Vol. 628 No. 5
10 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on accommodating the Royal Irish Academy of music on the National Concert Hall site in view of the space available following the withdrawal of UCD from Earlsfort Terrace; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40881/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question Number 58 dated 26 October 2006. As I stated in my reply to that Parliamentary Question, the position is that there is no proposal to relocate the Royal Irish Academy of Music in the redeveloped National Concert Hall.
The redeveloped National Concert Hall, which will include three auditoria, will have a much greater space requirement than the existing National Concert Hall. It will be a Public Private Partnership project. An Interagency Steering Committee for the redevelopment of the National Concert Hall has been established and it will be chaired by the Secretary General of my Department, Mr. Philip Furlong. The inaugural meeting will take place on 4th December 2006 and this Committee will oversee the procurement, negotiation and construction phases of the Design/Build/Finance/Maintain Public Private Partnership for the redevelopment of the National Concert Hall.
11 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of additional sports funding that will be provided in 2007; his views on whether it is sufficient; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40841/06]
The recently published Abridged Estimates of Public Expenditure for 2007 provides for a total budget of over €316 million for sport, an increase of 30% over 2006. The breakdown of the allocations under each of the subheads is outlined in the publication.
I am satisfied that this level of investment following on a period of significant funding for sport
will continue to improve the level and nature of our sporting infrastructure at national, regional and local level throughout the country,
will enable the Irish Sports Council to roll out the programmes and initiatives required to improve standards of performance in sport and increase the levels of participation as outlined in the Council's 3 year Strategy, and
will support the activities of Bord na gCon and Horseracing Ireland in the development of these important industries.
This continued unprecedented level of investment in sport is clear evidence of the importance which the Government attaches to the putting in place of modern well equipped and well managed sporting facilities supported by a wide range of programmes which are having a real benefit to our communities.
12 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the action he proposes to take regarding the implementation of the recommendations of the Dalton Report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40886/06]
On February 1st, 2006, I appointed Mr. Tim Dalton, former Secretary General of the Department of Justice, Equality, and Law Reform, to carry out an independent assessment concerning corporate governance and related matters affecting Bord na gCon. Mr. Dalton delivered his Report on 5th April, 2006.
On 4th July, 2006, the Government approved specific actions to be taken in line with the recommendations of the Dalton Report. These included:
the drafting of legislation, as a matter of urgency, to implement key recommendations made in the Dalton Report relating to the tenure of the Chairman and the Board of Bord na gCon, to increase the size of the Board from seven to nine members, and to arrange for the reconstitution of the Board along these lines as soon as circumstances permit;
an examination of the options for the establishment of a Doping Control Committee as an agency independent of Bord na gCon;
the immediate publication of the Report; and
a root and branch review of the Greyhound Industry Acts 1958-1993 with a view to bringing legislation dealing with the greyhound industry into line with best current practice.
The Report has already been published. The former Chair has resigned, and I have appointed a new Chair, Mr. Dick O'Sullivan and another new member in succession to an outgoing member. The Board of Bord na gCon has sought applications by public advertisement for the position of Chief Executive, and the process of selecting a new CEO is now well advanced.
My Department has prepared an outline General Scheme of the Bill needed to give effect to the changes necessary regarding the tenure of the Chair, and the size and composition of the Board of Bord na gCon, and the matter has been referred to the Office of the Attorney General for the preparation of a more definitive text for the Bill. This Bill will also address the question of establishing a separate Doping Control function.
A more wide-ranging and fundamental review of the Greyhound Industry Acts is now commencing, and I will revert to Government with the results of that exercise in due course.
13 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will review incentives for the film industry in view of the drop in major film production here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40875/06]
24 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has had discussions with the Department of Finance in regard to the extension of Section 481 film relief in Budget 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40814/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 24 together.
I refer the Deputies to my reply of 26 October last in relation to the incentives available for film production in the State. As I set out in my previous reply, attracting major international productions to the State is a particularly complex business, subject, as it is, to the dynamics of international competition, including new and enhanced incentives, lower cost structures and exchange rates.
My Department's primary role in supporting the film sector relates to the administration of elements of the Section 481 tax relief scheme. Recognising the changing dynamics of this industry, the Government introduced significant improvements to the Section 481 scheme, as recently as the Finance Act 2006. These changes lifted the maximum amount of a film budget that can be raised from €15m. to €35m. and increased the maximum percentage of a project's budget that can be raised from between 55% — 66% to 80%. These changes, designed to increase Ireland's attractiveness as a film-making location, represented the most comprehensive enhancements ever in the scheme.
In conjunction with the Irish Film Board, the total effects of these initiatives are constantly kept under review. Further consideration of the operation of the Section 481 scheme will have to be based on the experience over time of these most recent changes. If deemed appropriate, the matter will be taken up with the Minister for Finance at the relevant time, together with any other available effective proposals, to further promote Ireland's competitiveness as an attractive film location.
14 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the steps he is taking to support regional tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40706/06]
22 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he is satisfied with the regional balance of tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40707/06]
32 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the role of the new Regional Tourism Development Boards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40878/06]
34 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he envisages a role for the new Tourism Regional Development Boards in the revival of the bed and breakfast sector in view of the decline in the number of operators in this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40901/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 14, 22, 32 and 34 together.
As I have advised the House on a number of occasions this year, most recently on 26th October, individual actions and measures relating to tourism promotion or development at regional level are day-to-day functions of the State Tourism Agencies.
CSO statistics for overseas tourism for 2005 are very positive with almost 7 million visitors, and overseas revenue earnings, excluding carrier receipts, up by almost 8% to €3.5 billion. These results represent a very robust performance by the sector in an increasingly competitive industry internationally. Performance to date in 2006, too, is very encouraging with CSO figures for the first nine months of the year showing over 6 million visits to Ireland — an increase of 11% over the same period in 2005, well ahead of Tourism Ireland's target of 4.9% for the year. According to the latest CSO data, there was an increase of 7% in total foreign exchange earnings from tourism for the first six months of the year compared with the same period last year.
The home holiday market is an increasingly important component of the tourism business in Ireland, particularly in terms of seasonal and regional spread. In 2005, 86% of holiday trips and 89% of holiday nights by domestic tourists were spent outside the Dublin area. This offsets, to some extent, the relative strength of Dublin in the overseas visitors market. In 2005, expenditure on domestic tourism was up across all regions — albeit at different rates. CSO figures for the first six months of this year show overall expenditure on domestic trips is up over 9% compared to the same period in 2005.
I believe that the new regional tourism structures will help to optimise the benefits of tourism and help to secure a wider spread of business which, of course, is my policy objective. As Deputies will be aware, on 29 August last I announced the appointment of the Chairs of the five new Regional Tourism Development Boards. I understand from Fáilte Ireland that all the Boards are now in place, and that four Boards have held their inaugural meeting with the fifth due to be held shortly.
The key priority for the new Boards is to ensure a greater focus on the individual needs of each region at a national level and direct involvement for the regions in the development of national policy and tourism strategy. In this regard I expect that each Board will take into account the needs of all sub-sectors of the Tourism industry, including those of the bed and breakfast providers.
While the new regional tourism arrangements provide the potential for enhanced tourism performance in the regions, various region specific initiatives introduced this year by Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland Ltd will further help to address this situation.
In 2006, Fáilte Ireland is investing in excess of €60m on developing regional tourism, from supporting local festivals to building capability and strengthening the tourism product itself. Of this amount Fáilte Ireland is channelling €10m directly to the regions to strengthen and enhance their operational and marketing capabilities this year. This investment is designed to ensure both a high quality visitor servicing experience at key tourist information offices and also a strong overseas promotional effort.
The "Super-Regions" initiative launched by Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland earlier this year is based on new strategic marketing alliances between adjoining Tourism Regions, positioning them to more fully exploit international market opportunities. The initiative, which presents a better, more tangible concept of Ireland's regions to potential consumers abroad, has been well received by the industry.
Other Fáilte Ireland key initiatives include:
The new Local Area Marketing Fund to support the industry in generating additional business in 2006 and 2007.
An investment of €4m by Fáilte Ireland to sustain the recent remarkable growth in the home market.
Activities and attractions — things to do and see — are central to increasing visitor spend and it is especially important for rural areas to configure their accommodation and activity offering to appeal to Irish and overseas tourists. I welcome, in particular, recent initiatives taken by the bed and breakfast sector in this area. Over the past three years, Fáilte Ireland, under its ERDF co-funded Tourism Product Development Scheme, has allocated over €45m to support 70 capital projects across the country. It will continue to assist in product development including, for example, looped walks, angling, festivals, cycling routes, equestrian, golfing and water based activities, and to support, through its €1m innovation fund, industry groups seeking to develop and market new tourism initiatives.
15 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the commencement date for construction of the National Conference Centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40882/06]
25 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the situation regarding the development of a National Conference Centre on Spencer Dock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40828/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 25 together.
As I have informed the House, most recently on 26 October last, Spencer Dock International Conference Centre Consortium has been appointed Preferred Tenderer for the provision of a National Conference Centre in Dublin.
As the Deputies are aware, the Centre is being procured under a Public Private Partnership process under the auspices of the Office of Public Works — the Contracting Authority. During the Preferred Tenderer phase the Consortium is required to develop and provide the full range of project documents for review and approval by the Contracting Authority. The current expectation is that the contract will, subject to Government agreement, be awarded before the end of December. It is envisaged that site enabling and related works in preparation for construction would commence shortly thereafter and that the Centre would be operational in 2009.
I am delighted that delivery of another major commitment in the Programme for Government is now in sight, subject, as already indicated, to final agreement of the Government.
On the basis of consultations undertaken earlier by my Department and research reviewed, I am totally convinced of the need for a modern, dedicated National Conference Centre if Ireland is to realise its full potential in the hugely valuable international conference market. According to a number of independent estimates, the National Conference Centre, when fully operational, is expected to generate additional foreign revenue earnings of between €25m and €50m per year.
17 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the reason, having included Northern Ireland as part of the development of Horse Sport Ireland, Northern Ireland has been dropped as a participant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40903/06]
21 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the increase in funding, apart from that funding normally made available to the organisations involved, to be provided for the development and maintenance of Horse Sport Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40902/06]
38 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the details of the €1.75 million Government funding for Horse Sport Ireland the national governing body for equestrian sport; the prospects for equestrian sport here arising from the development of this body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40816/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 17, 21 and 38 together.
On 20th November 2006, following consultation with my colleague, Ms Mary Coughlan TD, the Minister for Agriculture and Food, I announced the establishment of a new Agency — Horse Sport Ireland — which will be responsible for devising and implementing strategies for the development and promotion of an internationally competitive Irish sport horse industry for the breeding, sport and leisure sides.
Horse Sport Ireland has been established following the acceptance by myself and the Minister for Agriculture and Food of proposals contained in a report prepared by Mr. Michael Dowling, former Secretary General of the Department of Agriculture and Food, which recommended new governance structures for horse sport in Ireland. Mr. Dowling consulted extensively with the main sectoral interests, including the Equestrian Federation of Ireland, the Irish Horse Board, the Irish Sports Council, my own Department and the Department of Agriculture and Food in the course of his work. There is widespread support across the sector for these structures which involved the appointment of a Board of Directors comprising of eighteen members. In accordance with the Dowling Report, I have designated an independent Chairman, Mr Joe Walsh TD, in consultation with the Minister for Agriculture and Food. The other seventeen members of the Board have been nominated by their respective organisations.
The Agency will initially be established as a company limited by guarantee under the Companies Acts. It will bring within its remit the functions currently being discharged by the Horse Board. Among the first tasks of the Board will be to draw up a statement of strategy for Horse Sport Ireland and to oversee the appointment of a Chief Executive.
Discussions are continuing with sectoral interests in Northern Ireland with a view to their possible participation in the Horse Sport Ireland structures. There is widespread agreement that Horse Sport Ireland should be an all island body. Most of the organisations affiliated to the Equestrian Federation of Ireland cover the whole island. The Horse Board does not but it has effective working links with the Northern Ireland Horse Board. In this new context those links will be strengthened and formalised with a view ultimately to having a single Horse Board.
There is ongoing cooperation and discussion between my Department and the relevant Departments in Northern Ireland regarding a number of common issues and all-island cooperation. Officials from my Department will continue to explore these issues with their Northern Ireland counterparts including in relation to Horse Sport Ireland.
The Dowling report indicated that an additional €1.75m would be required from the Government for Horse Sport Ireland in 2007. I am pleased that this additional funding was provided in the recently published 2007 Estimates.
I am confident that Horse Sport Ireland will significantly strengthen the horse sport sector, bringing a new common purpose to future development and lead to greater organisational efficiencies which will ultimately enhance Ireland's high standing in sport.
18 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the likelihood of increased funding for arts organisations in Budget 2007; if the Arts Council have sought a specific amount for 2007; the likelihood of this being achieved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40825/06]
As the Deputy will appreciate I am not in a position to comment on the forthcoming Budget until after its publication.
Since becoming Minister for Arts, Sport & Tourism in 2002, I have consistently and effectively made the case, in the context of annual Estimates discussions, for increased funding for the Arts and the results are clearly in evidence. I am delighted to have secured funding of €80m for the Arts Council in 2007. This meets the Council's bid for funding for next year.
Total funding for the Council has increased from €66.233m in 2005 to €80m in 2007 and further demonstrates this Government's commitment to the Arts Sector.
Since 2002 funding for the Arts Council has increased by over 67% from €47.67m in 2002, to €80m in 2007. This has allowed the Arts Council to support a record number of artists and arts organisations around the country. These are significant amounts of money in any context and have transformed and increased access to the arts in recent years, and provide an excellent platform for even further developments in the years ahead.
19 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if all of the recommendations of the Murphy Report published in 1998 on the incidence of child abuse in Irish swimming that required Government action have been implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40900/06]
The only recommendation in the 1998 Murphy Report of direct relevance to my Department concerned the issue of funding. The Report recommended that increased public funding be allocated through the Irish Sports Council, which is the statutory body responsible for the development of sport, to Swim Ireland for necessary reorganisation and training. Since 1999, Swim Ireland has received over €3.6 million in funding from the Irish Sports Council, with grants of €804,500 in 2006.
A number of other recommendations related to the Departments of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Health and Children, Justice Equality and Law Reform, and Education and Science and these recommendations were brought to the attention of those Departments for their information.
The Irish Sports Council is satisfied that Swim Ireland has been restructured and refocused in accordance with the recommendations of the Murphy Report. Since the publication of the Report in 1998, further changes have taken place in best practice and legislation on child welfare by the Department of Health and Children together with reviews and updates to the Irish Sports Council's Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children's Sport.
The Irish Sports Council has confirmed that Swim Ireland is in compliance with the provisions of the Council's Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children's Sport in Ireland.
20 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his attention has been drawn to the fact that in Horse Racing Ireland the integrity services are retained by the Turf Club; his views on a similar role for the Equestrian Federation which has preserved and protected the integrity of Ireland’s equestrian sport since its foundation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40887/06]
On 20th November 2006, following consultation with my colleague, Ms Mary Coughlan TD, the Minister for Agriculture and Food, I announced the establishment of a new Agency, Horse Sport Ireland, which will act as the Governing Body for the Irish sport horse industry and represent the industry and sport internationally.
Horse Sport Ireland will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies for the development and promotion of an internationally competitive Irish sport horse industry for the breeding, sport and leisure sides, including quality improvement, education and training, market development, welfare and high performance — and based as far as possible on Irish bred horses.
During 2007 responsibility for the integrity services for equestrian sports will pass from the Equestrian Federation of Ireland to Horse Sport Ireland as the governing body for equestrian sport in consultation with the Irish Sports Council which has the statutory responsibility for the implementation of an anti-doping in sport programme.
I am confident that Horse Sport Ireland will significantly strengthen the horse sport sector, bringing a new common purpose to future development and lead to greater organisational efficiencies which will ultimately enhance Ireland's high standing in sport.
26 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the latest position in regard to the development of the new Abbey Theatre; the situation regarding the international competition for the design of the new theatre; when this will be complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40827/06]
41 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the publication of the design competition for the new Abbey Theatre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40883/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 26 and 41 together.
In July 2006, the Government approved arrangements for the redevelopment of the Abbey Theatre at George's Dock on a Build, Finance, and Maintain (BFM) basis. It also approved the holding of an international design competition for the new Abbey Theatre. Once a winning design has been selected the building will be procured by means of a Build/Finance/Maintain (BFM) Public Private Partnership.
The OPW are at an advanced stage in drawing up the technical specifications for the design competition. A jury is being set up to select the winning design. The jury will have representatives from the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, the OPW, the Dublin Docklands Development Authority, the Arts Council and the Abbey. It is hoped that a suitable design will be available by summer 2007. Once the design has been selected a competition will then be held to procure the contract for the PPP. A construction phase of approximately 18-24 months is envisaged once the PPP contract has been signed.
27 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on the announcement that Dublin Waterworld Ltd is to hand over possession of the National Aquatic Centre to Campus Stadium Ireland Development Ltd; the future plans for the management of the facility; if he will conduct an investigation into the financial arrangements surrounding the development and management of the centre to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40822/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Priority Question No. 3 given by me in the House today.
28 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the outline, brief and schedule of requirements for the new building to be constructed for the National Archives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40744/06]
The brief for a new building for the National Archives of Ireland commissioned by the OPW in 2003, and prepared in consultation with the National Archives, estimates the site area required to be 4,775 square metres and the total floor area required to be just over 20,500 square metres. Broken down by major functions, and rounding areas to the nearest 250 m2, the requirements specified are for 12,000 m2 for Archives storage; 3,000 m2 for staff areas and technical services; 1,500 m2 for Public areas and 4,000 m2 for Plant, circulation and related matters (Total 20,500 square metres).
The new premises must accommodate the archives stored in those buildings and must enable the National Archives to accept transfers of Departmental records in accordance with the National Archives Act and must also accommodate the public and technical services of the National Archives, and its staff.
29 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on whether funding for the Arts Council in the Estimates 2007 falls far short of the total demand for grant aid for bursaries, awards, projects and schemes in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40879/06]
I refer the Deputy to my answer earlier to Priority Question No. 4.
30 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the projects that have been funded under the Access scheme each year since 2001 to date in 2006 by county; if his Department has undertaken to examine the geographic distribution of arts facilities here in a similar manner to the way in which the locations of sporting facilities are being analysed; if so, the stage this analysis is at; if not, if it is intended to carry out such an exercise in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40745/06]
The main vehicle for capital funding through my Department is the Arts & Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme (ACCESS), under which almost €43 million was provided for some 40 arts and cultural facilities around the country. This scheme commenced in 2001 but many projects are still in the course of completion. The increase in the availability of facilities and the enhancement of their quality, as a result of the scheme, has greatly improved access to and participation in the arts for a great many people all around the country.
In addition to ACCESS, almost €53m has been awarded to Other Capital Projects in 2004, 2005 and 2006. These projects, while not formally part of the ACCESS scheme, are managed in the same way as the ACCESS projects and the same objectives apply.
I propose to circulate for inclusion in the written report a schedule detailing allocations on a county-by-county basis in tabular format. All available funds are fully allocated as of now. However, a second round of the very successful ACCESS programme closed for applications on November 17th. The selection of projects will be undertaken in close collaboration with the Arts Council. An independent Selection Committee will assess project proposals received and will make recommendations to me for consideration. I hope, however, to be in a position to announce the successful applicants early next year.
There are no plans to carry out an analysis of the geographical distribution of arts facilities across the country. However, applications for capital arts grants under the ACCESS II scheme must be compatible with the National Spatial Strategy and in the case of new buildings the promoters must demonstrate a proven need for the facility within the relevant area. They must also show that they have assessed the impact on other similar facilities within the relevant catchment area.
|
County |
Total Allocation |
|
€ |
|
|
Mayo |
1,060,231 |
|
Louth |
2,539,476 |
|
Limerick |
1,046,265 |
|
Clare |
4,059,353 |
|
Sligo |
2,920,398 |
|
Monaghan |
663,737 |
|
Cork |
1,276,077 |
|
Leitrim |
3,174,345 |
|
Kerry |
1,000,731 |
|
Kilkenny |
704,705 |
|
Waterford |
825,330 |
|
Meath |
3,021,977 |
|
Dublin |
6,146,532 |
|
Tipperary |
2,920,398 |
|
Wicklow |
1,777,633 |
|
Galway |
3,174,345 |
|
Wexford |
421,553 |
|
Westmeath |
215,855 |
|
Carlow |
3,174,345 |
|
Donegal |
2,634,706 |
|
Total Allocations |
42,757,992 |
|
County |
Total Allocation |
|
€ |
|
|
Cork |
20,000 |
|
Dublin |
64,388 |
|
Kerry |
1,171,185 |
|
Roscommon |
22,000 |
|
Total Allocations |
1,277,573 |
|
County |
Total Allocation |
|
€ |
|
|
Tipperary |
1,847,657 |
|
Limerick |
420,000 |
|
Waterford |
140,000 |
|
Cork |
30,000 |
|
Dublin |
4,030,968 |
|
Kerry |
2,070,000 |
|
Wexford |
26,495,000 |
|
Total Allocations |
35,033,625 |
|
County |
Total Allocation |
|
€ |
|
|
Nationwide |
3,185,000 |
|
Dublin |
9,707,000 |
|
Limerick |
1,475,000 |
|
Cork |
710,000 |
|
Sligo |
200,000 |
|
Kerry |
686,000 |
|
Galway |
150,000 |
|
Waterford |
305,000 |
|
Laois |
140,000 |
|
Westmeath |
80,000 |
|
Kildare |
19,000 |
|
Total |
16,657,000 |
31 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he is satisfied regarding the economic impact of hosting the Ryder Cup; if the anticipated numbers of visitors travelled here for the Ryder Cup; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40885/06]
40 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if a cost benefit analysis has been carried out on the hosting of the Ryder Cup; when it will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40884/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 40 together.
As I informed the House on 26 October, last, Fáilte Ireland, in conjunction with the PGA/European Tour, have commissioned Deloitte and Touche to conduct an economic impact assessment on the Ryder Cup in Ireland and I look forward to the results of their work, which are expected early in 2007.
In the meantime, the success of Ryder Cup 2006, in terms of organisation and the presentation of a positive image of Ireland, has been widely acclaimed. Based on the experience of past tournaments, it has been estimated that the economic benefits of the event to Ireland are of the order of €130m. It is expected that, over the coming years, there will also be a lasting long-term benefit to the tourism industry, and the golf tourism sector in particular, as a result of the worldwide television coverage of the event and the raising of Ireland's profile generally. Furthermore, the positive experiences of overseas visitors to the event will serve as a valuable source of word-of-mouth marketing for our tourism industry for many years to come.
While figures for visitors travelling here specifically for the Ryder Cup are not available, CSO figures show that Ireland hosted 738,400 overseas visitors in September. This is an increase of 14% on the corresponding month in 2005. The number of visitors from North America alone increased by over 19% on September 2005.
33 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has decided on the new management and operation arrangements for the National Aquatic Centre following the recent Supreme Court case; if an immediate examination of the structure of the building will be carried by an independent expert; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40876/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Priority Question No. 3 given by me in the House today.
35 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of money that will be allocated by his Department towards the development of Sports Campus Ireland in 2007; the way this money will be spent; the latest timetable available for the development of sports facilities on this site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40821/06]
In November 2005, the Government gave its assent to the commencement of Phase One of the development of the National Sports Campus at Abbotstown. The estimated overall cost of the Phase One development is €119m and development is scheduled to take place over a 4 to 5 year period. Funds for the delivery of the project have been provided in my Department's capital envelope for 2006-2010. I am satisfied that I will have ample funds in my Vote to meet both the current and capital needs of the Campus project in 2007.
Phase One of the Development Control Plan will provide:
a National Field Sports training centre, catering for rugby, soccer, Gaelic games and hockey;
a National Indoor Training Centre which will provide world class training facilities for over 30 Governing Bodies of Sport;
accommodation for sports men and women; sports science/ medical facilities;
all-weather synthetic pitches for community use; and
renovation of existing buildings to cater for needs identified by sports bodies.
The Fingal County Development Plan for the Abbotstown area requires that a study is undertaken to determine a suitable mix of sporting and appropriate commercial, leisure, and amenity uses to create a vibrant and sustainable sports campus and assess the possibility of opening up park lands for the residents of the Blanchardstown Area. In this regard, an inter-agency group is currently at work; it is chaired by the Office of Public Works and includes my Department. The Planning Study is currently underway and is expected to be completed before the end of the year. When agreed it will act as a blue-print for the planning process for each facility to be provided at Abbotstown over the next four years. In the meantime, planning and preparatory work for this project has commenced and work is already underway on the refurbishment of the State Laboratory as the new headquarters for FAI Ireland.
36 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the measures he is taking to tackle the problem of obesity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40874/06]
The Government recognises that investment in sport can yield very tangible returns in improved fitness and health for individuals which can help combat obesity and result in a consequent reduction in the demand on health services. The unprecedented Government investment of €900m in sport since 1997 has enabled the development of modern well equipped and well managed sporting facilities throughout the country supported by a wide range of programmes which are having a real benefit to our communities. The recently published Abridged Estimates of Public Expenditure for 2007 provides for a total budget of over €316 million for sport, an increase of 30% over 2006.
The 2007 budget for the Irish Sports Council (ISC) has increased by 20% or over €8 million to more than €49 million. This continued increased level of funding ensures that the ISC can continue to embark on initiatives and programmes which increase participation in sport and physical recreation by people of all ages in the country.
Under the ISC's latest strategy "Building Sport for Life" 2006-2008, the Council will focus its efforts on increasing the number of people participating in sport and physical activity and its stated objectives include:
Increase the number of people participating in sport in partnership with governing bodies of sport, sports partnerships and other relevant agencies. The target is to increase adult participation rates by 1.5% over the life of the strategy. This increase will be sub-divided as follows- a reduction of 1.5% in the number of totally inactive adults and an increase of 1.5% in the number of adults meeting the recommended minimum level of health-enhancing physical activity (30 minutes per day x 5 weekly)
Increase by 3% in the number of children taking part in some level of extra curricular sport and extra school sport combined
The Local Sports Partnerships are charged with increasing participation and ensuring that the experiences in sport are positive.
The ISC has created a new Participation Unit to implement its plans for increasing participation. The Unit will ensure the national rollout of the Local Sports Partnerships network in order to deliver greater access to sport for all. It will work with specific national governing bodies to deliver large-scale participation programmes. The Unit will target sections of the community for intervention programmes such as the existing Women in Sport and Sport for Older People initiatives.
The Council will facilitate the creation of a sustainable structure to ensure the strategic development of sport by providing resources to National Governing Bodies and Local Sports Partnerships who are charged with providing evidence of increased levels of participation across a range of sports. It will strengthen its relationship with the National Coaching and Training Centre in order to encourage governing bodies and sports partnerships to develop coaching infrastructures nationally and locally.
The Buntús Programme is also continuing to be rolled out by the ISC through the Local Sports Partnership network to primary schools. The Programme aims to support the primary PE curriculum by providing equipment, resource cards and training to teachers and allows teachers and introductory level coaches introduce sport to children in a safe and fun way. A new initiative "Buntús Start" aimed at pre-school children is also being implemented by the Sports Council.
With regard to the provision of quality sports and recreational facilities throughout the country, the total 2007 capital budget for grants for sports facilities, including swimming pools, will be almost €88 million. This will be used to meet payments in respect of commitments already made as well as those to be made in 2007 under the Sports Capital and Local Authority Swimming Pool Programmes.
Between 1998 and 2006, a total of €472m has been allocated to over 5,755 projects throughout the country under the Sport Capital Programme. Under the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme 23 swimming pool projects have been completed since 2000 and a further 15 are currently under construction at locations throughout the country. The Deputy will be aware that the task force on obesity established by the Department of Health and Children and which published its report in May 2005 was chaired by Mr. John Treacy, Chief Executive of the Irish Sports Council.
I am satisfied that the programmes provided by the Irish Sports Council to increase participation together with the improved sporting facilities now in place throughout the country as a result of Government investment are providing real solutions to the problem of obesity.
37 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the latest position in regard to Government funding for intercounty GAA footballers and hurlers; if the Government will make money available for the purpose of player welfare; the way this money will be administered and distributed; the amount that will be made available; when this is expected to happen; if he has met with the GAA and the Gaelic Players Association to discuss the matter; the outcome of such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40817/06]
I have had a number of meetings with both the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) and the GAA, most recently last month, at which player welfare issues for inter-county players were discussed.
At these meetings and in subsequent letters to both the GPA and the GAA, I have set out the position of the Government on this issue. Firstly, it is entirely a matter for the GAA, as the Governing Body for Gaelic Games, to determine whether or not it wishes to embrace professionalism in any form. The Government has no wish to influence this decision in any way. However, the Government for reasons of sporting policy and priorities is not prepared to make public funds available to finance "pay for play". The Government commends the shared aspiration of both the GAA and the GPA to address player welfare concerns in a spirit of generosity and mutual respect and recent comments by the President of the GAA reaffirm his resolve to deal with the matter.
It is a matter for the GAA in the first instance to determine how it will meet the cost of addressing player welfare needs. I have already indicated to the GAA and the GPA that I would be prepared to respond positively to a request from the GAA for assistance in managing the additional financial impacts on the Association of the cost of enhanced player welfare services. In that regard, I have suggested that one approach might be for the Government to commit to a programme of investment in the provision of appropriate training facilities for county teams — which the GAA has acknowledged to be a particular priority. The parameters for such a scheme are clear cut — enhanced investment under the Sports Capital Programme over a period of years but there may also be other options worthy of consideration. However, it would be premature to lock into a particular financing mechanism at this stage until agreement has been reached between the GAA and the GPA on arrangements to enhance player welfare and the additional costs arising for the GAA have been established. I hope that the negotiations currently underway between the GAA and the GPA will reach a successful conclusion.
39 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the efforts he is making to promote water sports here and to encourage the holding of competitive water sports and international events at the National Aquatic Centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40823/06]
The Irish Sports Council was set up as a statutory body in July 1999 with responsibility for the development of sport, increasing participation at all levels and raising standards. The Sports Council provides funding to recognised National Governing Bodies (NGBs) including Swim Ireland, the national governing body for swimming and associated aquatic sports.
Since 1999, Swim Ireland has received over €3.6 million in funding from the Irish Sports Council, with grants of €804,500 in 2006. Of the money allocated to Swim Ireland in 2006, core funding of €463,500 was given to fund the delivery of its strategy in the areas of swimming, water polo and diving; €255,000 was targeted at high performance; and €86,000 was paid under the International Carding Scheme, which provides direct support in terms of grant-aid and indirect support in terms of sport science and medical backup to elite and top aspiring athletes. In addition to this funding, Swim Ireland has also received €141,000 since 2005 under the Women in Sport initiative.
Under the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, my Department provides grant aid to local authorities towards the capital costs of a new or replacement public swimming pool or the refurbishment of an existing pool. The programme provides for a maximum grant level of 80% of eligible costs (90% in the case of disadvantaged areas), subject to a maximum of €3.8 million. Where a project is being undertaken by an organisation other than a local authority, the proposal must be considered, supported and submitted by the local authority.
The priority under the current round of this Programme is to continue to support those projects remaining to be completed. Of the 57 projects being dealt with, 23 projects have been completed, with a further 15 under construction or about to begin construction throughout the country. The total investment in these 38 projects is over €307 million and my Department is providing grant aid of some €128 million. The remaining 19 projects are at various stages in the programme — 5 at tender stage, 8 at contract document stage and 6 at preliminary report stage. My Department is currently finalising an expenditure review of this programme. On completion of this review, the question of re-opening the programme can be considered. If the Pool Programme is re-opened, it will be open to all local authorities to submit applications under the terms that will apply.
As regards the National Aquatic Centre, it is the first facility to be developed at the Campus of Sports Facilities at Abbotstown and was opened in 2003. In addition to public access to the facilities, an arrangement is in place whereby some 1,300 hours of free usage of the Centre is provided to Swim Ireland and its affiliates for the training needs of our elite swimmers, and whereby access is given to many local groups through programmes organised by the Fingal Sports Partnership.
The National Aquatic Centre is a world-class facility which has successfully hosted a number of competitive and international events including the swimming events of the 2003 Special Olympics World Summer Games in June 2003; and the European Short Course Swimming Championships in December 2003 and I would hope that other major events are held there in the future. The latter event, received support of €350,000 under Fáilte Ireland's International Sports Tourism Initiative. It is primarily a matter for Swim Ireland as the governing body for the sport of swimming to decide on the locations for its national and international events.
42 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the concerns expressed by the European Commission to the effect that national Governments would investigate the means whereby the use of the internet by persons involved in child pornography should be restricted by electronic means, through the statutory or regulatory system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41036/06]
Combating illegal, harmful and predatory use of the Internet requires responses at national, EU and international levels. Ireland is fully committed to playing its part, at home and internationally, to both detect and prevent child pornography. Ireland's Child Trafficking and Pornography Act (1998) is acknowledged as one of the most robust pieces of legislation anywhere. In terms of enforcement, in Ireland, as well as in most jurisdictions, what is illegal off-line is considered illegal on-line.
On the structural side, a system of self-regulation by the Internet Service Provider industry is in place, the components of which include:
an Internet Advisory Board (IAB) which promotes awareness of Internet downside issues and monitors the progress of self regulation by the Internet Service Provider industry;
a public hotline for reporting child pornography; and
an industry Code of Practice and Ethics setting out the duties and responsibilities of each Internet service provider.
The Internet Advisory Board was established in February 2000. As well as overseeing a self-regulatory regime for the Irish Internet Service Providers, it encourages best practice procedures, provides advice and facilitates research in internet-related issues including child safety. My Department provides secretarial and other supports for the Board's work.
The IAB in its role of encouraging best practice procedures and formulating advice on Internet downside issues is currently evaluating the use of electronic technology which can be used to block access to websites on the internet and is preparing a report on this matter.
The Deputy may also be aware that the Hotline (www.hotline.ie) referred to above accepts and investigates reports from the public in relation to child pornography and other illegal material on the Internet. Special protocols operate between the Garda and the Hotline which maximise co-operation on law enforcement issues so that offences in the area of child pornography can be detected and prosecuted.
The Hotline works closely with, and is a founding member of the international INHOPE Association (www.inhope.org) a network of European hotlines which is expanding to all parts of the world. The INHOPE Association develops procedures and shares information on the best practices for the tracing and tracking of illegal child pornography.
The self-regulatory approach to Internet regulation is the norm at EU level and indeed world-wide. The Internet Advisory Board helps and supports the Irish Internet Service Provider industry to deliver an effective self-regulation environment, in accordance with a Code of Practice and Ethics for the industry, agreed with the Board in February 2002. The Irish Code of Practice and Ethics is recognised throughout Europe as a model of its type.
The Deputy may also be aware that the European Union has taken a strong line on combating child pornography and other illegal and harmful uses of the Internet. Since 1999, under the Safer Internet Action Plan, the EU has provided financial and other supports for measures in the member states to combat illegal and harmful uses of the Internet, with particular emphasis on protecting children. A new EU action plan — Safer Internet Plus — covering the period 2005 to 2008, and with a budget of €45m, was agreed under the Irish presidency in June 2004 and is now in operation. My Department is represented on the management committee for the programme.
The EU Council adopted a Framework Decision on Combating the Sexual Exploitation of Children and Child Pornography on 22 December 2003. While the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act 1998 is a particularly robust legislative measure, my Department is preparing additional legislative provisions to ensure compliance with this Framework Decision.
In July, 2006 the Government gave approval for drafting of a Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, 2006 which includes a number of provisions aimed at introducing certain changes and improvements in the operation of the Criminal Justice system. It is expected that drafting of the Bill in question will be completed early in 2007. The Bill will also give legislative effect to a number of international instruments including the Council of Europe's Convention on Cybercrime which is the first international treaty dealing with criminal offences by means of, or against, computer networks, in particular distribution of child pornography, computer related fraud, network security and infringement of copyright. The aim of the Convention is to pursue a common criminal approach aimed at the protection of society against cybercrime.
43 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be reached on a visa application for persons (details supplied); and if it will be possible to issue a decision in time to allow the persons involved to make the necessary arrangements to join their parents here for Christmas 2006. [40911/06]
The applications referred to by the Deputy were received in the Dublin Visa Office on 10 November, 2006. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the applications in question were approved on 20 November, 2006.
44 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the lengthy delay in arranging hearings in respect of criminal injury compensation as in a case of a person (details supplied); and the obstacles to more timely processing of claims. [40912/06]
As the Deputy may be aware, under the terms of the Scheme of Compensation for Personal Injuries Criminally Inflicted, the Tribunal is entirely independent in the administration of the Scheme and I have no role in the scheduling of appeal hearings for applicants who are not satisfied with the decision on their application. In relation to the application referred to by the Deputy, the Tribunal considers that there was no undue delay in arranging a hearing date in this instance. I am informed by the Tribunal that the documentation required in connection with the appeal was not received in full until March 2006. I am further informed that a hearing date of 17 November 2006 was offered to the applicant's solicitor, by telephone call on 20 October 2006 and in writing on 25 October 2006 but that this date was refused by the applicant's solicitor on the grounds that it was unsuitable. At this stage, the Tribunal is not in a position to make available an alternative hearing date before the end of the year but has assured me that a new hearing date for the applicant will be arranged early in 2007.
45 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in communicating a decision not to grant a certificate of naturalisation, the reason for refusal is given; and if not, the reason applicants are advised that they may reapply and in so doing should give due regard to the reason for refusal. [40929/06]
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended provides that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation if he is satisfied that certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. These conditions include having a period of residence in the State and being of good character. When an application for naturalisation is received, it is examined immediately to determine if the applicant meets the statutory residence criteria. If the applicant does not meet the residency requirements s/he is informed accordingly and advised of his/her right to re-apply for the grant of a certificate of naturalisation at a later date. If the applicant has the necessary residence in the State, the application will then be considered in accordance with the other statutory requirements.
In the course of processing the application, enquiries regarding the individual's financial background, including their social welfare and taxation histories will be made. In addition, enquiries are made with the Garda Síochána in relation to the applicants background to establish if he or she can be considered to be of good character. Any other enquiries deemed necessary will also be made in advance of submitting the case to me for a decision. The applicant will then be informed in writing of my decision. S/he will also be provided with a copy of the submission prepared by my official's which summarises the information available to me at the decision-making stage. It is a matter for the applicant, having regard to the information contained in the submission, to consider the merits of lodging a fresh application.
46 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a person (details supplied) has not been granted a holiday visa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40930/06]
The application referred to by the Deputy was received in the Moscow Visa Office on 6 October, 2006. The decision of the Visa Officer to refuse the application was taken on 31 October 2006. The application was refused because the Visa Officer could not be satisfied, on the basis of the documentation supplied, that the applicant had demonstrated sufficient economic or professional ties to compel her to return home following her visit. In addition, it was considered that the visit was not short term in nature. It is open to the applicant to appeal this decision; however to date, no appeal has been received. Appeals must be received within two months of the decision to refuse the application.
47 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the case of a person (details supplied) who has made an application to his Department; the position of this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40943/06]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 6 February 2004 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner. The person concerned was informed by letter dated 8 April 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of her and afforded her three options in accordance with Section 3(3)(b)(ii) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, namely to leave the State voluntarily, to consent to the making of a deportation order or to submit, within 15 working days, representations to the Minister, in writing, setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Her case was examined under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 on the Prohibition of Refoulement. On 3 August 2004, I refused temporary leave to remain in the State and signed a deportation order in respect of her. Notice of this order was served by registered post requiring her to present herself to the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, on 14 October 2004, in order to make travel arrangements for her deportation from the State. The person concerned failed to present herself as required and was classified as evading her deportation. The effect of the deportation order is that the person concerned must leave the State and remain thereafter outside the State.
On 17 December 2004, the person concerned presented herself at my Department's Offices in Burgh Quay pursuant to an appointment to voluntarily return to her country of origin. It should be noted that the option to voluntarily return to one's country of origin is provided, as previously stated, in the notice of intention to deport letter which issues pursuant to Section 3(3)(b)(ii) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended. However this option ceases once a deportation order has been signed by me. The deportation order in this case was enforced by the GNIB on 23 December 2004. Correspondence was recently received from this person and is under consideration by my officials.
48 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 2; if he will review all of the circumstances and satisfy himself that the marriage is genuine, that the decision to refuse a visa was unreasonable and will issue the spouse a visa without delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40982/06]
Following a review of the case I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the application in question was approved on 29 November, 2006. The applicant will be contacted shortly by the Visa Office in Beijing and advised of the decision.
49 Mr. O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will take action to ensure that Tallaght is included in his Department’s plans for a closed circuit television scheme; his views on the particular needs of Tallaght in that regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40984/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that Tallaght is one of the 17 areas which form part of the Garda CCTV Programme, as follows (listed alphabetically): Athlone, Ballyfermot, Carlow, Castlebar, Clondalkin, Clonmel, Drogheda, Dungarvan, Ennis, Kilkenny, Kinsale, Mullingar, Portlaoise, Sligo, Tallaght, Tullamore and Waterford.
Garda Management and my Department are currently in consultation with the Department of Finance with a view to proceeding as quickly as possible with the procurement process to contract outsourced service providers for the development, installation and management of these CCTV systems, including Tallaght. This will be the subject of a peer review process organised by the Department of Finance. Following the successful conclusion of this review it is intended to issue the Request for Tender. It is anticipated that this contract will be placed in 2007.
The Garda authorities are currently evaluating tenders for the installation of three Garda CCTV Systems in Ballyfermot, Clondalkin and Tullamore. These three towns were chosen as representative of the average size of a Garda Síochána CCTV system, containing a good cross-section of the type of urban area in which Garda CCTV is typically deployed. 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 by the Garda Commissioner as part of the process of outsourcing Garda CCTV systems. Tallaght will be considered together with the remainder of the Garda CCTV Programme.
50 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm that no divorce has been granted to a person (details supplied) living outside the EU under Irish law and that the person does not have full custody to their children under Irish law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40986/06]
As the Deputy will appreciate, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, it is a function of the Courts Service to provide appropriate information on the courts to the public. I have therefore arranged to have the query referred to the Courts Service for direct reply to the Deputy.
51 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an upper age limit applies regarding eligibility for jury service; if so, the reason for the age limit; his plans to remove same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40993/06]
Under the law as it stands in the Juries Act 1976, every citizen aged 18 years or upwards and under the age of 70 years is qualified and liable to serve as a juror. Persons excusable from jury service as of right include those aged 65 years or upwards and under the age of 70 years. Prior to the Act of 1976 the upper age was 65 years. While I have no proposals for change in this area, I can say that its operation continues to be kept under review.
52 Mr. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department can assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9 to avail of a professional development internship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41005/06]
I understand the Immigration Division of my Department has recently been in correspondence with the person concerned. Upon receipt of the documentation requested, a decision will be made on the application.
53 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41043/06]
I would refer the Deputy to the Reply I gave to his Dáil Question No. 86 of Thursday 26 October 2006. The status of the person concerned remains as set out in that reply.
54 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 83 of 26 October 2006 and his reference therein to Parliamentary Question No. 187 of 1 June 2006, the time by which he expects the examination process in the procedures to be concluded for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41044/06]
I refer the Deputy to my replies to Parliamentary Question No. 187 of 1 June 2006 and Parliamentary Question No. 83 of 26 October 2006 in relation to the person concerned. The position remains as outlined in my reply of 1 June 2006, that is, I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course. The Deputy will appreciate that there is a large volume of files in the system and my officials are processing them as efficiently as possible.
55 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to the application for reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41045/06]
The person in question made an application for Family Reunification under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996 on behalf of his wife in May 2006. I have been informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner submitted a report on the investigation to my Department in November 2006. Further clarification is being sought in connection with this case. On receipt of a response a decision will be made on the application.
56 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will give favourable consideration to the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41046/06]
I wish to advise the Deputy that the case of the person concerned falls under the terms of the Dublin II Regulation, Council Regulation (EC) No. 343/2003. This Regulation is intended to prevent the phenomenon of "asylum shopping" across Europe and sets out criteria for determining which Member State is responsible for examining an asylum application where applications have been lodged in more than one Member State or whereby an asylum seeker has been granted a visa to enter another regulation state. At the same time, it guarantees applicants that one State will process their application, thereby preventing the creation of ‘refugees in orbit', a situation which had previously pertained in Europe. Under the Dublin II Regulation, the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner, (ORAC), can, on the basis of relevant criteria, request another State to accept responsibility for an asylum application and have it processed in that other state.
The person concerned lodged an asylum claim in this State on 09 October, 2006. Following investigation it was established that the person had previously made an asylum application in Belgium. It was therefore determined by the ORAC that, pursuant to the provisions of the Dublin II Regulation, Belgium was the appropriate State to process the application as the person concerned had previously lodged an asylum claim there on 18 February, 2005, and the appropriate authorities in Belgium have accepted their responsibilities accordingly. The ORAC informed the person concerned of their determination on 21 November 2006, whilst at the same time affording her an opportunity to appeal their determination to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
In relation to appeals under the Dublin II Regulation, I must point out to the Deputy that the making of an appeal to the Tribunal does not, of itself, operate to suspend the transfer of a person's asylum application nor indeed the person themselves. The appeal can be pursued from the receiving country. Of course, if an appeal is successful, arrangements are made to allow the person concerned to re-enter the State and have their asylum application determined substantively by the ORAC.
As a direct consequence of the ORAC determination a Transfer Order was signed in respect of the person concerned on 22 November 2006. This Order was issued to her on 23 November, 2006, requiring her to present herself to the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2 on 29 November, 2006, in order for arrangements to be made for her transfer to Belgium. The person failed to attend and is now deemed to have evaded transfer to Belgium pursuant to the provisions of the Dublin II Regulation, and is therefore illegally present in the State. She should present herself to An Garda Síochána or the Garda National Immigration Bureau without any further delay. The situation in the home country of the person concerned and her need, if any, for international protection are matters for Belgium to consider as part of its examination of her asylum claim.
57 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41047/06]
The person in question applied for permission to remain in the State under the revised arrangements for non-EU national parents of Irish children born prior to 1 January 2005, commonly referred to as the IBC/05 scheme. A letter granting permission to remain in the State for two years was issued on 17 October 2005 . It is noted that the person concerned has registered with the Garda National Immigration Bureau but the address quoted in the details of this question are different to those on the records available to the Department. The person in question should note that she is obliged under immigration legislation to advise the local Registration Officer of any change of address.
58 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will initiate a further investigation into the circumstances in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford whose case appears to warrant consideration notwithstanding his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 99 of 9 November 2006 in view of the fact that inaccuracies exist in the background to the decision to deport or transfer to another EU country having particular regard to Ireland’s international obligations in respect of human rights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41048/06]
I would refer the Deputy to my replies to Question No. 99 of 9 November 2006 and No. 693 of 21 March 2006. The position remains the same as set out therein. The person concerned continues to be illegally present in the State and has not presented herself to the Garda Síochána or the Garda National Immigration Bureau as requested.
59 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Gaeltacht allowances payable to An Garda Síochána; the amounts involved; and the criteria and to whom payable. [41065/06]
An allowance amounting to 7.5% of gross pay is payable to members of An Garda Síochána serving in defined Gaeltacht areas who perform their duties through the medium of Irish and whose knowledge of the language is certified as adequate for that purpose.
I have been informed that when the Gaeltacht allowance was introduced, it was decided that it would only be paid in areas where Irish was the general medium of speech and where all the members of the force were proficient in Irish and were required to perform their duties in Irish. The areas where these allowances were to be paid were determined on the basis of Garda Districts. It was not regarded as practicable to arrange for members of the force in any particular Station to conduct all their duties in Irish if Irish was not also in use at the District Headquarters.
A Garda headquarters circular sets out the conditions for the deployment/payment of the Gaeltacht allowances to Garda personnel serving in the Fíor- and Breac-Ghaeltacht areas in the Divisions of Galway West, Donegal and Kerry. The Garda authorities advise that the term "Fíor" in the concept of Garda usage denotes a Gaeltacht area where Irish is the main vernacular of the local population, whereas the term "Breac" signifies a Gaeltacht area where English is, in the main, the more dominant language of the local population. Garda Management state that in the Fíor-Ghaeltacht, members must have obtained a minimum of 80% in the Oral Irish Proficiency Test. In the Breac-Ghaeltacht members must have obtained a minimum of 70% in the Oral Irish Proficiency Test.
I have been further advised by the Garda authorities that the number of personnel in receipt of the Gaeltacht allowance on the final pay run for each year 2003 to 2005 (inclusive), and as at 30 November 2006, was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Year |
Number |
|
2003 |
336 |
|
2004 |
332 |
|
2005 |
331 |
|
2006 |
344 |
Payments in the amount of €991,108.50 have been made in respect of the Gaeltacht allowance up to 28 November, 2006.
60 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the internal Garda review into the death of a person (details supplied) in County Offaly has been completed; and if he has proposals for an independent examination of the circumstances surrounding the death and the investigation that followed. [41066/06]
At an inquest on 26 April, 2004 on the person referred to by the Deputy, the jury brought in a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence that the cause of death was due to immersion in fresh water. I am informed that as a result of allegations made by the family of the person the Garda authorities examined the investigation file on the death of that person, as a result of which they decided that a Superintendent from outside the Garda District where the death took place would carry out a new investigation. This investigation is now completed, and I have, in the past two days, received a report on it from the Garda authorities.
I am informed that in the second investigation the Garda authorities did not find evidence to substantiate the allegations regarding the cause of death or the conduct of the original investigation. However, that second investigation did find that some aspects of the original investigation could have been carried out more professionally, but that these did not affect the outcome of the investigation. In addition to the second Garda investigation, I understand that the State Pathologist reviewed two medical opinions obtained by the family and the post mortem findings. She did not find anything to cast doubt on the inquest's findings.
I also understand that the second Garda investigation file has been forwarded to the Law Officers and their directions are awaited. It would, therefore, be premature for me to comment further on it at this stage. I am giving further consideration to the recently received Garda report into the matter.
61 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position on the decentralisation programme specifically for County Meath; the timeline on the delivery of jobs to the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41489/06]
The targeted number of posts for Navan, County Meath under my Department's decentralisation programme is 103. This will be made up of posts from the Probation Service, the National Property Services Regulatory Authority, the Garda Civilian HR Unit and the Coroners Agency. I understand that the Office of Public Works is currently looking at property solutions for all these agencies and it is anticipated that the first moves to Navan will begin in the early part of 2007.
62 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Finance the position in the case of a student from the Republic of Ireland with an address in Northern Ireland, who is currently a full time student on placement in Northern Ireland with a Donegal registered car who needs a Northern Ireland registered car on security grounds as part of their placement, as a Donegal registered car would be a target in a particular location in Belfast; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41060/06]
I have been informed by the Revenue Commissioners that vehicle registration legislation does not provide for exemption from registration in the State of cars that are driven by a resident of the State in the circumstances described by the Deputy. While the security issue may well be a concern, any move to relax the position as outlined above is unfortunately open to abuse. However, I would point out that the issue of car taxation and cross-border workers has been revised recently. On foot of a European Court of Justice (ECJ) Judgment, the Revenue Commissioners now allow a State resident, who is employed by an employer established in another Member State, to use a category A vehicle belonging to that employer for private and/or business use in the State.
63 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 260 of 10 October 2006 the status on the sale of the site of Quin Garda Station (details supplied) to a voluntary housing association in the village in order that suitable accommodation may be provided for the community’s elderly people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40916/06]
A request to acquire a plot of land at Quin Garda station has been received from a voluntary housing association within the village. The Commissioners of Public Works are awaiting a response from the Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform and the Garda Authorities in relation to their future requirements at Quin Garda station and the possibility of disposing a plot of land to the housing association.
64 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance his proposals to change the regulations to expand the scope of the disabled drivers scheme; when the inter-Departmental group was set up; when it reported; and if progress has been made in the meantime. [40926/06]
A special Interdepartmental Review Group set up in August 2000, reviewed the operation of the Disabled Drivers Scheme. The terms of reference of the Group were to examine the operation of the existing scheme, including the difficulties experienced by the various groups and individuals involved with it, and to consider the feasibility of alternative schemes, with a view to assisting the Minister for Finance in determining the future direction of the scheme.
The Group's Report, published on my Department's website in July 2004, sets out in detail the genesis and development of the scheme. It examines the current benefits, the qualifying medical criteria, the Exchequer costs, relationship with other schemes and similar schemes in other countries. The Report also makes a number of recommendations, both immediate and long-term, referring respectively to the operation of the appeals process and options for the future development of the scheme.
In respect of the long-term recommendations, including those relating to the qualifying disability criteria, further changes can only be made after careful consideration, given the scale and scope of the scheme. For this reason, the Government decided that the Minister for Finance would consider the recommendations contained in the Report of the Interdepartmental Review Group in the context of the annual budgetary process having regard to the existing and prospective cost of the scheme. This consideration is undertaken on a regular basis.
65 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding an application under the Disabled Drivers and Passenger (Tax Concessions) Regulations for a person (details supplied) in West Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40927/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners, that based on the information supplied, they have been unable to trace any claim by the named person under the Disabled Drivers and the Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Regulations, 1994. It is a fundamental requirement for admission to the scheme that the person with the disability meets the specified medical criteria and is in possession of a Primary Medical Certificate to that effect issued by the appropriate Senior Area Medical Officer who is an official of the local HSE. It may be that the person concerned has applied for and been refused the required certificate. If that is the case this refusal may be appealed to the Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal, an independent body whose decision is final. It is regretted that the Revenue Commissioners are unable to consider an application without the issue of a Primary Medical Certificate. If received, this certificate, together with the completed application form (DD1) should be submitted to the Office of the Revenue Commissioners, Disabled Drivers Section, Coolshannagh, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan, for processing. An information booklet (VRT 7) which outlines the relevant regulations is available on the Revenue Website at www.revenue.ie.
66 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Finance if he will avail of offices available for rent at Newcastle West to facilitate the temporary, promised, decentralisation of Revenue Commissioners Offices to the town. [40939/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that pending completion of the decentralised accommodation in Newcastle West, scheduled for the last quarter of 2007, they have already set up temporary accommodation in Limerick City. The current temporary accommodation is leased to the Commissioners of Public Works under a short term agreement and it would not be practical to enter into a new lease for temporary accommodation in Newcastle West. Limerick was chosen as the site for temporary accommodation to facilitate the training of staff who are already based in Limerick and are due to decentralise to Newcastle West.
67 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare has not received their entitlement to tax rebate; if his Department will have the persons assessment re-assessed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40949/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the Finance Act 2003 introduced a new time limit for claiming such repayments. Where a claim is made on or after 1 January 2005 the overall time limit is reduced to four years. The change to the repayment deadline was announced in the Budget speech in December 2002 and the measure received an amount of publicity at that time. Reminders of the change were advertised by Revenue in the national press in October and November 2004 and there was also considerable media comment about the change around that time.
Consequently in accordance with the provisions of section 865 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 (as amended by section 17 of the Finance Act 2003) the taxpayers claim for repayment of tax is statute barred. The assessments raised on the taxpayer are in accordance with the returns of income submitted by the taxpayer.
68 Mr. English asked the Minister for Finance the position on the decentralisation programme specifically for County Meath; the timeline on the delivery of jobs to the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40955/06]
I am informed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) in relation to their decentralisation of 349 posts to Trim, Co Meath that a preferred tenderer has been selected. A planning application was lodged with Meath County Council and Trim Town Council in late October 2006. Subject to the receipt of satisfactory planning permission, the preferred tenderer will be instructed to prepare working drawings and a bill of quantities with a view to a contract being placed and construction work commencing on site. As published in the Decentralisation Implementation Group Report of September 2006 the indicative date for completion of the building is end 2008.
In October 2006 the Government accepted Revenue's proposal to relocate approximately 100 posts to Navan, Co. Meath as an expansion to their Decentralisation Programme. The Public Appointments Service has amended the Central Applications Facility to include the new Revenue location. This facility became available from 27 November for Revenue staff and will become available for all other applicants from 11 December next, in line with agreed protocols. Formal offers will issue in early January 2007. The OPW are currently in the process of identifying a suitable property solution. Progress on the movement of staff to Navan, Co. Meath is dependent on the availability of suitable accommodation. Subject to this an indicative timeframe for occupation is mid 2007.
69 Mr. English asked the Minister for Finance his views on the current trend in exports and its relevance for macroeconomics policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40967/06]
Provisional data for the first half of 2006 show that the volume of exports in goods and services increased by almost 6% on an annual basis in that period. This compares with an annual increase of 3.9% for 2005 as a whole.
In the medium term, the outlook for Irish export performance remains broadly positive. Our existing strong export base, particularly in pharmaceuticals, food, medical devices, software and financial services, allied with our pro-business environment and skilled workforce, are factors which provide good grounds to expect a continued solid export performance from the Irish economy over the medium term. However, it is important that we remain focused on improving our competitiveness, which has been declining in recent years.
To ensure that our export sector remains strong, the Government is adhering to prudent fiscal and expenditure policies as well as investing in infrastructure, education and skills development. We are undertaking reform of the public sector and are improving the delivery and efficiency of public services.
70 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Finance the statutory processes involved in the appointment of chairs and board members to bodies (details supplied); and the legislative origin of these procedures. [40977/06]
In response to the Deputy's question, Sealúchas Árachais Teoranta is the only body that has a statutory basis for appointment of its two directors in accordance with section 10 of the Insurance (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1985, as amended by the Central Bank and Financial Services of Ireland Act, 2004. The appointment of members to the Committee on Top Level Appointments in the Civil Service (TLAC), the Committee for Performance Awards and the Custom Consultative Committee is not governed by a statutory process.
The membership of TLAC comprises of the Secretary General, Public Service Management and Development, Department of Finance (ex officio), Secretary General to the Government, Department of the Taoiseach (ex officio), a private sector member, appointed for a three year term and two other Secretaries General, appointed for three year terms.
The membership of the Committee for Performance Awards is made up of the Secretary General, Public Services Management and Development, Department of Finance (ex officio), Secretary General to the Government, Department of the Taoiseach (ex officio). The three other members of the committee are drawn from the private sector and are appointed by the Minister for Finance for a four year term.
The Consultative Customs Committee is an informal Consultative forum comprising of representatives of the Revenue Commissioners and relevant trade and business bodies. By convention it is chaired by the Assistant Secretary in the Customs of the Revenue Commissioners. It meets a number of times a year to discuss matters of interest to Revenue and/or the trade and business bodies, including EU matters.
The Economic and Social Research Institute is a company limited by guarantee. My Department plays no legal role in appointing the ESRI council.
The Special EU Programmes Body does not have a board, while the remaining bodies listed, the Taskforce on Emergency Planning and the Irish Telecommunications Investment Plc, do not come under the aegis of my Department.
71 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Finance the estimated amounts charged by insurance fund providers and intermediaries and other agents in each of the most recent three years for which data is available in setting up and in paying annuities and other benefits under personal, private and occupational pension arrangements. [40995/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is not available to my Department, as neither the Financial Regulator nor the Pensions Board collects such data. The Deputy should note that the administration of pension schemes is primarily the responsibility of scheme trustees. Trustees are required to, at all times, act in the best interests of scheme members, with due regard being paid to the legislation governing the operation of pension schemes and the trust deeds and rules of individual schemes. In discharging their duties to members, trustees must ensure that they are achieving best value in terms of administration charges and other fees and commissions payable arising from the operation of pension schemes.
It should also be noted that the Financial Regulator published a Consultation Paper ‘Review of Remuneration Structures and Transparency' in January 2005 seeking views in relation to remuneration structures in the insurance market and also in relation to non-insurance investment products. This would include certain investment-type pension products. It sought views, on amongst other things, as to how the charging structures could be made simpler and clearer for the consumer and looked for suggestions as to what would be an appropriate measure of the impact of those charges and a means of comparing one product with another. The Financial Regulator's response to the first phase of consultation will be published on its website on 30 November setting out the questions that were posed as part of the review, the responses received and the next phase of the review.
The Government is also committed to publishing a Green Paper on pensions as part of its commitments under ‘Towards 2016'. It is expected that this will be published by the end of March next year. Given the role which annuities play in delivering retirement incomes the Green Paper will include an examination of that market.
72 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the reason VRT at 13.3% is calculated on motor homes imported here valued at €40,000 even though it value price is less; his plans to change the VRT on motor homes imported here; the reason a motor home that weighs over 3000kg only has a charge of €50; if this taxation charge applies to Irish citizens to promote a single market approach to trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41001/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) is assessed on the open market selling price (OMSP) of a vehicle in the State and is defined in Section 133 of the Finance Act 1992 as the price inclusive of all taxes and duties which, in the opinion of the Revenue Commissioners, the vehicle might reasonably fetch on a first arm's length sale in the open market in the State by retail. (Any person who has paid or is liable to pay VRT may appeal to the Commissioners against the amount of tax charged.).
Section 130 of the Finance Act 1992 provides the definition of a motor home or motor caravan (as they are referred to in VRT legislation) for VRT purposes. Motor caravans with an unladen weight of not more than 3,000 kilograms are classified as category B — attracting a VRT rate of 13.3% of their OMSP in the State. Motor caravans with an unladen weight in excess of 3,000 kilograms are classified as category C attracting a flat rate of VRT of €50.
Motor caravans with an unladen weight of not more than 3,000 kilograms have the potential to be used as car substitutes and this is reflected in their intermediate category B VRT classification. Heavier caravans in excess of 3,000 kilograms are unlikely to be used as car substitutes and are, therefore, afforded category C classification.
VRT is payable by all individuals (Irish nationals and non-nationals) on the registration of vehicles in the State. Finally, EU Member States are entitled to impose National taxes provided that there is no discrimination against imported goods in favour of indigenous goods. In this regard VRT is a National tax in Ireland and does not contravene EU law in that the VRT payable on registration of an imported vehicle is equal to the amount of residual VRT contained in a similar vehicle already in the State.
73 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the properties his Department or other Departments has leased on long or short term lease from any private company or individual since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or individual; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41002/06]
74 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the properties his Department or bodies in his Department has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41017/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 73 and 74 together.
The information requested by the Deputy is currently being compiled. It will be forwarded to him as soon as possible.
75 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when a P45 will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41041/06]
I have been informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the person's former employer issued a form P45 to him on 27 October 2006. The Inspector of Taxes issued a copy of the form P45 to the person on 28 November 2006.
76 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that being without a further contract of employment in 2002 and thus without an income, a person (details supplied) was obliged under duress to sign a waiver of their right to a pension lump sum in order to draw down their severance payment; if he will take steps to ensure that the full benefit of the 1997 scheme which did not entail forfeiture of pension lump sum is restored to this person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41059/06]
The 2002 voluntary early retirement package for staff employed under the secretarial assistance scheme provided that the lump sum due at retirement was incorporated within the terms of the package and staff availing of the package were required to sign a declaration in that regard. This element of the package represented a tax free element of the package and the remainder of the package was also subject to certain tax allowances. This element was always built into the terms of such packages for secretarial assistants. I do not intend to change the terms of the VER package, as outlined in 2002, that will be made available to staff who cannot secure a contract after the next General Election.
In the case of this individual, I understand Solicitors acting on their behalf have been instructed to initiate legal proceedings and the Deputy will appreciate therefore, that it would not be appropriate for me to make a public statement on it.
77 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) with a disability will be transferred to a service near their home; and if the family will be given the maximum support. [40924/06]
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.
78 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children if National Lottery funding will be provided for a centre (details supplied) in County Kerry which is a project that applied for funding in July 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40928/06]
My Department received an application for a grant from the Health and Children allocation of National Lottery funds from the organisation referred to.
There is a protocol in my Department for processing applications for National Lottery grants. When a completed application form is received in my Department it is registered in the Finance Unit and forwarded to the relevant Service Division for their assessment, evaluation and recommendation. All applications are then considered in the context of the recommendation and the overall level of funds available. This application is one of many under consideration for a grant from my Department and the organisation in question will be informed as soon as a decision has been made.
79 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether autism rates have increased in the past 10 years; the rate of increase; if the perceived increase is due to better diagnosis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40940/06]
There are currently no statistics available in Ireland either on a national or county basis on the level of diagnosed autism. The health services have, at regional level, in recent years been expanding the level of information available to them on the numbers and needs of persons with autism in their regions. While some persons with autism, who also have an intellectual disability, are included on the National Intellectual Disability Database, it does not contain information on this group as a whole. In addition while the database provides information in relation to the level of services being provided and current and future needs, it does not identify persons with specific disabilities such as autism or Down syndrome. Its principal role is as a planning and monitoring instrument.
This issue is now being examined in the context of the overall information requirements set out in Section 13 of Part 2 of the Disability Act 2005 which imposes significant requirements on the HSE to keep and maintain detailed records in relation to the Act. Over the next twelve months as outlined in the Department's Sectoral Plan, published in July 2006, the HSE will be reviewing the existing information management systems within the disability and mental health services, to identify what additional resources and infrastructure would be required to meet the obligations under Section 13 of Part 2 of the Disability Act 2005.
It is intended that the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), on establishment, will be requested to set standards in relation to the information and data requirements under the Disability Act.
80 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the increase in asthma rates in the past 10 years; the cost of asthma treatment to the State; the steps she has taken to deal with the problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40941/06]
My Department is aware in recent years of an increase in the frequency of asthma. The level of asthma depends on the age group and, in Ireland, has risen to approximately 20% in young teenagers. However, as asthma is not a notifiable illness information regarding its incidence in the general population is not systematically collected by my Department as if it were notifiable.
There is no single figure relating to cost of asthma treatment. There are a variety of risk factors for asthma and, in recognition of the environmental and genetic factors that contribute to asthma, Ireland has been involved in a number of initiatives on asthma. Ireland has supported the European Union's Joint Research Council initiative on childhood asthma and co-ordinated an EU approach under the Irish Presidency of the European Union in 2004. Ireland has also participated in international prevalence studies on asthma and there is ongoing work on the development of information systems on asthma.
In recent years, the Health Research Board has funded a number of proposals relating to asthma and respiratory disease. Legislation on smoking at work has also provided greater protection from toxic tobacco smoke which contributes to asthma. My Department has also raised the issue of asthma in discussions with the HSE in the context of their service plan for chronic disease programmes.
81 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children if there has been an increase in allergies here in the past 10 years; the cost to the State of treating allergies; the steps she has taken to deal with this problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40942/06]
Allergy describes a range of immune reactions to substances in the environment which, although usually harmless, may cause hypersensitivity in certain individuals. A range of body systems can be affected by substances in the air, in water and food. There is no overall figure on costs or the level of allergy in Ireland, however, it is generally accepted in the western world that there has been a real increase in the incidence of allergic conditions which are not simply related to better ascertainment.
Allergy services are provided for in the primary care setting and public hospitals provide further services for the identification and management of allergies. My Department has contacted the Health Service Executive on the provision of allergy services and I have requested that they reply directly to the Deputy with the available information.
82 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is a mechanism within her Department for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare to apply for occupational therapy equipment for their children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40951/06]
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.
83 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason no funding has been provided for staff at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare for vaccinations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40952/06]
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.
84 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has arranged immediate talks with the Health Service Executive in respect of the submission made by Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin in respect of the Mater site chosen by the HSE task force for the new Children’s Hospital; and her views on the impact of the submission on the public debate in the matter. [40983/06]
The report referred to by the Deputy has already been the subject of detailed discussions between representatives of Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, and the joint HSE/ Department of Health and Children Transition Group which is advancing the development of the new National Paediatric Hospital. The Group is in the process of engaging consultants to prepare a high level framework brief which will help to inform decisions in relation to the full range of services to be provided at the new hospital. The Transition Group has agreed that the Crumlin report will be taken into consideration in the preparation of the framework brief.
I have also met with representatives from the hospital, and have assured them that I am committed to ensuring that the new National Paediatric Hospital will deliver a world-class service for the children of this country.
Based on its work to date, the Transition Group is satisfied that the Mater site has the space necessary to fully accommodate a world-class National Paediatric Hospital.
85 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive to Parliamentary Question No. 194 of 25 October 2006. [40989/06]
I understand that a reply has issued from the Health Service Executive to the Deputy dated 28 November 2006.
86 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the details of the stroke rehabilitation services on offer in each Health Service Executive area; if an upper age limit exists in any or every area for the receipt of such services; the details of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40990/06]
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.
87 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children if an upper age limit has been set in a Health Service Executive area for access to cardiac services as stated in a document (details supplied); if so, the HSE areas where this limit applies; if she is satisfied in relation to this situation continuing situation continuing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40991/06]
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.
88 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is true that in a Health Service Executive area there is no aggressive oncology treatment for older people with cancer as stated in a document (details supplied); if so, the details of where this age limit applies; the action he will take to change this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40992/06]
The reference to cancer treatment in the document referred to by the Deputy is in fact an extract from an earlier study entitled Perceptions of Ageism in Health and Social Services in Ireland, 2005. The Government's policy is to ensure that persons with cancer receive appropriate, timely and quality treatment for their condition regardless of their age. There were 93,549 patients discharged from hospital following a diagnosis of cancer in 2005, representing an increase of 69% since 1997. A significant proportion of these discharges related to elderly persons. I am committed to further significant investment to provide quality assured treatment to cancer patients on an equitable basis.
The Strategy for Cancer Control, which I launched last June, makes recommendations in relation to the continuum of cancer care from health promotion, prevention and screening through to treatment services, supportive and palliative care and research. The Strategy, which is being implemented, emphasises the need to address inequalities and improve quality.
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the research in question examined and to respond directly to the Deputy.
89 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 gaining access to an occupational therapist; the length of time this person can expect to wait to see an occupational therapist; and the alternatives open to this person if they cannot get access to the therapist in the short term. [41003/06]
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.
90 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who was assessed as needing speech and language therapy 20 months ago will receive such therapy services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41004/06]
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.
91 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will waive hospital costs or charges in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41042/06]
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.
92 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if grant aid is available to install wood burning heating systems or stoves (details supplied). [40925/06]
The Greener Homes Scheme, which I launched in March of this year, provides support to homeowners to invest in a range of renewable energy heating technologies including wood biomass boilers and stoves, heat pumps and solar technology. Biomass in this context refers to wood pellets only. The scheme is being administered on behalf of my Department by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI). I have asked my officials to forward the individuals details to SEI and they will send out an information pack directly. Details of the scheme can also be obtained directly from SEI's website (www.sei.ie/greenerhomes) or by calling a dedicated lo-call number 1850 734 734 (1850 SEI SEI).
93 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the avenues of appeal open to a person who has been refused a grant under the SEI greener homes scheme and a person who has a grant offer rescinded after an offer has been made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41057/06]
The Greener Homes Scheme is being administered on behalf of my Department by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI).
Applications under the scheme are evaluated by the scheme's implementation team, against the published set of defined eligibility criteria which can be found on SEI's website at (www.sei.ie/greenerhomes).
There is a Steering Committee in place (which includes members of the management team) to oversee implementation of the programme.
The process for any individual wishing to appeal any decision under the scheme is to direct their appeal to the Head of Customer Services, Sustainable Energy Ireland, Glasnevin, Dublin 9. All such appeals are considered by a designated Appeals Committee which is a sub group of the Greener Homes Steering Committee.
94 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the impact of an Irish grant aided fishing factory ship on the livelihoods of coastal communities of African countries such as Mauritania and Mozambique; the terms of this grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39533/06]
The European Community has Fisheries Partnership Agreements with both Mauritania and Mozambique. Irish vessels do not operate under the EU-Mozambique agreement. Under the agreement with Mauritania, agreed on 21st July last, Ireland secured pelagic fishing opportunities for non-freezer pelagic vessels. Applications have been received from three Irish vessel owners to avail of these opportunities. These applications are currently being processed by the European Commission and the Mauritanian authorities. I wish to advise the Deputy that none of these vessels have received grant aid. Under the previous EU-Mauritania agreement there were no fishing possibilities available to Irish vessels. However, during this time an Irish vessel did fish in Mauritanian waters under a private agreement. This vessel did not receive grant aid.
I would like to assure the Deputy that both parties to the EU-Mauritania agreement are committed to responsible fishing and are promoting the introduction of responsible fisheries to ensure the long-term conservation and sustainable exploitation of fisheries resources in the area. Irish vessels fishing in Mauritanian waters under this agreement will be subject to the laws and regulations in force in Mauritania.
95 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when broadband will be extended to an area (details supplied) in County Westmeath; when the next round of funding for group broadband schemes will be announced; the number of rural broadband projects in County Westmeath funded to date; the number on the waiting list for funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40921/06]
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.
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 for the delivery of a nationwide broadband service are currently being considered by a Steering Group comprising officials from my Department and representatives from ComReg. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
The following is the status of the Group Broadband Scheme project proposals which were received for Co. Westmeath:
|
Received |
Approved |
Grant Amount Approved |
Operational |
Grant Aid Claimed to date |
|
5 |
3 |
€80,355 |
3 |
€67,851 |
|
Received |
Approved |
Grant Amount Approved |
Operational |
Grant Claimed to date |
|
4 |
4 |
€105,038 |
4 |
€51,026 |
In relation to Multyfarnham, Co.Westmeath, no applications have been submitted or received for grant funding under the group broadband scheme.
However, My Department's website www.broadband.gov.ie gives full details of broadband availability in all areas, including ADSL, cable, fibre, satellite and fixed wireless. The website also lists prices of the various service levels on offer and contact details for each service provider.
96 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the volume of duty free production that will be allowed for each of the successful applicants in the Government's biofuel support scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41007/06]
The information that the Deputy requested is provided in the following table:
|
Category |
Company |
Volume Awarded for period 2006-2010 |
|
Bioethanol |
Cooley-Clearpower 162 Clontarf Road, Dublin 3 |
54.38m litres |
|
Bioethanol |
Maxol Ltd 3 Custom House Plaza, IFSC, Dublin 1 |
42.15m litres |
|
Bioethanol |
One Fifty One Ltd 151 Thomas Street, Dublin 8 |
176.07m litres |
|
Bioethnol |
Topaz Energy Ltd Topaz House, Beechill Office Campus, Clonskeagh, Dublin 4 |
33.4m litres |
|
EN590 |
Conoco Phillips Whitegate Refinery Ltd Whitegate, Midleton, Co Cork |
93m litres |
|
EN590 |
Biodiesel Production Ire / Topaz Energy Ltd Beech Hill Office Park, Clonskeagh, Dublin 4 |
68m litres |
|
EN590 |
Green Biofuels Ireland Ltd Blackstoops, Enniscorthy, Co Wexford |
32m litres |
|
EN50 |
Irish Food Processors Ltd 14 Castle Street, Ardee, Co Louth |
97m litres |
|
Pure Plant Oil |
Biogreen Energy Products Ltd The Leap, Adamstown, Co Wexford |
7m litres |
|
Pure Plant Oil |
Eilish Oils Ltd Kilmurry, Newtownmountkennedy, Co Wicklow |
7m litres |
|
Pure Plant Oil |
Goldstar Oils Ltd Oldcourt, Inistioge, Co Kilkenny |
7m litres |
|
Captive Fleets |
Greyhound Recycling and Recovery Ltd Knockmitten Lane, Western Industrial Estate, Dublin 12 |
21.68m litres |
|
Captive Fleets |
Emo Oil Ltd Clonminam Industrial Estate, Portlaoise, Co Laoise |
9.65m litres |
|
Captive Fleets |
EcoOla Innovation in Business Centre, Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway |
9.3m litres |
|
Captive Fleets |
Eco Fuels Ltd Crohane, Fossa, Killarney, Co Kerry |
6.4m litres |
|
Captive Fleets |
Bord na Móna plc Main Street, Newbridge, Co Kildare |
0.58m litre |
97 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the properties his Department or bodies in his Department has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41011/06]
Leasing of property and accommodation occupied by my Department is in the main managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and my Department has no direct role in these matters. My Department has a direct involvement in leasing / renting only two small properties and details of these arrangements are set out in the attached table. The issue of state bodies leasing property is an operational matter for the agencies themselves and one in which I do not have a role.
|
Property name or address |
Length of Lease |
Name of Leaser |
Specific Conditions entered into, if any |
Details of Payments or Cost |
Details of Upward rental Clause |
|
Seafood Control Office, Cobh, Co. Cork |
Annual rental |
Mr. Michael Whelan |
none |
Annual rental: €3000.00 |
none |
|
Seafood Control Office, Greencastle, Co. Donegal |
Annual rental |
Foyle Fisheries Co-operative |
none |
Annual rental: €7,200.00 |
none |
98 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the nature of discussions he has had with existing or potential services providers in regard to the provision of nationwide broadband and other state-of-the-art telecommunication facilities; if he has received or studied offers available to complete the project in accordance with best international practice; the issues which remain an obstacle to achieving the target; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41037/06]
99 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent of the discussions he has had with the various service providers with a view to achieving 100% nationwide coverage in respect of broadband; if discussion has taken place with a view to identification of the issues which have to date impeded the provision of broadband; if all service providers are compliant with EU legislation as transposed into Irish law in regard to loop unbundling or other similar or associated requirements having particular regard to the pressing nature of the requirements of industry and the domestic sector and having particular reference to his reply to parliamentary questions previous to 19 October 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41038/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 and 99 together.
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 regulation and implementation of Local Loop unbundling is the responsibility of the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, under the Communications Regulation Act of 2002, and the transposed EU regulatory framework for Electronic Communications Networks and Services. The role of Government is to put in place effective 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. In order to assist with this, the Steering Group is currently seeking the views of Service Providers across all technology platforms. I expect to finalise proposals shortly.
100 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his policy in regard to gas, electricity, diesel and petrol prices here, in view of the fact that the Government is a beneficiary in terms of VAT from the higher prices; if his attention has been drawn to the impact of such a policy on transport, manufacturing and domestic costs; his proposals to encourage the production of alternative energy by way of alleviation of such costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41039/06]
I have no function in relation to the imposition of VAT on fuels or gas and electricity tariffs. This is a matter for the Minister for Finance. The Irish oil market is fully privatised and deregulated. Oil prices in Ireland are not controlled outside of the level of taxation levied by the Minister for Finance. In these circumstances neither I, nor indeed any regulatory body, has any function in the matter of petrol or diesel prices.
As regards the promotion of alternative energy, just last week I awarded sixteen projects excise relief over a five year period on biofuels, valued at over €200m. 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. Earlier this year I launched the Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) programme. REFIT allows project developers to negotiate long term fixed price contracts in the wholesale electricity market. The costs of REFIT are supported through the operation of a Public Service Obligation (PSO) levy.
101 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the degree to which the regulatory system as transposed into Irish law delivers equality in terms of cost and quality of service in respect of mobile telephony here as compared with the services throughout the rest of the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41040/06]
I have no function in these matters. In accordance with the requirements of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the Regulations, transposing the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications Networks and Services , the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), is responsible for the regulation of telecommunications operators, including regulatory issues surrounding mobile telephony costs and quality.
102 Mr. English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of recent developments where the IFA has withdrawn their support for Self Help, he has investigated the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40909/06]
103 Mr. English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the recent media coverage, he has satisfied himself with the corporate governance procedures within Self Help; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40910/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 102 and 103 together.
Irish Aid has had a positive relationship with Self Help Development International (SHDI) for over 20 years. From 2003 to 2006, SHDI received almost €10 million from Irish Aid under our Multi Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS). MAPS is an Irish Aid funding scheme which aims to strengthen the strategic and programmatic planning of the larger Irish NGOs through a flexible and predictable funding framework.
The five MAPS partners — Concern, Trócaire, GOAL, Christian Aid and SHDI — were invited to participate in a second MAPS programme to commence next year. Unfortunately, SHDI have since encountered well-publicised difficulties relating to its own governance, which are ongoing. These difficulties were not, in any way, of Irish Aid's making. We were assured on several occasions that these difficulties were at an end. This has proven not to be the case. The difficulties have worsened considerably in recent weeks with the less than amicable dissolution of the formal relationship between SHDI, which is steeped in the rural community, and the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA). SHDI had been the IFA's designated Third World development agency since its foundation 20 years ago. Inevitably, the combined effect of these public difficulties will have a significant impact on the support that SHDI has enjoyed for many years from rural communities.
SHDI's boardroom divisions give rise to serious concerns, taking into consideration their impact on the organisation and the significant amount of public monies that Irish Aid has been allocating to SHDI. Accordingly, and regrettably, SHDI were recently informed that it was not feasible to continue to process their application for funding under the second phase of the MAPS Programme for the period 2007- 2011. It is not possible at this time to consider entering into a multi-annual funding commitment having regard to the level of public monies concerned and the deterioration in the financial and organisational stability which is a central requirement from all our MAPS partners. We are continuing to engage in discussions with SHDI to see how best we can continue to work together to ensure, insofar as possible, the continuance of their highly-regarded programmes in developing countries.
It is critical that the beneficiaries of SHDI's programmes in Africa do not suffer on account of governance issues here at home. Irish Aid very much hopes that SHDI will be able, in due course, to place their current difficulties behind them.
104 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a further search has taken place for a missing person (details supplied) in Bosnia in the past two weeks; if so, the area covered by the search; the number of personnel involved; if Irish military or Garda personnel took part; the duration and outcome of the search; if new information has come to the attention of the local Bosnian authorities and the Irish authorities regarding the missing person; if consideration will be given to engaging the services of a local Bosnian private investigation agency on the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40950/06]
A diplomatic officer from the Irish Embassy in Ljubljana was in Bosnia-Herzegovina recently to advance a further search for the Irish citizen missing in the Medjugorje area. This was the third such visit by Embassy staff, including the Ambassador, both in the context of providing consular assistance and support to the family of the missing person and to review the search operation. Following meetings with the local authorities in Medjugorje, Citluk and Mostar, together with representatives of EUPM (European Union Police Mission) and EUMM (European Union Monitoring Mission), it was agreed to carry out a further large scale and intensive search in Medjugorje and the surrounding areas. On the basis of local expert advice, this search was timed to coincide with the growing back of vegetation and the resultant greatly enhanced visibility for the searchers.
This large scale search was undertaken on 23 November. It covered Medjugorje and the surrounding areas, and involved some 80 police officers. The Krizevac Hill (a hill where pilgrims assemble for the Stations of the Cross) was thoroughly searched by teams from a Support Unit in Mostar, including a Dog Unit. A Garda stationed in Bosnia-Herzegovina with the EUPM was involved and has been exceptionally helpful throughout this difficult period. No Irish Defence Force personnel were involved. To our great regret, this extensive search produced no new developments. In addition, the local police in Medjugorje recently searched two further areas in the locality, and have assured the Embassy that their efforts will be maintained on an ongoing basis. Furthermore, the Hunting Clubs in the Region, who are active every weekend and have large memberships, have agreed to support the search effort in every way possible. In essence everything possible has been, and will continue to be done to find the missing person. Against the above background, there has to be a question mark about the value of a separate private investigation; I think it would be understood also that this would not be a matter for the Department. As I have already assured the Deputy and this House, the Consular Division of the Department and the Embassy in Ljubljana will continue to provide all possible consular assistance to the family of the person in question. In this regard, the staff of Consular Division are in regular contact with the husband of the missing person, who is extremely appreciative of their support and solidarity.
105 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his proposals to remove the names of two minors from the passport of a person (details supplied) living outside the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40980/06]
The names of the two children to whom the Deputy has referred are not included on the passport of their father, who resides in Lebanon. The children were in fact issued with passports in their own names in 1998, with the consent of both parents. The Department has been in contact on several occasions with the children's mother including during the recent Lebanon crisis, when it was also in contact with her two children. I can assure the Deputy that the Department, the Embassy in Cairo and the Honorary Consul-General in Beirut will continue to provide the children's mother with all possible consular assistance.
106 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the properties his Department or bodies in his Department has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41018/06]
The Headquarters of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Iveagh House, is owned by the State. The Department has staff in seven other premises in Dublin. In the case of six of these, the premises are rented on the Department's behalf by the Office of Public Works. The same arrangement applies in regard to the Passport Office in Cork. One property in Dublin is leased directly by the Department and the relevant details are as follows:
|
Premises |
Owners |
Rent Level |
Terms of Lease |
|
Ground Floor, Hospitality House, South Cumberland Street, Dublin 2 |
AIB Custodial Nominees Ltd. |
€144,900 per annum |
Expires 2015; rent reviews provided for at 5 year intervals |
The Department also maintains a network of missions abroad, some of which are owned by the State but the majority are rented. In a number of locations, Ireland House arrangements are in place, with the accommodation being shared between the Mission and offices of Irish State Agencies. In these cases, the proportionate share of the overall rent is recouped by the Department from the relevant State Agency.
107 Mr. English asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of unsuccessful applications from Meath under the sports capital programme for each of the years 2004, 2005 and 2006; and if he will provide the names of these groups. [40959/06]
108 Mr. English asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of applications received by his Department from organisations in County Meath under the 2007 sports capital programme; if he will provide a list of these organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40966/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 108 together.
The sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The programme is advertised on an annual basis. I am arranging for a list of the unsuccessful applications from County Meath for each of 2004, 2005 and 2006 to be sent to the Deputy. The 2007 round of the sports capital programme was advertised on 15th and 16th October last. The closing date for receipt of applications was Friday last, November 24th. At this point I can tell the Deputy that in excess of 1,400 applications were received before the deadline, compared with 1,338 under the 2006 programme. Given the large volume of applications received and the complexity of processing and evaluating the information required, it is not possible at this early stage to provide an exact number of applications received from County Meath. While the deliberative process of the processing and assessment of applications is ongoing, it is not considered appropriate to provide a listing of applications or information relating to individual applications. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
109 Mr. English asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the action he proposes to take to ensure the competitiveness of the tourist industry in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40973/06]
118 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the extent to which Ireland remains as a good value tourist location with particular reference to comparisons with adjacent competitors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41033/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 109 and 118 together.
Tourism is a services industry, which relies heavily on labour, and Irish public policy operates on the basis of seeking to ensure that those in employment are paid fair wages. Our fiscal model also emphasises indirect as opposed to direct taxation. While both these approaches provide a strong economic development impetus, they can impact on consumption costs for the visitor. The Tourism Agencies continue to monitor Ireland's competitiveness as a tourism destination. While Ireland is clearly not a low-cost destination, it does seem that Ireland is not perceived as an expensive destination to get to but that there are issues about the relative cost of some on-the-ground amenities.
In 2005, Tourism Ireland undertook a pilot project that focused on benchmarking Ireland's offering online against our key competitors in the top 4 markets (GB, USA, France and Germany) in relation to the cost, availability and choice of flights, hotels and car hire. Overall, it appears that Ireland, in the online arena, is very competitive in these sectors. Fáilte Ireland's Visitor Attitude Survey shows that the area of value, price and good all-round value for money remains an important prerequisite for visitors when considering Ireland as their holiday destination, as does the availability of reasonably priced accommodation and competitively priced air and sea fares. In relation to accommodation prices specifically, it is encouraging to note the results of a recently published survey conducted by Hotels.com. The results show that, on average, hotel room rates in Dublin for the second quarter of this year were down compared to the same period last year and were cheaper than room rates in London or Belfast. The survey reported that room rates in Cork and Belfast were also down on last year. It is important to remember, however, that competitiveness is not just about price. It is about value for money and, if our tourism sector is to be competitive, that is what it must deliver. As in most industries, there is, no doubt, scope for efficiency gains and Fáilte Ireland has a range of programmes to help the industry in this area.
The Report of the Tourism Policy Review Group, "New Horizons for Irish Tourism" published in September 2003, set out a range of actions to address competitiveness. My Department, the tourism agencies, and the tourism industry will continue to focus on these actions.
110 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the properties his Department or bodies in his Department has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41010/06]
All the buildings occupied by my Department or by bodies in my Department since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006 are either owned by the State or leased by the Office of Public Works (OPW).
111 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the measures in hand, or proposed, to promote an awareness of the arts amongst young people; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41025/06]
113 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if it is intended to initiate programmes to promote the arts amongst local community organisations, specifically aimed at the youth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41027/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 111 and 113 together.
Government policy for the Arts is set out in the Programme for Government and elaborated further in my Department's Statement of Strategy. The Arts Council is the principal agency through which Government support to the Arts is channelled. Having regard for the statutory functions of the Arts Council as set out in Section 9 of the Arts Act 2003, and in accordance with section 21 of that Act, a Special Arts in Education Committee has been established to advise the Arts Council on how best to align the Council's strategies for the promotion and encouragement of the arts with the priorities of the formal education system. The Committee should deliver its advice to the Council by 1st May 2007.
Acknowledging the contribution that the Arts can make to a rounded and balanced educational experience, the Committee will have regard to:
(a) the wide range of demands on the school curriculum bearing in mind that responsibility for determining the content of the school curriculum rests with the Minister for Education and Science;
(b) the need to prioritise and cost its recommendations; these recommendations must have regard both to their resource implications for the Arts Council and also to the fact that the budgetary resources likely to be available over the next four years to the Minister for Education and Science for development of services in the education sector must be allocated to fund existing policy commitments;
(c) subject to (b) above, the identification of what additional sources of funding, if any, might be available to fund its recommendations; and
(d) the roles and partnerships that are appropriate for relevant State and other agencies and bodies in this context, including the Department of Education and Science, the Arts Council, Vocational Education Committees, and Local Authorities.
The focus of the Special Committee's advice should be on making specific deliverable recommendations for implementation over three to five years.
I believe that by giving the arts a higher, more consistent profile at both primary and second level, we can not only benefit the arts, but can also bring significant benefits to the students concerned, which will stay with them for all of their lives. It is important also to stress that this applies to all students, and not just to those who are recognised as being particularly gifted artistically.
Every parent in the country wants their children to be creative, to be imaginative, and to express this creativity and imagination as best as they can. Because the future of the arts in Ireland rests with our young people, it is vital that the Arts are embedded into our education system at a fundamental level, beginning at primary and pre-primary level, and continuing on from there. I have always believed that the benefits of the arts for the individual are greatly increased if exposure to the arts takes place during a person's most formative years, and for that reason it is a real priority of mine to enhance the position of the arts in our education system.
112 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the extent to which he has received applications for grant aid towards the provision of sporting or recreational facilities throughout County Kildare; when he expects to respond to these applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41026/06]
The sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The programme is advertised on an annual basis.
The 2007 round of the sports capital programme was advertised on 15th and 16th October last. The closing date for receipt of applications was Friday last, November 24th. At this point I can tell the Deputy that in excess of 1,400 applications were received before the deadline, compared with 1,338 under the 2006 programme. Given the large volume of applications received and the complexity of processing and evaluating the information required, it is not possible at this early stage to provide an exact number of applications received from County Kildare. The applications will be evaluated in accordance with the programme's assessment criteria outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme, which accompany the application form. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
My Department also administers the local authority swimming pool programme, which provides grant aid to local authorities towards the capital costs of a new or replacement public swimming pool or the refurbishment of an existing pool. The deadline for receipt of applications under the current round of the programme was 31 July 2000 and no new applications are currently being invited, the priority being to support those projects remaining to be completed. Of the 57 applications under the current round, two were from Kildare County Council, to replace the swimming pools in Athy and Naas. I approved the tender documents submitted by the Council and maximum grant aid of €3.8 million in respect of those pools on 24 October and 20 July last, respectively.
114 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the efforts being made to promote all facets of the arts at local level here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41028/06]
116 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the efforts being made to promote the arts at regional, county and community level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41030/06]
I propose to take Question Nos. 114 and 116 together.
The Arts Council is the principal agency through which State funding is channelled to the arts. Under the Arts Act 2003, the general functions of the Council include the following: to stimulate public interest in the arts; to promote knowledge, appreciation and practice of the arts; to assist in improving standards in the arts. My Department has no function in deciding on the extent of Arts Council funding for particular projects or locations. Indeed, the Arts Act 2003 underpins the Council's independence in this context. I am delighted to have secured €80m in 2007 for the Arts Council.
My Department does directly provide capital grants for arts and culture infrastructure around the country. The main vehicle for such capital funding is the Arts & Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme (ACCESS), under which almost €43 million was provided to 40 arts and cultural facilities around the country. This scheme commenced in 2001 but many projects are still in the course of completion. Applications for a second round of the highly successful ACCESS scheme are currently being assessed and I hope to make an announcement in this regard in the New Year. In addition to ACCESS, almost €53m has been awarded to Other Capital Projects in 2004, 2005 and 2006. These projects, while not formally part of the ACCESS scheme, are managed in the same way as the ACCESS projects and the same objectives apply.
115 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will develop a policy to encourage, promote and offer financial assistance to musical and theatrical societies wishing to provide buildings or facilities in their own neighbourhoods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41029/06]
On 24th July last, I announced a new scheme to support investment in arts and culture infrastructure. This new scheme called ACCESS II (Arts and Culture Enhancement Support Scheme II) will run from 2007 to 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. While the intention is to prioritise the enhancement and maintenance of existing facilities, there will also be provision under the terms of the scheme to support new build projects.
This is a successor to the highly successful ACCESS scheme, introduced in August 2001, which allocated almost €43 million to the promoters of some 40 projects. This scheme greatly enhanced the provision of arts and culture infrastructure nationwide, thereby increasing accessibility to the arts for all.
Applications under ACCESS II were accepted up to 17th November 2006 and the selection of projects will be undertaken in close collaboration with the Arts Council. 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.
117 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the extent to which tourism here has grown in comparison with other European destinations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41032/06]
According to the data available to me, Ireland has been outperforming the European average in terms of attracting increased numbers of visitors.
International arrivals to Europe, as reported by the UN World Tourism Organisation grew at a rate of
4.0% in 2005, and
3.1% in the first 8 months of 2006.
This compares with growth rates for Ireland, as recorded by the CSO, of
6.1% in 2005, and
10.8% in the first 8 months of 2006.
Based on this evidence, it seems likely that Ireland's growth rate will again be well ahead of the European average in 2006.
119 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of staff employed by Enterprise Ireland; their present location; the number designated for decentralisation; the timetable for decentralisation; and the status of the operation. [40907/06]
Enterprise Ireland currently employs a total of 921 staff. The 666 Dublin based staff are currently located in four separate offices; 402 in Glasnevin, 158 in Strand Road, Sandymount, 52 in Shelbourne Road, Ballsbridge and 54 in Wilton Place, Dublin. A further 125 staff members are located in Enterprise Ireland's overseas offices, and 130 are located in Irish regional offices. The Board of Enterprise Ireland has decided to locate all Dublin based staff in a single site in East Point Business Park. It is planned that all Dublin based staff will have moved to East Point by the end of 2007.
The Government has decided that the Headquarters of Enterprise Ireland, including 300 posts, will relocate to Shannon as part of the Decentralisation programme. Enterprise Ireland, working closely with the Office of Public Works (OPW), has identified, but not yet acquired, a preferred site for the construction of a new HQ building in Shannon. The preferred site is a 13-acre site owned by Shannon Development. In co-operation with Shannon Development and the OPW, the site was valued and a feasibility study carried out. The site occupies a prime position in Shannon and is considered suitable for a major landmark building or civic structure.
It is not possible, at this stage, to say with certainty when the full move of Enterprise Ireland's HQ will take place. Influencing factors regarding the timing of the move to Shannon include the level of interest in the Shannon location expressed by CAF applicants, and suitable transfer arrangements being established.
In the interim, Enterprise Ireland is to relocate its Regional Development Headquarter activities to Shannon. These activities will include the existing Shannon Development activities relating to indigenous enterprises and support functions and the new Enterprise Ireland County Enterprise Board Co-ordination Unit.
The functions hitherto carried out by Shannon Development under delegated authority from Enterprise Ireland will revert to Enterprise Ireland on 1st January 2007. The transfer of functions will also involve the transfer of a number of staff from Shannon Development to Enterprise Ireland. The necessary arrangements to give effect to these changes are in train, including identification of the relevant posts and discussions with staff and their representatives.
Enterprise Ireland will establish interim office accommodation in the region, to accommodate Regional Development HQ and CEB Unit staff, as well as staff transferring from Shannon Development. Enterprise Ireland expect that the agency will have approximately 60 staff located in Shannon by mid 2007.
120 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of staff who will be transferred from the Shannon Development to Enterprise Ireland; the implications for the decentralisation of Enterprise Ireland of the transfer; and the projected cost of the transfer. [40908/06]
The reversion of responsibility for indigenous enterprise from Shannon Development to Enterprise Ireland will involve the transfer of some 40 staff to Enterprise Ireland.
The decentralisation of Enterprise Ireland's Headquarters to Shannon as part of the Government's decentralisation programme will not be affected by the transfer of functions from Shannon Development to Enterprise Ireland. Enterprise Ireland intends to establish interim office accommodation in Shannon to accommodate the Shannon Development staff who will transfer to Enterprise Ireland, as well as Regional Headquarter staff and the new Enterprise Ireland County Enterprise Board Co-ordination Unit, by mid 2007.
The cost of the transfer of staff from Shannon Development will be met from Shannon Development's resources, which will transfer with the persons concerned. Thus there will be no additional Exchequer costs associated with the transfer of staff.
121 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to an ongoing dispute between a company (details supplied) and its former employees represented by SIPTU regarding the non-payment of moneys due arising from a Labour Court recommendation; if it is his understanding that the company’s assets are adequate to cover the cost of the award, as in their submission to the Labour Court they did not plead inability to pay, and further that the company was in receipt over time of various grants and financial assistance from State agencies; if he will instruct those agencies to take whatever legal steps are necessary to prevent the directors of the company of disposing directly or indirectly of their property assets in a manner that would result in the State agency failing to receive a full return of taxpayers’ moneys due from the sale of such assets at below market value; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40954/06]
Statutory redundancy has been paid to the workers in the factory named by the Deputy. Ex gratia payments are a matter of negotiation between the company concerned and the workers, represented in this case by SIPTU. The Labour Court operates as an industrial relations tribunal, hearing both sides in a trade dispute. It then issues recommendations setting out its opinion on the dispute and the terms on which it considers the dispute should be settled. Responsibility for the settlement of a dispute ultimately rests with the parties themselves.
Grant agreements between Enterprise Ireland and companies are a matter for those parties and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment does not have a direct function in this area.
I am advised that the company in question has been paid a total of €1.368m in supports by Enterprise Ireland since 1986. All funding provided by Enterprise Ireland is subject to a legal grant agreement between the company and Enterprise Ireland. Enterprise Ireland grant aided companies must meet the obligations to creditors and employees in the event of closure or liquidation.
When Enterprise Ireland funded companies cease manufacturing, close or liquidate and there are still contingent liabilities outstanding on the grants paid to the companies, the liabilities crystalise. In these circumstances, it is Enterprise Ireland's policy to seek revocation of grant monies paid. If there are sufficient assets available to repay secured and unsecured creditors, Enterprise Ireland expects to be treated in the same way as the latter. In terms of preference share investment, this is recovered after named creditors and before ordinary shareholders.
An offer of repayment of the preference shares has been made to Enterprise Ireland and is currently being considered by the agency. Issues remain regarding grant repayments and convertible preference shares which will be considered in the light of up-to-date accounts sought and yet to be furnished by the company.
122 Mr. English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures that have been taken or are proposed to support the furniture industry in Navan, County Meath which is continuously underpinned and is experiencing ongoing job losses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40956/06]
The furniture industry both in Navan and the country as a whole continues to face increased costs of production as well as competition from low cost economies. For some time now, the industry has been outsourcing part of its production in order to reduce costs and maintain competitiveness and this has had an adverse effect on employment.
Enterprise Ireland continues to assist the furniture sector by encouraging investment in innovation so that companies can increase home market share and develop export markets. The principal areas of support are aimed at research, development and design to increase the level and pace of new product development; strategic, operational & management development to improve competitiveness; and, increasing the level of investment in export marketing activity.
The sector is also supported by a Standards Based Apprenticeship System which is operated by the Industrial Training agency, FÁS. In this regard, an in-depth review, which took account of the needs of all the stakeholders, is being completed.
There is general buoyancy in overall employment in Co. Meath as evidenced by the most recent Live Register figures released by the Central Statistics Office. These show that for October 2006, the Live Register figure for the County is 2,853 which is down on the October 2005 figure of 2,937.
123 Mr. English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the ratio of jobs in a locality to the labour force resident in that locality in County Meath; and his plans to improve the jobs ratio, in order to minimise the necessity for person in County Meath to commute outside the county for employment. [40960/06]
The most recent data available is from the 2002 Census of Population. Based on an analysis of 15% of the addresses of place of work taken from that Census, the CSO estimates that approximately 55% of the County Meath labour force worked in the County. The percentage of those at work at that time was 93.4%.
Job creation is dependent on a number of factors including the economic and labour market dynamics. Much is and can be achieved outside of Government intervention.
As regards the development agencies under the remit of my Department, I am assured that they are endeavouring to attract new investment to the County, to encourage the start-up of new businesses, to grow existing businesses and to develop all aspects of the labour market. I understand that the net job gains in agency assisted firms in Meath is showing positive signs of growth in the past couple of years and that the efforts being made by the agencies will continue to bear fruit into the future.
124 Mr. English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number and skills level of job loss in County Meath in each of the past five years; the number and skills level of replacement jobs; if he will present the information in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40972/06]
The data in the latest Quarterly National Household Survey is published by the Central Statistics Office on a regional rather than a county basis and they show that the numbers in employment have increased in the Southern and Eastern region from 1,264,000 to 1,501,000 in the period 2000 to 2006.
The table below gives the number of job gains and job losses in Enterprise Agency Assisted Firms in Co. Meath in the past five years.
|
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
|
|
Job Gains |
507 |
291 |
566 |
453 |
660 |
|
Job losses |
-375 |
-647 |
-800 |
-372 |
-381 |
Source: Forfás Business Information System.
The table below gives the number of redundancies in County Meath from the period 2000 to 2006.
|
County |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
Total |
|
Meath |
163 |
172 |
400 |
671 |
480 |
450 |
669 |
3005 |
125 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the statutory procedures involved in the appointment of chairs and board members to bodies (details supplied); and the legislative origin of these procedures. [40976/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table.
|
Name of Body |
Statutory process for appointing Chair |
Statutory process for appointing the Members |
Legislative origin |
|
Irish National Accreditation Board |
Section 10 of the Industrial Development Act 1993 gives Forfás the authority to establish committees, including the Irish National Accreditation Board, and appoint the Chair thereof. |
As across, the Members of the Irish National Accreditation Board were appointed under Section 10. |
Section 10 of the Industrial Development Act 1993. |
|
National Consumer Agency |
The National Consumer Agency, which is not as yet a statutory body, was established by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment as an interim body. The Chairperson and Members for the Interim Board were appointed by the Minister having regard to the Minister’s overall responsibility for consumer policy. Legislation to establish the NCA on a statutory basis is expected to be published shortly and the Agency itself is expected to be fully operational early in 2007. |
As across |
As across |
|
Skillnets Ireland |
Skillnets is constituted as a private company and there is no statutory process for the appointment of the Chairman. In accordance with the Companies Acts 1963 to 2005, the Memorandum and Articles of Association of Skillnets Ltd. provide for the appointment of the Board of Directors. The Chairman is nominated by IBEC and other Board Members are nominated by the following business organisations — IBEC (3) and Small Firms Association, Construction Industry Federation and Chambers Ireland (1 each). In addition, ICTU nominates 3 Members. Three Members are nominated by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. At present one such Member is drawn from the Minister’s Department and the other two from private enterprise. The Board, including the Chairman, is appointed by the Members acting in general meeting. The proceedings for General Meetings are set out in the Articles and Memorandum of Association of Skillnets. |
As across |
Companies Acts 1963 to 2005 |
|
Expert Group on Future Skills Needs |
This Group does not have (or require) a legislative basis and is an advisory group. The Chair and Members of the Group are appointed by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, with the secretariat provided by Forfás. |
As across |
This Group does not have (or require) a legislative basis and is an advisory group. |
|
National Competitiveness Council |
The National Competitiveness Council (NCC) is a Partnership Body, set up by Government in 1997. The Chairman is appointed under the NCC’s terms of reference (see www.forfas.ie/ncc). |
Members are appointed under the NCC’s Terms of Reference. |
The NCC does not operate under statute. |
|
Name of Body |
Statutory process for appointing Chair |
Statutory process for appointing the Members |
Legislative origin |
|
National Framework Committee for Work Life Balance |
Established by the Social Partners under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness (no legislation involved). The Committee is chaired by an official of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (see www.worklifebalance.ie for further information) |
As across |
Established by the Social Partners under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness (no legislation involved). |
|
Consumer Strategy Group |
The Minister for Enterprise Trade & Employment established the Consumer Strategy Group having regard to the Minister’s overall responsibility for consumer policy. The Group, whose final Report was published in May 2005, was not a statutory body. Its Chairperson and Members were appointed by the Minister on an administrative basis. |
As across |
Group was not set up under statute |
|
Enterprise Strategy Group |
The Group was set up in 2003 in an advisory capacity to report on enterprise policy matters to the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The Group’s mandate ended when it issued its report. |
As across |
Group was not set up under statute. |
|
Task force on the prevention of Work Place Bullying |
This Taskforce was set up in 1999 in an advisory capacity to report to the Minister for Labour Affairs. Their mandate ended when the Taskforce reported to the Minister in 2001. |
As across |
Group was not set up under statute. |
|
Taskforce on Life Long Learning |
This Taskforce did not have (or require) a legislative basis. It was an advisory group and the Taskforce was disbanded in 2002. |
As across |
Group was not set up under statute. |
126 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the properties his Department or bodies in his Department has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41015/06]
My Department or bodies in my Department have not directly leased any properties. All properties leased for my Department and for bodies in my Department have been leased by the Office of Public Works which negotiates all the terms and conditions associated with these leases.
127 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will review the decision to refuse a work permit in respect of a person (details supplied) from the Philippines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41056/06]
The Work Permits section of my Department has informed me that this application was refused on the basis that the position that the employer seeks to fill could be filled from within the wider EU. The employer was notified of this decision in writing and of their right of appeal. To-date no such appeal has been received in the Work Permit section.
128 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on extending the deadline for applications for the back to school clothing and footwear allowance from the end of September to end of November each year; the financial and other implications of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40913/06]
The back to school clothing and footwear allowance scheme (BSCFA) is administered on behalf of my Department by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive. The 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.
Applications for the allowance may be made between the beginning of June and the end of September each year. This period was designated as it is the time that parents are preparing and budgeting for back to school expenditure. As the principal objective of the scheme is to assist eligible families with the extra costs when their children start school each autumn, the most practical time to implement the scheme is in the lead up to each new academic year. In dealing with the large volume of applications received the Health Service Executive deploys additional staffing resources for the duration of the scheme during the June to September period. Where applications are made after the September deadline, the Health Service Executive has discretion to pay an Exceptional Needs Payment (ENP) to assist claimants with back to school expenditure.
Current indications are that about 84,000 families with approximately 172,000 children will benefit from the scheme this year at a cost of €25.4m. This is an increase on the 2005 figures when some 76,166 families with 157,254 children benefited at a cost of €16.7m. This can be mainly attributed to improvements in income disregards introduced this year, and the significant level of publicity given to this scheme in the media and through the other information services operated by my Department.
Extending the deadline for applications for back to school clothing and footwear allowance is not necessary given the fact that exceptional needs payments are paid out in the case of late BSCFA applications, where appropriate. Accordingly, at this stage, I have no plans to extend the period of application beyond September, I will continue to keep it under review.
129 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the average wait to process a appeal with the Social Welfare Appeals Office; if his attention has been drawn to the financial hardship such delays cause the families involved; the steps which he is taking to reduce the backlog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40975/06]
The average length of time taken to deal with all appeals (both summary and oral) by the Social Welfare Appeals Office in 2005 was 20 weeks. If allowance is made for the 25% most protracted cases, the average falls to 13 weeks.
The social welfare appeals process is a quasi-judicial process and it is necessary for the Appeals officer to be satisfied that he/she has all the facts before making a decision on a case. Furthermore, the Appeals officer must give the person making the appeal and the Deciding Officer the opportunity to make their views known on the facts of the appeal.
My Department introduced a right of review in 2002 to ensure that customers who received adverse decisions could have them reviewed in the light of any new evidence they brought forward. Customers whose claims are disallowed or who are otherwise dissatisfied with a decision are advised that they should bring any new facts or evidence to the attention of the Deciding Officer in the first instance for re-examination and, if appropriate, a revised decision. They are informed that this right is in addition to their right of appeal. The right of appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office remains an option if the review by the Deciding Officer is not fruitful.
The review process is speedier than the appeals process and in 2005, 3,300 cases were disposed of by way of review.
Any person who is unable to meet their needs and those of their dependants may apply for Supplementary Welfare Allowance from the Health Service Executive. If a person is refused Supplementary Allowance they also, through the Health Service Executive, have a right to appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. These appeals are given priority.
Improving processing times remains a major objective of the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
However, it is necessary at all times to ensure that progress in this regard is achieved in a manner which is not in conflict with the demands of justice and the requirement that every appeal be fully investigated and examined on all its merits.
130 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a farm assist appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will be dealt with by the Social Welfare Appeals Office; if he is satisfied with the delay in processing this appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40974/06]
The person concerned applied for farm assist from 16 September 2005. Her means were assessed at Euro 133.00 per week derived from spouse's self-employment and income from land and accordingly the Deciding Officer awarded farm assist at the rate of Euro 58.00 per week.
An appeal against this decision was received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 21 June 2006 and the Appeals Officer considers that an oral hearing is necessary in the case. This will be arranged as soon as possible.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office receives in the region of 14,000 appeals each year. Every effort is made to treat these appeals in a fair and equitable manner and within this context to have the appeal dealt with as quickly as possible. Improving processing times remains a major objective of the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
However, it is necessary at all times to ensure that progress in this regard is achieved in a manner which is not in conflict with the demands of justice and the requirement that every appeal be fully investigated and examined on all its merits.
Under Social Welfare Legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
131 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if an upper age limit exists regarding eligibility for the back to education allowance scheme; his plans to remove same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40994/06]
The back to education allowance is a second chance education opportunities scheme designed to encourage and facilitate people on certain social welfare payments to improve their skills and qualifications and, therefore, their prospects of returning to the active work force.
To qualify for participation an applicant must, inter alia, be in receipt of a relevant social welfare payment and at least 21 years of age prior to commencing an approved course of study. Persons in receipt of disability related payments may access the scheme at 18 years of age. Similarly, lone parents and persons in receipt of unemployment payments can qualify at 18 years of age provided they are out of formal education for at least 2 years. A list of the qualifying Social Welfare payments is set out in the following tabular statement. There is no upper age limit for this scheme.
To qualify for the Back-To-Education Allowance, a person must be in receipt of one of the following Payments
Job Seekers Allowance
Farm Assist
One Parent Family Payment
Deserted Wife's Allowance
Non Contributory State Pension
Widows/Widowers Contributory Pension
Prisoners Wife's Allowance
Disability Allowance
Blind Pension
Invalidity Pension
Unemployability Supplement
Carer's Allowance
Illness Benefit (in receipt of for at least 3 years).
132 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if the Pensions Board has plans to review whether pension schemes offered to directors and to trustees of pension schemes are offered on terms that are materially preferential to the arrangements available to the employees and members of schemes generally in view of a growing perception that some firms and trustees may be open to undue influence in certain circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40996/06]
133 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to require directors and trustees of pension schemes not to belong to a scheme operated or administered by the firms and agencies responsible for the schemes operated on behalf of their employees or scheme members. [40997/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 132 and 133 together.
Trustees have the main responsibility for the administration of occupational pension schemes and compliance with the statutory requirements that apply to these schemes. In discharging these duties trustees must act in the best interests of beneficiaries in accordance with the Pensions Act 1990 (as amended) and the trust deeds under which schemes operate.
The Pensions Board has been consulted in relation to the scenario outlined by the Deputy in his questions and it is not aware of any such practices in the pensions industry. However, if the Deputy can supply details of specific instances where this may have occurred, the matter will be fully investigated by the Board and action taken, where considered necessary.
134 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the properties his Department or bodies in his Department has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41021/06]
I wish to advise the Deputy that this matter is the responsibility of the Office of Public Works, which deals with matters relating to leases on properties.
135 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if and when an exceptional needs payment will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare. [41052/06]
Under the terms of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive, an exceptional needs payment (ENP) may be made to help meet an essential, once-off cost which the applicant is unable to meet out of his/her own resources. There is no automatic entitlement to this payment. Each application is determined by the Executive based on the particular circumstances of the case. Eligible people would normally be in receipt of a social welfare or health service executive payment.
In the case of the person concerned, the Dublin / Mid-Leinster Area of the Executive have advised that, while a number of ENPs have been made in the last year, they currently have no request for an exceptional needs payments from him. It is open to the person concerned to again approach the Executive should he wish to make an application for such a payment.
136 Mr. English asked the Minister for Transport his plans to speed up the delivery of the critical rail link from Pace to Navan; if this project will be delivered sooner than 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40965/06]
137 Mr. English asked the Minister for Transport the amount of money spent to date by his Department specifically on the Pace to Navan section of the proposed rail line; if he will provide a breakdown on this amount; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40970/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 136 and 137 together.
The planning and design of the Navan Rail Link is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance. I understand that the old Navan rail line will be re-opened in two phases with the first phase running off the Maynooth line, at Clonsilla, to the M3 interchange at Pace, near Dunboyne. The current position regarding this phase is that detailed design work is underway and Iarnród Éireann expect to submit a Railway Order application in 2007 for statutory approval to enable the railway upgrade works to proceed with a view to completion of Phase 1 in 2009 as provided for in Transport 21.
Under Phase 2 it is proposed to extend the rail line to Navan within the period of Transport 21. I am advised by Iarnród Éireann that it is about to appoint consultants to undertake a scoping study on the this Phase (Pace to Navan). The terms of reference have been agreed with Meath County Council. I understand that there has been no expenditure to date on Phase 2.
138 Mr. English asked the Minister for Transport the pass and fail rate for each NCT centre in the State for each of the years 2003 to 2005 and to date in 2006 in tabular form. [40971/06]
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority is responsible for the operation of the national car testing service.
139 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport if the bus regulator due to be established under the proposed new Dublin Transport Authority will have the powers to direct Dublin Bus to amend existing bus routes and service levels on such routes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41006/06]
As I indicated in my Press Statement of 28th September last, the Government has decided that the regulation of the bus market and future decisions on the allocation of all public subsidies for bus services in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) will be taken by the new Dublin Transport Authority.
It is proposed that the Dublin Transport Authority will have responsibility for contracting with all operators in the Dublin market, including Dublin Bus. It will also be responsible for monitoring the quality and cost of service by all operators and ensuring value for money on all routes.
I envisage that the Dublin Transport Authority will be empowered to regulate public transport so as to ensure there is an efficient and integrated public transport network in the GDA which is responsive to public needs. This will involve organising the allocation of bus routes to operators in such a way as to maximise their prospect of efficient operation and the coherent development of the bus network.
Drafting of the Dublin Transport Authority Bill, which will set out the Authority's detailed powers in this regard, is at an advanced stage and the Bill will be published shortly.
140 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport the properties his Department or bodies in his Department has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41022/06]
The Office of Public Works provides all the principal offices premises occupied by my Department. Questions relating to leases and rent paid for those premises are a matter for that Office.
Arrangements regarding property leases taken by all other State bodies under the aegis of my Department are considered to be day-to-day operational matters for the organisations concerned and the details are not held within the Department.
The Irish Coast Guard, which is part of my Department, directly leases properties, the details of which are outlined in the table below.
|
Location of property |
Name of Company/Person |
Conditions of Lease |
Current Rent |
Upward rental clause |
|
€ |
||||
|
Galley Head, Co Cork |
Commissioners of Irish Lights (CIL) |
Radio mast on lands; IRCG (Irish Coast Guard) pay rent by the quarter under an open-ended agreement |
2000 p.a |
In line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) |
|
Mizen Head, Co. Cork |
Mr Patrick Downey |
Lease of property for Radio mast on lands Lease 1 (4/3/00) rent and CPI on 1 May and 1 November Lease 2 (4/10/200) rent and CPI on 1 May |
Lease 1 — 1,464 twice p.a. Lease 2 — 750 p.a. |
in line with CPI |
|
Cashelgarren Co. Sligo |
Eircom |
From 04/10/2002 for 4 years and 11 months for radio mast |
11,495 p.a. |
in line with CPI |
|
Mine Head Co. Waterford |
Irish Lights, |
Open ended lease; rent paid twice annually for radio mast |
7,592.40 p.a. |
in line with CPI |
|
Ballyhearney, Valentia Co. Kerry |
Ms Mary O’Driscoll |
lease dated 21/11/1985 for 25 years for Radio Link Building |
634.87 p.a. |
Reviewed every 5 years |
|
Malin Head Co. Donegal |
Callaghan family |
Lease for 10 years from 16/5/2004 for radio mast |
5,000 p.a. |
n/a |
|
Derrybrien, Co. Galway (on River Shannon) |
Celcom, Oranmore, Co. Galway |
No formal lease; rent paid until mid 2003 |
2,000 p.a. |
Cancelled mid -2003 |
|
Tonabrucky, Co. Galway |
Celcom, Oranmore, Co. Galway |
21/02/2003 for 5 years for radio mast |
6,145.40 p.a. |
n/a |
|
Clarmount Cairn, Ravensdale Co. Louth |
RTE Commercial Enterprises |
Ongoing Lease for Radio mast |
22,151.66 p.a. |
n/a |
|
Moydow, Co. Roscommon |
Celcom, Oranmore, Co. Galway |
01/04/2003 for 5 years for radio mast |
6,000 p.a. |
in line with CPI |
|
Wicklow Head |
Commissioners of Irish Lights |
Radio mast on lands: Open ended agreement |
732.38 p.a. |
in line with CPI |
|
Cregg Mountain, Co. Galway |
RTE Commercial Enterprises |
Ongoing lease for Radio mast |
14,260 p.a. |
n/a |
|
Glencolumbcille Co. Donegal |
RTE Commercial Enterprises |
Ongoing lease for Radio mast |
22,232 p.a. |
n/a |
|
Teddy Lavelle’s Garage, Cashel, Co. Mayo |
Mr Teddy Lavelle |
Agreement to rent premises for Achill Coast Guard twice annually |
3,302 p.a. |
n/a |
|
Costelloe Bay, Co. Galway |
Údarás na Gaeltachta |
Agreement to rent premises for Costello Bay Coast Guard Unit twice annually |
4,334.24 p.a. |
n/a |
|
Westport, Co Mayo |
Westport Port & Harbour Authority |
Agreement to rent premises for Achill Coast Guard Unit on a monthly basis |
2,599.92 p.a. |
n/a |
|
Geokaun, Valentia, Co. Kerry |
Muiris & Bernadette O’ Donoghue |
Site access agreement for 10 years from 09/11/2005 |
4,000 p.a. |
in line with CPI |
141 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason for the delay in issuing a single farm payment to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; the steps required to address the problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40914/06]
The person named has been contacted by the Single Payment Unit of my Department and asked to supply documentation in relation to rental agreements and entitlement to commonage lands declared by him on his Single Payment application. My Department cannot process the application any further until a reply is received from the person named.
142 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has not received their REP scheme payment on the additional land they purchased in 2005 in view of the fact that they submitted all the necessary paperwork of this land as soon as it was possible to do so; and when they will be granted payment on this land. [40922/06]
The person named submitted an amended plan with the extra land included. It was submitted late, but in any case it would not have been acceptable because the extra land was more than 2 hectares and therefore a new plan, and not an amended plan, would have been required. Although the extra land is not eligible for payment in the absence of a new plan, the person named has received full payment on the land included in his original plan.
143 Mr. English asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of marts that have ceased operating in each of the years 2002 to 2006 inclusive; the county in which each mart has closed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40963/06]
144 Mr. English asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of marts that have commenced operating in each of the years 2002 to 2006 inclusive; the county in which each such mart is situated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40964/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 143 and 144 together.
My Department's records indicate that between 2002 and 2006 a total of 14 livestock marts ceased trading in Cork, Donegal, Kildare, Laois, Mayo, Tipperary, Westmeath and Wicklow. During the same period one livestock mart commenced trading in Roscommon.
145 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the contacts she has had with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government regarding the effects of IPPC licensing on poultry producers; if her Department has an estimate of the number of poultry producers that will be forced out of business by the implementation of this increased cost; the proposals she has to reduce the increased costs for poultry producers associated with IPPC licensing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40998/06]
The level of IPPC fees is a matter for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and for the Environmental Protection Agency who administer the scheme. Officials from my Department recently met the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and have also been in contact with the Environmental Protection Agency, with a view to outlining the economic difficulties being experienced by the poultry sector. My aim on this matter is to ensure that the application of the IPPC licensing laws is done in a way which takes full account of the pressures being experienced by the poultry sector.
146 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 384 of 22 November 2006, the situation in respect of the person (details supplied) in County Cork; the number of entitlements under the 2005 single payment scheme national reserve; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40999/06]
As indicated in my earlier reply to Parliamentary Question No. 384 of 22 November 2006, the person named was deemed successful under Category A of the 2005 Single Payment Scheme National Reserve. Category A caters for farmers who inherited land or received land free of charge or for a nominal sum from a farmer who had retired or died by 16 May, 2005 and who had leased out his/her holding to a third party during the reference period 2000 to 2002.
Successful applicants under Category A of the National Reserve are allocated a number of payment entitlements representing the number of hectares of land acquired which were leased out by the original owner to a 3rd party during the reference period. The land in question must also have been declared by the applicant on the 2005 Single Payment application form and be free of entitlements. The person named inherited a total of 47.86 hectares of land from three different people. Initial examination of her application indicated that all 47.86 hectares had been leased out by the original owners to third parties during the reference period and the person named was notified to this effect on 14th April 2006.
However, subsequent examination of the file revealed that one of the three parcels of land had in fact been inherited by the person named prior to the reference years and appears to have been leased out directly by the person named. Therefore, such lands do not qualify for an allocation from the National Reserve. It was also noted that the remaining inherited land was not leased out to a third party during all of the reference period. Therefore, allocation was based on a pro rata basis amounting to an allocation of 20.32 entitlements.
A formal letter, dated 20th November 2006, outlines my Department's revised decision on the National Reserve application from the person named. The person named may wish to contact the National Reserve Section of my Department directly to discuss the allocation. The person named also has the opportunity to appeal the decision to the Independent Appeals Committee setting out the facts and contentions on which she relies in support of her appeal. An appeals application form is available from any of my Department's offices or on the Department's website at www.agriculture.gov.ie.
147 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the properties her Department or bodies in her Department has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41009/06]
The Office of Public Works has responsibility with regard to the provision of office accommodation for my Department's staff throughout the country. The day-to-day activities of the state bodies and agencies under the aegis of the Department, including leasing of accommodation, are the responsibility of the Boards concerned.
148 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she has received correspondence from people who are concerned regarding the future of national hunt breeding stock, in particular where there are concerns in relation to stallions who have wind problems and the inheritability of same; if, in this context, she is having same analysed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41053/06]
I have received correspondence from individuals who have concerns in relation to inheritable wind disease in National Hunt stallions. Under the provisions of The European Communities (Equine Stud-Book and Competition) Regulations 2004, SI 399 of 2004, I am empowered to grant approval to a person, an international association or organisation for the purposes of maintaining a stud-book subject to compliance with the requirements of the relevant legislation in force. Weatherbys Ireland GSB Limited is the organisation approved to maintain the Thoroughbred studbook in which National Hunt stallions in Ireland are registered. The legislation provides for keepers of approved stud-books to divide the main section of their stud-book into classes according to the animal's merits. Therefore, approved studbooks can choose to classify animals in their studbook according to their merits' (such as the inheritance of wind disease) in order to discourage the breeding of animals with a genetic defect. I do not propose to interfere in the day to day business of approved stud book keeping organisations.
149 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will grant a request for school transport from Drogheda to Cootehill for a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40905/06]
Officials in my Department's School Transport Section have discussed this case with the parent of the pupil referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied. My Department will write to the parents communicating a decision, as soon as possible.
150 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a teacher has not been appointed as a replacement in a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if he will reconsider the position; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40906/06]
The recruitment and appointment of teachers to fill teaching vacancies that arise in the Vocational Education Committee (VEC) sector is a matter for the relevant VEC.
151 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will take action regarding the notations that are currently being put on pupils’ leaving and junior certificates, who have dyslexia, indicating their grading was subjected to their disability. [40923/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, this Government has shown an unrivalled commitment to ensuring that children and young people with special needs get the extra support they need in order to reach their full potential at school. We have dramatically expanded investment in special education in recent years and we have improved access to the state examinations for young people with special needs.
A range of accommodations are provided to enable students with disabilities to access the Certificate examinations. For example enlarged print, Braille translation, modified questions, use of a scribe, a reader, a personal assistant, a tape recorder or word processor, may be allowed depending on needs.
The scheme was expanded in 2000 following the report of an Expert Advisory Group, to provide opportunities for exemptions where a candidate was not in a position to demonstrate achievement in a core area of assessment. In keeping with the advice of the Expert Advisory Group, a system of annotation was applied to any case where a student was exempt from a core area of assessment, or where the mode of assessment used had the same effect.
This change, for example, enabled a hearing impaired student to be exempt for the first time from the aural component of language subjects. His/her marks on the balance of the examination would be grossed up proportionately towards 100%, and the certificate would include a note to the effect that all elements of the subject were assessed except the aural component. Spelling and grammar waivers in language subjects were provided to cater for students with dyslexia on a similar basis, with annotation of the certificates.
The aim of these changes was to facilitate the operation of a responsive and flexible system which enables all candidates to demonstrate their achievements, while preserving the integrity and fairness of the exams by ensuring that special arrangements are operated in a transparent manner.
The introduction of the expanded scheme was seen as important in widening access and promoting the optimum participation for students with disabilities. Since then the number of students availing of accommodations in the certificate examinations has grown dramatically. 4,438 accommodations were granted in 2002, including 39 component exemptions and 1,945 spelling and grammar waivers. By 2006, this number had increased to 12,136 accommodations, including 987 component exemptions, and 5,450 spelling and grammar waivers.
An annotation only applies where a core element of assessment in a particular subject is not assessed. This is used to ensure fairness and integrity vis a vis other students who have been assessed in these components, and in order not to mislead the end user of the certificate.
In relation to the Equality Tribunal's recent findings, the legal position is that they must either be implemented in full or appealed within the specified timeframe under the Equal Status Act 2002. My Department has examined the findings and is concerned both that the widening of access through the use if exemptions coupled with annotations has not been fully understood in this case and that the fundamental nature of the accommodations being provided has been questioned. It has therefore been decided to appeal the findings.
I have also asked the State Examinations Commission to re-examine policy and practice in this area. I am determined to ensure that our system continues to evolve in line with best practice, promoting high standards of quality and integrity, while ensuring access, participation and benefit for all our students.
Given that this case is to be appealed to the Circuit Court, it is not appropriate that I make any further comment in the matter.
152 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will take urgent measures to reduce class sizes at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 15 as some classes have over 33 students. [40936/06]
The Deputy will be aware that the staffing schedule for primary schools is structured to ensure that all primary schools will operate to an average mainstream class size of 28 pupils. Posts allocated on the basis of this schedule are specifically for mainstream classes and should be deployed accordingly. School authorities are requested to ensure that the number of pupils in any class is kept as low as possible, taking all relevant contextual factors into account (e.g. classroom accommodation, fluctuating enrolment). In particular, school authorities should ensure that there is an equitable distribution of pupils in mainstream classes and that the differential between the largest and smallest classes is kept to a minimum.
The staffing of the school referred to by the Deputy for the current school year is a Principal, 23 mainstream class teachers, based on an enrolment of 627 pupils on 30th September, 2005. However, the enrolment figure submitted by the Board of Management for the 30th September, 2006 is 686 pupils. On the basis of that figure, the school was granted 2 Developing School Posts for the 2006/07 school year, bringing to 25 the number of mainstream class teachers. The school also has 4 Permanent Learning Support/Resource teachers, 1 Temporary Resource Teacher for Travellers and 3 Temporary Language Support Teachers.
As the Deputy will be aware, there are now no less than 4,000 extra teachers in our primary schools, compared with 2002. Furthermore, there are nearly 7,000 more primary teachers than there were in 1997. This represents the largest increase in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education.
The average class size in our primary schools is 24 and there is now one teacher for 17 pupils at primary level, including resource teachers etc. The number of children in large classes has been significantly reduced. When this Government first came into office, there were more than 52,000 children in classes of 35 and over — five times the number that there were in the last school year. There were also more than 1,900 children in classes of 40 and over — compared to just over 200 in 05/06.
While I appreciate the need to make further progress in reducing class size, it should be acknowledged just how much has been achieved. In recent years, priority has rightly been given to providing extra support for children with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and those that need help with their English.
Special education provision in particular has undergone a level of expansion the extent of which nobody could have predicted a few years ago and this was only right. If we had put all 4,000 of the teachers hired since 2002 into classroom teaching, our average class size would be a lot smaller than it is now. But we would have done a great disservice to those children who need extra help the most. I am sure the Deputy would accept that we have taken the right approach.
Now that children with special needs are finally getting the support they deserve, we are providing extra teachers this year and next specifically to reduce class sizes, through a reduction in the mainstream staffing schedule.
This has meant that, whereas all primary schools were staffed on a general rule of at least one classroom teacher for every 29 children in the 05/06 school year, in the current school year there is a general rule of at least one teacher for every 28 children. Of course, schools with only one or two teachers have much lower staffing ratios than that — with two teachers for just 12 pupils in some cases and so on — but the general rule is that there is at least one classroom teacher for every 28 children in the school. Next year, we are committed to hiring even more extra teachers in order to reduce this to a general rule of at least one teacher for every 27 children.
We also acted this year to specifically address the needs of growing schools by making it easier to qualify for a developing school post. Over 280 such posts were sanctioned for the 2006/07 school year, compared to 170 in 2005/06. This change specifically addressed the needs of schools which are seeing large increases in their enrolments year on year.
The improvements we have made in school staffing in recent years are absolutely unparalleled. But we are determined to go even further, and so the 2007 Estimates include provision for another 800 primary teachers. About 500 of these will be classroom teachers, which includes our commitment to reduce class sizes.
I assure the Deputy that we will continue to prioritise further improvements in school staffing going forward. We will also continue our focus on measures to improve the quality of education in our primary schools to ensure that increased resources lead to better outcomes for our children.
153 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science when the Saplings schools concept or project status will be accepted and this concept of teaching autistic children be given permanent status; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40944/06]
154 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department funded programmes for parents with autistic children where the PECS programme was to be applied; the amount of funding dedicated to such programmes; the number of parents that attended; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40945/06]
155 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if funding has been withdrawn from support groups who were seeking training for parents of autistic children prior to the children entering or having school placements; if she will reassess such applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40946/06]
156 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is considering capital allocation funding for schools (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40947/06]
166 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department provides grants or funding for the provision of occupational therapy equipment for children in a school (details supplied) in County Kildare suffering from autism; the mechanism available to applicants to make applications if such grants are available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41067/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 153 to 156, inclusive, and 166 together.
My Department's 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 supports a multi-skills approach in regard to the education of children with autism where a range of teaching methods are available e.g. Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH), ABA (Applied Behavioural Analysis), Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS).
The Deputy may be familiar with the variety of current provision in this regard, which includes pre-school classes for children with autism, special classes for children with autism attached to special schools and mainstream schools, special classes for Asperger's syndrome plus a range of supports for pupils with autism integrated in mainstream classes.
My Department also funds a pilot scheme for 12 centres where ABA is the exclusive approach. Sanction has been given for 14 centres under the scheme and two have yet to open. The Saplings centre referred to by the Deputy is funded under this scheme.
My Department's Inspectorate carried out an Evaluation of Educational Provision for Children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD) This inspectorate report describes an evaluation of the education that is provided for children with ASD in a variety of settings nationwide. The elements of good practice identified during the evaluation process and in the literature review form the basis for the report's recommendations which will make a positive contribution to policy development and to the continuing improvement in the quality of education that is available to children with ASD including the future of the pilot scheme.
My Department supports the training and professional development of staff working with children with special educational needs through the Special Education Support Service (SESS) which was established in 2003. The service as appropriate, consolidates co-ordinates, develops and delivers a range of professional development initiatives and support structures for school personnel working with students with special educational needs in a variety of educational settings. Generally this support is provided by direct training input or sanction for school staff to attend courses recognised and funded through the SESS.
As part of its response to the growing demand from teachers for support and training, the SESS is currently developing teams of trainers to deliver training in four specific areas, one of which is Autism. This training will be delivered locally through the Education Centre network and/or through whole-staff in-school support. School Authorities will continue to work with parents to ensure a consistent home/school approach to the education of children with autism.
While funding had been previously been made available to parents to attend certain courses on an ad hoc basis, my Department is currently reviewing its position in this regard and a decision in relation to future funding of parental courses will be considered in the context of this review.
I wish to advise the Deputy that responsibility for the provision of occupational therapy services rests with the Health Service Executive.
157 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science when teachers at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare will be trained in the PECS concept of teaching; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40948/06]
The Special Education Support Service (SESS), which was established in September 2003. This service consolidates, co-ordinates, develops and delivers a range of professional development initiatives and support structures for school personnel working with students with special educational needs in a variety of educational settings. These settings include mainstream primary and post-primary schools, special schools and special classes.
As part of this work, the SESS provides training in a number of specialised areas such as Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH) and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).
Currently, the SESS is giving priority to mainstream schools with Autism Units and Autism Classes in Special Schools for training in PECS. However, under the SESS Local Initiatives Scheme all teachers in schools can apply for funding to attend a PECS course. Under the terms of this scheme schools and /or individual teachers request assistance to the SESS for identified professional development needs in relation to special education. Support from the SESS can be financial, professional and/or advisory in nature.
The SESS are funding places on a PECS course in Dublin on December 5th and 6th next. Schools with Autism Units/Classes in the Dublin/Kildare area have been offered places.
The Educate Together School in Newbridge, Co. Kildare has not made an application for training in the PECS concept of teaching. However, the school should be advised that application forms are available on the SESS website (www.sess.ie) or through direct contact with SESS at 1850 200 884 or by e-mail at info@sess.ie.
158 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of the information technology grant awarded to each primary school in County Meath for each of the years 2003, 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006 in tabular form. [40961/06]
The ICT in Schools Programme commenced in 1998 following the publication of Schools IT2000. The objective of the Programme is to ensure that all students have the opportunity to achieve computer literacy and to acquire the necessary skills for participation in the Information Society. By the end of last year, over €170m was invested in the Programme since its commencement including some €114m in Capital supports to schools for the purchase of ICT equipment and the provision of internal computer networks.
The information sought by the Deputy in relation to County Meath is not readily available.
The major focus for my Department under the ICT in Schools Programme at the moment is the roll-out of broadband connectivity to all recognised schools. This project is being undertaken in partnership with industry, following the establishment of a three year €18m joint Government/ IBEC — TIF (Telecommunications and Internet Federation) Fund to provide local connectivity at school level. 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 (NCTE) to assist schools with advice and information relating to the roll-out and ongoing use of their broadband connectivity within the schools network. The overall costs of the Schools Broadband Access Programme, including the initial set-up and ongoing costs over the three years, are in the region of €30m.
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.
159 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of pupils enrolled in each primary school in County Meath; the number of teachers for same; and if she will present the information in tabular form. [40962/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available in my Department and would take an inordinate amount of administrative time to compile.
160 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Education and Science the policy on recreational space per pupil in new and existing schools; if sanction from her Department is required to reduce such space for parking; and the policy on parking for teachers working in pay parking areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40978/06]
I can assure the Deputy that my Department fully recognises the crucial role of physical exercise within the school environment and continues to respond to the need to improve sporting facilities and in particular, indoor facilities. This Government is determined to ensure that every child is educated in a suitable and comfortable environment. Since 1997, great advances have been made in transforming school accommodation throughout the country, through an investment of €3 billion. This has funded over 7,800 individual school projects in the last seven years alone. Major capital projects at both primary and second level schools include the provision of adequate sporting facilities, providing that the site is of sufficient size — or where a new school on a greenfield site is being built. This extends to the provision of both PE halls/GP areas and the provision of hard play areas and where site conditions allow playing pitches.
A comprehensive equipment schedule is included in the funding package for such facilities, ranging from table-tennis sets to netball and indoor soccer equipment.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that earlier this month I announced a special €6.5m package for primary schools to renew PE equipment. This funding has issued to all 3,200 primary schools. Under the package, every school received €2,000 towards the cost of replacing and upgrading PE equipment in their school.
This grant was issued, as a once-off measure, and will mean that schools can replace older equipment such as goalposts, PE mats, benches etc. The modern equipment which can be purchased will help facilitate PE and sporting activities in schools, which everyone recognises is a very important aspect of school life.
This funding package is being made as part of this Government's continued commitment to modernise facilities in schools throughout the country. I expect to announce a PE equipment grant for post-primary schools in the coming months.
In addition, since 2000 my Department has provided in excess of €5.5m in grant-aid to all primary schools to facilitate the provision of coaching or mentoring in connection with physical education or to purchase resource materials associated with the provision of physical education.
I would, however, point out that schools may use their general capitation funding to support the implementation of curricula including Physical Education. Since 1997 the standard rate of capitation grant at primary level has been increased from €57.14 per pupil to €145.58 with effect from 1st January, 2006. From 1st January next the standard per capita grant will be increased by a further €18 per pupil bringing the overall capitation grant per pupil at primary level to €163.58. This will represent an increase of 186% in the standard rate of capitation grant since 1997.
Second-level schools have also 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. 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.
Major capital projects at both primary and second level schools require the provision of adequate car parking facilities as part of the building project, providing that the site is of sufficient size — or where a new school on a greenfield site is being built.
In general, individual school authorities are responsible, in the first instance, for ensuring the safety and welfare of children and others in their care, including traffic management measures. My Department is prepared to consider applications from school authorities for grant-aid towards improving safety arrangements, including car parking, inside the vested area of the school, but would require that the integrity of the outdoor play area be safeguarded in so far as is possible. The Deputy will appreciate that, particularly in urban areas where the size of school site may be limited, it may not be possible to adequately facilitate both playing facilities and car parking to the extent that it can be done with a larger site.
Issues relating to traffic safety, pay car parking etc. outside of school grounds are the responsibility of the relevant Local Authority. Grant-aid is not available for works outside the vested area of the school.
161 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Education and Science the policy on the use of mobile phones by teachers and pupils in primary schools. [40979/06]
In accordance with the Education Act, 1998, individual school authorities are responsible for the day-to-day running of schools. It is a matter for each school authority to establish rules on what is and is not acceptable for students and teachers to do while on the school premises, provided that those rules are lawful, fair and reasonable.
The National Centre for Technology in Education, in its Advice Sheet for schools on mobile phones, recommends that the management of mobile phone use should be incorporated into the school's ICT plan and acceptable use policy.
162 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon; if she will address the issues raised; the present position on implementing new changes to the format of the leaving certificate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40988/06]
I understand that a letter was received in my office from the person referred to by the Deputy regarding the format of the Leaving Certificate Examination.
The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations, including organising the holding of examinations and issuing the results of examinations.
The issues raised in the correspondence relate to the need for a spread of assessment points, undue demand on students in the June examinations, and the scope for earlier results and repeat examinations.
A range of components in the Leaving Certificate examinations already take place prior to June. For example, course work in Home Economics Scientific and Social is required to be completed by November. The Engineering project is required to be completed in March. The oral examinations are completed in April, in addition to the LCVP Link Modules portfolio, the practical course work elements of Religion, History and Geography, Agricultural Science, and Agricultural Economics, elective course work in Home Economics, the practical component of Music and the Construction Studies Project. The practical examination in Engineering, Construction, Art and the elective in composing in Music take place in May as well as the written examination for the LCVP Link Modules.
The Leaving Certificate Applied programme also provides for completion of assessment components throughout the cycle.
I am acutely aware of the importance of ensuring a spread of assessment points, and of the need to move away from the heavy demand placed on students in the June terminal examinations. I have asked the State Examinations Commission to discuss this issue with the partners in education to see how it might best be addressed. The issue is also being progressed in the context of the reforms proposed by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment in regard to subjects in senior cycle. These will provide for the embedding of key skills, a strengthening of ICT, practical project and portfolio work, and the inclusion of a second assessment component in subjects where this does not exist at present, providing for a spread of assessment points.
I have been advised that there is little scope for the earlier issue of results or for repeat examinations given the scale of the Leaving Certificate and the nature of the examinations which are centrally set and externally marked. There were over 54,000 candidates in the 2006 Leaving Certificate examinations. The Junior and Leaving Certificate examinations combined involve over 114,000 candidates, almost 1 million grades and 2 million test items.
163 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the position on an application to her Department for funding under the devolved grant scheme for smaller schools for a school (details supplied) in County Wexford; if she will take action regarding this application as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41000/06]
The school to which the Deputy refers has submitted an application for funding under the Small Schools Scheme 2007. Officials in my Department are assessing all applications received under this scheme and I will publish the list of successful applicants as soon as the assessment process is complete.
164 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers, resource teachers, special needs assistants and other teaching staff employed in each primary and each secondary school in Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41054/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available in my Department. The compilation of this information would involve an inordinate amount of staff time.
165 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the fact that for the school year 2006 to 2007, her Department gave its approval for the enrolment of one pupil in a school (details supplied) who had enrolled in another school in good faith, parents are to understand that her Department will give the same approval for the rest of the students who also enrolled in another school in good faith, expecting to progress to the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41055/06]
As an exceptional measure, the Department decided that a pupil from a primary school outside the catchment area to which the Deputy refers would be allowed to enrol in the post primary school in question for the 2006-2007 school year. As the Deputy points out, this decision was taken because the pupil concerned had an expectation that s/he would be enrolling in the school and did not have sufficient notice to secure an alternative placement. There can be no doubt that at this early stage in the current school year, pupils have adequate notice to obtain placements in their own catchment areas for the 2007-2008 school year. In the circumstances, the Department does not intend to repeat the exception made this year.
167 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Defence the properties his Department, or bodies in his Department, has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41013/06]
The property letting agreements entered into by the Department since 1 January, 2003 to date are as set out in the following table:
|
Property |
Company/ Person |
Annual Rent |
Term |
Rent Review Clause |
|
Captain Weafer Hall, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford (Part-time use) |
Committee, Captain Weafer Hall |
€20 per occasion of use |
3 years from 01/01/2003 |
None |
|
Community Hall, Courtnacuddy, Co. Wexford (Part-time use) |
Secretary, Community Hall |
€634.87 |
3 years from 01/02/2003 |
None |
|
An Carraig, Cemetery Road,Sligo |
Ms. M. Laffey |
€14,400 |
2 years from 01/04/2003 |
None |
|
No 1 The Green, Ocean Links, Strandhill, Co. Sligo |
Mr. S. Flanagan |
€14,400 |
2 years from 18/04/2003. |
None |
|
Shore Road, Strandhill,Co. Sligo |
Mr. N. Byrne |
€14,400 |
2 years from 28/04/2003 |
None |
|
GAA Club, Coachford, Co. Cork (Part-time use) |
Aghabullogue GAA Club |
€1,000 |
5 years from 01/01/04 |
None |
|
Unit, Kilcruttin Centre, Tullamore, Co. Offaly |
Flanagan Properties Ltd |
€5,548.75 |
4 years 9 months from 01/09/2004 |
Rent fixed for 3 yrs and increased for remaining 1 year 9 months by the cumulative percentage increase in Consumer Price Index |
|
Community Hall, Pallas Green, Co. Limerick (Part-time use) |
Pallas Green Community Council |
€8 per night |
Yearly from 17/06/2004 |
None |
|
1 Main Street, Ballyconnell, Co. Cavan |
Ms G. Reilly |
€12,500 |
Yearly from 01/12/2004. |
None |
|
Scoil Mhuire, Trim, Co. Meath (Part-time use) |
School Principal |
€1,000 |
Yearly from 01/05/2005 |
None |
|
Hut Site, Tipperary Town (Part-time use) |
Rev Archdeacon M. McGrath PP |
€500 |
2 years from 01/01/05 |
None |
|
No 8 Park Lane, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co. Leitrim |
B.&M. Reynolds |
€14,600 |
4 years 9 months from 01/07/2005 |
None |
|
The Old School, Cushinstown, Co. Wexford (Part-time use) |
Cushinstown, Finance Committee |
€400.00 |
Year to Yearfrom 1/01/06 |
None |
|
Scout Hall, Esmonde Street, Gorey, Co. Wexford (Part-time use) |
Gorey Scout Group |
€1,900 |
1 year from 04/01/2006 |
None |
|
GAA Club, Millstreet, Co. Cork (Part-time use) |
Millstreet GAA Club |
€40 per occasion of use |
1 year from 07/02/2006 |
None |
|
Unit 12 B, Cleveragh Business Centre, Sligo |
F. Keaveny |
€12,500 |
10 years from 01/06/2006 |
Rent Review after 5 years |
|
Arklow Community College, Arklow, Co. Wicklow (Part-time use) |
School Principal |
€20 per week. |
1 year from 24/09/06 |
None |
168 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if legislation on the control of animals has any application with regard to wild cats in urban area; if not, the avenue open to residents who are concerned about large number of cats invading their gardens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40904/06]
Certain provisions of the Control of Dogs Act 1986 may be extended, by regulations, to other species of domesticated animals, including cats. In the absence of reliable data regarding the number of wild or feral cats, and of appropriate solutions, it is not proposed to place an additional responsibility on local authorities that might dilute their control efforts in relation to dangerous and stray dogs which are generally viewed as presenting greater problems than feral cats. However, where a local authority considers it appropriate it may assist a body which is endeavouring to reduce, in a humane manner, the problems caused by feral cats. I understand that a number of local authorities have provided assistance to such bodies in recent years.
169 Ms McManus asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he received correspondence from two members of Wicklow County Council dated 12 November 2006 relating to the appointment of a public relations consultant; the response he is making to the concerns raised in this correspondence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40937/06]
This correspondence referred to has been received in my Department and has been acknowledged. A substantive reply will issue shortly.
170 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of vehicles registered for motor taxation within County Meath for each of the years 2002 to 2006, inclusive, with a breakdown of this number for each category; the amount of income derived from this source; and if he will provide the information in tabular form. [40957/06]
The Irish Bulletin of Vehicle and Driver Statistics, published annually and available in the Oireachtas Library, contains the information requested. Tables 5-8, inclusive, of these Bulletins contain data on the various tax classes for each licensing authority. The information for 2006, reflecting the position as at the 31 December next, will not be available until publication of the 2006 bulletin in early 2007.
The motor tax receipts for County Meath are as follows:
|
Year |
Amount |
|
€ |
|
|
2002 |
22,036,675 |
|
2003 |
26,440,071 |
|
2004 |
26,160,983 |
|
2005 |
26,632,321 |
|
2006 (to end Oct. 06) |
23,609,705 |
171 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of funding from his Department to Meath County Council for each of the years 1990 to 2006 inclusive, in tabular form. [40958/06]
The information requested in relation to the period 1993 to 2006 (to end October) is set out in the following table. Information in respect of earlier years is not readily available in my Department.
|
€ |
|
|
1993 |
15,788,200.81 |
|
1994 |
15,180,962.21 |
|
1995 |
13,622,550.97 |
|
1996 |
20,532,294.79 |
|
1997 |
28,730,283.81 |
|
1998 |
30,458,230.05 |
|
1999 |
28,979,686.50 |
|
2000 |
29,849,017.99 |
|
2001 |
47,561,032.05 |
|
2002 |
64,512,280.59 |
|
2003 |
44,076,920.66 |
|
2004 |
57,395,016.81 |
|
2005 |
66,880,637.87 |
|
January-October 2006 |
31,560,110.39 |
172 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Government will be formally responding to the request from the ad hoc working group within the United Nations framework for climate change for annex 1 parties to the Kyoto Protocol to present by 23 February 2007 details of the mitigation potential, effectiveness, efficiency, costs and benefits of current and future climate change policies here; the process the Government will follow in determining the mitigation potential that Ireland will set; and if there will be opportunity for public consultation with regard to such long-term plans. [41008/06]
Ireland's response to the Ad-Hoc Working Group will be coordinated with other EU Member States for a single submission by the European Union by 23 February 2007. On the issue of public consultation, I have already received submissions on future mitigation potential for Ireland through the recent public consultation on Ireland's Pathway to Kyoto Compliance.
173 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the properties his Department, or bodies in his Department, has leased on long or short-term lease from a private company or person since 1 January 2003 to date in 2006; the name of each company or person; the conditions entered into in each contract; the payment entered into; the upward rental clause that has been agreed in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41016/06]
My Department leased temporary office accommodation in June 2006, for a period of one year, from Newport & District Development Company Ltd., Co. Mayo at a cost of €1,040 per month.
174 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the limitations placed on housing authorities in relation to the claw back associated with affordable housing; if there are maximum amounts defined by his Department; if the decision can be made locally; the range generally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41058/06]
The provision for a clawback is necessary to ensure that there is no short-term profit taking on the resale of houses provided initially by local authorities at a discount from market value. The method of calculating the clawback is set out in legislation and is uniformly applied by all local authorities irrespective of location. There are no defined maximum limits set by my Department. Information on the levels of clawback amounts is not available to my Department. I am satisfied that the provision works well in protecting the public interest in affordable houses.
