Richard Bruton
Question:8 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to bring forward legislation regarding risk equalisation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12015/07]
Written Answers.
The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 7, inclusive, answered orally.
Health Insurance.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:14 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to amend the proposed version of risk equalisation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12017/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 8 and 14 together.
This Government is intent on supporting genuine competition in the best interests of health insurance consumers and its development in the private health insurance market. At the same time, consideration has to be given to the stability of the community rated health insurance system, and the safeguards necessary to protect it, including risk equalisation. The ultimate beneficiary of risk equalisation is the insured population, particularly the elderly and the ill, who would otherwise be vulnerable to the effects of risk selection, and could find themselves priced out of being able to afford their insurance at the point in their lives when it was needed most.
I have appointed a 3 person market review group to examine whether an adequate rate of return is available to insurers in this market and associated issues as quickly as possible. I asked the Group to report back to me by the end of this month, and following consideration of their report, and the Reports of the Competition Authority and the Health Insurance Authority, I expect to bring proposals to Government. Following this process, I may be bringing forward amendments to the Health Insurance Acts or to the Risk Equalisation Scheme.
It is the case that some minor amendments to the present scheme will be submitted to the Oireachtas after the Easter recess for affirmation, having regard to the enactment of the Health Insurance (Amendment) Act 2007.
MRSA Incidence.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:9 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the results of her efforts and associated costs to date in combating MRSA; the number of hospitals or institutions deemed to be entirely free from such infection; if she has identified the institutions with the greatest incidents and the degree to which the issue has been addressed at such locations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12060/07]
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:10 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made with plans to combat infection rates in view of recent MRSA figures; her views on MRSA rates in private and public nursing homes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12064/07]
Seán Crowe
Question:32 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the targets for the reduction of MRSA as recently set out by the chief executive of the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11810/07]
Olivia Mitchell
Question:40 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children her view on the fact that seven out of 10 regional hospitals have patients with MRSA related infections; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12032/07]
Simon Coveney
Question:42 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the results of the Health Service Executive commissioned study which stated that one in 200 patients in hospitals here run the risk of becoming seriously ill as a result of their stay in hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12031/07]
Thomas P. Broughan
Question:57 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether overcrowding in hospitals here must end in order to halt the spread of MRSA through the hospital system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12076/07]
Kathleen Lynch
Question:63 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the figures in respect of the number of cases of MRSA in each of the past three years and to date in 2007; the number of fatalities attributable to MRSA; the steps being taken to reduce the incidence of MRSA; the measures to improve facilities and tackle overcrowding in hospitals that have been made to deal with MRSA; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12008/07]
Gay Mitchell
Question:64 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if her target to reduce the incidence of MRSA by thirty per cent over five years is unambitious and disappointing in view of the fact that Wales managed to reduce MRSA by sixty per cent over four years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12035/07]
Paul McGrath
Question:78 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason she will not implement similar measures proposed by Fine Gael to immediately tackle and reduce the level of hospital acquired infections; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12034/07]
Olivia Mitchell
Question:101 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if MRSA and other hospital acquired infections are under reported here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12033/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 9, 10, 32, 40, 42, 57, 63, 64, 78 and 101 together.
Tackling Healthcare-Associated Infections (HCAIs), including MRSA is a priority for the Government and for the Health Service Executive. Recently-published studies show that in Ireland, the overall rate of HCAIs, which includes MRSA, is lower than our UK counterparts. However, it is generally accepted that MRSA infection rates in the UK and Ireland are higher than our European counterparts. Excessive antibiotic prescribing is a key cause of these higher rates.
The Health Service Executive has recently developed a National Infection Control Action Plan including governance and performance management. The plan has clear targets for all hospitals, clear hygiene and infection control standards, an improved physical environment, initiatives on reducing antibiotic consumption and education of the public and of health professionals, including the current T.V. and media campaign. Achieving these targets is a priority for the HSE so that patients can be assured that in the future their chances of contracting an infection will be reduced to the minimum level possible. To achieve this, there is a corporate commitment throughout the HSE and services generally. Evidence-based guidelines, clear responsibility and accountability and the recognition that the public also has a role to play in preventing HCAIs is vital to achieving improvements.
In addition, the HSE is currently appointing a number of new infection control nurses, surveillance scientists and antibiotic pharmacists. These staff will strengthen specialist support for infection control and facilitate the development of the national surveillance system.
I have asked the HSE to set up a national helpline which patients and their families can call to report incidents of poor infection control in our hospitals. If, for example, patients are unhappy that a member of staff is not disinfecting his or her hands between patients, they or a family member can call the helpline if they do not feel in a position to raise the matter directly with staff in the hospital. This is not about blaming people, it is about helping all of us, patients, visitors and health care staff, to play our part in improving patient care.
I have also instructed the HSE that designated private beds should be used where isolation facilities are required for patients who contract a HCAI or MRSA.
In relation to the issue of overcrowding in hospitals, focused efforts under the Winter Initiative scheme have achieved a reduction in the numbers waiting for admission on trolleys in A&E and a reduction in the time those patients spend waiting. Admission lounges have been put in place in a number of hospitals to ensure that patients are treated with dignity while awaiting admission. A number of new A&E Departments commissioned in 2005/06 have provision for minor injury clinics, including Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown, Cork University Hospital, St. Vincent's Hospital and St. James's Hospital. In 2006, over 1,000 additional extended care places were provided through privately contracted arrangements. In relation to 2007, the HSE has developed proposals to contract a further 450 beds in private nursing homes throughout the country. There are also proposals for an additional 450 beds within the public system. Additional home-care packages have been put in place to facilitate discharge from hospital to the patient's own home. It is important that people do not remain in hospital any longer than is medically necessary.
MRSA is not a notifiable disease but the Health Protection Surveillance Centre of the HSE collects data on MRSA as part of the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System. The European Surveillance system collects data on the first episode of blood stream infection per patient per quarter. The Irish data from the European surveillance system, which is published on a quarterly basis by the HSE shows that there were 445 cases in 2002, 480 cases in 2003, 553 cases in 2004, 592 cases in 2005 and 435 cases up to the end of the third quarter of 2006. There are no figures available to date in relation to 2007.
It is difficult to identify the number of fatalities attributable to MRSA as many people also have significant co-morbidity factors.
In 2006, Ireland participated in the Hospital Infection Society's "Third Prevalence Survey of Health Care Associated Infection" in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The survey, which included 44 Irish acute adult hospitals, including 8 private hospitals, provides data on the prevalence of health care associated infections (including MRSA). The overall prevalence of healthcare-associated infection in the UK, excluding Scotland and Ireland is 7.9%. The figure for England is 8.2%, 6.3% for Wales, 5.5% for Northern Ireland and 4.9% for the Republic of Ireland. 10% of HCAIs were MRSA related in the Republic of Ireland.
A primary element of the fight against healthcare-associated infections involves changing practices and procedures and the way in which many health care staff go about their daily work. Hygiene is a significant issue in our hospitals. It impacts hugely on inspection rates. Hand hygiene is the most important form of hygiene in this regard, but hygiene in general is important.
It is unrealistic to try to isolate the overall cost of combating HCAIs. Indeed, reducing the incidence of these infections will not alone improve patient care but will also generate savings in the cost of service delivery. Minor capital priorities have been identified and are being addressed (€10m this year and €10m next year) by the National Hospitals Office following the two previous national hygiene audits. In the medium- to long-term, capital funding will be committed to increase the number of single rooms and isolation facilities in keeping with best international practice in hospital design.
While accepting that not all healthcare-associated infections are preventable, I am satisfied that significant steps are being taken to reduce the rates of infection and to treat them promptly when they occur. The Department of Health and Children will be monitoring and evaluating the progress being made by the HSE in the management of this issue.
Health Service Executive Remuneration.
Billy Timmins
Question:11 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the remuneration paid to advisers of Professor Brendan Drumm; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12041/07]
Paul Kehoe
Question:37 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the role of advisers to Professor Brendan Drumm; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12042/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 11 and 37 together.
As part of the arrangements for the appointment of Professor Brendan Drumm as Chief Executive Office, the Board of the HSE agreed that support and advisory resources would be provided for the implementation of the health service reform programme.
Section 24 of the Health Act, 2004 empowers the HSE to engage such advisers as it considers necessary for the performance of its functions. Any fees due to an adviser so engaged are payable by the HSE out of funds at its disposal.
It was agreed that one of the roles would be filled immediately by internal re-assignment and a second by secondment. The remaining three roles were of a consultancy nature and were filled through a public procurement process which involved a preliminary notice and shortlisting of candidates. Candidates were required to provide specific details, including fees charged. A contract was agreed for each advisor selected.
I understand that all of these advisers are contracted to provide 135 days each per annum but that different annual rates applied to each individual. Where work is required in excess of the 135 days, a per diem rate applied. This is capped at 20%, i.e. 27 days per annum.
National Cancer Strategy.
Pat Breen
Question:12 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when the Cancer Strategy Implementation Report is due to be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12045/07]
The aim of the National Cancer Control Strategy, which was published in June 2006, is to reduce our cancer incidence, morbidity and mortality rates relative to other Member States of the European Union. This Government is committed to investing significantly in the implementation of the Strategy to build on the improvements we have made in recent years, particularly the improvements in survival in all the major cancers.
The HSE, at my Department's request, is conducting a national needs assessment for cancer control which will set out priorities in the medium term. I have made available an additional €20.5m this year for cancer control. This is an increase of 74% on the comparable 2006 investment and includes €3.5m to support the initial implementation of the HSE National Cancer Control Programme. The Programme will manage, organise and deliver cancer control on a whole population basis. It will have a strong emphasis on prevention and early detection, integrated across primary, hospital, supportive and palliative care. The Service Plan of the HSE for this year sets out the detailed deliverables of the Programme. This includes the establishment of the leadership team to implement the Programme, including the Director of the Programme and key medical leaders at network level.
Health Service Staff.
Paul Kehoe
Question:13 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the aspects of the Hanly Report that have been implemented; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12043/07]
Pat Breen
Question:45 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the aspects of the Hanly Report that she will implement in the next five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12044/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13 and 45 together.
The National Task Force on Medical Staffing, chaired by Mr David Hanly, was set up to:
devise a strategy for reducing the average working hours of non-consultant hospital doctors (NCHDs) so as to achieve the requirements of the European Working Time Directive (EWTD);
address the consequent medical staffing needs of Irish hospitals;
analyse the practical implications of moving to a consultant-provided hospital system;
and consider the requirements for medical education and training arising from any changes to the current model of delivering services.
The Report of the Task Force made a series of important recommendations. These covered issues such as:
the changes needed in NCHD work patterns;
the need for a significant increase in the number of consultants;
the need for a revised contract for medical consultants;
reform of medical education and training;
and the reorganisation of acute hospital services.
Work is proceeding in relation to each of the main recommendations made by the Task Force.
Question No. 14 answered with QuestionNo. 8.
Mental Health Services.
Mary Upton
Question:15 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she is confident that the provision of mental health teams and professionals for children and adolescents here is acceptable; the waiting lists for children and adolescents to be assessed and treated by a mental health professional; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12080/07]
The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled ‘A Vision for Change', was launched in January 2006 and provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over 7 to 10 years. It recommends the provision of two child and adolescent community multidisciplinary mental health teams per 100,000 of the population.
In 2006, a sum of €26.2 million was allocated for the development of mental health services in line with ‘A Vision for Change'. A further sum of €25 million has been allocated in 2007 to continue this development. A significant amount of this year's funding, €7.95 million, is for the development of child and adolescent mental health services. This funding will bring about significant improvements in community, hospital-based and early intervention services. Existing multidisciplinary teams will be enhanced and new child and adolescent mental health teams developed.
In September 2006, there were 45 child and adolescent mental health teams spread throughout the country. Additional funding was provided in 2006 and 2007 for the development of an additional 16 teams and the enhancement of existing teams. The provision of additional teams will reduce waiting times for assessment and treatment.
It is important to note that all emergency referrals are seen without delay. However, the HSE is currently examining non-emergency waiting lists to identify and improve the least developed services.
Hospitals Building Programme.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:16 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if, with regard to the private for profit hospital co-location plan, the competitive dialogue phase of the process with the Health Service Executive and the relevant hospitals has been completed; the core requirements identified in respect of each public hospital site involved in the scheme; if preferred bidders have been invited to tender to build and operate private hospitals; the specifications which have been determined in each case; if invitations to tender have issued; if guidelines for contracts or draft contracts have been drawn up in her Department or by the HSE; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11807/07]
The Health Service Executive is currently engaged in a public procurement process in relation to the co-location of private hospitals on the sites of public hospitals. I understand that the competitive dialogue stage of the process has been completed and that the Invitation to Tender will issue in the next few days. The core requirement of a co-located hospital will be to treat the private patients that are currently receiving treatment in the public hospital. The minimum requirements a co located hospital must provide include:
Ability to admit private patients directly from public hospital Emergency Departments, primary care centres and GPs on a 24/7 basis;
Capacity to treat all private patients currently catered for in the public hospital;
Joint Clinical Governance between the public hospital and the co-located hospital;
Performance Management requirements and documented service level agreements;
Shared Information and Records Management.
Selected bidders must confirm their ability to meet these requirements before progressing to the invitation to tender stage of the procurement process.
There will be full adherence to public procurement law and best practice. There will be a rigorous value for money assessment of all proposals. Any transaction will be on a commercial basis and will fully protect the public interest.
Health Service Staff.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:17 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health and Children the funding and provision of the promised 100 primary care teams; when these will be available; if she will confirm the relationship between pharmacies and these primary care teams; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12070/07]
It has been estimated that up to 95% of people's health and social care needs can be properly met within a primary care setting. The establishment of new integrated multi-disciplinary Primary Care Teams can contribute greatly to enhancing community based health services and reducing reliance on hospital based services.
The HSE received an additional €10m in funding in 2006 to enable the establishment of up to 100 Primary Care Teams. A further €22m is being provided in 2007 to meet the full year costs of the Teams initiated in 2006 and to enable a further 100 Primary Care Teams to be established.
In accordance with the approach set out in the strategy "Primary Care: A New Direction", the composition of Teams will depend on the needs, demographics and geographic location of the population served but will typically consist of GPs, Nurses, Home Helps and Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Social Work professionals. A wider range of professionals including Pharmacists, Dieticians, Psychologists and Chiropodists will be organised into Primary Care Networks, with each such Network supporting a number of Primary Care Teams.
To date the HSE has identified the location for the first group of teams, which includes some 500 GPs who will be members of teams. Some 94 new frontline professionals are in post or about to take up posts. The HSE will be working in the current year to involve substantial additional numbers of GPs and to appoint the additional personnel required, with a view to having some 200 Primary Care Teams in place by the end of 2007.
The Government has committed under the Towards 2016 agreement to the establishment of 300 Primary Care Teams by 2008; 400 by 2009; and 500 by 2011. A review of these targets will be undertaken in 2008.
Health Service Executive Inquiry.
Paul Connaughton
Question:18 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is now appropriate to have an official inquiry into the sequence of events that took place at the Leas Cross Nursing Home; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12028/07]
The Leas Cross report was published by the Health Service Executive on the 10th November 2006. The Health Service Executive has confirmed that it fully accepts the recommendations made by Professor O'Neill and has already addressed many of these that apply to the HSE. My Department and the HSE are working together to implement the report's recommendations.
My colleague, the Minister for Health & Children has had discussions with a group representing relatives of patients at Leas Cross Nursing Home. She has indicated that she will ask a Senior Counsel to carry out an inquiry into matters relating to Leas Cross.
The Department is currently in discussion with the Office of the Attorney General in relation to the drafting of the terms of reference. Officials of the Department will meet with the relatives group shortly to discuss the terms of reference.
The Department is also implementing significant changes to give the required assurance to older people about care standards. A thorough and robust system of inspections is vital. The Health Bill 2006 provides for the first time for an independent, statutory body to set standards and inspect all nursing home places, both public and private. This will also strengthen the registration and de-registration process. New draft standards for all long-term residential care facilities for older people have also been prepared and will be the subject of consultation with key stakeholders.
Medical Cards.
Seán Crowe
Question:19 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Health and Children the discussions she has had with the Health Service Executive regarding the withdrawal of dentists from the medical card dental scheme and the ballot of members of the Irish Dental Association regarding withdrawal of support for the scheme; the action she has taken; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11809/07]
The Dental Treatment Service Scheme (DTSS) provides for a range of dental services for adult medical card holders from participating dentists holding contracts with the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The DTSS Review Group was established in May 2006 to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services provided under the DTSS. Represented on the Review Group are the HSE, the Health Service Employers Agency, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Department of Finance and the Irish Dental Association (IDA). The Group is chaired by Mr Finbar Flood.
Since the Group was established, a legal issue has arisen with regard to the Competition Act 2002 as it relates to the negotiation of professional fees. My Department has sought legal advice from the Attorney General in this regard. In the meantime, the management side has offered to continue discussions on the non-fee element of the review. The IDA has not accepted this offer.
I understand that the IDA are balloting their members on a proposal to withdraw their support from the DTSS. The existing contractual arrangements with private dental practitioners under the DTSS for the provision of dental services to eligible patients remain in place.
Hospital Staff.
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:20 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if consultants who work in the hospitals planned for co-location will be allowed to work in both hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12024/07]
Under the existing Common Contract, Consultants holding Category 1 contracts would not be entitled to practice in colocated private hospitals. However, as part of the ongoing discussions in relation to a new Common Contract, management has tabled proposals which would allow existing Category 1 Consultants and newly appointed Consultants to practice in colocated private hospitals with certain changes in work practices and the management of public and private commitments.
Health Services.
David Stanton
Question:21 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the Governments policy regarding stroke rehabilitation services; the funding being made available for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11965/07]
My Department is currently examining the development of a rehabilitation action plan for people with disabilities, including stroke victims.
In the last two years the Health Service Executive (HSE), and the voluntary sector funded by the HSE, have undertaken specific actions in regard to service provision for stroke victims such as the expansion of neurological services and the planned development of the rehabilitation capacity in the National Rehabilitation Hospital and Merlin Park Hospital. The issue of service planning and provision for stroke victims has been, and continues to be a matter for discussion and examination between my Department and the HSE.
Hospital Services.
Joe Costello
Question:22 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on maternity services here, in particular the recent reports that women attending the maternity unit of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda have to wait until the start of the fifth month of pregnancy before seeing an obstetrician due to increased pressure on services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12086/07]
Arthur Morgan
Question:105 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Health and Children the discussions she has had with the Health Service Executive regarding the critical situation in the maternity unit of Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda where pregnant women have to wait up to the 20th week of their pregnancy before securing an appointment with an obstetrician; the measures she will take to address this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11815/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 105 together.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive (HSE) and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall Vote.
My Department has been informed by the HSE that the number of women in the Louth/Meath region presenting for assessment during pregnancy has increased significantly in recent years. The projected figure for 2007 is over 4,500, an increase of over 100% since the year 2000 when approximately 2,100 women presented at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital. The HSE acknowledges that this has placed additional pressure on services and has resulted in women having to wait longer than planned for assessment by a consultant obstetrician.
My Department is advised that the HSE has recently approved 22 new midwife posts, 2 specialist nurse posts and 3 new consultant anaesthetist posts to relieve the current pressures and that it will be closely monitoring staffing levels at the maternity unit at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda relative to demand.
Capital Projects.
Liam Twomey
Question:23 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Health and Children if all Health Service Executive Corporate Plan Capital Projects were completed in 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12054/07]
The Government's sustained high level of investment in healthcare under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 enabled the completion and commissioning last year of several new facilities in both the Acute Hospitals and the Primary, Community and Continuing Care sectors.
The HSE Capital Plan 2006 contained a wide range of capital projects. A significant proportion of the Executive's capital programme is composed of projects that are multi-annual in nature and were intended to be commenced or progressed through various stages of procurement in 2006.
The provisional outturn for 2006 shows that the total capital spending by the HSE in 2006 amounted to just over €450 million.
The medium to major capital projects completed to construction stage or commissioned during 2006 included:
Acute Hospitals
Midland Regional Hospital at Tullamore
Cork University Hospital — Maternity Unit; Infrastructure Upgrade
Cork University Hospital — A&E & DPU
University College Hospital GalwayPhase 2
St. Vincent's Hospital, Elm Park — Phase I
St. James's Hospital — A & E Extension
St James's Hospital — Phase 1H
Mater / National Paediatric Hospital — Enabling and decanting works
Limerick Maternity Hospital — Extension
Sligo General Hospital — Renal Unit
South Tipperary Hospital Development
Wexford General Hospital — Ward Extension & Refurbishment
Primary, Community and Continuing Care
Ballymun Primary Health Care Facility
St. John's Community Hospital, Wexford — Phase 1
FOLD Accommodation for the Elderly, Claremont
Manorhamilton Regional Offices
Enniscrone Primary Health Care Facility
Carrigart Primary Health Care Centre
Cresslough Primary Health Care Centre
Meath Hospital (Older Persons Unit)
Cork University Hospital — Orthodontic Unit
Hospital of the Assumption, Thurles (Older People)
Thurles Community Hospital
Health Service Executive Inquiry.
Simon Coveney
Question:24 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive has carried out its own internal inquiry into the sequence of events that took place at Leas Cross Nursing Home between 2002 and 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12030/07]
The Leas Cross report was published by the Health Service Executive on the 10th November 2006. The Health Service Executive has confirmed that it fully accepts the recommendations made by Professor O'Neill and has already addressed many of these that apply to the HSE. My Department and the HSE are working together to implement the report's recommendations. An internal inquiry was not undertaken by the HSE.
The HSE examined all complaints and has ongoing communication with the Leas Cross Relatives Action Group through the Office of the HSE Director of Consumer Affairs and there is a good working relationship between the two organisations.
The Director's staff have met with all the complainants in respect of relatives who resided in Leas Cross Nursing Home and is currently addressing a comprehensive list of queries that were raised by the Relatives Action Group at their meeting with the Minister on 18th December 2006.
On 26th January 2007, the newly appointed National Director for the PCCC established the Leas Cross Task Force Group which comprises senior management staff in the HSE Dublin North East and whose remit is to identify, coordinate and finalise all outstanding issues that pertain to Professor O'Neill's report.
Hospital Services.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:25 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the recent case of a baby left in agony in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital for four days before being admitted to Crumlin; her views on whether there is a severe lack of paediatric bed capacity in hospitals here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12072/07]
My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Health Service Executive to arrange to have the specific case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
As the Deputy is aware, the development of a new National Paediatric Hospital is being overseen by a joint HSE/Department of Health and Children Transition Group. The current stage of the process involves the preparation of a high level framework brief for the new hospital. The brief is being developed for the Transition Group by Rawlinson Kelly & Whittlestone Ltd (RKW), an established UK-based health care planning company. RKW will be advising on a range of issues which will help to inform the design of the new hospital. They will be advising, for example, on the preferred model of care, on the core services to be delivered at the new hospital, the appropriate number of beds, and on the additional range of services to be provided outside of the main hospital through the urgent/ambulatory care service, and on the location(s) for this service, taking account of international best practice in the planning of children's hospital services.
Among other key items being addressed by the Group is the determination of co-ordination policies between the new hospital and other hospitals (including those outside of Dublin).
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:26 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children the waiting times for acute hospital care for private patients and for public patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11997/07]
Statutory responsibility for the collation, management and publication of data on waiting times for in-patient and day-case procedures for public patients rests with the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF). My Department has, therefore, asked the Chief Executive of the NTPF to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the information requested in regard to public patients.
Information relating to the waiting times for private patients is not collected by my Department, the Health Services Executive or the National Treatment Purchase Fund.
Arthur Morgan
Question:27 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Health and Children the discussions she has had with the Health Service Executive regarding the future of Our Lady’s Hospital in Navan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11816/07]
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:102 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the discussions she has had with the Health Service Executive regarding the configuration of hospital services in the north east region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11808/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 27 and 102 together.
I am familiar with the approach being adopted by the Health Service Executive in seeking to improve safety and standards across the acute hospital network in the North East Region, having regard to the issues raised in the Teamwork Management Services Report — "Improving Safety and Achieving Better Standards — An Action Plan for Health Services in the North East".
The Teamwork Report included a number of recommendations to improve patient care in the region. It particularly highlighted the need to develop a high quality, responsive emergency and planned service, in line with international standards. It recommended that there be one major regional hospital in the North East, supported by the five existing local hospitals including Our Lady's Hospital, Navan. The new hospital is to provide emergency and trauma services on a 24 hour basis and also provide planned specialist procedures that are complex and require the facilities of a large regional hospital.
The HSE has given me an assurance that, in progressing the implementation of this report, there will be no discontinuation of existing services until suitable alternative arrangements have been put in place.
The hospital reconfiguration process is being overseen by the HSE Steering Group which is leading the project. No decision has been made to date on the location of the new hospital. A sub-committee of the Steering Group has been established to progress the issue of site selection. A tender for consultancy is to be awarded shortly for an independent site location study. The study will take account of various criteria including demographics, access, planning and development considerations and interdependencies.
The first step in the development of a fully integrated regional health service is to ensure that the people of the North East have local access to both routine planned care and immediate life saving emergency care. Over the next few years, in preparation for all acute emergency in-patient care and complex planned care being provided at a regional centre, services at the existing five hospitals will continue to be improved.
Capital Projects.
Dan Neville
Question:28 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of capital projects for 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12053/07]
The total Revised Estimates capital provision for the health service for 2007 is approximately €664 million, of which €546 million relates to the Health Service Executive (HSE), €76.6 million relates to the Office of the Minister for Children (OMC) and €41.4 million is in respect of health agencies directly funded by my Department.
The HSE Capital Plan 2007 was approved in early March. Capital initiatives this year by the OMC and for the directly funded agencies primarily relate to on-going approved projects. Details in relation to new capital initiatives under these programmes are expected to be finalised shortly.
Health Insurance.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:29 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she is satisfied the payment by insurers for the treatment of private patients in public hospitals is being fully billed for; if there is a shortfall; the hospitals in which it is occurring; the amount of money not claimed by hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12005/07]
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.
Certification Requirements.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:30 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children if school children are required to have a sick certificate if they are off school; if this requirement has meant more work for general practitioners; if this is quantifiable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11996/07]
Policy in relation to school attendance, including consideration of requirements when a child is absent due to illness, is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Education and Science.
General Practitioners are private medical practitioners in their own right. The State contracts with GPs for the provision of services under a number of Schemes, the most significant of which is the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme. Neither the Health Service Executive nor my Department collects information which would enable the impact of schools' certification requirements on doctors' workload to be assessed.
Hospitals Building Programme.
Seán Ryan
Question:31 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she plans on continuing with the decision to locate the National Children’s Hospital on the Mater site, despite strong and various objections; the stage the development is at; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12074/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:86 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to proposals to close down all of the existing children’s hospitals in Dublin in favour of the development of proposed facilities at the Mater Hospital site; if her attention has further been drawn to the strong opposition to such proposal, the serious detrimental impact on the availability and accessibility of hospital facilities for children in such circumstances and the limited capacity of the Mater hospital site in comparison with the extensive site accommodation already available to the existing National Children’s Hospital; if she has consulted with those who disagree with the proposed relocation of the NCH to the restricted Mater Hospital site; if she has examined and compared on a cost benefit basis, including easy access the merit of the alternative site on offer; her views on whether the larger, more accessible site with most potential is already available at the NCH; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12061/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 86 together.
I have outlined to the House on a number of occasions the background to the selection of the site for the new National Paediatric Hospital. The development of the National Paediatric Hospital is being overseen by a joint HSE/Department of Health and Children Transition Group.
The current stage of the process involves the preparation of a high level framework brief for the new hospital. The brief is being developed for the Transition Group by Rawlinson Kelly & Whittlestone Ltd (RKW), an established UK-based health care planning company. RKW will be advising on a range of issues which will help to inform the design of the new hospital. They will be advising, for example, on the preferred model of care, on the core services to be delivered at the new hospital, and on the additional range of services to be provided outside of the main hospital through the urgent/ambulatory care service, and on the location(s) for this service, taking account of international best practice in the planning of children's hospital services.
RKW is consulting widely in the course of its work, and in this context the input of all stakeholders will be of benefit in ensuring the delivery of our shared objective of providing a world-class hospital for the children of this country.
Question No. 32 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
Hospital Services.
Jerry Cowley
Question:33 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason cancer patients are unable to get basic surgical treatment at University College Hospital Galway due to a lack of theatre spaces; the steps she will take to ensure that the people waiting for months for essential cancer treatment at UCHG can get it by providing more theatre spaces at this hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11821/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to respond directly to the Deputy in relation to the matter raised.
Health Insurance.
Bernard Allen
Question:34 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the recent statements by a person (details supplied) that the Irish private health insurance market does not need risk equalisation to ensure community rating; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12018/07]
Community Rating has been an important factor in keeping the cost of health insurance at an affordable level over people's lifetimes and in particular their old age. The ultimate beneficiary of risk equalisation is the insured population, particularly the elderly and the ill, who would otherwise be vulnerable to the effect of risk selection, and would find the cost of health insurance unaffordable when it was needed the most.
Risk Equalisation helps ensure that community rating is sustainable into the future and the recent High Court decision, arising from a challenge to the Government's right to regulate the private health insurance market, was a strong endorsement of the regulatory framework, including the risk equalisation scheme. A community rated market cannot exist without a supporting mechanism like risk equalisation.
A market without the balancing measure of risk equalisation to address the effect of mandatory community rating exposes insurers with higher risk members to spiralling claims and ultimately threatens their viability while opening the possibility of super-normal profits being made by other insurers, at the expense of consumers and the insured community as a whole.
The Government is also committed to ensuring that competition in the market works to the benefit of all health insurance subscribers. To that end, I will consider the recommendations from the Reports of both the Competition and Health Insurance Authorities which I have already received, and from the Barrington Group when it reports back to me at the end of this week.
Health Service Contracts.
Denis Naughten
Question:35 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Health Service Executive does not have a contract with general practitioner trainers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12036/07]
Denis Naughten
Question:103 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that general practitioner trainers intend to resign their position on 1 July 2007 and from that date they will no longer train GPs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12037/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 103 together.
General Practitioner vocational training is conducted under the auspices of the Irish College of General Practitioners (ICGP) through vocational training programmes funded by the Health Service Executive (HSE). There are 11 such programmes and these are accredited by the ICGP. General Practitioner Trainers are responsible for providing to GP trainees, within their practices, post-graduate vocational training and practical experience in the clinical, organisational and other dimensions of general practice. In the majority of training schemes the duration of such training is three years.
As the Deputy's question relates to a matter which falls within the remit of the Health Service Executive, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Hospitals Building Programme.
Ciarán Cuffe
Question:36 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Health and Children when contracts for private hospitals on public lands will be signed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11998/07]
John Gormley
Question:153 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children when contracts for private hospitals on public lands will be signed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12270/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 36 and 153 together.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) is at an advanced stage in a public procurement process in relation to the co-location of private hospitals on the sites of public hospitals.
I understand that the HSE proposes to issue Invitations To Tender to the shortlisted bidders in the next few days and that tenders are to be returned by the end of April. The HSE will then evaluate the tenders and the successful bidders should be selected in May. Following that a "stand still" period of 2 weeks is required by procurement law before Project Agreements can be signed with the successful bidders.
Question No. 37 answered with QuestionNo. 11.
Accident and Emergency Services.
Ivor Callely
Question:38 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health and Children her Department’s policy with regard to the general public access to accident and emergency departments; the average waiting period in accident and emergency in a Dublin hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11818/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services, including responsibility for the collection of data on hospital activity, is a matter for the Health Service Executive. My Department has, therefore, requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the question raised with regard to the average waiting period in a Dublin hospital Accident and Emergency Department.
Improving the delivery of Accident and Emergency services is the Government's top priority in health. Our objectives are to reduce the numbers waiting for admission, the time spent waiting for admission, and the turnaround time for those who can be treated in A & E and do not require admission.
The Health Service Executive continues to report significant improvements in the number of patients in A & E departments who are awaiting admission to an acute bed as compared with the same period last year. The average number of patients awaiting admission during March is 59% lower than the equivalent period twelve months ago.
Last year the HSE introduced a target of 24 hours within which all patients should be admitted, following the decision to admit. This target is being achieved by the vast majority of hospitals. The HSE is working closely with the small number of hospitals who are continuing to experience difficulties to assist them in reaching this target. The HSE has announced that it will be introducing a revised target of 12 hours within which a patient should be admitted, following the decision to admit. The HSE is also to introduce a monitoring system to record the total time patients spend in A & E departments, from the time they arrive to the time they are either discharged or admitted.
Hospital Staff.
Fergus O'Dowd
Question:39 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if her co-location plan could have adverse consequences for public patients in public hospitals due to changing work practices for consultants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12025/07]
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:54 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children if her co-location plan could have adverse consequences for private patients in private hospitals due to the fact that doctors there will not be in recognised training schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12027/07]
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:97 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children if her co-location plan could have adverse consequences for private patients in private hospitals due to the complexity of work that is planned for these private hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12026/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 39, 54 and 97 together.
I do not believe that the co-location of private hospitals on public hospital sites will have adverse consequences for public or private patients, whether for reasons cited by the Deputies or otherwise. It is a core requirement of the ongoing public procurement exercise that the private bidders can demonstrate to the Health Service Executive that the co-located hospital will have the staff and facilities to treat private patients that are currently receiving treatment in the public hospital. Medical and surgical services at the co-located hospital will have to be provided by appropriately qualified staff.
The co-located hospitals will be required to have a clinical governance strategy including clinical audit and to develop proposals to provide access to training within the private facility. It is a critical factor of the co-location initiative and of the new consultants contract that private work will be managed so as not to be to the detriment of public patients and public services.
Question No. 40 answered with Question No. 9.
Industrial Disputes.
Seán Ryan
Question:41 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the INO and PNA industrial action; her plans to address their member’s substantial grievances in view of the disruption this will cause to the health service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12073/07]
The issues of nurses' pay and working hours have been fully processed through the State's industrial relations structures and procedures — the Labour Relations Commission and the Labour Court. While health service management have accepted the Labour Court Recommendation, the Irish Nurses Organisation and Psychiatric Nurses Association state that they have neither accepted nor rejected this Recommendation and instead served notice of industrial action.
The INO and PNA had been due to commence industrial action from 12 March 2007. This action would have involved a nationwide work to rule and short work stoppages. Following contacts between Government representatives and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) it was agreed to put in place an intensive time bound process of engagement under the aegis of the National Implementation Body (NIB), to address the issues underpinning the dispute, taking account of the relevant Labour Court recommendations. The INO and PNA agreed to postpone their industrial action until 2 April.
The talks commenced on 12 March and are due to conclude tomorrow 30 March. In addition to the INO and PNA, SIPTU who are not in dispute, are represented at the talks. The talks are concentrating on two main issues — the claim for a reduction in the working week from 39 to 35 hours and the perceived pay anomaly in the Intellectual Disability sector. The NIB have requested both sides to refrain from public comment on the discussions while the process is ongoing and this has been agreed by the parties. At the end of this week, a detailed position statement is due to be prepared by the National Implementation Body and presented to both sides for their consideration.
I believe that this process is the best prospect of finding a satisfactory solution and I would like to state that officials from my Department and the HSE are fully and positively engaged in the process.
Question No. 42 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
Hospital Charges.
Breeda Moynihan-Cronin
Question:43 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the 2005 introduction of charges for long-term residents on medical cards in mental health institutions; if she has satisfied herself that residents and their families are informed and supported by the Health Service Executive regarding changes; if her attention has been drawn to the pressure applied to medical card holders to pay bills; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12011/07]
The Health (Charges for In-Patient Services) Regulations 2005 provide the statutory basis for the imposition of charges for persons in receipt of inpatient services whether or not such persons have full (medical card) or limited eligibility. These regulations provide for two different classes of person on whom charges can be levied and the maximum charge which can be imposed in respect of each class. With effect from 14 July 2005, charges may be levied on persons who are in receipt of in-patient services in premises where nursing care is provided on a 24 hours basis, and in premises where nursing care is not provided on a 24 hour basis. The Regulations provide for a different level of charge in respect of each class, as set out below.
Class 1 refers to people in receipt of in-patient services on premises where nursing care is provided on a 24 hour basis on those premises. In this case, a weekly charge of €120 can be levied or the total weekly income of that person less €35, whichever is the lesser. Class 2 refers to people in receipt of in-patient services on premises where nursing care is not provided on a 24 hour basis on those premises. In this situation, a weekly charge of €90 can be levied, the total weekly income of that person less €55 or 60% of the weekly income of that person, whichever is the lesser.
In July 2005, the Health Service Executive (HSE) informed all patients (or their representatives) currently in their care that patients could be liable to pay a weekly charge in line with the 2005 regulations. Patients were advised that the amount of the weekly charge was subject to a financial assessment. Patients admitted after July 2005 are informed that they may be liable for a charge under the 2005 regulations and that a financial assessment will be completed.
The purpose of the financial assessment is to ascertain the weekly income and outgoings of the patient to ensure that payment of the charge does not cause undue financial hardship to the patient. Following the completion of the financial assessment, the HSE informs the patient and/or his/her representative of the charge that will be raised in respect of in-patient services. This letter includes information on how the charge is calculated.
The patient or his/her representative is also advised that they should contact the local administrator if they believe that payment of the charge would cause them undue hardship. Where appropriate, next of kin or patient representatives are also informed of the process in place for raising the charge and given the opportunity to advise on any expenses the patient incurs on a weekly basis. The patient, or their representative may also appeal the charge applied if they are unhappy with the decision.
The patient or his/her representative are advised that they have a choice regarding how the charge is collected. The HSE can invoice the patient or their representative on a monthly basis or the patient may choose to ask the HSE to become an agent on their Department of Social and Family Affairs payment book. If the patient chooses the latter, the HSE arranges to deduct the charge from the DSFA weekly payment. The remainder of the money from the DSFA weekly payment is either given to the patient or lodged to the patient's individual Patients Private Property Account, whichever is more appropriate.
Nursing Home Charges.
Jack Wall
Question:44 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding the legal position to ensure the end of the practice of charging of top-up chiropody fees to elderly patients in public nursing homes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12062/07]
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.
Question No. 45 answered with QuestionNo. 13.
Accident and Emergency Services.
Enda Kenny
Question:46 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children when is the Accident and Emergency Taskforce Report due to be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12046/07]
The Accident and Emergency Taskforce Report was commissioned by the Health Service Executive. My Department has therefore requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange for a reply to be issued directly to the Deputy in relation to the matter raised.
Health Promotion.
Ivor Callely
Question:47 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health and Children her Department’s policy on people’s fitness and exercise; the encouragement in place to encourage people to participate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11817/07]
My Department recognises the importance of physical activity in the prevention of illness such as cardiovascular disease and stroke. It is also recognised that lack of physical activity is contributing to increased levels of obesity. The Report of the National Taskforce on Obesity — Obesity the Policy Challenges — was published in 2005 and contained 93 recommendations aimed at tackling overweight and obesity. The Health Service Executive has established a Working Group to implement the health sector recommendations of the Taskforce on Obesity for which the HSE has the lead responsibility and for which €3 million has been allocated. In 2006 eight additional posts focused on obesity were secured and a number of new initiatives commenced and are continuing.
The HSE is working with the Community Games Association to integrate health promotion as a priority in their strategic plan. This plan addresses nutrition and physical activity as well as other key health promotion topics. The partnership with the Education Sector is progressing. The HSE has also developed a strategic alliance with the Irish Sports Council, and have part-funded the Local Sports Partnerships to promote physical activity.
The Taskforce recognises that a multi-sectoral approach is necessary, involving other state agencies and Departments and real engagement of the public and private sectors to implement all of the report's recommendations. My Department is currently finalising proposals for the development of a mechanism which will facilitate inter-sectoral working on the prevention of chronic diseases, including obesity. Promotion of healthy lifestyles, including physical activity, will be a key part of this approach.
Vaccination Programme.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:48 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the recent situation where Health Service Executive supplies of the BCG vaccine ran out; if she has sought a report on same from the HSE; the measures she has initiated to ensure that there is no repetition; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11811/07]
The National Immunisation Office, which is part of the Population Health Directorate of the Health Service Executive (HSE) is responsible for overseeing the day to day implementation of the Immunisation Programme, including vaccine procurement and management of the National Cold Chain Delivery Service. Vaccines are procured from manufacturers based on national requirements and are delivered at specified regular intervals to the Cold Chain distributors.
The "Cold Chain" is the system of correct storage, transport and maintenance of vaccines to ensure that they are protected from inappropriate temperatures and light from the time of manufacture to the time of administration. The National Cold Chain Delivery Service has been in operation since 2005. This service is provided under contract by a pharmaceutical distribution company. All vaccines are stored and delivered under temperature controlled conditions to General Practitioners surgeries, HSE health centres and hospitals, ensuring compliance with Irish Medicines Board (IMB) licensing requirements.
This delivery system is continuously monitored to ensure that the Cold Chain is maintained and that vaccines are distributed efficiently and is overseen by the National Immunisation Office. Since the introduction of the National Cold Chain Delivery Service, there has been a significant reduction in vaccine wastage and there is now a comprehensive vaccine tracking system from the manufacturer to GP surgery, health centre or hospital.
I have been informed by the HSE that in the past few weeks there was a temporary shortage of BCG vaccine in Ireland. BCG vaccination is carried out on newborn babies in maternity hospitals and HSE health centres by HSE community health doctors. There is only one licensed supplier of BCG for Ireland — Statens Serum Institute (SSI) based in Denmark. The HSE has a contract with SSI to provide annual requirements for BCG. These are sent under temperature controlled conditions on a planned basis. The shortage was caused when two shipments in 2006 had problems. One shipment arrived into the country outside the temperature requirements and could not be used. Any vaccine that has not been stored at a temperature as per licensing conditions is no longer a licensed product. A second vaccine order had a manufacturing problem and so was not sent from Denmark.
An alternative batch of BCG arrived into Ireland in December but this did not meet IMB requirements and therefore could not be distributed. From the middle of December there were no supplies centrally for distribution, however, there were supplies still available locally in a number of areas up to the beginning of February. All HSE staff were informed about the situation on a regular basis to ensure clinics were not scheduled when there was no vaccine available.
BCG vaccine was delivered to the Cold Chain Distributors and became available for delivery on 16 February. The Cold Chain Distributors immediately ensured that back orders were filled. Further BCG deliveries are scheduled for March and May of this year. The HSE is in contact with the company to ensure continuation of quality supply.
Health Insurance.
John Perry
Question:49 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether private health insurance premiums could double in the next three years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12022/07]
I have no reason to believe that the cost of premiums will double over the next three years.
Medical Cards.
Emmet Stagg
Question:50 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the general practitioner only cards do not cover a patient wishing to obtain the services of Irish Family Planning Association; if it is her intention to include this vital service to the GP only medical cards to persons who may not afford it otherwise; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12082/07]
I have been informed by the Health Service Executive that the Irish Family Planning Association's Dublin clinics are funded by the Executive to provide family planning services free of charge to medical card holders and to GP visit card holders who attend at these clinics. Family planning services are also available for medical card holders and GP visit card holders from the majority of GMS contract holding general practitioners. If a GP does not provide family planning services, he/she is obliged to refer a patient to a GP who will provide this service.
Care of the Elderly.
Joan Burton
Question:51 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s calls to recognise dementia as a national health priority, to invest €35 million per year over the next three years and to commit to accelerated implementation of the dementia manifesto 2007 to 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12007/07]
The development of Services for Older People is a priority for the Government. This is reflected in the funding committed to Services for Older People in Budgets 2006 and 2007. Last year, the Government funded the largest ever expansion in Services for Older People with a full year cost of €150 million. This year a full year package of €255 million has been allocated for Services for Older People. This gives a total of over €400 million added to services for older people over two years.
Government policy in relation to older people is to support people to live in dignity and independence in their own homes and communities for as long as possible and, where this is not possible, to support access to quality long-term residential care. This policy approach is renewed and developed in the latest partnership agreement, Towards 2016. The Action Plan for Dementia, published in 1999, describes a model of best practice for the provision and planning of dementia care in Ireland.
There is a complementary link between Government policy in the area of the care of older people and care for people with dementia. Both policies stress the need to provide support in dignity and independence, through the provision of appropriate services to the people concerned and their carers. The Government is fully committed to providing such support and service improvement, including the expansion of community and residential care services for people with dementia. This commitment is reflected in the additional funding of approximately €109 million in Budget 2006 and €82 million in Budget 2007 which was allocated to community supports for older people, including those with dementia. These supports include Home Care Packages, the Home Help Scheme and Respite Care.
The additional funding provided for Home Care Packages and the Home Help Scheme will further enhance the supports available to families caring for people with dementia at home. In 2006 a total of 2,000 extra Home Care Packages were provided at a full year cost of €55 million (prior to this date only 1,100 Packages had been in operation on a pilot basis). A similar increase in the number of Packages will be provided in 2007, benefiting some 4,000 people. An additional €21 million has been provided in 2007 to fund the cost of some 780,000 additional Home Help hours in 2007. This brings the total funding allocated to Home Helps to approximately €171 million per annum.
Among the areas where funding has been provided are day care and respite care which are an integral part of delivering a comprehensive community service for older people. Day care and respite care offer respite for family members and/or carers and provide social stimulation in a safe environment for older people with mild forms of dementia. The provision of an additional €9 million in 2006 funded a further 1,325 additional places per week in these centres, together with additional programmes for specific needs such as activity therapy. It also means that many day care centres can increase the number of days per week they open. Additional funding of €3.5 million provided in Budget 2007 will cater for a further 1,100 day places per week in day care centres.
The HSE has responsibility for the planning and management of capital projects in the health sector, including the development of services for people suffering from Dementia. The HSE's capital plan for 2007 has recently been approved and includes an allocation of €107 million for older people specific projects.
Hospitals Building Programme.
Liam Twomey
Question:52 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Health and Children if the corporate plan capital projects for 2006 were completed on time and in budget with a list of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12055/07]
The Government's sustained high level of investment in health care has enabled the completion and commissioning of numerous new facilities in both the acute and non-acute sectors. The HSE has responsibility for the planning and management of capital projects in the health sector, including the projects referred to in the Deputy's question. 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.
Health Insurance.
Richard Bruton
Question:53 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the further negotiations that have taken place between her Department and the Quinn Group; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12014/07]
Following enactment of the Health Insurance (Amendment) Act 2007, officials from my Department had discussions with the Quinn Group on Monday, 5 March. Given the commercial nature of the discussions, it would be inappropriate to comment further.
Question No. 54 answered with QuestionNo. 39.
Assisted Human Reproduction.
Pat Rabbitte
Question:55 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the prohibitive costs of IVF treatment, that is in the region of €4,000, and that this cost is beyond the reach of the majority of people; her plans to ensure that this treatment is affordable to those who need it; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12069/07]
The Commission on Assisted Human Reproduction (CAHR) was established in March 2000. Its terms of reference were to prepare a report on the possible approaches to the regulation of all aspects of assisted human reproduction and the social, ethical and legal factors to be taken into account in determining public policy in this area. The CAHR was composed largely of persons with expert knowledge spanning medical, scientific, social and legal domains; this expertise was a prerequisite to a precise examination of the issues concerned.
The Commission published its report in May 2005. This was the first step in determining a policy response to Assisted Human Reproduction (AHR) and it made 40 recommendations on AHR services in Ireland. The key recommendation of the Commission is that a regulatory body should be established by an Act of the Oireachtas to regulate AHR services in Ireland. The Commission proposed that this body be accountable to the Minister for Health and Children and that it would have regulatory, advisory and executive powers in relation to permitted AHR services.
The Government decided to refer the report to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children so that the Committee could consider and report in due course on its views of the recommendations of the Commission. The Committee was considered an appropriate forum in which to subject the report to structured democratic and political analysis and scrutiny.
In the meantime, cognisant of the amount of work required, I instructed my Department to begin work on the development of an appropriate regulatory framework. As part of the analysis of the complex issues involved in AHR, the report of the Joint Oireachtas Committee, when completed, along with any judgment of the Supreme Court in the R v R (frozen embryos) case, will be taken into account.
I am also conscious of the financial burden that AHR treatment can place on couples. I have therefore asked my Department to consider policy in this regard also. Finally, persons undergoing AHR treatment services are eligible for tax relief on medical expenses incurred; the Drugs Payment Scheme also covers a number of drugs used as part of such treatment.
Nursing Home Charges.
Liz McManus
Question:56 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the nursing home repayment scheme; if she is satisfied that information provided to recipients and their families is adequate; the amount repaid to date; the estimated total of repayments; the estimated date of final repayments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12002/07]
The health repayment scheme was launched in August 2006 and is administered by the Health Service Executive (HSE) in conjunction with the appointed Scheme Administrator KPMG/McCann Fitzgerald.
In relation to repayments to applicants, the HSE has informed the Department that over 26,400 application forms have been submitted to the scheme administrator and these applications are being processed at present. The timeframe for repayment is predicated primarily on whether the applicant is alive or whether the application is being made by the estate of a deceased person. Living people who were wrongly charged are being prioritised for payment under the scheme.
The HSE has estimated that there are now in the region of 14,000 people within this category. A dedicated website, www.repay.ie, an information phone line 1890 886 886 and an e-mail facility queries@repay.ie have been established by the scheme administrator to assist the public in accessing claim forms and general information on the scheme. The information line operates between the hours of 9.00 am and 6.00 p.m. from Monday to Friday. Queries in relation to individual applications should be referred to the scheme administrator. The HSE has indicated that the total cost of the repayment scheme will be approximately €1 billion. The Department of Finance has earmarked funding of €360 million for 2007. The cost of total repayments made under the scheme will be dependent on the number of applications received.
Offers of repayment commenced in late 2006 and over 1,100 payments have already issued with further payments continuing on an ongoing basis. The HSE has indicated that approximately €24 million has been repaid to date. It is expected that the bulk of payments to estates will commence later in the year. Provision has been made for applications to be received up to 1 January 2008. It is anticipated that the majority of repayments will be made by mid-2008.
It should be noted that under Data Protection legislation information relating to individual claims cannot be provided to third parties and in this regard, all enquiries in relation to individual claims should be made by the applicant concerned.
Question No. 57 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
Eating Disorders.
Ruairí Quinn
Question:58 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the waiting list for St. Columcille’s Hospital; the steps she will take to aid St. Columcille’s Hospital; the measures she will take to combat obesity here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12083/07]
There are currently 724 people on the waiting list for St Columcille's Hospital. A total of €600,000 revenue funding and €70,000 capital funding was provided to St Columcille's Hospital in 2006. This funding allowed the hospital develop modular accommodation to house clinical rooms for obesity services.
This funding also facilitated the recruitment of the following additional staff:
1 × Consultant Endocrinologist
1 × Medical Registrar
1 × Senior Dietician
1 × Psychologist (1/2 time)
1 × Senior Physiotherapist (1/2 time)
1 × Clinical Nurse Specialist
1 × Clerical Officer Grade 1V
All staff with the exception of the Clerical Officer Grade 1V are in place. This position should be filled by end April 2007.
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. The hospital has made a submission to the HSE for funding of €3.5 million to construct a permanent building to house their expanding diabetes and obesity service needs.
The Report of the National Taskforce on Obesity — Obesity the Policy Challenges — was published in 2005 and contained 93 recommendations aimed at tackling overweight and obesity. The HSE has established a Working Group to implement the health sector recommendations of the Task Force on Obesity for which the HSE has the lead responsibility and for which €3 million has been allocated.
The Taskforce recognises that a multi-sectoral approach is necessary, involving other state agencies and Departments and real engagement of the public and private sectors to implement all of the report's recommendations. My Department is currently finalising proposals for the development of a mechanism which will facilitate inter-sectoral working on the prevention of chronic diseases including obesity.
In relation to the surveillance and monitoring of obesity, funding has been provided by the HSE to UCD, to record height and weight in children at school entry point as part of the Lifeways cohort. The development of a national database to monitor prevalence trends of growth, overweight and obesity was also funded. The HSE is working with the Irish Universities Nutritional Alliance, to research food and nutrition in children and its determinants. Funding was also allocated to the Irish Heart Foundation to progress the Action for Life physical activity programme and to undertake a project on marketing of foods to children.
National Guidelines for community based practitioners on prevention and management of childhood overweight and obesity were published and launched in December. Training for primary and community based practitioners on patient centred skills in addressing overweight and obesity was also funded. New growth charts for children were developed.
The Health Service Executive is working with the Community Games Association to integrate Health Promotion as a priority in their strategic plan. This plan addresses nutrition and physical activity as well as other key health promotion topics. The partnership with the Education Sector is progressing. The HSE has also developed a strategic alliance with the Irish Sports Council, and have part-funded the Local Sports Partnerships to promote physical activity.
I am pleased that my Department and the HSE are moving forward with initiatives to prevent obesity and, where necessary, to treat the range of associated illnesses.
Hospital Services.
Dan Boyle
Question:59 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will re-consider the proposed move of St. Luke’s or if she will ensure that the site remains in possession of the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11992/07]
It is my objective, and that of the Health Service Executive (HSE) and St. Luke's Hospital to see the earliest delivery of the Government's Plan for Radiation Oncology. I am determined that the HSE will deliver on this Plan in 2011 as originally scheduled. The HSE and my Department are considering options to speed up the pace of delivery. This is a challenging timetable and I will provide the HSE with the necessary support to deliver on it.
As regards the future use of the site and facilities at St. Luke's Hospital, my objective is to ensure that these resources are utilised in the best interest of the health services. I will discuss this issue in due course with the HSE and the Hospital Board.
Water Fluoridation.
Eamon Ryan
Question:60 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on having a national study on total fluoride intake in the population; if she will do this under section 6 of the fluoridation Act; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11995/07]
The Irish Expert Body on Fluorides and Health (Expert Body) was established in 2004 by the then Minister for Health and Children. The Expert Body held its inaugural meeting in April 2004 and its terms of reference are: to oversee the implementation of the recommendations of the forum on fluoridation; to advise the Minister and evaluate ongoing research, including emerging issues, on all aspects of fluoride and its delivery methods as an established health technology and as required; and report to the Minister on matters of concern on request or on its own initiative.
I have asked my officials to refer this matter to the Expert Body for its consideration. The Body is scheduled to meet in plenary session on 25 April next. The Expert Body will advise me on the outcome of its consideration.
Eating Disorders.
Eamon Gilmore
Question:61 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of funding allocated to services to combat eating disorders in 2006; the amount of funding approved for 2007; the way this money is being spent; the time frame of the money to be spent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12085/07]
The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled "A Vision for Change", was launched in January 2006. It provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over a 7 to 10 year implementation timeframe. "A Vision for Change" acknowledges gaps in the current provision of services for people with eating disorders and makes several recommendations for the further improvement of these services.
Recommendations include support for health promotion initiatives that encourage greater community and family awareness of eating disorders, the further development of primary and community care services and the provision of a full multidisciplinary team in a National Centre for Eating Disorders for complex cases that cannot be managed by local child and adolescent community mental health teams. Responsibility for the implementation of these recommendations rests with the HSE.
In 2006, €26.2 million was allocated for the development of mental health services in line with "A Vision for Change". An additional €25 million has been provided to the HSE in 2007, €750,000 of which is for developing services for eating disorders.
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. The Executive, therefore, 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.
Vaccination Programme.
Dan Neville
Question:62 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children when the pneumococcal vaccine will be introduced into the childhood immunisation programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12052/07]
Ireland's recommended immunisation programme is based on the guidelines of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland. These guidelines are prepared with the assistance of an active committee from associated disciplines in paediatrics, infectious diseases, general practice and public health.
I understand that the inclusion of the pneumococcal vaccine in the Primary Childhood Immunisation Programme is being considered by the National Immunisation Advisory Committee as part of its review of the immunisation guidelines. My Department has been advised that a recommendation will be made shortly. My Department and the Health Service Executive will be guided by the expert advice from NIAC in this regard.
Questions Nos. 63 and 64 answered with Question No. 9.
Health Services.
Eamon Ryan
Question:65 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Health and Children if her Department has a strategy in relation to treatment of allergies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11994/07]
Allergy describes a range of immune reactions to substances in the environment which though normally harmless, may cause hypersensitivity in certain individuals. There are a variety of allergic reactions which range from the more common minor skin conditions to severe reactions including anaphylaxis. The management of asthma includes the identification and avoidance of substances that trigger allergy as well as the provision of allergy tests and treatment to identify and reduce the impact of this condition.
Allergy services are delivered in the primary care setting as well as public hospitals which provide further services for the identification and management of allergies. My Department has requested that the Health Service Executive provide the deputy directly with information on the provision of allergy services including treatment.
Health Service Staff.
Martin Ferris
Question:66 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of advanced paramedics trained by the Health Service Executive in 2006; the target number for 2006; the target number for 2007; if additional resources are being made available to ensure that the target for 2007 is reached; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11813/07]
Over 120,000 people work full-time or part-time in our public health services. In recent years, the Government's ongoing high level of investment in health has achieved and maintained significant increases in the number of doctors, nurses and other health care professionals employed in the public health services. The Government has also invested heavily in the education and training of such personnel in order to secure a good supply of graduates to provide for the health care needs of the population into the future.
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of the Actual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. The Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.
Child Care Services.
David Stanton
Question:67 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the most up to date figures on the number of inquiries and the number of voluntary notifications respectively received by the child care committees from childminders who wish to avail of the income tax exemption; the breakdown of same per child care committee area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11966/07]
The number of voluntary notifications made by Childminders to the City and County Child Care Committees since the introduction of the Child Care Services Relief in December 2005 has been monitored by my Office on a regular basis. The most recent information available as of the end of November 2006 is summarised in the following table. These figures are updated on a quarterly basis and I anticipate that the latest figures will be updated by mid April 2007.
As the first tax year for which the exemption applies is 2006, Childminders have until 31 October 2007 to complete the necessary requirements to avail of the exemption. Until that time it is not possible to fully establish the take-up of this initiative. Furthermore, in Budget 2007 it was announced that the tax exemption threshold was to increase from €10,000 to €15,000. For that reason it is also expected to take some time to assess the effect of the increase in the threshold for the exemption, which will apply in respect of the 2007 tax year.
|
Child Care Committee |
End of Nov. 2006 |
|
Carlow |
1 |
|
Cavan |
14 |
|
Clare* |
7 |
|
Cork City |
0 |
|
Cork County |
1 |
|
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown |
0 |
|
Donegal |
0 |
|
Dublin City |
1 |
|
Fingal |
38 |
|
Galway |
46 |
|
Kerry |
70 |
|
Kildare* |
19 |
|
Kilkenny |
2 |
|
Laois* |
5 |
|
Leitrim |
24 |
|
Limerick City* |
0 |
|
Limerick County* |
5 |
|
Longford* |
2 |
|
Louth |
2 |
|
Mayo |
55 |
|
Meath |
52 |
|
Monaghan |
12 |
|
North Tipperary* |
6 |
|
Offaly* |
27 |
|
Roscommon |
0 |
|
Sligo |
2 |
|
South Dublin** |
19 |
|
South Tipperary |
0 |
|
Waterford City |
20 |
|
Waterford County |
12 |
|
Westmeath* |
17 |
|
Wexford |
0 |
|
Wicklow |
40 |
|
Total |
499 |
*Figures for these areas are held by and provided by the HSE via the CCC.
**Figure is provisional and pending finalisation.
Hospital Staff.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Question:68 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding negotiations for a new contract for hospital consultants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11812/07]
Olwyn Enright
Question:110 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding the current consultant contract talks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12038/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 110 together.
I have been informed by the independent Chairman of the talks, Mr Mark Connaughton SC, that following soundings of the parties, he is "cautiously optimistic" that agreement can be reached on new contractual arrangements for medical consultants. The Government has set a deadline of 17 April 2007 for the conclusion of the talks and have asked the HSE to prepare advertisements for badly needed new consultant posts in that week.
Drugs Payment Scheme.
Joe Costello
Question:69 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that treatments for the rare disease congenital sucrose isomaltase deficiency cost over €400 a month; if she will add this disease to the list of long-term illnesses in order to aid persons with this disease; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12012/07]
Under the 1970 Health Act, the Health Service Executive may arrange for the supply, without charge, of drugs, medicines and medical and surgical appliances to people with a specified condition, for the treatment of that condition, through the Long Term Illness Scheme (LTI). The LTI does not cover GP fees or hospital co-payments. The conditions are: mental handicap, mental illness (for people under 16 only), phenylketonuria, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida, hydrocephalus, diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, haemophilia, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophies, parkinsonism, conditions arising from thalidomide and acute leukaemia. There are currently no plans to extend the list of eligible conditions.
Products which are necessary for the management of the specified illness are available to LTI patients. Other products are available according to the patient's eligibility. People who cannot, without undue hardship, arrange for the provision of medical services for themselves and their dependants may be entitled to a medical card. In the assessment process, the Health Service Executive can take into account medical costs incurred by an individual or a family. Those who are not eligible for a medical card may still be able to avail of a GP card, which covers the cost of general practice consultations.
Non-medical card holders and people whose illness is not covered by the LTI can use the Drug Payment Scheme, which protects against excessive medicines costs. Under this scheme, no individual or family unit pays more than €85 per calendar month, or approximately €20 per week, towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines. The scheme is easy to use and significantly reduces the cost burden for families and individuals incurring ongoing expenditure on medicines. In addition, the Deputy will be aware that non-reimbursed medical expenses above a set threshold may be offset against tax.
Hospitals Building Programme.
Trevor Sargent
Question:70 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Health and Children the value of the land approximately to be given to private individuals to build private hospitals on public land; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11990/07]
No public land is being given to private individuals to build private hospitals. In July 2005, following Government approval, I issued a policy direction to the Health Service Executive to develop co-located private hospitals on the sites of public hospitals. The aim of this initiative is to transfer private activity from within the public hospital system to new privately financed and managed facilities and thereby free up approximately 1,000 additional beds for public patients.
The land to develop co-located private hospitals will be leased, not sold, on a commercial basis to successful bidders. There will be a rigorous value for money assessment of all proposals. Any transaction will be on a commercial basis and will fully protect the public interest. There will be full adherence to public procurement law and best practice.
Pharmacy Regulations.
Willie Penrose
Question:71 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the delays in talks between Health Service Executive and the IPE regarding representation by the IPU; her plans to address these delays; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12068/07]
As the Deputy may be aware, my Department and the HSE have been reviewing the pharmaceutical supply chain, with a view to seeking value for money in the State's drugs bill in order to better fund existing and innovative therapies without compromising continuity of supply or patient safety. The review of the Irish Pharmaceutical Health Care Association (IPHA) and the Association of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers of Ireland (APMI) Agreements, with the proprietary and generic supplier representative bodies, was completed in mid-2006 and the new agreements are in place.
Following completion of the manufacturer agreements and in line with the process agreed by the Cabinet Committee, the State entered talks with the wholesaler representative body, the Pharmaceutical Distributor's Federation (PDF). As wholesale margins are not addressed in the new IPHA and APMI Agreements, the State intended to negotiate, for the first time, direct formal arrangements with the wholesale sector, to address the cost of wholesale supply to hospital and community through fair, transparent and accountable cost structures.
In particular, the State wished to examine the high margin, relative to the EU, for wholesale supply to community pharmacy and the wholesalers' claim that they supply hospitals at a loss. However, while PDF was willing to negotiate new arrangements for hospital supply, it refused to negotiate a new margin for community supply. This refusal was based on legal advice that such negotiation would interfere with agreed trading terms of third parties, community pharmacists, and expose PDF to prosecution.
Subsequent advice to the HSE indicated that the PDF position was too narrow. As wholesalers and pharmacists are undertakings for the purposes of competition law, PDF and the IPU are associations of undertakings and collective negotiation of fees, prices or margins on behalf of their members breaches section 4.1 of the 2002 Competition Act.
Section 4.1 prohibits all agreements between undertakings, decisions by associations of undertakings and concerted practices which have the object or effect of restricting or distorting competition, including agreements to fix prices, unless the agreement, decision or concerted practice meets certain conditions. I have been advised that those conditions are not met in this case.
Wholesalers and pharmacy contractors are undertakings. Therefore, PDF and the IPU are associations of undertakings and come under Section 4.1 of the Act. The coming together of wholesalers under PDF or pharmacy contractors under the IPU to negotiate prices would be a breach of Section 4.1. Acting in contravention of Section 4.1 is a criminal offence and would expose those parties and their officials to the risk of criminal prosecution.
In light of the implications for GP and dental contract negotiations, the Department sought the Attorney General's views. The Attorney General and Senior Counsel engaged by the Attorney General confirmed the HSE advice. Given this position, it is not possible for the State to negotiate with PDF or the IPU on fees or margins and such negotiations places these bodies at risk of prosecution.
As with the rest of the supply chain, the State has been examining how to improve value for money and transparency and fairness in relation to the cost of service provision in community pharmacy. The State intended to address the review through negotiation with the IPU, as in the past. This is no longer possible for fees, although contractual matters other than fees may be negotiated.
Accordingly, the negotiating team re-examined, in light of the legal position arising from the wholesaler legal advice, how best to address the review of pharmacy contractor services. The HSE wrote to all community pharmacy contractors in January, setting out the situation in detail and stating that the HSE is constrained from negotiating fees with the IPU for the reasons outlined, and the IPU was fully briefed. A meeting was held on 21 February between the negotiating team and the IPU, to agree a procedure to examine available options for advancing contractual negotiations in compliance with Irish and EU competition law. Following that meeting, agreement was reached on talks to examine options for contract review that would comply fully with competition law. The talks will be chaired by Mr Bill Shipsey, SC. It is expected that the talks will begin within the next few days.
The State continues to recognise the IPU as the representative body for its members, but negotiations with the union must comply with the law. The legal issues that emerged during the wholesale sector review were raised by the wholesaler representatives. Once the State became aware of these issues, it was no longer possible to continue as intended. There is, and will continue to be, ongoing dialogue with the IPU as the representative body for pharmacists, within the constraints of the competition legislation. The negotiating team will consider, in the context of competition law and in particular the relevant Competition Authority guidelines, all available options for advancing the process agreed by the Cabinet Committee on Health. I am satisfied that the Cabinet Committee process for review of the supply of drugs to the State is progressing effectively, within the constraints of relevant legislation.
Hospital Procedures.
Joan Burton
Question:72 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of cancelled elective operations in each area in 2005, 2006 and to date in 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12006/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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.
Hospitals Capacity.
Jack Wall
Question:73 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children if the expected results of the Health Service Executive extensive survey of capacity across all acute hospitals will be published in March 2007 as promised; if not, the date for its publication; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12013/07]
The Health Service Executive has informed my Department that it expects to publish the report in April.
Services for People with Disabilities.
Emmet Stagg
Question:74 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the delays and waiting times for children with Down’s syndrome trying to access a speech therapist; her further views on the fact that there is currently no speech therapist available in the Dunshaughlin centre as there has been no maternity cover available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12063/07]
As the Deputy may be aware, a sum of €75 million for revenue purposes was provided to the Health Service Executive for Disability Services in the 2007 Budget. This sum incorporates the 2007 element of the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy. This Strategy is committed to enhancing the level and range of multidisciplinary support services to adults and children with an intellectual, physical and sensory disability and those with autism.
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.
Cancer Control Strategy.
Trevor Sargent
Question:75 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the warning issued by the Environmental Health Officers Association regarding the risk of skin cancer from sun beds; her plans to introduce legislation to have agreed age restrictions for sun bed use; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11991/07]
I am aware of concerns expressed by the Environmental Health Officers Association regarding the risk of skin cancer from sunbed use.
When launching the Strategy for Cancer Control in Ireland on 12 June last I announced that the Government had accepted my proposal to restrict the use of sunbeds to adults only. Heads of a Bill are being prepared for consideration by Government to regulate the use of sunbeds, including prohibiting their use by those under 16. The proposals will also provide for the compulsory placing of warning notices in sunbed salons and other places where sunbeds are available for use by the public.
Health Service Staff.
Paul McGrath
Question:76 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she is satisfied that there are enough public health nurses in the Health Service Executive primary and community care sector to maintain levels of care in the community now and to deal with the anticipated workload for public health nurses in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12056/07]
At the end of December 2006 there were a total of 1,674 whole time equivalent public health nurses (1,978 individual public health nurses) employed by the Health Service Executive. This year the HSE is sponsoring 156 nurses to undertake the higher diploma in Public Health Nursing. The annual cost of this programme is in excess of €7 million. The projected supply from these training courses is expected to meet current demand.
In addition to public health nurses, care in the community is delivered by a mix of different skills and disciplines e.g. registered general nurses, home helps and health care assistants. In certain geographical areas, public health nurse vacancies are waiting to be filled. In these areas, registered general nurses and health care assistants are employed to enhance the skill mix and maximise the services of the existing public health nurses in that area.
Primary Care Teams, of which nursing will be a key component, are currently being developed by the HSE in line with the Primary Care Strategy and the targets set in the Towards 2016 agreement. The precise composition of teams will depend on the needs, demographics and geographic location of the population served. Recruitment of staff for the teams is ongoing.
I have no doubt that the HSE fully recognises that workforce planning is a dynamic process and must continue to be conscious of future developments and additional future demands particularly, in the context of the most effective use of all human resources and skill mix.
Cancer Control Strategy.
Shane McEntee
Question:77 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Health and Children when she will appoint the promised Director of Cancer Control; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12059/07]
The aim of the National Cancer Control Strategy, which was published in June 2006, is to reduce our cancer incidence, morbidity and mortality rates relative to other Member States of the European Union. This Government is committed to investing significantly in the implementation of the Strategy to build on the improvements we have made in recent years, particularly the improvements in survival in all the major cancers.
The HSE, at my Department's request, is conducting a national needs assessment for cancer control which will set out priorities in the medium term. I have made available an additional €20.5m this year for cancer control. This is an increase of 74% on the comparable 2006 investment and includes €3.5 million to support the initial implementation of the HSE National Cancer Control Programme. The Programme will manage, organise and deliver cancer control on a whole population basis. It will have a strong emphasis on prevention and early detection, integrated across primary, hospital, supportive and palliative care.
The Service Plan of the HSE for this year sets out the detailed deliverables of the Programme. The main priorities are the establishment of the leadership team to implement the Programme, including the Director of the Programme and key medical leaders at national and network level. My Department is expecting a detailed submission from the HSE shortly which will be considered as a matter of priority in consultation with the Department of Finance.
Question No. 78 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
Health Service Reform.
Catherine Murphy
Question:79 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children the controls mechanism retained by her in relation to the spending of the Health Service Executive budget on non-medical consultants who are employed specifically to advise on the running of the health services; the function the advisory councils play; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11964/07]
As part of the arrangements for the appointment of Professor Brendan Drumm as Chief Executive Officer, the Board of the HSE agreed that support and advisory resources would be provided for the implementation of the health service reform programme. Section 24 of the Health Act 2004 empowers the HSE to engage such advisers as it considers necessary for the performance of its functions. Any fees due to an adviser so engaged are payable by the HSE out of funds at its disposal.
The Health Act 2004 also sets out the HSE's responsibilities in relation to codes of standards of integrity, conduct and governance. Under Section 35 of the Act, the HSE is obliged to submit a Code of Governance for my approval. A draft Code of Governance was received from the Executive at the end of September 2006. It comprises a suite of documents which make up a Framework for the Corporate and Financial Governance of the HSE. The contents of this Code are being assessed by my Department and discussions are being finalised with other Departments/Offices that have an interest in this issue. I anticipate that the examination of the Code will be completed shortly and I will be in contact with the HSE at that point.
In relation to function of advisory councils, in October 2006, the HSE launched four Expert Advisory Groups (EAGs) to advise on the organisation and development of health and personal social services in the areas of Children, Diabetes, Mental Health and Older People. EAGs provide a central platform within the HSE for clinical and health communities, patients, clients, managers and carers to become actively involved in the development and transformation of specific health and social care services. They provide opportunities for front line professionals to use their knowledge and experience to influence operational policy development within the HSE. They also enable recognised leaders to apply their expertise and, where possible, bring an international perspective to the health transformation programme.
EAGs ensure that the highest international standards of care and best practice and integral to the HSE planning process. In addition, they play a key role in driving integration across the HSE's three service delivery units — National hospitals Office (NHO); Primary, Community and Continuing Care (PCCC) and Population Health and also in promoting national consistency. Each EAG has 20 members and meets on a monthly basis. Since their establishment, each of the Groups have met several times and identified the main issues which they will focus on into the future.
National Treatment Purchase Fund.
Liz McManus
Question:80 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on reports that patients for cataract operations are going directly onto the National Treatment Purchase Fund; the number of people who are waiting for cataract operations on public waiting lists and on NTPF lists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12003/07]
Statutory responsibility for the collation, management and publication of data on waiting times for in-patient and day-case procedures for public patients rests with the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF). My Department has, therefore, asked the Chief Executive of the NTPF to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the information requested.
Hospitals Expenditure.
Joe Sherlock
Question:81 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost per patient per day in 2006 in hospitals (details supplied) in County Cork. [11820/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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.
Accident and Emergency Services.
Shane McEntee
Question:82 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients discharged from acute hospitals to intermediate care beds under the Ten Point Plan to deal with the accident and emergency crisis; the average length of stay for these patients; the location the intermediate care was provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12058/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services, including responsibility for the collection of data on hospital activity, is a matter for the Health Service Executive. My Department has, therefore, requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the specific information requested.
Child Health Screening.
Olwyn Enright
Question:83 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of primary schools the school screening service was unable to cover within 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12039/07]
Billy Timmins
Question:91 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of schools not offered an initial health assessment at school entry under the school screening service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12040/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 91 together.
I have been informed by the Health Service Executive (HSE) that the statistical information is not collected in the format requested. However, set out as follows are the principles guiding the provision of school screening services in this country.
"Best health for Children" introduced national recommendations on Child Health Screening and Surveillance Programme in 1999 and these were revised in 2005. In summary, current recommendations regarding Child Health Screening that should be offered to children attending primary school are as follows:
Health assessment at school entry, with follow-up selective medical examination where necessary.
Hearing screening at school entry.
Vision screening at school entry and at school exit.
The school screening service is Public Health Nursing led and where anomalies are discovered, children are referred to the Area Medical Officer service, Community Ophthalmology or a service relevant to the issue that has been highlighted. Should any urgent medical issues arise, an appropriate referral is advised. There is coverage of all public primary schools and uptake rates are very satisfactory. In areas where the service is unable to visit all schools during the school year, the outstanding schools are visited as early as possible the following school year. Particular emphasis is placed on children who join a school who have not had a previous school health examination and in these cases all elements of the screening programme are provided to those children.
A Health Assessment Questionnaire for completion by parents has also been introduced in some areas and based on the review of these questionnaires by the school Public Health Nurse, children are referred to school Medical Clinics at their local Health Centre if necessary. In the case of a child being absent on the day of screening parents are offered the facility of bringing their child to the local Health Centre for screening at a nurse-led Child Health Clinic.
Health Service Reform.
Kathleen Lynch
Question:84 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether a value for money audit should now be conducted by the Comptroller and Auditor General following reports on salaries and expenses paid to the top advisers to the CEO of the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12009/07]
As part of the arrangements for the appointment of Professor Brendan Drumm as Chief Executive Officer, the Board of the HSE agreed that support and advisory resources would be provided for the implementation of the health service reform programme. Section 24 of the Health Act, 2004 empowers the HSE to engage such advisers as it considers necessary for the performance of its functions. Any fees due to an adviser so engaged are payable by the HSE out of funds at its disposal.
It was agreed that one of the roles would be filled immediately by internal re-assignment and a second by secondment. The remaining three roles were of a consultancy nature and were filled through a public procurement process. I understand that all of these advisers are contracted to provide 135 days each per annum but that different annual rates applied to each individual. Where work is required in excess of the 135 days, a per diem rate applied. This is capped at 20%, i.e. 27 days per annum.
The HSE is of the view that the daily rates provided for in the contracts involved are not excessive when compared with daily norms for management consultancy input across the public sector and the economy as a whole. The individuals concerned are actively assisting the CEO in implementing the health reform programme, which is the most ambitious reform programme in the history of the State. In relation to whether a value for money audit should be conducted by the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), the C&AG is an independent Constitutional Officer, appointed by the President on the nomination of the Dáil. It would not be a matter for me, as Minister for Health and Children to instruct or advise his Office as to what work should be carried out. However, I would, of course, assist in any way possible any audit which he may see fit to carry out, in any area which he may feel warranted examination.
By way of additional information, it is worth noting that the Health Act 2004 sets out the HSE's responsibilities in relation to codes of standards of integrity, conduct and governance. Under Section 35 of the Act, the HSE is obliged to submit a Code of Governance for my approval. A draft Code of Governance was received from the Executive at the end of September 2006. It comprises a suite of documents which make up a Framework for the Corporate and Financial Governance of the HSE. The contents of this Code are being assessed by my Department and discussions are being finalised with other Departments/Offices that have an interest in this issue. I anticipate that the examination of the Code will be completed shortly and I will be in contact with the HSE at that point.
General Medical Services Scheme.
Dan Boyle
Question:85 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if the changes in the GMS scheme where prescriptions used to be updated every month and are now updated every three months has made a difference in terms of cost and efficiency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11993/07]
The repeat prescription facility, whereby prescriptions for certain drugs and medicines require renewal on a three monthly, rather than a monthly, basis, was introduced on 1 March 1991, following discussions with the Irish Medical Organisation and the Irish Pharmaceutical Union. Under this scheme, patients who are stabilized on their medication no longer need to visit their general practitioner every month in order to have their prescriptions renewed.
Changes in GMS prescriptions from monthly to quarterly for suitable patients have created efficiencies for general practitioners and patients, by reducing unnecessary consultations and journeys to the GP and pharmacy. As monthly and repeat prescriptions attract the same dispensing fee, there are no savings for the Health Service Executive in terms of pharmacy fees.
Question No. 86 answered with QuestionNo. 31.
Mental Health Services.
Mary Upton
Question:87 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the relocation of the Central Mental Hospital; her views on whether the conditions in which patients are kept in the CMH are acceptable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12079/07]
In May 2006, the Government approved the development of a new national forensic mental health facility at Thornton Hall, Co. Dublin and the disposal of the site at Dundrum. The Health Service Executive has established a project team to progress the redevelopment of the Central Mental Hospital. A new governance structure will be put in place for the Central Mental Hospital in advance of its move to the new site.
Pending the provision of a new hospital at Thornton Hall, the Health Service Executive will continue to ensure that facilities and services at the Central Mental Hospital are improved and enhanced in a patient focused manner.
There have been significant developments at the hospital in recent years. The practice of "slopping-out" was ended in 2006. There are currently five fully-staffed, consultant-led multi-disciplinary teams in place in the hospital, with a further team to be developed in 2007. All patients now have access to an independent advocacy service. Additional funding of €2 million was allocated in 2007 to increase the capacity at the hospital and provide additional residential places in the community for discharged patients.
As the Deputy may be aware, a report of an inquiry into the care and treatment practices at the Central Mental Hospital was published by the Mental Health Commission in January of this year. The Health Service Executive, which is firmly committed to improving services to patients at the hospital, has submitted an Action Plan to the Commission setting out the steps and timescale for implementation of the recommendations in the Report.
Hospital Procedures.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:88 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the recent urgent calls for ICU beds in St. James; the number of major operations postponed due to lack of ICU bed availability; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12075/07]
My Department is advised by the Health Service Executive that the recent pressures at St James's Hospital are being addressed following discussion with the management of the hospital on the issue of critical care capacity. This will result in the creation of additional Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and High Dependency Bed capacity at the hospital.
It should be noted that there has been an overall increase in bed numbers in St James's of 140 in the period 2000-2006 and that ICU capacity at St James's Hospital has been increased over the past three years from 9 to 14 beds.
The HSE has advised that when procedures requiring post-operative critical care accommodation are postponed to cater for emergency admissions, the procedures are rescheduled as soon as possible.
The HSE is conducting a national review of acute bed capacity at present which will include an assessment of future critical care requirements. The HSE has also included a commitment in its 2007 Service Plan to review future critical care requirements beyond the issue of bed capacity, to ensure that service is developed in line with international best practice. A multi-disciplinary project group is being established to facilitate this review.
In relation to the specific issue of the number of major operations postponed, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Cancer Screening Programme.
Michael D. Higgins
Question:89 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children the views on the roll out of cervical cancer screening; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12081/07]
It is my objective to have an effective national cervical screening programme rolled out, beginning late this year. This will result in a substantial reduction in the incidence of cervical cancer. For that purpose, on 1 January 2007, I established a National Cancer Screening Service which amalgamates BreastCheck and the Irish Cervical Screening Programme (ICSP). The total allocation to the new Service is €33m; this is a 71% increase on the 2006 allocation to the Programmes. This includes additional funding of €5m for 2007 to the Service to commence roll out of the ICSP by the end of the year.
The National Cancer Screening Service is planning to have cervical screening managed as a national call/recall programme via effective governance structures that provide overall leadership and direction, in terms of quality assurance, accountability and value for money. All elements of the programme, call/recall, smear taking, laboratories, colposcopy and treatment services will be quality assured, organised and managed to deliver a single integrated national service.
Hospital Accommodation.
John Perry
Question:90 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether Government policy on the cost of private beds in public hospitals and her co-location plan will have a significant impact on the cost increase of health insurance premiums; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12023/07]
Phil Hogan
Question:96 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has conducted an analysis on the expected cost increase in insurance premiums as a result of her co-location plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12021/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 90 and 96 together.
In July 2005, I announced an initiative designed to provide up to 1,000 additional beds for public patients. This is to be achieved through the development of private hospitals on the sites of public hospitals, transferring private activity to those hospitals and freeing up beds currently reserved for private patients.
As the charges levied on private health insurers for treating private patients in public hospitals are subsidised, the transfer of 1,000 beds will impact on private health insurance costs as private hospitals will have to charge the full economic rate, including the need for return on their capital investment. However, it is in any case, long standing Government policy that the full economic rate should be charged for private beds in public hospitals.
There are other cost drivers associated with increases in premiums apart from the cost of the bed. These include the costs associated with an ageing population, increasing drugs costs and accelerated technology innovation.
However, I do not believe that, in the context of approximately €1 billion in health insurance premia now being paid in Ireland, the additional cost, over some years, of fully charged beds in public or private hospitals, or in co-located facilities, will provide an insuperable challenge to the private health insurance market or will make insurance unaffordable.
Question No. 91 answered with QuestionNo. 83.
Drug Treatment Programme.
Dinny McGinley
Question:92 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the availability of drug free heroin treatment facilities and options; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7728/07]
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.
Cancer Screening Programme.
Brendan Howlin
Question:93 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the reported 30,000 backlogged smear tests waiting to be examined here; if she will confirm reports that these backlogged tests are to be sent to the US to be processed; her views on plans for a national cervical cancer screening programme; her further views on whether without the means to process tests that a national programme is meaningless; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12067/07]
It is my objective to have an effective national cervical screening programme rolled out, beginning late this year. This will result in a substantial reduction in the incidence of cervical cancer. For that purpose, on 1 January 2007, I established a National Cancer Screening Service which amalgamates BreastCheck and the Irish Cervical Screening Programme (ICSP). The total allocation to the new Service is €33m; this is a 71% increase on the 2006 allocation to the Programmes. This includes additional funding of €5m for 2007 to the Service to commence roll out of the ICSP by the end of the year.
The National Cancer Screening Service is planning to have cervical screening managed as a national call/recall programme via effective governance structures that provide overall leadership and direction, in terms of quality assurance, accountability and value for money. All elements of the programme, call/recall, smear taking, laboratories, colposcopy and treatment services will be quality assured, organised and managed to deliver a single integrated national service. The Service is preparing for national roll-out later this year based on a turnaround time of four weeks for programme smears. The Service will develop new contractual arrangements for tests in 2008, which will include service level agreements to achieve this objective and has my full support in this regard.
The current delays in turnaround times for laboratory test results are not acceptable. I understand that the HSE is working with the hospitals concerned to clear the backlog by referring smears to accredited laboratories in the US. The HSE has informed my Department that it has reviewed hospital services, including cytology, and is planning on the basis of a 4 week turnaround time in reporting. I have requested the HSE to achieve this target as quickly as possible.
Health Services.
Róisín Shortall
Question:94 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position of the dental scheme for medical cardholders known as the dental treatment services scheme which is under serious threat due to the current Government’s failure to complete a full review of the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12071/07]
The Dental Treatment Service Scheme (DTSS) provides for a range of dental services for adult medical card holders from participating dentists holding contracts with the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The DTSS Review Group was established in May 2006 to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services provided under the DTSS. Represented on the Review Group are the HSE, the Health Service Employers Agency, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Department of Finance and the Irish Dental Association (IDA). The Group is chaired by Mr Finbar Flood.
Since the Group was established, a legal issue has arisen with regard to the Competition Act 2002 as it relates to the negotiation of professional fees. My Department has sought legal advice from the Attorney General in this regard. In the meantime, the management side has offered to continue discussions on the non-fee element of the review. The IDA has not accepted this offer.
I understand that the IDA are balloting their members on a proposal to withdraw their support from the DTSS.
The existing contractual arrangements with private dental practitioners under the DTSS for the provision of dental services to eligible patients remain in place.
Departmental Publications.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:95 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the date the Barrington Report will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12016/07]
Under its terms of reference The Barrington Group is due to report by the end of the month. I would intend to publish the Report by the end of April, having considered the proposals contained therein and made a related submission to Government.
Question No. 96 answered with QuestionNo. 90.
Question No. 97 answered with QuestionNo. 39.
Health Services.
Breeda Moynihan-Cronin
Question:98 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the lack of provision for children with acquired brain injury; the measures she will take to address same and when; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12010/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal 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.
Accident and Emergency Services.
Joe Sherlock
Question:99 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients who were treated in the Mallow accident and emergency unit in 2005 and 2006; if the unit is a stand alone or under the heading of Cork University Hospital. [11819/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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.
Health Services.
Brendan Howlin
Question:100 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the Health Service Executive tendering a development for acutely ill respiratory patients called Hospital in the Home to a private health care company; her further views on the lack of funding for existing respiratory outreach programmes through public hospitals which had hoped to expand and which was effective; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12066/07]
From a policy perspective I am supportive of initiatives which are designed to ensure the provision of outreach services for patients in an alternative setting, where such services need not be provided within an acute hospital.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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 issues raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the issues raised by the Deputy investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Question No. 101 answered with QuestionNo. 9.
Question No. 102 answered with QuestionNo. 27.
Question No. 103 answered with QuestionNo. 35.
Hospital Staff.
Phil Hogan
Question:104 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of consultants who have agreed to renounce their right to treat private patients in 20 per cent of the public beds in relation to her proposed co-located hospitals sites; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12020/07]
Under the existing Common Contract, Consultants holding Category 1 contracts would not be entitled to practice in co-located private hospitals. However, as part of the ongoing discussions in relation to a new Common Contract, management has tabled proposals which would allow existing Category 1 Consultants and newly appointed Consultants to practise in co-located private hospitals in the context of changed work practices and new arrangements to manage public and private work.
Question No. 105 answered with QuestionNo. 22.
Health Service Staff.
Ruairí Quinn
Question:106 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the lack of funding for services for cystic fibrosis; the position regarding the medical posts to be filled for the treatment of cystic fibrosis; the time frame for allocation of resources; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12084/07]
I have identified the enhancement of services for people with cystic fibrosis as a key priority in 2006 and again in 2007. Development funding of €4.78 million was provided to the Health Service Executive in 2006 to facilitate the recruitment of additional medical, nursing and allied health professional staff to improve services for cystic fibrosis patients. Additional funding of €2 million has been allocated this year to build on the investment provided in 2006.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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 issues 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.
Hospital Procedures.
Brian O'Shea
Question:107 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children the position of the living kidney transplant programme; her views on the family (details supplied) who described receiving a letter informing them of the suspension of the transplant programme; her further views on subsequent letters from Beaumont Hospital which stated that the programme will recommence in August 2007; the measures she will take to help those waiting for this programme to restart; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12077/07]
Denis Naughten
Question:170 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Health Service Executive are claiming that living donor kidney transplants have recommenced yet patients on waiting lists have been informed that operations are being postponed; the action she is taking to resolve the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12183/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 170 together.
I have requested and am awaiting a report of Beaumont Hospital on recent reports that the living donor related transplant programme has been suspended.
I identified the development of a living-related renal donor programme as a service priority in 2006. As part of the overall development of renal services my Department provided revenue funding of €8m to the HSE to support the provision of dialysis facilities and the development of a living related donor programme. Additional funding of €4m has also been provided in 2007 to continue to support the national development of renal services.
The HSE has advised that it has approved three additional consultant posts for the programme and is also working with the hospital to increase available theatre capacity for the programme.
My Department is advised by the HSE that a total of 15 living related transplants have been planned at Beaumont this year.
Accident and Emergency Services.
Catherine Murphy
Question:108 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the €60 charge is applied in cases where a patient is referred to non accident and emergency departments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11822/07]
The Health (Out-Patient Charges) (Amendment) Regulations, 2005, provide for a statutory charge of €60 for attendance at Accident and Emergency Departments. This charge is levied only on persons who attend at Accident and Emergency Departments without a referral note from their doctor and applies only for the first visit of any episode of care. This applies to everyone receiving treatment in a public hospital with the exception of, inter alia, persons with full eligibility, women receiving services in respect of motherhood, children up to the age of six weeks and children suffering from prescribed long term diseases.
The Health (In-Patient Charges) (Amendment) Regulations, 2005, impose a charge of €60 per night up to a maximum of €600 in any twelve consecutive months, during which an individual is maintained as an in-patient in a public hospital. This includes persons who are admitted to the hospital as a day case. These are the only circumstances under which a statutory charge of €60 can be raised. If the Deputy has a particular case in mind she might forward the details to me and I will have it investigated by the Health Service Executive.
Garda Investigations.
Paul Connaughton
Question:109 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Garda Commissioner has made any contact with her Department regarding Garda Síochána inquiries into the sequence of events that took place at Leas Cross Nursing Home; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12029/07]
I wrote to the Garda Commissioner on 31 May 2005, requesting that he discuss with the Health Service Executive (HSE) certain issues which had come to light in relation to Leas Cross Nursing Home. The Commissioner met with the HSE and it was agreed that the HSE would conduct an initial examination of all the circumstances in respect of patients at Leas Cross Nursing Home.
The Leas Cross report was published by the Health Service Executive on the 10th November 2006 and forwarded to An Garda Síochána. I understand a Chief Superintendent has been appointed to follow up on any criminal matters that may arise from the report. I further understand that a meeting was scheduled between the National Director of the Primary Community and Continuing Care (PCCC) of the HSE and the Chief Superintendent for 27th March 2007. The Garda Commissioner has not made any contact with the Department of Health and Children.
Question No. 110 answered with QuestionNo. 68.
Garda Stations.
Shane McEntee
Question:111 Mr. McEntee asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there are proposals for a full-time Garda station in Dunshaughlin, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12132/07]
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 13,178 following the attestation of 273 new members on Wednesday 14 March, 2007. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) on 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,476 (or over 23%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The combined strength (all ranks), of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training on 14 March, 2007 was 14,258. Furthermore, I should say that on 19 December, 2006, as part of a package of anti-crime measures, the Government approved the continuation of the existing Garda recruitment programme to achieve a total Garda strength of 15,000. The accelerated intake of approximately 1,100 new recruits per annum into the Garda College will continue until this target is met. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.4 billion, an 11% increase on 2006 and a 96% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of Dunshaughlin Garda Station on 28 March, 2007 was 9 (all ranks). Dunshaughlin Garda Station forms part of the Ashbourne Garda District. The personnel strength of the Ashbourne Garda District on 31 December, 1997 and on 28 March, 2007 was 56 and 80 (all ranks) respectively. This represents an increase of 24 (or 42%) in the number of personnel allocated since that date.
Resources are further augmented by a number of Garda National Units such as the Garda National Drugs Unit, the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), other specialised units and the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB), all of which have had increased resources.
I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that Dunshaughlin Garda Station is open to the public from 10 am to 1 pm Monday to Saturday and 12 midday to 1 pm on Sunday. Garda Management state that the Dunshaughlin area is patrolled on a 24 hours basis by members attached to Dunshaughlin Garda Station, Dunboyne Garda Station and the District Headquarters at Ashbourne.
Garda Management also state that there is currently no plan to open Dunshaughlin Garda Station on a 24 hour basis as this would necessitate the employment of additional Garda personnel on indoor administrative duties who may be more effectively employed on outdoor policing duties.
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 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.
Residency Permits.
Paul Kehoe
Question:112 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a birth certificate was not returned to persons (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if he will arrange to have it returned as soon as possible. [12145/07]
The birth certificates referred to by the Deputy were submitted to my Department in support of an application for permission to remain in the State under the revised arrangements for parents of Irish children born prior to 1 January 2005, commonly referred to as the IBC/05 Scheme. Under the Scheme it was practice not to return birth certificates to applicants.
I have since arranged for the birth certificates in question to be returned in the coming days.
Garda Districts.
Róisín Shortall
Question:113 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the electoral divisions covered by the Blanchardstown and Santry Garda districts respectively. [12153/07]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the Blanchardstown Garda District includes Blanchardstown Garda Station, Cabra Garda Station and Finglas Garda Station. I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the Blanchardstown Garda District covers part of the electoral divisions of Dublin Central, Dublin West and Dublin North West.
Garda Management state that the Santry Garda District includes Santry Garda Station, Ballymun Garda Station, Whitehall Garda Station and Dublin Airport Garda Station. Garda Management further state that the Santry Garda District covers part of the electoral divisions of Dublin North Central, Dublin North and Dublin North West.
Garda Pensions.
Trevor Sargent
Question:114 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if Garda pensions are reduced by €60 per week for Gardaí who retired before 1993; if so, the reason for this; and if he has plans to alter same. [12156/07]
Garda superannuation benefits are paid in accordance with the Garda Síochána Pensions Orders and Agreed Reports of the Garda Conciliation Council. Agreed Report 499 provides that members, who were serving on or after 1 January, 1993 would be entitled to a pension, based on unsocial hours allowances earnings with effect from 1 January, 1994. This Agreement did not make provision in respect of members, who retired prior to 1 January, 1993.
Garda pensions have not been reduced by €60 for members, who retired prior to 1 January, 1993. However, the remuneration upon which their superannuation benefits is calculated does not include unsocial hours allowances. Unsocial hours allowances are included in the remuneration upon which superannuation benefits are calculated for members who retired on or subsequent to 1 January, 1993. This is in accordance with the regulations governing Garda superannuation benefits.
Transfer of Sentence.
Joe Costello
Question:115 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12167/07]
I wish to confirm that my Department has recently received the formal transfer application and supporting documentation from the United Kingdom authorities in respect of the person referred to by the Deputy.
The matter has been referred to the State's Legal Officers in line with all such applications and their advices are currently awaited.
The Council of Europe Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons requires extensive documentation to be exchanged between both jurisdictions in order to allow an application to be fully considered. A three way consent is also required to enable any transfer to take place, i.e., from the authorities of both jurisdictions and from the person concerned. On receipt of those consents (assuming they will be forthcoming), an application must then be made to the High Court for a warrant authorising the transfer of the person concerned and his continued detention here.
These procedures are required under the Convention and the Transfer of Sentenced Persons Act, 1995, and must be adhered to in processing each application. A letter to this individual advising of the position with the application issued from my Department on 26 February, 2007.
Residency Permits.
Willie Penrose
Question:116 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application to remain in the State by a person (details supplied); if he will have same expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12175/07]
I understand that the Immigration Division of my Department has been in contact with the person concerned, informing her of the decision regarding her application for permission to remain in the State.
Garda Strength.
Paul Kehoe
Question:117 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí per head of population in Counties Carlow, Kilkenny and Wexford; the number of Garda stations in those counties staffed 24 hours a day; the breakdown of the figures including the number of Garda stations in each county; and if stab vests are available to Gardaí in the same counties. [12180/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
Departmental Publications.
Paul Kehoe
Question:118 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he expects to receive the report from the working group recently established to examine the issue of pre-nuptial agreements; and his plans to release same on receipt of it. [12181/07]
I understand that the Study Group on Pre-nuptial Agreements is finalising its report for submission to me in the coming weeks. Following its receipt I intend to publish the report.
Identification Parades.
Pat Carey
Question:119 Mr. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there is a provision in existing legislation whereby witnesses in an identity parade have to place their hand on the shoulder of the person they believe is the perpetrator of the offence; if so, his views on whether this may be off putting to many people to the extent that they may refuse to identify the offender; his further views on amending the legislation involved if such a provision exists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12182/07]
The conduct of identification parades is governed by administrative procedure rather than legislation. The current procedure used by An Garda Síochána was introduced following advice from the Law Officers. In order to ensure that there is no doubt as to the person the victim or witness has identified, it is necessary that a clear identification is made. This may be done in a number of ways, including pointing to or stating the position of a person on the line-up or stating a number assigned to them. The requirement on a witness to place his or her hand on the suspect is no longer part of the administrative practice.
The issue of identity parades was examined by the Expert Group appointed to consider changes in the criminal law recommended in the Garda SMI report, chaired by the late Eamon Leahy S.C., and more recently by the Balance in the Criminal Law Review Group, chaired by Dr. Gerard Hogan S.C.. I am reviewing the recommendations of these reports with a view to determining what improvements, if any, might be made to make the procedure less traumatic for victims.
Asylum Applications.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:120 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12191/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 21 June, 2002 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, she was informed by letter dated 28 January, 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made; or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement). I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:121 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will give favourable consideration to extending residency in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12192/07]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the persons concerned have permission to remain in the State until the 31st May, 2007, at which time their cases will be reconsidered.
Asylum Applications.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:122 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has completed his consideration under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1996 as to whether a person (details supplied) in County Galway will be given leave to remain in the State; if he has issued instruction or direction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12195/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 17 November 2002 and applied for asylum. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 10 November 2003 that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made; or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement). I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
Naturalisation Certificates.
Michael D. Higgins
Question:123 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on a case in which a person (details supplied) in County Offaly has been refused either an English version, or a copy translated from the Irish, of their naturalisation certificate of Irish citizenship. [12200/07]
The Irish language is the first official language of the State and it is standard practice that the Citizenship section of my Department issue certificates of naturalisation in Irish.
Translations of the certificate in English are available on request and I am advised that such a translation was forwarded to the person in question on 22 March 2007, in response to a query on his behalf.
Garda Deployment.
Denis Naughten
Question:124 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí appointed to each Garda station in Roscommon and south Leitrim; the numbers based there in 2002 and 1997; the opening hours of each station; the plans there are to increase the complement of Gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12201/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:125 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 375 of 31 January 2007, the nature of the information sought; when it was sent in view of the fact that the latest correspondence for his Department to solicitors acting in the case was dated 17 May 2006 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12214/07]
Further to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 375 of 31st January, 2007 I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department wrote to the solicitors acting for the person in question on the 3rd of October, 2006.
The correspondence requested that the original passport, the original birth certificate and an up-to-date letter from the school/college of the person concerned be submitted for consideration to my Department.
Refugee Status.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:126 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to an application for refugee status in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Galway, notwithstanding their residency status as parents of an Irish born child under the IBC/05 scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12215/07]
It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual applications for refugee status.
As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted.
A final decision on these applications will be made upon receipt of the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Asylum Applications.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:127 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to residency status in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 6; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12216/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 9 October 2002 and applied for asylum. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 27 August 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement). I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
Family Reunification.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:128 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to an application for family reunification in the case of persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12217/07]
The person in question made an application for Family Reunification under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996 in respect of family members in July 2003. A decision was made on this application in October 2004.
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that there are no applications pending in respect of the family members of the above named.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:129 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12218/07]
The person in question was originally granted permission to remain in the State on 27 June 2001 based on his parentage of an Irish born child. This permission has been renewed for the person concerned until 29 June 2010. The permission to remain in the State granted to the person mentioned is conditional on him continuing to reside in a family unit with the Irish citizen child in question. In the event that the person in question's circumstances change in the future, he should notify the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of my Department immediately as it may affect his residency status in the State.
Refugee Status.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:130 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason refugee status has been refused in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12219/07]
The person concerned applied for Asylum on 26/9/2006. The claim was assessed by the Refugee Applications Commissioner who concluded that the person concerned did not meet the criteria for recognition as a refugee. The Commissioner's recommendation was communicated to her by letter dated 10/11/2006. This communication advised the person of her entitlement to appeal the Commissioner's recommendation to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, which she duly did.
The Refugee Appeals Tribunal considered the person's appeal, following which the Tribunal affirmed the Commissioner's earlier recommendation to reject her claim. The outcome of the appeal was made known to the applicant by letter dated 14/3/2007
In accordance with normal procedures, the applicant's file has been forwarded to my Department's Ministerial Decisions Unit for final processing of the Asylum claim. A letter will issue to her from my Department advising her formally that her asylum claim had been rejected and affording her three options as follows:
1. Return home voluntarily
2. Consent to the making of a deportation order, or
3. Make written representations to me within 15 working days for temporary leave to remain in the state and/or make an application for subsidiary protection under the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006 (SI No. 518 of 2006)
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:131 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the distress, anxiety and hardship being suffered in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; if he will use his discretionary powers to extend temporary residency status including green card facilities by way of compassionate and humanitarian response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12220/07]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Questions No. 131 of Thursday, 8 March, 2007 (ref: 9372/07), No. 173 of Wednesday, 6 December, 2006 (ref: 42010/06) and No. 158 of Thursday, 11 May, 2006 (ref: 17811/06) and the written replies to those Questions. The position is unchanged.
Refugee Status.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:132 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of applications for refugee status in the past two years; the number refused, granted or pending; the number of appeals against decisions of the Refugee Applications Commissioner where the original decision was upheld, overturned or pending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12221/07]
The information requested by the Deputy is set out in tabular format as follows.
|
Year |
No. of Asylum ApplicationsReceived |
No. of Recommendations to grant refugee status (at first instance) |
Asylum Applications Refused (at first instance)* |
|
2005 |
4,323 |
455 |
4,787 |
|
2006 |
4,314 |
397 |
3,847 |
|
2007 (28/02) |
717 |
72 |
535 |
* Figure in this column can contain applications received in previous year.
|
Year |
Appeals processed to decision where the first instance recommendation of ORAC was affirmed |
No. of appeals upheld (granted refugee status) |
|
2005 |
3,406 |
511 |
|
2006 |
1,615 |
251 |
|
2007 (28/02) |
234 |
15 |
|
Year |
ORAC — Cases pending at year end |
RAT — Cases pending at year end |
Cases pending for more than six months in each agency (combined) |
Total cases pending at year end |
|
2005 |
1,169 |
1,235* |
433 |
2,404 |
|
2006 |
924 |
2,500 |
1,297 |
3,424 |
|
2007 (28/02) |
999 |
2,761 |
1,601 |
3,760 |
*This figure is a decrease of 32 in comparison with the figure of 1267 stated in the reply to Question No. 159 of 27 April 2006. This variation arises as a result of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal updating their statistics.
Asylum Applications.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:133 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 373 of 31 January 2007, if his conviction in this respect is as soundly based as was his reference in another context to the sting of a dying wasp; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12222/07]
The Deputy will be aware, from previous Dáil replies in this matter, that the person concerned is awaiting deportation following a comprehensive examination of his asylum claim and of his application to remain temporarily in the State.
The person concerned was considered by my officials pursuant to Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996, as amended (Prohibition of Refoulement). As the Deputy is aware, the safety of returning a person, or refoulement as it is commonly referred to, is fully considered in every case when deciding whether or not to make a deportation order. The Deputy will also be aware that the person concerned has been evading his deportation since 31 October 2003 and should present himself to the Garda Authorities without any further delay.
As I stated in my most recent reply, all refoulement issues have been fairly and comprehensively examined and, as such, the decision to deport is justified. The enforcement of the deportation order in this case remains an operational matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:134 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the re-examination of a case for leave to remain in the State on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick from the Democratic Republic of Congo has been completed; when a decision will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12233/07]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 211 of Wednesday, 7th February, 2007 (ref: 4224/07) and the written reply to that Question. The position is unchanged.
Subsidiary Protection.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:135 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will make a decision on subsidiary protection in relation to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12234/07]
The position is that the person concerned made an application for Subsidiary Protection under the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (Statutory Instrument No. 518 of 2006) on 10 January 2007. Receipt of this application was acknowledged on 22 January, 2007.
The application for Subsidiary Protection from the person concerned will be considered by my Department and a decision will issue in due course.
Family Reunification.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:136 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application for family reunification in relation to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12235/07]
The person in question made an application for Family Reunification on behalf of his family members in March 2006. The Immigration Division of my Department has recently been in contact with the person concerned requesting further documentation. On receipt of same the application will be processed further.
Asylum Applications.
Pat Breen
Question:137 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 321 of 31 January 2007, if an application for a person (details supplied) in County Clare has been processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12236/07]
I refer the Deputy to Question Number 146 of 8 November 2006 and Question Number 321 of 31 January 2007. The position remains as stated.
Prison Building Programme.
Ruairí Quinn
Question:138 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to his previous replies to parliamentary questions on proposals for the future use of the land at Mountjoy Jail, if he will sell the site in its entirety, with planning permission, to commercial interests; if he has planning consultants appointed for the purpose of advising him in that regard; the stage the process is at; if the entirety of the land is or will be classified as having commercial uses or some of it may be transferred for public and community uses; if he still maintains his initial reluctance to transfer any part of the Mountjoy Prison site to the Mater Hospital, in view of the Mater’s subsequent designation as the site for a combined national children’s hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12240/07]
I have asked the Office of Public Works to prepare a development plan for the site. This plan will, when finalised, include detailed proposals for the utilisation and development of the site and will also take account of issues to include heritage and historical context as well as the proper and sustainable development of the area itself. I have been advised that the Office of Public Works has appointed a multi-disciplinary team, which is currently engaged in the production of a site master plan / re-zoning submission. I understand that this engagement is proceeding in conjunction with Dublin City Council's Local Area Plan for the Mountjoy / Phibsboro area. The planning consultants have also been appointed.
Mountjoy will continue to operate as a prison until the new complex at Thornton has been completed and is fully operational which will not be before 2009/2010. It is too early at this stage to indicate the precise means of disposal or its utilisation. This will be dependant in part on the outcome of the multi-disciplinary team's deliberations and the planning process.
Garda Contracts.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:139 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedures for scrutiny by his Department of service contracts signed between An Garda Síochána and private commercial companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12250/07]
In accordance with the provisions of the Garda Síochána Act, 2005, the Garda Commissioner has been appointed as Accounting Officer for the Garda Vote. This provision came into effect from 14th July, 2006. The Accounting Officer is responsible for the proper expenditure of money from the Vote and the safeguarding of public funds and property. He is accountable to the Oireachtas through the Public Accounts Committee and subject to the scrutiny of the Comptroller and Auditor General. In line with the transfer of Accounting Officer functions, the Act also provides for the Garda Commissioner to enter into contracts for services and supplies and to hold bank accounts in the name of An Garda Síochána.
One important control measure provided under the Act, is the provision to establish an Audit Committee, with a total of 4 external personnel (one of whom shall be chairperson) and all of whom are required to have relevant experience. None of these appointees can be a member or have been a member of An Garda Síochána. There is one Garda Member at Deputy Commissioner level on the Committee. I appointed the Audit Committee in August last year to carry out their functions as set out in the Act. In addition, as part of the preparation for the transfer of the functions to the Garda Commissioner, additional skilled civilian resources have been provided to An Garda Síochána.
I am advised by the Garda Authorities that service contracts are awarded in accordance with national and EU procurement guidelines. I am also advised that such contracts are normally of one year duration with options to renew at the discretion of the Garda Authorities. Where proposed expenditure exceeds the delegated sanction limit authorised by the Department of Finance, a business case and request for sanction are submitted in each case to my Department so that appropriate sanction can be obtained. It is then a matter for the Garda authorities to procure the requisite goods and services and ensure that appropriate controls are in place.
Garda Communications.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:140 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedures or protocols in place for ensuring that retired members of An Garda Síochána do not, in their employment, misuse privileged information accessible to them while serving in the force, or access information covered by data protection legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12251/07]
Section 62 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 was enacted for the purpose of specifically prohibiting a person who is or was a member of the Garda Síochána or of its civilian staff, from disclosing information obtained in the course of his or her duties. The section provides stiff penalties — fines up to €75,000 and/or up to 7 years imprisonment for conviction on indictment — for persons who contravene its provisions. In addition, former Gardaí are also governed by the provisions of the Official Secrets Act. At an operational level, I understand from the Garda Authorities that members, log-on accounts for the Garda Information System (PULSE/GNIB/FCPS) are disabled upon their retirement. This ensures that they cannot access any of the Garda IT systems.
Garda Insurance.
Joe Higgins
Question:141 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if serving members of An Garda Síochána are working for or in receipt of fees from insurance companies arising from investigations into road traffic accidents; if this is authorised by senior management; and if it is legal and ethical. [12279/07]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that paragraph 6.2(3) of An Garda Síochána Code (Volume III) provides for a Garda member, who is summoned as a witness in civil proceedings, to request a viaticum from the party by whom summonsed. The viaticum is for the purpose of covering the member's anticipated necessary travelling and subsistence expenses as a result of attending court. Such civil proceedings would include insurance companies summonsing Garda members involved in the investigation of road traffic accidents where civil proceedings are instigated and result in court hearings.
Paragraph 24.5(5) of An Garda Síochána Code provides for the charging of fees to third parties, including insurance companies, when they request in writing an abstract of Garda reports, copies of witness statements, sketches/maps of scenes, etc. The fees charged are credited to the Garda Vote, through the relevant Garda District public bank accounts.
Joe Higgins
Question:142 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the agreements entered into between An Garda Síochána and individual insurance companies over the past ten years in respect of road traffic accidents and any other areas covered; the nature of such agreements; the terms and conditions; the names of the senior members of the Garda with responsibility for dealing with such agreements; and if he is kept informed of such developments. [12280/07]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between An Garda Síochána and AXA Ireland was signed by the Garda Commissioner and the Chief Executive of AXA Ireland on 22 April, 2005. The purpose of the MOU is to provide a framework to facilitate the implementation and operation of a partnership wherein An Garda Síochána and AXA Insurance Company come together with the objective of providing a safe, efficient and effective method of removing and storing all mechanically propelled vehicles which have been involved in road traffic collisions in public places.
I am further informed that a successful eight month pilot project was carried out in the South Eastern Region commencing on the 1 June, 2005 which resulted in an accrued saving of €10,000 to the Garda Vote. It is anticipated that a similar pilot under this MOU will be implemented in the DMR Region in the near future.
Missing Persons.
Catherine Murphy
Question:143 Ms C. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons reported missing in the years 2004, 2005 and 2006; the number of those persons reported missing who remained unaccounted for at the end of each of those years; the number of persons initially reported missing who were later found dead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12281/07]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following table shows the number of persons reported missing, the number remaining untraced and number found dead for the years 2004 to 2006:
|
Year |
Missing Person Reports |
Missing Persons Untraced |
Found Dead |
|
2004 |
5,060 |
59 |
56 |
|
2005 |
4,319 |
48 |
77 |
|
2006 |
6,811 |
108 |
61 |
Statistics provided for 2006 are provisional, operational and liable to change.
Asylum Applications.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:144 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision on family reunification will be made in relation to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12282/07]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the Family Reunification application from the person in question was refused on the 29th August 2006. The legal representative of the person concerned has submitted a request seeking a review of this decision together with further supporting documentation. This is currently being reviewed and a decision will issue in due course.
Drug Seizures.
Trevor Sargent
Question:145 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance if customs officials employ a sniffer dog at Shannon Airport; if so, the number of drug seizures and their total value the dog has been involved in; the length of time the dog has been employed by customs at Shannon; if no dog is employed at Shannon, when was the last time a sniffer dog was employed; the reason it was removed from duties; and the running costs associated with employing a sniffer dog on an annual basis. [12239/07]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that one drug detector dog is permanently based at Shannon Airport. A dog has been used by customs officials at the airport continuously since 1991. The annual cost of the dog team — including the salary of the dog handler — is approximately €86,000 with an initial start up cost of €54,000.
The dog based in Shannon is trained to quickly pass over baggage, or through a group of people, and detect prohibited drugs by smell. On detection, the dog sits and "points" at the location of the drugs. The dog is then immediately removed by its handler, and further investigation is carried out by other members of the customs team. Quite often, the dog is used to support or negate suspicions formed by customs officers observing traffic through the airport. Because the dog always works as part of a larger team, separate statistics are not kept for detections by the dog.
Over the last three years there have been 145 drug seizures with an estimated street value of €499,925 at Shannon Airport and the dog has been involved in a very significant number of them. Revenue views the use of dogs as an essential part of its anti-smuggling activities, and has no intention of reducing the dog team's activities at Shannon.
Tax Code.
Michael Ring
Question:146 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if there is hope of getting tax designation for an area (details supplied) in County Mayo. [12126/07]
A number of areas in Mayo are already designated for relief under the 2 main area based tax incentive schemes, Ballina was among the 42 towns and cities that had integrated areas designated for tax relief under the 1999 Urban Renewal Scheme, while Belmullet, Charlestown and Foxford had sub-areas and sites designated for tax relief under the Town Renewal Scheme. Under both of these schemes tax relief has been provided for the refurbishment and construction of certain residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
Following a major review of various property and area based tax incentive schemes I announced in Budget 2006 that most of the existing reliefs either had achieved the objectives set out for them or were no longer considered to be cost effective in terms of the objectives set out for them and were therefore being terminated subject to certain transitional provisions. These included the Urban Renewal and Town Renewal Schemes. While I will continue to assess the role that time-limited tax relief schemes can play in supporting public policy objectives, there are no proposals at present to re-introduce tax incentive schemes along the lines of the ongoing Urban or Town Renewal Schemes in County Mayo.
Employment Conditions.
Brian O'Shea
Question:147 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance his proposals to address the concerns of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12157/07]
I have had enquiries made into the concerns raised by the Deputy on behalf of the person in question. I am informed by his employing Office that the person involved has had lengthy correspondence concerning aspects of his conditions of service and that the concerns have been fully considered and addressed appropriately. I am also informed that in the light of recent developments, certain aspects of these matters are being re-examined.
State Property.
Denis Naughten
Question:148 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the reason the Office of Public Works have not made provision for the driving test centre as part of either the GRO or land registry sites in Roscommon Town in line with a general agreement with the Road Safety Authority and its predecessor; if he will review its exclusion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12213/07]
There are no plans to relocate the existing driving test centre at Circular Road. It is envisaged, however, that the existing facilities will be upgraded.
Site Acquisitions.
Denis Naughten
Question:149 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance his plans to purchase lands (details supplied) in County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12254/07]
The Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland act as agents for the Department of Education & Science in the acquisition of sites for primary schools. The Commissioners finalised the purchase of a site for Rathcroghan National School on 23rd January, 2007.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:150 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the arrangements for the appointment of an agent to deal with the purchase by the State of a site (details supplied) for €26 million; the amount paid to the agent and other costs associated with the purchase. [12286/07]
The agents who are engaged to deal with the purchase of the site in question are part of the multi-disciplinary design team which was selected by an EU wide procurement process to produce a redevelopment plan for the Mountjoy Jail site. This purchase was made to enhance those development possibilities. The agent was paid a fee for this purchase of €94,000 (plus VAT) equivalent to 0.4% of the purchase price. No other costs were incurred in connection with the purchase.
Tax Code.
Jack Wall
Question:151 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) is entitled to a tax refund as a self employed person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12288/07]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the taxpayer has been assessed for tax in accordance with the returns he has submitted as a self employed person and that there are no refunds due to him by the Revenue Commissioners at this time.
Child Care Services.
Pat Breen
Question:152 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the regulations regarding procedures for staff of crèches and nurseries for evacuating pre-school children in the event of an emergency; her plans to introduce or expand on such regulations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12161/07]
The Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 and (Amendment) Regulations 1997 give effect to Part VII of the Child Care Act 1991 and provide for notification to, and inspection by the Health Service Executive of pre-school services. The Regulations apply to pre-schools, playgroups, day nurseries, crèches and other similar services which cater for children under six years of age. The Health Service Executive has statutory responsibility for the implementation of these Regulations.
Judgments as to whether a pre-school service is in compliance with the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 and (Amendment) Regulations 1997 are made on inspection by the pre-school services inspection teams of the Health Service Executive. This responsibility will continue to lie with the Health Service Executive on the introduction of the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 2006 on 3 September 2007.
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the Executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for overseeing the safety and well-being of children in pre-school child care in accordance with the Child Care Act 1991 and the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 and (Amendment) Regulations 1997. 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.
Question No. 153 answered with QuestionNo. 36.
Primary Care Strategy.
Michael Ring
Question:154 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to locate a primary care centre in a town (details supplied) in County Mayo; the action that has been taken in this matter; and if this town is still the chosen location for this facility. [12130/07]
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, home helps, physiotherapists, 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 the location in question, my Department provided some €510,000 in revenue and €235,000 in capital funding in 2002/2003 to enable the establishment of a Primary Care Team as one of the initial ten Primary Care Implementation Projects. 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.
Health Services.
Jerry Cowley
Question:155 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has to wait seven months for assessment for a primary certificate; her views on whether this in an excessive amount of time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12131/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal 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.
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:156 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will appoint a microbiologist at Kerry General Hospital in view of the winter vomiting bug there at the moment and the high levels of MRSA; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12138/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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.
Gay Mitchell
Question:157 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive will review the care of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12. [12139/07]
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.
Beverley Flynn
Question:158 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo was not informed that they may qualify for a domiciliary allowance for their daughter; and if they are entitled to receive that amount that should have been awarded to them now. [12142/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal 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.
Tom McEllistrim
Question:159 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kerry with MS has been waiting for a wheelchair which has been ordered for them over the past year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12143/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal 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 and to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Services for People with Disabilities.
Emmet Stagg
Question:160 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 199 and 222 of 21 March 2007, if pupils in a special school for children with autism, which is not recognised, are entitled to the services of special needs dentists; and if not, the reason for same. [12150/07]
The statutory position governing the eligibility of children to dental treatment under the Health Service Executive (HSE) service is Section 66 of the Health Act, 1970, the Health (Amendment) Act 1994 and the Health (Dental Services for Children) Regulations, 2000 (S.I. No. 248 of 2000). Responsibility for delivery of health services is a matter for the HSE.
Children in specific classes in national school, usually second, fourth and sixth class, are targeted for preventive measures under the school based approach; the children in these classes are screened and referred for treatment as necessary; the programme has been specifically designed to ensure that children are dentally fit before they leave national school. The screening provided in second, fourth and sixth classes ensures that follow up appointments for examination, treatment or orthodontic review are made, as necessary, with the Dental Surgeon in the clinic designated for the particular school(s). Children who have attended national school retain eligibility to dental treatment up to their 16th birthday.
The Irish Medicines Board (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2006, contains provision for the amendment of Section 66 of the Health Act, 1970 to provide for a health examination and treatment service for pupils attending any primary school. The Irish Medicines Board (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2006, also contains provision for the amendment of the Health (Amendment) Act, 1994 to provide dental health services to children attending any primary school. My officials are currently in discussion with the Health Service Executive with a view to ensuring an early commencement to the relevant sections of the Act.
Health Services.
Ned O'Keeffe
Question:161 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate an application for home help where the person (details supplied) in County Cork is only prepared to allow their daughter carry out home help duties; and if she will make a special exception in this case as this person has just been discharged from hospital. [12151/07]
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.
Medical Cards.
Seán Ardagh
Question:162 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason general practitioners are charging medical card holders for signing medical fitness forms in relation to drivers licence renewal, participation in fitness classes run by FÁS, and membership of golf clubs. [12152/07]
In making arrangements for the provision of publicly funded GP services, under the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme , an agreement was negotiated between the Department of Health and Children and the GP representative body, the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO). The provisions of this agreement took the form of the current GMS GP Capitation Contract. This contract is a treatment-based contract and gives effect to the statutory requirement to provide GP medical and surgical services without charge to eligible persons; this includes persons aged 70 and over, who are automatically entitled to a medical card. The contract stipulates that the fees paid to GMS GPs are not made in respect of certain certificates which may be required, for example, "under the Social Welfare Acts or for the purposes of insurance or assurance policies or for the issue of driving licences". As these non-treatment type services are outside the scope of the GMS GP contract, it is a matter between the GP and the person seeking the particular service to agree a fee.
While certificates for various applications are provided by medical practitioners, they are not a medical treatment service and are not considered a core aspect of public health service provision.
Care of the Elderly.
Ivor Callely
Question:163 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health and Children the level of community supports in place for older people in order to remain in their own home; if older people who have full-time carers provided by the Department of Social and Family Affairs avail of community supports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12158/07]
The development of Services for Older People is a priority for the Government. This is reflected in the funding committed to services for older people in Budgets 2006 and 2007. Last year, the Government funded the largest ever expansion in services for older people with a full year cost of €150m. This year a full year package of €255m has been allocated for services for older people. This gives a total of over €400m added to services for older people over two years. These include community supports — Home Care Packages, Home help Scheme and Respite Care.
Government policy in relation to older people is to support people to live in dignity and independence in their own homes and communities for as long as possible and, where this is not possible, to support access to quality long-term residential care. This policy approach is renewed and developed in the latest partnership agreement, Towards 2016.
In 2006 a total of 2,000 extra Home Care Packages were provided at a full year cost of €55 million (prior to this date only 1,100 packages had been in operation on a pilot basis). A similar increase in the number of packages will be provided in 2007, benefiting some 4,000 people. An additional €21 million was provided for 2007 to fund the cost of some 780,000 additional home help hours in 2007. This brings the total funding allocated to home helps to approximately €171 million per annum.
Among the areas where funding has been provided are day care and respite care which are an integral part of delivering a comprehensive community service for older people. Day care and respite care offer respite for family members and/or carers and provide social stimulation in a safe environment for older people. The provision of an additional €9 million in 2006 allowed for 1,325 additional places per week in these centres together with additional programmes for specific needs such as activity therapy. It also means that many day care centres can increase the number of days per week they open. Additional funding of €3.5 million provided in Budget 2007 will cater for a further 1,100 day places per week in day care centres.
Home Care Packages and other community based services are available following an assessment of need. Older People who have full time carers will be granted community based services if they are deemed to have a need and qualify.
Ambulance Service.
Ivor Callely
Question:164 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the provision of ambulance services in the Dublin area; her Department’s policy on ambulance emergency services; the funding available for vehicle replacement, equipment and so on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12159/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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.
Medical Cards.
Marian Harkin
Question:165 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are guidelines with regard to general practitioners charging for smear tests; if a medical card holder is entitled to a free smear test; if the medical card holder is required to pay the requested fee if the GP requests payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12162/07]
Cervical smear testing is not currently provided by GPs or family planning clinics under the scheme for medical card holders. However, where cervical smears form part of recognised protocols for the ongoing treatment of individual patient illnesses, they should be provided free of charge to eligible women under the GMS scheme. Any necessary follow-up treatment is available to all women, including medical card holders, within the public hospital system.
An effective national cervical screening programme will result in a substantial reduction in the incidence of cervical cancer. It is my objective to have such a programme rolled out, beginning, late this year, based on an affordable model. For that purpose, on 1 January 2007, I established a National Cancer Screening Service which amalgamates BreastCheck and the Irish Cervical Screening Programme. The total allocation to the new Service is €33m; this is a 71% increase on the 2006 allocation to the Programmes. This includes additional funding of €5m for 2007 to the Service to commence roll out of the Cervical Screening Programme at the end of the year.
Nursing Home Subventions.
Paul Connaughton
Question:166 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on an application for the nursing home subvention for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12163/07]
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.
Medical Cards.
Joe Costello
Question:167 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will respond to correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12166/07]
The Dental Treatment Service Scheme (DTSS) provides for a range of dental services for adult medical card holders from participating dentists holding contracts with the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The DTSS Review Group was established in May 2006 to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services provided under the DTSS. Represented on the Review Group are the HSE, the Health Service Employers Agency, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Department of Finance and the Irish Dental Association (IDA). The Group is chaired by Mr. Finbar Flood
Since the Group was established, a legal issue has arisen with regard to the Competition Act 2002 as it relates to the negotiation of professional fees. My Department has sought legal advice from the Attorney General in this regard. In the meantime, the management side has offered to continue discussions on the non-fee element of the review. The IDA has not accepted this offer.
I understand that the IDA are balloting their members on a proposal to withdraw their support from the DTSS. The existing contractual arrangements with private dental practitioners under the DTSS for the provision of dental services to eligible patients remain in place.
Health Services.
Paul Kehoe
Question:168 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Wexford will be taken into full-time care. [12178/07]
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. The Executive, therefore, 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.
Paul Kehoe
Question:169 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to the installation of a new lift and the upgrading of the ground floor to ensure that it meets fire safety standards in a hospital (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12179/07]
Paul Kehoe
Question:183 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money allocated to a hospital (details supplied) in County Wexford for the installation of a new lift and the upgrading of the ground floor to ensure that it meets fire safety standards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12285/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 and 183 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. 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.
Question No. 170 answered with QuestionNo. 107.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:171 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in the context of recently expressed concerns indicating an increase in the incidence of tuberculosis, the facilities at Peamount Hospital which were discontinued have been replaced in full at other hospitals; the full extent of such replacement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12187/07]
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.
Nursing Home Repayment Scheme.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:172 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when repayment of nursing home charges will be made in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12189/07]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.
Health Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:173 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if a portable hoist will be provided for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12190/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal 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.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:174 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare could not see a gynaecologist when they visited through accident and emergency at the Mater Hospital on 12 February 2007 despite their concern for their health and well-being; the reason in the absence of a cancellation they have to wait until 20 April 2007 for their usual check-up; if her attention has been drawn to the trauma and anxiety for patients in such circumstances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12196/07]
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.
Nursing Home Repayment Scheme.
Denis Naughten
Question:175 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason no member of the Health Service Executive has been appointed on a local basis to deal with relatives queries regarding the nursing home refund; if she will have this issue addressed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12212/07]
The Health Repayment Scheme was launched in August 2006 and is administered by the Health Service Executive (HSE) in conjunction with the appointed Scheme Administrator KPMG/ McCann Fitzgerald. A national advertising campaign also commenced on this date which included advertisements in all the main national newspapers and on national and local radio. The purpose of these advertisements is to advise residents and their families regarding their entitlement under the Health Repayment Scheme. There is also a website and an information line (1890 886 886) to assist the public with their queries and to date over 39,000 call centre queries have been received.
The HSE has also informed my Department that local HSE staff in long stay institutions have taken an active role in distributing application forms and information leaflets to the residents and/or their representatives. Application forms and information leaflets are also available through the HSE Local Health Offices and Post Offices. They also assist the resident and/or their representative in completing the application form and continue to deal with general queries in relation to the Health Repayment Scheme. Under Data Protection legislation information on specific applications can only be provided to applicants and not to third parties.
The Health Service Executive has also made applications to the Scheme Administrator in relation to residents who do not have the capacity to make the application themselves and who have no other connected person to make an application on their behalf. This will ensure that eligible residents who do not have capacity to understand the Repayment Scheme receive repayment.
Health Services.
Paddy McHugh
Question:176 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the health risks associated with the consumption of polluted water from water schemes in parts of Galway (details supplied); the involvement of her Department in investigations in this matter; the outcome of the investigations carried out to date; the measures being taken to make the water fit for human consumption; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12228/07]
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 have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Hospital Staff.
Ruairí Quinn
Question:177 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children her position on the extent to which a revised hospital consultants’ common contract should incorporate special provision for academic consultants or for an academic component in the contracts of consultants in teaching hospitals; if the historic arrangements for the division of responsibility for the payment of salaries of consultants in teaching hospitals as between the health and university sectors may be changed; her views on whether consultants with academic responsibilities in teaching hospitals should have enhanced or reduced arrangements in terms of access to private practice; if these questions feature in ongoing negotiations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12241/07]
Current Government policy supports measures to improve medical education and training and to promote research. Provisions for academic consultants will be addressed in the context of the current negotiations on new contractual arrangements for consultants. Such consultants have a specific time commitment to the education sector as well as a clinical commitment. Funding of academic consultant posts has traditionally been shared between the health and education sectors. Funding has been allocated across these sectors in 2006/2007 for an additional 25 academic clinicians.
It is also envisaged that new contractual arrangements for medical consultants, in general, will include education, training and research components. Issues relating to private practice will be dealt with in the context of the contract negotiations. Government policy is that private practice should not operate to the detriment of public patients.
Health Services.
Pat Breen
Question:178 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated with an x-ray; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12246/07]
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.
Hospital Staff.
Charlie O'Connor
Question:179 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of consultants currently employed at Tallaght Hospital; and the comparable figures for 1998 when the hospital opened. [12247/07]
Charlie O'Connor
Question:180 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of consultants currently assigned to the National Children’s Hospital at Tallaght; and the comparable figures for June 1998. [12248/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 179 and 180 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 issues raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matters investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Hospital Services.
Charlie O'Connor
Question:181 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will refer again to the issue of the National Children’s Hospital at Tallaght and confirm that there are plans to maintain and develop a first class secondary care hospital with accident and emergency for south Dublin and surrounding areas in Tallaght for children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12249/07]
The development of the National Paediatric Hospital is being overseen by a joint HSE/Department of Health and Children Transition Group. The current stage of the process involves the preparation of a high level framework brief for the new hospital. The brief is being developed for the Transition Group by Rawlinson Kelly & Whittlestone Ltd (RKW), an established UK-based health care planning company. RKW will be advising on a range of issues which will help to inform the design of the new hospital. They will be advising, for example, on the preferred model of care, on the core services to be delivered at the new hospital, and on the additional range of services to be provided outside of the main hospital through the urgent/ambulatory care service, and on the location(s) for this service, taking account of international best practice in the planning of children's hospital services. To date, no decision has been taken in relation to the range of services to be provided at the National Children's Hospital at Tallaght in the context of the development of the National Paediatric Hospital and the associated urgent/ambulatory care service. RKW is consulting widely in the course of its work, and in this context the input of all stakeholders will be of benefit in ensuring the delivery of our shared objective of providing a world-class hospital for the children of this country.
Health Services.
John Gormley
Question:182 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason repayments have not been made to a person (details supplied) in respect of wrongful charges for nursing home care of their late spouse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12253/07]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.
Question No. 183 answered with QuestionNo. 169.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:184 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in regard to the operation of the GMS dental services; if her attention has been drawn to the long standing problems whereby a tedious administration created difficulties in accessing payments which has caused serious concerns in the dental profession and a potential discrimination of services to the public who depend on the GMS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12296/07]
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.
Telecommunications Services.
Michael Ring
Question:185 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when broadband will be provided to an area (details supplied) in County Mayo. [12165/07]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband by private sector companies is a matter for the companies themselves operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. Accordingly, I have no function in the matter raised by the Deputy.
Inland Fisheries.
Denis Naughten
Question:186 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the funding spent under the National Development Plan up to the end of 2006 for the development of the angling sector; the projected spend for 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12210/07]
I am advised that the funding allocated under the Tourism and Recreational Angling Measure of the National Development Plan (2000-2006) was curtailed on foot of a decision made during 2002 in the context of other budgetary priorities. A limited number of projects were approved for funding by the Tourism Product Selection Board and expenditure of €1,219,179 was incurred towards the end of 2002.
The mid-term evaluation by the ESRI of the NDP 2000-2006 in respect of the Marine Tourism sub-measure recommended that the indicative budget for this scheme be reallocated to other priority tourism measures. As a result there was no further expenditure for the remainder of the term of the programme.
Under the new National Development Programme (2007-2013), investment in the development of the angling sector will be channelled through various NDP programmes including the Tourism Programme as well as the Marine and Coastal Communities Programme. Details of projected spend in 2007 and beyond will become available as sub-programmes are developed.
Passport Applications.
Jerry Cowley
Question:187 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is unable to get a birth certificate or a passport and wants to travel out of the country for the first time in June 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12127/07]
A birth certificate is an essential piece of documentation in order to obtain a passport. The Office of the Registrar General has responsibility for records relating to Births, Marriages and Deaths in the State.
The Department contacted the Office of the Registrar General regarding the difficulties in obtaining a birth certificate in the case in question. The Office has told us that, to enable registration of birth to take place, the Informant who is to make the declaration (i.e. the remaining family member in this case) normally attends at the Office of the Registrar in order to sign the birth register. However, in a case where the Informant is resident abroad and physically unable to travel to Ireland, the General Registrar's Office may dispense with this requirement.
It is suggested that the applicant should now contact the General Registrar's Office and explain the situation fully. Once the birth has been registered, the Passport Office will assist in issuing a passport to ensure that she may travel in June.
Swimming Pool Projects.
Paddy McHugh
Question:188 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if, further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 104 of 15 February 2007, a reply has been received from the local authority in relation to a project (details supplied); the outcome of the examination being carried out by his Department in relation to this project; when approval will be given for this project to proceed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12226/07]
Funding is provided by my Department to local authorities towards the capital costs of a new or replacement public swimming pool or the refurbishment of an existing pool under the terms of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme. Where a project is being undertaken by an organisation other than a local authority, as is the case of the project in Loughrea, the proposal must be considered, supported and submitted by the local authority. Before supporting such a project, the local authority must be satisfied that the proposal is viable, that the balance of funding required to complete the project is available and that the project when completed, would have a suitable level of public access.
In order to protect the State's interest in any such project, in the context of grant aid provided, a Deed of Covenant and Charge must be put in place between my Department, the County Council and the developer. Details of the terms of such a Deed are under discussion between my Department and Galway County Council/developer.
Sports Capital Programme.
Paul Connaughton
Question:189 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his attention has been drawn to the tremendous work that is being carried out for young people at a club (details supplied) in County Galway and the ambitious plans that this club has for extensions to the complex; the position regarding their application under the sports capital programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12271/07]
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.
Applications for funding under the 2007 programme were invited through advertisements in the Press on October 15th and 16th last. The closing date for receipt of applications was November 24th 2006. All applications received before the deadline, including one from the organisation in question, are currently being evaluated against the programme's 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. For the Deputy's information, the club in question has already been allocated a total of €400,000 from previous sports capital programmes.
Community Employment Schemes.
David Stanton
Question:190 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has placed an upper limit on the number of community employment scheme places for persons over 55 years nationally; if so, the limit in relation to same; if there is flexibility on participants of CE schemes, who are reaching retirement age but who have exhausted their time allowed on community employment schemes, to have an extension until they reach retirement age rather than having to sign on for job seekers allowance, or job seekers benefit or having to try to find employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12160/07]
Community Employment (CE) is an active labour market programme designed to provide eligible long-term unemployed people and other disadvantaged persons (including those with a disability) with an opportunity to engage in useful work within their communities on a fixed term basis. CE helps unemployed people to re-enter the active workforce by breaking their experience of unemployment through a return to a work routine and to assist them to enhance/develop both their technical and personal skills.
As part of the restructuring of CE approved in 1999, future participation in CE by an individual was capped at 3 years effective from April, 2000. This change was introduced to discourage repeated participation in CE and to encourage unemployed persons to avail of training/education options where possible, which are shown to have more successful progression outcomes for individuals. The three-year cap was amended in August 2001 to allow particularly disadvantaged persons to remain on the programme for a further period. In general, approximately 20% of participants including persons less than 55 years of age may benefit from an additional year on the programme under the flexibility guidelines introduced in August 2001. In November 2004, it was decided that the 3-year cap would be extended for CE participants aged over 55. This category of participants is now eligible to participate on CE for a maximum of 6 years.
In July 2006 my Department published its Sectoral Plan under the Disability Act, 2005. One of the key highlights of this Plan is to increase participation rates of people with disabilities on CE over the period of the Plan and to raise the CE participation limits for people with disabilities, in order to provide additional training to assist progression to employment:
For people with disabilities under 55 years of age, the participation limit has been raised by one year from 3 to 4 years
For people with disabilities over 55 years of age, the participation limit has also been raised by one year from 6 to 7 years.
I am informed by FÁS that the participation limits to which I have referred will continue to be operated flexibly at local level.
Redundancy Payments.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:191 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the way there could be no record of an application for redundancy in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin, when it is understood that a record of an appeal against a decision exists in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12194/07]
As indicated in previous replies to PQ 9319/07 dated 8th March 2007, and PQ 3052/07 of 31st January 2007, there is no record of a redundancy claim or appeal having been received in the Redundancy Section of this Department in respect of the person concerned. However, if the Deputy has evidence to the contrary I will be happy to have the matter checked out on behalf of the individual concerned.
On making an employee redundant, it is up to the employer to pay the statutory payment in the first instance.
If an employee is dissatisfied with the decision of the employer, it is open to him to appeal the decision to the Employment Appeals Tribunal. However, such an appeal must be made within 12 months of the date of termination of employment. In exceptional cases, the Employment Appeals Tribunal may allow a further delay of 12 months.
If the Deputy wishes, he may contact Ms Mary Fogarty, Redundancy Section at (01) 6313051 to discuss the matter further.
Legislative Programme.
Denis Naughten
Question:192 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to review the legislation covering friendly societies; if he will strengthen their powers to carry out investigations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12255/07]
I understand that the Deputy is referring to the Industrial and Provident Societies Acts under which cooperative societies are registered. Some specific changes have been made to that legislation, most recently in the Investment Funds, Companies and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2005.
Work is also being carried out by my Department, in consultation with the cooperative movement, in relation to the broader legislative framework which dates mainly from the 1890's. This will identify and address the need for change and up-dating of the legislative framework, including in relation to powers of investigation.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Jerry Cowley
Question:193 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo was refused supplementary welfare allowance for assistance with water supply to their property; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12128/07]
Jerry Cowley
Question:194 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in Count Mayo was refused supplementary welfare allowance in respect of an ESB security deposit; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this spina bifida sufferer, who works part time, is in receipt of disability benefit to a maximum total amount of €285 per week; if he will have this matter reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12129/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 and 194 together.
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme provides for an exceptional needs payment (ENP) to be made to assist with essential, once-off costs which the applicant is unable to meet from his/her own resources. Each application is determined by the Executive based on the particular circumstances of the case.
The HSE West has advised that the person concerned applied for two ENPs in November 2006 for connection of water supply and an ESB security deposit. At the time the person concerned was living at home with his parents and the application was made in respect of property that he had inherited from deceased family relatives.
The Community Welfare Officer asked the person concerned to provide copies of relevant legal documents that would prove ownership in addition to providing details of the property and any other capital received. The executive required this information in order to establish the means of the person concerned to determine whether an ENP payment should issue.
The person concerned provided documents relating to the deeds of the property but he did not provide documents relating to the receipt of the property and failed to fully disclose his income. The Executive has advised that it refused the claim for ENPs from the person concerned, on the basis that he failed to provide sufficient details of his income.
The person concerned was advised of his right to appeal this decision to the area appeals officer of the Executive. The Executive has advised that no appeal has been received.
Pension Provisions.
Enda Kenny
Question:195 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will assist farmers who retired before the introduction of mandatory PRSI payments in 1988; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12144/07]
Farmers, and self-employed people in general, who were already retired when compulsory social insurance was introduced for this group in 1988 cannot benefit from contributory pensions. However, it is open to those who do not qualify for a contributory pension to apply for the state pension (non-contributory). The new enhanced state pension (non-contributory) for those over 66 years, which I introduced at the end of September last year, features significant improvements in the means test. In Budget 2007 I was happy to be able to build on these improvements by increasing the basic income disregard to €30 per week (doubled for pensioner couples). Allowances are also made in the means test for capital that a person might have, with up to €20,000 disregarded. The capital allowance is doubled in the case of couples. The State pension (non-contributory) was increased by €18 per week in Budget 2007, reaching the €200 per week target set by the Government.
As the House is aware, the Government is preparing a Green Paper on pensions and it is expected that this will be finalised by the end of this month and published as soon as possible thereafter. The Green Paper will include a discussion of all aspects of our pension system including the contribution that social welfare pensions can make to ensuring an adequate income for older people in retirement which is at the same time sustainable in the long-term. The position of people who do not at present qualify for a pension will be considered in this context. Following the publication of the Green Paper, a consultation process will then take place and the Government will respond to this by publishing a framework for future pensions policy.
Michael D. Higgins
Question:196 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on, and such action as his Department will take to address, the situation whereby women who in the past were forced to retire from public jobs upon their marriage are now refused State pensions due to the fact that they have not worked sufficient weeks to qualify for such a pension, in particular the way this ruling affects a person (details supplied). [12202/07]
In order to qualify for state pension (contributory), a person must satisfy a number of qualifying conditions, namely:- have entered into insurable employment before age 56, have paid at least 260 weeks full-rate contributions paid and have a yearly average of at least 10 contributions recorded (taking paid and credited PRSI Contributions into account) from 1953 or from the date of entry into insurance (whichever is the later) to the end of the last complete contribution year before reaching pension age. A yearly average of 48 contributions is required for a maximum rate pension.
The person concerned was refused state pension (contributory) on 19th January 2006 as she does not satisfy the basic paid requirement of 260 full rate contributions.
Women who left the workforce through the operation of the marriage bar were, in the main, public servants who were never insured for social welfare pension purposes. Accordingly, any loss of pension rights in their case relates more to their occupational position rather than social welfare pension entitlements.
That said, the Government is anxious to ensure that as many people as possible can be accommodated within the social welfare pensions system, with due regard being paid to the contributory principle underlying entitlement to contributory payments and, in the case of non-contributory payments, the need to ensure that resources are directed to those who are most in need.
It is estimated that there are some 47,000 people who are not receiving a social welfare pension payment in their own right, or as a qualified adult on the pension of their spouse or partner. These are mainly former public servants and self-employed people who were close to retirement or had retired before 1988, when the self-employed were brought within the social insurance system, together with their spouses.
The issues in relation to this group will be discussed in the forthcoming Green Paper on pensions and decisions regarding pension provision for them will be made in the light of the consultation process which will follow its publication and in the framing of a long-term policy for overall pension provision. The Green Paper is nearing completion and is due to be presented to Government shortly.
Tax and Social Welfare Codes.
Ruairí Quinn
Question:197 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost to the Exchequer in terms of revenue foregone of cutting the PRSI from 4% to 2% for employees and from 3% to 2% for the self-employed; the additional revenue that would accrue from the abolition of the income ceiling for PRSI payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12243/07]
Approximately 76 per cent of workers pay PRSI Class A at the rate of 4 per cent. A further 11 per cent of workers pay social insurance contributions at the Class S rate. These contributions which are subject to various thresholds, allowances and ceilings, accrue entitlement to a range of benefits and pensions under various social insurance schemes. The current employee PRSI ceiling stands at €48,800 per annum.
It is estimated that a decrease in the employee PRSI rate from 4% to 2% would reduce Social Insurance Fund income by some €720 million in a full year. The abolition of the PRSI ceiling for ordinary employees would yield some €295 million in additional contribution income. A decrease in the self-employed PRSI rate (Class S) from 3% to 2% is estimated to cost approximately €220 million in a full year. Of course if introduced as a package, the combination of measures could give rise to a compound effect. Revisions to PRSI rates and the employee ceiling are considered annually in a budgetary context, with changes incorporated into the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act, 2005, as required.
Child Support.
Paul Kehoe
Question:198 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the allowances a grandparent who is minding their grandson full-time since January 2007 is entitled to claim to help towards the extra costs associated with same; if he will clarify what is considered as child abandonment, that is, if a mother is not in contact directly with their child; and if children allowance should continue to be paid to the mother in this context. [12293/07]
There are a number of schemes which may be available to a grandparent caring for a grandchild depending on the individual circumstances of the case. Under Social Welfare regulations Child Benefit is payable to the person with whom a qualified child normally resides. This is normally the child's mother.
However, where the mother has abandoned or deserted the child or has failed to contribute to the support of the child, the child is regarded as normally resident with the person who has care and charge of the child and Child Benefit is payable to that person. The grandparent in this case should submit a claim for Child Benefit and a decision will be made when all the relevant facts are established.
Guardian's Payment (Contributory) and Guardian's Payment (Non-Contributory) may also be payable where a parent has abandoned and has failed to provide for a child, and the other parent is unknown, or has also abandoned and failed to provide for the child, provided that the child is not normally residing with a parent, adoptive parent or step-parent.
Family Income Supplement is a weekly tax-free payment for families at work on low pay. If a grandparent is in receipt of child benefit for a child in their care and if they meet the qualifying conditions for the Family Income Supplement scheme they should submit an application for consideration.
If the grandparent to whom the question refers is in receipt of a social welfare payment, then a child dependent allowance may also be payable. If they wish to obtain further assistance in identifying any social welfare scheme that may be relevant to their particular circumstances, they should contact their Social Welfare Local Office. Information is also available from my Department's LoCall telephone enquiry line on 1890 66 22 44 from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm, Monday to Friday.
Planning Issues.
Pat Breen
Question:199 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 261 of 28 February 2007, the way the proposed public safety zones contained in the Draft Planning Guidelines differ from the previous public safety zones that were designated by the Irish Aviation Authority in its Interim Policy Document of 26 July 1995 and on which date the IAA indicated to Clare, Cork and Fingal County Councils its intention to adopt the measures set out in an attached guidance paper and also confirmed that PSZs existed as of that date at ground level under the approaches to each runway, planned runway or planned extension and that such safety zones would resemble the shape of the ICAO Annex 14, Approach Surface and extend 1,560 metres from the ends of the main runways and 1,260 metres from the ends of secondary or cross-wind runways at the three State airports; if it is now proposed to revoke the IAA Interim Policy prior to adopting the different PSZs contained in the ERM recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12154/07]
The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) has informed me that its 1995 interim policy was replaced by a Policy on Advising on Planning Applications and Appeals' issued in November 1997. This dealt with the IAA's policy for commenting on applications and appeals at that time. Future policy with regard to public safety zones will be based on Guidelines to be issued to local authorities by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government based on the ERM Report.
Open Skies Agreement.
Trevor Sargent
Question:200 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport if he will sanction the €53 million spend over five years in the economic plan put forward by the Mid-Western Regional Authority and other interests in the mid-west. [12238/07]
Trevor Sargent
Question:209 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport his plans to provide additional funding to Shannon Airport for marketing following the Open Skies agreement reached between the EU and the US. [12237/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 200 and 209 together.
I announced my intention to prepare an Economic and Tourism Development Plan for Shannon in the context of the EU-US negotiations on Open Skies when negotiators initially signed off on the text of a draft EU-US agreement in November 2005. That draft agreement provided for transitional arrangements for Ireland, relating to the phasing out of the ‘Shannon Stop'.
In preparing the Plan, my Department has consulted with the Department of Arts, Sports and Tourism, the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment and the Department of Finance. A liaison group, established by the Mid West Regional Authority, has separately prepared a report on the future development of the Shannon region as an input to the Plan. Following the endorsement of the EU-US Air Transport Agreement by the Council of Transport Ministers on 22 March I expect to be in a position to bring the Tourism and Economic Development Plan for Shannon to finalisation shortly.
It is envisaged that the EU-US Air Transport Agreement will be signed on 30 April at the EU-US Summit in Washington and will enter into force on a provisional basis from 30 March 2008. The transitional arrangements relating to Ireland entered into effect immediately following the political agreement reached at the Council of Ministers on 22 March.
Marine Accident Investigations.
John Deasy
Question:201 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Transport his intentions regarding the raising of the trawler, Pére Charles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12136/07]
The Marine Casualty Investigation Board (MCIB) is currently investigating the circumstances that led to the sinking of the Pére Charles on 10th January 2007 south of Hook Head with five crewmembers on board. The MCIB is an independent statutory body and its role is to investigate casualties such as this and to publish their findings. The MCIB will investigate all relevant matters relating to the sinking of the vessel and it is a matter for the MCIB whether or not the vessel needs to be lifted to facilitate their investigation.
Driving Licences.
Paul Kehoe
Question:202 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Transport the numbers of persons (details supplied) who were provisional licence holders and full licence holders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12137/07]
Statistics relating to road accidents, based on information provided by the Garda Síochána, are published by the National Roads Authority (NRA) in their annual Road Accident Facts reports. The most recent report, now entitled Road Collision Facts, relates to 2004. That report along with reports relating to previous years are available in the Oireachtas Library and on the NRA website.
The reports contain a detailed analysis of the collisions which occurred during a particular year, but do not contain details of the licence status of drivers involved in collisions.
Responsibility for the collection of structured information on road safety, including the publication of the annual Road Collision Facts Report, now lies with the newly established Road Safety Authority. I understand that the statistics relating to 2005 are currently being analysed and authenticated in preparation for publication.
Services for People with Disabilities.
Olivia Mitchell
Question:203 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the principle means by which he will make public transport more accessible for persons with disabilities; the measures he proposes for those who can not access existing public transport services, but may require more specialist transport services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12146/07]
My Department's Sectoral Plan under the Disability Act 2005, titled ‘Transport Access for All', has been finalised and published. The Plan addresses the accessibility needs of people with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairments across all transport modes and contains time bound targets for the progressive realisation of accessible transport in Ireland. In general, the timescales for the various elements of the Plan are expected to be completed within the timeframe of Transport 21. The Plan was prepared following an extensive consultation exercise involving meetings and discussions with transport providers together with a wide range of groups in the disability sector. It was passed by the Oireachtas in October 2006 enabling it to take effect.
Measures to implement ‘Transport Access for All' are already well advanced. Since the year 2000, 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.
Significant resources for accessibility are being provided under Transport 21 to facilitate further progress. Accessibility is being built into new public transport infrastructure projects and funding is also being provided to continue the phased retrofit of existing infrastructure. Transport 21 has been endorsed by the recently published National Development Plan 2007-2013.
Unfortunately, some people, because of the nature of their disabilities, will not be able to travel on public transport. In such cases, specialised non-public transport door-to-door services are the most appropriate complementary form of transport. Such services are generally provided by specialist agencies which do not form part of the public transport sector for which my Department has statutory responsibility.
Planning Issues.
Pat Breen
Question:204 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 271 of 12 October 2004 in which he stated that his Department does not appeal planning applications in the vicinity of airport runways, the reason his Department objected on 20 December 1988 to a planning application (details supplied); if his Department ever objected to any other similar planning application at Dublin, Cork or Shannon airports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12155/07]
The Air Navigation and Transport (Amendment) Act 1998 assigned certain functions to Aer Rianta (now the Dublin Airport Authority) that were formerly the responsibility of the Minister for Transport. These included planning submissions. I am informed by the Dublin Airport Authority that the application referred to in PQ 24360/04 was made in 2003 and accordingly planning submissions were made by Aer Rianta.
In 1988, prior to the 1998 Act, submissions regarding developments in red (safety) areas at Dublin, Cork or Shannon airports were made by the then Department of Transport. For the application which the Deputy refers to, P8/25817, objection was made to the proposal due to its location within the red (safety) area of the approach to Runway 13 at Shannon Airport.
Railway Stations.
Willie Penrose
Question:205 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Transport the position, in relation to the feasibility study undertaken by Iarnród Éireann and Westmeath County Council, in relation to the reopening of railway stations at Kilucan and the Hill of Down; the progress to date in relation to the campaign for the reopening of these; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12176/07]
The location of stations on the railway network and decisions relating to the reopening of stations, including those referred to by the Deputy, are operational matters for Iarnród Éireann.
Rail Network.
Denis Naughten
Question:206 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport the timetable for re-opening each section of the western rail corridor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12184/07]
Transport 21 provides for the re-opening of the Western Rail Corridor between Ennis and Claremorris on a phased basis. The Ennis to Athenry section is to be completed in 2008, the Athenry to Tuam section in 2011 and the Tuam to Claremorris section in 2014. I am informed by Iarnród Éireann that preparatory work is underway on the Ennis/Athenry section with a view to commencement of track upgrade work later this year and completion of the section in 2008.
Denis Naughten
Question:207 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Transport his plans to re-open the Athlone Mullingar rail line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12185/07]
A report by the Midland Railway Action group regarding the reopening of the Athlone to Mullingar railway line is being considered by my Department and Iarnród Éireann.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:208 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport if, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 98 and 157 of 21 February 2007, where he stated that 15 miles of track between Limerick and Ballybrophy have been re-laid since 2004, his attention has been drawn to the fact that, despite this, there has been no improvement in journey times between the two points and that a permanent speed restriction of 25 mph continues to exist over the section of re-laid track; his plans to improve line speeds and journey times between Limerick and Ballybrophy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12203/07]
As I indicated in my reply to PQ Nos. 98 and 157 of 21 February 2007, the Limerick/Ballybrophy line is currently benefiting from a continuing programme of track renewal and level crossing works to enable the speed limits on the route to be raised. I understand from Iarnród Éireann that at present, 12 miles of the route, out of a total of 53 miles, is subject to a speed restriction of 25mph but that part of the speed restriction will be removed during 2007
Question No. 209 answered with QuestionNo. 200.
Rail Services.
David Stanton
Question:210 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Transport further to Question No. 210 of 8 March 2007, if he has made a decision on the railway order application; if he has not signed the railway order, the reason for not having done so; when he expects to sign the order; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12264/07]
I have decided to grant the Railway Order for the Glounthaune to Midleton Rail Project, in line with the recommendations of the Inspector to the Public Inquiry into the project.
Community Development.
Jim O'Keeffe
Question:211 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the withdrawal of funding from a society (details supplied) means that there is no support facility on the island for community projects and in particular for the DIT degree course in the community centre; and if he will arrange to provide the necessary funding at this stage. [12272/07]
I have previously advised the Deputy that funding for the Society in question was withdrawn in 2004. Since then, my Department has provided funding to support the validation process for the degree programme on the island. I have also advised the Deputy that a process is under way to achieve simplified local delivery structures with improved coverage and levels of service locally. Any future development supports and associated resources from my Department for the island will be considered in light of the outcome of this process.
Grant Payments.
Paul McGrath
Question:212 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath has had their single payment reduced by half; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12120/07]
An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 26 April 2006. The payments, which issued to the person named on foot of this application, were reduced following the recoupment of overpayments, which had arisen under the Livestock Premia Schemes. While the person named had previously been notified of these overpayments, I have had arrangements made to have a further letter issued to him outlining in detail the areas where the overpayments arose and the reasons for same.
Farm Retirement Scheme.
Beverley Flynn
Question:213 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in receipt of farm retirement payments from 1995 to 2004 is entitled to the increase announced by her on 1 November 2006. [12140/07]
I announced last November, that the maximum pension payable under the 1994-1999 Early Retirement Scheme was being increased from €12,075 to €14,075 per annum. This increase was payable to active Scheme participants with effect from 1 November 2006. As the person named finished his participation in the Scheme on 2 September 2004, he will unfortunately not benefit from the increase.
Grant Payments.
Beverley Flynn
Question:214 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive payments. [12141/07]
As indicated in response to previous enquiries about this case, the records of the animals from the herd number of the person named submitted under the 2001 Suckler Cow Premium Scheme, the 2002 Slaughter Premium Scheme and the 2003 Special Beef Premium Scheme, required to be examined with a view to identifying what animals, if any, might be eligible for payment. Eligibility under these Schemes required, inter alia, that the animals concerned comply with the relevant identification and registration requirements. This examination has now been completed and the person named is being written to formally, outlining the results of these enquiries. The person named will be entitled to appeal this decision, should he be dissatisfied with the outcome.
Assisted Animal Reproduction.
Denis Naughten
Question:215 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if her Department has fully complied with the EU FVO ban on the use of New Zealand semen; if she has satisfied herself that there is no New Zealand semen in circulation in this country at present; the steps she is taking to eradicate the risk of the spread of IBR through semen; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12205/07]
The European Commission, following shortcomings identified on an FVO mission to New Zealand, instructed Member States to remove specific bovine semen consignments imported from New Zealand after 9th March 2004 from EU approved semen collection and storage centres and also instructed that these consignments were not to be traded within the Community. My Department took measures to ensure that all remaining semen that was identified in this communication has been dealt with in accordance with the instruction issued by the Commission. Not all of the semen present in centres in Ireland originating in New Zealand has been affected by this instruction — some semen (e.g. semen imported prior to 9th March 2004) is available for trade. My Department is in ongoing communication with the relevant New Zealand authorities as to the health status of all of the detained semen. The information received to date indicates the risk of spread of IBR through the detained semen (semen imported after 9th March 2004) is negligible. This semen was collected prior to 31st December 2004 from bulls, which were vaccinated in accordance with the relevant EU legislation (Council Directive 88/407/EEC) and not from bulls, which were naturally infected with IBR. Since 1st January 2005 my Department has required that all bulls entering EU approved AI centres must test negative for IBR in accordance with EU legislation.
Grant Payments.
Denis Naughten
Question:216 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of applicants under the installation aid scheme in each of the past 10 years; the maximum payment allowed under EU rules; the plans she has to increase the rate from the present €15,000; when the new scheme will be available to applicants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12208/07]
The following is the information requested by the Deputy.
|
1996 |
1,167 |
|
1997 |
1,251 |
|
1998 |
607 |
|
1999 |
834 |
|
2000 |
463 |
|
2001 |
357 |
|
2002 |
578 |
|
2003 |
986 |
|
2004 |
767 |
|
2005 |
557 |
|
2006 |
614 |
The maximum payment allowed under EU Regulation was €25,000.
The 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme provides for the continuation of an Installation Aid Scheme for young farmers with an increased grant rate of €15,000 per eligible applicant. The terms of the Scheme will be established as soon as EU approval is received for the Programme.
Turbary Rights.
Michael Ring
Question:217 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position of the case of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [12256/07]
The position in this case has just recently advanced since my answer to Question No. 248 of 7 March 2007, in that the two parties to this matter appear to have reached an agreement which was required to resolve the access problem. My officials will now liaise with the parties and hopefully resolve the title issues in the near future.
Educational Disadvantage.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:218 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in re-establishing a new Education Disadvantage Committee as provided for in Section 32 of the Education Act 1998, in view of the fact that in early 2006 her Department was in contact with relevant interests regarding the role and remit of a new committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12121/07]
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Question:219 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science when she will re-establish the education disadvantage committee as provided for in Section 32 of the Education Act 1998; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12122/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 218 and 219 together.
The role of the Educational Disadvantage Committee is to advise on policies and strategies to be adopted to identify and correct educational disadvantage.
My Department wrote to the education and social partners seeking their views on the composition and future work of the committee. Following on full consideration of these views, the members of the new committee will be appointed as provided for under section 32 of the Education Act, 1998.
Under section 32 (3) of the Act, up to half of the membership of the committee shall be appointed from nominees of such voluntary and other bodies which have objects that are considered relevant to the work of the committee.
School Enrolments.
Gay Mitchell
Question:220 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will provide a school place for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12123/07]
Enrolment decisions are the responsibility of the Board of Management of each individual school. My Department has no role in relation to processing applications for enrolment by schools.
Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, provides parents with an appeal process where a Board of Management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the Board refuses enrolment to a student. Where a school refuses to enrol a pupil, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision to the Secretary General of my Department. Where an appeal under Section 29 is upheld, the Secretary General of my Department may direct a school to enrol a pupil.
The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child.
I have been informed by the NEWB that the mother applied for Home Education Assessment which was carried out in November 2006. The child was then registered as being in receipt of Home Education. Following on from this the mother subsequently contacted the NEWB with regard to finding a school place for her child and an Educational Welfare Officer will assist her with sourcing a suitable placement in a school.
Psychological Service.
Pat Breen
Question:221 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to expand counselling services in post-primary schools to provide support for students with personal or mental health difficulties; the options schools have when their guidance counsellors do not have the skills set for dealing with such issues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12147/07]
All post-primary schools receive ex-quota hours from my Department for the provision of a guidance and counselling service to students. The service is delivered in the majority of schools by guidance counsellors who are qualified to provide counselling support to students. Schools can also use additional resources provided by my Department under various initiatives to buy in the services of a qualified counsellor/psychotherapist if they consider this necessary to meet students' needs. For example, schools participating in Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS), the School Completion Programme and the Guidance Enhancement Initiative (GEI) can, and do, use some of the resources received under these initiatives to buy in counselling services.
In cases where a student requires support of a specialist nature, guidance counsellors should arrange a referral to an appropriate outside agency. Procedures for the referral of students to an outside agency should be included in the school plan of each post-primary school. Guidance counsellors can consult with an assigned psychologist from the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) with regard to individual cases, especially in relation to referral to an outside agency.
In the event of a critical incident, psychologists from NEPS are available to meet with individuals or groups of students over a short period of time. In some circumstances, psychologists from NEPS can engage with individual students for a number of counselling sessions when pertinent issues arise during a psychological assessment.
My Department provides funding to the Institute of Guidance Counsellors (IGC) for a programme of professional supervision for its members. In its first year, 75% of guidance counsellors participated in this programme which is operated through education centres on a national basis. Approximately 60 qualified counsellors provide support and advice on a range of counselling and mental health issues to the guidance counsellors who are participating in the programme. In addition, my Department provides funding to each of the sixteen branches of the Institute of Guidance Counsellors to support the provision of continuous professional development for the members of each branch.
Schools Building Projects.
Paul Kehoe
Question:222 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for a general purpose room for a school (details supplied) in County Wexford; when work will begin on this project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12148/07]
I can confirm to the Deputy that the school to which he refers has applied to the Department for capital funding for an extension project. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building works and has been assigned a Band 4 rating. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation programme.
Special Educational Needs.
Emmet Stagg
Question:223 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 835 of 20 March 2007, the reason SENOs are not allowed to assist in applications for resource teaching hours, applications for special needs assistants, applications for school transport for children with disabilities with special educational needs and applications for assistive technology, in the school in question; if she will review this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12149/07]
As I previously advised the Deputy a pilot scheme funded directly through my Department has facilitated the establishment of a number of stand-alone autism units using the Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) methodology. The unit referred to by the Deputy is participating in this scheme. Resource and staffing issues associated with the scheme are sanctioned directly by my Department.
The Deputy will be that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has a key role in the delivery of services and operates through a network of Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) who act as a focal point of contact for schools and parents. SENOs provide a service to parents of children attending units participating in the pilot scheme to which the Deputy refers by providing information on a range of issues including appropriate educational placements available on completion of a period in the ABA units.
Schools Building Projects.
Olwyn Enright
Question:224 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to an application by a school (details supplied) in County Cork for a new building; the position regarding the application; the reason for the delay in announcing the new school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12168/07]
The long term accommodation needs of the school referred to by the Deputy has been determined as 12 mainstream classrooms plus appropriate ancillary accommodation and the school authority have been notified of same. The building project required to deliver the school accommodation is being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Site Acquisitions.
Michael Noonan
Question:225 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will assist a gaelscoil (details supplied) in County Limerick to acquire a permanent site; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12170/07]
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:233 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made in the procurement of a site for a school (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12198/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 225 and 233 together.
The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works (OPW) which acts generally on behalf of my Department on the acquisition of sites for schools, has been requested to source a suitable site for this Gaelscoil. A number of proposals were received by OPW. A technical assessment of these proposals has been carried out and the report is currently under consideration within my Department. My Department has, however, reverted to the OPW requesting additional information which will require further consultation with the Local Authority.
When a suitable site has been secured the project will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme and the National Development Plan.
Educational Disadvantage.
Michael Noonan
Question:226 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to an application by a school (details supplied) in County Limerick for a grant under the dormant accounts education disadvantage and rapid leverage fund for much needed facilities at the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12171/07]
The application referred to by the Deputy is one of a large number of applications for the scheme received by the Midland Regional Office of my Department. These applications are currently being logged and acknowledged. Once this process is complete, my officials will start the process of assessing and ranking the applications. In keeping with the requirements of the Dormant Accounts Fund legislation, the assessed applications will be considered by the Inter-Departmental Committee on Educational Disadvantage, who will make recommendations to the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. Minister Ó Cuív will then submit the list of recommendations to the Government for approval. Funding for approved projects will be channelled through my Department's Vote.
I cannot give an exact date of when the list of successful applicants will be announced, however, I hope to be able to make this announcement before the schools break for the summer holidays.
School Services Staff.
Michael Noonan
Question:227 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will sanction the appointment of a full-time caretaker to a school (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12172/07]
My Department provides funding towards the cost of secretarial and caretaking services in primary schools under two separate schemes. One scheme is the 1978/79 scheme for the employment of full-time secretaries and caretakers in primary schools, under which my Department meets the full cost of salary. This scheme is being phased out as posts become vacant and no new posts are being created. This scheme has been superseded by a more extensive grant scheme now referred to as the Ancillary Services grant.
The Ancillary Services grant provides additional funding for primary schools towards the cost of secretarial and caretaking services. The scheme is flexible in nature, giving Boards of Management discretion as to the manner in which secretarial and caretaking services are provided. The school referred to by the Deputy receives caretaking grant assistance under this scheme.
Schools that have the services of a secretary under the 1978/79 scheme, as is the case of the school referred to by the Deputy, the level of Ancillary Services grant per pupil is equivalent to half of the standard rate of grant.
There have been significant improvements in the level of funding provided to primary schools in recent years. Since 1997 the standard rate of the Ancillary Services grant has increased from €38.09 per pupil to €145.50 per pupil at present. The level of capitation grant at primary level has increased from €57.14 to €163.58 per pupil in the same period. These significant increases in the funding of primary schools are a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of primary schools.
Schools Building Projects.
Willie Penrose
Question:228 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will take steps to renew a decision made by her Department to refuse an application under the summer works grant scheme by a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath; if the summer works scheme grant will be allocated to the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12173/07]
The list of successful applicants under the Summer Works Scheme for 2007 was announced in January of this year. Unfortunately, due to the number of applicants it was not possible to approve all applications received. It is open to the school authority to re-apply for funding under the Summer Works Scheme for 2008 details of which will be announced later this year.
It is also open to the school authority to use its annual Minor Works Grant for the works in question provided it is not required for more urgent works.
Decentralisation Programme.
Willie Penrose
Question:229 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the position of the decentralisation plans by her Department to decentralise 300 personnel to Mullingar; if a site has been acquired to allow same to progress; if an advance party of 90 to 100 will be allowed to come to Mullingar to temporary accommodation in order to commence the process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12174/07]
I understand that the Office of Public Works, which is charged with procuring accommodation for the programme of decentralisation, has signed a contract in respect of a suitable site in Mullingar which will accommodate the decentralisation of 300 posts in my Department.
As I have previously stated, I will keep the feasibility of sending a smaller number of posts to Mullingar in advance of the main decentralisation under review. However, I must do this in the context of the potential impact of an accelerated rate of decentralisation on the business of my Department, particularly as the other element of the decentralisation of my Department, the relocation of 100 posts to Athlone, will happen next year.
School Staffing.
Paudge Connolly
Question:230 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason it is proposed to terminate the employment of the eighth assistant teacher in a school (details supplied) in County Monaghan from September 2007; if she has taken extenuating circumstances into account; if she has considered the class amalgamations that will ensue from the loss of the teacher resulting in several multiple classes with enrolments exceeding best practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12177/07]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30th September of the previous school year. The actual number of mainstream posts sanctioned is determined by reference to a staffing schedule which is issued to all primary schools each year.
Data submitted to my Department by the Board of Management of the school referred to by the Deputy, indicates that the enrolment in the school on 30th September 2005 was 217 pupils. In accordance with the staffing schedule (Circular 0023/2006), which is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie, the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2006/07 school year is a Principal and 8 mainstream class teachers.
According to data submitted to my Department by the Board of Management, the enrolment in the school on 30th September 2006 was 206 pupils. In accordance with the staffing schedule (Circular 0020/2007), which is also available on my Department's website and a hard copy of which will be issued to all primary schools shortly, the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2007/08 school year will be a Principal and 8 mainstream class teachers.
There will, therefore, be no reduction in the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2007/08 school year as compared to the current school year.
Boards of Management.
Bernard J. Durkan
Question:231 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the full implications of her recent indication to the effect that school boards of management were legally accountable for matters appertaining to the running of operations and incidents that may take place on the school premises; if this refers to all health and safety features arising from overcrowding where such overcrowding is caused by failure of her Department to provide the necessary funds to alleviate overcrowding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12186/07]
Individual school authorities are responsible in the first instance for health and safety issues at schools and it is the responsibility of school management authorities to have a safety statement in place in their schools. Schools are obliged to identify possible hazards, assess the risks to health and safety and to put appropriate safeguards in place to mitigate the potential risk to the school community.
It is open to any school to apply to my Department for additional accommodation to meet its needs. All applications for capital funding are assessed in accordance with the Department's published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects which were drawn up following consultation with the education partners. Following this assessment, each application is assigned a band rating. Progress on individual projects is consistent with that band rating.
It is also open to school management, where an immediate need for additional accommodation exists, to apply for the provision of temporary rented accommodation while awaiting the provision of permanent accommodation. Provision is built into the School Building and modernisation Programme to enable schools address urgent health and safety problems. In this regard, primary schools are given an annual allocation under the grant scheme for minor works which can be used entirely at the discretion of school management to address basic health and safety issues relating to school infrastructure.
My Department has invested in a record school building programme which between 2000 and 2006 involved the delivery of over 7,800 projects with an investment of €2.6 billion. The budget for 2007, at over €540m, is the first year of the roll-out of the new NDP which will involve an investment of over €4.5 billion in school buildings over the next 7 years. This multi-annual funding will enable my Department to continue to take a proactive approach to the provision of modern school accommodation having particular regard to the needs of developing areas.
School Closures.
Paddy McHugh
Question:232 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science if she or her officials are in consultations or discussions with the patron body of a school (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12197/07]
The Trustees of the school referred to by the Deputy have confirmed their intention to close the school on a phased basis. As the Deputy may be aware, this school is a voluntary secondary school and the decision to withdraw as providers of education is within the remit of the Patron body, that is the Sisters of Mercy.
The Department has been informed by the Sisters of Mercy that the phased closure will commence in September 2007 with no intake of first year students and all junior cycle pupils will be given the option of proceeding to the senior cycle including the opportunity to avail of a transition year.
The Deputy should note that the existing site and school buildings are not in the ownership of the Department. The Trustees have recently reaffirmed to the Department that the current site will not be available for the provision of post-primary education once the school closes.
Having considered the immediate implications of the decision by the Sisters of Mercy, I can confirm that the Department will facilitate the enrolment in the neighbouring Community School of students from the area in question by amending the existing catchment area to allow girls from the Kinvara area attend Gort Community School.
Question No. 233 answered with QuestionNo. 225.
School Accommodation.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:234 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the way she will reduce class size in a school (details supplied) in County Wexford to under 30 students per class, if there are proposals to extend the school in the next five years; the annual cost of the two prefabs currently used by the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12199/07]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30th September of the previous school year. The actual number of mainstream posts sanctioned is determined by reference to a staffing schedule which is issued to all primary schools each year.
Data submitted to my Department by the Board of Management of the school referred to by the Deputy indicate that the enrolment in the school on 30th September 2005 was 100 pupils. In accordance with the staffing schedule (Circular 0023/2006), which is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie, the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2006/07 school year is a Principal and 3 mainstream class teachers.
According to data submitted to my Department by the Board of Management of the school, the enrolment in the school on 30th September 2006 was 115 pupils. In accordance with the staffing schedule (Circular 0020/2007), which is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie and a hard copy of which will be issued to all primary schools shortly, the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2007/08 school year will be a Principal and 4 mainstream class teachers.
Within the terms of the staffing arrangements for primary schools there is provision for additional posts, referred to as developing school posts, to be assigned to schools on the basis of projected enrolments for the next school year. Under these arrangements, a developing school post may be sanctioned provisionally where the projected enrolment at 30th September of the school year in question equals or exceeds a specified figure. If the specified figure is not achieved on 30th September, sanction for the post is withdrawn.
It is open to the Board of Management to submit an appeal under certain criteria to an independent Appeal Board which was established to adjudicate on appeals on mainstream staffing allocations in primary schools. Details of the criteria and application dates for appeal are contained in the staffing schedule. They are also available in Circular 0024/2007 (Appeal Board for Mainstream Staffing in Primary Schools) which is available on my Department's website. Hard copies of this circular will issue to primary schools as soon as possible.
It is proposed that the first meeting of the Appeal Board will be held on 22 May, 2007. Further meetings will be held in July and October, 2007. The closing dates for receipt of appeals are 11 May, 22 June and 12 October respectively. Appeals must be submitted to Primary Payments Section, Department of Education and Science, Athlone, on the standard application form, clearly stating the criterion under which the appeal is being made. The standard application form is available from Primary Payments Section or on my Department's website.
The Appeal Board operates independently of the Minister and my Department and its decision is final. I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the operation of the independent Appeal Board.
The school to which the Deputy refers has an application for additional accommodation with the Department. The project will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation programme. The Department is not currently expending any finances on rented accommodation at the school.
Schools Building Projects.
Denis Naughten
Question:235 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for a school (details supplied) in County Roscommon; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12204/07]
A suitable site has been acquired by the Office of Public Works on behalf of the Department for this project. The long term projected staffing, on which the accommodation needs will be based, has been determined. The building project required to deliver the new school will be progressed in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.
School Transport.
Denis Naughten
Question:236 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 404 and 406 of 22 November 2006, if she has completed the review of the provision of a school transport service; if she will ensure that parents are made aware of this decision as soon as possible in view of the fact that incoming first year students are already enrolled in post-primary schools in Athlone; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12206/07]
My predecessor agreed to sanction the continuance of the existing transport arrangements, referred to by the Deputy, for the current school year. The relevant Transport Liaison Officers and families concerned will be notified of any change in these arrangements in advance of the next school year.
Schools Amalgamation.
Denis Naughten
Question:237 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 220 of 22 March 2007, the dates of such meetings and the schools represented at such meetings; if there was a suggestion or offer at such meetings of any property being offered for sale to her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12207/07]
Officials from the Department have facilitated preliminary discussions between the Trustees of the schools involved in a possible amalgamation. On 5 May, 2006, an initial meeting was held by officials from School Planning Section of the Department with the Trustees of two of the schools in question. A further meeting was facilitated on 30 June 2006 between the Trustees of all three schools involved in a potential amalgamation. At these meetings, the Trustees outlined details of their preliminary proposals on amalgamating the schools. The Department has no record of an offer to sell property at these meetings.
To date, no formal proposal to rationalise post primary education provision has been received from the Trustees of the schools by the Department.
Schools Building Projects.
Denis Naughten
Question:238 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of a post-primary application for a school (details supplied) in County Leitrim with her building section; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12211/07]
The proposed extension project at Lough Allen College was one of 80 projects I announced in November last to proceed into architectural planning. A site visit has been arranged with the VEC and school authorities to inform the final brief for the project. On completion of the brief, the progression of the project will be considered further in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Drumshambo Vocational School has been invited to participate in the 2007 Permanent Accommodation Scheme to provide additional accommodation at the school. This Scheme allows schools to proceed with small scale permanent building projects with minimum interaction with the Department.
The proposed extension project at Carrigallen Vocational School has been assessed and assigned a band rating in accordance with the revised prioritisation criteria. The progression of this project will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Carrigallen Vocational School also submitted an application under the Permanent Accommodation Scheme 2007 for additional accommodation. On 5 March 2007, I announced details of the schools to receive funding under this Scheme. Due to the volume of applications received in the Department it was not possible to allocate funding to all proposed projects and the school referred to by the Deputy was not successful in this instance.
Youth Services.
Pat Carey
Question:239 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if arising from Parliamentary Question No. 1230 of 27 September 2006 she is giving consideration to the provision of a youth information facility for the Ballymun and Finglas area in view of the demand there has been from youth service providers for such centres and the positive outcomes achieved by such centres elsewhere in the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12223/07]
The position is as outlined in the reply of 27th September 2006.
A review of the provision of youth information facilities has recently been completed and the report falls to be considered by the National Youth Work Advisory Committee (NYWAC) and by my Department. The report has been referred to the steering committee in advance of being considered by NYWAC and my Department. I expect that process will take some time and I await the outcome.
Physical Education Facilities.
Gay Mitchell
Question:240 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will ensure that adequate sport facilities are provided for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12224/07]
I can confirm to the Deputy that an application for a sports hall has been received from the school to which he refers. This application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and has been assigned a band 4 rating. Progress on the proposed works will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation programme.
Schools Building Projects.
Paddy McHugh
Question:241 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science further to her reply to Parliamentary Question No. 485 of 6 February 2007, if the transfer of a school site (details supplied) in County Galway to her Department has been completed; the next stage in this project; when it is expected construction of the school will commence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12227/07]
Following a detailed assessment of the school's long term accommodation needs, a decision was taken to provide a new six classroom school. The acquisition of the site adjoining the school has concluded and at present the transfer of the existing school site to the Minister is ongoing. The school building project will be considered for progression in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
School Accommodation.
Paddy McHugh
Question:242 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to an application from a school (details supplied) in County Galway for additional accommodation and upgrading; the priority this project has in her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12229/07]
An application for an extension has been received from the school to which the Deputy refers. An assessment of projected enrolments, demographic trends and housing developments in the area, is currently underway in the Department which will assist in determining the long term projected enrolment for the school on which the school's long term accommodation needs will be based. When the longterm projected enrolment has been finalised and agreed with the school authorities the Department will draw up schedules of accommodation for the project which will be notified to the school management authority. The project will then be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Schools Building Projects.
Paddy McHugh
Question:243 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the time frame for the provision of a new school at a location (details supplied) in County Galway; if a site has been acquired; if a schedule of accommodation has been agreed; the priority this project has in her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12230/07]
The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works (OPW) which acts generally on behalf of my Department in the acquisition of school sites, has been requested to source a suitable site for this school. On foot of advertising a number of proposals were received which have been examined by the OPW. The OPW are presently awaiting the observations and comments from the County Council on the preferred options. The assessment of the long term projected staffing, on which the schools accommodation needs are based is being finalised at present. When the long term projection has been determined and agreed with the school authorities and the site acquisition completed, the building project will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation programme.
Irish Language.
Ruairí Quinn
Question:244 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the arrangements in place to ensure the discharge by universities of their statutory obligation, under section 12 (e) of the Universities Act 1997, to promote both of the official languages of the State with special regard to the preservation, promotion and use of the Irish language and the preservation and promotion of the distinctive cultures of Ireland; if she monitors the courses of study and research promoted by the various universities to facilitate this objective in this regard; if she was consulted on or gave a view on the abandonment by University College Dublin of its course in old Irish; her views on whether that course of action is compatible with UCD’s statutory obligations and its distinctive record as one of the premier universities in the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12242/07]
All universities have established structures in place to ensure the discharge of their statutory obligations relating to the promotion of Irish. These generally comprise Irish committees which are set-up as sub-committees of the governing body or which report directly to the university President.
Universities are autonomous institutions and I have no function in relation to their day today operational affairs. Decisions on programme provision are made by the universities themselves. The provision of Irish studies in the university sector remains extensive. This includes a broad range of Irish language studies in UCD and a range of Irish studies qualifications in Trinity College, including an undergraduate honours degree in Early and Modern Irish. Other examples include programmes provided through the Department of Early and Medieval Irish in UCC and the very extensive range of Irish studies provided in NUI Galway. Funding, amounting to €1.17 million in 2006, is provided to the universities, colleges of education and NCAD under the Irish Strategic Initiative, managed by the Higher Education Authority. The fund aims to support the teaching of subjects, other than Irish, through the medium of Irish and the development of the use of Irish by both students and staff on the university campus. This fund is distinct from the core funding provided to Universities at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Institutions are required to report to the Authority annually on the activities supported under the Initiative.
School Transport.
Michael Ring
Question:245 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the guidelines in relation to the waiting time for students (details supplied) in County Mayo. [12258/07]
Bus Éireann which operates the school transport service on behalf of my Department has advised that the level of service to the school referred to by the Deputy, in the details supplied, has not changed or been downgraded over the last number of years. In general a school transport service is organised to ensure the maximum travel and waiting time does not exceed 2.5 hours. The school transport service referred to by the Deputy, in the details supplied, is operating within the guidelines of the school transport scheme.
Site Acquisitions.
Denis Naughten
Question:246 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has obtained a site for a school (details supplied) in County Roscommon; the status of the application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12261/07]
The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works (OPW), which acts on behalf of my Department on the acquisition of sites for schools, has been requested to source a suitable site for this Gaelscoil. On foot of advertising, a number of proposals were received. Preliminary assessments have been carried out on all the proposed sites. The OPW are presently awaiting the observations and comments from the Local Authority on the preferred options.
When a suitable site has been secured the project will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme and the National Development Plan.
Departmental Funding.
Michael Ring
Question:247 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will provide funding for the ongoing work that is being carried out in respect of a group (details supplied) in County Mayo. [12262/07]
The Youth Affairs Section of my Department has received an application for funding on behalf of the project in question. This application was submitted for consideration in the 2007 round of grants under the Special Projects for Youth Scheme.
Funding allocations for 2007 are currently being examined by my Department and consideration will be given to this application in light of available financial resources, existing commitments in the youth sector and other applications. My Department's objective is to finalise decisions on such applications before the end of Spring.
School Accommodation.
David Stanton
Question:248 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 56 of 22 March 2007, the funding her Department is making available to provide additional primary school places as outlined in the special local area plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12263/07]
Applications for additional accommodation, whether for new schools or extensions to existing school buildings are assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria which was compiled following consultation with the Education Partners. Each project is assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects is considered in the context of the multi annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
School Transport.
Paul Kehoe
Question:249 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science when the independent inspector will be appointed to carry out the review of school transport in County Wexford. [12273/07]
My Department will be arranging for an independent examination of the maps used to determine eligibility for transport in specific catchment areas in County Wexford to be conducted and completed as soon as possible.
School Libraries.
Gay Mitchell
Question:250 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the proposal by the National Parents Council for parent resource libraries in all primary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12274/07]
I am not aware of any submission from the National Parents Council regarding the provision of parent resource libraries in primary schools.
With regard to libraries generally my Department provides for library/resource areas in the design of primary school buildings. It is a matter for each Local Authority to provide a library service for schools in its area. While my Department has no involvement in the actual operation of this service, it does make a grant available to each Local Authority on an annual basis to enable Local Authority Librarians select, purchase, and deliver books to the primary schools in its area. The grant is based on the number of pupils enrolled in primary schools in each Local Authority area. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the estimates provision in respect of library grants has been increased from €1.5 million in 2004 to €2.118 million in 2007, an increase of more then 40% since 2004.
School managements may also use their normal school budgets for the stocking of school libraries.
On 17 January last my Department invited applications under the Dormant Accounts (Educational Disadvantage) and RAPID Leverage Fund — Small Scale Capital Grant Scheme for Schools. A total of €18 million has been made available to my Department from these funds for approved projects that aim to counteract educational disadvantage. The scheme will provide capital grants for both the enhancement of existing and the provision of new outdoor play areas, school libraries, dining areas and parent rooms. Eligible schools include schools participating in DEIS, schools in or serving RAPID areas and Special Schools.
Having regard to the school libraries measure of the scheme, it is primarily to provide for the enhancement of school library facilities via either the upgrading of existing library facilities or the development of new school library facilities. Eligible activities include the provision of library stock, ICT equipment, fixtures and fittings and the construction and fit out of a new school library. Priority will be given to projects that enhance existing facilities rather than the construction of new facilities.
In general in newly developing areas the School Planning Section of my Department is working proactively with local authorities to explore the possibility of the development of school provision in tandem with the development of community facilities. This enhanced cooperation has the effect of providing local communities with new schools with enhanced community facilities.
My Department recently entered into a partnership approach with Fingal County Council whereby the Council will identify and acquire appropriate sites where schools with enhanced sporting, community and arts facilities will be built to the benefit of both the school and the wider community. It is hoped that this agreement will help to fast-track the delivery of schools and community facilities throughout Fingal.
A further example is in the case of the Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) at Adamstown, Lucan where the Department is working closely with South Dublin County Council and the developers to produce an integrated solution to education and community facilities that matches the delivery of new housing. Under the SDZ arrangements there is a requirement that schools are in position ahead of or in line with demand.
Special Educational Needs.
Catherine Murphy
Question:251 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department favours the school based educational provision for children with autism spectrum disorders or if home tuition is regarded as a more appropriate educational environment for such children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12275/07]
My Department is of the view that children with autism, in common with all children, should have access to appropriate provision delivered by suitably qualified teachers within the school system where children can mix with their wider peer group and have maximum opportunities for integration. The preferred approach to the provision of appropriate education for children with autism, is through the primary and post primary school network, whether through placement in mainstream classes, in special classes or in special schools, a view that is supported by the findings of the Task Force Report on Autism.
My Department, through the home tuition scheme facilitates tuition for children with autism awaiting a suitable educational placement and early education intervention for pre-school children with autism by providing funding to parents to facilitate the provision of education at home.
The Deputy will be aware of my commitment to ensuring that all children, including those with Autistic Spectrum Disorders, receive an education appropriate to their needs, preferably through the primary and post-primary school network. In this regard my Department has established: 182 Special Classes for children with autism, attached to special and mainstream schools; 5 special Classes for children with Asperger's Syndrome; 18 pre-school classes to facilitate the demand for early intervention provision for children on the autistic spectrum; and 14 Stand Alone facilities providing an Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) specific methodology on a pilot basis (2 of these facilities have yet to be established).
Catherine Murphy
Question:252 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the introduction of school based educational provision for the special class at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare during the month of June 2007 as opposed to the month of July 2007 on a pilot project basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12276/07]
As I have previously advised the Deputy, my Department's support package for the July Education Programme is available to all special schools and mainstream primary schools with special classes catering for children with autism who choose to extend their education services through the month of July. The Department also provides for a July Programme for pupils with a severe/profound general learning disability. The package includes special nationally agreed rates of remuneration for teachers and special needs assistants involved in the July Programme. Participating schools also receive a special rate of capitation funding in respect of pupils participating in the programme. Funding is also available to facilitate the provision of school transport and escort services for the children.
All relevant schools are encouraged to participate in this initiative in the interest of the children in question. If schools are not participating in the July Education Programme, home tuition is offered as an alternative for the pupils who would normally attend such schools.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the programme is currently being reviewed and all proposals will be considered in this context.
Departmental Correspondence.
Jan O'Sullivan
Question:253 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has sent a letter to all VEC’s instructing them not to establish themselves as patron to any primary school, pending her decision on a new model of patronage; the reason just one VEC has been given the go-ahead for such patronage; her timescale for consideration of the concept; the situation regarding the application by Clare VEC which is with her Department for more than one year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12277/07]
It can happen in a small number of rapidly developing areas that a traditional patron is not readily available. In view of same, I announced on the 17 February 2007, that a new additional model of Primary school patronage would be introduced on a pilot basis at a school to be built in Diswellstown, Co Dublin. This model will provide an additional patronage option and is not intended to serve as a replacement of the existing patron models.
Following on from my recent announcement to introduce a new additional model of primary school patronage on a pilot basis, I have decided as a matter of policy that no vocational education committee (with the exception of the aforementioned pilot community primary school project) shall act as a patron in respect of a primary school or otherwise, establish or maintain a primary school until further notice.
Therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred under section 14 of the Vocational Education (Amendment) Act 2001, I have directed VECs not to establish or maintain primary schools and not to seek recognition of primary schools or recognition as Patrons pursuant to the provisions of the Education Act 1998 until further notice or direction. Vocational Education Committees were advised of same by the Department on 7 March 2007.
The Department will begin a process of consultation with the relevant education partners to explore the detailed implementation measures that will be needed to be put in place prior to the opening of the proposed new school.
School Transport.
Olwyn Enright
Question:254 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will confirm receipt of an updated report from Bus Éireann on the case referred to in parliamentary Question No. 459 of 12 December 2006; if the matter has been resolved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12283/07]
The Deputy will be aware that Bus Éireann is responsible for the planning and organising of school transport routes on behalf of my Department. The families referred to in the details supplied should liaise with their local Bus Éireann Office regarding the existing service.
Local Authority Status.
Shane McEntee
Question:255 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the arrangements required for the creation for a town council. [12124/07]
Shane McEntee
Question:256 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the last town to be granted town council status and the year of same. [12125/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 255 and 256 together.
The most recently established town council is Leixlip, in 1988, under the Towns Improvement Ireland Act 1854. The 1854 Act has since been repealed.
Part 17 of the Local Government Act 2001, not yet commenced, provides that qualified electors of a town having a population of at least 7,500 as ascertained at the last preceding census and not having a town council may make a proposal for the establishment of such a council. Under the relevant provisions of the Act, a proposal to establish a town council, and the timing of any such proposal, is a matter for the local community in the first instance, with a decision on such a proposal being a reserved function of the relevant county council, following a public consultation process.
I am continuing to keep the commencement of the relevant sections of the 2001 Act under review, while consolidating progress on quality customer service measures, with the aim of ensuring good accessible local government service delivery for all towns.
Sport and Recreational Development.
Michael Noonan
Question:257 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide additional funding for the development of a skate park in Limerick as the €125,000 already allocated is insufficient for the purpose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12169/07]
In May 2005, I introduced a new initiative for the provision of skateboard facilities by local authorities. Each City and County Council was invited to submit expressions of interest for grant assistance towards the provision of a skateboard park in its area. Applications were assessed in my Department in conjunction with the National Children's Office and some 21 projects in 21 different local authority areas were recommended for grant aid. I approved all those projects in November 2005 and increased the funding allocation to over €2 million which is expected to be spent over the two year period 2006 and 2007.
My Department has allocated a grant of €125,000 under the scheme to Limerick City Council. This is to meet 100% of the cost of the project as estimated by the Council, who have not represented to my Department that the grant is insufficient.
Proposed Legislation.
Denis Naughten
Question:258 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 945 of 20 March 2007, his legislative plans to address the issue and thereby protect young site purchasers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12209/07]
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)
The need for further legislative provisions in the matters referred to in the Question will, as necessary, be considered in the context of the forthcoming Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2007.
Water and Sewerage Schemes.
Paddy McHugh
Question:259 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position pertaining to water quality in water schemes in parts of Galway (details supplied); the involvement of his Department in investigations in this matter; the outcome of the investigations carried out to date; the measures being taken to find the source of pollution; the measures being taken to make the water fit for human consumption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12231/07]
Information on the quality of drinking water supplies is regularly compiled and provided by the Environmental Protection Agency. The latest relevant EPA report The Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland — A Report for the Year 2005 is available in the Oireachtas Library.
Management of public drinking water supplies is generally the responsibility of the local authorities which have a range of instruments and measures available to them to meet anticipated needs and to ensure quality standards. Any investigations or remedial measures relating to water quality in the schemes referred are matters for Galway City and County Councils.
Paddy McHugh
Question:260 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress being made in relation to a project (details supplied); the stage of construction of this project; the completion date for the contract; when the works will be commissioned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12232/07]
The Headford Sewerage Scheme is being funded under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-07 at a cost of €9.4m.
I approved Galway County Council's Tenders Recommendation for the scheme in May 2005 and work is scheduled for completion in Autumn 2007.
Planning Issues.
Róisín Shortall
Question:261 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the statutory basis, including SI article reference, for the requirement to have planning permission to have a footpath dished; when the need for such a provision was last reviewed; his intentions to ease this requirement under certain conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12259/07]
The maintenance and improvement of public roads, including modifications to associated public footpaths, would normally be a matter for the relevant roads authority and not for private householders.
Works relating to private roads or footpaths, or to public footpaths in the context of private development, in principle require planning permission. Certain classes of development are however exempted from the requirement of planning permission. These exemptions were revised and updated in the Planning and Development Regulations 2001(S.I. 600 of 2001).
Under class 6, schedule 2, Part 1 of the 2001 Regulations, the provision of a hard surface within the curtilage of a house is exempt from the requirement to obtain planning permission, subject to certain conditions. However, this exemption would not extend to the dishing of the pavement for access to the property, or the widening of a gateway. Given the potential implications of such works for road safety, neighbouring properties or the appearance of a street, the requirements of the current Regulations, which have been endorsed by both Houses of the Oireachtas, are considered reasonable and appropriate.
EU Directives.
Denis Naughten
Question:262 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of appeals to land designations submitted since November 2006 under various EU habitat and environmental directives; the number of such appeals on hand under each designation; the time table and procedure involved in the appeal process for each designation; the average time for processing an appeal under each designation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12260/07]
Under the Habitats Regulations 1997, a landowner may seek review of a designation of land as a proposed Special Area of Conservation (pSAC) or as a proposed Special Protection Areas (pSPAs) by making an objection in writing, and based on scientific grounds, to my Department along with a clear map of the land in question. The Regulations provide that such objections must be made within a three-month period of the site being notified.
My Department has received some 679 objections to designation of land for nature conservation since 1 November 2006. Some 596 of these relate to candidate Special Areas of Conservation (cSACs) designated under the Habitats Directive; 72 relate to designated under the Birds Directive and 11 to Natural Heritage Areas designated under the Wildlife Act.
Following receipt, each objection is given an initial review by my Department. The internal review generally takes six to eight weeks following receipt of a decision. Any person who is not satisfied with the result of that initial consideration may appeal within 3 weeks on scientific grounds to the Designated Areas Appeals Advisory Board.
Each appellant to the Appeals Advisory Board has six weeks from the time of their appeal to produce a scientific report to ground the appeal; my Department must prepare a report in response. The case is then scheduled for prompt consideration by the Board.
My Department's priority is to ensure that, in line with the Partnership Agreement, Towards 2016, the Appeals Board operates within a clear timeframe. I am also anxious to ensure that the current appeals are dealt with as expeditiously as possible as part of national efforts to conclude the designation process under the Habitats Directive. To that end, additional resources have been provided to the Appeals Advisory Board to ensure that its decisions are given promptly.
Architectural Heritage.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Question:263 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of the difficulties surrounding the attempt by the community association in Malin Head, to acquire for community use the vacant and derelict property surrounding the former signal station known as Lloyd’s Tower or Admiralty Tower, he will provide the relevant authorities with the authority to apply for a compulsory purchase order, enabling the structure and surrounding land to be brought back into public ownership, in particular due to its strategic location as a tourism destination and its subsequent importance as an integral part of the national heritage infrastructure. [12284/07]
Exercise of their compulsory purchase powers to acquire land, is a matter for local authorities themselves and is subject to confirmation by An Bord Pleanála. My Department has no function in relation to the exercise of compulsory purchase orders in particular cases.