce the scope of the works to stay within the limit of the grant.
In the case of primary schools, use funds allocated by the Department under the terms of the Grant Scheme for Minor Works to supplement the SWS grant provided such funds are not required for more urgent and immediate works.
Fund the balance of the works from own resources.
4. What the grant covers
The grant is intended to cover the capital cost of the project including associated planning charges, all consultants' fees incurred in the design and construction of the project, all fees for the Project Supervisor Design Stage (PSDS) and all fees for the Project Supervisor Construction Stage (PSCS).
5. Payment of grant
The first payment will be for70% of the grant amount and this will be paid on receipt, through the school authority, of the following confirmation from the Consultant:
That the works undertaken are in accordance with the scope of works for which the grant was approved.
That the tender process was carried out in accordance with the terms outlined in the letter of grant sanction.
That the management authority has placed a contract for the proposed works with the successful contractor and the contractor is on site and has commenced the works.
The Department, in compliance with public procurement, places a requirement on school authorities to use the standard (GDLA) form of contract for all school building projects. The "employer" of contractors on school building projects is in virtually all cases the school authority except for state owned schools where it is the Minister for Education and Science.
Under Clause 39 of this contract, contractors are obliged to pay rates of wages and observe hours of labour and conditions of employment that are not less favourable than those laid down by the National Joint Industrial Council for the Construction Industry. The contractor is also responsible for the due observance by all sub-contractors of the provisions of this clause.
It will, therefore, be necessary for the Consultant to inform the Department, through a school's management authority, of the tender amount for the proposed works, plus fees, before any payments can be made.
The second and final payment will be for the remaining30% of the grant amount. This will be paid on receipt from the school authority of:
A copy of the certificate of practical completion from the Consultant.
Written confirmation that a minimum of half of the agreed percentage retention rate of the overall contract sum will be retained for a period of 12 months following completion of the works and that this sum shall not be expended for any other purpose. The reason for this retention is to ensure that any building defects which may become apparent during that period will be rectified by the contractor.
The Consultant's Opinion of Compliance of the relevant development with planning permission and or exemption from planning control.
The Consultant's Opinion of Compliance of the relevant development with the building regulations including the fire safety certificate.
Confirmation from the Consultant(s) that a safety file has been prepared and issued to the school managerial authority.
Confirmation that the school authority has received from its Consultant copies of all relevant drawings and documents, if possible in an appropriate electronic format, together with the Consultant's confirmation that the completed works are in accordance with these drawings and documents.
Circular Letter 0098/2006
To: Primary and Post Primary School Authorities
School Building Programme : 2007
Permanent Accommodation Scheme 2007
Classroom Accommodation
Please return completed forms no later than 27th October, 2006 to:
School Planning Section,
Department of Education and Science,
Portlaoise Road,
Tullamore,
Co. Offaly.
Helpline: Freephone 1800 200 955
schoolplanning@education.gov.ie
www.education.ie
1. Introduction
The purpose of the Permanent Accommodation Scheme 2007 (PAS) is to provide a classroom accommodation solution to schools for the 2007/08 school year, where anabsolute need is demonstrated.
This scheme is focused on schools which are not in need of an immediate major extension or building project but which require additional classroom accommodation.
If ancillary accommodation and/ or a major extension is required in addition to classroom accommodation, school authorities should consider, if not already done, submitting a completed FLE or SLE application form (available on the website www.education.ie download here FLE SLE) to be considered for delivery by the traditional method, in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Applicants should note that this scheme does not cover accommodation required for decanting purposes during a building project. Further details in relation to Accommodation Solution falling within the scope of this grant scheme are set out in Sections 6-8.
2. Schools covered by the Scheme
The Scheme is open to primary and post primary schools.
3. Scope of Scheme
Primary Schools
Primary School authorities are aware from October each year of the expected mainstream staffing allocation for the forthcoming year, if there is no change in the staffing schedule.
School authorities should, therefore, assess their accommodation needs on that basis and only make application for additional accommodation under this scheme, if it is clear that there will be an immediate urgent deficit of classroom accommodation.
Approval for additional accommodation under this schemewill not be given where there is no overall increased enrolment in the catchment area.
It is acknowledged that in rapidly developing areas and/or in recently recognised schools it can be difficult to plan accurately for the required additional accommodation. However, such schools should make an application for additional accommodation through this scheme based on their best estimate of emerging requirements.
Post Primary Schools
Post primary Schools are better placed to deal with an increase in pupil numbers, as the pattern should be obvious from enrolment figures in feeder national schools and the configuration of schools.
Accordingly, post primary applicants are advised that only in exceptional circumstances will applications under this scheme be considered.
4. How to apply for accommodation under this scheme
Permanent Accommodation Scheme (PAS) applications forms are now available on the Department's website www.education.ie and may be downloaded here. Copies of same are also attached for ease of reference.
Completed forms can be submitted by post or by e-mail and must be fully signed off by the relevant representatives of the school authority.
Successful applications will be selected, inter alia, on the basis that
the school submits a fully completed application form to the Planning and Building Unit (application forms are attached and/or can be downloaded from www.education.ie).
the Department is satisfied that no alternative suitable accommodation is available within the school or the catchment area.
the long-term projected enrolments (post-primary) / long term projected staffing (primary), as assessed by the Department, indicate that participation in this scheme at this time will address the classroom accommodation issues of the school and there is not a requirement for further additional accommodation in the foreseeable future.
architectural planning has not already been approved by the Department for a large-scale building project at the school.
5. Timetable for 2007 Scheme
|
Publication of Scheme details and application form |
August 2006 |
|
Closing date for receipt of applications |
27th October, 2006 |
|
Publication of list of successful applicants |
End of 2006 |
|
Information Sessions for successful applicants * |
1st Quarter 2007 |
*The Department will be holding an information session for successful applicants at which the terms of the scheme will be outlined in more detail. Schools will be requested to confirm their acceptance to these terms and conditions.
6. Criteria Specific to Primary Schools
Applications will be subdivided into the following categories:
Category 1 — Mainstream classroom accommodation / DEIS—School Support Programme
Category 2 — Special Education Tuition (SET) support / Language Support Teacher etc
Category 1 (Mainstream / DEIS—School Support Programme) will be assessed using the following criteria:
Schools in developing areas where there is no alternative accommodation
Recently recognised schools, allowing for incremental growth
Schools with additional teacher appointments where no other accommodation is available in the school or the area
Category 2 (Special Education Tuition ( SET) support / Language Support Teacher etc. will be assessed using the following criteria
Confirmed specific need which did not exist in previous school years
All other available accommodation at the school is in use
7. Criteria Specific to Post Primary Schools
Applications will be subdivided into the following categories:
Category 1 — Mainstream classroom accommodation
Category 2 — Special Education Tuition (SET) etc.
Category 1 (Mainstream) will be assessed using the following criteria:
Schools having an urgent deficit of mainstream accommodation as a result of increasing enrolments in the catchment area
Recently recognised schools, allowing for incremental growth
Category 2 (Special Education Tuition) etc will be assessed using the following criteria
Confirmed specific need which did not exist in previous school years
All other available accommodation at the school is in use
8. Accommodation Solutions
Consideration will be given to the school's preferred solution.However, the final decision on the appropriate solution will be made by the Department.
It is the policy of the Department to provide a permanent accommodation solution insofar as possible. Commensurate with the level of funding available, applications which have been assessed as appropriate to the scheme, where the school's accommodation requirement is recognised as permanent, will be given approval for funding to enable the school to provide the accommodation required under this grant scheme.
Successful applications for which a permanent solution is not the appropriate response e.g. where a major building project is in the pipeline, will have their immediate accommodation requirement dealt with by way of either relocation of existing prefabricated accommodation or by way of rental of prefabricated accommodation / premises.
Further details in relation to rental accommodation will be published shortly.
9. Level of Grant Assistance
Primary
Mainstream Classroom: €120,000
SET/other: €60,000
Post Primary
Mainstream Classroom: €85,000
SET/other: €42,500
10. Frequently Asked Questions
Attached for information of applicants, are a set of Questions and Answers to the most frequent queries received in relation to this scheme.
Any further queries in relation to the scheme should be made directly to the Helpline or put in writing to the Planning and Building Unit.
11. Freedom of Information Act
Applicants are reminded that the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, 1997 and 2003 apply. As such it should be noted that the Department may be obliged to release information submitted to the Department under the Freedom of Information Act, 1997 and 2003.
Jason Kearney
Principal
School Planning Section
August, 2006
APPENDIX 1 — LEVEL OF GRANT-AID
&
DRAW-DOWN CONDITIONS
1. What is the amount of the grant?
The up to date amount of grant payable
Primary
Mainstream Classroom : €120,000
SET/other: €60,000
Post Primary
Mainstream Classroom: €85,000
SET/other: €42,500
2. Is the school guaranteed this amount?
Yes provided the terms of the scheme are complied with. Once selected the grant payable by the Department (inclusive of Value Added Tax and all fees) will be the lower of:
the amount of grant-aid approved by the Department in its letter of approval,
or
the lowest valid tender amount for the proposed works plus reasonable fees.
3. If this amount is not enough, what can the school do?
The choices to be made within this devolved scheme rest with the school and that is the cornerstone of any policy of devolution. The school authority knows the budget and must decide what it is capable of building with that budget.The time to identify a funding problem is at the outset before entering any contract. Schools should raise with the Department any site specific problems or unusual planning stipulations that impose additional costs and these will be examined provided the Department is notified of them in advance of contracts being signed.
Setting the scope of works is the critical first step. Clearly where a school has a known level of resources apart from the Department funding or knows its capacity to raise additional resources it is open to that school to extend the scope of works to include additional facilities. However if the scope of works is not set appropriately from the outset based on the budget available there is a risk that the school will be faced with a funding gap when the project is at construction.
If there is a shortfall in funding, the options open to the school authority are to:
a.Reduce the scale of the works to stay within the limit of the grant
b.Use funds allocated by the Department under the terms of the Grant Scheme for Minor Works to supplement the grant, provided such funds are not required for more urgent and immediate works
c.Apply separately under the Department's Summer Works Scheme (that is currently advertised on its website) for additional funding to deal with exceptional additional refurbishment costs in their existing school buildings.
d.Fund the balance of the works from its own resources.
4. Will the school authority be required to make a local contribution towards the project?
The Scheme is not structured on the basis that the Department funding must be supplemented by local fundraising. It does however allow a school to supplement the funding from local resources if it so decides.The critical element is that with devolved authority the school must set the scope of works to match the funding allocated. The Department does not define the precise works to be carried out other than it must be in accordance with the terms of the scheme. A school can make choices within the budget allocated.
5. Who pays for consultants’ fees and planning charges?
The grant is intended to cover the capital cost of the project including associated planning charges and all consultants' fees incurred in the design and construction of the project, all fees for the Project Supervisor Design Stage (PSDS) and all fees for the Project Supervisor Construction Stage (PSCS).
6. Can the Department withdraw an offer of grant-aid?
Yes, the grant sanction will automatically lapse if construction work does not commence within 12 months of the date of approval. The Department retains the option of altering/withdrawing the offer of grant aid if it is considered by the Department that a change in the local circumstances is sufficient to warrant this.
7. At what point will the grant be paid?
The school authority must notify the Department of the tender amount for the proposed works plus fees before any payments can be made.
First payment
The first payment will be for70% of the Department’s liability and this will be paid on receipt, through the school authority, of the following confirmation from your architect/engineer/chartered building surveyor that:
the works are in accordance with terms of the scheme
tenders were sought in accordance with a competitive tendering process as set out in Appendix 3
a Safety Plan was completed and presented to the successful contractor
the lowest valid tender was accepted by the Board and the successful contractor fulfilled the criteria set out at Appendix 3
the Board fulfilled its obligation under the Health and Safety regulations, in particular, the appointment of a competent person to fulfil the role of Project Supervisor Construction Stage ( PSCS)
the successful contractor has produced a safety statement
the Board has placed a contract for the proposed works with the successful contractor and the contractor is on site and has commenced building works.
Second and final payment
The second and final payment will be for the remaining30% of the Department’s liability and this will be paid on receipt of the following documentation:
copy of the certificate of practical completion from your architect/engineer / chartered buildings surveyor.
your consultant's Opinion of Compliance of the relevant development with planning permission and or exemption from planning control
your consultant's Opinion of Compliance of the relevant development with the building regulations including the fire safety certificate
confirmation from your consultant(s) that a safety file has been prepared by the PS(C)S and issued to the Board of Management.
copies of all relevant drawings, if possible in an appropriate electronic format, and your consultant's confirmation that the completed works are in accordance with these drawings.
Confirmation from the Board of Management that 50% of the agreed retention % rate of the contract sum will be retained for a period of 12 months following the completion of the works and pending the rectification of any building defects which may become apparent during that period.
During the Defects Liability period your architect/engineer/chartered building surveyor must prepare the final account for the project to determine the exact final payment due to the contractor. The school authority is advised to retain the final portion of the architect/engineer / chartered building surveyor's fee until the final account has been completed. The school authority must satisfy itself as to the correctness of the final account before making final payments to the contractor
APPENDIX 2 — TECHNICAL ISSUES
1. Is written Guidance on Technical Issues available?
Yes. Schools should consult Technical Guidance DocumentTGD007 “Design Team Procedures: Protocol for Devolved Grants”, and also TGD008 “Engaging Professional Consultants” available on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance
2. Is a consultant architect / engineer / chartered building surveyor required?
Yes. The school authoritymust employ a suitably qualified consultant architect , engineer or chartered building surveyor [member of Royal Institute of Architects (RIAI), Institute of engineers of Ireland (IEI), Society of Chartered Surveyors or equivalent] Refer to TGD008 “Engaging Professional Consultants” for guidance available on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance
The school authority must also satisfy itself that the consultant architect/engineer/chartered building surveyor will be able to provide satisfactory evidence of tax clearance and adequate professional indemnity insurance cover in advance of engagement.
The school authority should ensure that the fee is agreed with the architect/engineer /chartered building surveyor before the Consultant is appointed and that it covers ALL necessary professional and technical services (including buying-in other services as required) and all expenses.
3. Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with statutory regulations?
The school authority is the client for the project and, in consultation with the architect/engineer / chartered building surveyor, is responsible for ensuring compliance with all statutory regulations which, with most projects, will require obtaining planning permission and a fire safety certificate. The building project must comply in all respect with building regulations. The consultant architect/engineer/chartered building surveyor will be able to advise the Board on these matters.
Refer to Technical Guidance Document TGD-007“Design Team Procedures: Protocol for Devolved Grants” on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance
4. Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with Health and Safety Regulations?
The school authority, as client, is responsible for the implementation of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2001 and subsequent H&S legislation scheduled for implementation in 2006. Under these regulations the appointment of a competent person to act as Project Supervisor (Design) stage PS(D)S is a legal obligation. Guidance on how to do this can be found inTGD008 “Engaging Professional Consultants” on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance
At construction stage the school authority as client, is also responsible for the appointment of a competent person to act as Project Supervisor Construction Stage. The PS(D)S will advise on this and his/her fee should include for the assessment of contractors' competence to carry out this role.
Refer to Technical Guidance Document TGD-007Design Team Procedures Protocol for Devolved Grants on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance for H&S information documentation required at Tender and Completion stages, including the safety file which should be retained by the school authority.
5. What should be done if the school is known to contain asbestos?
If your school has not already been surveyed for the presence of asbestos or you are unsure whether or not it has been surveyed, you or the architect/engineer/chartered building surveyor should contact the Health and Safety Unit, Office of Public Works, 51 St. Stephen's Green, Dublin 2 — Tel. 01/6476198. In this context, please refer to circular letter 37/99 issued by the Building Unit in December, 1999.
6. How are tenders to be sought for this proposed building project?
Tenders must be sought on a fixed price basis (i.e. Clause 36 of the GDLA form of contract should be deleted). Refer to Technical Guidance Document TGD-007Design Team Procedures Protocol for Devolved Grants on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance
7. What criteria must the successful contractor fulfil?
Refer to Technical Guidance Document TGD-007“Design Team Procedures: Protocol for Devolved Grants”, and also TGD014 “Guidance on Pre-Selection of Contractors” on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance
8. Logo on site
Projects must display an acknowledgement sign that they are being funded by the National Development Plan (NDP) 2002 — 2006. Guidance on this matter is available on www.ndp.ie.
9. Reminder of penalty for non compliance with terms of scheme
The Department reserves the right to withhold payment of the grant to schools for non-compliance with any terms of the scheme.
10. What other guidance is available to the Board?
Guidance on technical issues is available on Departments Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance
APPENDIX 3 — LEGAL ISSUES
1. Is a Lease/Declaration of Trust required?
It is a condition of funding that the school site including school building(s) are the subject of a Lease/Declaration of Trust that is valid for a minimum period of 35 years from a current date. The lease simply guarantees that the school property is retained for educational use. The lease must be amended to reflect the level of capital investment. The school authority is advised to seek the advice of legal representative in this and all legal matters.
A grant awarded under the provisions of this scheme does not/should not of itself confer a particular tenure on a building as the terms of the Rules for National Schools and the Education Act apply. The school authority must have the approval of the patron/trustee before application is made for capital works and have this reaffirmed prior to a contract being placed.
2. Who is responsible for the proposed building project?
This scheme devolves authority and responsibility to the school authority for the execution of the works. The school authority is responsible for all interactions with the consultant architect/engineer/chartered building surveyor and for ensuring that the proposed works are in accordance with the conditions set out in this scheme.
3. What records must be kept?
All expenditure in connection with the scheme must be vouched and all documentation must be retained by the school authority for a minimum period of seven years in the event of an audit inspection by the Department and/or Comptroller and Auditor General.
Please note that the Department will be undertaking random audits and inspections of schools participating in this scheme.
4. Why are random audits done?
In accordance with standard practice, payment of capital grants is conditional on the Department being satisfied that the school has followed proper procedures and retained appropriate records. In addition it is essential that a proper maintenance programme is in place to protect the school. Guidelines as to how to address this matter were outlined in the "Maintenance Matters" manual issued to all schools in 1998. An electronic version of "Maintenance Matters" can be downloadedhere
APPENDIX 4 — GUIDE TO THE BUILDING PROCESS
Introduction
This guide is issued by the Department of Education and Science for general guidance purposes only. For more detailed information refer to Technical Guidance Document TGD-007Design Team Procedures: Protocol for Devolved Grants on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance
Building Projects
There are a number of stages to a Building Project, which are summarised below. The consultant employed by the school authority must be competent in all of these areas and the purpose of this document is to describe those processes in brief to persons not normally involved in the building procurement process.
Setting of Brief
This is the establishment of clear accommodation requirements; refurbishment requirements etc. coupled with the setting of cost parameters and any other relevant job specific objectives. The role of the Client (which is the school authority) assisted by the architect/engineer / chartered building surveyor, is to set the brief within the constraints of the amount of the grant and the priority areas outlined Paragraph 3 of the Scheme.
Design
The preparation by the architect/engineer/chartered building surveyor of initial sketch drawings which properly describe the proposed works for approval by the school authority and which are also consistent with the established brief and cost parameters.
Planning Permission
The statutory process as required under thePlanning and Development Act 2000. This involves the preparation and submission of a planning application to the relevant local authority to obtain planning permission and other necessary statutory consents to carry out development work.
Fire Safety Certificate
The statutory process as required under theBuilding Control Regulations 1991 — 1994 which involves the preparation and submission of a fire safety certificate application to the relevant Building Control for certification to carry out certain development work.
Tendering Process
The process of obtaining competitive tenders (prices) from a selected number of building contractors (a minimum of five). (Refer to Technical Guidance Document TGD-007 Design Team Procedures: Protocol for Devolved Grants on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance)
Tender analysis and Start-up
The Building Contractor is selected following analysis of the tenders and submission of all necessary documentation). (Refer to TGD-007 Design Team Procedures: Protocol for Devolved Grants on the Department Web-Site under School Building/Technical Guidance)
Contract Stage
This is the period during which the work actually takes place on site.
Post Contract Stage/Defects Liability Period
A period of time (normally twelve months) following the completion of the works during which a percentage of the monies due to the building contractor is withheld pending the rectification of any building defects which become apparent during that period
Explanation of job functions and other common terms
Architect — The person responsible for the design of the building
Quantity Surveyor — The person responsible for the cost control of the project and the Bill of Quantities
Structural Engineer — The person responsible for the structural design of the building
Mechanical and Electrical Engineer — The person responsible for the design of the electrical and mechanical aspects of the project (lighting, heating, air extraction etc.)
PSDS — Project Supervisor Design Stage — The person who assesses Health & Safety during the course of the project design, and whose task is to ensure safety both during the construction stage and in use thereafter. (this does not relieve the other Designers of similar responsibilities.)
PSCS — Project Supervisor Construction Stage — the PSCS is usually the main building contractor whose job it is to ensure that the works undertaken on site are done so in a safe manner without risk to the workers involved.
Bill of Quantities — A complete elemental breakdown of the scope of the works including quantification for pricing purposes
GDLA Form of Contract — Government Department and Local Authorities contract document. This is the standard form of contract for construction work being paid for from public funds.
Timescale of work
The following table illustrates the approximate time frame on a month by month basis for all of the processes described in the previous pages. The contract stage will vary from project to project with the following table illustrating a typical three month building programme:
|
Process |
Average time of Process in Months |
||||||||||||
|
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
7 |
8 |
9 |
10 |
11 |
12 |
13 |
|
|
Setting of Brief |
|||||||||||||
|
Design |
• |
• |
|||||||||||
|
Planning Preparation |
• |
||||||||||||
|
Planning Process |
• |
• |
• |
||||||||||
|
Fire Safety Certification |
• |
• |
|||||||||||
|
Tender Preparation |
• |
• |
|||||||||||
|
Tender Process |
• |
||||||||||||
|
Tender analysis + Start-up |
• |
||||||||||||
|
Contract Stage |
• |
• |
• |
||||||||||
|
Post Contract Stage |
• |
541 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application by a school (details supplied) in County Galway for funding for replacement windows and internal piping as part of the 2007 summer works scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38976/06]
School Planning Section of my Department is in receipt of an application for the Summer Works Scheme 2007 from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers. Applications for the Summer Works Scheme are currently being assessed and the list of successful applicants will be published as soon as possible.
542 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the new school at Summercove, Kinsale; and when it is expected to proceed. [38977/06]
The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works (OPW) which acts on behalf of my department in relation to site acquisitions generally has been requested to source a suitable site for the new school in Summercove, Kinsale. My Department has been advised that a suitable site has been identified and that a formal offer has issued to the owner for its acquisition. A response is awaited.
543 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of an ABA school for Dundalk, County Louth (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38994/06]
My Department is of the view that children with autism, in common with all children should have access to appropriate provision delivered by suitably qualified teachers within the school system where children can mix with their wider peer group and have maximum opportunities for integration. The preferred approach to the provision of appropriate education for children with autism, is through the primary and post primary school network, whether through placement in mainstream classes, in special classes or in special schools, a view that is supported by the findings of the Task Force Report on Autism.
My Department's ongoing commitment is to ensuring that all children, including those with Autistic Spectrum Disorders, receive an education appropriate to their needs. An application was recently received from the group in question to participate in the pilot scheme which has facilitated the establishment of a number of ABA-specific autism units nationwide. My officials requested that the psychological assessments of the children proposing to attend the proposed centre should be forwarded to the Department for consideration. My Department is awaiting the necessary reports.
545 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the typical cost of leasing a prefab classroom for a primary school for one year. [39014/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available as the parties to the contracts in such cases are the school authority and the rental company. My Department provides grant aid to individual school authorities towards these costs.
546 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved a special needs assistant as recommended by the National Education Psychological Service educational psychologist. [39016/06]
As the Deputy is aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has been operational since 1st January 2005, and is responsible for processing applications for special educational needs supports through its network of Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs).
My officials have been in contact with the NCSE regarding the special needs assistance (SNA) support for the pupil referred to by the Deputy. I can confirm that 3 hours resource teaching support per week has already been sanctioned for the pupil in question, however, I am informed that this support has not yet been put into place by the school authorities.
A decision regarding SNA support for the pupil cannot be finalised until the resource teaching supports are put in place. The SENO has been in contact with the school authorities on 15th November 2006 concerning the matter and will continue to liaise with the school until a decision has been achieved.
547 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be awarded their third level grant in view of the fact that they have been approved the grant for the past two weeks and that this is causing severe financial hardship to their family; and when they will receive their payment. [39021/06]
I understand the student referred to by the Deputy has been approved for a maintenance grant under the Third Level Maintenance Grants Scheme for Trainees. Under this scheme the grant shall be paid by the Institute in monthly instalments in arrears. The student will have received a letter from the assessing authority confirming grant eligibility which needs to be submitted to the Institute to initiate the payment process.
548 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for a new building for a school (details supplied) in County Waterford; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that her Department assured the board of management that the necessary approval to appoint a design team would be given over a month ago; the reason for the delay in giving that approval; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39049/06]
I can confirm that the Department is in receipt of an application for major capital funding from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers. The application has been assessed in accordance with published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and has been assigned a Band 2 rating.
The long term projected staffing for the school is currently being assessed to properly plan for the schools long term accommodation needs. The school authority is well aware of this position. Once this matter has been finalised, the project can be considered for progress under the School Building and Modernisation Programme from 2007 onwards.
549 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the position with regard to the impending closure of a school (details supplied) in County Galway; the prospects of the future retention of teaching at this secondary school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39050/06]
On 12 October, 2006, the Trustees of this school announced that they would be phasing the closure of this school from September 2007. The school in question is a voluntary secondary school and the decision to withdraw as providers of Education is within the remit of the Patron body, that is the Sisters of Mercy. My Department is examining the implications of the phased closure with a view to ensuring that the educational needs of the children in the area continue to be met.
550 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for Education and Science when there will be progress on a new building for a school (details supplied) in County Kerry; if she will give it priority treatment as part of the school building and modernisation programme; the amount of money which has been spent on north Kerry school building works, primary and secondary in the past 12 months. [39051/06]
The accommodation needs of the school referred to by the Deputy are under consideration by my Department. A technical assessment of the existing accommodation is now being carried out by my officials with a view to finalising the schedules of accommodation that needs to be provided to meet the school's long term needs.
Data in relation to capital expenditure on North Kerry as sought by the Deputy are not readily available. Capital expenditure on building related projects for the county for primary and post primary schools, in 2006 to date, is in the region of €4.3m and €4.8m respectively.
551 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for Education and Science when it is expected that a new school will be built in Blennerville, County Kerry. [39052/06]
The need for a new school building on a new site for Blennerville National School is acknowledged by my Department. A suitable site has recently been acquired. The building project required to deliver the new school will be progressed in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.
552 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on giving each school a tricolour and flag pole to mark the 91st anniversary of the 1916 Rising in Easter 2007; and her views on making the National Anthem a compulsory part of the primary school curriculum in order that every child will know the Irish version. [39053/06]
Earlier this year, the Government arranged a number of events to commemorate the 90th anniversary of the 1916 Rising. On the education side, one of the initiatives included a special supplement for schools in The Irish Times, including a map of the 1916 locations around Dublin sponsored by my Department. My Department also operates an annual Easter Week 1916 commemoration scholarship scheme. The Easter Week Scholarships reward students for their exceptional performance in the Leaving Certificate Examination and provide support to these students to continue their studies in higher education and in so doing to develop their potential and embrace their talent. These are highly prestigious and coveted awards, each of which is given in the name of one of the signatories of the 1916 Proclamation of Independence.
There are no plans to provide a tricolour or flag pole to all schools. With regard to the National Anthem, the primary school curriculum in Social, Personal and Health Education (SPHE) contains a strand unit "Developing Citizenship". One of the objectives in the strand unit is that children should be enabled to become aware of elements of their own cultural heritage and traditions through music, literature, language, folklore, landscape, respecting the national flag and anthem, taking part in festivals and celebrations that are unique to Ireland.
The Deputy may also be interested to know that I have asked the National Children's Choir to produce a CD for schools of the national anthem and other songs as Gaeilge.
553 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the post-primary schools that have resource teachers; the number of resource teachers each school has; the schools which have no resource teachers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39085/06]
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.
As the Deputy is aware, there has been enormous progress made over the past number of years in relation to increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special educational needs.
At second level, approximately 1,854 whole time equivalent additional teachers are in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to the approximately 200 teachers that were in place in 1998 for such pupils. In addition, there are 534 whole time equivalent learning support teachers and approximately 1,365 whole time equivalent special needs assistants (SNAs) in our second level schools.
The Education Act, 1998 requires all schools to have in place an admissions policy, detailing admission to and participation by students with disabilities or who have other special educational needs. The Act also requires schools to ensure that as regards that policy the principles of equality and the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents choice are respected.
Currently, under section 29 of the Education Act 1998, parents of a student who has been refused enrolment in a school may appeal that decision to the Secretary General of my Department. Such appeals are dealt with within 30 days of their receipt and where an appeal is upheld the Secretary General is empowered to direct the school to enrol the student.
The Deputy will also be aware that with effect from 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has taken over key functions from my Department in relation to special educational provision. The NCSE was formally established as an independent statutory body on the 1st 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 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 latest information available within my Department, on a school by school basis, is in respect of the allocation for special educational needs to second level schools in the Dublin region for the 2005/06 school year. A copy of this information follows. 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.
|
School Number |
Name |
Address |
Fee Charging |
Wholetime teacher equivalent granted |
|
60030V |
Blackrock College |
Blackrock, Co. Dublin |
yes |
1.68 |
|
60040B |
Willow Park School |
Rock Road, Blackrock, Co. Dublin |
yes |
0.8 |
|
60090Q |
Rathdown School |
Glenageary, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin |
yes |
1.06 |
|
60120W |
Mount Sackville Secondary School |
Chapelizod, Dublin 20 |
yes |
1.39 |
|
60130C |
Loreto Abbey Secondary School |
Dalkey, Co. Dublin |
yes |
0.27 |
|
60140F |
Mount Anville Secondary School |
Mount Anville Road, Dublin 14 |
yes |
0.68 |
|
60160L |
Notre Dame Des Missions |
Upper Churchtown Road, Dublin 14 |
yes |
0 |
|
60180R |
Christian Brothers College |
Monkstown Park, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin |
yes |
1.25 |
|
60240J |
Loreto College |
Foxrock, Dublin 18 |
yes |
1.75 |
|
60260P |
St. Joseph of Cluny |
Bellevue Park, Ballinclea Road, Killiney |
yes |
1.23 |
|
60272W |
The Kings Hospital |
Palmerstown, Dublin 20 |
yes |
1.64 |
|
60340N |
Loreto High School |
Beaufort, Grange Road, Rathfarnham |
yes |
1.16 |
|
60381E |
Sutton Park School |
St Fintans Road, Sutton, Dublin 13 |
yes |
0.73 |
|
60520P |
Belvedere College |
6 Gt Denmark Street, Dublin 1 |
yes |
1.68 |
|
60540V |
Catholic University School |
89 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin 2 |
yes |
1 |
|
60560E |
St. Marys College |
Rathmines, Dublin 6 |
yes |
1.23 |
|
60561G |
St. Michaels College |
Ailesbury Road, Dublin 4 |
yes |
1.23 |
|
60570H |
Terenure College |
Templeogue Road, Terenure, Dublin 6W |
yes |
0.48 |
|
60630W |
St Killian’s Deutsche Schule |
Roebuck Road, Clonskeagh, Dublin 14 |
yes |
0.44 |
|
60640C |
Sandford Park School Ltd |
Sandford Road, Ranelagh, Dublin 6 |
yes |
0.37 |
|
60650F |
St. Andrews College |
Booterstown Ave, Blackrock, Co Dublin |
yes |
0.61 |
|
60660I |
St. Patricks Cathedral G.S |
St Patricks Close, Dublin 8 |
yes |
0 |
|
60670L |
The High School |
Danum, Zion Road, Rathgar |
yes |
1.91 |
|
60820E |
Loreto College |
53 St Stephens Green, Dublin 2 |
yes |
0.37 |
|
60910F |
Alexandra College |
Milltown, Dublin 6 |
yes |
0.09 |
|
60930L |
Rosemont School |
Temple Road, Blackrock, Co Dublin |
yes |
0.12 |
|
61010U |
Wesley College |
Ballinteer, Dublin 16 |
yes |
1.4 |
|
68071G |
John Scottus Secondary School |
74/76 Morehampton Road, Donnybrook, Dublin 4 |
yes |
1.14 |
|
60010P |
Loreto Secondary School |
Balbriggan, Co. Dublin |
no |
1.05 |
|
60021U |
St. Marys Secondary School |
Baldoyle, Dublin 13 |
no |
0.14 |
|
60041D |
Coláiste Eoin |
Baile an Bhóthair, Bóthair Stigh Lorgan, Co. Atha Cliath |
no |
1.48 |
|
60042F |
Coláiste Íosagáin |
Bóthar Stigh Lorgan, Baile an Bhóthair, Co. Átha Cliath |
no |
0 |
|
60050E |
Oatlands College |
Mount Merrion, Blackrock, Co. Dublin |
no |
1.09 |
|
60070K |
Dominican College |
Sion Hill, Blackrock, Co. Dublin |
no |
0.61 |
|
60081P |
Rockford Manor Secondary School |
Stradbrook Road, Blackrock, Co. Dublin |
no |
0.76 |
|
60092U |
Clonkeen College |
Clonkeen Road, Blackrock, Co. Dublin |
no |
0.44 |
|
60121B |
Moyle Park College |
Clondalkin, Dublin 22 |
no |
5.19 |
|
60122D |
Coláiste Bríde |
New Road, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 |
no |
4.35 |
|
60200U |
Presentation Brothers Glasthule |
Glasthule, Dún Laoghaire, Co. Dublin |
no |
0.41 |
|
60261R |
St. Benildus College |
Upper Kilmacud Road, Stillorgan, Blackrock |
no |
1.06 |
|
60262T |
St. Laurence College |
Loughlinstown, Dublin 18 |
no |
4.42 |
|
60263V |
St. Josephs College |
Lucan, Co. Dublin |
no |
2.18 |
|
60264A |
Coláiste Phádraig CBS |
Roselawn, Lucan, Co. Dublin |
no |
1.88 |
|
60280V |
Belcamp College |
Malahide Road, Dublin 17 |
no |
0.39 |
|
60290B |
St. Pauls College |
Sybil Hill, Raheny, Dublin 5 |
no |
0 |
|
60291D |
Árdscoil La Salle |
Raheny Road, Raheny, Dublin 5 |
no |
2.54 |
|
60300B |
Manor House |
Watermill Road, Raheny, Dublin 5 |
no |
2.02 |
|
60341P |
Sancta Maria College |
Ballyroan, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16 |
no |
2.34 |
|
60342R |
Colaiste Eanna CBS |
Ballyroan, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16 |
no |
0 |
|
60343T |
St. Joseph’s Secondary School |
Convent Lane, Rush, Co. Dublin |
no |
4.31 |
|
60361V |
St. Raphaela’s Secondary School |
Upper Kilmacud Road, Stillorgan, Co. Dublin |
no |
1.5 |
|
60370W |
St. Fintan’s High School |
Dublin Road, Sutton, Dublin 13 |
no |
1 |
|
60380C |
St. Dominic’s High School |
Santa Sabina, Greenfield Road, Sutton |
no |
2.23 |
|
60383I |
Coláiste Choilm |
Dublin Road, Swords, Co. Dublin |
no |
2.84 |
|
60390F |
St. Josephs C.B.S. |
Merville Avenue, Fairview, Dublin 3 |
no |
1 |
|
60400F |
St. Vincents C.B.S. Glasnevin |
Glasnevin, Dublin 11 |
no |
2.23 |
|
60410I |
C.B.S. James Street |
James’s Street, Dublin 8 |
no |
3.77 |
|
60420L |
Ardscoil Rís |
Griffith Avenue, Dublin 9 |
no |
0.85 |
|
60430O |
St. Pauls C.B.S. |
Christian Brothers, Nth. Brunswick Street, Dublin 7 |
no |
2.57 |
|
60440R |
O’Connell School |
North Richmond Street, Dublin 1 |
no |
2.91 |
|
60450U |
Coláiste Mhuire |
Bothar Rath Tó, Baile Atha Cliath 7 |
no |
1 |
|
60470D |
Synge Street CBS |
Synge Street, Dublin 8 |
no |
2.19 |
|
60471F |
St. David’s C.B.S. |
Malahide Road, Artane, Dublin 5 |
no |
4.38 |
|
60480G |
Meanscoil Iognáid Rís |
Long Mile Road, Walkinstown, Dublin 12 |
no |
1.11 |
|
60481I |
St. Aidan’s C.B.S. |
Collins Avenue Ext., Whitehall, Dublin 9 |
no |
1.62 |
|
60490J |
C.B.S. Westland Row |
Westland Row, Dublin 2 |
no |
2.06 |
|
60491L |
St. Declan’s College |
Nephin Road, Cabra, Dublin 7 |
no |
3.58 |
|
60500J |
Marian College |
Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 |
no |
0.88 |
|
60510M |
St. Johns College De La Salle |
Le Fanu Road, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10 |
no |
2.06 |
|
60511O |
Beneavin De La Salle College |
Beneavin Road, Finglas, Dublin 11 |
no |
2.22 |
|
60550B |
Chanel College |
Coolock, Dublin 5 |
no |
1.61 |
|
60571J |
Patrician College |
Deanstown Avenue, Finglas West, Dublin 11 |
no |
1.54 |
|
60581M |
St. Kevins College |
Ballygall Road East, Finglas, Dublin 11 |
no |
0.66 |
|
60690R |
Dominican College |
Griffith Avenue, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 |
no |
1.39 |
|
60700R |
Scoil Chaitriona |
Bóthar Mobhí, Glasnaíon, Atha Cliath 9 |
no |
1.99 |
|
60720A |
Saint Dominic’s Secondary School |
Ballyfermot, Dublin 10 |
no |
6.59 |
|
60731F |
St. Dominics College |
Cabra, Dublin 7 |
no |
1.79 |
|
60732H |
Caritas College |
Drumfinn Road, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10 |
no |
3 |
|
60741I |
St. Michaels Secondary School |
Wellmount Road, Finglas, Dublin 11 |
no |
3.15 |
|
60750J |
Holy Faith Secondary School |
1 Belgrove Road, Clontarf, Dublin 3 |
no |
0.58 |
|
60770P |
St. Mary’s Secondary School |
Holy Faith Convent, Glasnevin, Dublin 11 |
no |
1 |
|
60780S |
St. Mary’s Secondary School |
Haddington Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4 |
no |
0.36 |
|
60791A |
St. Marys Secondary School |
St. Brigids Road, Killester, Dublin 5 |
no |
0.91 |
|
60792C |
Presentation College |
Warrenmount, Dublin 8 |
no |
2.69 |
|
60800V |
Loreto College |
Crumlin Road, Dublin 12 |
no |
3.53 |
|
60810B |
Loreto College |
Swords, Co. Dublin |
no |
0.5 |
|
60840K |
Maryfield College |
Glandore Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 |
no |
0.77 |
|
60841M |
Rosary College |
Armagh Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12 |
no |
1.19 |
|
60843Q |
St. Josephs Secondary School |
Stanhope Street, Dublin 7 |
no |
1.73 |
|
60851P |
Assumption Secondary School |
Walkinstown, Dublin 12 |
no |
0 |
|
60852R |
Mater Christi |
Cappagh, Finglas, Dublin 11 |
no |
1.73 |
|
60853T |
Mount Carmel Secondary School |
Kings Inn Street, Dublin 1 |
no |
2.72 |
|
60860Q |
Our Ladys School |
Templeogue Road, Terenure, Dublin 6W |
no |
1.32 |
|
60870T |
Our Lady of Mercy College |
Beaumont, Dublin 9 |
no |
1.55 |
|
60871V |
Mercy College Coolock |
St. Brendans Drive, Coolock, Dublin 5 |
no |
1.45 |
|
60872A |
Mercy Secondary School |
Goldenbridge, Incicore, Dublin 8 |
no |
2.7 |
|
60890C |
St. Louis High School |
Charleville Road, Rathmines, Dublin 6 |
no |
2.59 |
|
60891E |
Our Ladys Grove |
Goatstown Road, Dublin 14 |
no |
1.02 |
|
60892G |
The Teresian School |
Stillorgan Road, Donnybrook, Dublin 4 |
no |
0.12 |
|
60902G |
St. Pauls Secondary School |
Greenhills, Dublin 12 |
no |
3.2 |
|
60991I |
Our Lady of Mercy Secondary School |
Mourne Road, Drimnagh, Dublin 12 |
no |
2.02 |
|
61020A |
Stratford College |
1 Zion Road, Rathgar, Dublin 6 |
no |
0.93 |
|
70010V |
Balbriggan Community College |
Pine Ridge, Chapel Street, Balbriggan |
no |
4.63 |
|
70020B |
Grange Community College |
Grange Road, Donaghmede, Dublin 13 |
no |
1.48 |
|
70021D |
Coláiste de hÍde, |
Páirc An Chnoic, Bóthar an tSeanbhábhúin |
no |
0.84 |
|
70040H |
Deansrath Community College |
New Nangor Road, Clondalkin |
no |
4.91 |
|
70041J |
Collinstown Park Community College |
Neilstown Road, Rowlagh |
no |
9.73 |
|
70042L |
St. Kevin’s Community College |
Fonthill Road, Clondalkin |
no |
5.46 |
|
70060N |
Dundrum College |
Sydenham Road, Dundrum, Dublin 14 |
no |
0.49 |
|
70080T |
Lucan Community College |
Esker Drive, Lucan, Co. Dublin |
no |
1.7 |
|
70081V |
Riversdale Community College, |
Blanchardstown Rd North, |
no |
5.11 |
|
70100W |
Coláiste Chilliain, |
Bóthar Nangor, Cluain Dolcáin, Baile Atha |
no |
0.77 |
|
70120F |
St. Finians Community College, |
Swords, Co. Dublin |
no |
4.76 |
|
70121H |
Fingal Community College, |
Seatown Road, Swords, Co. Dublin |
no |
4.66 |
|
70130I |
Greenhills College, |
Limekiln Avenue, Greenhills, Dublin 12 |
no |
0.98 |
|
70140L |
Firhouse Community College, |
Firhouse Road, Dublin 24 |
no |
1.9 |
|
70141N |
Jobstown Community College, |
Jobstown, Tallaght, Dublin 24 |
no |
9.32 |
|
70150O |
Colaiste Eanna |
Kilkieran Road, Cabra, Dublin 7 |
no |
4.04 |
|
70160R |
St. Kevins College |
Clogher Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12 |
no |
2.51 |
|
70180A |
Colaiste Eoin |
Cappagh Road, Finglas, Dublin 11 |
no |
3.61 |
|
70200D |
Ringsend Technical Institute |
Cambridge Road, Ringsend, Dublin 4 |
no |
2.7 |
|
70240P |
Kylemore College |
Kylemore Road, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10 |
no |
7.31 |
|
70250S |
Marino College |
14-20 Marino Mart, Fairview, Dublin 3 |
no |
4.6 |
|
70260V |
St. Mac Dara’s Community College, |
Wellington Lane, Templeogue |
no |
0.91 |
|
70300H |
Pearse College |
Clogher Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12 |
no |
0.23 |
|
70310K |
Plunkett College |
Swords Road, Whitehall, Dublin 9 |
no |
2.03 |
|
70321P |
Margaret Alyward Community College |
The Thatch Road, Whitehall, Dublin 9 |
no |
2.05 |
|
70330Q |
Colaiste Dhulaigh |
Barryscourt Road, Coolock, Dublin 17 |
no |
7.3 |
|
70340T |
Liberties College |
Bull Alley Street, Dublin 8 |
no |
1.97 |
|
76062B |
Castleknock Community College, |
Carpenterstown Road |
no |
5.95 |
|
76065H |
Coláiste Cois Life, |
Gleann an Ghrífín, Leamhcán, Co. Átha Cliath |
no |
0.45 |
|
76077O |
Larkin Community College |
1 Champions Avenue, Dublin 1 |
no |
5.9 |
|
76078Q |
Skerries Community College |
Skerries, Co. Dublin |
no |
2.82 |
|
76085N |
Gaelcholáiste Reachrann |
Bóthar Mhainister na Gráinsí, Domhnach Míde, Baile Atha Cliath 13 |
no |
0.8 |
|
76092K |
Presentation College |
Terenure, Dublin 6W |
no |
0.2 |
|
81001I |
Newpark Comprehensive School |
Newtown Park Avenue, Blackrock, Co. Dublin |
no |
10.32 |
|
81002K |
Mount Temple Comprehensive School |
Malahide Road, Dublin 3 |
no |
3.79 |
|
81017A |
Trinity Comprehensive School |
Ballymun Road, Ballymun, Dublin 9 |
no |
6.07 |
|
91301D |
Holy Family Community School |
Kilteel Road, Rathcoole, Co. Dublin |
no |
4.24 |
|
91302F |
Phobailscoil Iosolde |
Palmerstown, Dublin 20 |
no |
4.29 |
|
91305L |
Ballinteer Community School |
Ballinteer, Dublin 16 |
no |
8.08 |
|
91310E |
Cabinteely Community School |
Cabinteely, Dublin 18 |
no |
3.82 |
|
91315O |
Scoil Phobail Chuil Mhin |
Cluain Saileach, Baile Atha Cliath 15 |
no |
5.86 |
|
91316Q |
Blakestown Community School |
Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 |
no |
6.18 |
|
91318U |
The Donahies Community School |
Streamville Road, Dublin 13 |
no |
4.81 |
|
91324P |
Portmarnock Community School |
Carrickhill Road, Portmarnock, Co. Dublin |
no |
1.75 |
|
91325R |
Malahide Community School |
Broomfield, Malahide, Co. Dublin |
no |
5.22 |
|
91330K |
Holy Child Community School |
Pearse Street, Sallynoggin, Co. Dublin |
no |
5.86 |
|
91332O |
St. Marks Community School |
Cookstown Road, Tallaght, Dublin 24 |
no |
4.44 |
|
91335U |
Tallaght Community School |
Balrothery, Tallaght, Dublin 24 |
no |
2.85 |
|
91336W |
Old Bawn Community School |
Old Bawn, Tallaght, Dublin 24 |
no |
4.55 |
|
91337B |
Killinarden Community School |
Killinarden, Tallaght, Dublin 24 |
no |
6 |
|
91338D |
St. Aidan’s Community School |
Brookfield, Tallaght, Dublin 24 |
no |
8.14 |
|
91339F |
Hartstown Community School |
Hartstown, Clonsilla, Dublin 15 |
no |
3.36 |
|
91341P |
Greendale Community School |
Briarfield Villas, Kilbarrack, Dublin 5 |
no |
3.07 |
|
91342R |
Pobalscoil Neasain |
Baldoyle, Dublin 13 |
no |
2.53 |
|
91343T |
St. Tiernan’s Community School |
Parkvale, Balally, Dublin 16 |
no |
9.56 |
|
91344V |
Rosmini Community School |
Grace Park Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9 |
no |
4.65 |
|
91510M |
Pobail Scoil Naomh Coilm Cille |
Scholarstown Road, Knocklyon, Dublin 16 |
no |
2.56 |
554 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the regulations that exist regarding the expulsion of a pupil from a Youthreach programme; if written notification needs to be given regarding this expulsion; if prior verbal or written notice needs to be provided and the person by whom it is provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39086/06]
555 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the procedures that exist for a pupil to appeal an expulsion or suspension from a Youthreach programme. [39087/06]
556 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if parents of pupils on Youthreach programmes are entitled to request files relating to the education of their child under the Education Act, 1998; if this includes information on discipline matters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39088/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 554 to 556, inclusive, together.
The Youthreach Programme is an Inter-Departmental initiative which provides two years integrated education, training and work experience to young people aged 15-20 years who are at least six months in the labour market and who have left school early without any qualifications or vocational training.
The programme funded by my Department is delivered in out of school centres and is managed by Vocational Education Committees (VECs). A general code of conduct is recommended in the ‘Procedures in respect of Youthreach/Senior Travellers Centres' issued to VECs by the Vocational Support Services Unit. The Youthreach Quality Framework is currently being rolled out to all centres of education delivering the programme. Under Quality Area 16 of the Framework, all Youthreach centres are expected to have documented a Code of Behaviour.
Expulsion is consequent on a serious breach of a centre's code of behaviour. No separate regulations are in force regarding the expulsion or termination of a trainee's participation on the programme. There is no requirement for written notification nor for prior or written notice. Ordinarily, expulsion is a matter for the centre co-ordinator and the VEC with responsibility for the centre.
Sections 28 and 29 of the Education Act (1998) which refer to appeals against expulsion or exclusion refer to schools and not centres of education. Youthreach centres are classified as centres of education. Procedures for appealing a suspension or expulsion are a matter for the VEC responsible for the centre in question. It is open to the parents of an expelled trainee, or the trainee himself or herself, to make an appeal to the Chief Executive Officer of the VEC.
557 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science if it is proposed to increase the €2.3 million spent in 2005 to support primary schools for the purchase of information technology equipment; if her attention has been drawn to the €100 million plan for schools’ IT in Northern Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39099/06]
The major focus for my Department under the ICT in Schools programme has been the roll-out of broadband connectivity to all recognised schools. This project is being undertaken in partnership with industry, in the context of the joint Government/IBEC — TIF (Telecommunications and Internet Federation) Agreement, to provide local connectivity to schools.
The broadband connectivity is being provided via a Schools National Broadband Network supported by HEAnet, in order to provide managed Internet access, email, security controls and content filtering. A broadband support service is being managed by the National Centre for Technology in Education to assist schools with advice and information relating to the roll-out and ongoing use of their broadband connectivity within the schools network. This programme builds on the investment made in grant aiding schools to develop their internal networks.
I am aware of the approach being taken in Northern Ireland. I can assure the Deputy that I am aware of the benefits that good use of ICT can bring to our children's education and will bear this in mind in considering what areas should be the future priorities for the ICT in Schools Programme.
558 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date on the development of the sabbatical element of the DEIS scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39100/06]
As the Deputy is aware, one of the elements to my Department's DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) plan for education inclusion provides an opportunity for schools participating in the School Support Programme (SSP) to avail of a sabbatical scheme open to both primary and post-primary levels.
This sabbatical scheme is being introduced to create opportunities for school leaders (Principals, Deputies and Assistants) and teachers, who have served for a defined period in a DEIS school, to undertake a period of professional development to enhance their own learning and effectiveness within the context of the SSP. Participants will be required to bring the benefits of this professional development back to their school where it will be expected to positively impact upon teaching and learning, leading to improved student outcomes.
The scheme is being established to ensure that schools in the SSP can continue to attract and retain well-qualified personnel to positions of leadership and teaching on an ongoing basis. The scheme also recognises that professional development can perform an important role in supporting schools participating in the SSP through targeted interventions which focus on key personnel who can bring the benefit of their experience back into their school.
A significant degree of progress has occurred to date and discussions have been held with stakeholders across the education sector on the nature of the scheme and the possible professional development opportunities to be covered by it. At the same time, research is being undertaken into the application of similar schemes in other jurisdictions.
Following a consultation process involving the stakeholders across the education sector, it is intended that a Circular on the scheme will issue in due course inviting applications.
559 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science when the findings of the fact finding review on special schools and special classes will be published; the issues being addressed by the review; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39101/06]
I recognise the unique contribution of special schools and special classes to the education of children with special educational needs and am committed to further developing this area. This is why I have asked my officials to undertake a review of the role of the special school and special class. With inclusion of pupils with special needs becoming a reality for many mainstream schools, it is essential to develop mechanisms to facilitate the sharing of expertise in special schools and to begin the process of creating ‘learning communities of schools'.
The development of such a resource role for the special school is an acknowledgement by my Department of the value of these schools. My Department is most anxious that the skills and expertise that these schools have accumulated in supporting children with special needs is utilised to best advantage in providing for such children going forward. In addition, it will provide clear pathways towards enabling all schools within a geographical area to liaise professionally in a collaborative and co-operative fashion.
The initial part of the review involves the gathering and collation of information and views in relation to special schools and classes. This is being undertaken on behalf of my Department by St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, Dublin 9. It is envisaged that this part of the process will be completed by the end of December 2006. The second phase of the review will be managed by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) and will involve wider consultation with the schools and other partners. While I am not in a position to say when this part of the review will be completed by the NCSE, I know that it will be given a high priority and the results will be made available as soon as possible.
The Deputy may also be interested to know that last week I announced that increased investment in special education in 2007 will allow me to dramatically increase the rates of capitation paid to special schools. The increases range from a 30% increase in some payments to a near doubling of the rate for children with physical disabilities. These increases are a tangible demonstration of my commitment to supporting an important role for special schools. The extra payments for children in most special classes in mainstream schools are also being increased. The total cost of these measures will be €1.5 million.
560 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the Annual Competitiveness Report of the National Competitiveness Council, which found, inter alia that less than 50% of four year olds are in education compared with all French and Spanish children and more than 90% of children in Denmark, Britain and Hungary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39102/06]
Early Years Education in Ireland covers the period from birth to six years. My Department is committed to the development of quality early learning opportunities for children.
Following on from the publication of the White Paper on Early Childhood Education "Ready to Learn", the Centre for Early Childhood Development was established and this year published a comprehensive draft quality framework for early childhood education. In addition, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment is developing a national framework for early learning, which will be relevant and useful to all those responsible for children's early learning and development.
A new Early Years Education Policy Unit has been established within my Department and will be co-located with the Office of the Minister for Children, which was established by the Government in December 2005 to maximise the co-ordination of policies for children and young people and to provide an overall strategic policy framework to bring together and promote close co-operation between the relevant areas of my Department, the Department of Health and Children and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
Also, under the new action plan for educational inclusion DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), my Department is developing supports for early childhood education which will complement and add value to existing child-care services in the most disadvantaged communities with a view to ensuring that the overall care and education needs of the children concerned are met in an integrated manner.
561 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date in the review of primary school administration; if she has proposals for the development of administration software packages and on-line transfer of school returns and information; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [39208/06]
A new on-line claims web based system (OLCS) which enables Secondary and Community/Comprehensive schools to input claims for the payment of casual and non casual teachers and special need assistants and record teacher absences on line from the school was introduced on the 6th November, 2006.
It is proposed to extend the on-line claims system to enable primary schools to submit claims for the payment of substitute teachers next year.
My Department is developing a Primary Pupil Database which will monitor the progression of individuals through the education system. The database will be a very useful tool for the Department in evaluating the effectiveness of educational initiatives and I am anxious that it be developed as soon as is practicable. However, I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that the project must be developed carefully to ensure that the final product meets the needs both of schools and of the Department.
562 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Defence if he will explain the much higher than average absenteeism rates in the Defence Forces and the serious shortage of medical staff; the way he will address both of these problems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38478/06]
Sick leave in the Defence Forces was about 14 days per annum per person in the period from October 2005 to 30 September 2006. A SFA report earlier this year identified an average of 10 days absence per person per annum in larger firms.
Military service, due to the robust nature of the physical training regime exposes personnel to a unique range of challenging environments with attendant health risks. The mission of the Medical Corps of the Defence Forces is to ensure and to co-ordinate the provision of medical, dental and pharmaceutical support to the Defence Forces in the execution of their Roles as assigned by Government. Military medical services and their facilities exist to maintain the health of the Defence Forces and to support them in operational and overseas activities.
There is a shortage of medical officers (Doctors) in the Medical Corps. The establishment for Medical Officers is 47 and the current strength is 23, of whom 12 are functioning in front line clinical duties in Ireland amongst Brigades and formations. The services of civilian medical practitioners are regularly engaged to ensure that the primary health care requirements arising in barracks are met. However, the shortage of dedicated doctors impacts on overall management and control, both at the level of local units and nationally in the Medical Corps.
Efforts are ongoing to address the shortage of Medical Officers (Doctors) in the Medical Corps. A recruitment campaign for Doctors is currently underway. This campaign follows on from a recent decision to significantly increase the pay of Doctors and Dentists in the Medical Corps, linking them to the pay of public health doctors and dentists.
A review of the provision of medical services in the Defence Forces initiated as part of the Modernisation Agenda under Sustaining Progress has delivered improvements in this area. This work involves the Department of Defence including military management and the Representative Associations. A revised concept document on the provision of medical services and a patients charter are being prepared. There will be a greater emphasis on the direct provision of medical services and improvements in the maintenance and tracking of patients' records and treatment through computerisation. In the context of the Modernisation agenda arising under "Towards 2016" it is also intended to review the sick leave arrangements for personnel of the Defence Forces.
The work outlined above will assist the Chief of Staff, the Medical Corps and local commanders in their efforts to minimise the instances of sick leave of the Defence Forces and to maintain the general health of the Defence Forces.
563 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Defence if he will clarify the serious mistakes regarding the Niemba Massacre of Irish troops in the Congo in 1960 based on the Government’s inquiry; and if he will support persons (details supplied) on this matter. [38519/06]
As the Deputy is aware I addressed this matter during Priority Questions on Thursday 16 November 2006 last.
The Chief of Staff appointed Col. Tom Behan to examine all aspects of the Niemba ambush. Due to the breadth of this investigation, this process has taken some time. I have now had a chance to review this Report. I would like to congratulate Col. Behan for the time and effort he has expended in researching this sensitive and harrowing episode in Irish Military History.
The ambush occurred almost forty-six years ago. It was the first such action involving the horrific deaths of Defence Forces personnel on a scale which still remains unique. It has never been very far from public consciousness. However, the actual horror of the event has faded from the national psyche at this remove. Reading this Report will bring it back into sharp focus for anybody who will read it. I would like to publicly acknowledge the sacrifice made by all the members of the patrol at that time. I want to again extend my deepest sympathies to the families of all those who died. I would like to take this opportunity to underline the courage, fortitude and tenacity displayed by Privates Kenny and Fitzpatrick in order to survive.
I will now concentrate on the conclusions of the Report. On the 8th of November, 1960, an eleven man patrol, commanded by Lt. Kevin Gleeson was attacked by a large number of Baluba tribesmen while on patrol from their base at Niemba and quickly overwhelmed.
There are two principal areas of controversy in regard to the record of this ambush. Both concern Trooper Browne and Private Kenny. The first question is where exactly did Trooper Browne die, and the second is what did Trooper Browne do to contribute to the survival of Private Kenny. I will address the matter of where Trooper Browne died first. From the extensive research and interviews carried out by Col. Behan, his final conclusion is that Trooper Browne fired his weapon to distract the Baluba attackers from their task of beating Private Kenny to death. He further concludes, on the balance of probabilities, that Trooper Browne managed to then escape his pursuers, wounded or otherwise, making his way to the village of Tundula only to be killed by hostile Balubas two days later. Therefore, the previous supposition that he died at the ambush site and that Baluba tribesmen carried away his remains cannot be substantiated. Likewise, the conclusion outlined above that he died at Tundula cannot be definitively substantiated.
The second area of controversy in regard to the record of the Niemba ambush is what did Trooper Browne do to contribute to the survival of Private Kenny. The report clearly concludes that prior to his escape from the ambush site, Trooper Browne fired his weapon at the Balubas who were intent on beating Private Kenny to death, thereby distracting them and saving his life. The Medal Board convened in 1961 awarded Trooper Browne the Military Medal for Gallantry.
Despite all the research, consultation and interviews there is no absolute certainty achievable in regard to these two matters of controversy. I do however wish to address some of the ambiguity that may have resulted from the two scenarios recorded in the unit history. In the absence of the wide and detailed research available to me now, the best advice previously available to me was that Trooper Browne most likely died at the scene of the ambush and the Baluba tribesmen carried his remains away. This must now be discounted. I wholeheartedly recognise and acknowledge that both Private Kenny (particularly in view of the serious wounds and injuries he sustained), and Private Fitzpatrick survived an horrific encounter with hostile forces, displaying courage, fortitude and tenacity in order to survive until finally rescued. I commend them both for the selfless service they have given their country and hope that this report will bring some peace of mind to them both.
While the award of a medal is not considered appropriate on this occasion, I am examining proposals of how best these two men's contribution can be suitably recognised and honoured. In addition, I intend to invite both at the earliest opportunity to attend a suitable Defence Forces event at which I will acknowledge their contribution publicly. I have also made arrangements for copies of the Official Report on the Niemba Ambush to be placed in the Oireachtas Library.
564 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Defence the number of staff in his Department who have indicated a willingness to decentralise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38594/06]
A total of 56 staff in my Department have volunteered to relocate to Newbridge, Co. Kildare. A further 38 staff from other Government Departments have joined my Department in order to transfer to the new location.
565 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will ringfence special funding to the local authorities for traffic calming measures, such as pedestrian crossings, additional signage and rumble strips, on county and regional roads in view of significant increases in traffic volumes travelling through villages and other built up areas in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38728/06]
583 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will ringfence additional funding to the local authorities for traffic calming measures such as pedestrian crossings, additional signage and rumble strips in view of significant increases in traffic volumes travelling through villages and other built up areas in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38729/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 565 and 583 together.
The provision of traffic calming measures on non-national roads in its area, which would include the provision of pedestrian crossings, road traffic signs and rumble strips, is a matter for Meath County Council to be funded from its own resources, supplemented by State grants provided by my Department. Responsibility for national roads is a matter for the relevant road authority and the National Roads Authority which operates under the aegis of my colleague the Minister for Transport.
The Low Cost Safety Improvement Works scheme of grants for non-national roads was introduced by my Department in 2000 as an extension of the scheme operated on national roads under the auspices of the National Roads Authority (NRA). The NRA assesses applications for grant assistance under the non-national roads scheme on behalf of my Department. The criteria for grant approval are based on accident data, inspection of sites, locations showing demonstrable hazard and discussions between the local authority and the NRA. In 2006, my Department allocated €133,919 to Meath County Council in respect of Low Cost Safety Improvement Works on non-national roads.
Meath County Council may also use Discretionary Improvement Grants provided by my Department to fund such works. In 2006, the Discretionary Improvement grant allocation to Meath County Council is €798,000. The prioritisation of works to be funded from these grants is a matter for Meath County Council.
I intend to announce non-national road grant allocations for 2007 early in the new year.
566 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take in order to avoid potential fines of tens of thousands of euro per day, for each day Ireland is found to be in breach of the Habitats Directive in view of the preliminary opinion given by the Advocate General for the European Court of Justice that Ireland has failed to fulfil its obligations under Article 12 (1) of the Habitats Directive by not taking specific measures for the effective implementation of a system of strict protection for otters, whales, dolphins and the leatherback turtle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39203/06]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 676 of 24 October 2006.
567 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the arrangements made for the establishment of the Irish Heritage Trust; the funding being provided for the trust; the other resources being provided to enable the trust to commence its work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38485/06]
In July this year I announced the incorporation of The Irish Heritage Trust Limited with the mandate: to acquire properties of significant heritage value where there is a risk to such value, so as to provide for their proper conservation, maintenance and presentation; their public enjoyment and appreciation; and public access to them in perpetuity'. The Trust was finalised following receipt of the report of a Steering Group I had established to advise on proposals for governance of the new body.
The Irish Heritage Trust has been established as a charity (company limited by guarantee and not having a share capital) under the Companies Acts. It provides an alternative to State acquisition of major important heritage properties where there is imminent risk to their heritage value. A Chief Executive Officer of the Irish Heritage Trust was appointed in September 2006.
This year €500,000 is being provided from my Department's Vote to meet the establishment and initial running costs of the Trust. The Government has also approved the provision of funding in 2006 of €5 million from my Department's Vote to enable the endowment funds to be established by the Trust. Each property acquired by the Trust must be accompanied by an endowment fund sufficient to conserve, maintain and present the property to the public into the future. Tax relief of up to €6 million in any one year is provided for in the Finance Act 2006 for donors of properties to the Irish Heritage Trust.
The Trust has a strong remit to maximise non-Exchequer resources in support of its activities, to encourage membership and volunteers and to be financially self-sufficient over time. However in its early years the Trust will be reliant on State support and the Government has committed itself to providing this in the initial period.
568 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of the proposed Sutton to Sandyford cycle and pedestrian way; if he is committed to the implementation of this proposal; the estimated costs involved; the extent to which his Department will fund this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38510/06]
The Taoiseach has recently announced the Government's commitment to promote and support the proposed Sutton to Sandyford ("S2S") cycleway and promenade. This project involves the upgrading, where necessary, and linkage of various existing sections of paths and cycleways, to form a continuous facility around the 22km seafront of Dublin Bay.
The concept of S2S originated with a group of private individuals. A preliminary design and environmental study was carried out under the aegis of the Dublin Regional Authority and was completed in January 2006. Dublin City Council, in co-operation with Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown County Council, is now commissioning feasibility studies and preliminary reports (incorporating topographical surveys and site investigations) for the provision of a combined cycleway/promenade in the two areas around Dublin Bay that currently have no such facilities — the area between the Bull Island Causeway and the Bull Wall on the north side of the bay, and the area between Sandymount Strand and Dún Laoghaire Pier on the south side. These studies will provide cost estimates of feasible options.
My Department will monitor and co-ordinate the activities of the various parties that would have a role or involvement in the delivery of S2S — these include the three Dublin authorities whose functional areas adjoin the bay, the Dublin Docklands Development Authority, the Office of Public Works, Íarnrod Éireann, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the private individuals who initiated the project.
The question of funding from my Department towards this project is under active consideration, and decisions in this regard will be informed by the outcome of the feasibility studies referred to above.
569 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will conduct a full and thorough review of the shared ownership scheme in order to reflect the reality of the property market and address the inability of many first time buyers to purchase a home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38522/06]
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 (up to €462,500), 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.
While there are no plans at present to alter the terms of the scheme, I am committed to keeping it under review.
570 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding provided by his Department to date for a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38568/06]
In 2006, a grant of €500,000 was allocated to North Tipperary County Council, under the EU Co-Financed Specific Improvements Grant scheme, for the Thurles Link Road, which is intended to link the R498 and the N62.
571 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action taken following the meeting with the CSNA in relation to the returns of newspapers and magazines (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38585/06]
A Joint Industry Taskforce, comprising the Regional Newspapers Association of Ireland (RNAI), the Convenience Stores & Newsagents Association (CSNA) formerly known as the 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.
572 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the stage the proposed extension of the Tuam town sewerage scheme to include Bermingham Road is at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38586/06]
The Tuam Town Water Distribution Scheme has been approved for construction in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 in conjunction with Stage 2 of the Tuam Main Drainage Scheme. Galway County Council's contract documents for the combined project were received in my Department earlier this month and are being dealt with as quickly as possible.
Details of the areas proposed to be served by the sewerage works may be obtained from Galway County Council.
573 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his strategies on global warming; and if he will make this a priority issue. [38624/06]
I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 4 and 5 of 8 November 2006.
574 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status in relation to a sewage scheme (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38647/06]
Information requested from Donegal County Council in relation to the Council's application for a procurement/construction stage budget for the Malin Town Sewerage Scheme has recently been received in my Department and is being dealt with as quickly as possible.
575 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department will provide copies of all the records it holds regarding a group (detail supplied) in County Sligo including details of all communications between his Department and Sligo County Council, the scheme or others and any recent representations in which the scheme is mentioned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38648/06]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 257 of 2 November 2006.
576 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that where an applicant purchasing a house under the affordable housing scheme with a local authority mortgage receives a mortgage subsidy from the local authority, it is then refunded by his Department to the local authority; if his attention has further been drawn to a mechanism to facilitate the same where the affordable house buyer receives their mortgage from an outside lender other than a local authority; if this mechanism does exist if it is functioning to its full capacity; if there is no mechanism in place, when he plans to introduce one; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38649/06]
Under the affordable housing schemes administered by the local authorities, an annual mortgage subsidy ranging from €1,050 to €2,550 is available to eligible persons whose household income in the preceding tax year was €28,000 or less. The full amount of mortgage subsidy allowed to applicants is recouped by my Department to local authorities on foot of claims received from them.
Given that eligible applicants under the subsidy scheme would normally avail of a loan from a housing authority, no provision was made to extend the scheme to include mortgages provided by private lending institutions. However, my Department is at present examining mechanisms to extend the benefits of the subsidy scheme to potential applicants with mortgages provided by these institutions and who may meet the terms of the scheme.
577 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the breakdown of all the money received by each local authority from developers under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended in 2002. [38660/06]
578 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the breakdown of the number of affordable and social houses built by each local authority under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 since its enactment; and the cost of building those houses. [38661/06]
579 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the breakdown of the amount of on site lands transferred to each local authority under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 since its enactment; and the value of those lands. [38662/06]
580 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the breakdown of the amount of off-site lands transferred to each local authority under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended in 2002; and the value of those lands. [38663/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 577 to 580, inclusive, 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.
Social and affordable housing acquired under Part V is built as part of the overall development and, as such, the cost of individual housing units for each local authority is not available. Information on the location and value of land/sites acquired under Part V is not available in my Department.
581 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Government is informed by the British Government on the transfer of nuclear materials on the Irish Sea, particularly the transit of plutonium from Sellafield to Cherbourg onboard the Atlantic Osprey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38664/06]
I refer to my reply to Question No. 1 on 4 May 2006. Shipments of radioactive material, including MOX fuel, are subject to international maritime regulations, including the right of passage, and to strict international safety standards applicable to the marine transport of such material. The recent shipment of MOX fuel from the UK was the subject of a diplomatic démarche between the UK and Ireland, in accordance with well established procedures between Coastal and Shipping States. As a result of our efforts over the years, information is made available to Ireland on a voluntary and confidential basis by the Governments of shipping states, principally, Japan, France and the UK, in relation to shipments of radioactive material. This information is transmitted to relevant Government operational authorities such as the Irish Coast Guard who will monitor the situation. The Government received an assurance from the UK that the recent MOX Fuel shipment would not enter Irish territorial waters and that the shipment complies with a stringent system of regulation established in line with internationally agreed standards and recommendations. The long standing views and policy of the Irish Government, which oppose the continued shipment of nuclear wastes and spent fuels through the Irish Sea, were again clearly expressed to the UK Government representatives.
The MOX Plant at Sellafield utilises plutonium, separated during reprocessing of spent fuel for foreign customers at Sellafield, and returns it in the form of MOX fuel for use in nuclear reactors. The views of the Irish Government on shipments to and from Sellafield have been argued consistently and at all levels and were raised during the course of the international legal proceedings instituted by the Irish Government under the United National Convention on the Law of the Sea in relation to the MOX plant itself.
Ireland, in its proceedings before the UNCLOS Arbitral Tribunal, forcefully contended that the MOX Plant is inextricably linked with the operation of THORP, with all that this entails in relation to marine radioactive discharges to the Irish Sea, marine transports of nuclear wastes and fuels and our ongoing safety concerns. These concerns, regrettably, are regularly reinforced by the poor ongoing safety record at the Sellafield complex and more recently by the serious incident at the THORP Plant in April 2005.
Because of these concerns the Irish Government will continue to use every diplomatic, political and legal route available to bring about the safe and orderly closure of the Sellafield plant.
582 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to the Doolin and Liscannon sewerage schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38702/06]
The Doolin Sewerage Scheme, which is being advanced as a grouped project with schemes for Ballyvaughan and Corofin is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007. Clare County Council's updated Water Services Pricing Policy Report and Economic Review for the project, which were received last month, are being examined in my Department and are being dealt with as quickly as possible. The Liscannor Sewerage Scheme is also being advanced as part of a grouped project (involving Ennistymon, Miltown Malbay and Spanish Point) and is included in the Investment Programme to commence construction in 2007. The Council's Preliminary Report and Water Services Pricing Policy Report for the scheme are also under examination in my Department and are being dealt with as quickly as possible.
584 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will engage with local authorities with a view to making available on request a list of the voters being deleted from the electoral register; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38934/06]
586 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will extend beyond 25 November 2006 the deadline to accept requests for amending the Draft Register of Electors in view of the difficulties being experienced by local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39000/06]
587 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures he had put in place for people who were illiterate and could not read any notification regarding the deletion of their names from the Register of Electors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39001/06]
597 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has carried out an audit or is otherwise satisfied that the detailed procedures for the carrying out of fieldwork for the compiling of the Register of Electors were complied with and in particular the procedure providing that each household in the State was visited at least twice if necessary and provided with forms and information. [39055/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 584, 586, 587 and 597 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; house to house or other sufficient enquiries must be made for this purpose.
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 Register; over 1,500 personnel were engaged in this work. 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 at least twice and provided with forms and information, 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.
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. A national publicity and awareness campaign involving TV, radio, press and outdoor advertising commenced on 11 September. Implementation by local authorities of the measures which I announced in April has resulted in the most extensive electoral registration campaign in decades. The provision for extensive house to house enquiries would have been of particular assistance to persons with literacy difficulties.
The process is not finished. The Draft Register of Electors has been published by all local authorities and is available for checking in council offices, libraries, Garda stations, post offices and online at www.checktheregister.ie. The Final Register will be published on 1 February and comes into force on 15 February. Anyone not on the Final Register can apply for inclusion on the supplementary register which is open up to 15 days before polling day.
Rule 6 of the Second Schedule to the Electoral Act 1992 sets out those persons to whom copies of the Draft Register must be sent by local authorities. It is a matter for authorities to decide upon any requests that may be made to them for further information regarding the Draft Register, taking all relevant factors into account.
In relation to the need for further time to allow the public to submit corrections to the Register, I have now received requests from a number of local authorities seeking some additional time to complete their work. I have already stated that I would consider any such requests for time extensions sympathetically. Rather than confine the extension to the 3 councils that have to date sought an extension, I have decided to provide an extension of time to all councils to complete their work on the register up until 29 December.
In these circumstances I have also decided to give an additional fortnight to members of the public for submitting corrections to their council up until 9 December. I have also decided to request councils to hold registration clinics in council offices and public libraries up until 9 December to further facilitate the public. I will be providing for these changes by way of amendment to the Electoral (Amendment) Bill 2006, now before the Dáil. There will also be a number of consequential changes to the dates County Registrars to complete their work on the Register. However, the final date for entry into force of the new register will remain unchanged, i.e. 15 February 2007.
585 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the procedures in place to ensure that the auditing of energy standards for new residential buildings will be carried out by an independent impartial party; and the monitoring mechanism that will be introduced to oversee the proper execution of the auditing process. [38947/06]
Building Energy Ratings (BER) for new dwellings commencing on or after 1 January 2007 will be issued by registered assessors who satisfy the requirements of the relevant Training Specification, as published by Sustainable Energy Ireland on 6 October 2006. A comprehensive Quality Assurance system is being put in place, which will involve quality control of calculation procedures, software validation, error detection, and auditing of assessors and ratings. The BER scheme will be managed centrally by SEI, under the aegis of the Inter Departmental Implementation Group on the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive.
588 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the capital projects undertaken by Waterford County Council in respect of which they were required by his Department to engage external consultants in each of the years 2002 to 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39002/06]
589 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of capital grants or revenue funding granted to Waterford County Council in respect of the cost of external consultants in each of the years 2002 to 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39003/06]
590 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the capital projects undertaken by Waterford City Council in respect of which they were required by his Department to engage external consultants in each of the years 2002 to 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39004/06]
591 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of capital grants or revenue funding granted to Waterford City Council that was in respect of the cost of external consultants in each of the years 2002 to 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39005/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 588 to 591, inclusive, together.
While it is normal for local authorities to engage consultants for capital schemes funded by my Department, this is not specified by my Department as a necessary requirement. Where applicable, the costs of consultancy services associated with local authority capital projects funded by my Department are included to required levels in the overall approved project costs and the associated expenditure is recouped by my Department. Where design consultants are engaged on water services and local authority housing contracts the average fee is 7.5% inclusive of VAT on the contract sum (exclusive of VAT); the incidence of consultancy fees being incurred on the Non-national roads programme is minimal as most of the design work is undertaken in-house by local authorities. Consultancy costs as a component of the overall project costs are not disaggregated for the purposes of my Department's records and therefore separate financial information is not readily available in my Department in relation to consultancy costs for individual projects.
New arrangements are being introduced in 2007 under which fixed price lump sum consultancy fees will apply to the procurement of external consultants by local authorities.
592 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the upgrading of Kilmallock sewerage scheme. [39007/06]
The Kilmallock Sewerage Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 as a scheme to commence construction in 2007. My Department is awaiting submission of Limerick County Council's detailed design and contract documents for the scheme.
593 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress towards the provision of sewerage facilities for Monaghan Town Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39034/06]
The Monaghan Town Sewerage Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, at an estimated cost of €26.8m. Monaghan County Council's Preliminary Report for the scheme was approved by my Department in June 2005. The submission of the Council's Contract Documents for the scheme is awaited.
594 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress towards the provision of sewerage facilities for Ballybay Town Council; when funding will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39035/06]
595 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress towards the provision of sewerage facilities for Castleblayney Town Council; when funding will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39036/06]
596 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress towards the provision of sewerage facilities for Clones Town Council; when funding will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39037/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 594 to 596, inclusive, together.
The wastewater schemes for Ballybay, Castleblaney and Clones are being advanced as a grouped project under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 at an overall estimated cost of €6.63m. I approved Monaghan County Council's brief for the appointment of consultants to prepare a Preliminary Report for the project in February 2006 and the submission of the Preliminary Report is now awaited.
598 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has granted Cork County Council, northern division, funding to augment the water supply to Mallow town and environs; the source of the supply and the cost of same. [39057/06]
The Mallow/Ballyviniter Regional Water Supply Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 at an estimated cost of €8.4m. I recently approved Cork County Council's Preliminary Report for the scheme. Details of the proposed source may be obtained from the Council.
599 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 546 of 14 November 2006 and the meeting held between the developer and his officials on that date, if his Department will accept a certificate from the British Agreement Board confirming a 60 year guarantee for the whole wall system and a 30 year guarantee for the plaster in line with EU standards; if he will expedite confirmation of acceptance of this standard in order that the issue of floor area compliance certificates can be finalised by the company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39103/06]
A Floor Area Compliance Certificate can only issue where the standards and requirements of the Building Regulations and Part C Technical Standards of the HA1 Explanatory Memorandum have been complied with and, in particular, the required 60-year durability of the complete wall system with a normal level of maintenance. My Department will, on receipt of the documentation in relation to the certification referred to, examine its content in line with the required standards with a view to an early decision.
600 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the minimum and maximum recommended limit for a percolation test in order to qualify for planning permission under the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 and relevant Acts of the Oireachtas; the minimum and maximum recommended limit for a T test in order to qualify for planning permission; if a variation is allowed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39209/06]
Septic tanks installed on or after 1 June 1992 must comply with Part H of the National Building Regulations. The relevant Technical Guidance Document (TGD)-H (Drainage and Waste Water Disposal) calls up the following standards:
Septic tanks serving single houses: Irish Standard Recommendations SR6 of 1991 for Domestic Effluent Treatment and Disposal from Single Dwellings, issued by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI); and
Septic tanks serving groups of houses: British Standard B.S. 6297: 1983 (incorporating amendment No. 1 of 1990), a Code of Practice for the Design and Installation of Small Sewage Treatment Works, issue by the British Standards Institution (BSI).
My Department issued a Circular Letter to planning authorities on 31 July 2003 which dealt with groundwater quality in the context of planning decisions. This circular reminded planning authorities that in assessing planning applications they should consider, as well as the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, other relevant Government and Ministerial policies. In this regard, the attention of planning authorities was drawn to the vital importance of good siting and design of necessary development in rural areas; they were also reminded that the current standard for domestic effluent treatment and disposal from single dwelling houses is set out in Recommendation SR6: 1991. Reference was also made to the Environmental Protection Agency's Manual on Treatment Systems for Single Houses (2000), designed to help planning authorities, builders and others to deal with the complexities of on-site systems, including newer packaged systems. This manual is currently being revised and the intention is that it will supersede SR6: 1991, which will then be withdrawn by the NSAI. My Department plans to amend TGD-H, to call up the EPA Manual, as soon as it is published. The Circular also stated that innovative effluent treatment systems should be certified by the NSAI Irish Agreement Board (IAB) or by the Agreement Board (or equivalent) of an EEA Member State — where the latter certificate ensures in use an equivalent level of safety and suitability.
A planning authority is currently entitled to request any information on site suitability for an on-site waste water disposal system from the applicant that it considers necessary to make a decision on an application for planning permission. I intend to make revised planning regulations shortly which will require applicants, in cases where it is proposed to dispose of wastewater from the proposed development other than to a public sewer, to submit information on the on-site treatment system proposed and evidence as to the suitability of the site for the system proposed with the planning application.
601 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the Clonmel Wilderness Carrigeen regeneration scheme; when the scheme will be approved; the timescale for the scheme; the commencement date, duration of work and completion date for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39210/06]
My Department is currently considering the proposals put forward by Clonmel Borough Council in relation to the proposed regeneration of Carrigeen and Wilderness Grove.
