Vol. 629 No. 1
38 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Transport if the route for the joining of the two existing Luas lines has been selected; if this project will begin and be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41746/06]
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) began a public consultation on five potential routes for connecting the two existing Luas lines in November 2005. I understand that the RPA plans to publish a further consultation document in the New Year outlining how all of the route options compare.
I also understand that the RPA is engaged in dialogue with Dublin City Council, Dublin Bus and the Dublin Transportation Office in relation to the implications of the potential routes for bus services and other road users. Subject to a satisfactory outcome to those discussions and the public consultation, the RPA expects to identify a preferred option in the coming months and following this an application for a Railway Order will be made.
The construction timescale will be dependent on the route chosen following the public consultation and the discussions with stakeholders, and on the outcome of the statutory approval process. A second stage of this project will extend the line to Liffey Junction via Grangegorman and Broadstone. Subject to an enforceable Railway Order, the scheduled completion date for the overall project is 2012.
It is important to ensure that this project can be implemented in a way which gives appropriate priority on the road network for both Luas and bus services, while also delivering on the objective of creating an integrated public transport network by linking the two existing Luas lines and extending that link to interchange with the Maynooth and Navan suburban rail services.
39 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Transport if Irish Rail will expand its use of the Phoenix Park tunnel; if he will discuss this issue with Irish Rail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41767/06]
The Phoenix Park Tunnel is an existing railway line connecting Heuston Station with Connolly Station and North Wall Freight Yard. I am informed by Iarnród Éireann that the line is in good condition and is in regular use for freight services and transfer of rolling stock. The line is also occasionally used for passenger trains for major sporting events at Croke Park e.g. football and hurling All Ireland finals when trains from Cork and Kerry go direct to Connolly Station.
The railway line is not used for commuter services from the South West or as a commuter link between Heuston Station and Connolly Station because it would not be possible to accommodate additional peak train services into Connolly Station. The lines into and out of Connolly Station are already at full capacity and any additional capacity created in the future will be needed to cater for growth on the DART, Northern Suburban and Maynooth lines. Connections between Heuston Station and Connolly Station are provided by LUAS and Dublin Bus services.
Iarnród Éireann regards the Interconnector tunnel as the best option for providing additional cross city capacity. Approval has been granted for design development for the Interconnector alignment and its proposed station locations and layouts. This is expected to be completed in mid 2007.
The new city centre rail station being constructed in the Docklands area will provide additional capacity on the Maynooth line, pending the construction of the proposed Interconnector tunnel.
40 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if he will accept CIÉs request for increases in fares across its train and bus network. [41672/06]
102 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport his views on the application by CIÉ for a 9% increase in fares for 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41661/06]
117 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport the role of his Department in relation to the setting of bus and rail fares; his strategy in relation to incentivising public transport uptake through the fare system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41622/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 40, 102 and 117 together.
The standard single fare charged by the CIÉ companies, and by the Railway Procurement Agency in respect of LUAS is, based on custom and practice, subject to control by me. CIÉ has applied for an average increase in 2007 of 9% in Iarnród Éireann and Bus Éireann fares and a 10% increase in Bus Átha Cliath fares. CIÉ has based its application on a projected 6% increase in costs in 2007, plus a 3%-4% increase to meet historical fuel cost increases over recent years which CIÉ contend have not been adequately dealt with in previous fare increases.
CIÉ's application is currently under consideration in my Department and I intend to announce a decision in the matter shortly. My objective in relation to public transport fares is, taking account of underlying cost factors and inflation, to secure a good balance between anticipated revenues, cost control and compensation for loss making services by way of Exchequer subvention so that public transport is an attractive option for the travelling public and the public transport companies operate on a sound financial basis.
The detailed design of fare structures, including promotional and incentive fares, is a matter for the public transport companies. All three CIÉ companies use discounted fares of various types, including the tax saver annual and monthly ticket scheme, to promote the use of public transport.
41 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Transport the action he is taking through vehicle standards, road pricing, public transport provision or otherwise to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from the transport sector here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41653/06]
66 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport if he will initiate discussions with companies selling cars here to see if they will commit to selling at least flexfuel model in their respective line ups at a price comparable to regular petrol version as has been promised by French motor companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41789/06]
94 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Transport the specific measures being pursued by his Department to encourage commuters to adopt more sustainable means of travel and transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41760/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 41, 66 and 94 together.
My Department's principal contribution towards improving the sustainability of transport is through a range of Transport 21 investments. Transport 21 will provide unprecedented levels of funding for public transport over the next ten years, and represents a major rebalancing of investment in favour of public transport, which will facilitate modal shift towards public transport. Increased public transport use and the provision of an alternative to the private car remains a fundamental objective of the public transport investment programme.
Investment under the National Development Plan in recent years has funded a major expansion in the capacity of commuter rail and bus services. Total investment in CIE operated transport services over the period 2002-2005 amounted to €2.24 billion.
Under Transport 21 public transport capacity is set to almost double over the period of this investment programme. A high level of investment in rail and bus services will be maintained and will total approximately €16 billion for public transport throughout the country. The capital provision for public transport in 2007 is a record €777 million. This investment will result in a further expansion of public transport capacity.
Transport 21 provides funding for other sustainable transport initiatives. The purpose of these initiatives is to make cleaner, more environmentally-friendly vehicles available, within public transport, the haulage industry and taxis. These initiatives include pilot projects for biofuel and hybrid-electric technologies, and eco-driving. My Department will be engaging with the relevant sectors to progress these initiatives. We are is also providing significant financial and other support for a range of traffic management initiatives, including bus priority and the provision of improved facilities for cycling and walking.
The continued development of the national road programme, under Transport 21, makes a positive contribution by improving the road network. This allows traffic flow more freely and efficiently, so reducing traffic congestion and helping to limit emissions.
Specific measures in relation to improving private car fuel efficiency are being tackled in the context of European Union transport policy. Many of the issues can best be approached from a European or even an international perspective rather than addressing specific car suppliers in individual Member States.
Europe has a specific strategy to reduce CO2 emissions from passenger cars. As part of this strategy Ireland supports the EU Voluntary Agreements negotiated between the European Commission and the international motor industry aimed at achieving emission reductions through designing efficiency improvements into new vehicles. According to the European Commission's most recent annual report on the impact of the voluntary agreements, in 2004 CO2 emissions from new cars, at 161g of CO2/km, were 12.4% below 1995 levels. The Community objective under the strategy is to reach an emission level of 120 g of CO2/km by 2012 at the latest.
In support for that strategy, it is a requirement that all new vehicles registered in Ireland conform to the EU Type-Approval System emissions standards. Furthermore, as part of the periodic compulsory roadworthiness testing schemes, vehicles are examined to ensure that they comply with the emissions standards.
The European Commission is currently reviewing that strategy and the options available to further reduce CO2 emissions. The revised strategy, which will be subject to an impact assessment, will be based on an integrated approach to reduce CO2 emissions from cars, involving the various stakeholders and will examine car technology, fuels, infrastructure and driver behaviour.
It is generally recognised that the achievement of significant emission reductions in the transport sector is difficult even in a low growth scenario, but it is particularly so given the strong economic growth and growing population scenario that is the case in Ireland. In this context, my Department remains committed to delivering a sustainable transport sector that will support Ireland's economic, social and environmental aspirations now and in the future.
42 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport when the route for Metro West will be decided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41776/06]
Transport 21, which was launched late last year, includes Metro West, linking Tallaght, Clondalkin, Liffey Valley and Blanchardstown to Metro North. The RPA, in consultation with South Dublin and Fingal County Councils and other key stakeholders, have identified two appropriate route corridors for Metro West between its terminus at Tallaght and its connection with Metro North.
I launched the public consultation process for Metro West on 22nd November last. 50,000 newsletters will be circulated to households and other interested parties along the proposed routes as part of this consultation. The newsletter contains a map showing the two broad corridor options and an assessment of each of these options.
The RPA will consult widely with people living and working along the proposed routes, public representatives, agencies and local authorities. This process gives people an opportunity to express their views and have these views taken into account in the implementation of the project.
The route finally selected may be a variant or combination of the route options or other options identified during consultation. It is expected that a preferred alignment will be identified in 2007. Once an emerging preferred route option has been identified, RPA will prepare an Outline Business Case seeking approval to proceed with a Railway Order application.
43 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport his strategy in relation to the commencement of section 10 of the Road Traffic Act 2006; the target in the average number of weeks wait for a driving test at which point he will commence this section; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41650/06]
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for the oversight of the operation of the driver licensing system. Section 10 of the Road Traffic Act 2006 re-enacts existing enabling provisions which apply to provisional licences so that they apply to learner permits. The section also provides that regulations may require learner drivers to undergo a course of instruction. This provision will, in particular, facilitate the introduction of compulsory basic training of motorcyclists.
The section also provides that a period may be specified, following the granting of a learner permit, during which a learner driver may not apply for a driving test. This is intended to ensure that there will be a minimum period during which a learner driver has to undergo instruction before being allowed to apply for a test.
The commencement of this section will be considered in the context of a package of recommendations in relation to driver licensing reform which I am expecting to receive shortly from the Road Safety Authority and having regard to the progress that the Authority makes in dealing with the driver testing backlog.
44 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport when he expects to establish the new Dublin Transport Authority; the powers the authority will have to issue directions to CIÉ companies in relation to the public transport services they provide and the procurement measures they follow. [41703/06]
61 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport if he will extend the 1 December 2006 deadline for submissions on the proposed Dublin Transport Authority as requested by one of the transport unions, the NBRU. [41674/06]
62 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Transport the way he proposes to ensure that the proposed Dublin Transport Authority is fully accountable. [41664/06]
67 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport the way he will absorb the Dublin Transportation Office within the new Dublin Transport Authority; the arrangements that will be made for existing staff within the Dublin Transportation Office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41705/06]
76 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport the measures that will be in place to ensure that land use planning will be co-ordinated with future transport plans which will be set by the Dublin Transport Authority; and the sanctions that will be available to the new authority if local authority development plans, local area plans or individual planning applications run contrary to transport planning objectives. [41709/06]
80 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport when the chairperson and board of the Dublin Transport Authority will be appointed; if he intends that they will operate in shadow format pending the passage of enabling legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41742/06]
93 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport the location from which the expertise required to perform the work undertaken by the Dublin Transportation Office will be acquired to validate the many extensive and complex transport projects planned over the next ten years. [41785/06]
100 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Transport if the legislation to formally establish the Dublin Transport Authority will be introduced before the Christmas 2006 recess; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41743/06]
116 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if he will reconsider the recommendation to completely disband the Dublin Transportation Office in view of its vast experience, expertise and unique skills in traffic forecasting and planning. [41784/06]
132 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport the role which the proposed Dublin Transport Authority will have in relation to land usage in the greater Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41775/06]
135 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Transport if he has held discussions with both the DTO and the Railway Procurement Agency in relation to their future status and function once the Dublin Transport Authority is established; the issues which emerged from such discussions; the actions his Department intends to pursue to overcome the concerns of both bodies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41747/06]
140 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the reason he is considering disbanding the Rail Procurement Agency and including its role within the proposed Dublin Transport Authority; the reason he has not taken a similar position with regard to the National Roads Authority; and the terms and conditions that will apply for RPA staff who transfer to the new authority. [41704/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 44, 61, 62, 67, 76, 80, 93, 100, 116, 132, 135 and 140 together.
I published the report of the Dublin Transport Authority Establishment Team on the 9th of November. I sought the views of interested parties on the proposed structure, functions and powers of the Authority before I finalised the legislation to establish the Authority on a statutory basis. Officials in my Department have held meetings with a wide range of interested parties. A number of written submissions have also been made to my Department. I have indicated to all interested parties that it is not my intention that all consultation will come to an end in early December. However, I am anxious to finalise the drafting of legislation and in this context I am seeking to identify the core objectives and concerns of interested parties in relation to a Dublin Transport Authority. There will continue to be opportunities to address matters of detailed concern, as is normal practice, following the publication of legislation.
I now intend to take the opportunity to reflect on the views expressed and concerns raised during the consultation process before finalising my legislative proposals. These include the issues raised in the Deputies' Questions. It would be premature and unfair to those who participated in the consultation process to comment on issues or concerns raised by them during the process. It remains my intention to publish legislation at the earliest opportunity, having regard to matters raised during consultations, and to enact the legislation in the lifetime of the current Dáil.
Regarding the accountability of the Authority, a number of recommendations have been made in the report of the Establishment Team in this regard. Their recommendations include making the Authority accountable to the Oireachtas and the establishment of an Advisory Council representing a diverse range of interests. I am confident that these and other measures under consideration will provide an effective accountability framework for the new Authority.
As I have stated previously, the Team's report made a number of recommendations on the integration of transport and land use planning. The Government accepted the objective of the proposals made by the Team, which was to ensure a coherent approach to land use and transport planning in the Greater Dublin Area. However, it was concerned that the proposals contained in the report would unnecessarily dilute the democratic accountability of the planning process. The Government has, therefore, decided to adopt an alternative approach to meeting the objective of the Team on the lines jointly recommended by my colleague Dick Roche T.D., the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and myself. Details of the proposed arrangements are available within the statement I issued when publishing the Team's report on the 9th of November.
I am actively examining the appointment of an interim chairperson and the establishment of an interim Authority. The interim Authority will be mandated to progress the putting in place of necessary organisational arrangements, such as the recruitment of a senior management team, prior to the enactment of legislation. It is not envisaged that the interim Authority will seek to discharge substantive functions pending the enactment of legislation to provide statutory authority for its work.
45 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Transport the amount provided for road signage in the Book of Estimates 2007. [41647/06]
My Department is responsible for policy and funding issues in relation to national roads only. National roads account for 5% of the overall Irish road network. Matters, including signage, relating to non-national roads are a matter for my colleague the Minister for Environment Heritage and Local Government and Local Authorities. The responsibility for road signage on national roads rests with for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under section 19(1)(c) of the Roads Act 1993.
However, I understand from the NRA that in 2007 they plan to allocate €13 million to the provision of road signage. This funding is provided out of the road construction sub-head (B.1.1) published in the Book of Estimates. This reflects the fact that most road signage is provided during the construction phase of national road schemes.
46 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport when the new road safety strategy will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41774/06]
The Government Road Safety Strategy 2004-2006 sets a primary target of a 25% reduction in road collision fatalities by the end of 2006 over the average annual number of fatalities in the 1998-2003 period. This was always an ambitious target and one that required the continued commitment to a strategic, integrated approach by all of the road safety agencies.
Significant initiatives identified in the Strategy that have been realised to date include the introduction of a new system of metric speed limits, the further extension of the operation of the penalty point and fixed charge systems from April 2006, and, the establishment of the Garda Traffic Corps. The Corps, provides the basis for the achievement of the significant gains in road safety that emanate from consistent high levels of traffic law enforcement.
Other major proposals identified, such as the plans to establish a system of private sector operation of speed cameras under the auspices of the Gardaí, are well advanced.
The Road Traffic Act 2006 has been enacted and a number of key measures commenced. These include the provision to combat drink driving through enabling roadside Mandatory Alcohol Testing (MAT) and a ban on the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving. We are making progress across the wide range of initiatives identified in the current Strategy, which is now coming to an end, and I am satisfied that all of the agencies involved are fully committed to the achievement of the goals that underpin the Strategy.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is responsible for the preparation and submission to me for my approval of the next Road Safety Strategy which will commence in 2007. The RSA went out to public consultation in October and I understand they have received a substantial number of suggestions and proposals as a result of this process. The Authority will also be engaging directly in the coming weeks with the relevant stakeholders. It is expected that the Strategy will be finalised and presented to me for approval in the first quarter of 2007.
47 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which traffic surveys have been undertaken with a view to determination of the extent to which the port tunnel is expected to relieve or exacerbate traffic flows on the M50 or other approach roads to Dublin city from all directions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41624/06]
59 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Transport the role his Department has had in the devising of a new traffic management regime for the opening of the port tunnel; the city centre travel restrictions that will apply on trucks exiting the port; and the enforcement measures that will ensure trucks use the port tunnel rather than the existing road network to access the port. [41708/06]
146 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken directly or in assisting the National Roads Authority and the local authorities to manage the large increase in traffic on the M50 when the port tunnel opens in December 2006. [41641/06]
257 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the works that have been identified which will be required to be carried out to the approach roads of the northern portal of the Dublin port tunnel; the schedule for such work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41855/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47, 59, 146 and 257 together.
I refer the Deputies to my reply to Priority Question No. 30.
48 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport the directions he has made to the National Roads Authority under section 41 of the Roads Act 1993 since coming into office. [41642/06]
I have not issued any directions to the National Roads Authority under this Section of the 1993 Act since I took up office in this Department.
49 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Transport the tolling arrangements being devised for the West Link bridge on the M50 following the possible buy-out of the tolling concession held by the existing operators and the stated aim to extend the toll to 2035 to pay for the second phase of the upgrade of the M50; the expected level of toll that will be introduced; the private sector involvement planned; and the technology that will apply for collecting the toll. [41711/06]
At the outset, I should explain that overall responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the M50 Upgrade, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned. I have no function in relation to the day-to-day operation of these projects.
In addition, the statutory power to levy tolls on national roads, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into toll agreements with private investors in respect of national roads, including the M50, is vested in the National Roads Authority (NRA) under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000).
As the Deputy is aware, last January, for commercial and strategic reasons, the National Roads Authority (NRA) decided to end the arrangement with National Toll Roads plc (NTR) that has been in place under an agreement entered into in 1987 for the collection of tolls at West-Link up to 2020. Instead, the NRA is separately procuring a single point barrier free toll system which will become operational in quarter 3 of 2008. This will coincide with the completion of Phase 1 of the upgrade of the M50 — the section between the N4 and the Ballymount interchanges.
It is intended that the M50 Free Flow contract will be awarded in February 2007 and will involve an eight year contract to provide for the design, implementation and operation of the free flow tolling arrangements. At the end of this period, the NRA will have the option to extend the contract for a further three years or to re-advertise for a new operator.
I understand that the toll revenue from the barrier-free single point toll will be used to fund Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the M50 upgrade and the cost of introducing barrier free tolling as well as the costs of terminating NTR's West-Link contract.
With regard to the level of tolls that will be introduced when the new system becomes operational in 2008, the NRA advise that the toll levels will be comparable to current levels (indexed linked) and there will not be more than one tolling location. The NRA intend to submit proposals for the barrier free toll arrangement for Government consideration in due course.
I understand from the NRA that barrier-free tolling will be achieved by an electronic toll collection system, which allows for tolling without vehicles having to stop or even slow down. Under the new system, the identification of vehicles will be facilitated by Automated Vehicle Identification technology and an automatic number plate recognition system (i.e., video enforcement) with users availing of either pre or post payment means. Automated toll collection in a barrier free environment can deliver an improved level of service by increasing the throughput capability of a toll plaza and reducing queues.
I recently sought and obtained Government approval for the drafting of the necessary legislation to support the enforcement of tolls under the planned free-flow tolling arrangements. I hope to bring the Bill before the Oireachtas early next year.
50 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Transport the reason for a shortfall of €101.3 million in capital spending within the 2006 transport budget; the specific projects that did not use up their spending target; when did he become aware that there would be a shortfall in spending in each case; the reason the spending was transferred to the roads budget; and when the need for such additional spending in the roads budget was made apparent. [41707/06]
52 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Transport the reason unspent moneys allocated to be spent on public transport projects in 2006 will now be transferred to be spent on road projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41779/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 50 and 52 together.
I have reassigned €101.3 million from the 2006 Transport 21 public transport allocation due to a projected underspend in this area. These funds have been transferred to the national roads budget for 2006 to allow an acceleration of their Transport 21 programme. The amount transferred will be recovered from the national road allocation over the course of Transport 21, as required. This demonstrates the value of the ten year capital envelope which permits the active management of the overall Transport 21 allocations throughout the year.
Various factors which were outside the control of the implementing agencies have led to the underspend in public transport. The Luas extensions to Cherrywood and the Docklands and the Iarnród Éireann Kildare Route project are at Railway Order stage. At the beginning of the year, it was anticipated that the Railway Order process in respect of these projects would have been concluded and that construction would have commenced, with a consequent drawdown of Exchequer funding. The Railway Order processes did not proceed as quickly as anticipated when the original allocations were made. In addition, the Cherrywood project is the subject of a judicial review.
However, preparations are continuing to bring these projects to construction at the earliest date. Subject to an enforceable Railway Order, construction will commence on the Kildare Route and Docklands projects early in 2007, while progress on Cherrywood must await the outcome of the judicial review. The rate of development of the Quality Bus Corridor programme by the local authorities has also been slower than planned. These factors have resulted in a reduction of €101.3 million in the public transport allocation.
The Department reviews progress on the investment programmes with its agencies on a monthly basis and the results of these reviews are used to update financial allocations on an ongoing basis. Funds were reassigned to the roads budget first in June and again in October 2006 and November 2006, based on regular monthly reviews of spending.
The roads programme for 2006 was implemented at a faster rate than anticipated. Good weather over the summer months accelerated construction so that completion dates for key phases of certain projects were brought forward. The funds available for reallocation from the public transport programme were transferred to the roads programme so that work could continue on an accelerated basis.
The allocation of the additional funding to the roads programme has allowed for accelerated construction work on certain schemes. In particular, the N8 Cashel to Mitchelstown scheme was able to move forward at a much faster construction rate that would have been possible without additional funding. In addition, land acquisition was accelerated on a number of motorway projects. The additional expenditure on land acquisition this year reduces the amount of land payments required on these projects in later years.
51 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Transport if he has proposals to include new projects to relieve urban congestion in Transport 21. [41677/06]
Transport 21 provides funding for measures to relieve urban congestion in a number of ways through the provision of increased public transport services, through investment in improved traffic management systems and through the construction of urban bypasses and relief roads schemes. Each element of the programme will contribute to easing congestion, both in Dublin and in our other urban centres.
Transport 21 will transform the public transport system in the Greater Dublin Area through the development of an integrated network of light rail, Metro, heavy rail and buses running on an expanded Quality Bus Network. This will lead to almost a doubling of public transport passenger journeys by 2015. This together with the upgrading of the M50 and new traffic management systems will make a major contribution to reducing congestion in the capital. The establishment of a Dublin Transport Authority will provide a coordinated approach to the issue of traffic management and will, therefore, result in improvements to traffic flow.
On a national level, Transport 21 provides funds to develop public transport in provincial cities and to provide for traffic management schemes including bus priority measures and park and ride facilities. The roads programme includes provision for the bypassing of many towns which greatly reduces congestion. Already the benefits of the bypasses are being enjoyed by towns such as Monaghan, Fermoy and Cavan. With the continued completion of projects under Transport 21, I expect congestion in urban areas to ease on a gradual basis.
53 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Transport if he supports the idea of a dedicated court division to deal specifically with road traffic offences; if he has had discussions with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform on this issue; the outcome of such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41734/06]
This proposal is primarily a matter for my colleague the Minister for Justice and the Courts Service. My officials will liaise with their counterparts in the Department of Justice in relation to the assessment of this proposal.
54 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport his Department’s policy with regard to commuters travelling into the city; the level of public transport services; the number of daily commuters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41530/06]
75 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the evaluation that has been carried out on the use of the private car as a mode of transport for commuting on a daily basis in the greater Dublin area over the past ten years and the switch from a private car to public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41529/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 54 and 75 together.
Policies to promote public transport over the private car were set out in the final report of the Dublin Transport Initiative in 1994 and in the Dublin Transportation Office (DTO) transport strategy "A Platform for Change", which was published in 2001. The National Development Plans 1994 to 1999, and 2000 to 2006 also placed a particular emphasis on investing in expanding the capacity of our public transport systems to reduce the reliance on private car. The numbers travelling on public transport have significantly increased as a result of the major investments that have been made under the National Development Plans, against the background of significant increases in car ownership levels.
A significant focus of Transport 21, the Government's 10-year capital investment framework for transport, published in November 2005, is to transform the level and quality of public transport services in the Greater Dublin Area. TRANSPORT 21 ring-fenced some €13bn for delivery of a set of public transport projects, broadly drawn from A Platform for Change, in the GDA. TRANSPORT 21 provides funding for major suburban rail, Luas, Metro, and bus projects which will have the result of significantly increasing coverage of the region by public transport networks.
At present, some 200 million passenger journeys are made annually on public transport alone in the Greater Dublin Area. This is set to increase to 375 million by the end of Transport 21.
55 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Transport when he will act upon the proposals for reform of the regulations which apply to provisional and inexperienced drivers presented to him by the Road Safety Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41739/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to priority questions 1 and 2 on the 2 November in which I indicated that the RSA has submitted to me a range of proposals with a particular focus on licensing reform and on targeting drivers between 17 and 24 years old.
I share the concern of the RSA Board about the high risk factors of death and serious injury to this particular category of drivers. I have met with the Chief Executive Officer of the RSA to discuss the proposals. I have now asked that the Authority come back to me as soon as possible with a structured approach to a complete transition, with time lines, from the current regime of provisional licences to a regime of learner permits and restricted category drivers and related learner/driver formation arrangements. I know that such a complete transition will take time, but that there is great potential for saving young lives in this approach.
56 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Transport the feasibility study, cost-benefit analysis, consultants report or other research he has commissioned since the publication of the strategic rail review on the possibility of a subsidy for rail freight here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41654/06]
85 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Transport his views on the development of the rail freight industry; the measures he will pursue to achieve this purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41761/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 85 together.
I refer the Deputies to my reply of the 2nd November, 2006 to Dail Question Nos. 41, 77 and 79. My Department has not commissioned any further study or research on the possibility of providing a subsidy for rail freight.
57 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport his views on the recent Greater Dublin Area Transport Survey 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41671/06]
The recent Greater Dublin Area (GDA) travel survey was carried out by Millward Brown IMS on behalf of the Dublin Transportation Office (DTO). The survey field work was undertaken between the months of March and July of this year and some 2,500 households in the counties of Dublin, Kildare, Meath and Wicklow participated. The survey procedure involved a face-to-face interview with a selected household member and the completion of a seven day Travel Diary by members of the household aged 11+ years.
The survey highlights more than ever the need to upgrade public transport in the Greater Dublin Area to reduce dependence on the private car, which is one of the aims of the TRANSPORT 21 Investment Programme.
58 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Transport when he will introduce mandatory basic training for motorcyclists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41736/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 8 on the 2 November. Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for the oversight of the operation of the driver licensing system including the preparation of proposals for draft regulatory provisions relating to driver licensing and testing. In this context the Road Safety Authority is responsible for bringing forward proposals for the introduction of compulsory initial practical training for motorcyclists.
However, a prerequisite for the introduction of such training is the availability and registration of motorcycle instructors. The Road Safety Authority is responsible for registering driving instructors. A consultation document published jointly by my Department and the RSA last May set out proposals for the registration of driving instructors and invited submissions to be made by the 8 September. These submissions are being considered by the RSA. New instructors are to be registered from 1 July 2007 and it is intended that all instructors will be registered by the 1 July 2008.
60 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Transport if he has discussed the roll-out of the remaining penalty point offences with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform; if this remains a priority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41741/06]
68 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Transport when he will bring the full list of penalty point categories into force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41657/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 60 and 68 together.
The roll-out of the penalty points system to the range of offences set out in the Schedules to the Road Traffic Act 2002 was commenced in October 2002 in respect of speeding offences. It was progressed further in 2003 to cover driving without insurance and non-wearing of safety belt offences and extended in 2004 in respect of the offence of careless driving.
The range of penalty point offences was significantly extended from 3 April 2006 with the addition of 31 new offences. The most recent extension was in September 2006 to bring the offence of holding a mobile phone while driving within the ambit of the system. The total number of offences to which the penalty point system now applies is 36.
The focus of the roll-out of the penalty points system to date is on offences that relate primarily to the behaviour of drivers. This reflects the fact that 86% of all road deaths can be attributed to driver behaviour in its broadest sense.
The relevant support systems must be put in place to support the extension of the penalty points system, and where applicable, the fixed charge system. Discussions are held in advance with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and other agencies regarding the timing of each scheduled roll-out of new offences to ensure that the relevant interfaces are in place between the Garda Síochána and the Court Services IT systems, and, the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government who hold and administer the National Driving File.
The progressive extension of the penalty point system will continue to be pursued but I have no definitive timeframe at this point in relation to the remaining offences.
63 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport his policy in relation to the use of bus lanes by motorcyclists; and the road safety research this policy is based upon. [41627/06]
79 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Transport if he has reviewed the proposal to allow motorcycles to use bus lanes. [41680/06]
130 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Transport his proposals in relation to permitting motorcyclists use bus lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41735/06]
145 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Transport his proposals to amend regulations to allow hackneys to use bus lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41628/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 63, 79, 130 and 145 together.
The use of bus lanes is provided for in the Road Traffic (Traffic & Parking) Regulations 1997 and 1998. The primary purpose of bus lanes is to facilitate and promote bus based public transport. The regulations, which have national application, generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists also.
Having regard to the role of taxis in providing an on-street immediate hire service, an exemption to the restriction relating to the use of with-flow bus lanes is allowed in respect of taxis when they are being used in the course of business. Many representations have been received by my Department seeking to extend access to bus lanes in relation to a wide range of other road users including hackneys. A review of the access issue was carried out in 2001 and took account of the physical characteristics of the vehicles seeking access. The result of that review was to maintain the existing position.
Earlier this year, the Road Safety Authority carried out and presented to my Department some research in relation to motorcycle safety and proposed that the issue of allowing motorcyclists access to bus lanes on a pilot scheme basis be examined. Following consultation with the other relevant agencies, it has been decided to proceed to the detailed specification of pilot schemes.
64 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport when drug driving testing will be introduced on roads here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36317/06]
114 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Transport when he will introduce measures to randomly check drivers for illegal drugs usage; the tests he will use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36329/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 64 and 114 together.
It is illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of a vehicle. The Road Traffic Acts provides that a member of the Garda Síochána may, where he or she is of the opinion that a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place is under the influence of a drug or drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of that vehicle, require that person to go to a Garda station and further require that person submit to a blood test or to provide a urine sample.
The Medical Bureau of Road Safety analyses blood and urine specimens received under the Road Traffic Acts for the presence of a drug or drugs. In 2004, 569 specimens were tested for the presence of a drug or drugs. 354 specimens tested positive and 215 were found to be negative for the presence of a drug or drugs.
There is no feasible basis yet in Ireland or in Europe for the introduction of a scheme of preliminary roadside testing for drugs. Testing devices are still in the prototype stages.
At a meeting of the Pompidou Group of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg in July 2006, representatives from all over Europe addressed the issue of random drug testing of drivers at the roadside in the light of the most up to date developments throughout this region.
The Medical Bureau of Road Safety and An Garda Síochána participated in that seminar, which concluded that there is currently no device considered to be reliable enough in order to be recommended for roadside saliva screening of drivers for drugs. The Medical Bureau is keeping abreast of developments in this area.
65 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport the discussions he has had with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government regarding a joint effort at improving road traffic and planning legislation to curtail the increasing problem of the use of large trucks of several axles to deliver to small neighbourhood shops; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41620/06]
Statutory responsibility for decisions in relation to the implementation of traffic management measures rests with each individual road authority and similarly the application of planning law is a matter for each planning authority. I have not had discussions with my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on the issue referred to by the Deputy because these are matters that are being pursued at local level rather than at Ministerial level.
69 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the way in each case the public service obligation payment for 2006 for Iarnród Éireann, Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus was arrived at; the routes, areas, passenger profile or other category on which the PSO applies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41623/06]
Following publication of the 2006 Book of Estimates, which set out the overall provision available for compensation to CIÉ in 2006 in respect of its public service obligation, my Department determined, in consultation with CIÉ, the allocation of the provision between the three CIÉ companies taking into account the needs of each company and plans for the expansion of services. The compensation is not broken down by route, area or passenger traffic.
70 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport the funding stream for the provision of quality bus corridors; the amount available in 2007; the amount available under Transport 21; the amount provided in each of the years since 2002 and to date in 2006; the amount drawn down in each of those years; and the persons by whom it was drawn down and the project in relation to same. [41646/06]
The Department of Transport is the source of funding available to local authorities for provision of Quality Bus Corridors and other traffic management measures. The Dublin Transportation Office and the Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford local authorities administer these grants on behalf of my Department. Allocations for Traffic management grants in the Regional Cities include provision for Bus Priority and Park & Ride in those cities. The amount provided for under the Transport 21 funding package for Traffic Management in the Greater Dublin Area is €599 million over its 10-year life. A further €226 million is provided for bus priority measures, traffic management and park and ride facilities in other cities. The amount made available for Traffic Management grants in the GDA and the Regional Cities was €40.2m in 2002, €46m in 2003, €46.9 in 2004, €45.8 in 2005, and €52m in 2006. The amount in 2007 in the Greater Dublin Area and regional cities is €55million. Drawdowns amounted to €24m in 2002, €45.5m in 2003, €45.3m in 2004, €45.8m in 2005 and €13.2m to date in 2006. This funding was drawn down for a variety of projects by Bray Town Council, Dublin Bus, Dublin City Council, Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, the Dublin Regional Authority, the Dublin Transportation Office, Fingal County Council, Kildare County Council, the Local Government Computer Services Board, Meath County Council, the Office of Public Works, the Quality Bus Network Project Office, South Dublin County Council, An Taisce and Wicklow County Council in the Greater Dublin Area, and Cork City Council, Galway City Council, Galway Co. Council, Limerick City Council, Limerick County Council, and Waterford City Council in the Regional Cities.
Notice of the projects in respect of which this funding was drawn down for the years 2002-2005 has been sent to Deputy Rabbitte. The equivalent data for 2006 is awaited from the local authorities and will be forwarded to the Deputy when received.
71 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Transport the Bills he expects to publish before the end of 2006; and thereafter the Bills he expects to publish before the general election. [41651/06]
The Government Press Office publishes the Government's planned legislation programme at the beginning of each Dáil session. The Bills published in any one term depend on a range of factors including the demands on Dáil time for other business, requirements for urgent legislation etc. Planned legislation for the next Dáil session will be published by the Government Press Office early in the new year.
72 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport his views on the absence of dedicated park and ride bus linked facilities that are not a feature of Operation Freeflow 2006; the reason for this absence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41764/06]
141 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport if Operation Freeflow will achieve its intended purpose over the festive period. [41676/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 72 and 141 together.
The planning of Operation Freeflow is a matter for the Operation Freeflow Committee, which is chaired by An Garda Síochána and brings together the relevant local authorities and agencies. Operation Freeflow 2006 was launched on 27 November 2006, and runs until 7 January 2007. I understand that, as in previous years, Operation Freeflow includes a range of measures to improve traffic flow in Dublin during the Christmas and New Year period, including the deployment of additional Gardaí on traffic duty in the City.
Operation Freeflow has now been running for over a decade, and has an established record of improving traffic flow at what is the busiest time of the year. I expect it to be of great benefit to people travelling in Dublin during this period this year, as it has been in the past. This year, there are no temporary park and ride facilities provided as part of Operation Freeflow. I understand that the Operation Freeflow Committee was not in favour of including such facilities, as the usage of the facilities provided in the past two years has been extremely low.
73 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Transport when he will introduce 100 private sector buses to the Dublin bus market as promised in early 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41750/06]
82 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport when the second hundred buses identified as being required immediately in the Dublin Bus network review will be provided; if, in view of the identified need for such services, he will outline the reason for the delay in providing funding for buses; if his approval of new licenses to private operators form part of his response to the network review; if the newly licensed routes to be operated by private providers will be subject to the competitive tendering process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41511/06]
97 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport when he expects the 100 private sector operated buses to be fully deployed and operating in Dublin; the areas they will serve; the estimated cost of these buses and services to the Exchequer; and the funding set aside for these buses in the Book of Estimates 2007. [41658/06]
104 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the role which will be played by the Dublin Transport Authority in relation to the regulation of bus services in the greater Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41749/06]
138 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport if the bus industry will be opened up to competition in 2007; the measures he has taken to allow this to occur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41745/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 73, 82, 97, 104 and 138 together.
The Government has made a number of significant decisions in recent times that will provide a solid basis for expanded and improved bus services throughout the country over the coming years. As announced in my statement of 28 September 2006, the Government has decided that the regulation of the bus market and future decisions on the allocation of all public subsidies for bus services in the Greater Dublin Area will be taken by the new Dublin Transport Authority. Legislation to establish the Authority is now at an advanced stage of preparation and a consultative process in line with the commitment under "Towards 2016" is underway.
The DTA will have responsibility for contracting with all operators in the Dublin market. It will also be responsible for monitoring the quality and cost of service by all operators and ensuring value for money on all routes.
Under the Government's transport investment framework– Transport 21 — it is anticipated that there will be a requirement in the GDA for an expansion of the number of buses providing scheduled services. This will require at least 200 extra buses over the next two years. The Government has decided to meet this initial requirement by providing up to €30m necessary funding to enable Dublin Bus to buy 100 additional buses. I understand from Dublin Bus that these buses are currently being delivered and they should all be in place by early next year. Their deployment is a matter for the company.
A further 100 buses are to be procured from the private sector by the Dublin Transport Authority to provide services on new routes. This is to be done by way of competitive tendering. This forms part of an initiative to facilitate the entry of private operators, by awarding franchises to operate routes accounting for 15% of the expanded Dublin bus market (approx 200 buses) exclusively to such operators by way of competitive tendering. The question of providing funding for these services does not arise at this juncture nor will the cost to the Exchequer be evident until the tendering process is completed by the DTA.
It is envisaged that the identification of routes for these buses and the award of franchises will be a matter for the DTA. Following this, all new routes will be subject to a competitive tendering process open to all operators. The precise arrangements will be approved by Government on the basis of proposals from the DTA.
New legislation is also being prepared to replace the existing bus licensing regime under the Road Transport Act 1932 with a modern regulatory and licensing regime in line with commitments in the Programme for Government. This new legislation will address a range of issues including improved enforcement arrangements and the introduction of a single licensing code for all bus operators. The new legislation will be designed in a manner consistent with EU law on public service obligations and State aids and in such a way as to create new opportunities for private operator involvement in the bus market.
In advance of the legislation replacing the 1932 Act, my Department will continue to process any applications or notifications for new or amended bus services received from both private and public bus operators under the existing regulatory regime.
74 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Transport when the negotiations regarding the State’s purchase of the West Link toll bridge will be completed; if it is intended that the sector of road between the N3 and N4 will also be purchased by the State; if this will form a separate contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41778/06]
139 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport the amount provided in the Book of Estimates 2007 for the buy out of the West Link toll bridge; and when he expects same to be drawn down. [41645/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 139 together.
I refer the Deputy to my response to Question No. 251. In relation to the question of a provision in the Book of Estimates for 2007, there is no such provision in the Abridged Estimates & Summary Public Capital Programme, 2007.
77 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if the abandonment of the Metro and Luas line to serve the area between the existing green and red Luas lines in the south Dublin suburbs was sanctioned by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41786/06]
113 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport if he will instruct the Railway Procurement Agency to bring the alignment design for the south-side Metro and Luas lines dropped from Platform For Change to a point where it can request local authorities to provide for the land reservations in their development plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41787/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 77 and 113 together.
I want to begin by refuting the suggestion that the lines referred to by the Deputy have been abandoned. While Transport 21 involves a very large commitment of financial resources, those resources are also finite. Transport 21 provides funding for the delivery of an extensive rail based network in the period 2006 to 2015. This network is based on the Dublin Transportation Office strategy "A Platform for Change". The Railway Procurement Agency is tasked with the delivery of the Luas and Metro elements of Transport 21. In the short to medium term the RPA is focused on delivering all Luas/Metro projects for which financial support is provided for in Transport 21.
The DTO strategy remains the longer-term strategic framework for transport in the Greater Dublin Area. Funding is provided for feasibility studies on those elements of the "A Platform for Change" which are not included in Transport 21. These include a metro line from Tallaght via Kimmage to the city centre and the proposed Luas line from the city centre to Dundrum via Terenure. The RPA will investigate the feasibility of these suggested projects during the timescale of Transport 21. This work will help define in more detail the corridors to be used for these projects. The Government has already taken decisions on Transport 21 and more particularly on the key elements of an integrated transport network for the Greater Dublin Area, based on a robust professional analysis by the DTO and the relevant transport delivery agencies. Over the past year we have developed a growing momentum on the delivery of this very large investment programme. The reality is that we cannot do everything at once and have to prioritise. However this does not mean that projects that are not scheduled for construction during Transport 21 are off the agenda. Our intention is that feasibility and planning work should proceed on those projects so that they are ready for a future investment programme.
78 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the reason the Cork commuter rail project did not begin construction in 2006; when this project will begin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41788/06]
Subject to a satisfactory outcome to the Railway Order process, it is expected that the construction of the Glounthaune to Midleton railway line can commence in 2007 and still be completed in line with Transport 21. The Railway Order process has taken longer than anticipated. I appointed an Inspector to hold a Public Inquiry into CIE's application for the project on 26 May last. The Inquiry opened on 31 October and concluded on 3 November. I am now awaiting the report of the Inspector into the Public Inquiry before I can make my decision as to whether to grant the Railway Order.
81 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied with the take up by local authorities of funding allocated for the provision of park and ride facilities; the measures he has pursued to encourage such take up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41768/06]
My Department provides funding to the DTO in respect of the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) and the local authorities in the regional cities for the development of park and ride facilities. These local authorities are aware of the availability of this funding, and it is a matter for each of them to identify and prioritise projects, and apply for funding to my Department. I should add that my Department is in regular contact with these authorities about the need to bring forward projects in the interest of promoting public transport.
83 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport the status of the Bus Éireann application to his Department to provide an extra 2,000 services per week as part of the proposals for an improved bus service in Galway; his views on its proposals; the funding that has been made available in 2007 to facilitate the early introduction of these plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41649/06]
Under section 24 of the Transport Act 1958, Bus Éireann is not required to hold a licence under the Road Transport Act 1932. However, since 10 January 2001, the company is required by Ministerial direction to notify my Department of proposed new services or proposed changes to existing services at least four weeks prior to their introduction. In this context Bus Éireann submitted proposals to my Department on the 27th September, 2006 relating to a complete re-structuring of its Galway City services network. Further clarification was sought from the company and this information was recently received and is under consideration in my Department. Separately I have approved funding of up to €50 million for Bus Éireann for the purchase of 160 new buses in the period 2007/2008. The deployment of these new buses is a matter for Bus Éireann but I understand that some of the new buses will be deployed in the Galway area.
84 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Transport when he proposes to legislate for the compulsory fitting of cyclops mirrors on all heavy good vehicles. [41667/06]
In October 2006, the European Commission published a proposal for a directive to require existing HGVs to be retrofitted with enhanced mirrors on their passenger side to improve the lateral field of indirect vision of drivers. Consideration of the proposal by Member States commenced last month. Ireland together with some other Member States are seeking to have the proposal amended to also provide for the compulsory retrofitting of cyclops mirrors to certain HGVs to address the blind spot to the front of these vehicles.
I welcome the European initiative in relation to the retrofitting of enhanced mirrors to existing HGVs. The Road Safety Authority has advised my Department that, in the light of this initiative, it intends to await the outcome of the consideration of the proposal by the European institutions before proceeding further with the development of national measures in relation to the retrofitting of mirrors to existing HGVs.
86 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Transport the way he will address the situation whereby the number of passengers being carried by bus services in the Dublin area has declined in the past year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41756/06]
The number of passengers carried by Dublin Bus increased from 137.1 million in 1997 to 149.8 million in 2004. There was a decrease in passenger numbers carried in 2005 to 146 million, which coincided with the introduction of the Luas to Sandyford and Tallaght which currently carries in excess of 25 million passengers annually. However, the underlying growth on the services of Dublin Bus is strong and the Company expects to increase its passenger carryings in 2006 to approximately 148 million. I expect this trend to continue as the 100 additional buses for which I approved funding in September continue to come on-stream during 2007 and as further bus priority measures are implemented.
87 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the reason he has not set down a speed limit by way of primary or secondary legislation to dictate in all circumstances the maximum speed at which vehicles may travel over DBM base course where that surface is in use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41660/06]
The maximum default road speed limits that apply to motorways, national roads, regional and local roads and to roads in built-up areas are set down in the Road Traffic Act 2004 as 120, 100, 80 and 50 kilometres per hour respectively.
This 2004 Act also provides that each county council and city council has power to intervene and, through the making of bye-laws, to apply a special speed limit from a range of values in lieu of a default speed limit at any location where the council deems that it is appropriate to do so. In addition, under a new policy measure introduced in the 2004 Act, a county manager or a city manager has power to make a roadworks speed limit order to apply a speed limit from that range of values at a location where roadworks are being carried out.
88 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport the arrangements in place to routinely publish the many elements of the quarterly service performance reports from Bus Éireann, Iarnród Éireann and Dublin Bus that are not commercially sensitive. [41617/06]
134 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport the service performance standards he has set down for Bus Éireann, Iarnród Éireann and Dublin Bus through the 2006 memorandum of understanding; and the way he will improve same in the 2007 memorandum of understanding. [41619/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 134 together.
I have arranged for the details of the service availability and quality targets included in the 2006 Memorandum of Understanding on Service Levels and Targets (MOU) with Bus Átha Cliath, Bus Éireann and Iarnród Éireann to be forwarded to the Deputy. The memoranda for 2007 have not yet been finalised. My Department will shortly publish on its website those parts of the quarterly reports from the companies concerned relating to service quality and quantity targets.
89 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport when the break up of Aer Rianta will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41783/06]
142 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 1134 of 27 September 2006, if decisions have been made regarding the future financial sustainability of Cork Airport, in particular the funding of the new terminal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41730/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 89 and 142 together.
All three State Airport Authorities must demonstrate their financial and operational readiness for the post-independence era. Recognising that the airports will require coordinated strategies for the achievement of this operational and financial readiness, the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) has to be satisfied, in the first instance, that the transition to full autonomy takes full account of the challenges currently faced by the DAA. Between now and end 2009 the DAA will be required to finance a €1.2 billion investment programme that includes Terminal 2 and other important projects. I note that the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR) has confirmed its intention to review the current airport charges determination because of the need to take account of the DAA's 2006 Capital Investment Plan.
The actual timing of airport restructuring will be contingent on the creation of the appropriate conditions that will ensure the financial sustainability of all three State Airports. Cork's future autonomy will be considered in the light of the other challenges being faced by DAA at present. Accordingly the transition to autonomy will depend on the approach to funding capital investment into the future, the optimum mechanisms for allocating airport assets among the three State airports and all relevant aspects of the three airports' financial sustainability.
90 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 7 and 13 of 2 November 2006, if there has been further progress regarding the comprehensive proposal on integrated ticketing from the integrated ticketing project board plans to extend integrated ticketing outside the Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41731/06]
I await proposals from the Integrated Ticketing Project Board in relation to scope, timelines and a budget for the phased completion of the integrated ticketing project. I expect these details to be included in the Board's report up to end November 2006, which I expect to receive in shortly. While ultimately integrated ticketing is to be national in scope, the current focus is on implementation in the Greater Dublin Area.
91 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Transport the reason for the ongoing delay in commencing fully the Road Traffic Act 2006. [41665/06]
The Road Traffic Act 2006 was enacted on 16 July 2006 and 15 of the 23 sections were commenced with effect from 21 July 2006. The remaining provisions are being rolled out progressively, section 16 (in part) was commenced with effect from 1 September 2006 and I expect to commence some further sections of the Act shortly.
92 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport the measures he will take to reduce the cost of land acquisition for both road and public transport projects. [41710/06]
I am aware of the increasing land cost element of roads and public transport projects. Discussions are taking place between relevant Government Departments and State agencies on the issue.
95 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Transport the number of departmental staff in each of the years since the creation of his Department and the number at present; the staff cost in each of those years and at present; the number who have transferred to outside agencies, authorities, or other transport bodies that come under his Department’s remit in each of those years; and the savings in staff costs in his Department that have been made since the creation of the Road Safety Authority, the Taxi Commission, the Railway Safety Commission and so on. [41643/06]
The table outlines the number of Departmental staff and the staff cost in each of the years since the creation of my Department.
|
Year |
Staff number |
Staff cost for the year |
|
€ |
||
|
2002 |
731 |
25,709,000 |
|
2003 |
543 |
21,805,000 |
|
2004 |
542.5 |
22,869,000 |
|
2005 |
539.5 |
24,652,000 |
|
2006 to date |
692.36 |
38,368,000 (estimate) |
As the Department was established in mid 2002, the numbers shown for that year include posts from the then Department of Public Enterprise that were subsequently transferred to the Department of Communications Marine and Natural Resources (DCMNR).
Furthermore, the staff number shown for 2006 includes both additional staff from DCMNR following the transfer of responsibility for shipping and ports matters to my Department on 1st January last as well as posts that are in the course of being transferred to the recently established Road Safety Authority. The staff of the Road Safety Authority are currently being paid by the Department of Transport and this arrangement will continue until early 2007.
It is not possible to identify any staff members who may have resigned from the Department to take up positions in outside agencies, authorities, or other transport bodies that come under this Department's remit. The staff that I am aware of who are on secondment to one of these such bodies include two Assistant Principals who are currently employed by the Commission for Aviation Regulation. The cost for staff on secondment to the Railway Safety Commission for the 2006 period to date is €445,083. All staff in the Taxi Regulator's office were recruited directly by that office.
Generally speaking, staff working in bodies other than the RSA are in respect of new or expanded functions and therefore did not allow for specific savings in staff numbers in my Department.
96 Mr. English asked the Minister for Transport if he has received the details of the investigation by the IAA into a recent death on an Irish aircraft; the way he will act in regard to the findings of this investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41773/06]
The IAA is carrying out an investigation following a recent death on board an Irish aircraft. I am informed by the IAA that this investigation is still in progress. In the light of this it would not be appropriate for me to comment at this stage. I will consider, in the light of the outcome of this investigation whether any further action on my part in this matter is appropriate.
98 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied with the situation whereby rail projects scheduled to begin in 2006 as part of the Transport 21 programme were not begun; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41744/06]
I am generally satisfied with the pace of implementation of the railway upgrade programme in the first full year of investment under Transport 21. Construction has commenced on the Portlaoise train care depot and on the new Docklands station, and planning and design is well underway for a number of projects including the Navan rail link and the Western Rail Corridor. Delays in the commencement of main works have occurred in three rail projects, due to delays in the statutory Railway Order processes.
I announced my decision to grant the Railway Order for the Kildare Rail Project on the 13th August last, in line with the recommendations of the Inspector to the Public Inquiry into the project. The preparation of the Order, which took longer than expected, was completed between my Department and the Office of the Attorney General on the 1st December. I signed the Order on 5 December, further to the signing by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on 4 December in relation to his consent for the provisions of the Order affecting roads. I understand Iarnród Éireann has commenced enabling works and is proceeding with detailed design and procurement, with a view to commencing the main works early next year.
In respect of the Cork-Midleton Rail Project, I appointed an Inspector to hold a Public Inquiry into CIE's application for the project on 26th May last. The Inquiry opened on 31 October and concluded on 3 November. I am now awaiting the report of the Inspector into the Public Inquiry before I can make my decision as to whether to grant the Railway Order. Subject to completion of the Railway Order process, it is expected that the construction of the line can still be completed on schedule in 2008.
Among the various Luas/Metro projects under Transport 21 only the proposed Luas extension to Cherrywood was scheduled to commence construction before the end of 2006.
I signed the Railway Order for that extension on 14 August last. However, as the Deputy will be aware, a third party subsequently sought leave in the High Court to challenge the grant of this Order by way of judicial review and the matter is now before the courts. The scheduled completion date for this project was 2010 and every effort will be made, subject to the outcome of the current legal proceedings, to minimise the impact of the latter on this timetable.
99 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the number of Dublin Bus buses which have been converted to biofuels usage; his views on the expansion of biofuel usage to all public transport vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41752/06]
The recent Energy Green Paper set targets for biofuel penetration in transport of 2% by 2008 and 5.75% by 2010. Transport 21 also contains provision for initiatives to promote sustainable transport.
In that context, Dublin Bus is currently undertaking a pilot trial of the use of biofuels in its fleet. This involves five buses using a 5% biofuel blend. The results of this trial and similar trials being undertaken by Bus Eireann and the German-Irish Chamber of Industry and Commerce will be assessed and used to aid decision making on future biofuel penetration in the public transport sector.
101 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the future role and development of Aer Lingus with particular reference to its future ownership, shareholding and share trading; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41670/06]
103 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport his views on Ryanair’s recent acquirement of a further 31 million Aer Lingus shares bringing its stake in the former national airline to over 25% and the consequences this will have for the future of aviation in this State. [41673/06]
128 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport the implications of the 25% purchase of Aer Lingus with regard to future board decisions that can be taken by the company; and if his Department has considered raising the matter with the European or national competition authorities in view of the fact that such a minority stake may give Ryanair certain blocking rights on the activities of one of its main competitors. [41714/06]
129 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide an update on the European Commission’s investigation of the proposed take over of Aer Lingus by Ryanair; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41737/06]
278 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his vision for the future of Aer Lingus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42032/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 101, 103, 128, 129 and 278 together.
As a result of the successful flotation of the airline Aer Lingus now has the means to fulfil its potential and contribute in a positive way to the country's economic development. The company's capital requirements have been met though the IPO, which will enable it to implement its business plan.
The future development of the company is a matter for the Board and management of Aer Lingus as it is now a publicly listed company. Developments in relation to future ownership, shareholding and share trading are not within my control as Minister but subject to the various regulatory provisions relating to listed companies. The Minister for Finance and I said clearly in response to the present takeover bid that the State would not be selling its shares in Aer Lingus.
I have previously stated that the Government's view is that Ireland's strategic interest in aviation is best served by the provision of regular, safe, cost-effective and competitive air services linking the country to key business and tourism markets around the world and that the Government's strategic objectives would not be well served by a takeover of Aer Lingus by Ryanair.
The Commission is currently examining the proposed merger as notified by Ryanair pursuant to the EC Merger Regulation. A decision by the European Commission on whether to approve the merger, approve it subject to certain conditions or initiate a Phase 2 investigation must be made by 20th December.
The Government is opposed to the Ryanair bid, as it believes that a merger between the two companies would have a detrimental impact on competition in aviation services to and from Ireland. Officials from my Department have held a number of meetings with officials from the European Commission to outline the Governments position in relation to the bid and a number of legal and economic submissions have been made.
With a shareholding of over 25%, the support of Ryanair would be required for any proposed change to the company's Memorandum and Articles of Association and other changes requiring special resolutions. Ryanair will however be unable to prevent the adoption of ordinary resolutions or to have a nominee appointed to the Board unless it achieves the support of other shareholders. I do not consider that the Ryanair shareholding would have the effect of impeding the ability of Aer Lingus to develop its business and to compete with Ryanair.
105 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the progress made by his Department in relation to its disability sectoral plan; the measures which have been implemented; the measures which remain to be implemented and the timeframe for this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41765/06]
A motion of both Houses of the Oireachtas approving ‘Transport Access for All', my Department's Sectoral Plan under the Disability Act 2005, was passed on 17/18 October 2006 along with the Plans of five other Government Departments.
The Plan is now being implemented in conjunction with the Transport 21 investment programme and accessibility is being promoted in two ways. First, accessibility is being built into new transport infrastructure projects from the design stage. Secondly, funding is being provided to continue with the phased modification of existing infrastructure and facilities to make them accessible.
All major refurbishment projects at bus and rail stations, together with the construction of new stations and the purchase of trains or buses take account of the needs of people with mobility and sensory impairments. Work in this area is now being extended to taxis as well as air and marine passenger transport.
In general, the timescales for the various elements of the Plan are expected to be completed within the 10-year timeframe of Transport 21. Individual targets are set out in an Appendix to the Sectoral Plan.
107 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Transport the reason the anticipated level of PPP investment in our roads programme as set out in Estimates 2006 did not materialise in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41790/06]
143 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Transport the anticipated level of PPP investment in the national road programme for 2006; the actual amount which will be invested through PPPs for 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41770/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 143 together.
I understand from the NRA that the anticipated level of PPP investment in the national road programme for 2006 is approximately €120m. This is less than the original forecast set for the year of around €160m. The difference is due to the accelerated completion of the M1 Dundalk Western Bypass and the M4/M6 Kilcock-Enfield-Kinnegad Bypass PPP schemes, both of which were completed in 2005, months ahead of their expected completion in 2006.
Contracts for the N25 Waterford Bypass and the N7 Limerick Tunnel Scheme were awarded earlier this year and this means that in the period from 2003 (when the first PPP Contract, the M4/M6 Kilcock-Kinnegad contract was awarded), to August 2006 (when the N7 Limerick Tunnel, the most recent contract was awarded), approximately €1 billion in private finance has been secured for investment in the national road network.
The remaining PPP contracts i.e., for M3 Clonee-Kells, M50 Upgrade Phase 2, M7/ M8 Portlaoise-Castletown/Portlaoise-Cullahill and the N6 Galway-Ballinasloe, are all planned to be awarded by Quarter 3, 2007.
109 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the progress made in relation to the implementation of integrated ticketing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41740/06]
118 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding the integrated ticketing project; the timescale and budget this project is working to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41648/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 109 and 118 together.
The position in relation to the Integrated Ticketing Project was set out in the response to Parliamentary Questions Numbers 7 and 13 on 2nd November 2006. I await proposals from the Integrated Ticketing Project Board in relation to scope, timelines and a budget for the phased completion of the integrated ticketing project. I expect these details to be included in the Board's report up to end November 2006, which I expect to receive shortly.
110 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Transport the way he will deal with the findings of a recent report which revealed that Border counties experience a higher level of road deaths and fatalities than other parts of the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41763/06]
The functions assigned to the Road Safety Authority include a mandate in relation to the collation of all relevant data and statistics.
The new Authority, as part of its remit, will examine what information is currently available and what information is required on road traffic accidents from all the relevant Departments and Agencies, including the Gardaí.
The recent report referred to by the Deputy, entitled Steering to Safety which was compiled by the Health Safety Executive, will be included as part of this process. The report provides a significant degree of knowledge that will support and inform the deployment of road safety measures, which are pursued within the planning framework of the multi-annual Road Safety Strategies.
111 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Transport the progress made on the mutual recognition of penalty points between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland; and the reason for the ongoing delay. [41666/06]
The North South Work Programme, as agreed by the North South Ministerial Council, included a commitment to examine the mutual recognition of penalty points between the Republic of Ireland and the North. However, in addition to the fact that separate penalty point systems operate in the two jurisdictions on this island, the system that operates in Northern Ireland differs from that applying in Great Britain. For that reason, it was agreed that it would be more appropriate to pursue the question of mutual recognition of penalty points on the basis of the operation of the three systems and that it would also be more appropriate that it would be dealt with under the auspices of the British-Irish Council.
As Northern Ireland has the lead role for transport matters in the BIC, the authorities in that jurisdiction are taking the lead in considering this issue. It was agreed at the British-Irish Council meeting on the 9 February last that officials should examine the prospects for greater co-operation in the treatment of road traffic infringements where the penalty falls short of disqualification. Arising from work in this area I have agreed with the UK Minister for State for Transport the terms of reference proposed for a study of the feasibility of greater cooperation between us in relation to lesser road traffic infringements with a view to our officials undertaking a study on this basis and reporting back to us next year.
112 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Transport the timescale in each case for the opening up of the park and ride sites promised as part of the Transport 21 announcements and those sites outlined under the Metro west and Metro north and Dunboyne line projects. [41621/06]
Funding for park and ride facilities is included under Transport 21, to be provided in the context of rail and Luas/Metro developments, as well as through local authorities. In the case of local authorities, it is a matter for the authorities themselves to prioritise projects and apply for funding.
In relation to new Luas and Metro projects under Transport 21, the planned associated park and ride facilities will open at a time which will coincide with the opening of the project concerned. For instance, Metro North and Metro West are scheduled to be completed in 2012 and 2014 respectively and the planned associated park and ride facilities will open to coincide with those dates.
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 major park and ride facility at Pace on the M3 interchange will be included in this phase of the project.
The current position regarding this phase is that detailed design work is underway and Iarnród Éireann expect to submit a Railway Order application in mid 2007 for statutory approval to enable the railway upgrade works to proceed with a view to completion of phase 1 in 2009, as provided for in Transport 21.
115 Mr. English asked the Minister for Transport if he remains confident that the development of a second terminal at Dublin Airport remains on time and on budget; if the verification team he appointed to examine the cost of the project continues to monitor this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41772/06]
The Dublin Airport Authority has confirmed to me that work on the development of Terminal 2 remains on programme and on budget. Planning approval was granted by Fingal County Council on 25 October 2006 and the matter is now the subject of appeal to An Bord Pleanála. Design and procurement activities remain on programme in support of the planned commencement of construction works in April 2007, subject to planning approval, and in line with the Government mandate of delivering Terminal 2 before the end of 2009.
With regard to the work of the verification team, the consultants appointed by my Department to verify the specification and cost of the second terminal concluded that the methodology, approach and execution of the planning objectives and considerations for passengers adopted by the DAA accords with best practice. They also found that the estimated cost of the new terminal is within industry norms for this type of project in a European capital city.
The work of the verification team has now been completed and the report is available on my Departments website. (www.transport.ie)
119 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if he has received costings from the Railway Procurement Agency for the undergrounding for the proposed Metro north from the city centre to past Ballymun; if not, the way the proposed method of construction was arrived at; and if he will seek such a costing from the RPA. [41662/06]
The Railway Procurement Agency is currently looking at a number of options and is engaged in consultation with stakeholders on the best design solution for Ballymun. No decision has yet been made on the proposed method of construction.
Based on figures published by the World Bank, I am advised that the cost of an underground metro is five to six times the cost of an at-grade metro. The additional costs would mainly be in the construction of deep underground stations — which can cost considerably more than an at-grade station. Running underground through Ballymun would require two (DCU and Ballymun) additional deep underground stations.
In addition to the cost implications, the RPA's preference for locating as much as possible of the line overground is based on sound transportation and planning grounds.
The success of Luas has demonstrated that the public is attracted to accessible public transport. Going underground, or even elevated, decreases the accessibility of the system. Metro only goes underground in areas where there is simply no room at street level to accommodate it. It is standard practice around the world to bring metros above ground wherever possible. Going underground also adds to the construction timetable and brings a higher level of construction risk associated with tunnelling.
120 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Transport his views on the concerns of Irish Rail that DART services may be affected due to delays in a carriage refurbishment contract; his further views on whether emergency contingency plans must now be put in place to ensure that commuter services are not affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41751/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question number 354 on 28 November 2006. The position remains the same.
121 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Transport the strategy he has in place to curb traffic associated with the school run. [41652/06]
In 2005, An Taisce began a pilot project of a Safer Routes to School scheme, under their Green Flag programme. The Dublin Transport Office is funding the project from the Traffic Management Grants Scheme, which is funded by my Department. This is a two-year pilot, covering the 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 school years, and involving 30 schools, primary and post-primary, in the GDA.
I am advised that the results of this pilot will be considered in 2007, to help inform a new initiative to assist schools and parents in better managing the transport of children to and from school.
122 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Transport the reports he has commissioned with regard to the construction of a new eastern bypass connecting the M50 to the south Dublin docks; when he expects to receive such a report; if he will make it publically available; and the process that will be involved in the progression or otherwise of the project. [41712/06]
Under Section 17 of the Roads Act, 1993, the National Roads Authority has overall responsibility for the planning and supervision of works for the construction and maintenance of national roads.
I indicated at the launch of Transport 21 that feasibility study work would be undertaken on the Eastern Bypass. This work is currently being pursued by the National Roads Authority.
123 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Transport the legality of amending the existing bilateral agreement between Ireland and the US, in the absence of an agreement on an open skies agreement between the EU and the US; if this can now proceed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41769/06]
I informed Government in September this year of my intention to pursue all possible avenues to provide for the entry into force at the earliest possible date of the EU US open skies agreement including the transitional arrangements relating to Ireland already agreed between the EU and the US. I also indicated that, in the event that an EU US agreement is not achievable within a reasonable timeframe, I intend to seek to implement, in accordance with applicable Community law, the essential elements of the transitional arrangements relating to Ireland by way of an amendment to the Ireland US bilateral air services agreement.
While allowing some time for clarification of the intentions of the US administration following the US elections, I am considering all of the options to progress this matter as soon as possible including the legal issues arising under Community law in relation to an amendment of the Ireland US bilateral air services agreement.
124 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport the role of his Department in relation to the co-ordination of park and ride and public transport services, and feeder bus services to these sites; and the reason his Department is not proactive in the provision of these sites and services to them. [41626/06]
In relation to the provision of transport services and infrastructure, including park and ride facilities, my Department's role is a policy one, in the overall context of transport strategy. In this context, the key framework is provided by Transport 21, underpinned, in the Greater Dublin Area, by the Dublin Transportation Office's Platform for Change.
The co-ordination of public transport links with park and ride facilities is a matter for the relevant public transport providers, park and ride facility operators and local authorities, as appropriate.
125 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Transport his proposals in relation to the roadside sale of cars; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41758/06]
Section 71 of the Roads Act 1993 sets down a specific procedure enabling Local Authorities to deal with unauthorised signs, caravans and vehicles on public roads. The enforcement of this legislation is a matter for the Local Authorities and the Garda Síochána.
126 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Transport his proposals to bring forward legislation to allow for penalties to be applied to local authorities and specific personnel for non-compliance with road safety standards at roadworks. [41659/06]
Under Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993, the maintenance and construction of roads is a matter for the road authorities concerned, subject, in the case of national roads, to standards specified by the NRA pursuant to Section 19 of that Act. I have no proposals of the kind referred to by the Deputy.
127 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport the public transport projects which are to receive capital funding within the Estimates 2007; the relevant funds allocated to each project; and the nature of the works that will be undertaken. [41706/06]
The 2007 Estimates assign €777 million to public transport investment under the Transport 21 programme.
The following initial allocations have been made but it is important to stress that these are subject to ongoing review over the course of the year as part of the Department's active management of the Transport 21 allocations:
Planning and implementation of LUAS and metro projects: €195 million
The CIE capital investment programme, including the railway safety programme, planning and implementation of railway development projects and additional buses: €496 million
DTO traffic management grants programme: €40 million
Planning and implementation of integration measures in the Greater Dublin Area (ticketing, park and ride etc): €16 million
Provincial traffic management and park and ride facilities: €15 million
Public transport accessibility: €15 million.
131 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Transport the specific measures being pursued to tackle driver fatigue related road accidents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41755/06]
The Road Safety Authority (RSA), which has responsibility for road safety advertising and promotion, has acknowledged that driver fatigue could be a contributory factor in up to a fifth of driver deaths in Ireland. They also say that driving when very tired is as dangerous as driving while over the drink drive limit.
The Authority revealed these facts at the launch of their winter road safety campaign in October 2006, which highlights the dangers of driver fatigue. That campaign includes a 30 second radio advert and poster advertising in garage forecourts that are designed to communicate the dangers of fatigue when driving.
Details of the Authority's current campaign on dealing with driver fatigue are available on its website at www.rsa.ie
133 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Transport when he will announce his funding allocations to regional airports; the level of State funding he regards as sufficient to develop our regional airports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41759/06]
Transport 21 includes a provision of 100 million Euro in exchequer grants for capital works, including both safety/security projects and developmental projects, at the six regional airports over ten years to 2015.
The capital expenditure grant scheme for the regional airports which my Department launched earlier this year involves a planning and implementation framework extending to 2010 and a budget of 65 million Euro out of this total of 100 million Euro. The grant applications from all six regional airports are being assessed and prioritised by my Department with the assistance of expert advice and I expect to be in a position to announce each airport's allocation under the scheme in the near future.
It is also my intention to announce the 2006 allocation for each regional airport under a new scheme which provides for subvention of operational expenditure incurred by these airports in the provision of core airport services. I believe that in combination, the new schemes will help to focus on the public service obligation role of the regional airports and boost their contribution to balanced regional development.
136 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Transport if he supports a zero alcohol level for inexperienced drivers; if so, when this measure will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41782/06]
The Road Safety Authority is currently developing a new Road Safety Strategy for the period 2007 onwards. The Strategy is expected to be finalised in the first quarter of 2007.
With regard to the possibility of reducing the blood alcohol concentration limit for learner drivers to zero, I expect the Road Safety Authority to carry out a detailed examination of this issue, taking into account matters such as EU and best international practice. I would be happy for my Department to engage with the Road Safety Authority on the outcome of such a detailed examination.
137 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Transport the role of his Department in relation to the local authority development plan process; the number of personnel in his Department dedicated to inputting his Department’s views on development plans; the mechanisms in place to ensure that national transport policy is reflected in local authority development plans; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41631/06]
The main role of the Department of Transport to date in this area has focused on providing an effective input into the preparation of the National Spatial Strategy and the Regional Planning Guidelines. These in turn provide the critical spatial and regional policy underpinning for local authority development plans. When preparing their development plans local authorities are obliged by law to have regard to the relevant Regional Planning Guidelines and to take account of any relevant policies of the Government or Ministers.
The Department has also made an active input into the development of regional land use and transport strategies for the principal provincial cities and their surrounding regions, such as the Cork Area Strategic Plan. It was also an active participant in the work of the Dublin Transportation Office in the preparation of its long term strategy A Platform for Change. These strategies in turn influence the content of local authority development plans.
The Department will continue to be active in this area in the future. While there are no staff dedicated solely to this work, staff from a number of Divisions across the Department contribute as required. The Department has also appointed liaison officers for each of the regions who monitor developments in relation to the implementation of the Regional Planning Guidelines for their region.
144 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Transport the impact of the Critical Infrastructure Act 2006 on the development of projects contained in Transport 21; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41777/06]
The primary purpose of the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006 is to improve the efficiency of the development consent process for specific types of strategic infrastructure, including major transport projects of the type provided for in Transport 21. It restructures An Bord Pleanála to create a special named division of the Board to deal exclusively with strategic infrastructure projects and provides for a ‘fast track' procedure for planning applications for major infrastructure projects directly to the new division.
An Bord Pleanála will also replace the Minister for Transport as the consenting authority for Railway Orders. The effect of this is that proposals for rail infrastructure, which are subject to the Railway Order procedure, will be submitted directly to the Board.
The Act also provides for a number of significant improvements to the consent process for strategic infrastructure, including further provisions regulating judicial review; the removal of the obligation to hold an oral hearing in all cases; pre-application and pre-approval actions by An Bord Pleanala and the requirement on the Board to have regard to the national interest. These improvements will apply, inter alia, to strategic transport infrastructure projects, thereby ensuring their delivery as quickly as possible consistent with good planning and environmental assessment.
Commencement of the relevant provisions of the 2006 Act, is a matter for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
147 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport the arrangements in place to ensure that the numbers for each of the penalty point offence categories are routinely published; the arrangements that are in place to ensure that his Department is routinely informed of the latest data and trends; and if he will provide this Deputy and the Houses of the Oireachtas with the latest figures provided to him on the number of penalty point offences by offence category. [41618/06]
271 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the number of motorists who have to date received penalty points; the number who have been given the maximum number of points; the number who have lost their licence on foot of same; the number to whom licences have been restored after achieving maximum loss of points; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42018/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 147 and 271 together.
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for ensuring that penalty points are endorsed on a licence record. Data in relation to penalty points is held on the National Driver File, which is administered by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Data on penalty points is compiled by that Department and made available to the Road Safety Authority. I have asked the RSA to forward the most up to date data to the Department when available.
148 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the way he will include private bus operators with licences approved by him under the 1932 Act in the integrated ticketing system; the way and when he will do this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41510/06]
Last July, I established an Integrated Ticketing Project Board with responsibility for delivering the project and a representative of licensed private bus operators is a member of the Board and is participating in its work.
As part of the phased introduction of smartcard based integrated ticketing, Morton's Coaches, a licensed private bus operator, successfully launched smartcards as a ‘proof of concept' on its services in April 2004. Morton's Coaches continues to participate in the integrated ticketing project and is represented on the Project Board through the licensed private bus operator representative.
149 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will give a breakdown per constituency for the past five years of projects funded by the national lottery moneys through his Department. [41829/06]
I can inform the Deputy that there were no projects funded by National Lottery monies through my Department in the past five years.
150 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of non-Garda clerical staff for each station in the Louth Meath division and by way of comparison for Naas, Longford, Athlone, and Cavan Garda stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41834/06]
The number of non-Garda clerical staff in Garda Stations in the Louth/Meath Division as of 30 November 2006 is set out in a table.
|
Station |
Number of clerical staff |
|
Drogheda |
11 |
|
Dundalk |
4 |
|
Kells |
3 |
|
Trim |
3 |
|
Ashbourne |
2 |
|
Dunboyne |
1 |
|
Balbriggan |
3 |
|
Skerries |
1 |
|
Navan |
4 |
The number of non-Garda clerical staff in Naas, Longford, Athlone and Cavan Garda Stations as at 30 November 2006 is set out in the table.
|
Station |
Number of clerical staff |
|
Naas |
8 |
|
Longford |
4 |
|
Athlone |
5 |
|
Cavan |
3 |
151 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí assigned to each station in the Louth Meath Division in 2006, 2002, 1996 and by way of comparison for Naas, Longford, Athlone, and Cavan Garda stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41835/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength (all ranks) of each Garda Station in the Louth/Meath Division as at 4 December, 2006, 31 December, 2002 and 31 December, 1997 was as set out in the table.
|
Station |
4/12/06 |
31/12/02 |
31/12/97 |
|
Drogheda |
92 |
89 |
82 |
|
Castlebellingham |
4 |
4 |
1 |
|
Clougherhead |
2 |
3 |
1 |
|
Dunleer |
4 |
4 |
2 |
|
Laytown |
10 |
7 |
6 |
|
Dundalk |
108 |
96 |
90 |
|
Carlingford |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
Hackballscross |
10 |
14 |
13 |
|
Dromad |
7 |
13 |
15 |
|
Omeath |
8 |
14 |
11 |
|
Louth |
2 |
1 |
2 |
|
Blackrock |
5 |
4 |
3 |
|
Kells |
37 |
31 |
30 |
|
Crossakeel |
0 |
1 |
2 |
|
Athboy |
6 |
6 |
4 |
|
Oldcastle |
4 |
4 |
3 |
|
Nobber |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
Trim |
25 |
24 |
25 |
|
Kilmessan |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
Summerhill |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Longwood |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Enfield |
14 |
16 |
20 |
|
Ballivor |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Ashbourne |
49 |
37 |
23 |
|
Dunboyne |
14 |
15 |
15 |
|
Dunshaughlin |
8 |
11 |
12 |
|
Kilcock |
5 |
6 |
6 |
|
Balbriggan |
33 |
35 |
31 |
|
Skerries |
11 |
10 |
8 |
|
Lusk |
4 |
4 |
4 |
|
Rush |
7 |
4 |
5 |
|
Garristown |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
Navan |
48 |
47 |
52 |
|
Ardee |
10 |
9 |
9 |
|
Collon |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Duleek |
3 |
3 |
4 |
|
Slane |
3 |
4 |
3 |
|
Total |
549 |
532 |
498 |
The personnel strengths (all ranks) of Naas, Longford, Athlone and Cavan Garda Stations as at 4 December, 2006, 31 December, 2002 and 31 December, 1997 was as set out in the table.
|
Station |
4/12/06 |
31/12/02 |
31/12/97 |
|
Naas |
92 |
78 |
69 |
|
Longford |
52 |
40 |
39 |
|
Athlone |
55 |
46 |
42 |
|
Cavan |
67 |
57 |
42 |
The Garda personnel strengths for 1996 are not readily available.
I should add that it is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.
152 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to enhance Garda training in order that additional members of An Garda Síochána will be trained in the use of firearms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41836/06]
153 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí who have completed training in the use of firearms, with a breakdown for each Garda division; if he is satisfied with these numbers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41837/06]
158 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when dedicated firearms training facilities will be made available to members of An Garda Síochána holding firearms certificates. [41851/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 152, 153 and 158 together.
I have been informed by Garda authorities that the total number of Gardaí that have completed training in the use of firearms, as at the 4th December, 2006 was 2942 (all ranks). Garda management state that they are satisfied that the members trained meet their current operational needs.
I have been further informed by the Garda Authorities that a Garda Working Group on Firearms Training, recommended that not more than 10% of the uniformed divisional strength, in addition to the detective branch, should be authorised/trained in firearms. Any consideration to increase the number of trained members in any Division takes account of the recommendation of the Assistant Commissioner for the Region concerned.
A number of avenues are currently being pursued in order to provide An Garda Síochána with dedicated firearms training facilities. These include:
Replacement of the existing firearms range at Garda Headquarters in Phoenix Park, Dublin, with a new underground facility,
Development of Firearms Training capabilities at the recently purchased Dromard House near the Garda Training College at Templemore, and
Examination by OPW of Garda proposals to develop a facility which would serve the wider needs of the Dublin Metropolitan Region and Eastern Seaboard.
The timescale for the delivery of these initiatives has yet to be determined. In the interim, military ranges are being utilised to provide the requisite training for Garda personnel.
Garda management inform me that the refurbishment of two rooms at the firing range at Garda Headquarters, as a temporary measure, to accommodate the Virtual Firearms Automated Training Systems (FATS) and the delivery of the Virtual Firearms Automated Training Systems are both scheduled for this month.
154 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the detection rates for each Garda station in the Louth Meath division, and by way of comparison for the Naas, Longford, Athlone, and Cavan Garda stations. [41838/06]
The figures for headline offences detected for each Garda Division are available in the relevant Garda Annual Reports, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas library.
155 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the ratio of the number of gardaí to the number of reported incidents for each Garda division; the same ratio for each Garda station in the Louth Meath division, and by way of comparison for Store Street, Naas, Longford, Athlone, and Cavan Garda stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41839/06]
Detailed statistics in relation to headline and non headline offences are contained in the annual reports of An Garda Síochána which are available in the Oireachtas library. These figures include analysis on the basis of Garda Divisions with comparisons per 1000 of population. The analysis sought by the Deputy of reported incidents by comparisons to garda numbers in the stations referred to is not available. I refer the Deputy to his Parliamentary Question No. 151 of 6 December, 2006, which contains the number of Gardaí assigned to each station in the Louth Meath Division and Naas, Longford, Athlone, and Cavan Garda Stations.
156 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the fact that we live in peaceful times in the State, it is still necessary for gardaí to escort the transportation of commercial explosives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41840/06]
Any person wishing to move explosives within the State must, in accordance with Statutory Instrument 115 of 1995, obtain the prior approval of the Garda Síochána. When granting such approval, the Garda Síochána may impose conditions on the transportation of the explosives which they consider necessary in the interests of safety and security.
I have been informed by the Commissioner that Garda escorts are provided for explosives in transport to prevent theft by criminal and subversive elements and that the current security assessment indicates that some criminal and subversive elements still pose a threat. However, the policy of providing such escorts is kept under regular review with a view to reducing Garda commitments where feasible.
157 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has proposals to change the way judges are nominated and appointed. [41850/06]
The Judicial Appointments Advisory Board was established pursuant to the Courts and Court Officers Act 1995. The purpose of the Board is to identify persons and inform the Government of the suitability of those persons for judicial office.
The Board consists of the Chief Justice, the Presidents of the High Court, Circuit Court and District Court, the Attorney General, nominated representatives of the Bar Council and the Law Society and three persons nominated by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
Section 16 of the Act provides that the Government, when advising the President in relation to the appointment of a person to a judicial office, must first consider persons who have been recommended by the Board. It is important to note that the Board cannot submit nor recommend the name of a person unless that person meets the eligibility requirements set out by law in relation to the post in question. Furthermore, the Board cannot recommend the name of any person unless in the opinion of the Board the person concerned has displayed in his/her practice as a solicitor or barrister a degree of competence and a degree of probity appropriate to and consistent with the appointment concerned, is suitable on grounds of character and temperament, is otherwise suitable and complies with section 19 of the Act (this section provides that a person who wishes to be considered for appointment to judicial office must undertake in writing his or her agreement, if appointed to judicial office, to take such training as may be required by the Chief Justice or the President of the Court to which the person concerned is appointed).
Section 17 of the Act provides that the procedures do not apply where the Government proposes to advise the President to appoint to judicial office a person who is already a judge or, subject to certain conditions, holds certain European or international judicial offices as set out in section 5 of the Courts (Supplemental Provisions) Act 1961 as amended.
The Standards in Public Office Act 2001 requires applicants to certify that their tax affairs are in order. Section 22(1) of the Act prohibits the Board from recommending a person for judicial office unless the person has furnished to the Board a tax clearance certificate and a statutory declaration that his/her tax affairs are in order.
While the ultimate decision as to who should be recommended to the President for appointment to judicial office still rests with the Government, the practice has been, since the establishment of the Board, to recommend only persons who have been recommended as suitable for appointment to judicial office by the Board, in other words, a person whom the Board considers, in addition to having the necessary legal qualifications and experience, has displayed competence in his/her profession, is suitable on grounds of character and temperament and is otherwise suitable.
I have no plans to alter the way in which judges are nominated or appointed. However, the operation of the law continues to be kept under review in my Department.
159 Mr. Cuffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will request An Garda Síochána to investigate the mystery illness of former Russian premier Yegor Gaidar on his visit here, in view of the fact that news of his illness comes after a series of mysterious incidents involving Russian public figures over the past month; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41867/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that enquiries are being conducted under the supervision of a Detective Chief Superintendent into reports on this matter in order to trace the movements of the person in question and to establish the facts. I am further informed that these enquiries are ongoing.
160 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for citizenship by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; if he will expedite a response to the application; the timeframe for such applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41879/06]
An application for naturalisation from the individual in question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department on 9 September 2004.
I am advised that a decision on this application will be communicated to the person concerned in the coming days.
161 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Irish Missing Person’s Helpline received funding from his Department in 1999 to 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41880/06]
My Department did not provide funding to the Irish Missing Person's Helpline in 1999 and 2000.
However, funding of €110,000 in respect of a National Missing Persons Helpline was made available by my Department in 2002 and 2003. It was channelled through the Victim Support organisation, and was in addition to the ongoing funding that organisation received for the provision of services to victims of crime. This funding of €110,000 was provided subject to the conditions that no funding beyond the year 2003 should be implied, and audited accounts should be provided to my Department on a calendar year basis. To date no audited accounts have been received in my Department.
In March 2005, it was decided that continued funding of the Victim Support organisation could no longer be justified due to serious concerns in relation to governance, accountability for public funds and poor service levels, after a lengthy period of instability within the organisation. I understand that Victim Support closed down its headquarters operation during 2005 and that a number of staff were made redundant, including the person employed to operate the Missing Persons Helpline. My Department had no role in the decision of Victim Support to make a number of its staff redundant, other than to insist that statutory requirements (notice, holiday pay, etc.) be met and that the interests of the staff be protected.
162 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of community gardaí based in areas (details supplied) for each of the years 2000 for date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41890/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength (all ranks) of the Community Policing unit at Lucan, Clondalkin and Rathcoole Garda Stations as at 31 December, 2000 to 2005 and as at 31 October, 2006 was as set out in the table.
|
Date |
Lucan |
Clondalkin |
Rathcoole |
|
31/12/00 |
5 |
9 |
0 |
|
31/12/01 |
8 |
10 |
0 |
|
31/12/02 |
4 |
9 |
0 |
|
31/12/03 |
5 |
10 |
0 |
|
31/12/04 |
5 |
12 |
1 |
|
31/12/05 |
7 |
15 |
1 |
|
31/10/06 |
7 |
11 |
1 |
I should add that it is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.
163 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of community gardaí in the Bridewell Garda station; the number of gardaí trained there for the use of mountain bikes; the number of mountain bikes available in the station; and when the required number of bikes will be available. [41953/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of the Community Policing Unit at the Bridewell Garda Station as at 4 December 2006 was 2 Sergeants and 14 Gardaí. I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the number of Gardaí at the Bridewell Garda Station trained in the use of mountain bikes as at 4 December, 2006 was 9 (all ranks).
Local Garda Management report that there are currently two mountain bikes available for use at the Bridewell Garda Station. One further mountain bike has been allocated to the Bridewell Garda Station and will be delivered in the coming weeks. Available Mountain Bikes are shared among the trained members, who would, in the normal course, find themselves rostered for duty at different times.
I should add that it is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.
164 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 207 and 209 on the 21 November 2006, if steps will be taken to ensure that the law is enforced if betting shops proceed to introduce gambling slot machines in betting shops in January 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41956/06]
In the event that betting shops introduce new gaming technologies to their premises, it is likely that, without any legislative change, there may be offences under betting legislation and gaming legislation. In such circumstances, the Deputy can be confident that the matter will be investigated by the Gardaí.
165 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of incidents of vandalism and anti-social behaviour reported to the Bridewell Garda station, Dublin 7 over the weekend of 17 to 19 November 2006; the number of persons apprehended and the number charged for those incidents; if Garda patrols have been increased at weekends to cover this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41957/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that a total of twenty incidents of criminal damage were reported in respect of the district in question on the dates mentioned. Fourteen of these incidents arose over a period of time on the 19 November, 2006 and refer to damage to vehicles. Two suspects were arrested in relation to these fourteen incidents and were released without charge, pending further investigation.
Seven public order incidents were reported for the same period with eight persons arrested and charged with various offences under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act. These incidents of public order are not connected to the incidents of criminal damage.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is regularly patrolled by uniform and plain clothes Gardaí with a view to ensuring a concentrated and visible Garda presence in the area. Local mobile and foot patrols have been increased in the area in addition to patrols being performed under Operation Anvil.
I am further informed by the Garda authorities that current policing plans in the area are predicated on the prevention of anti-social and public order offences; the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy will continue to be central to the delivery of a policing service to the area.
166 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the assets seized and paid over by the Criminal Assets Bureau during 2005 and to date in 2006; the amount of funds or property in each case; the criminal activity involved in each case; and the general location of the activity in each case. [41958/06]
I am informed by An Garda Síochána that the details of the activities of the Criminal Assets Bureau since its establishment in 1996 are contained in the Annual Reports of the Criminal Assets Bureau. These reports are quite comprehensive and include details of the number of cases commenced, money frozen under the Proceeds of Crime Act and details of money collected by the Bureau under the provisions of Revenue and Social Welfare legislation. Copies of the Annual Reports are available from the Oireachtas library.
Statistics in relation to monies seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau during 2005 are set out in the table.
|
€ |
Stg£ |
$ |
|
|
Interim orders under Section 2 |
5,860,335 |
0 |
314,619.54 |
|
Interlocutory Orders under Section 3 |
1,200,525.57 |
26,760.00 |
130,000.00 |
|
Disposal Orders under Section 4 A |
2,002,738.41 |
N/A |
N/A |
|
Receivership Orders under Section 7 |
5,180,485.00 |
21,040.00 |
130,000.00 |
Action by officials of the Revenue Commissioners attached to CAB have resulted in a total of €16,376,599.00 tax being collected. Action by officials of the Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs have resulted in savings of €216,054 to the Exchequer. Figures for the year 2006 will be provided in the report for that year when it is completed.
I am advised that, for operational reasons, it is not appropriate for the Bureau to categorise proceedings as being linked to particular criminal activity. However, I am informed that the majority of applications brought before the Courts over the last five years under legislation governing the proceeds of crime have, in general, been drug related. It is not the policy of the Bureau to specify locations for a number of reasons including the fact that many of the ongoing proceeds of crime applications are protected by "in camera" rules.
167 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that inspections for public service vehicle licences can take up to six months from time of application in County Waterford; his views on whether this is causing great difficulty for bus operators in County Waterford who wish to submit an application to the Department of Transport for a passenger licence; if he will hold discussions with Garda management with a view to securing additional resources to carry out inspections in respect of PSV licences in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41970/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the general timeframe for inspections of large PSV vehicles is between 4 to 6 weeks from the time of receipt of application. Delays in Waterford County only arise if certain matters require further attention as a result of the initial inspection.
I am also informed that once the inspection has been completed and matters are in order the licence is issued forthwith.
I am further informed that this timeframe should not cause difficulty for bus operators in County Waterford who wish to submit an application to the Department of Transport for a passenger licence. Garda management is satisfied that there are currently enough resources allocated to this particular area.
168 Ms C. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the stage the application of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is at; when a decision will be made on this application; if the passports of the individuals concerned will be returned to them prior to 14 December 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41971/06]
I understand from the Immigration Division of my Department that the application for residence in respect of the person concerned has been approved and that the passports have been returned.
169 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the residency application of a person (details supplied); and if a decision will be reached soon, in view of the fact that the person’s current residency permit is due to expire soon. [41973/06]
I understand that the Immigration Division of my Department has recently been in contact with the legal representative of the person concerned informing them of the decision regarding his application for permission to remain in the State.
170 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of a visa application for persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41974/06]
The applications referred to by the Deputy were received in the Dublin Visa Office on 1 December, 2006. A decision in respect of the applications in question will be made in the coming weeks.
171 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a holiday visa has been refused in the case of a person (details supplied); if he will review the decision made in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41992/06]
There is no current visa application for the said person with my Department. The person in question was refused a holiday visa by my Department on 22 July 2004. No appeal of this decision was received.
The period allowed to make an appeal is now passed. If the person concerned still wishes to travel to Ireland a fresh application for a visa must be lodged.
173 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on granting extended residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42010/06]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 158 of Thursday, 11 May, 2006 (ref: 17811/06) and the written reply to that Question. The position is unchanged.
174 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the revenue accrued in each of the past two years to date from penalty points and parking fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42030/06]
Information on revenue accruing on foot of payments from fixed charge notices and parking fees is not readily available and could only be obtained by the expenditure of a disproportionate amount of staff time and resources. I have no responsibility in relation to revenue accruing from clamping carried out by or on behalf of local authorities.
I can inform the Deputy that €15.258 million was collected through the Garda Vote in 2004 under the Road Traffic Acts and in 2005 €14.283 million was collected. These amounts are in respect of all offences under the Road Traffic Acts for which monies were collected inclusive of fixed charges, clamping and parking fees. The amount collected this year to date under the Garda Vote is €15.197 million. This figure is provisional.
The revenue accruing to the Courts Vote in 2004 was €8.810 million under the Road Traffic Acts and in 2005 €7.526 million was collected. This also covers revenue in respect of all offences under the Road Traffic Acts inclusive of fixed charges, clamping and parking fees. The amount collected this year to date under the Courts Vote is €14.8 million.
All revenue received is surrendered to the Exchequer as extra exchequer receipts and are accounted for in the Appropriation Accounts.
175 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the retirement ages for judges in the various courts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42047/06]
In accordance with section 47 of the Courts and Court Officers Act, 1995, the retirement age for judges of the High and Supreme Courts is 70 years if appointed on or after 15 December, 1995 and 72 years if appointed before 15 December, 1995. Judges of the Circuit Court retire at 70 years, in accordance with section 18 of the Courts (Supplemental Provisions) Act, 1961.
Retirement age is set at 65 years for judges of the District Court in accordance with section 30(1) of the Courts (Supplemental Provisions) Act, 1961. These judges may, however, be continued in office on a yearly basis up to age 70 under section 2 of the Courts of Justice (District Court) Act, 1949.
176 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the breakdown of the number of recorded incidents of the various categories of headline and non-headline crime in Youghal, County Cork over the past five years respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42048/06]
The figures for headline offences recorded for each Garda Division are available in the relevant Garda Annual Reports, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas library.
177 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of children under the care of the Health Service Executive who have been reported missing to An Garda Síochána; the number of times that each has been reported missing; the number of crimes committed by such children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42053/06]
178 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of crimes that have been committed against children under the care of the Health Service Executive who have been reported missing to An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42054/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 177 and 178 together.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that statistics on the number of missing children in the care of the Health Service Executive are not readily available. However, analysis carried out at the Garda Missing Persons Bureau earlier this year indicated that 372 children in care were reported missing on 3,715 occasions between October 1999 and February 2005. The frequency with which children were reported missing is shown in the table.
|
No. of Children |
No. of Times Reported Missing |
|
70 |
One time |
|
147 |
2 to 5 times |
|
55 |
6 to 9 times |
|
45 |
10 to 19 times |
|
25 |
20 to 29 times |
|
9 |
30 to 39 times |
|
10 |
40 to 49 times |
|
1 |
50 times |
|
1 |
51 times |
|
2 |
59 times |
|
1 |
61 times |
|
1 |
70 times |
|
1 |
77 times |
|
1 |
81 times |
|
1 |
99 times |
|
1 |
151 times |
|
1 |
169 times |
I am further informed that the research also indicated that 45 of the 372 children were the victims of criminal offences. Some 158 of the 372 children were recorded as offenders.
The analysis was conducted as part of a review of the Garda missing persons policy. On foot of the analysis An Garda Síochána commenced working with the Health Service Executive to develop a protocol to deal with children in care who are reported missing. The purpose of the protocol is to reduce the number of children in care reported missing and to minimise the risk of harm to children when they are missing.
179 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the investigation into the death of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42055/06]
A Detective Superintendent from outside the relevant Garda Division was appointed immediately after the incident to carry out a detailed investigation into all the circumstances surrounding the person in question's arrest, detention and removal to hospital. The Garda authorities submitted a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions on the matter and furnished a copy to me also. The Director issued instructions that no prosecution should ensue.
An inquest into this tragic death is ongoing at present. An inquest is an independent inquiry to ascertain the cause of death and the Coroner has statutory duties and powers, including the power to call witnesses. The Coroner cannot consider questions of civil or criminal liability. When the inquest has been completed and a verdict returned I will consider the matter further.
180 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will commence section 16(1)(b) of the Criminal Evidence Act 1992; and if so, when he will do so. [42056/06]
Section 16 of the Criminal Evidence Act, 1992, as amended, makes provision for the video recording of any evidence given, in relation to a sexual offence or an act involving violence, by a person under 17 years of age through a live television link in proceedings relating to indictable offences. The relevant subsection — (1)(a) — was commenced in 1993. It will be noted that this subsection covers persons under 14 years of age also.
Section 16 also makes provision — in subsection (1)(b) — for the video recording of a statement made by a person under 14 years of age (in respect of whom a sexual offence or an offence involving violence is alleged to have been committed) during an interview with a member of the Garda Síochána or any other person who is competent for the purpose. It provides that such a video recording shall be admissible at a trial as evidence, provided that the person whose statement was video recorded is available at the trial for cross examination.
A committee established by my predecessor as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has drawn up Good Practice Guidelines, covering a number of areas. In addition, the committee made a number of recommendations, including recommendations that:
there should be sufficient suitable facilities available for video recording evidential interviews;
there should be a joint national programme in place for training interviewers, which should be regularly reviewed. In tandem with this, there will be a need for a national training programme for all professionals who are likely to have reference to the Guidelines.
I wish to assure the Deputy that I attach the highest importance to the setting up of these facilities. Officials from my Department are actively working on setting up these facilities in conjunction with An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive and the Office of Public Works. My Department plans to have a network of suitable facilities available to An Garda Síochána to video record evidential interviews established at a number of locations throughout the country early in 2007. Officials from my Department accompanied by members of An Garda Síochána have visited a similar facility in this jurisdiction which is used for therapeutic purposes and also a facility in Northern Ireland, and received briefing on training and advice on other relevant service issues such as equipment and fitting out. A specification for the facilities has now been drawn up, on the basis of which my Department is identifying and evaluating accommodation available with a view to securing suitable accommodation. Work will then commence on fitting out and equipping the facilities.
The Garda Síochána is arranging for the training of a number of selected officers to enable them to conduct such interviews in accordance with good practice. It is expected that this training will be completed in January.
I intend to commence subsection (1)(b) as a matter of priority once the necessary arrangements are in place.
181 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the necessary equipment for the implementation of digital recording of Garda interviews will be in place; the estimated cost of the equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42057/06]
The current analogue system is in accordance with recommendations contained in the third report of the Steering Committee on Audio and Audio/Video Recording of Garda Questioning of Detained Persons. Garda authorities inform me that consequently, there is no proposal at present to purchase digital equipment for the recording of Garda interviews.
With regard to future and additional requirements the Department has recently approved Garda proposals for the provision of additional systems and fit-out of further interview rooms and a procurement exercise for this work is currently under way.
Where a Garda station is not equipped with an audio/video system, a person to be interviewed in accordance with the Regulations will be taken to the nearest Garda station with such equipment. The provision of additional facilities will reduce the need to transport persons away from the investigating Station for the purposes of recording interviews.
182 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí used as standing posts outside embassies, consulates and other buildings of foreign diplomatic missions; the ranks of those gardaí; the estimated cost to An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42058/06]
183 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí used as standing posts outside Irish official buildings; the ranks of those gardaí; the estimated cost to An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42059/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 182 and 183 together.
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of personnel and resources, that the Garda Síochána provide security at various locations including embassies, consulates and buildings occupied by foreign diplomatic missions based on an assessment of the threat levels involved. I am further informed that it is not the practice of the Garda Síochána to provide details of members engaged on such duties for operational and security reasons.
184 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will amend section 10 of the Sex Offenders Act 2001 to require persons convicted of a sexual offence under section 3 of the Act to register with An Garda Síochána within three days; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42060/06]
185 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will amend section 10(8)(a) of the Sex Offenders Act 2001 to require persons convicted of a sexual offence under section 3 of the Act to register with An Garda Síochána in the Garda district in which they propose to reside; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42061/06]
186 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will amend section 10(8)(b) of the Sex Offenders Act 2001 to require persons convicted of a sexual offence under section 3 of the Act to register with An Garda Síochána in person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42062/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 184 to 186, inclusive, together.
The Criminal Law (Trafficking in Persons and Sexual Offences) Act 2006, which has been approved by Government and is at present being drafted, contains several amendments to the Sex Offenders Act 2001. I am now examining further amendments to the Act, in particular to harmonise our laws more closely with those in our neighbouring jurisdictions and to ensure that we can deal further with sex offenders who might come here from abroad. I will seek Government approval to include any such amendments in the Bill at present being drafted.
187 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to establish a register of sex offenders here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42063/06]
The Sex Offenders Act, 2001 which commenced on 27 September 2001 sets out the notification obligations on persons convicted of a range of sexual offences against both children and adults. A convicted sex offender must notify his/her name(s), date of birth and current home address to the Garda Síochána within seven days of the conviction for the sexual offence concerned or, where the offender is sentenced to imprisonment, from the date of full release from prison.
Thereafter, the offender must notify the Gardaí of any change of name or address within seven days of that change. Notification of any address where the offender spends either as much as seven days or two or more periods amounting to seven days in any twelve month period must also be given to the Gardaí.
If the offender intends to leave the State for a period of seven days or more s/he must inform the Gardaí of this fact and the address at which s/he intends to stay and also notify the Gardaí of his/her return. If s/he did not intend to stay away for more than seven days but did, s/he must inform the Gardaí within a further seven days.
The provisions of the Act extend to any sex offenders entering this jurisdiction from abroad who have an obligation to register in their own countries or who have been convicted abroad of an offence comparable to one covered by the Act.
Part 4 of the Sex Offenders Act 2001 provides that it is an offence for convicted sex offenders to apply for, or to accept, work or to offer services, a necessary and regular part of which consists mainly of unsupervised access to, or contact with, children or mentally impaired persons, without informing the employer or organisation of his/her conviction for a qualifying sexual offence.
It is an offence to fail to comply with the notification requirements. The penalty is imprisonment for up to 12 months or a fine of €1,900 or both.
The courts can also sentence an offender who has been found guilty of an offence under the schedule of offences in the Act to a period of statutory supervision under the Probation and Welfare Service on their release from prison. Before an offender is released from prison, the Prison Service must inform him/her that they are subject to the notification requirement of the Act. Ten days before the date of release, the Prison Service must inform the Garda Síochána that s/he is being released.
The Garda Síochána has in place a system for the monitoring of persons subject to these requirements. The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit monitor and manage the notification provisions. The information on persons who are subject to the requirements of the Sex Offenders Act, 2001 is maintained at a central location. Only specified nominated Garda personnel have access to this information.
There are nominated Garda Inspectors in each Garda Division who are notified by the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit when a sex offender, who is subject to the requirements of the Act, is resident in their Division. These inspectors are responsible for the monitoring of such offenders.
The Garda authorities are currently preparing to computerise the system for recording persons subject to the requirements of the Act and integrate it into the PULSE system.
188 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he has taken to establish a pan-European Union register of sex offenders that would be accessible by nominated members of the law enforcement community in each member state; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42064/06]
On 27 November I signed a Memorandum of Understanding on information sharing arrangements between Ireland and the UK relating to sex offenders.
The MOU was negotiated between my Department and the Home Office, with input from the Northern Ireland Office. It relates to information about persons travelling between Ireland and the UK and who are subject to sex offender notification requirements in their own jurisdiction. This covers sex offenders travelling between any of the legal jurisdictions in these islands. The rationale for the Memorandum is that such information will be shared between police forces for the purposes of protecting the public from the risks presented by sex offenders — whether paedophile or otherwise — and investigating serious sexual offences. The transmission of any information necessary to achieve these purposes is covered.
As a result of the MOU, the exchange of such information between the Garda Síochána and British police forces, which of course has already been taking place for some time, is now being put on a formal footing. The information will now be shared as a matter of course.
This Memorandum of Understanding is another example of the close relationship between Ireland and the UK and in particular between the two parts of this island. It is also the most recent example of the benefits which accrue to both sides through cooperation and coordination in the areas of criminal justice and law enforcement.
As the MOU provides, its use and effectiveness will be kept under review, and I am confident that full use will be made of its potential by the police forces of all our jurisdictions.
A Registered Sex Offender Advisory Group has been established consisting of representatives of An Garda Síochána, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Northern Ireland Office. As part of its work, this Group evaluates the potential for sharing information, examining the registration criteria in both jurisdictions for sex offenders and identifying areas for further co-operation.
The provisions of the Sex Offenders Act 2001 are kept under constant review by my Department with a view to ensuring the Act is operating in an efficient and effective manner.
Discussions have commenced, at Working Group level within the Council of the European Union, on a proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the organisation and content of the exchange of information extracted from criminal records between Member States. These discussions follow the adoption in 2005 by the Council of a Council Decision on the exchange of information extracted from the criminal record, which supplements the relevant provisions of the Council of Europe 1959 European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters.
189 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the role of his Department in ensuring that asylum seekers do not suffer poverty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37623/06]
Asylum seekers who apply to the Irish State for recognition as a refugee under the Geneva Convention are provided with all basic needs to ensure that they do not suffer poverty.
The Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) of my Department is charged with responsibility to provide accommodation for asylum seekers while their asylum application is being processed. In discharging this task, the RIA ensures that no asylum seeker residing in their accommodation centres suffers from poverty. Contractual arrangements provide for the day to day needs of asylum seekers, some of which are listed below:
Asylum seekers residing in RIA accommodation centres have household bills in relation to the following:
Rent
heating (maintained at 20 degrees Celsius),
electricity,
lighting or
food (including baby food, where required, and school lunches), provided to the resident free of charge under the contract.
Asylum seekers are provided with packs containing personal toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toilet paper, etc), which are replenished and replaced as and when required — free of charge.
Asylum seekers also receive cleaning materials such as washing detergent and general household cleaners if they wish to clean their own rooms / bathrooms — free of charge.
Where an asylum seeker chooses not to clean his/her room themselves, a cleaning service is provided by the accommodation centre — free of charge.
A laundry service is available to residents at all accommodation centres — free of charge.
Towels and bed linen are provided; replaced when required (but at least on a weekly basis); and laundered for asylum seekers — free of charge.
All bedrooms are provided with televisions, which receive, as a minimum, RTE 1; Network 2; TV3; TG4; BBC 1; BBC 2; ITV and Channel 4 — free of charge.
Crèche facilities are available at a number of accommodation centres, which enable residents to avail of language and other classes — free of charge.
Medical and educational services are accessed by asylum seekers on the same basis as the indigenous population. However, all asylum seekers are automatically registered for receipt of a medical card and this ensures that there is no medical expenditure falling on the asylum seeker and their families.
Exceptional needs payments such as payments in respect of school uniforms and for any needs arising from the birth of a new baby (i.e., prams/ buggies, etc) are generally provided through the Community Welfare Officer (CWO).
In addition, asylum seekers also receive a weekly amount of €19.10 per adult and €9.60 per child, also through the CWO.
190 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he or Ministers of State at his Department have been contacted by the Moriarty tribunal in the course of 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37089/06]
Neither I nor Ministers of State at my Department have not been contacted by the Moriarty Tribunal.
191 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Government is planning to make adjustments to policy regarding family reunification or is planning to appeal the recent High Court decision regarding family reunification; the number of visitor visas that have been granted to family members of individuals given residency based on parents of an Irish born child; and if there is a policy of not granting requests for visitor visas to family members in such circumstances. [42050/06]
I presume the Deputy is referring to the recent High Court judgements delivered on 14 November 2006 on test case proceedings taken in relation to the IBC/05 Scheme. The IBC/05 scheme was initiated to provide non-EU national parents of Irish citizen children, who were born in the State prior to 1 January 2005, an opportunity to apply for permission to remain in the State on that basis.
One of the conditions of the IBC/05 scheme was that applicants were required to a sign a Statutory Declaration, as provided for under the Statutory Declarations Act 1938, to accept and agree that the granting of permission to remain in the State under the IBC/05 Scheme does not confer any entitlement or legitimate expectation on any other person, whether related to the applicant or not, to enter the State. This aspect of the IBC/05 scheme forms the basis in determining visa applications in this category. However, as with all visa applications, each case is examined on its own merits. Statistical data in the manner requested by the Deputy is not currently maintained by my Department.
I am currently considering an appeal to the Supreme Court on the High Court judgements delivered on 14 November 2006 . As the outcome of such an appeal is inextricably linked to any policy related to the IBC/05 scheme I am unable to comment further until those proceedings, if any, have been determined.
192 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he will take in response to the report presented to him entitled The Stardust Fire Disaster Nothing but the Truth the Case for a New Public Inquiry on behalf of the Stardust Victims Committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41166/06]
I can inform the Deputy that the position remains as set out in my response to Parliamentary Question No. 128 on this subject of Wednesday, 22 November (39279/06).
193 Mr. Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to the recent approval of €500,000 from the Dormant Accounts Fund to provide addiction counselling and employment supports for prisoners and ex-prisoners and his stated objective of maximising the employment opportunities for prisoners and Ireland’s responsibilities as a society, to actively try to help them fully reintegrate into society, his views on whether more needs to be done at a community level to achieve these objectives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37066/06]
I can advise the Deputy that €0.5 million was made available from the Dormant Accounts Fund in 2006 under the Economic and Social Disadvantage Category for projects supporting Prisoners / Ex Prisoners. The funding has been equally divided between addiction counselling and employability services for prisoners: €250,000 for addiction counsellors and €250,000 for employability services.
Applications for funding were sought primarily from community and voluntary groups who had experience of working with these target groups and who could deliver on actions relating to Addiction Counselling or Employment Supports. On 23 October, 2006, the Government announced approval of an allocation of €250,000 to four community organisations to provide addiction counselling services for prisoners in Dublin prisons and a further €250,000 to two projects to provide employment supports for prisoners in the Mountjoy and Midland campuses as well as in Castlerea and Cork prisons.
I believe that these initiatives are worthy contributions toward helping prisoners adopt law-abiding lives on release. Not only will these grants support innovative initiatives delivering services to prisoners, they will serve also to support the work of community groups in bridging the gap between prison and the community. Helping prisoners address their addictions and providing them with supports in relation to employability, both of which are important strands of Irish Prison Service strategy, benefits both the prisoners and the public safety of the community they will return to. The Irish Prison Service is endeavouring to intensify its engagement with community based agencies, both in the statutory and the community and voluntary sectors, with a view to achieving greater integration and coordination of the delivery of a range of support services to prisoners.
I also wish to advise the Deputy that my Department, through the Probation Service, provides funding to 66 Community Based Bodies which provide a range of services to offenders in local communities, e.g. pre-industrial training and education, offender management programmes, residential accommodation, drug and alcohol abuse treatment / intervention / awareness programmes etc.
I am pleased to tell the Deputy that I have secured funding of €24.096 million in 2007 by way of financial assistance for these Voluntary Community Bodies, which is a 19% increase on the 2006 allocation of €20.227 million.
194 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Finance his views on a VAT compensation scheme for Irish charities in view of the VAT compensation scheme introduced in Denmark for registered charities there. [41813/06]
The position is that charities and non-profit groups engaged in non-commercial activity are exempt from VAT under the EU Sixth VAT Directive, with which Irish VAT law must comply. This means they do not charge VAT on the services they provide and cannot recover VAT incurred on goods and services that they purchase. Essentially only VAT registered businesses which charge VAT are able to recover VAT.
The Irish Charities Tax Reform Group (ICTRG) appears to accept that charities can not be granted VAT refunds through the tax system. However, they are still seeking the introduction of a grant or subsidy in lieu of the VAT charities pay on their business inputs and estimate that this would cost €18 million per annum. In this regard, I am aware that the Danish equivalent to the ICTRG has made proposals to the Danish Finance Ministry. I understand that a very limited scheme has been introduced.
I would add that the 140 bodies represented by the ICTRG already acknowledge that they receive €8.6 million in funding either directly or indirectly from the Exchequer. However, there are currently 7,000 charities registered with the Revenue Commissioners. It is therefore likely that the introduction of a scheme along the lines proposed by the ICTRG would cost the Exchequer significantly more than the €18 million they have estimated. The ICTRG will argue that they represent the largest charities but that is not the case as many educational and sporting organisations are also registered with the Revenue Commissioners as charitable or not-for-profit organisations. Therefore, the introduction of grant in lieu of VAT paid by registered charities would undoubtedly lead to other exempt bodies such as schools, hospitals and sporting, many of which are already registered as charities, seeking to benefit from such a system of refunds. These exempt bodies are already receiving considerable Exchequer funding.
Charities are exempt from Income Tax, DIRT, Stamp duty, Capital taxes and donations to charities are tax relieved. These are of substantial benefit to charities.
195 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Finance the amount of revenue generated by the national lottery for the Exchequer each year for the past five years; and the way it was decided to distribute the moneys. [41819/06]
The amount of revenue generated for the Exchequer by the National Lottery in each of the years 2001 to 2005 is as follows:
|
Year |
€m |
|
2001 |
174.884 |
|
2002 |
171.263 |
|
2003 |
185.263 |
|
2004 |
187.069 |
|
2005 |
202.815 |
The Government decides on an annual basis how the surplus from the National Lottery is to be allocated in the context of the overall Estimates process. I refer the Deputy to Appendix I of the "Revised Estimates for Public Services" for the years 2002 to 2006 for details of the outturn on the National Lottery allocations by Vote and Subhead for the years 2001 to 2005.
196 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the estimated annual cost of making the unused part of employee tax credits refundable to those low income earners who do not benefit from the credit. [41820/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the most recent estimated cost of making the main personal tax credits refundable when they are unused is broadly in the region of €2.1 billion annually. The main category of refund would relate to the employee credit where the annual cost of refunding the unused portion of the credit to income earners with insufficient income to fully absorb it would amount to €1.1 billion approximately. The next categories of refund in order of scale would be the basic personal credit — single, married and widowed — costing €1 billion approximately.
The estimate of €2.1 billion relates only to the cost of extending refundable tax credits to all those on Revenue's tax files. If a refundable tax credit system were to be introduced, one would have to consider those who are not on the tax files, for example, those who are of employable age but not working, including those in social welfare. This would increase the cost significantly. Apart from the issue of cost, there would be a range of other policy and practical difficulties arising in introducing such a system. I have no plans to introduce refundable tax credits at the present time.
197 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied that present arrangements in relation to investor compensation are adequate to cover the collapse of brokers holding client funds or other property; the arrangements in place; and his proposals in this regard to more adequately protect the position of investors. [41848/06]
Firstly, I might explain that the present arrangements for investor compensation were introduced in 1998 on foot of an EU Directive. The Directive was transposed into Irish law by the Investor Compensation Act 1998, which established the Investor Compensation Company Ltd (ICCL) to ensure that clients of a failed investment firm receive compensation within the parameters set down in the Act. The amount of compensation payable to each eligible investor is limited to 90% of the amount lost, subject to a maximum payment of €20,000.
Following the W&R Morrogh Stockbrokers failure, a Working Group, representative of all stakeholders, was established by the Minister for Finance on 30 March 2004 to see what lessons could be learned from the failure and what steps needed to be taken to address issues that arose. On 1 November last, following an extensive review, the Final Report of the Morrogh Working Group was published and it is available on my Department's website. The Report makes a number of recommendations with regard to legislative and regulatory issues and investor compensation funding in the event of a failure of an investment firm.
Responsibility for the implementation of the Report's recommendations rests primarily with my Department, the Financial Regulator and the Investor Compensation Company Ltd. It is intended that a review of the implementation of the recommendations will take place during 2007. I am satisfied that the implementation of the Group's recommendations will strengthen the framework for investor compensation in Ireland. Clearly, any policy initiatives pursued in Ireland must remain consistent with the framework for investor compensation at EU level.
198 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if tests for presence of abnormal radioactivity here have been carried out subsequent to the apparently mysterious ailment that struck down former Russian Prime Minister Yegor Gaidar apparently after eating breakfast in an Irish hotel on 24 November 2006; when, the location and the way such tests have been carried out; the number of substances and the substances that were tested for; the results of such tests; and if no such tests have been carried out, the reason they have not been and when will they be carried out; the efforts that have been made to contact those who might have been in close proximity to Mr. Gaidar during his time here; if these people have been tested; if not the reason they have not been tested and when such testing will take place. [41821/06]
I am advised that there is no evidence that the illness in question was attributable to radiation. Initially, there were concerns in regard to the possible involvement of radiation and the Gardaí and the relevant hospital (the Connolly Memorial Hospital) asked the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) to undertake monitoring of locations in the hospital and in the NUI, Maynooth in order to provide reassurance to the public. The RPII undertook the necessary monitoring on 1 December 2006. The results of the monitoring did not show any abnormal radiation levels. This information was conveyed to the hospital and the Gardaí by the RPII.
199 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of childminders availing of the tax break for childminders introduced in budget 2006, the number in total and the breakdown by county; the explanation she received for the relatively low level of take up; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41866/06]
To apply for the Childcare Services Relief, Childminders are obliged to make an annual tax return of their child minding income to the Revenue Commissioners. For tax exemption purposes, Childminders must also provide evidence that they have notified their local City/County Childcare Committee (CCC), through the local Child minding Advisory Officer that they are providing a child minding service.
The number of voluntary notifications made by Childminders to the CCCs since the introduction of the Childcare Services Relief in December 2005 has been monitored by my Office on a regular basis. The latest figures available as of 1 September 2006 are summarised in the table. Figures for the period to 1 December 2006 are being collated and are expected to be available shortly.
The first tax year for which this Relief applies is 2006 and tax returns for 2006 must be made by the end of October 2007. Until that time, the final take-up of this initiative cannot be fully established.
|
Child Care Committee |
September 2006 |
|
Carlow |
2 |
|
Cavan |
7 |
|
Clare* |
9 |
|
Cork City |
0 |
|
Cork County |
0 |
|
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown |
2 |
|
Donegal |
0 |
|
Dublin City |
1 |
|
Fingal |
38 |
|
Galway |
11 |
|
Kerry** |
70 |
|
Kildare* |
16 |
|
Kilkenny |
2 |
|
Laois* |
4 |
|
Leitrim** |
24 |
|
Limerick City* |
1 |
|
Limerick County* |
5 |
|
Longford* |
1 |
|
Louth |
0 |
|
Mayo |
0 |
|
Meath |
16 |
|
Monaghan |
7 |
|
North Tipperary* |
2 |
|
Offaly* |
6 |
|
Roscommon |
0 |
|
Sligo |
0 |
|
South Dublin |
19 |
|
South Tipperary |
3 |
|
Waterford City |
17 |
|
Waterford County |
11 |
|
Westmeath* |
12 |
|
Wexford |
0 |
|
Wicklow |
32 |
|
Total |
318 |
*Figures for these areas are held by and provided by the Health Service Executive via the CCC.
**Figure is provisional and pending finalisation.
200 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding adoptions between Ireland and Belarus. [41904/06]
The examination of the draft protocol agreement with Belarus has raised a number of constitutional and legal concerns. The Department is currently attempting to find ways to resolve these issues with the mutual agreement of both parties.
The difficulties in attempting to satisfy both the Belorussian authorities requirements and the legal and constitutional imperatives that apply in this jurisdiction are currently being worked through. It is very difficult to be specific regarding a timescale for the conclusion of these negotiations but I can confirm that the Department is treating this matter as a priority.
201 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if a long-term care plan will be put in place for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if their home help hours will be increased as a matter of priority. [42342/06]
219 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if a home care plan will be put in place for a person (details supplied); and if she will make this a priority case. [42002/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 201 and 219 together.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
202 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will work with persons (details supplied) in Dublin 5 in planning a long-term care package for their son with an intellectual disability; and if she will work with the local council on this matter. [42343/06]
216 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will put in a long-term care plan for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 with a disability; and if she will work with the family on this matter. [41968/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 202 and 216 together.
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
203 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of doctor only medical cards by county that have been applied for; the number of applications that have resulted in the issuance of such a card; the average time taken for application to issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41814/06]
The most recent information provided by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to my Department shows that 48,761 GP visit cards had been issued as at 29th November, 2006. More detailed statistical data provided by the HSE to my Department and correct as of 1st November, 2006 contains county-by-county figures for the number of GP visit cards and this information is attached.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for this benefit, it is the appropriate body to provide the other information sought by the Deputy. My Department has therefore requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address the matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
|
Primary Care Reimbursement Service |
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Position regarding medical cards as at 1st November 2006 |
||||||
|
Regions |
Number of Family Units as at 1st November 2006 |
Number of Eligible Persons on Medical Cards as at 1st November 2006 |
Number of Eligible Persons on GP Visit Cards as at 1st November 2006 |
Number of Eligible Persons as at 1st November 2006 as % of Population (2006 Census) |
Number of Eligible Persons 1st October 2006 as % of Population (2002 Census) |
Population |
|
% |
% |
|||||
|
Eastern Region |
||||||
|
Dublin |
198,621 |
288,636 |
4,502 |
24.71 |
24.40 |
1,186,159 |
|
Kildare |
26,581 |
40,597 |
967 |
22.34 |
21.97 |
186,075 |
|
Wicklow |
20,470 |
29,588 |
945 |
24.17 |
23.74 |
126,330 |
|
Total |
245,672 |
358,821 |
6,414 |
24.37 |
24.04 |
1,498,564 |
|
Midland |
||||||
|
Laois |
12,233 |
17,980 |
942 |
28.24 |
28.00 |
67,012 |
|
Longford |
8,988 |
12,988 |
577 |
39.48 |
39.29 |
34,361 |
|
Offaly |
14,149 |
20,525 |
1,021 |
30.52 |
30.42 |
70,604 |
|
Westmeath |
15,094 |
22,176 |
948 |
29.12 |
28.77 |
79,403 |
|
Total |
50,464 |
73,669 |
3,488 |
30.69 |
30.47 |
251,380 |
|
Mid-Western |
||||||
|
Clare |
22,225 |
33,152 |
841 |
30.68 |
30.57 |
110,800 |
|
Limerick |
37,219 |
53,537 |
1,216 |
29.78 |
29.55 |
183,863 |
|
Tipperary NR |
14,515 |
20,909 |
575 |
32.56 |
32.16 |
65,988 |
|
Total |
73,959 |
107,598 |
2,632 |
30.56 |
30.34 |
360,651 |
|
North Eastern |
||||||
|
Cavan |
13,573 |
20,580 |
971 |
33.69 |
32.84 |
63,961 |
|
Louth |
24,449 |
37,710 |
1,635 |
35.48 |
34.65 |
110,894 |
|
Meath |
21,866 |
32,086 |
1,733 |
20.80 |
20.25 |
162,621 |
|
Monaghan |
11,140 |
16,352 |
766 |
30.67 |
30.63 |
55,816 |
|
Total |
71,028 |
106,728 |
5,105 |
28.44 |
27.83 |
393,292 |
|
North Western |
||||||
|
Donegal |
43,078 |
70,940 |
2,832 |
50.20 |
49.75 |
146,956 |
|
Leitrim |
7,797 |
11,681 |
457 |
42.09 |
41.62 |
28,837 |
|
Sligo |
13,870 |
19,716 |
878 |
33.84 |
33.31 |
60,863 |
|
Total |
64,745 |
102,337 |
4,167 |
45.00 |
44.53 |
236,656 |
|
South Eastern |
||||||
|
Carlow |
11,055 |
16,939 |
1,085 |
35.71 |
35.10 |
50,471 |
|
Kilkenny |
14,831 |
20,952 |
1,096 |
25.23 |
25.00 |
87,394 |
|
Tipperary SR |
21,013 |
29,696 |
1,468 |
37.52 |
37.02 |
83,052 |
|
Waterford |
25,923 |
37,955 |
1,239 |
36.31 |
36.12 |
107,942 |
|
Wexford |
28,045 |
42,766 |
1,743 |
33.82 |
33.62 |
131,615 |
|
Total |
100,867 |
148,308 |
6,631 |
33.65 |
33.34 |
460,474 |
|
Southern |
||||||
|
Cork |
99,798 |
137,820 |
6,118 |
29.93 |
29.73 |
480,909 |
|
Kerry |
30,539 |
42,325 |
1,752 |
31.57 |
31.67 |
139,616 |
|
Total |
130,337 |
180,145 |
7,870 |
30.30 |
30.17 |
620,525 |
|
Western |
||||||
|
Galway |
47,542 |
68,739 |
2,950 |
31.03 |
30.83 |
231,035 |
|
Mayo |
33,507 |
48,735 |
1,884 |
40.94 |
40.75 |
123,648 |
|
Roscommon |
14,788 |
21,264 |
885 |
37.73 |
37.19 |
58,700 |
|
Total |
95,837 |
138,738 |
5,719 |
34.95 |
34.70 |
413,383 |
|
Grand Total |
832,909 |
1,216,344 |
42,026 |
29.71 |
29.41 |
4,234,925 |
204 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will give a breakdown per constituency for the past five years of projects funded by the national lottery moneys through her Department. [41827/06]
My Department does not record awards made from the National Lottery Discretionary Fund by constituency. However, details of each project awarded funding over the past five years are set out in the attached table. Organisations can also apply directly to the Health Service Executive for grants under National Lottery funding. 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.
205 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason there has been a delay in introducing modern satellite technology to allow ambulances to locate accident victims and seriously ill patients on time; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there has been almost ten years of planning a computer aided centralised navigation system for ambulances in the west which has not been implemented; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41844/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issue raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
206 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children when she last answered a parliamentary question on the introduction of digital hearing aids; her views on whether since she ceased playing a role in reporting progress to the Houses of the Oireachtas on this project, greater progress has been achieved by the Health Service Executive in delivering this technology; and the role she and her Department should play in relation to setting targets or monitoring progress on behalf of the HSE in respect of this project. [41845/06]
I refer the Deputy to the reply I gave him in relation to digital hearing aids on the 24th March, 2005. 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.
207 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the qualifying conditions for children to obtain braces, for example, age and size of gap between teeth; and when a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will be seen by an orthodontist. [41849/06]
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.
208 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if the health centre planned for an area (details supplied) in County Dublin will be a public venture, private venture or a public private partnership; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41886/06]
The Primary Care Strategy aims to develop services in the community to give people direct access to integrated multi-disciplinary teams of general practitioners, nurses, health care assistants, home helps, occupational therapists and others.
It has been estimated that up to 95% of people's health and social services needs can be properly met within a primary care setting and the establishment of new Primary Care Teams can contribute greatly to enhancing community based health services in these areas. The provision of the appropriate infrastructure for the effective functioning of the teams is being considered by the HSE, having regard to a number of factors. These include the type and configuration of the services involved, the mixed public/private nature of our health system, the suitability of existing infrastructure and the capital requirements of the health services generally over the coming years.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for Primary Care services, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
209 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans for a methadone clinic in an area (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41887/06]
The question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
210 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of methadone clinics being planned in the Dublin area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41888/06]
The question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
211 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the considerations that apply when selecting sites for methadone clinics; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41889/06]
The question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
212 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for an appointment. [41901/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
213 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children the present status of the national radiotherapy guidelines which were prepared for her; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41950/06]
Quality standards for the provision of radiation oncology services for public patients have been prepared by an expert group established on foot of a Government decision in January 2004. The Health Service Executive has advised my Department that it is applying these standards to radiation oncology services that it provides or arranges to have provided.
214 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the action she will take with the Health Service Executive to ensure that there is no further delay with the long awaited redevelopment of a health centre (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41951/06]
The Primary Care Strategy aims to develop services in the community to give people direct access to integrated multi-disciplinary teams of general practitioners, nurses, health care assistants, home helps, occupational therapists and others.
It has been estimated that up to 95% of people's health and social services needs can be properly met within a primary care setting and the establishment of new Primary Care Teams can contribute greatly to enhancing community based health services in these areas.
The provision of the appropriate infrastructure for the effective functioning of the teams is being considered by the HSE, having regard to a number of factors. These include the type and configuration of the services involved, the mixed public/private nature of our health system, the suitability of existing infrastructure and the capital requirements of the health services generally over the coming years.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for Primary Care services, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
215 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children if progress is being made in respect of the need for an out of hours general practitioner service in the Tallaght, Dublin 24 region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41952/06]
Out of hours co-operatives allow general practitioners to put in place arrangements to provide services to their patients, while their surgeries are closed in the evenings, on weekends and bank holidays. The development of GP co-operatives is in line with the overall health service policy of strengthening primary care services and ensuring that to the greatest extent possible, people's care needs are met in the primary care setting.
Out of hours co-operatives are now in place in all Health Service Executive (HSE) areas, providing coverage in all or in part of all counties. Between 2000 and 2005 approximately €105 million was allocated to the HSE for out of hours GP co-operatives and in 2006 almost €34 million is available to the Executive for these services.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for this service, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular issue raised in the Deputy's question. 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.
217 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the funding deficit and staffing shortage in a service (details supplied) in County Kildare; her plans to address same; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that some services provided are in crisis and unless adequate resources are made available they will be forced to reduce services; her response to these funding difficulties and the impact this has on people with intellectual and associated disabilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41969/06]
As the Deputy may be aware, €10m was made available in the 2006 Budget to the Health Service Executive, to address core under funding and core staffing issues in services for people with disabilities provided by the voluntary sector. My Department understands that this funding has been allocated by the Health Service Executive.
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.
218 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the medical records of patients in the Cork area dating from 1950 to the late 1970s were destroyed; the number of records that were destroyed; the difficulties that this has created for people such as those affected by the hepatitis C case in accessing information; if there is a method currently in place to electronically store records to avoid a similar destruction in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41993/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act, 2004. Therefore the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy. I might add that the Hepatitis C and HIV Compensation Tribunal has made awards to approximately 2,000 people in relation to infection with Hepatitis C/HIV through the administration within the State of blood and blood products. The non-availability of records has not prevented the Tribunal from making determinations in relevant cases.
220 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will review an application for domiciliary care allowance for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if she will support the family on this matter. [42005/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
221 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people, in County Westmeath, who are waiting to be assessed by an audiologist for hearing tests; the number on the waiting list at Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar for the fitting of hearing aids; if she will confirm that the waiting list extends to a 12 month period; if in this context, she will take steps to have a consultant audiologist ENT specialist appointed to Mullingar to enable persons who have been approved for hearing aids to have same fitted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42067/06]
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.
222 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if, for the purpose of adoption there is a bilateral agreement in place between Ireland and Russia; if not, the position regarding the ratification of the Hague Convention by Russia; if this means that Russia will be closed to Irish applicants who wish to adopt in that country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42068/06]
The Adoption Board currently has bi-lateral adoption agreements with China, Belarus, Romania, Vietnam, Thailand and The Philippines. Belarus and Romania have, however, ceased inter-country adoption. I am not aware of the position regarding the ratification of the Hague Convention by Russia.
The legislation which will ratify the Hague Convention, bringing it into force under Irish law, is currently being drafted. If the Russian authorities have not ratified the Convention by the time it comes into force under Irish law, or if the Adoption Board does not have a bi-lateral Agreement with the Russian authorities, Irish applicants will no longer be able to adopt in Russia.
223 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the persons who can apply for repayment under the health repayment scheme; if in relation to a person who was in a nursing home and died in 1993 and who had been wrongly charged the estate of this person can make a claim for such repayment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42069/06]
The Health (Repayment Scheme) Act 2006 came into effect on 30 June 2006. The repayment scheme was launched publicly by the Health Service Executive (HSE) and the scheme administrator KPMG/McCann Fitzgerald on 14 August 2006. A national advertising campaign and a helpline also commenced on this date.
Under the scheme all those fully eligible persons who were wrongly charged and are alive will have their charges repaid in full. The estates of all those fully eligible persons, who were wrongly charged and died since 9 December 1998 will have the charges repaid in full. The scheme does not allow for repayments to the estates of those who died prior to that date.
The decision to limit repayments to the estates of those who died in the six years prior to 9 December 2004 reflects the reference in the Supreme Court judgement to the statute of Limitations — "the state has available to it the Statute of Limitations i.e. a six year limit". The Government has a responsibility to have regard to what the Supreme Court said, in order to limit the scale of total repayments which today's taxpayer would otherwise have to fund. The scheme strikes a fair balance in this regard.
224 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm that a person in the advanced stages of the AIDS virus was admitted to the psychiatric wing of Kerry General Hospital on 22 November 2006, having previously worked in another hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42070/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
225 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the situation in which Bord Gáis customers are being charged VAT on units of unused gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41818/06]
I am satisfied that Bord Gais Éireann (BGÉ) complies with existing legislation and with Regulations and Orders made by the Revenue Commissioners relating to VAT. The collection of VAT charges on supplies of natural gas is a matter for BGÉ and the Revenue Commissioners.
I understand that BGÉ does offer a special package to customers who contract to use a stipulated amount (minimum take) of gas in a 12-month period. If all of the contracted gas is not used, however, the customers are advised that they will be billed for the difference between the contracted amount and actual usage. The Revenue Commissioners regard the Minimum Take Adjustment as gas related and liable to VAT at the rate applicable to natural gas, currently 13.5%.
226 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will give a breakdown per constituency for the past five years of projects funded by the national lottery moneys through his Department. [41826/06]
No projects have been funded by National Lottery moneys through my Department in the last five years.
227 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department received applications for registry of a ship (details supplied); if his attention has been drawn to the fact and if he will explain the reason a certificate of registry was not issued from 1999 when the current owners purchased the vessel, thereby making legal fishing impossible; the basis on which the provisions of S.I. No. 245 of 2005 and S.I. No. 464 of 2005 were not applied in relation to registration of this vessel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41870/06]
All matters relating to the Licensing of individual Sea Fishing vessels are a matter for the independent Sea Fishing Boat Licensing Authority established under the Sea Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003. However, I have been informed by the Authority that their records show that the individuals concerned applied to have their vessel registered in May 2000 and a Certificate of Registry issued to them in July of that year. A second Certificate was issued to the individuals in 2005 as a result of a re-measurement of the vessel.
228 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the details of the development of a new power station at Aghada, County Cork based on the recent announcement of 30 November 2006; and if he will confirm the capacity of the power station and the persons who will fund this development. [41895/06]
Any decision to grant shareholder approval for ESB investment in a new power generation plant at Aghada would be conditional on agreement on a strategy to address the company's dominance and market power, particularly with regard to mid-merit price-setting plant, along the lines agreed with the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER). Any such approval would also be strictly contingent on compliance with all terms and conditions which accompany the authorisation of 30th November by the CER.
The funding mechanism for the development of approximately 400MW is a matter for the ESB and would be addressed as part of the shareholder approval process.
229 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when works will begin on a harbour development project (details supplied) which has all preparatory works in place through the local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42007/06]
The harbour at Greencastle is owned by Donegal County Council and responsibility for its maintenance and development rests with the local authority in the first instance. In 2006 the Department allocated funding of €2.4 million towards the commencement of the first phase of a development project for Greencastle Harbour under the Fishery Harbours Development Programme. Under that Programme the Department provides 75% funding and the Local Authority pays the balance of 25%. The proposed development at Greencastle has received full planning permission.
The first phase is the construction of a rock breakwater. The second phase involves the construction of 100 metres of berthage for mussel dredger boats. The third and final phase would be the construction of a 250m long deepwater pier. The Department is currently awaiting confirmation from Donegal County Council that they will contribute the 25% funding to the development.
The question of providing further funding to the project in future years depends on the amount of Exchequer funding available for fishery harbours and overall national priorities.
230 D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den Aire Gnóthaí Eachtracha an bhfuil an Rialtas ag cloí leis an socrú a rinneadh ag Cill Rímhinn i dtaobh Achta Teanga ó thuaidh. [41822/06]
Leagann Aguisín B le Comhaontú Chill Rímhinn amach gealltanais Rialtas na Breataine i leith cearta daonna, comhionannais, íobartach, agus ábhar eile. I measc na n-ábhar seo, tá gealltanas ar leith tugtha go leagfaí faoi bhráid na Parlaiminte Acht Teanga do Thuaisceart na hÉireann, agus go ndéanfaí comhoibriú leis an bhFeidhmiúchán nua le forbairt na Gaeilge a chosaint agus a chur chun cinn.
Mar aon leis an ngealltanas seo, cuireann Acht Thuaisceart na hÉireann (Comhaontú Chill Rímhinn) 2006, a achtaíodh i Westminster ar an 22 Samhain 2006, iallach ar an bhFeidhmiúchán nua straitéis a bhunú a dhéanann cur síos ar an slí ina mbeartaíonn sé forbairt na teanga a chur chun cinn agus a chosaint.
Déanfaidh mé an cur chuige atá beartaithe ag Rialtas na Breataine i leith na reachtaíochta a bhaineann leis an nGaeilge a phlé leis an Rúnaí Stáit, Peter Hain, nuair a bhuailfidh mé leis ag an gcéad chruinniú eile den gComhdháil Idir-Rialtasach na Breataine-na hÉireann an tseachtain seo chugainn.
231 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress of the Irish abroad initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41945/06]
Maintaining and strengthening links with our communities abroad is a key priority of my Department. Officials in our diplomatic missions and in the Irish Abroad Unit are very active in this regard and work closely with Irish community organisations across a wide range of issues.
The strong commitment of the Government to support our community abroad is reflected in the unprecedented level of funding secured for emigrant services. This year, €12 million is being disbursed to assist our communities abroad, an increase of 45% on 2005. The allocation for next year is €15.2 million, 27% more than this year. Overall, this represents a massive fifteen-fold increase since 1997.
While the needs of the vulnerable members of our community in Britain remain a particular area of concern, I am pleased that increased funding has enabled us to support a much wider range of initiatives than was possible in the past. Government funding is now supporting a number of capital projects, as well as initiatives that help to sustain Irish community networks. Another important area relates to initiatives that support homeless Irish people. The Simon Community in London estimates that the number of homeless Irish in central London has fallen from over 600 in 1999 to under 100 this year. I was pleased to note that Simon credits Irish Government funding with having played a key role in this.
The interests of the Irish in the United States are an important priority for the Government with the issue of the undocumented Irish being an area of particular concern. In all of our dealings with key figures in the US Administration and Legislature, we emphasise our strong support for measures that would enable the undocumented Irish to regularise their status and have open to them a path to permanent residence.
The Government is also working very closely with Irish community organisations that assist the Irish in the United States. I am happy to support them in their important work and have approved funding to them of over €1 million this year.
The Government has also supported Irish community groups in Australia and Canada, as well as a number of organisations in Ireland that are engaged in activities of benefit to Irish people abroad. In addition, this year I was happy to approve funding for the first time to Irish community organisations in Argentina, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
We will continue to support, and maintain very close contact with, organisations that do invaluable work for our community abroad. In this way, we will ensure that our response to identified needs is effective, and is developed further in the period ahead.
232 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on contacts with the incoming congressional leadership in Washington DC in respect of undocumented Irish in the United States of America; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41946/06]
The welfare of the undocumented Irish in the United States is an issue of the highest priority for the Government. I raise our concerns in all of my dealings with key figures in the US Congress and Administration. In particular, I emphasise our strong support for measures that would enable the undocumented to regularise their status and have open to them a path to permanent residency.
Since the mid-term Congressional elections, I have written to senior US legislators to congratulate them on their re-election. In doing so, I have taken the opportunity to emphasise again the Government's deep commitment on the issue of the undocumented. Our Ambassador in Washington is also very active in highlighting our concerns in his on-going contacts with the incoming Congressional leadership, as are officials of our Consulates across the United States.
We are also maintaining very close contact with our community in the United States. I had another meeting in New York on 10 November with the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform, an organisation that is proving highly effective in communicating the Irish dimension to this issue on Capitol Hill and elsewhere.
I greatly appreciate and welcome the renewed commitment of Senators Kennedy and McCain to the advancement in the new Congress of their comprehensive approach to immigration reform. In cooperation with them, I look forward to a further intensification of the Government's efforts on behalf of the undocumented, in particular when the incoming Congress is convened in the New Year.
233 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding Ireland’s relationship with the Kingdom of Lesotho. [41947/06]
Lesotho has a special place in the history of Ireland's official development assistance. The Lesotho aid programme, established in 1975, was our first and for many years our largest development cooperation programme.
Lesotho is one of the world's poorest countries, ranked 149 on the UN Human Development Index (HDI). Half the population lives below the poverty line with an income of less than $1 a day. Over 30% of the adult population are living with HIV/AIDS, which is one of the highest rates of infection in the world.
Ireland's aid programme in Lesotho has expanded significantly in recent years, with the budget increasing from €6 million in 1999 to €9.2 million in 2006. Our aid is primarily directed at rural communities located in the remote mountain districts where poverty is deepest, with a clear focus on health and education. Irish Aid also assists in the improvement of basic infrastructure in rural areas — roads, footbridges, water supplies and sanitation facilities.
Tackling HIV/AIDS continues to be a high priority for Irish Aid in Lesotho. The approach is a comprehensive one, which places equal emphasis on preventing the spread of the pandemic and on the care and treatment of those who have fallen victim to the virus. This year almost €1 million has been allocated to HIV/AIDS-related initiatives under the bilateral country programme.
In addition, in September 2006, Ireland extended its partnership with the Clinton Foundation to include Lesotho. Under this new agreement, Irish funding for the Foundation's work in Lesotho will reach €10 million over the next five years. The focus of the partnership is support to the national responses of Lesotho to the HIV/AIDS pandemic, particularly in the areas of testing and counselling, the provision of anti-retroviral treatments and critical support for the national health systems.
234 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the assistance Ireland is giving to fight AIDS in Africa under the global campaign Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS. [41948/06]
The HIV/AIDS pandemic presents a major challenge to developing countries, especially in Africa.
Children are severely affected. In sub-Saharan Africa 12 million children under the age of 17 have lost one or both parents to AIDS and it is estimated that the figure will rise to over 15 million by 2010. Children account for 14% of new global HIV infections and 18% of AIDS related deaths.
In response to the increasing vulnerability of children infected and affected by HIV, UNICEF launched a Global Campaign ‘Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS' in late 2005. The Campaign works with partners to provide and mobilise support for child-focused comprehensive national AIDS programmes that are fully integrated within reproductive, child and adolescent health, education and social welfare programmes. It seeks to address four key needs of children infected and affected by HIV: preventing the transmission of HIV from mother to child during birth; providing paediatric treatment for those infected; preventing infection among adolescents, and protecting and providing support for children affected by HIV including orphans.
Speaking at the launch of UNICEF's Global Campaign in Ireland, the Taoiseach announced that up to 20% of additional Irish Aid funding for HIV and other communicable diseases would be allocated to interventions that benefit children. This commitment was reiterated in the Government's recently published White Paper on Irish Aid. The Government is honouring its commitment through Irish Aid's work at global, regional and country levels with a range of partners including governments, multilateral organisations and non-governmental partners. International agencies including the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria provide funding for programmes to meet the needs of children. Ireland is a strong supporter of the Global Fund and to date €60 million in funding has been released to that organisation.
The recently signed agreement with the Clinton Foundation will support the provision of paediatric treatment and the prevention of mother to children transmission of HIV-AIDS in Mozambique and Lesotho. On World AIDS Day the Clinton Foundation announced a major breakthrough in securing reduced prices for paediatric anti-HIV drugs. Direct support to orphans and vulnerable children for school assistance, health, nutrition and psycho-social care is a key component of our bilateral assistance programmes in Zambia and Uganda and our regional AIDS programme. Irish Aid supports research related to school-based HIV prevention in Zambia and Tanzania. Our support to Ghana's national HIV response specifically focuses on children through the work of UNICEF.
This year, funding of over €8 million has been approved for UNICEF to implement two programmes in direct support of their Global Campaign. The first, in Ghana, focuses on the four components of the Campaign with a particular emphasis on empowering young boys and girls to protect themselves from HIV infection. The second, in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, focuses on six countries in the region which are experiencing the fastest growth in HIV infection rates and provides a package of services for adolescents who are most at risk of HIV infection.
235 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs what countries are being assisted by Irish Aid; and if he will make a statement detailing the budget in each case. [41949/06]
While Irish Aid provides assistance through different partners in over ninety countries worldwide, the primary focus of the bilateral aid programme is on eight programme countries, six of which are in Africa and two in Asia. These are Ethiopia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Timor Leste and Vietnam. The approximate budgets for each country in 2006 are as follows:
|
€million |
|
|
Africa: |
|
|
Ethiopia |
30 |
|
Lesotho |
9.2 |
|
Mozambique |
29 |
|
Tanzania |
26 |
|
Uganda |
32 |
|
Zambia |
19.4 |
|
Asia: |
|
|
Timor Leste |
4.8 |
|
Vietnam |
7 |
Details of funding to other countries can be found in the Irish Aid Annual Reports which are available for download on the Irish Aid website: www.irishaid.gov.ie
In the recently launched White Paper on Irish Aid , the Government announced that in the medium term the number of programme countries will increase from eight to ten. Malawi is to be the ninth Irish Aid programme country. In addition, Irish Aid will increase its support to fragile states, with a specific focus on Liberia and Sierra Leone in West Africa.
236 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of passports being replaced annually due to them being lost or stolen; and the figures for each of the past ten years. [42066/06]
The number of Irish passports reported as lost or stolen has generally remained consistent at between 3.5% and 4.5% of those issued each year. The table shows the relevant figures for the years 2000 to 2005. The figures for the earlier years requested are not immediately to hand but, I understand, that the percentage of lost/stolen passports during that period also remained consistent in the 3.5% to 4.5% bracket.
|
Year |
Lost |
Stolen |
|
2000 |
12,734 |
1,413 |
|
2001 |
18,587 |
4,893 |
|
2002 |
17,170 |
1,763 |
|
2003 |
19,041 |
2,774 |
|
2004 |
20,075 |
2,243 |
|
2005 |
22,160 |
2,841 |
The Government has invested heavily (€34M) in passport development in recent years. As a result, the Irish passport now contains a range of sophisticated anti-fraud elements. It is widely regarded as among the best and most secure in the world.
The most recent upgrade (€6.6M) in October this year involved the introduction of the ePassport which includes the addition of facial imaging as a biometric marker. The new ePassport will help ensure that lost or stolen passports cannot be used for impersonation purposes, as any attempt to substitute the original photo will be readily detectable.
237 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will give a breakdown per constituency for the past five years of projects funded by the national lottery moneys through his Department. [41824/06]
The total amount of National Lottery funding provided by my Department to projects for the last five years is €396,762,203 in respect of sports capital funding. However, as statistics are not retained in my Department on the basis of constituencies, it is not possible to provide the information as requested by the Deputy. Details of allocations for the sports capital programme on a county basis are contained in the Annual Reports of my Department, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library.
238 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the schedule being followed in respect of the capital sports grants programme. [41940/06]
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 November 24th last. All of the applications received before the deadline will be evaluated against the programme's detailed assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
239 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will detail each notification of redundancies to his Department by companies in Waterford city and county in each year from the beginning of 2002 up to 30 November, 2006; the name of the company and the number of redundancies involved in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41967/06]
The number of collective redundancies notified to this Department from the beginning of 2002 to 30th November 2006 for Waterford City and County was 2077. A yearly breakdown is shown in the table.
A collective redundancy occurs where the minimum number of employees employed in a company would be greater than 20 and the number of employees it is proposed to make redundant within that workforce would be at least 5 and the organisation is thereby obliged to notify the Department of the collective redundancy.
The number of actual redundancies that occurred in Waterford City and County from the beginning of 2002 up to 30th November 2006 amounts to 3801. A yearly breakdown is in the table.
It would be impractical to compile a list of individual names of the companies and the number of redundancies involved. If the Deputy wishes to put forward the names of specific companies, the relevant information will be provided.
|
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
Total |
|
|
Collective Redundancy Notifications |
271 |
535 |
406 |
695 |
170 |
2,077 |
|
Actual Redundancies* |
636 |
652 |
885 |
998 |
630 |
3,801 |
*Footnote: For the period 2002-2004 inclusive, these figures relate to individual dismissal notices.
From 2005 onwards the figures relate to actual redundancies.
240 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will take steps to increase the living alone allowance as same has not been increased for a number of years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41852/06]
The living alone increase is an additional payment of €7.70 per week made to people aged 66 years or over who are in receipt of certain social welfare payments and who are living alone. It is also available to people who are under 66 years of age who are living alone and who receive payments under one of a number of invalidity type schemes. The increase is intended as a contribution towards the additional costs people face when they live alone.
The policy in relation to support for pensioners has been, for many years, to give priority to increasing the personal rates of pension, as demonstrated in significant increases. Rather than focusing on payments such as the living alone increase. This approach ensures that resources are used to improve the position of all pensioners and is subject to regular review. That review did take place this year as usual and it was decided to continue with the policy of a significant increase in the personal rate.
241 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if rent allowance will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41881/06]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare Division of the Health Service Executive. The Executive has advised, that while it has received a rent supplement application from the person concerned, it has requested additional information together with supporting documentation in order that a decision can be made. The Executive has further advised that it has not yet received the documentation requested.
242 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will delineate the amount of supplementary rent allowance being paid in Dublin and the rest of the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41891/06]
243 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount of supplementary rent allowance paid in each of the years 2000 to date in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41892/06]
I propose to take Question Nos. 242 and 243 together.
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive. The purpose of the scheme is to provide short-term income support, in the form of a weekly or monthly payment, to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.
Details of the expenditure on rent supplement on a county by county basis are not available; however, the tables provide details of the expenditure on rent supplement for each of the former Health Board Areas for 2006. Details of expenditure on the rent supplement scheme nationwide from 2000 to 2006 are also outlined.
|
Former H.B. Area |
€000 |
|
Eastern |
178,622 |
|
Midland |
9,899 |
|
Mid-Western |
18,057 |
|
North Eastern |
12,700 |
|
North Western |
10,830 |
|
South Eastern |
28,701 |
|
Southern |
38,483 |
|
Western |
26,374 |
|
Total |
323,666 |
(1) End October.
|
Year |
Expenditure |
|
€000 |
|
|
2000 |
150,590 |
|
2001 |
179,438 |
|
2002 |
252,340 |
|
2003 |
331,470 |
|
2004 |
353,760 |
|
2005 |
368,705 |
244 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if in relation to landlord regulations and supplementary rent allowance, he will introduce a policy that checks if landlords, to which the supplementary rent allowance is paid, are registered with the Private Residential Tenancies Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41893/06]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive, provides for the payment of a rent supplement to assist eligible people who are unable to provide for their immediate accommodation needs from their own resources and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.
Under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004, landlords are legally obliged to register tenancies with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). My Department is committed to working closely with the PRTB to ensure that tenancies that come within the area of rent supplementation comply with the statutory system of tenancy regulation and safeguards. To that end, my Department provides details of rent supplement payments to the PRTB to enable them to identify tenancies that are not registered and to take any follow-up action necessary.
245 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is not receiving the living alone allowance. [41894/06]
In order to receive Living Alone Increase a person must be living alone and, if over 66, must be in receipt of one of the following Social Welfare payments: State Pension (Contributory or Non-contributory), State Pension (Transition). As the person concerned is not in receipt of any payment from my Department she cannot avail of the Living Alone Increase.
246 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason people on disability benefit do not receive the Christmas bonus; and if he will change this situation. [42001/06]
The Christmas Bonus has again been paid this year to all recipients of long-term social welfare payments, at a rate equivalent to 100% of the person's normal weekly payment, subject to a minimum payment of €30. This measure costs an estimated €157 million this year and benefited some 1.25 million persons comprising 855,000 recipients and 394,000 dependants.
The focus of the bonus has always been on persons who rely on the social welfare system for financial support over the long term. These include recipients of State Pension (Transition), State Pension (Contributory and Non-contributory), Widow's, Widower's and Invalidity Pensions, One-parent Family Payment, Carer's Allowance, Disability Allowance, long-term Jobseeker's Allowance, Farm Assist and people in receipt of employment support payments.
As Carer's Benefit is now payable for up to 2 years, the bonus was, for the first time this year, paid to recipients of this benefit. The bonus is also payable to participants in the Rural Social Scheme, which was introduced in 2004, and operates under the aegis of the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
Any extension of entitlement to the bonus payment to short-term schemes would have significant cost implications. In relation to illness benefit, it is open to persons who have been in receipt of illness benefit for at least a year to apply for Invalidity Pension, and, if they qualify for the pension, they would also qualify for the Christmas Bonus payment.
247 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in cases of joint custody, it is his Department’s policy and practice to assess both parents in the same manner when applying for rent supplement. [42046/06]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive. The purpose of the scheme is to provide short-term income support, in the form of a weekly or monthly payment, to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.
Every claim for rent supplement is determined having regard to the particular circumstances of the applicant. Any person seeking a rent supplement must first satisfy the Executive that they have a housing need that they are unable to meet from their own resources. In addition, the Executive must be satisfied that the residence is reasonably suited to the residential and other needs of the claimant. The Executive must also be satisfied that the rent payable is reasonable having regard to the nature, character and location of the residence.
In a case where parents have joint custody of a child, the needs of both parents to have adequate accommodation to look after the child are taken into account when an application for a rent supplement is being determined. In such cases, documentation is normally required showing the joint custody arrangement before a decision can be made. The fact that the one parent is in receipt of rent supplement would not in itself preclude the other parent from being entitled to assistance towards their rent.
248 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Transport if steps will be taken to advise the motoring public on the length of time for alcohol retention in their bloodstream in view of the apparent Garda strategy of breath testing people on their way to work in the morning; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41954/06]
The Road Safety Authority, which has responsibility for road safety advertising and promotion, recently launched its Christmas Drink Driving Campaign. One of the key messages of that campaign reminds motorists that the morning after is also a dangerous time to drive if they have been drinking the night before.
249 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Transport if steps will be taken to ensure that all road signs are bilingual; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41955/06]
Statutory responsibility for the provision of traffic signs, both regulatory and non-regulatory signs, and responsibility to comply with the statutory format laid down for such signs, rests with each road authority.
The statutory directions that the Minister for Transport has given to road authorities in relation to the display of text on traffic signs are set out in the Traffic Signs Manual (a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas library) and in particular chapters 1 and 5 thereof.
250 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Transport if he has issued a SI order prohibiting fishing vessels from towing operations other than fishing nets, with reference to Maritime Safety Act 2005, section 47 safety regulations — passenger boats, fishing vessels and pleasure craft (19)-(2) (g) and the 1992 Act as amended by section 44 of the 2000 Act as amended by No. 11/2005 of the Maritime Safety Act 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42006/06]
I have not made any regulations prohibiting the towing of anything (other than fishing nets) by or from fishing vessels nor do I have any plans to do so currently.
251 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date in the renegotiation of the West-Link toll agreement; the details of the Government strategy in this regard; and the timescale for the finalisation of those negotiations. [41995/06]
At the outset, I should explain that overall responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the M50, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned. I have no function in relation to the day-to-day operation of these projects.
In addition, the statutory power to levy tolls on national roads, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into toll agreements with private investors in respect of national roads, including the M50, is vested in the National Roads Authority (NRA) under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000).
As the Deputy is aware, last January, for commercial and strategic reasons, the National Roads Authority (NRA) decided to end the arrangement with National Toll Roads (NTR) that has been in place under an agreement entered into in 1987 for the collection of tolls at West Link up to 2020.
Instead, I understand that the NRA is separately procuring a single point barrier free toll system which will become operational in quarter 3 of 2008. This will coincide with the completion of Phase 1 of the upgrade of the M50 — the section between the N4 and the Ballymount interchanges. NTR will be compensated in accordance with the 1987 Agreement.
The exact details of the arrangements, including compensation, are being finalised at present between NRA and NTR. The arrangements under consideration provide for the complete termination as of Quarter 3, 2008 of the West-Link agreement which relates to NTR's contractual right to charge tolls on the N3 to N4 section of the M50. NTR do not own the West-Link bridge section — they hold the concession to charge tolls on that particular section of the M50.
As the proposed termination will not take effect until 2008, NTR will continue to operate in accordance with the existing concession until that time.
As I mentioned, the NRA/NTR discussions are in the process of being finalised at present. Until those discussions are concluded, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on their likely outcome. My Department is continuing to monitor the situation.
252 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the amount of subvention in each case he will provide to Bus Éireann, Dublin Bus and Iarnród Éireann in 2007; the amount in each case actually applied for; the way the agreed figure is arrived at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41997/06]
A provision of €306.363m has been included in the 2007 Estimates for compensation to be paid to the CIE companies in respect of their public service obligations. While this provision is less than the €311.45m sought by the companies it nevertheless represents an 8% increase on the expected 2006 outturn of €285m. This substantial increase of 8% takes account of the additional operating costs associated with the additional buses for which funding was approved in September last. The increased provision for 2007 maintains the policy pursued in recent years of an annual increase in the compensation to CIE.
Over the period since 2001 the annual compensation has grown from €222.296m in 2001 to €306.363m in 2007 — an increase of almost 38%. The total amount paid in the period 2001 to date in 2006 is €1.5bn. The allocation of the 2007 provision between the three companies has yet to be finalised by my Department in consultation with CIE.
253 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied with the increase in costs for the proposed second terminal for Dublin Airport since its announcement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42000/06]
Following a wide-ranging consultation process involving users, statutory authorities and other interested parties, last August the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) published its proposals for a second terminal at Dublin Airport (T2). The planning application for the proposed new terminal was approved, with conditions, by Fingal County Council in October last. Subject to the outcome of the planning appeal process, construction of the new terminal will begin in summer 2007.
The DAA has informed me that as part of this consultation process it was made aware of the updated expansion of some of the key airlines operating out of Dublin Airport. To accommodate this growth the DAA decided to develop a 75,000 sq. metre terminal instead of the initially planned 50,000 metre facility.
I would also point out that the consultants appointed by my Department to verify the specification and cost of the second terminal concluded that the methodology, approach and execution of the planning objectives and considerations for passengers adopted by the DAA accords with best practice. They also found that the estimated cost of the new terminal is within industry norms for this type of project in a European capital city. A copy of the report is available on my Departments website (www.transport.ie).
254 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Transport his plans for upgrading a station (details supplied) in County Donegal. [41823/06]
Proposals to develop the Malin Head Station are being considered as part of the future development of the Marine Emergency co-ordination services of the Irish Coast Guard. This process is on going and will be completed as quickly as possible.
255 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Transport if comparisons have been made regarding the cost of road building in the UK and here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41853/06]
At the outset, I should explain that the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned.
I understand that the NRA is currently carrying out an analysis to establish the comparative cost of road construction in other European countries. This work is currently ongoing and information is being sought from the various representative organisations of the countries involved. However, my Department is informed by the NRA that on the basis of the information received to date the cost of the motorway road projects carried out in Ireland do compare favourably with the costs of such projects in the UK. Further information and analysis by the NRA is required before final conclusions can be drawn.
256 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the progress made on the maximum speed limit for certain categories of large vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41854/06]
The Road Traffic (Ordinary Speed Limits — Certain Vehicles) Regulations 2005 (S.1. No. 9 of 2005) sets out the maximum ordinary speed limit at which specified classes of vehicles can be driven on any public road except where a lower maximum road speed limit applies. A review of these vehicle related maximum speed limits, known in law as ordinary speed limits, is underway at present in my Department.
258 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the number of road traffic accident deaths recorded in 2006; the comparison figures for 1990, 1996 and 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41856/06]
The number of fatalities as a result of road traffic collisions to date (as of 4 December) in 2006 is 340. The number of fatalities for 1990, 1996 and 2000 are 478, 453 and 415 respectively.
259 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the number of Dublin Bus vehicles and their seat capacity that are on commuting services routes to the city centre on a daily basis; the number of additional vehicles that Dublin Bus have identified for such services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41857/06]
I am informed by Dublin Bus that it currently has a fleet of 1082 buses with a total seating capacity of 77,130 providing services in the Dublin area. Dublin Bus will introduce an additional 100 buses over the coming 6 months.
260 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the progress with regard to the EU regulation 3820/85; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41858/06]
EC Regulation No. 3820/85 is being repealed and replaced by Regulation No. 561/2006 on the harmonisation of certain social legislation relating to road transport.
Regulation No. 561/2006 which has automatic legal effect in the State comes into force from 11th April 2007 with the exception of certain provisions relating to the fitment of digital tachographs, obligations in relation to record sheets and printouts and the downloading of data from digital tachograph units and driver cards which came into effect from 1 May 2006.
261 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Transport the additional funding available to Dublin Bus to increase Dublin Bus capacity over the past ten years; the comparison figures for DART services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41859/06]
Over the period 1997-2006, Exchequer capital grants totalling over €70m have been paid to Dublin Bus in respect of bus purchases and over €240m to Iarnród Éireann in respect of DART Upgrade works. The funding to Dublin Bus is in addition to the funding provided by the Company from its own resources for the purchase of buses.
262 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that inspections for public service vehicle licences can take up to six months from time of application in County Waterford; his views on whether this is causing great difficulty for bus operators in County Waterford who wish to submit an application to his Department for a passenger licence; if he will hold discussions with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform with a view to securing additional Garda resources to carry out inspections in respect of PSV licences in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41978/06]
The grant of large public service vehicle licences is a matter for the Garda Authorities who are also responsible for the administration of the vehicle licensing and associated vehicle testing process. I have no function in this matter or in the deployment of additional Garda resources in the Waterford area.
263 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the measures he is considering or are available to him to introduce a national policy or legislation specifically aimed at setting out the criteria by which areas here may be designated specifically as residents only parking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41979/06]
I am aware that parking problems arise on the roads in the environs of stadia such as Croke Park on match and other event days when a large influx of motorists from outside the area park on residential roads for the duration of the events. Last summer, I met with a deputation from local residents associations from the Croke Park environs and some local public representatives to hear their case.
On match and event days, the Garda Authorities put in place extensive traffic management plans. This includes a Garda cordon area for crowd safety controls and to regulate access. This has been put in place for many years now in respect of the streets in the immediate vicinity of Croke Park and Lansdowne Road when matches or other major events are held there. Divisional Garda Traffic Corps Units also patrol the outlying areas prior to and subsequent to any event ensuring the traffic flow is maintained.
Vehicle owners who reside within the Garda cordon area may apply for an annual permit to allow that vehicle to enter and exit through the cordon barriers. The regulation of access and residents permits measures are implemented and administered by the Garda Síochána, as are other traffic management and parking prohibitions that are applied in the greater Stadium area on event dates.
The issue being raised now is that residents on roads that lie outside of the existing cordon areas are seeking that parking be reserved on a Residents Only basis in their areas on match and event days and that vehicle permits and a visitors permit be issued in respect of each premises. This proposal, if accepted, would effectively prohibit or exclude the general public from parking on a public road.
The issue of reserving parking on public roads to local residents is very complex and is much broader than in the context of match days at Croke Park or Lansdowne Road stadia. The discussion and debate on this issue has also drawn attention to the fact that inconvenience can also be experienced by residents where parking congestion can arise on a daily basis on public roads in residential areas in other circumstances countrywide.
At some locations throughout the country, parking on residential roads is now taken up on a daily basis, and not just on periodic match or event dates, by motorists, who use the location to park if working nearby or to use the location as a ‘park and ride facility' while they commute onwards by bus, rail or tram to work and collect their vehicle later that day on return. Legal advice on the matter has been sought from the Attorney General and the matter will be considered further when advice is received.
264 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if consideration has been given to the provision of a rail spur from Sallins to Naas with particular reference to the need to encourage the use of commuter rail services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42011/06]
275 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if consideration has been given or is expected to be given to extending rail spurs, where possible, to commuter belt areas currently lacking rail services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42024/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 264 and 275 together.
Transport 21 sets out the investments to take place in extending the rail network to enhance the range of railway services available to commuters in the period up to 2015. While there will be significant developments on the Kildare line, a rail link to Naas does not form part of the investment programme.
265 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the car parking available for commuters at Sallins rail station, Sallins, County Kildare; the plans to increase this capacity in order to encourage the use of rail transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42012/06]
266 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the car parking available for commuters at Confey rail station, Leixlip, County Kildare; the plans to increase this capacity in order to encourage the use of rail transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42013/06]
267 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the car parking available for commuters at Leixlip rail station, County Kildare; the plans to increase this capacity in order to encourage the use of rail transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42014/06]
268 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the car parking available for commuters at Maynooth rail station, Maynooth, County Kildare; the plans to increase this capacity in order to encourage the use of rail transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42015/06]
269 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the car parking available for commuters at Kilcock rail station, Kilcock, County Kildare; the plans to increase this capacity in order to encourage the use of rail transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42016/06]
270 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the car parking available for commuters at Hazelhatch rail station, Celbridge, County Kildare; the plans to increase this capacity in order to encourage the use of rail transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42017/06]
276 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to provide free parking in the vicinity of commuter rail stations in order to encourage the use of rail services by commuters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42025/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 265 to 270, inclusive, and 276 together.
The provision of car parking at railway stations is a matter for Iarnród Éireann in conjunction, where appropriate, with the relevant local authority. My Department will consider applications from Iarnród Éireann for funding of such measures. The imposition of parking fees for such parking is a matter for the Company.
My Department has asked Iarnród Éireann to forward details of car parking available and planned at railway stations in Co. Kildare to the Deputy.
272 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which extra commuters are expected to be carried by bus in each of the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42021/06]
274 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the extent to which calculations has been made to attract more passengers off the road towards the rail services with particular reference to the commuter belt areas in the next five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42023/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 272 and 274 together.
A fundamental objective of the public transport investment programme under Transport 21 is to increase the use of public transport use by providing fast, convenient and safe alternatives to the private car. Investment under the programme in recent years has funded a major expansion in the capacity of commuter rail, including light rail, and bus services. Capacity on the Maynooth railway line, for example, has already more than trebled in the last five years. Dublin Bus capacity has increased by approximately 30% since 1999, while LUAS has carried over 50 million passengers since its inception in mid-2004. The success of these investments is reflected in the increase in passenger carryings on these services, particularly at peak times.
Investment in heavy and light rail and in bus services will be maintained at a high level under Transport 21. It provides for a total investment of approximately €16 billion in public transport throughout the country, including approximately €770 million for upgrading bus services. Over the next five years, commuters can expect a significant increase in capacity and improvements in services on the bus, rail and Luas networks.
273 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if traffic freeflow management will be extended throughout the year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42022/06]
Operation Freeflow, the traffic management initiative for Dublin for the Christmas and New Year period, is now in its eleventh year. There are several reasons why this initiative is not continued around the year.
First, in the period around Christmas and New Year there are different patterns of travel in the city. In particular, far more people are travelling later in the evening, with a great increase in late-night shopping. The additional late-night public transport services provided during Operation Freeflow would not be matched by take-up by the public at other times of the year. The ban on road works, which plays such an important role in Operation Freeflow, would also not be a viable option year-round.
Finally, Freeflow involves putting a large number of extra probationary Gardaí on the streets. As you will appreciate, Garda resources are in demand across a variety of enforcement functions — the retention of so many Gardaí on Freeflow-type duty after traffic volumes revert to normal levels and patterns would be questionable. However, I anticipate that the resourcing situation year-round on traffic duties (including road safety, checkpoints, lane enforcements etc.) will strengthen as the traffic corps grows.
Apart from Operation Freeflow, Transport 21 will make a substantial impact on congestion as the various major investments in traffic management, public transport and roads are rolled out over the coming years.
277 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport the way it is intended to co-ordinate traffic management in the greater Dublin area in the next five years in view of the limited routes to and from the port tunnel and the high growing volumes of traffic; the extent to which commuters are expected to be facilitated by road, rail and bus with a view to minimising delays and increasing the availability of public transport as an attractive alternative to motor car use and with specific reference to the way potential commuters can get quick and easy access to rail stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42026/06]
The report of the Dublin Transport Authority Establishment Team made a number of recommendations in respect of traffic management. The Team concluded that there needed to be an integrated policy approach to traffic management across the Greater Dublin Area (GDA), based on international best practice. They recommended that the Dublin Transport Authority should be obliged to prepare a strategic traffic management plan for the Greater Dublin Area. The Dublin Transport Authority should also be responsible for coordinating the traffic management arrangements during the construction phase of Transport 21.
Traffic management functions should continue to be discharged by local authorities but, in exercising their functions, they would be obliged to comply with the strategic traffic management plan of the Authority. However, the report also recommended that the Dublin Transport Authority should be given power to decide to perform certain traffic management functions itself or through a third party where it considered this to be more effective. It further proposed that the Authority should be empowered to issue policy guidelines and mandatory directions to local authorities in respect of its traffic management functions.
I share the views of the Establishment Team in relation to the need for an integrated approach to traffic management in the Greater Dublin Area. I am also of the view that the range of powers for a Dublin Transport Authority in respect of traffic management proposed by the Team would deliver such an integrated approach. These powers would also enable the Authority to ensure the effective management of any disruption to traffic caused by construction works during the delivery of key infrastructure projects under Transport 21.
The drafting of legislation to give effect to these recommendations is at an advanced stage in the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel.
A fundamental aim of Transport 21 is to transform the public transport system in the Greater Dublin Area in order to cater for increased demands for services in the Area and to provide an attractive alternative for commuters to the private car. A total of €14 billion has been provided under Transport 21 to develop two Metro lines, seven Luas lines and an expanded DART and suburban rail system. The number of buses in the GDA will be increased significantly and the Quality Bus Corridor network will be doubled. A key element of Transport 21 will be to put in place an integrated system that provides easy access and optimal interchange possibilities for commuters.
279 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport his progress with regard to the mainstreaming and extension of the rural transport initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42045/06]
The Rural Transport Initiative (RTI) was launched on a pilot basis in 2002. Under this scheme, thirty-four community transport groups throughout the country are being funded to address the particular transport needs of their rural areas. Pobal administers the scheme on behalf of my Department.
The pilot phase of the Initiative will conclude at the end of this year and in line with Government announcements in the matter, preparations are now being made to mainstream the provision of rural transport from 2007 onwards. This work is based on the experience with the pilot RTI and the outcome of a recent public consultation process in the matter. I expect to make an announcement on the matter shortly.
In line with commitments in Towards 2016 and in parallel with the implementation of Transport 21, Euro 9 million is being provided for the RTI in 2007, compared with €5.1 million in 2005.
In making specific allocations to the individual RTI project groups from this funding, I expect Pobal to work closely with the existing groups to maximise the impact of the funding through, among other things, increased service provision and wider area coverage as well as ensuring continued value for money.
280 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will give a breakdown per constituency for the past five years of projects funded by the national lottery moneys through his Department. [41828/06]
My Department does not keep records on a constituency-by-constituency basis.
Lottery Funding is provided in 2006 and preceding years in respect of expenditure by my Department under three subheads: Ciste na Gaeilge; Grants for Community and Voluntary Services; and Local and Community Development.
Details of all payments in excess of €6,350 made under these programmes are included in the published Appropriation Accounts, copies of which are available in the Dáil Library. The Deputy may also wish to note that details of payments made under the Community Development Programme are provided to the Dáil Library each year.
I trust that this information is of assistance to the Deputy.
281 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad é an dul chun cinn atá déanta maidir le teidil talaimh a réiteach le haghaidh aerstráice ar Oileán Thoraí. [41842/06]
Faoi mar is eol don Teachta, tá obair réamh-phleanála i gcomhair aerstráice a thógáil ar Oileán Thoraí idir lámha ag Údarás na Gaeltachta le cúpla bliain anuas. Ag eascairt ón obair seo, fuarthas cead pleanála don fhorbairt ó Chomhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall i 2004.
Tá aontaithe ag Comhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall Orduithe Ceannacháin Éigeantaigh a chur i bhfeidhm ar an talamh a theastaíonn don togra agus, i láthair na huaire, tá socruithe á ndéanamh maidir le húinéirí an talaimh sin a aithint.
282 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil iarratas faighte ag a Roinn ar dheontas do Chéidh Inis Bó Finne, Dún na nGall; cad é an obair atá beartaithe; cad é costas measta na hoibre agus an bhfuil deontas á cheadú. [41861/06]
Níos luaithe i mbliana, fuair mo Roinn iarratas ó Chomhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall ar chúnamh le haghaidh oibreacha feabhsúcháin a chur i gcrích ar Ché Inis Bó Finne ar chostas measta de €300,000. Iarradh ar an gComhairle Chontae, ag an am sin, tairiscintí a lorg don obair ionas go mbeifí in ann an t-iarratas ar chúnamh a mheas bunaithe ar chostas cruinn, seachas costas measta.
Tuigtear go bhfuil na tairiscintí a fuarthas i gcomhair an togra seo á meas ag an gComhairle Chontae faoi láthair agus go bhfuil i gceist iarratas nua a dhéanamh le mo Roinnse go luath. Ach an t-iarratas sin bheith faighte, déanfar é a mheas i gcomhthéacs an airgid a bheidh ar fáil dom le caitheamh ar fhorbairt oileán agus nan-éileamh éagsúla ar an airgead sin.
283 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cad iad na pleananna le breis fostaíochta a chur ar fáil í gCeantar na Gaeltachta Láir Dhún na nGall; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [41862/06]
Dírím aird an Teachta ar an bhfreagra a thug mé ar Cheist Dála Uimh. 351 den 28 Feabhra 2006 inar míníodh go raibh iarrachtaí leanúnacha ar siúl ag Údarás na Gaeltachta chun tionscnaimh bhreise a aimsiú don Ghaeltacht Láir i gContae Dhún na nGall. Sa chomhthéacs sin, tuigtear dom go bhfuil dhá ionad (spás c. 1,300 m2 agus c. 300 m2) ar fáil ag an Údarás do thograí sa cheantar. Ní miste a lua freisin go bhfuil scéimeanna fostaíochta pobail á reáchtáil go háitiúil faoi choimirce an Údaráis, mar aon le scéimeanna sóisialta tuaithe atá á maoiniú ag mo Roinn féin.
Mar thoradh ar na gníomhaíochtaí leanúnacha atá ar bun ag an Údarás, ag mo Roinn féin agus ag an Stát i gcoitinne i ndáil le hinfrastruchtúr agus seirbhísí, tá tionchar dearfach á imirt ar chúrsaí fostaíochta, eacnamaíochta agus sóisialta araon. I measc tionscadal áitiúla den chineál sin, áirím Ionad Cholmcille (ionad lae, ionad sláinte agus naíonra) i mBaile na Finne, Comhlacht Traenach na Gaeltachta Láir Teoranta, agus Ionad Sláinte agus Lae i nGleann Fhinne.
284 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his Department’s expenditure in community development in Galway city over the past year. [41896/06]
285 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his Department’s expenditure in community development in Galway city over his term in office as Minister. [41897/06]
286 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his Department’s expenditure in community development in the Doughiska area of Galway over the past year and over his term in office as Minister. [41898/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 284 to 286, inclusive, together.
I regret that in the time available it has not been possible to collate all of the information sought. I will write to the Deputy as soon as possible enclosing that information.
287 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when payment of the EU single farm payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [41807/06]
The position is that an application for the Transfer of Entitlements under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme from the first person named to the joint names of the two persons named was submitted on the 27th of October 2006. The application was accepted even though the closing date for receipt of completed applications to transfer entitlements was 16 May 2006. This application has now been fully processed and payment in respect of 76.25 transferred entitlements will issue shortly.
288 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason the area based payment has not been awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Galway. [41808/06]
An application under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 25 April 2006. The processing of this application is being finalised by my Department and it is expected that payment will issue shortly.
289 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if arrangements will be made to have payment of the single farm payment made to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [41809/06]
An application under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme was received from the person named on 28 April 2006. Following processing of the application, it was found that part of the land included by the person named on her SPS application was also the subject of a claim under the 2006 Scheme by another applicant. Following correspondence with both parties, it was confirmed that the person named was not entitled to claim the land in question. The regulatory penalty was applied, which resulted in a 100% penalty under the 2006 Scheme. The person named has been advised of this and of her right to appeal this decision to the Agriculture Appeals Office.
290 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of farmers who have qualified for the single farm payment in County Mayo; the number who have been awarded to date; and the number outstanding. [41817/06]
Applications were received from 13,069 Mayo herd owners under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme and, to date, payment has issued to approximately 89% of these applicants.
Delays in processing can be caused by many factors, including incomplete application forms, errors on applications and discrepancies highlighted following computer validation, which must be resolved via correspondence with the applicant. The majority of those cases, which have yet to receive payment, are where applicants did not submit an application to transfer the Single Payment entitlements, with lands, by way of inheritance, gift, lease or purchase.
My Department will continue to issue payments to farmers, as outstanding problems are resolved.
291 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the allocation from the national reserve that has been allocated to a person (details supplied) in County Galway. [41841/06]
The person named submitted an application for an allocation of entitlements from the 2005 Single Payment Scheme National Reserve under Category B.
Category B caters for farmers who made an investment in production capacity in a farming sector for which a direct payment under Livestock Premia and/or Arable Aid schemes would have been payable during the reference period 2000-2002. Investments can include purchase or long term lease of land, purchase of suckler and/or ewe quota or other investments. The person named applied under Category B(ii) in relation to the purchase of suckler quota and has been deemed successful.
A formal letter outlining my Department's decision on the National Reserve has issued to the person named and payment will issue shortly.
292 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position on the review of the regulations for temporary milk quota leasing for the year 2007 to 2008. [41860/06]
Under the Milk Quota Regulations a producer who has delivered some milk in the current quota year can offer the undelivered part of a milk quota into the Temporary Leasing Scheme.
Up until the 2005/06 quota year a rule applied whereby, if a producer delivered less than 70% of their quota in two consecutive years, the undelivered part could be added to the National Reserve. This rule was changed with effect from the current 2006/07 quota year, and the 70% minimum level of deliveries does not now apply.
The Milk Quota Review Group is a group comprised of representatives of the farm organisations, the processing sector, technical advisors, and my Department, which advises me on matters relating to the management of Ireland's milk quota. In general, changes to quota schemes are made following consultation with the Milk Quota Review Group. The 70% rule change, and the details of the 2007/08 Temporary Leasing Scheme will be reviewed at the next meeting of the Group in the new year.
293 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will sign or ratify the European Convention on Protection of Pet Animals; the reason this convention has not been ratified to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41960/06]
My Department has statutory responsibility for the welfare and protection of animals kept for farming purposes only and it does not extend to animals kept as pets. I understand that the matters relating to ratification of Council of Europe Conventions and the responsibility of Departments in that regard are still under consideration.
294 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary under the single farm payment scheme. [41988/06]
The position is that an application for the Transfer of Entitlements under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme from the person named to the joint names of the person named and another person was submitted on the 2nd of November 2006. The application was accepted even though the closing date for receipt of completed applications to transfer entitlements was 16 May 2006.
This application has now been fully processed and payment in respect of 25.40 transferred entitlements will issue shortly.
295 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science when she will sign a document (details supplied). [41810/06]
The document referred to by the Deputy has been executed on my behalf and has been returned to the Chief State Solicitor's Office.
296 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will give a breakdown per constituency for the past five years of projects funded by the national lottery moneys through her Department. [41825/06]
Data relating to expenditure by my Department is not maintained on a constituency basis and it would take an inordinate amount of time to collate the information sought by the Deputy.
Details of the organisations funded by the National Lottery through my Department's Vote are contained in the Appropriation Accounts published annually. If there is a specific project in which the Deputy has a particular interest I would be glad to provide additional information.
297 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science if an application for funding has been received from an organisation (details supplied) in County Donegal; when it was received; if a decision has been made; and if a grant will be approved. [41843/06]
The Youth Affairs Section of my Department provides support for a number of schemes and initiatives designed to ensure the provision of non-formal educational opportunities for young people throughout the country. This consists mainly of grant-aid assistance for national and major regional youth organisations under the Youth Service Grant Scheme, special projects for disadvantaged young people under the Special Projects for Youth Scheme and the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund which targets those young people at risk from substance misuse.
I understand that an application for funding has not been received on behalf of the organisation referred to by the Deputy under any of these schemes. I am arranging for further information on the schemes and programmes administered by Youth Affairs Section to be forwarded separately to the Deputy.
298 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the long delay in providing a school building site at a location (details supplied) in County Cork, she will consider requesting the Office of Public Works to use a compulsory purchase order; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41846/06]
I am advised by the Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works (OPW), who act on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally, that a suitable site has been identified for the provision of a new school referred to by the Deputy. The site comprises of three parcels of land. The up-to-date position on the acquisition of these lands is as follows:
Plot 1 — At conveyancing
Plot 2 — Awaiting contracts
Plot 3 — Agreement on price reached, subject to contract.
Contracts awaited — the OPW understand that the receipt from the vendor of contracts may be delayed depending on other planning matters being resolved in the first instance. I am further advised by the OPW that there is no provision for its Office to acquire lands compulsorily. On completion of the acquisition of the site, the project can then be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.
299 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta an gcáilíonn cúntóirí riachtanais speisialta i ranganna bunscoileanna do liúntas na Gaeltachta a íoctar le gnáthmhúinteoirí bunscoile. [41863/06]
Is é an chaoi a bhfuil an scéal ná nach n-íocann mo Roinnse liúntas Gaeltachta do chúntóirí riachtanas speisialta a fhostaítear i mbunscoileanna i limistéir Ghaeltachta.
300 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the rate of retention in secondary school from 1997 to date in respect of schools in the greater Dublin area; the school with the highest retention rate; the school with the lowest retention rate; if she has information on the relative retention rates as between boys and girls at secondary school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41865/06]
The latest data published by my Department on retention rates in second-level schools relate to the cohort of entrants to the first year of junior cycle in 1996. (Students in this cohort would have sat the Leaving Certificate in either 2002 or 2003, depending on whether they took the Transition Year Programme). The published data for the 1996 cohort indicate an average "unadjusted" retention rate to Leaving Certificate of 72.1 for the Dublin area (combining the four Local Authority areas) as compared with a national average figure of 77.8%. The term "unadjusted" relates to the fact that the figures cited have not been adjusted to allow for factors such as emigration, death or cases of departure to privately aided second level colleges. The national adjusted Leaving Certificate retention rate for the 1996 cohort was 81.3%. The ‘unadjusted' rate of retention for males in Dublin was 67.1 compared to 77.5% for females in Dublin. The corresponding national averages were 72.1 and83.8%, respectively.
Retention data on individual schools or on schools in a particular local area are not made available separately by my Department due to my concerns about the way such information might be used to create school league tables with a detrimental effect on educational equality and a balanced approach to all dimensions of learning. It should be noted that just considering the level at which young people left the state-aided school system does not give an full picture of their educational attainment. Aside from those who transfer to private non-aided schools, many other young people go on to pursue other educational opportunities such as in Youthreach centres and on apprenticeship training courses.
With regard to those who leave school without completing the Leaving Certificate, the available statistical evidence indicates that the increasing range of further education and training opportunities available for these students is having a positive impact. CSO data show that the educational profile of 20-24 year olds in Ireland has improved steadily over the last five years, as increasing opportunities have been made available in the further education and training sector. By 2005, 87% of 20-24 year olds had attained upper second-level education (or equivalent), up from 82% in 2000. This compares with an EU average of 77% in 2005. This indicates both that there has been an increase in the proportion of young people in Ireland with at least the Leaving Certificate or equivalent, and that the attainment of our young people compares very well with their EU counterparts.
Nonetheless, we are determined to make further progress by continuing to pursue a dual strategy of both encouraging more young people to finish school and ensuring much greater second chance and further education opportunities for those who left school early. This kind of strategy ensures that young people are empowered to achieve their full potential, be that by sitting the Leaving Certificate or by pursuing qualifications through other pathways such as Youthreach or FÁS apprenticeships which may be more appropriate to their individual interests. Thus, it is important that the Deputy appreciates that looking at just the level of retention in the formal school system is not a fair assessment of the educational attainment of our young people.
This Government has prioritised a wide variety of measures for tackling educational disadvantage and social exclusion range from pre-school interventions, supports for tackling children's literacy problems, smaller class sizes, increased capitation grants, measures to tackle early school leaving and strengthen ties between the school, the family and the community. With regard to curriculum, we have worked to widen the educational experience available to students by expanding funding for programmes such as the Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP), Vocational Preparation Training (VPT) and the Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA).
The School Completion Programme was established to directly target those in danger of dropping out of the education system and is a key component of my Department's strategy to discriminate positively in favour of children and young people who are at risk of early school leaving. In line with current thinking, the Programme favours an integrated cross-community and cross-sectoral approach based on the development of local strategies to ensure maximum participation levels in the education process. It entails targeting individual young people aged 4-18, both in and out of school, and arranging supports to address inequalities in educational access, participation and outcomes.
The Home School Community Liaison (HSCL) Scheme is a key intervention to improve the educational outcomes of children from disadvantaged areas by promoting active cooperation between their parents and teachers and encouraging community involvement. Through their work with parents, HSCL officers seek to raise parents' awareness of the need to encourage their children to work hard at school and to help parents to improve their own capacities to enhance their children's educational progress and to assist them in developing relevant skills.
The Education Welfare Act and the establishment of the National Educational Welfare Board is also an important plank in the campaign to keep students at school and will provide a comprehensive framework for promoting regular school attendance and tackling the problems of absenteeism and early school leaving. As the Deputy will be aware, enhancing attendance, progression, retention and attainment are central to DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) the action plan for educational inclusion, which is being implemented at present. The action plan represents a shift in emphasis away from individual initiatives, each addressing a particular aspect of the problem, with the new plan adopting a multifaceted and more integrated approach. This is the first time that an integrated educational inclusion strategy has been developed for 3-18 year olds in this country.
The plan provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated School Support Programme (SSP) which will bring together and build upon, a number of existing interventions for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage. 670 primary schools, comprising 338 urban/town and 332 rural and 203 second-level schools, have been included in the School Support Programme. Many extra supports have been put in place under the DEIS Plan over the past year, while the 2007 Estimates will allow for further significant improvements next year. The key principle of early intervention underpins both the early childhood education measure and many of the literacy and numeracy measures being adopted under the new action plan.
The DEIS plan places a renewed emphasis on the involvement of parents and families in children's education in schools, with HSCL services being provided to all DEIS schools. The School Completion Programme will also be integrated into the new School Support Programme under the action plan.
Progression from primary to second-level is recognised as a crucial transition period in a child's education. Under the action plan, a continuing emphasis will be placed on the development of effective transfer programmes by building on the existing work of the Home School Community Liaison Scheme and the School Completion Programme. Other areas such as extending access to Schools' Business Partnerships, school meals, guidance counselling and student councils will also be facilitated through the action plan. In addition, increased integration will be promoted between the work of second-level schools and centres catering for young early school leavers, particularly Youthreach centres and Senior Traveller Training Centres. Also central to the success of the action plan will be an increased emphasis on planning at school and school cluster level, target-setting and measurement of progress and outcomes to ensure that the increased investment is matched by an improvement in educational outcomes for the children and young people concerned. So, through a variety of measures, this Government has worked hard to encourage more young people to finish school and to provide greater opportunities for those who left school early. We will continue to prioritise this area. To that end, the Deputy will be pleased to know that the total provision in the 2007 Estimates for educational inclusion programmes at all levels is €730 million — an increase of €95 million, or 15% on the 2006 figure. The 2007 provision includes a 20% increase in funding for the NEWB.
301 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Education and Science the provision being made for school leavers with significant intellectual disability to continue their education in third level centres in the Health Service Executive west area supported by the appropriate statutory partners; in view of the Government’s commitment to inclusion of people with disabilities and its obligation through the Disability Act 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41871/06]
The participation rate of students with a disability in third level education has improved significantly over the past ten years. In 1994, there were just 400 students with a disability in the sector (about 0.5% of full-time undergraduates), while recent indications from the Association for Higher Education Access and Disability (AHEAD) are that there are now over 2,700 students with a disability in higher education (about 2.4% of full-time undergraduates). Key measures which have contributed to this increase in participation have been the allocation by my Department through the HEA of dedicated strategic and core funding for the development of access and disability support services to higher education institutions. In addition, funding is allocated to a range of student supports and services through the Fund for Students with a Disability. In 2005/6, €1,631,979 was allocated to 408 students with a disability in 10 third level institutions in the HSE West area.
Figures from the National Office for Equity of Access to Third Level Education and AHEAD indicate that, on average, over half (52%) of all students with a disability in higher education have a specific learning disability (for example, dyslexia), about 16% of students have a mobility disability, 8% have mental health difficulties, 7% are deaf or hard of hearing, 5% are blind or visually impaired and 12% have other disabilities, including, I understand, a small number of students with intellectual disabilities.
Support structures across the education system, in particular systems of needs assessment and educational planning, are also being progressed by the National Council for Special Education, which was established on a statutory basis following the enactment of the Education for Persons with Special Needs Act 2004. The plan of work of the NCSE will ensure that the needs of young people with a disability in primary and secondary education are being met from the very earliest stages of their education. Under the Disability Act, 2005, the Council, in conjunction with the Health Service Executive, has a key role in supporting young people and adults with a disability in progressing their studies beyond school into further and higher education, the legislation also places important obligations on education providers in accommodating the needs of students with a disability. With improved systems of assessment and support for students in first and second level education, combined with the continuity of support provided for under the Disability Act 2005, I am confident that we will see more students with a disability, including those with an intellectual disability, progressing to further and higher education in the years to come.
302 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the promised second level school in Castaheany; when it will open its doors to students; if the site has been acquired; the cost or estimated cost and the size of the site; the number of pupils the school will cater for; when enrolments will commence; if a principal has been appointed; and when these appointments will take place. [41872/06]
The new post-primary school for Phibblestown has taken longer than expected due to difficulties in acquiring the site. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that as part of my Department's partnership with Fingal County Council the site purchase can now be concluded. The site is almost 8.5 acres in size and the legalities on the site purchase will be completed by County Dublin Vocational Education Committee. Due to the commercial sensitivities, I do not intend to comment on the agreed price at this time. The completion of the site purchase enables progress to be made on the delivery of the new school which will be as part of a design and build contract. It is too early at this stage to give a precise timeframe on when the school will be completed. However, a Principal Teacher will be appointed some months before the school is due to open to ensure efficient planning and organisation can take place, and a decision on the enrolling of students will be taken by the school management authority at that stage.
303 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the measures she is taking to increase secondary school places in an area (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41882/06]
The Department has already responded to the demand for additional school places in the area referred to by the Deputy by approving building projects at three Post Primary providers in the area. St. Joseph's College, received an extension to cater for 725 pupils. An extension project of 2,200 m2 was also provided for Coláiste Pádraig. The provision of this additional accommodation will enable the school to cater for 875 pupils. In addition a new school building of 4,565 m2 was recently completed for the Gaelcholáiste to cater for 600 pupils. My recent announcement regarding 80 schools with projects to progress to the appointment of a design team for additional accommodation included the local Community College. This school is to receive additional accommodation to cater for 1000 pupils. I am satisfied that a combination of all the measures outlined above will satisfy the demand for Post-Primary school places in that area. However, the Department will continue to monitor developments in the area to ensure that any emerging additional demands are addressed as expeditiously as possible.
304 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made in acquiring a site for a school in Newcastle, County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41883/06]
The Department has examined the long term accommodation needs of the Newcastle area of County Dublin and has determined that additional provision will be required to meet demand emanating from current and planned housing developments in the area. The matter of how best this additional accommodation should be provided having regard to existing accommodation and the alternative options available is currently under consideration. A decision in this regard will be made as soon as possible.
305 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made in acquiring a site for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41884/06]
The Department is acutely aware of the situation in the school referred to by the Deputy and the need for a permanent solution to its long term accommodation needs. It is in discussion with the Local Authority regarding issues on access to a proposed site. When these issues have been resolved, I will be in a position to provide details of the proposed site.
306 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding a site for a school (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41885/06]
The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works (OPW), which acts on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally, has been requested to source a site for the school referred to by the Deputy. The requirement for a site has been advertised and a technical assessment of the sites on offer has been completed. The matter is now with their Valuation Unit. In due course. a report on the OPW's findings will be provided to the Department. Once a suitable site has been secured, the project will then be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.
307 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the actions being pursued to ensure that the new physical education hall at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 is open to the local community; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41941/06]
My Department has provided funding in excess of €34m for the construction of nine dual use halls with enhanced facilities, attached to post-primary schools. Eight of the halls, including the hall referred to by the Deputy, are in Dublin and one is in Cork. The halls in question have been built as part of a joint programme to develop community sports facilities in drugs task force areas. As the halls are of a much greater magnitude than the average school PE hall, issues relating to the funding, management structure and staffing of the halls have had to be considered.
My Department has now given approval to County Dublin VEC to initiate the recruitment process to provide staff for the hall in question.
308 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the contacts she has had with a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in respect of the challenges faced by the school regarding their international community; the assistance being offered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41942/06]
Staff from my Department visited the area earlier this year and met with the Principals of both the Junior and Senior schools. At that time international enrolment in the Junior school was 182 pupils out of a total enrolment of 517. The corresponding figures for the Senior school were 188 out of a total enrolment of 521. The principals gave a presentation on the administrative and educational challenges facing the schools arising from the increase in newcomer pupils. The Department undertook to consider the schools' requests for additional language support teachers in the short term and for other additional resources in the longer term. In this connection, the Department conveyed approval to the Principal of the Senior School on 20 June, 2006 for the appointment of a third fulltime temporary teaching post provisionally for the 2006/2007 school year. As the Junior school already has three language support teacher posts sanctioned by the Department — the maximum allowed under current arrangements — no additional supports could be granted in the short term.
Between extra language support posts and grant aid, the level of support provided to schools to meet the needs of children whose first language is not English has increased dramatically in recent years. Nonetheless I am very conscious of the pressures on schools, including the school referred to by the Deputy, that have large numbers of non-English speaking children enrolled. I am determined to provide greater support for these schools. To that end, provision has been made in the 2007 Estimates for an extra 200 language support teachers in 2007. A further 350 posts will be provided under the Towards 2016 partnership agreement between 2008 and 2009. These extra posts will allow the current cap of 2 teachers per school to be reformed.
While details as to the precise number of posts to be allocated at both levels in the current school year and the schools to which the posts will be allocated have yet to be finalised I can assure the Deputy that I will be anxious to ensure that the additional resources are properly targeted at those areas where they are most needed.
A comprehensive strategy is currently being finalised which will ensure that the extra investment in this area is being used to the best effect, and that it is underpinned by the right support and training for teachers.
309 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers, resource or remedial teachers and special needs assistants, employed either on a permanent or temporary basis by schools (details supplied); the number of pupils registered in each school; the number of pupils seeking a place for September 2007 at each school; the number of classrooms in place at each school; the locations where new buildings or extensions are planned; the band within which each such school is classified; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41965/06]
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.
310 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position on the acquisition of a suitable site and the provision of a permanent school building for a school (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41966/06]
The Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland act as agents for my Department in the acquisition of sites for schools. I have been advised by the OPW that negotiations to acquire a suitable site for a new school referred to by the Deputy are ongoing. However, it would be inappropriate to reveal the precise details at this point as it may prejudice ongoing negotiations.
On completion of the site acquisition, the project will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2006-2010.
311 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the safeguards in place in locations where both primary education and adult education are located in the same school, and required to be in place regarding the screening of those adults with access to the facilities and the protection of children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41989/06]
Ensuring the protection, health and welfare of children is a key concern for the Government, for parents, for agencies that work with children and for society generally. I can assure the Deputy that the Government is determined to do all that we can to keep our children and vulnerable adults safe. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that all new teachers have been vetted and the process of vetting non-teaching staff is underway.
My Department has had discussions with the relevant interests — school management authorities, unions, the Teaching Council and the Garda Central Vetting Unit — on the procedures and processes which will apply in relation to the vetting of all persons in the education sector. I'm sure the Deputy will appreciate that the number and range of persons who have access to pupils is very wide. With regard to the issue of vetting of all adults with access to children in the education sector, in my view, the determining factor in deciding whether or not such persons should be vetted is the extent to which they have unsupervised access to children or vulnerable adults. As the expansion of the service provided by the Garda Central Vetting Unit is rolled out, I envisage that any individual who may have unsupervised access to children would be included in this category.
The critical issue here is whether the access to children is unsupervised. By unsupervised access I mean where a member of the school staff or a parent or guardian of the child is not present at all times when the person concerned has access to children.
312 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her Department’s policy towards a second level gaelscoil in County Kildare, currently located on a temporary basis at the Curragh, County Kildare, in view of the number and location of gaelscoileanna in the county; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42008/06]
Two all-Irish schools currently serve the needs of County Kildare at post primary level. Coláiste Cois Life in Lucan and Gaelcholáiste Chill Dara in Newbridge. The latter commenced operation in September 2004 having received temporary recognition from my Department for a three year period. In addition, Co Kildare VEC recently applied for the establishment of a separate all Irish post-primary school in Maynooth. This application is currently being examined by officials in the School Planning Section of the Department. A decision will be conveyed to the VEC as soon as it is made.
313 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the preliminary report of Castle Island stage II will be approved by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41812/06]
Stage 2 of the Castleisland Sewerage Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 as a scheme to commence construction in 2007 at a cost of €5.5m. Kerry County Council's Preliminary Report for the scheme is under examination in my Department and a decision will issue shortly.
314 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there has been progress made regarding efforts to phase out staged payments in relation to house building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41847/06]
I announced last June that the Irish Home Builders Association (IHBA) had agreed to pursue the voluntary phasing out of stage payments and to enter into discussions with my Department with a view to bringing this about within a relatively short timeframe. Following on this commitment, my Department has been in consultation with the IHBA and substantial progress has been made regarding arrangements for the ending of the practice at an early date. Some details remain to be concluded and I hope to be in a position to make an announcement on the matter shortly.
315 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will request the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland to investigate the mystery illness of former Russian Premier Yegor Gaidar on his Irish visit, in view of the fact that news of his illness comes after a series of mysterious incidents involving Russian public figures over the past month; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41873/06]
The functions of the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland, as set out in law, include advising "the Government, the Minister (for the Environment Heritage and Local Government), and other Ministers of the Government and the public, on measures for the protection of individuals in the State from radiological hazards".
In the case referred to in this Question, there was no evidence, as far as the RPII was aware, that linked Mr. Gaidar's illness to radiation poisoning. Connolly Memorial Hospital and the Garda, who were investigating the illness, adopted a precautionary approach despite neither having any evidence of radiation being involved. Accordingly, they requested the RPII to undertake monitoring of locations in the hospital and in the NUI, Maynooth in order to provide reassurance to the public. The RPII undertook the necessary monitoring on 1 December 2006. The results of the monitoring did not show any abnormal radiation levels. This information was conveyed to the hospital and the Gardaí by the RPII.
316 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will put in place a moratorium on trials of genetically modified organisms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41899/06]
A company who wishes to carry out a field trial of a genetically modified organism (GMO) in an EU member state must apply for approval to the relevant national competent authority designated under Part B of EU Directive 2001/18/EC. Member states are obliged to transpose the Directive, including the procedure for assessment of, and decisions on, applications for field trials of GMOs.
Directive 2001/18/EC has been transposed into Irish law by the Genetically Modified Organisms (Deliberate Release) Regulations 2003. These regulations assign the function of evaluating applications under Part B of the Directive to the Environmental Protection Agency.
317 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the growing fury in the farming community over measures set down in the nitrates good agricultural practice statutory instrument, S.I. No. 378, which empowers forcible entry to the homes of farm families through court order where entry is otherwise refused, the searching of dwellings and the removal of records, including computers, from the premises and domestic sheds within the curtilage of dwellings in view of the fact that such measures are being viewed as oppressive; his views on this Government’s assault on the natural and constitutional rights of farm families, and the gross abuse of their privacy and enjoyment of the family home; his further views on removing the measures from the statutory instrument and the similar provision as set out in the Water Services Bill 2003 which he is currently piloting through Dáil Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41900/06]
The European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for Protection of Waters) Regulations 2006 contain appropriate and necessary provisions to allow for verification by the relevant authorities of compliance with the Regulations. These largely standard provisions allow for matters such as the entry to premises by an authorised person with the consent of the occupier or, for example, where there is a significant immediate risk to the environment, by court order; the inspection of premises; the taking of samples and other matters considered essential to ensure compliance with, and to support implementation of, the Regulations. Similar provisions are to be found in environmental legislation generally.
318 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he has taken to deal with the concerns regarding the 2007 voting register; if he will report on his contacts with South Dublin County Council in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41943/06]
In law, the preparation of the Register of Electors is a matter for each local registration authority. It is their duty to ensure, as far as possible and with the cooperation of the public, the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the Register. In April 2006, I announced a package of measures to assist local authorities in their work on preparing the 2007/8 Register.
This included: a commitment of up to €6m in new funding from the Exchequer to ensure a comprehensive and well resourced Register campaign; an initial allocation of €171,000 was made available to South Dublin County Council in July; a €1m national media campaign involving TV, radio, the print media and billboards; new IT based arrangements so that the names of people that have died are automatically notified to local authorities for deletion from the Register; all local authority websites to facilitate voters in checking that their names are on the register; and a central website www.checktheregister.ie (which went live on 1 November) giving direct links to each local authority’s eReg enquiry screen.
My Department also worked with a group of local authority managers and senior officials to put in place an enhanced programme for improving the 2007/2008 Register. Detailed procedures for the carrying out of registration fieldwork were finalised and issued to local authorities in early July. The procedures included provision for ensuring that each household was visited and provided with forms and information at least twice, if necessary. In the event that this process did not satisfactorily register the household, written notification would then be given cautioning of the danger of being omitted from the Register. Local authorities were also requested to cross check with other data that they might have (e.g. council housing lists).
I am satisfied that local authorities have carried out the most extensive registration campaign in decades for the Draft Register 2007/8. The campaign has involved some 1,500 fieldworkers visiting some 1.2 million households; many of these were visited more than once so as to ensure a more accurate Register. As a result of the extensive activity at local level, combined with a strong media-based national awareness campaign, public interest in the registration process and its fundamental importance to democratic participation is now at a very high level.
The process is not finished. The Draft Register has been published by each local authority. I received requests from 3 local authorities to provide additional time to complete their work. Rather than confine the extension to the 3 councils, I decided to provide more time to all councils to complete their work on the register up to 2 January. I have also decided to give additional time to members of the public for submitting corrections to their council up until 9 December. These changes were provided for by way of an amendment to the Electoral (Amendment) Bill 2006 which has now been passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas. The Draft Register can be checked up to 9 December in: Council offices, Public libraries, Post offices, Garda stations, and On-line on each local authority website and through the central site www.checktheregister.ie
People aged 18 and over who are not registered, or whose details are not correctly registered, may apply to their city or county council for registration or correction as appropriate; a form for this purpose can be downloaded from www.checktheregister.ie. Valid registration applications will be reflected in the final Register which will be published in February 2007.
In relation to the period after 9 December, it will be open to eligible persons still not included on the Register to secure their registration through inclusion in the Supplementary Register; applications for this purpose may be made up to 15 days before polling day.
319 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on his efforts to deal with public concerns regarding Sellafield; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41944/06]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 22 of 8 November 2006. The position remains unchanged.
320 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the income in mortgage payments by local authority in the AFS for 2004 and 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41990/06]
The mortgage payments made by borrowers in 2005 in respect of each housing authority which issues loans is set out in the table. The data are in respect of repayments of principal only on amounts lent to borrowers. The interest payments are credited to the revenue account and are not identified as a separate item. As the information in respect of principal amounts was included in local authority annual financial statements for the first time in 2005, information in respect of 2004 is not available to my Department.
|
Mortgage Payments in 2005 |
|
|
€ |
|
|
County Councils |
|
|
Carlow |
492,886 |
|
Cavan |
486,049 |
|
Clare |
1,014,555 |
|
Cork |
2,888,177 |
|
Donegal |
1,180,813 |
|
Fingal |
4,114,105 |
|
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown |
397,374 |
|
Galway |
960,089 |
|
Kerry |
755,838 |
|
Kildare |
1,186,233 |
|
Kilkenny |
1,519,442 |
|
Laois |
1,016,324 |
|
Leitrim |
122,870 |
|
Limerick |
908,014 |
|
Longford |
676,930 |
|
Louth |
262,348 |
|
Mayo |
1,341,493 |
|
Meath |
1,018,791 |
|
Monaghan |
489,389 |
|
North Tipperary |
412,820 |
|
Offaly |
699,335 |
|
Roscommon |
393,660 |
|
Sligo |
669,441 |
|
South Dublin |
2,941,063 |
|
South Tipperary |
696,711 |
|
Waterford |
702,112 |
|
Westmeath |
1,120,221 |
|
Wexford |
1,285,661 |
|
Wicklow |
855,198 |
|
City Councils |
|
|
Cork |
3,539,774 |
|
Dublin |
8,700,000 |
|
Galway |
1,011,211 |
|
Limerick |
419,349 |
|
Waterford |
138,465 |
|
Borough Councils/Town Councils |
|
|
Clonmel |
198,224 |
|
Drogheda |
255,885 |
|
Kilkenny |
110,276 |
|
Sligo |
315,717 |
|
Wexford |
180,000 |
|
Athlone |
131,429 |
|
Bray |
73,519 |
|
Dundalk |
149,159 |
321 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount levied by and paid to local authorities in the years 2004 and 2005 in commercial water charges; the amount per unit charged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41991/06]
The amounts charged by each local authority per cubic metre for water services for 2004 and 2005 are set out in the table.
Returns made to my Department by local authorities indicate that the total amount for collection in respect of non-domestic water charges, including arrears, in 2004 was €171.2 million and in 2005 was €214.5 million. The amount collected in 2004 was €106.8 million and in 2005 was €134.3 million.
|
2004 Charge per cubic metre for non-domestic customers |
2005 Charge per cubic metre for non-domestic customers |
|
|
Carlow |
0.77 |
0.81 |
|
Cavan |
0.70 |
0.77 |
|
Clare |
0.82 |
0.89 |
|
Cork City |
2.03 |
2.30 |
|
Cork county |
0.77 |
1.70 |
|
Donegal |
1.05 |
1.18 |
|
Dublin City |
1.26 |
1.33 |
|
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown |
1.41 |
1.64 |
|
Fingal |
1.31 |
1.44 |
|
South Dublin |
1.14 |
1.33 |
|
Galway City |
1.04 |
1.04 |
|
Galway county |
0.73 |
0.80 |
|
Kerry |
1.51 |
1.57 |
|
Kildare |
0.97 |
1.20 |
|
Kilkenny |
0.80 |
0.85 |
|
Laois |
0.97 |
1.04 |
|
Leitrim |
0.61 |
1.46 |
|
Limerick City |
0.93 |
1.54 |
|
Limerick county |
1.12 |
1.05 |
|
Longford |
1.75 |
1.75 |
|
Louth |
0.89 |
0.85 |
|
Mayo |
0.95 |
1.02 |
|
Meath |
1.24 |
1.36 |
|
Monaghan |
0.72 |
0.77 |
|
Offaly |
0.88 |
0.95 |
|
Roscommon |
0.87 |
0.89 |
|
Sligo |
1.01 |
1.01 |
|
North Tipp. |
0.94 |
0.94 |
|
South Tipp. |
1.09 |
1.13 |
|
Waterford City |
0.70 |
0.77 |
|
Waterford county |
0.97 |
0.66 |
|
Westmeath |
0.90 |
0.90 |
|
Wexford |
1.78 |
2.34 |
|
Wicklow |
1.55 |
1.65 |
