Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 4 Apr 2007

Vol. 635 No. 2

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 12, inclusive, answered orally.

Judicial Process.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

13 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the continuing delays in court hearings for criminal trials is unacceptable; the further proposals he has for dealing with the situation; when it is expected that an adequate number of judges will be in situ; the resources that have been provided in respect of each judge; when the lengthy waiting times for court hearings, particularly in respect of criminal cases, will abate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12967/07]

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

I am firmly committed to ensuring that judicial resources are adequate to the demands placed on them. Since 2002, the number of judges sitting in the High, Circuit and District Courts has increased from 108 to 125, an increase of 17 judicial posts. In addition, the Courts and Court Officers (Amendment) Act 2007 provides for a further 14 judges — 6 Judges of the District Court, 4 ordinary Judges of the Circuit Court and 4 ordinary Judges of the High Court. The additional judges are being appointed to deal with delays and generally speed up the judicial process.

In accordance with section 16(2) of the Courts and Court Officers Act 1995, I have requested the Judicial Appointments Advisory Board to furnish me with nominations for these new posts. When these new judges are appointed shortly, it will mean that the number of additional judges sitting in Court since 2002 is 31. I should add that additional staff for the Courts Service have been sanctioned to ensure optimum use of the new judges.

In 2002, in the Central Criminal Court — where the most serious cases are heard — the waiting time between return for trial and trial was 18 months. By comparison, as of 31 December 2006, the waiting time for the hearing of cases was six months. These improvements can be attributed to the decision of the President of the High Court to assign four judges to the Central Criminal Court on an ongoing basis and to the very active management of the court list.

The strict application by the Court of its own ‘ground rules' with regard to adjournments and the continuing good case management and careful scheduling of cases have all contributed to the significant reduction in waiting times and the optimum efficient use of the judicial and other resources allocated to the Court. All cases currently before the Central Criminal Court have dates fixed earlier than the end of June 2007. I am informed that 2006 is the sixth year in a row when the number of completed cases exceeded the number of new cases returned for trial to the Central Criminal Court.

The situation in the Circuit and District Courts varies according to location. While some venues are in a position to schedule cases for the next sittings, others are experiencing delays due to a variety of factors. The Presidents of each of these courts have, at their disposal, unassigned judges who can be used, inter alia, to assist permanently assigned judges where pressure of work demands. I believe that the additional judges to be provided to the Circuit and District Courts will greatly assist in reducing delays in those courts and I will continue to keep the situation under review.

International Agreements.

Dan Boyle

Question:

14 Mr. Boyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when, in view of the Government’s decision to sign the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities on 30 March 2007, the Government will ratify the Convention in order that it can enter into force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12989/07]

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

I am delighted that Ireland was in the first group of countries to sign the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities when it opened for signature in New York on last Friday, 30th March. This UN Convention is a significant human rights convention and represents an important advance for people with disabilities.

In conjunction with its recent approval of my proposal for signature by the State of the Convention, the Government approved the establishment of an implementation group to advise on any changes to the Government's Disability Strategy that may be required to enable the State ratify the Convention. The Implementation Group will consult with representatives of people with disabilities as it carries out its work.

Asylum Applications.

Ivor Callely

Question:

15 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of people who sought asylum or leave to remain in Ireland since 1992; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12841/07]

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

The total number of applications received for Asylum from 1992 to 28 February 2007 is 73,245.

In regard to Leave to Remain, I am assuming that the Deputy is referring to applications for Leave to Remain in the State made pursuant to Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 as amended.

An application for Leave to Remain in the State in these circumstances arises where a non-national is served with a notice of intent to deport under section 3 (3) (a) of the Immigration Act, 1999. A person served with such a notice of intent to deport is afforded three options, viz. to leave the State voluntarily; to consent to the making of a Deportation Order; or to make representations in writing within 15 working days setting out reasons as to why a Deportation Order should not be made and why temporary Leave to Remain in the State be granted instead.

Leave to remain, outside that granted on the grounds of parentage of an Irish born child or marriage to an Irish or EU national, is considered in the context of deciding whether or not to deport a non-national.

In determining whether to make a deportation order or grant temporary leave to remain in the State, I must have regard to the eleven factors set out in Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 (Prohibition of Refoulement) of the Refugee Act, 1996, as amended.

Temporary leave to remain is considered in every case regardless of whether representations are made by, or on behalf of, the persons concerned. Statistics are not maintained in a way which distinguishes between those who have made an application for leave to remain and those who have not. Moreover, it must be borne in mind that many of those who failed the asylum process, and who did not opt to return voluntarily or consent to deportation, nonetheless left the State before a decision to deport or grant leave to remain was made.

Criminal Prosecutions.

Seán Crowe

Question:

16 Mr. Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí charged with the offence of disclosure of information under Section 62 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 since its commencement; and the number of files sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions relating to the offence. [12979/07]

Martin Ferris

Question:

25 Mr. Ferris 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. [12983/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 16 and 25.

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 and receive any gift, consideration or advantage as an inducement to disclose any information.

The Deputy will be aware that this provision in its original draft form attracted a considerable degree of public controversy during its passage through the Oireachtas on the grounds that it would be unnecessarily restrictive. However I am satisfied that the provision as enacted struck the right balance and I know that the great majority of members of the force would instinctively cohere with its fundamental policy aspect.

The section came into force on 1 August 2005 and to date there have been no proceedings commenced. In addition to section 62 of the Garda Síochána Act, former Gardaí are also governed by the provisions of the Official Secrets Act and the Data Protection 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.

As an organisation the Garda Síochána takes its responsibility for the control of the information it possesses about individuals very seriously. Where allegations of unauthorised disclosure are made the Commissioner will not hesitate to take the appropriate action.

Drugs in Prisons.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

17 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the tangible results that have been achieved in tackling the significant problem of drugs in prison; when prisons will be free of drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12966/07]

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

In May of last year I launched the new Irish Prison Service Drugs Policy & Strategy — Keeping Drugs Out of Prisons. This new policy clearly set out the steps required to tackle the supply of drugs into prisons, provide adequate treatment services to those who are addicted to drugs and ensure that developments in the prisons were linked into the community. Since then significant progress has been achieved in implementing this plan.

In line with my policy the Irish Prison Service has intensified its focus on preventing illicit drugs being brought into prisons. The traditional means of effecting supply reduction — staff vigilance, physical searches and supervision of persons entering prisons — continues to be reinforced by means of improved facilities and procedures. Specific measures which have been taken include:

New prison visiting arrangements which involve greater control over the number and identity of visitors, and enhanced supervision of such visits. As a result only identified and known persons are allowed to have visits with prisoners, reducing the likelihood of visitors attempting to pass drugs, and of prisoners being coerced into receiving visits from persons not known to them to facilitate the passing of drugs.

Enhanced perimeter security involving improved netting and closer cooperation with the Garda Síochána to arrest and prosecute persons attempting to convey drugs into prisons. This has resulted in arrest, prosecution and imprisonment of persons attempting to convey drugs into prisons.

Improved technology for searching of cells and prison property which has resulted in the improved detection and seizure of contraband.

Improved prison design aimed at ensuring greater security, for example new prisons are designed to be impervious to attempts to propel drugs into prison yards, and

The introduction of drug detection dogs to monitor all persons entering prisons and to aid searches within prisons.

Drug Treatment Services to prisoners are also being significantly enhanced through the development of new services and programmes for addicted prisoners. These services are being delivered by the Irish Prison Service in partnership with community based services and contracted private services and supported by additional staffing for prison based Drug Treatment Teams. Specific developments include:

A tender for 24 Addiction Counsellors to cover all Prisons has been awarded to Merchants Quay Ireland and Counsellors are already coming on stream. This will, in conjunction with other developments, lead to an increase of nearly 1000 hours per week of prisoner access to addiction counselling.

7 Nurse Officers and 5 Prison Officers have been allocated to Dedicated Drug Treatment Teams in prisons with significant needs, this will improve service quality in prisons which receive a large number of prisoner committals with addictions.

The Dormant Accounts Fund has provided funding for 4 community groups to provide addiction counselling and support to prisoners while in prison and on release in the community, this will build on their success in becoming drug free in prison when the prisoner returns to the community.

Additional Consultant in Addiction and Registrars Prisons Sessions have been established and resourced, significantly improving the quality, coordination and availability of drug treatment in prisons.

An In-reach Hepatitis C Nurse has been contracted from St James' Hospital to provide new treatments to prisoners who suffer from this disease. It is hoped to expand this service to other sites.

Tender for Dedicated Drug Treatment Pharmacy Services will issue this month, again supporting improved quality and availability of treatment services.

These services will be provided on the basis of clinical needs and will be supported by the implementation of a system of Mandatory Drug Testing (provided for in the Prisons Act 2007).

The target is to achieve a prison system free of drugs and to help those addicted to drugs to break the cycle of crime and drug abuse. This target will not be achieved overnight and will require constant vigilance but it has to remain as a key priority of the Prison Service.

Legal Representation.

Liz McManus

Question:

18 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the concern expressed by the author of new research into the operation of Family Law Courts (details supplied) that the high number of lay litigants in contested family law cases should give rise to the cost of legal representation for those who need it; if he will take steps to deal with this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12915/07]

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

I understand that the Deputy is referring to an article in the inaugural edition of the Courts Service Report ‘Family Law Matters' published in February 2007. The article, based on an interview with the manager of the Dublin Circuit Family Law Office, speculated that there has been a huge rise in lay litigants in family law cases over the past few years due perhaps to the costs of legal representation.

There is a number of factors which may lead people to undertake their own litigation, particularly where the divorce is uncontested. Greater access to information, including free information provided by the Courts Service, allows litigants to make informed decisions as to whether or not to seek further legal advice or representation. With consent divorces representing a significant proportion of all divorces, many of the potentially contentious issues will already have been settled in advance of divorce proceedings, often by prior judicial separation or following mediation.

It would be a matter of concern if lay litigants were acting on their own behalf, not because they have freely chosen to do so having regard to all their circumstances, but because they were financially precluded from seeking legal assistance. But it is important to differentiate between the situation of lay litigants making a free and informed choice to save money by representing themselves in straightforward and uncontested proceedings, and the spectre the Deputy raises of vulnerable people being unable to obtain vital legal advice and assistance.

I am satisfied that the Legal Aid Scheme provides effective access to legal advice and representation to persons on lower incomes. The Civil Legal Aid Regulations, which I made in 2006, both simplified the means test rules for qualifying for legal aid and substantially increased the disposable income limits — from €13,000 to €18,000 — and the deductible allowances, including for dependents, childcare and accommodation. Given the significant increase in the Legal Aid Scheme thresholds, enabling more people to qualify for assistance, and given also that many divorces are uncontested and settled by consent, I do not believe that the increase in the number of lay litigants is in itself a cause for concern.

Garda Recruitment.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

19 Ms Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the promised additional Gardaí will be recruited in regard to his announcement of 19 December 2006; when the extra Garda Reserve members will be in place; when the proposed civilianisation of Garda posts will take place; the numbers involved in respect of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12913/07]

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

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 reached.

The Garda Commissioner is proceeding with the recruitment and training of 1,500 members of the Garda reserve. I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are intakes to the Garda College every 4-6 weeks. The total personnel strength of the Garda Reserve including trainees was 123 at 29th March 2007.

The first group of 36 Garda Reserves completed their training and were formally attested as members of An Garda Síochána on 15th December 2006. They have been deployed in Dublin (Store Street and Pearse Street), Cork (Anglesea Street), Galway City and Sligo.

The second group commenced training in the Garda College at Templemore on 20th January 2007. This group consists of 52 Garda Reserve trainees who will be deployed in Blanchardstown, Santry, Dun Laoghaire, Tallaght, Limerick, Clare, Sligo, Galway and Kerry. It is expected that they will be attested in May.

Training for the third group of 35 Reserve trainees commenced on 3rd March 2007 and it is expected that they will be attested in June. It is also expected that further groups of Reserve trainees will commence training on a monthly basis. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the next intake will be on 28th April 2007. Further interviews were held in recent weeks for applicants throughout the country and interviews have now taken place in each of the 26 counties. Applicants will continue to be interviewed on a rolling basis over the coming weeks and months. By June of this year three groups of trainees will have been attested, i.e. 123 Reserve members.

With regard to civilianisation, I am informed that there is currently a campaign underway to recruit 300 civilian support staff into An Garda Síochána to release Gardaí who are employed on clerical duties to operational duties. This process is well underway and interviews are currently being held by the Public Appointments Service to recruit these Clerical Officers. Since the beginning of 2007, 93 Clerical Officers have been appointed to An Garda Síochána. A further 46 have been offered a Clerical Officer post. Preparations are at an advanced stage to commence the recruitment of a civilian Chief Administration Officer in An Garda Síochána, at a grade equivalent to Deputy Commissioner. An Garda Síochána is also in the process of recruiting senior civilian managers as Head of Media and Public Relations, Directors of Strategy, Human Resources and Information Technology. A dedicated Human Resource Directorate has been established within An Garda Síochána to serve the needs of the 2000 clerical, administrative, professional, technical and industrial civilian staff already working in An Garda Síochána and to promote an extensive programme of civilianisation.

Significant progress is being made on recruitment to a range of key specialised civilian posts, including:

31 posts in the Garda Telecommunications area;

28 staff for the Professional Standards Unit, comprising statisticians, analysts and administrative staff;

10 posts in the new Internal Audit Unit;

14 additional teaching/training posts in the Garda College in Templemore; and

29 posts for the new civilian Crime Analysis Service.

The foregoing is in addition to the establishment of the Garda Informations Services Centre which employs over 160 civilians doing work which was previously done by operational Gardai. The success of the incident reporting and data quality review facilities available at the GISC encouraged the Garda authorities to seek opportunities for the devolution of further tasks to the Centre. One such initiative involves the reporting of the outcome of court cases to the GISC, which allows Gardaí to remain operational following completion of their court attendances. The call-taking function of Garda Traffic Watch has already transferred from six Regional Garda Communication Centres to the GISC. Under a further initiative, the logging of driving licence and insurance particulars, a function formerly carried out by Gardaí and civilian personnel in the Fixed Charge Processing System, is now undertaken at the GISC. All of these initiatives are contributing significantly to the release of Garda resources for visible, frontline policing across our communities. It is proposed to carry out a review of the GISC in the summer of 2007 and the outcome of this evaluation will inform future projects.

Garda Information System.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

20 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement detailing the availability of internet facilities to members of An Garda Síochána across the State and the level of e-literacy amongst the force; and if he will make provisions for more facilities and training to ensure that the work of Gardaí will no longer be unnecessarily hindered by the absence of same. [12978/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the Garda Information System (GIS) which includes, inter alia, access to PULSE, the Garda National Immigration Bureau Systems and Email is also used to deliver internet access to members where operational needs require.

Training in information technology is provided both in the Garda College and in the Continuous Professional Development Centres around the country and is kept under constant review. All Gardaí graduating from the Garda college receive comprehensive training in the use of the information technology available through the Garda Information System. The Garda College is currently developing an e-learning training programme which will utilise virtual learning environments to deliver various aspects of the overall training requirements for the Force. The system is currently being piloted with student Gardaí in the College.

In addition, internet facilities are currently being rolled out to all Continuous Professional Development Centres in the Force which provides for the continued development training of both student and attested Gardaí throughout their careers. All staff in these centres are proficient in computer applications. A comprehensive programme of training is also provided for all members before any major information system is deployed in the Force. The degree to which internet facilities and additional IT training required is ultimately a matter for Garda management to decide based on operational needs.

Garda Investigations.

Joe Costello

Question:

21 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a Garda investigation has been held into the circumstances in which a newspaper was apparently told that a person (details supplied) was known to the Gardaí, a term often used to describe a person involved in criminal activity; the results of such investigation; if he will confirm that the person was of good character; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12907/07]

Martin Ferris

Question:

54 Mr. Ferris asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he made arrangements for an investigation, independent of An Garda Síochána, to be conducted into the source of comments reported in the media that a person (details supplied) was known to Gardaí; if so, the outcome of the investigation including whether disciplinary proceedings have been commenced; if there is an intoxilyser in Harcourt Terrace Garda Station; and the length of time that station has had the facility. [12976/07]

Joe Costello

Question:

83 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Gardaí investigation into the death of a person (details supplied) has been completed; the findings of such investigation; if he will request the Garda Ombudsman Commission to hold an investigation into this death, after it formally commences operations in April 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12906/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 21, 54 and 83 together.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the incident referred to by the Deputies is under investigation under the direction of a Superintendent and when it is completed an investigation file will be submitted to the Law Officers. As the investigation is still ongoing, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on it at this time.

I am also informed that it is not the policy of An Garda Síochána for official spokespersons to comment on the character of an individual. It is to be deeply regretted that some reports from unnamed sources initially attempted — with no foundation whatsoever — to put the character of the person referred to at issue.

I will make a Commencement Order shortly to enable the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission to commence taking complaints and undertaking investigations from 9 May 2007. From that date the Ombudsman Commission will be required to investigate any complaint concerning the death of, or serious harm to, a person as a result of Garda operations or while in the custody and care of An Garda Síochána.

Under section 102(6) of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform may in the public interest request the Ombudsman Commission to investigate any matter where it appears that a member of An Garda Síochána may have committed an offence or behaved in a way that would justify disciplinary proceedings. In addition, under section 102(4) the Ombudsman Commission may in the public interest decide to investigate any such matter, even where no complaint has been made.

It may be that on its own initiative the Ombudsman Commission may on its establishment decide to investigate this matter or, if needs be, I will consider using my own powers to refer the matter to them.

I am further informed that an intoxyliser evidential breath testing instrument is installed and operational in Harcourt Terrace Garda station since 21 December, 2006.

National Disability Strategy.

David Stanton

Question:

22 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the role and responsibilities of his Department with regard to the National Disability Strategy and the implementation of the Disability Act 2005; the targets and costing set in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12961/07]

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

The National Disability Strategy was launched by the Government in September 2004 and underpins the participation of people with disabilities in Irish society by building on existing policy and legislation. The implementation of the Strategy is the agreed focus of disability policy under the Partnership Agreement, Towards 2016. My Department is responsible for the provision of the framework for the implementation of the Strategy including cross-Departmental coordination and reports to the Cabinet Committee on Social Inclusion on progress of the Strategy. The Minister of State at my Department, Frank Fahey, T.D., has acted with special responsibility for disability issues.

The Deputy will be aware that key elements of the Strategy include the Disability Act, 2005 and Sectoral Plans for service provision for people with disabilities. The Disability Act is the cornerstone of the National Disability Strategy and my Department played a lead role in its development and enactment. All sections of the Disability Act have been commenced, with the exception of Part 2 (Assessment of Needs, Service Statements and Redress). Arrangements in relation to the implementation of Part 2 are set out in the sectoral plan of the Department of Health and Children.

Under the Act, six Government Departments were required to draw up plans in key sectors including transport, built infrastructure, housing, training and employment, health and social welfare provision. My Department acted as co-ordinator for the purpose of the Sectoral plans and presented the Plans to the Houses of the Oireachtas for approval; they were published by the Government in December, 2006. Each of the relevant Departments has provided its own targets and costings for the implementation of the Sectoral Plans.

All public bodies, subject to certain considerations, must meet a number of requirements with regard to accessibility under the Act. These accessibility provisions are now supported by the new Code of Practice on Accessibility of Public Services and Information Provided by Public Bodies which I signed into law and launched in July, 2006. The Code of Practice was developed by the National Disability Authority (NDA) in consultation with my Department. The Act also gives statutory effect to the 3% employment target for people with disabilities in the public sector. My Department has a key role in relation to the implementation of these provisions while progress achieved by public bodies in this regard is being monitored by the NDA. Again, under the Act, a Centre for Excellence in Universal Design has recently been established within the NDA with the support of my Department. The Centre has an important role in contributing to the development and promotion of standards in universal design. A budgetary provision of €450,000 has been allocated for the Centre for 2007.

Under the terms of Towards 2016, I established the National Disability Strategy Stakeholder Monitoring Group at the end of last year to monitor progress on the overall implementation of the National Disability Strategy. The Group comprises representatives of stakeholder groups, senior officials and the NDA while my Department also serves as secretariat to the Group.

The National Disability Authority is concerned with the implementation of important aspects of the Strategy and works closely with my Department to meet relevant objectives. The funding provision for the NDA for 2007 is €6.3 million.

The roll-out of the Strategy has been accompanied by a significant increase in the level of investment to expand the range of services and supports available to persons with disabilities. In particular, the Government is committed to a five-year, multi-annual Investment Programme to run until 2009 worth €900 million, targeted at high priority disability support services.

In addition to ensuring the delivery of the key objectives of the National Disability Strategy, my Department has a role in several important functions that are complementary to the Strategy. My Department had a lead role in relation to the negotiation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities which was adopted by a UN General Assembly in December 2006. Ireland was in the first group of countries to sign the Convention last week. My Department also has a lead role in relation to the ratification process.

My Department also funds certain accessible transport services for people with disabilities, promoted an independent living support programme and provides financial support to People with Disabilities in Ireland (PwDI). The total funding allocation for these initiatives amounts to €3.2 million in 2007. My Department also continues to fund the Enhancing Disabilities Services Programme which I launched in 2005. The Programme comprises a funding package of €15 million over a five year period to support once-off projects which could demonstrate an innovative, efficient, collaborative and cost effective approach to service provision for people with disabilities. The funding allocation for this Programme for 2007 is €3 million.

In 2006, my Department undertook a number of awareness raising initiatives including funding two TV programmes and a National Information Day. The funding allocation to continue such initiatives in 2007 is €434,000.

The Excellence through Accessibility Award was initiated to acknowledge public bodies that provide accessible services to people with disabilities. The NDA, in consultation with my Department, issued guidelines and the first awards ceremony took place in September, 2006 at which four public bodies were presented with awards.

Criminal Assets.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

23 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied that the assets of criminal gangs have been fully examined, assessed or targeted; if sufficient resources have been made available to adequately investigate such activity with particular reference to racketeering and money laundering and links with criminals outside this jurisdiction; if action has been taken to reduce the incidents of the use of criminally acquired assets to fund otherwise legitimate businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12997/07]

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

I have been advised by An Garda Síochána that the Criminal Assets Bureau has sufficient financial and other resources available to it to operate effectively pursuant to its statutory remit. The Bureau also continues to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in other jurisdictions in order to fully achieve its objectives pursuant to its statutory remit. The Bureau keeps the allocation of personnel under constant review in light of its workload and a Forensic Analyst and a Professional Accountant have recently been recruited. The matter of resources is kept under constant review.

With regard to the matter of using criminally acquired assets to fund otherwise legitimate businesses, any individuals in local communities who believe they can openly flaunt wealth or assets secured through illegal activities, including drug dealing, will by vigorously pursued by the Gardaí either through the provisions of the Criminal Justice Act 1994 or through the work of the Criminal Assets Bureau under its statutory remit. In addition to this, since 2004, an initiative has been in place whereby one member of An Garda Síochána from each Garda Division is trained as a profiler in respect of criminal assets. This Initiative was developed by the Criminal Assets Bureau in conjunction with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. A Divisional Criminal Assets Profiler is now in place in each of the 25 Garda Divisions and a full complement of Divisional Profilers is being maintained.

The Criminal Assets Bureau has been at the forefront of the fight against organised crime, including drug trafficking, in this jurisdiction since its inception in 1996. The significant successes that the Bureau continues to achieve by its operations demonstrates the effectiveness of its approach in pursuing illegally gotten gains. The manner in which the Bureau operates has, in the eleven-year period of its operation, come to be viewed, both domestically and internationally, as a very successful model for targeting persons seeking to derive profits from criminal activities.

Crime Levels.

Mary Upton

Question:

24 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gun murders recorded in 2006; the way this compares with the figures for 2005; the number of gun murders recorded to date in 2007; the steps being taken to deal with these crimes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12918/07]

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

52 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of cases of murder in which firearms were used in respect of each year from 1998 to date in 2007; the number of such cases in which prosecutions for murder were initiated; the number of such cases where convictions were secured; if he is satisfied with the level of detection and conviction in such cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12920/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

129 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gun crimes committed in each of the past five years to date in 2007; the number of prosecutions and convictions arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13366/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

134 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number and nature of gun crime reported in the past two years; the number of prosecutions and convictions arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13371/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 24, 52, 129 and 134 together.

I refer the Deputies to my answer to Question No. 60 of today's date.

Following the submission to me in 2004 of a report and recommendations by an expert group on crime statistics, I decided that the compilation and publication of crime statistics should be taken over by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, from the Garda Síochána. The Garda Síochána Act, 2005 consequently makes provision for this and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose. Following the setting up of the necessary technical systems and auditing of the data from which the statistics are compiled, I am pleased to note that the CSO is now compiling and publishing criminal statistics and has published provisional headline crime statistics for the third and fourth quarters of 2006. In addition, it has compiled and published a series of quarterly and annual statistics for the period starting with the first quarter of 2003. I understand that the CSO are examining how the crime statistics published might be expanded and made more comprehensive. I have requested the CSO to provide the information sought by the Deputies directly to them.

Question No. 25 answered with QuestionNo. 16.

Proposed Legislation.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

26 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he expects to publish the Property Services Regulatory Authority Bill; if he will include powers to control charges imposed by estate agents having regard to recent reports that this sector was planning to increase its fees by up to 33%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12932/07]

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

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 31 on 22 February 2007. I have nothing further to add to that reply.

Port Status.

Joan Burton

Question:

27 Ms Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to private airports here; the private airports that have port of entry status; his proposals to grant port of entry status to private airports without such status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10233/07]

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

I refer the Deputy to my previous answer to Questions Nos. 193 and 194 of 6th March, 2007. The position as set out in that answer has not changed.

Section 6 of the Immigration Act 2004 provides, inter alia, that a non-national (other than a seaman) coming by sea or air from outside the State shall not, without the consent of the Minister for Justice Equality and Law Reform, land elsewhere than at an approved port. A non-national who lands in the State in contravention of this provision shall be deemed to be refused permission and shall be guilty of an offence.

The most recent list of approved ports is set out in the Immigration Act 2004 (Approved Ports) Regulations 2004. These are as follows.

Carrickfinn Airport	Galway
Cobh	Galway Airport
Connaught Airport	Greencastle
Cork	Moville
Cork Airport	Rosslare Harbour
Dublin	Shannon Airport
Dublin Airport	Sligo Airport
Dún Laoghaire	Waterford
Farranfore Airport	Waterford Regional Airport

As I set out in my answer to the Deputy's previous Questions there is no distinction in Immigration legislation between privately and publicly owned ports nor between airports and seaports. Apart from the general application of the criminal law and its enforcement by an Garda Siochána and such general legal provisions applicable to an airport in the same way as to any other location, my role as regards the operation of such ports is in relation to immigration matters only. I have no function as regards the general operation of an airport, including its licensing or the approval of traffic volumes or air safety. Such matters are appropriate to the Department of Transport and the Irish Aviation Authority. There is also a central role for local authorities in respect of planning.

Applications for approved port status in respect of private or publicly owned airports are considered in the context of overall Government policy in the airport sector and generally will fall to be considered once these policy aspects in regard to any particular area have been determined.

Drugs Trade.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

28 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he has taken, other than producing more legislation amending his earlier legislation, in anticipation of the expected impact in summer 2007 from the 49% increase in poppy production in Afghanistan in Spring 2006. [12977/07]

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

As is reflected in the Deputy's question, recent international data from the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime (UNODC) suggests that the level of heroin production, particularly in Afghanistan, has significantly increased in recent times. The UNODC also highlight that there is a significant surplus of heroin supply exceeding worldwide demand for the drug. That Office continues to spearhead international efforts aimed at addressing what are, as I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, complex issues which give rise to the continued high levels of opium production in that region. Undoubtedly such production has a direct effect on the amount of heroin in circulation globally.

So this problem is by no means unique to Ireland as drug misuse remains one of the most complex social ills faced worldwide . However we are responsible for what happens in our own jurisdiction and we must constantly strive to ensure that the measures and policies we have in place address the problem and are flexible enough to be able to respond to what is a global and dynamic issue.

As I have said on the record on many occasions previously, while our drug law enforcement response is of course a vital feature of our overall response in addressing the issue we cannot just look at the issue from a supply reduction perspective only. Rather, we must examine the drugs problem in the wider context in which it takes place and take cognisance of the fact that the demand for and the use of illegal drugs is what fuels the drugs trade. The measures that we have in place to address the problem must take account of this.

The Government remains resolutely committed to tackling the problem through our National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008. The National Strategy addresses the problem under pillar headings of education and prevention, supply reduction, treatment and rehabilitation and research and is firmly founded on the principle that drug misuse needs to be addressed in an integrated manner across these headings through a co-operative approach involving the statutory, community and voluntary treatment sectors.

The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, under the stewardship of my colleague and Minister of State Mr. Noel Ahern, T.D., is the lead Government Department in co-ordinating the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy. My Department's remit in this area, while not exclusively, is primarily in the area of drug supply reduction, and drug law enforcement remains a key feature of the Government's drug policy framework.

I can assure the Deputy that An Garda Siochána will continue to direct its drug law enforcement activities in a focused way through intelligence driven operations at national, regional, divisional and district level co-ordinated by the Garda National Drugs Unit in conjunction with other specialist Garda units and local Garda management. Underpinning this approach, An Garda Siochána will continue to invoke a number of broad strategic responses in addressing the issue. These include the following;

Identifying, targeting and dismantling national and international drug trafficking networks which supply and distribute illegal drugs within this state

Conducting intelligence driven operations focusing on all aspects of the illicit drugs trade including commodity, logistics, distribution and financing.

Working with other national and international law enforcement agencies on joint actions designed to reduce the availability of drugs and the proceeds derived from the drugs trade

Working in partnership with statutory, community and voluntary groups to reduce both the supply and demand for drugs within society.

Significant drug seizures including the considerable increase in the amount of heroin continuing to be seized in recent times in this jurisdiction have been made as a result of this approach. Such measures will continue to be vigorously pursued by An Garda Siochána.

The record level of resources, both in financial and personnel terms, being made available to An Garda Siochána this year is proof of the Government's commitment and determination to ensure that the Garda authorities will continue to implement targeted, intelligence and high intensity operations against organised crime with a special focus on drugs crime.

Furthermore we are ensuring that our law enforcement agencies have a strong legislative platform from which to operate in their work in tackling those involved in such criminal activity.

Finally, I can assure the House that the policy of targeting those involved in organised crime including drug trafficking and the gun culture with which it is associated remains the Government's top policing priority.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Dan Boyle

Question:

29 Mr. Boyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the facility for access by persons with disabilities to his Department Headquarters on St Stephen’s Green; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12990/07]

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

At present, due to the nature of the steps to the front of the building at 94 Stephen's Green, which are consistent with the building's age and character, access by persons with a physical disability is facilitated via the car park entrance at the side of the building. A planning application has been lodged with the Local Authority to erect/install a wheel chair ramp at the front of the building.

Garda Ombudsman Commission.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

30 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made with regard to the establishment of the Garda Ombudsman Commission; the number of staff recruited to date; when he expects that the Commission will begin dealing with complaints from the public; his views on the long delay in getting the office up and running, in view on the fact that the legislation was passed by the Houses of the Oireachtas in July 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12919/07]

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

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission has undertaken an extensive programme of work in order to commence operations and significant progress has been made in this regard. A new building has been sourced in Dublin City Centre and is currently being fitted out. The recruitment and training of staff is far advanced and 58 of the 81 staff approved for the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission are currently in place.

The Garda Ombudsman will be open to deal with complaints from the general public on 9th May 2007.

The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commissioners were appointed by the President on the 10th February 2006 following nomination by the Government and recommendations by both Houses of the Oireachtas.

Having regard to the timelines noted in the Report of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 Implementation Review Group (the Hayes Report) and that the time required by the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland and the Independent Police Complaints Commission in England and Wales to commence operations was up to 15 months, I am satisfied that the Commission's progress in becoming operational is in line with general expectations.

Prison Building Programme.

Joan Burton

Question:

31 Ms Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a review of the spending approval procedures has been implemented in relation to the approval given by his Department for the purchase of the Thornton Prison site; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a 120 acre site nearby at Corrstown which was on the shortlist of possible sites has now sold for €100,000 an acre, half the Thornton price; the measures his Department has implemented since the purchase of Thornton to ensure value for taxpayers’ money; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10215/07]

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

A 120 acre site at Corrstown was one of a number of sites selected for a detailed examination and rejected by the Mountjoy Complex Replacement Site Committee which consisted of officials of the IPS, the Dept of Justice Equality and Law Reform, one of the Commissioners for Public Works and an outside valuer. The examination by consulting engineers led to its being rejected as being unsuitable for the development of a major prison complex. The road access was not acceptable for a prison development, the shape of the site was not compatible with the intended campus layout and the land was undulating and would require considerable excavation to allow for necessary development.

The purchase of a site that was not fit for purpose would not have represented value for the taxpayer's money regardless of the price paid.

The spending approval measures applied in the case of the Thornton site have been scrutinised in detail, fully comply with Government guidelines and delivered an excellent site which will provide good long term value for the taxpayer.

No land that was suitable for a prison and which was nearer to Dublin was identified by the committee as available for purchase at a lesser price and no such land has, to the knowledge of the Department or the IPS changed hands at less than €200,000 per acre since the purchase of Thornton.

Community Policing.

Denis Naughten

Question:

32 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he is taking to improve community policing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12838/07]

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

Community policing is a central feature of the policing policy of An Garda Síochána. Community Policing Units are established throughout the country, and members are encouraged to engage with the local communities where they are working. Current policing policy is predicated on the prevention of public order offences; the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property; and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a quality policing service. In addition to the dedicated Community Policing Units, all Gardaí have a responsibility to respond to community policing issues as they arise. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the number of personnel engaged in dedicated community policing on 29 March, 2007 was 521 (all ranks).

The Garda Siochana Act 2005 provides for the establishment of a joint policing committee in each local authority administrative area, to provide a forum where a local authority and the senior Garda officers responsible for the policing of that area, with the participation of Oireachtas members and community interests, can consult, discuss and make recommendations on matters affecting the policing of the area. Twenty two joint policing committees are being established by local authorities and the Garda Commissioner in a pilot phase, and I intend that following a time-limited and focused evaluation they will be established in all local authority areas by the end of 2007.

The Garda Síochána rely on the ongoing and active support of public to enable them to be at their most effective in their functions. The joint policing committees have a central role in achieving this by mobilising the resources of the local authority, the community and individual residents.

The Garda Síochána support and foster a number of crime prevention measures which have direct value for residents of local communities. The Neighbourhood Watch Scheme which was established in 1985 by the Garda Síochána as a crime prevention measure for urban areas. There are approximately 2,600 Neighbourhood Watch schemes in operation throughout the country. Since its establishment, the Garda authorities have sought to encourage the active participation of the public in Neighbourhood Watch by encouraging and supporting communities to establish and maintain such initiatives. An Garda Síochána has been a strategic partner in driving and supporting Neighbourhood Watch through its Community Relations Section and local Garda management and has deployed Crime Prevention Officers and Liaison Gardai to assist schemes. A strategic review of the Scheme by An Garda Síochana is currently nearing completion.

The Community Alert programme is a community based crime prevention initiative in rural communities which was set up by Muintir na Tíre in association with An Garda Síochána in 1985. It is a national movement with a network comprising of approximately 1,250 local Community Alert groups dedicated to improving the quality of life of people in rural communities who are vulnerable, in particular the elderly, by crime prevention, neighbourliness and self reliance, general community safety and well-being, accident prevention, promotion of personal safety, with an awareness of social inclusion. My Department has for some time funded the work of Development Officers working to expand and strengthen Community Alert.

I am strongly of the view that community organisations have, through their support and co-operation with the Garda Síochána an important role to play in crime prevention and the promotion of community safety, and I very much support the work in this area being carried out by Muintir na Tíre through Community Alert.

I recently determined priorities for the Garda Siochana for 2007 under section 20 of the Garda Siochana Act 2005. These priorities include:

an increase in public confidence in law enforcement through significantly increased high visibility policing in the community;

monitoring and improving response times to emergency calls while ensuring that persons reporting any crime are dealt with sympathetically and efficiently;

using the civilianisation process and the outsourcing of appropriate services to increase the number of Gardai on operational duties; and

taking effective steps to protect vulnerable people living in isolated areas.

I am 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 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, 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 its highest level ever.

The Garda Reserve will supplement the strength of the Garda Síochána in policing local communities and will be a valuable additional support for them. It will enhance its capacity to respond to emerging policing challenges and will reinforce its links with local communities.

Anti-Racism Measures.

David Stanton

Question:

33 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the role his Department has in working to reduce racism in society here; the way his Department interacts with the National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism and the Equality Authority in relation to same; the progress of the National Action Plan against Racism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12962/07]

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

One of the key objectives of my Department is to promote a fair, tolerant and caring society. This includes the development of a broad framework of policies and measures to create and promote an inclusive society and to combat discrimination including racism.

In point of fact, Ireland is already to the fore in its promotion and protection of the principles of equality and freedom from discrimination as a result of the ground-breaking legislation which was enacted in this regard with the Employment Equality Act 1998 and the Equal Status Act 2000. This legislation prohibits both direct and indirect discrimination in the areas of employment and access to goods and services on nine grounds; gender, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race or membership of the Traveller community.

Amendments to both these Acts were made in the Equality Act 2004 which gives effect in domestic law to Ireland's obligations as a member of the European Union to implement Community initiatives provided for under Council Directives 2000/43/EC and 2000/78/EC, adopted under Article 13 of the EC Treaty, and Council Directive 2002/73/EC adopted under Article 141 of the treaty. These Directives, commonly known as the Equality Directives, provide for equal treatment on the grounds of gender, racial or ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age and sexual orientation. There is, therefore, a broad legislative infrastructure in place under which discrimination can be dealt with.

There are also in place effective institutional structures, in the shape of the Equality Authority and the Equality Tribunal, to ensure effective implementation of the statutes. At a general level within society, it is the role of the Equality Authority to promote the awareness of the overall equality framework, of which anti-racism measures are a constituent part. The Authority works at many levels and with many bodies towards the elimination of racial discrimination within society. Furthermore, the Equality Tribunal is the main body for investigating and mediating on cases of discrimination and harassment.

Developing reasonable and common sense measures to accommodate cultural diversity in society and to combat racism are key ongoing priorities for the Government. Among the measures taken by the Government was the very successful "Know Racism" campaign which brought together representatives of Government, the Social Partners, Community, Voluntary and Farming sectors and key bodies such as the Equality Authority and the NCCRI and the Garda Síochana to raise awareness of racism and promote respect for diversity. This work continues, for example, in campaigns like the Anti-Racism Workplace Week which runs every November and is organised by the Equality Authority.

Arising from commitments given by the Government at the 2001 UN Conference Against Racism in Durban and reaffirmed in Sustaining Progress, the Taoiseach and I launched the National Action Plan Against Racism (NPAR) in January, 2005. The Plan provides strategic direction to combat racism and to develop a more inclusive, intercultural society in Ireland. The development of the Plan was preceded by a 12 month consultation process involving a wide range of stakeholders, including Government, the social partners, NGO's including representatives of minority ethnic groups and the travelling community. There are five primary objectives underpinning the NPAR:

Effective protection and redress against racism, including a focus on discrimination, threatening behaviour and incitement to hatred

Economic inclusion and equality of opportunity, Including focus on employment, the workplace and poverty

Accommodating diversity in service provision, including a focus on common outcomes, education, health, social services and childcare, accommodation and the administration of justice

Recognition and awareness of diversity, including a focus on awareness raising, the media and the arts, sport and tourism

Full participation in Irish society, including a focus on the political level, the policy level and the community level.

In relation to specific measures taken under the NPAR, I would refer the Deputy to my replies to Question No. 79 of 7 December, 2006 and Question No. 34 of 22 February, 2007.

The NPAR has received international recognition drawing praise from the United Nations Committee for the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination (UNCERD) in its Concluding Observations on Ireland's national report on the implementation of the UNCERD.

The National Consultative Committee on Racism and Interculturalism (NCCRI) was established in July 1998. The NCCRI is an independent body and is funded by my Department. The Committee provides a forum for Government departments, agencies and non-governmental organisations to develop a constructive dialogue on issues which arise in relation to opposing discrimination in our society. Its overall aim is to provide an ongoing structure to develop programmes and actions aimed at developing an integrated approach to anti-discrimination issues, particularly racism and to act in a policy advisory role to the Government. The NCCRI works proactively with Government in this area and has been a key partner in the development of the National Action Plan against Racism.

The Director of the NCCRI and Chief Executive of the Equality Authority are both members of the Strategic Monitoring Group for the NPAR.

I am satisfied that the policies and strategies in place are effective and take into account the considerable economic, social and cultural change that we have undergone and will continue to experience in the future.

Departmental Investigations.

Seán Ryan

Question:

34 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received a report (details supplied); the main findings of the report; if he has not received the report, when he expects to do so; the reason for the delay in completing the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12926/07]

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

I can inform the Deputy that I have recently received the report of Mr Mellett into the death of Mr Douch and am in the process of studying its findings. In that context, I have been in consultation with the Attorney General and the Director of Public Prosecutions and am also considering their views on the matter.

Gender Pay Differentials.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

35 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to ensure full gender pay equality; the reason his work on this matter to date has failed; the action he is taking within his Department and its agencies to ensure that full gender pay equality exists; if an independent survey has been undertaken by his Department or any of its agencies on this subject; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8343/07]

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

It is generally acknowledged that the reasons behind the gender pay gap are varied and complex. Consequently the Government has adopted a multifaceted approach across a number of areas in order to address the closure of the pay gap.

The Consultative Group on Male / Female Wage Differentials, set up under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness, was chaired by my Department and reported to Government in November 2003 on actions required to address the gender pay gap. Their research found that increased labour market participation by women was an important step in reducing the pay gap. The report contained a number of recommendations addressing a wide range of Government policies including:

taxation

statutory minimum wages

education and training and

the development of family friendly policies.

We have acted on these recommendations and the indications are that Ireland has made considerable progress in relation to the gender pay gap with a significant narrowing of the gap in recent years. Recently published Eurostat figures indicate the Irish gender pay gap to be 9%, which is well below the EU average of 15%. It compares well with many other countries including Germany (22%), the United Kingdom (20%) and Sweden (16%). While Eurostat note that the statistical survey from which the figures are extracted —Statistics on Income and Living Conditions (EU-SILC) — are provisional and subject to further quality assessment, it is informative to note that the Irish gender pay gap has, according to Eurostat, fallen from 22% since 1999.

The recent reductions in the gap are attributable to a number of factors including;

the introduction and regular revision of the National Minimum Wage

the implementation of legislative provisions

the introduction of the Equal Opportunities Child-care Programme

part-individualisation of the taxation system

increases in child benefit payments and

the continued strength of the Irish economy and the underlying strong demand for labour.

My Department has provided funding of over €25m, under the Equality for Women Measure (EWM) in the National Development Plan 2000-2006, to more than 100 organisations for the delivery of positive action projects for women in their communities, in work, in decision making areas, in education and in training. The projects have included proposals aimed at addressing the glass ceiling (the barrier to career advancement) and horizontal segregation in the labour force.

To build on the work already done, funding of over €126 million is being provided under the National Development Plan 2007-2013 for measures to improve gender equality. The aim is to continue to address the need for measures to improve equality between men and women and to tackle educational and social barriers to women entering and progressing within the workforce with particular focus on disadvantaged women.

This multifaceted response which the Government is taking in addressing the gender pay gap will be developed further in the National Women's Strategy which I expect to publish very shortly. The Strategy's development was overseen by an Inter-Departmental Committee of Senior Officials, under the chairmanship of my Department and was the subject of a consultation process with the social partners. One of the Strategy's main objectives will be to reduce the gender pay gap.

With regard to research on this subject, I can inform the Deputy that other than the Consultative Group on Male/Female Wage Differentials, my Department has commissioned the ESRI to undertake a number of pieces of research on the gender pay gap. The first study in 1994 quantified for the first time the size of the gap across the whole economy. A further ESRI study in 2001, entitled ‘How Unequal', focussed on quantifying the gender pay gap at national level in Ireland and identified how it relates to patterns of labour market participation. The latest ESRI research, entitled "Degrees of Equality : Gender Pay Differentials among Recent Graduates", published in 2005, examined the gender pay gap among male and female graduates who had left third level education in 2001. The study suggested a need to focus on the processes of early career integration and career choices.

In an international context, my Department represents Ireland on a number of EU committees relating to gender matters which play an important role in researching the causes of the gender pay gap and in advising on measures to reduce it. In this regard, my Department led an EU project in 2001 – 2002 along with Northern Ireland, Sweden and Finland. Ireland's research, conducted by Indecon International Economic Consultants, described in detail the extent of the gender pay gap and gender segregation in the IT, Electrical and Electronic, Retail, Food, and Local Government sectors of the Irish economy.

As the Deputy will realise, the work of the Government and my Department in this complex matter has produced considerable success and I expect that with a continued focus on addressing the component causes of the gender pay gap we will continue to reduce it in the coming years.

Anti-Social Behaviour.

Liz McManus

Question:

36 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons given anti-social behaviour warnings since the new system came into operation on 1 January 2007; the number of anti-social behaviour orders sought in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12914/07]

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

I refer the Deputy to my answer to Question No. 12 of today's date.

Criminal Assets Bureau.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

37 Mr. Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action he will take following the recommendation from the Joint Committee on Arts, Sport, Tourism, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs that the Criminal Assets Bureau should be able to take possession of pubs and clubs in which drugs are repeatedly sold; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12993/07]

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

The recommendation, which was made in a Report of the Committee published last month, along with the other recommendations made by the Committee which affect my Department, are being examined in my Department.

Telecommunications Interception.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

38 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if any member of Dáil or Seanad Éireann has or has had their telephones intercepted under the legislation in the past five years; if so, the number of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13037/07]

Jerry Cowley

Question:

126 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of communication interceptions made since the introduction of the legislation; if he will he provide the information listed on a yearly basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13338/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 126 together.

The interception of telecommunications is governed by the provisions of the Interception of Postal Packets and Telecommunications Messages (Regulation) Act 1993.

It is not the practice and it would be contrary to the public interest to disclose details of any authorisations to intercept, including their number. I am sure that, on reflection, the Deputy will appreciate that that practice, which has been followed by my predecessors, arises for sound security reasons and that it would be regrettable for anyone to seek to take advantage of that to make suggestions for which there is no basis.

Prison Medical Service.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

39 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the delay in finding a replacement to fill the part-time psychologist position at the Midlands Prison which has been vacant since summer 2006, leaving one full time psychologist to cater for in excess of 450 prisoners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12995/07]

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

The Irish Prison Service Psychology Service is currently at its highest ever level of staffing, with 16 posts filled. This represents nearly a 100% increase in the number of psychologists working in the IPS since 2002. A significant factor in this increase has been the broadening of the recruitment base of the service, to allow for the recruitment of counselling and forensic psychologists, as well as clinical psychologists, to the IPS.

Historically however, the Irish Prison Service has encountered great difficulty in filling psychology posts in certain geographical areas. One of these is the midlands area. Neither the recruitment competition undertaken by the Public Appointments Service (PAS) in June 2006, nor the subsequent competition, undertaken by the Prison Service in September 2006, seeking to recruit a psychologist to work on a contract basis, were successful in filling a post in the midlands area.

Given this situation, the Prison Service has had to consider alternative means of enhancing psychology service provision to the Midlands Prison. With this in mind, a Clinical Psychologist, who has recently taken up a post in Limerick Prison, will be providing an outreach service to the Midlands Prison commencing later this month. This will support the psychologist currently operating in the prison.

The experience of Midlands Prison is indicative of the tight labour market for psychologists in which the Prison Service continues to operate. In the market for psychologists the Prison Service is in competition with other public bodies when trying to attract recruits. Prison presents a very challenging environment to work in and understandably many psychologists prefer to work in less stressful settings. In light of the failure of both general and contract recruitment efforts for services to this particular prison the Director General of the Irish Prison Service is now considering alternative approaches for improving service levels there.

Prison Building Programme.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

40 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to a recent newspaper report (details supplied) which says that a site adjacent to Thornton Hall was sold for around €100,000 per acre, approximately half the price paid for the Thornton Hall site; if he will confirm that this site was also short listed for the possible prison; the reason this site was rejected; his views on whether the Thornton Hall site represents value for the taxpayers money; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12903/07]

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

A 120 acre site at Corrstown was one of a number of sites selected for a detailed examination and rejected by the Mountjoy Complex Replacement Site Committee which consisted of officials of the IPS, the Dept of Justice Equality and Law Reform, one of the Commissioners for Public Works and an outside valuer. The examination by consulting engineers led to its being rejected as being unsuitable for the development of a major prison complex. The road access was not acceptable for a prison development, the shape of the site was not compatible with the intended campus layout and the land was undulating and would require considerable excavation to allow for necessary development.

The Committee concluded the purchase of a site, that was not fit for purpose, would not have represented value for the taxpayer's money regardless of the price paid. The Thornton site in contrast is an excellent site which provides good value for the taxpayer.

No land that was suitable for a prison and which was nearer to Dublin was identified by the committee as available for purchase at a lesser price and no such land has, to the knowledge of the Department or the IPS changed hands at less than €200,000 per acre since the purchase of Thornton.

Garda Strength.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

41 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of An Garda Síochána, the number of juvenile liaison officers and the percentage of the Force this represents in respect of 2007 and each year since 2002; the reason there has been no increase in the number of JLO’s despite the increase in the overall strength of the Force; his plans to increase the number of JLOs in view of the proven success of their work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12930/07]

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

As the Deputy is aware the allocation and deployment of members of An Garda Síochána is a matter for the Garda Commissioner. In that context, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of An Garda Síochána as at 30 March 2007 was 13,173. I also understand that the Commissioner is making arrangements for the recruitment of an additional 28 Juvenile Liaison Officers over the period 2007-2010 inclusive.

The information sought by the Deputy is given below.

Year	Strength	No. of JLO’s	% of Total
2002	11,895	93	0.8
2003	12,017	93	0.8
2004	12,209	94	0.8
2005	12,259	95	0.8
2006	12,990	95	0.7
2007	13,173	95	0.7

In addition to this the National Juvenile Office has a staff of 1 Superintendent (Director of the Diversion Programme) 1 Inspector, 3 Sergeants and 1 Garda.

The Garda Commissioner has informed me that 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.

Departmental Investigations.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

42 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received the report he sought from the Garda authorities into the handling of a case (details supplied); the terms of reference of the inquiry he has asked to be carried out; when he expects to receive this report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12909/07]

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

The substantial dossier handed over by legal representatives of the person central to the case referred to by the Deputy contains details of allegations of a substantial number of serious offences perpetrated against that person and other persons over a prolonged period.

The dossier has been carefully considered by officials in my Department. As part of that consideration it was forwarded to the Garda authorities for examination and report. The Garda authorities have now completed their examination and submitted a report to my Department.

I have considered this matter in the light of the report and the recent verdict of an inquest jury. As a consequence, I have asked Mr Patrick Gageby SC to conduct a review of the Garda files in this case, and he has agreed to do so.

Discussions are currently taking place between officials of my Department and Mr Gageby and the legal representatives of the person referred to on the terms of reference of the review. I expect to finalise the terms shortly and the review to get underway soon thereafter. I will be requesting a report as soon as possible.

Garda Strength.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

43 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of recruits who have graduated from the Garda Training College as full Garda members since 6 June 2002; the number of gardaí who have retired, resigned or otherwise left the force since 6 June 2002; the number of fully qualified gardaí at the latest date for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12931/07]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 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.

I am further informed that a total of 3,440 recruits have been attested to the Force since 6 June, 2002. 2,031 members (all ranks) have resigned, retired or otherwise left An Garda Síochána since 6 June 2002.

Garda Deployment.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

44 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is intended to act on the recommendation made in the recent report of the National Advisory Committee on Drugs that Garda management should provide the optimum number of personnel needed in drug units at Garda district and divisional level to reflect the evolving drug markets and local drug prevalence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12917/07]

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

I can inform the Deputy that senior management from both An Garda Síochána and my Department report directly on an ongoing basis to my colleague Minister of State, Mr. Noel Ahern T.D. at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in relation to the implementation of the recommendations contained in the recent joint report of the National Advisory Committee on Drugs and National Drug Strategy Team to which she refers.

As the Deputy will appreciate, policing operations and the deployment of Garda resources are matters for the Garda authorities. It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within divisions on a priority basis in accordance with overall policing requirements.

In December, 2006, as part of a package of anti-crime measures, I secured Government approval for the continuation of the existing Garda recruitment programme to achieve a total Garda strength of 15,000.

Additional Garda resources are coming on stream all the time, with an accelerated intake of approximately 1100 new recruits per annum into the Garda College which will continue until the target of 15,000 is met.

These additional resources will facilitate the Garda Commissioner in the allocation of additional manpower to areas most in need, including areas with a significant drug problem.

Human Rights Issues.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

45 Mr. Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the Government’s continued resistance to signing and ratifying the Convention on Rights of Migrant Workers and their Families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12994/07]

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

The Ministers for Foreign Affairs and Enterprise, Trade and Employment have previously set out the Government's position in this matter in reply to previous Parliamentary Questions. The Government believes that it is not appropriate at this time for Ireland to become party to this UN Convention.

The Convention is a broad instrument covering many different fields and would require a significant commitment across Government Departments to implement legislation which would reflect the Convention's nuances on legal and illegal workers. The Convention covers such areas as authorisation to stay and to work, education, training and integration, family reunification, social security, transfer of income and taxation, housing, health and medical care and electoral matters.

My own Department is concerned that a significant portion of this UN Convention does not distinguish between legal and illegal, or documented and undocumented migrants. In effect the Convention obliges countries to provide entitlements to workers about whom they have no information and who have entered a state illegally. I would have grave concerns as to the effect of this provision on encouraging illegal immigration into this State, in spite of the perceived safeguard in Article 68. I would suggest to the Deputy that it is highly significant that no EU Member State has yet signed or ratified the Convention. Its provisions for combating illegal immigration, which effectively amount to only one article, are largely untested.

My Department is also mindful of the common travel arrangements with the UK and Ireland's position within the EU. In respect of the Common Travel Area, we would have serious concerns about entering into a largely untested international migration treaty which could have possible negative effects on illegal immigration flows between the two jurisdictions. Similarly we could not conceivably enter into a migration treaty to which none of our EU partners are party. Such an action may prejudice our position on participation in future EU migration policy initiatives, in particular those which may deal with illegal immigration.

The rights of legal migrant workers and their families are already comprehensively protected by existing legislation, the Constitution and existing international treaties to which the State is already party. I am not aware of any significant human rights deficit affecting migrant workers in Ireland which requires remedy by ratification of this UN Convention.

Domestic Violence.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

46 Mr. Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a progress report on a promise made (details supplied) during a Sinn Féin Private Members’ business debate on domestic violence that the Government will establish a Domestic Violence Agency. [12980/07]

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

Taking into account the considerations of the National Steering Committee on Violence Against Women and the Inter-Departmental Committee on the National Women's Strategy, arrangements are being made in my Department for the establishment of an Office to provide a co-ordinated "whole of Government" response to violence against women. The details regarding these arrangements will be announced shortly.

Garda Deployment.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

47 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the €3.85 million cost of security at Shannon Airport in 2006 was a justified burden for the Government to impose through its foreign policy choices on the Irish taxpayer. [12982/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that Garda policing arrangements at Shannon Airport in 2006 cost approximately €3.85 million, a figure which includes normal salaries.

The Garda Síochána is statutorily required to provide policing services for the State with the aim of preserving public order and protecting life and property. In this regard, Garda resources are allocated by the Commissioner, according to, inter alia, assessed threat, so it is the latter which ultimately determines the associated costs. In this context, the continuance of the ongoing policing arrangements at Shannon Airport are considered essential for the integrity of the airport itself and of both its employees and clients. In the circumstances, I do not accept the premise of the Deputy's question. Accordingly, I remain satisfied that Garda policing arrangements at Shannon Airport continue to be both necessary and appropriate.

Garda Inspectorate.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

48 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the report of the Garda Inspectorate on the study it carried out into the findings of the Barr Report on the shooting of Mr. John Carty; if the recommendations made in the report will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12908/07]

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

I welcome the Garda Síochána Inspectorate Review of Garda Síochána Practices and Procedures for Barricade Incidents. The review makes a significant contribution towards the enhancement of the capacity of the Garda Síochána to manage barricade incidents. In particular, it affords an opportunity to learn from the experience of the shooting at Abbeylara so that such deaths can, to the extent humanly possible, be avoided in the future.

The Garda Commissioner has also welcomed the report, and has already established an implementation group, headed by an Assistant Commissioner, to oversee the implementation of the recommendations.

The report acknowledges that considerable progress has been made by An Garda Síochána since the Abbeylara incident in 2000. Indeed, significant developments are currently under way on key issues in the report. In relation to digital radio, for example, implementation of the new digital radio service has already commenced and the preferred bidder is now installing the service in a large area in North Dublin to demonstrate the performance of the system. Over 2,500 protective vests, providing ballistic and anti-stab protection, have been issued to Gardaí in recent months. Distribution is continuing and every Garda will have this protection by the middle of this year. On tactical firearms training, 250 acres of land have been purchased near the Garda College at Templemore for this and other training purposes. A firing range will also be built as part of the new Forensic Science Laboratory at Garda Headquarters.

In the past week I secured Department of Finance sanction for the Commissioner to advertise for state-of-the-art modular live firing ranges that can be delivered within months. I understand that the Commissioner is drawing up urgent plans for a firing range at the major site recently acquired near Templemore for the new Garda centre of excellence.

The Garda Inspectorate recommended that a second tier response capability should be established for rapid deployment to critical incidents in regional areas pending the arrival and full deployment of the ERU. In this respect the Commissioner had already moved to form Regional Primary Response Teams for this purpose in each of the regions outside Dublin. These teams will be drawn from the existing Regional Public Order Units and the Gardaí involved will receive additional relevant training to fulfil this role.

With regard to the Inspectorate's recommendations on less lethal weapons, I have authorised the Commissioner to add Conductive Electric Devices (sometimes referred to as the brand name ‘TASER') to the less lethal weapons already available to the ERU for use where necessary to avoid the use of firearms. I have also authorised the availability to the new Regional Primary Response Teams of the three less lethal weapons already available, that is bean bag shot, pepper spray and pepper spray shot.

The Inspectorate recommended that pepper spray should be made available to all Gardaí on operational duty and the Garda Commissioner is currently assessing the operational case for such availability.

These and other developments will substantially develop the capacity of the Garda Síochána to respond to barricade incidents, but clearly the questions raised by the Abbeylara incident require the comprehensive implementation of all of the recommendations of the Garda Síochána Inspectorate. The Garda Commissioner has committed himself to this, and implementation is under way.

Violence Against Women.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

49 Mr. Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will publish the National Steering Committee on Violence Against Women’s strategic plan; the groups involved in drafting this plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12935/07]

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

My Department commissioned consultants to draw up a new strategic action plan to guide the work of the National Steering Committee on Violence Against Women (NSC). The consultants commissioned to draw up the plan were Centre for Corporate Community. The NSC also set up it's own Advisory Body, comprising NSC members, to provide them with guidance on the Strategic Plan.

The draft strategic plan was considered by the NSC at it's meeting on 21st February, 2007. The Advisory Body raised a number of concerns regarding the plan and it was agreed that the plan required further consideration by the NSC.

When the NSC has completed its deliberations, a decision will be made regarding publication of the plan.

Prison Accommodation.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

50 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the efforts being made to alleviate the ongoing problems of overcrowding in Cork Prison; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12996/07]

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

The total number of prisoners in custody on 2 April, 2007 was 3,283 compared with a bed capacity of 3,416. This represents an occupancy level of 96%.

The prison system is, of course, subject to peaks and troughs. Numbers are particularly high when the courts are at their busiest, giving rise to a high number of committals. This is not unusual at this time of year. As a result, almost all of the closed institutions, including Cork Prison, come under pressure. In order to address this problem, the Irish Prison Service approves regular transfers out of affected prisons to other locations in order to prevent unacceptable occupancy levels.

In the long term, the Deputy will be aware of my intention to replace Cork Prison with a new facility in the Munster area, which will make a substantial contribution to addressing accommodation issues for prisoners in the province.

Garda Equipment.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

51 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason it has taken a total of six years to reach the point whereby the Tetra consortium have been awarded the tender to pilot the national digital radio system for An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12986/07]

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

The new Digital Radio Service for An Garda Síochána is currently being implemented. This is a nationwide system that will be used by An Garda Síochána and by the other emergency services. It will enable instant and secure communications not only between Garda members but also with the emergency services, and where necessary with the PSNI. It will also provide Gardaí with a key safety feature – the ability to summon assistance at the push of a button and identify the location of that person.

Following the completion of the Garda pilot which confirmed that a specific technology being tested — Tetra — was suitable for the Force, the Garda Authorities prepared a detailed business case with various procurement options for nationwide deployment of a digital radio system for the Force. In consultation with the Department of Finance it was decided to both broaden the scope of the project to include the other emergency services and also to procure the service by way of an outsourced service provision model. I believe the approach adopted of using the outsourced service provision model is the best approach in ensuring value for money for the project as it has the effect of spreading the cost across the various Government organisations. Once these decisions were taken, specifications of requirements covering all emergency services were drawn up including specification of the functionality required, detailed coverage required including in-building and outdoor coverage, vehicular and sea and air support coverage. A tender competition in accordance with EU procurement law was then carried out and a preferred bidder — Tetra Ireland — has been selected.

I am on record as saying that the process has taken much longer than I would have liked. However, I think the Deputy will agree that a service providing Gardaí and other emergency services with critical support, sometimes in life or death situations, is important to get right. The process of implementation is now underway and while the exact timeframe for rollout will be subject to contract negotiations and successful completion of an initial phase of the project, it will be completed within a 2 year timeframe. Indications from the preferred bidder are that rollout will be achieved in a shorter timeframe and as the rollout progresses and radio coverage is available, Garda Divisions will migrate onto the new service.

Question No. 52 answered with QuestionNo. 24.

Garda Complaints Procedures.

Jack Wall

Question:

53 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount paid out either in respect of court awards or out of court settlements for claims taken against members of the Garda in respect of assault, unlawful arrest, or other breach of a citizens right in respect of each year since 2002 to date in 2007; the number of cases in which awards were made by the courts; the number of cases which were settled out of court; the number of such cases pending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12933/07]

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

The information requested by the Deputy in relation to Court awards and out of court settlements in actions taken against members of An Garda Síochána in respect of assault, unlawful arrest or other breaches of citizens' rights is set out in the following table in this answer.

As of 31st December, 2003, there were approximately 750 civil actions taken against members of An Garda Síochána on hand. A detailed breakdown of these actions in the form of the number of allegations of assault, unlawful arrest and other breaches of citizens' rights is not readily available. However, a database introduced in 2002 for the purposes of recording civil actions taken against members of An Garda Síochána, indicates that in 2003 — the first complete year for which a detailed breakdown is available — of the 142 actions initiated or received in that year by my Department, there were 34 cases of alleged assault recorded and 38 cases of alleged unlawful arrest recorded. The remaining 70 cases recorded included allegations of defamation and harassment. In 2004, 127 actions were initiated/received. They included 40 cases of alleged assault and 26 cases of alleged unlawful arrest. In 2005, 109 actions were initiated/received. They include 46 cases of alleged assault and 18 cases of alleged unlawful arrest. In 2006, 139 actions were initiated/received. They included 46 cases of alleged assault and 24 cases of alleged unlawful arrest. In 2007 to date, 38 actions have been initiated/received which includes 11 cases of alleged assault and 6 cases of unlawful arrest.

Civil actions may be taken by the general public against the State for compensation for alleged wrongs and personal injuries inflicted on them by Garda members in the performance of their duties. Since the introduction of the Garda Síochána Act, 2005 the plaintiff no longer needs to name the individual garda in question. The highest percentage of these types of civil actions against An Garda Síochána is in relation to assault and unlawful arrest. The majority of these cases have been settled for less than €25,500. Settlement of cases takes place on the advice of the Chief State Solicitor, the Attorney General and State Counsel.

The Garda Commissioner has informed me that incidents which result in claims against the State in respect of the actions of Gardaí are examined as appropriate with a view to identifying and implementing operational strategies to eliminate or reduce similar claims in the future. The Garda Commissioner has also informed me that the Garda Síochána (Discipline) Regulations 1989 are invoked in appropriate cases where the actions of individual Garda members come into question.

Claims by Civilians following actions by Gardaí in the performance of their duties

Year	(Total Amount)		Assault	Unlawful Arrest	Other
	€		€	€	€
2002	1,240,388.40	Awards	1,270.00 (1)	3,809.21 (1)	56,500.00 (2)
		Settlements	166,924.48 (6)	106,835.58 (10)	185,078.82 (11)
		Costs	230,769.67	148,714.19	340,486.45
		Total	398,964.15	259,358.98	582,065.27
2003	1,276,127.55	Awards	11,000.00 (1)	10,000.00 (2)	4,870.00 (2)
		Settlements	75,000.00 (4)	303,011.00 (5)	112,814.84 (4)
		Costs	145,561.70	71,794.28	542,075.73
		Total	231,561.70	384,805.28	659,760.57
2004	938,799.09	Awards	15,000.00 (1)		3,215.06 (1)
		Settlements	198,697.48 (5)	73,007.00 (5)	50,500.00 (3)
		Costs	231,646.62	100,019.36	266,713.57
		Total	445,344.10	173,026.36	320,428.63
2005	4,870,233.53	Awards	1,000.00 (1)	2,025,321.00 (3)	85,125.00 (2)
		Settlements	130,250.00 (7)	1,569,114.00 (9)	58,000.00 (2)
		Costs	137,447.90 (10)	658,508.78 (10)	205,466.85 (15)
		Total	268,697.90	4,252,943.78	348,591.85
2006	1,951,984.94*	Awards	18,076.32 (1)	41,443.80 (3)
		Settlements	386,200.00 (17)	622,000 (15)	606,500.00 (8)
		Costs	187,797.28 (11)	60,983.61 (10)	28,983.93 (3)
		Total	592,073.60	724,427.41	635,483.93
2007 as at 30/03/07	513,297.28*	Awards	72,500.00 (1)		70,000.00 (1)
		Settlements	126,500.00 (3)	8,500.00 (2)	75,000.00 (3)
		Costs	53,514.55 (3)	57,432.04 (3)	49,850.69 (5)
		Total	252,514.55	65,932.04	194,850.69

*(Provisional).

The number of cases settled / or awards by the Courts are shown in brackets

Question No. 54 answered with QuestionNo. 21.

Garda Disciplinary Proceedings.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

55 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position, in regard to the new draft Garda Discipline Regulations, which he originally said would be introduced prior to the Dáil Éireann summer recess in 2006 of their consideration by the Garda Conciliation Council; when it is expected that the new regulations will be in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12929/07]

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

The new draft regulations have been put into the Garda Conciliation Council for discussion with the Garda Representative Associations and, in recognition of the fundamental changes now proposed, I have made available additional time beyond the original target date of the Summer recess. I am informed that the Garda Representative Associations have engaged positively in those discussions. I expect that the discussions can be concluded quickly and effectively, and I look forward to bringing final proposals to Government for approval in the coming weeks.

Garda Communications.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

56 Ms C. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations that are equipped with broadband; the number of Garda stations that are equipped with e-mail facilities; if e-mail facilities are restricted to use by a certain rank of Garda; if so, the rank and the reason the restriction applies; if there are plans to introduce broadband and e-mail facilities to all stations and ranks in view of the usefulness of such services in transmitting digital images, scanned documents and so on; if his Department has considered the status of broadband access and e-mail use in other European police services when considering its position on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12846/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the Garda Wide Area Network (WAN) is used to deliver access to the Garda Information System (GIS) which includes, inter alia, access to PULSE, the Garda National Immigration Bureau Systems and Email. The Garda WAN provides network performance levels equivalent to that available via broadband service providers and where the extension of the Garda WAN to specific stations is not economically viable, broadband technology (where this is available) is utilised by the Garda Authorities. Access to the GIS is currently available in over 320 locations.

All Gardaí have access to internal email facilities via the GIS. Access to external email is available to all Gardaí from the rank of Inspector upwards. External email is also made available to Sergeants, Gardaí and civilian staff as operational needs require. I am further informed by the Garda Authorities that a pilot exercise is currently underway to assess how best to maximise the use and facilities of email by the Force.

An Garda Síochána constantly monitor developments in policing methods in jurisdictions across the EU through their involvement in peer group meetings and international policing organisations.

Drugs in Prisons.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

57 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether prisoners who are on methadone maintenance programmes before they start their prison sentence are adequately catered for in prison; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7696/07]

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

The Irish Prison Service Drugs Policy & Strategy — Keeping Drugs Out of Prisons — will see existing drug treatment programmes, including the provision of methadone maintenance programmes where this is clinically indicated, being expanded and enhanced. This expansion will involve the allocation of a range of dedicated staff, including addiction counsellors, to support these various programmes. In 2007 it is envisaged that an extra €2,000,000 will be allocated to support these developments.

Those who have begun to tackle addiction prior to imprisonment will continue to receive support during their time in prison. For those who enter prison with addiction problems, the time spent in prison is an opportunity to deal decisively with both their addiction and offending behaviour. For a number of years it has been Irish Prison Service Healthcare policy, in consultation and liaison with community treatment agencies, that people entering prison on a recognised methadone maintenance programme, should continue on such treatment while remaining in prison, as long as this remains a clinically indicated course. As outlined above the policy currently being rolled out envisages further development in the range of therapeutic avenues available to prisoners to address their substance misuse. Specific developments include:

A tender for 24 Addiction Counsellors to cover all Prisons has been awarded to Merchants Quay Ireland and Counsellors are already coming on stream. This will, in conjunction with other developments, lead to an increase of nearly 1000 hours per week of prisoner access to addiction counselling.

7 Nurse Officers and 5 Prison Officers have been allocated to Dedicated Drug Treatment Teams in prisons with significant needs; this will improve service quality in prisons which receive a large number of prisoner committals with addictions.

The Dormant Accounts Fund has provided funding for 4 community groups to provide addiction counselling and support to prisoners while in prison and on release in the community, this will build on their success in becoming drug free in prison when the prisoner returns to the community.

Additional Consultant in Addiction and Registrars Prisons Sessions have been established and resourced, significantly improving the quality, coordination and availability of drug treatment in prisons.

A Consultant led Infectious Disease Service has been contracted from St James' Hospital to provide treatments to prisoners who suffer from these disease. It is hoped to expand this service to other sites, and a

Tender for Dedicated Drug Treatment Pharmacy Services will issue this month, again supporting improved quality and availability of treatment services.

The policy envisages a multifaceted approach towards tackling the problems associated with substance misuse in the prison environment. There is particular focus on the need to assist prisoners who indicate a serious desire to tackle their drug problem and the policy states that appropriate treatment for substance misuse related problems should be available regardless of where a prisoner is located.

I have obtained significant extra resources to facilitate this and the policy is in the process of being rolled out on a phased basis. While it is intended that any treatment which is clinically indicated as being appropriate and necessary should be available to prisoners this provision will require the coordinated input and co-operation of various agencies, both internal and external. In particular it will require the co-operation of relevant community agencies to ensure the continuity of such treatment on release.

Garda Investigations.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

58 Ms Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made in the Garda investigation into recent allegations that a 14 year old boy in the Dublin area had been sexually abused by a number of men; if the Garda investigation has been concluded; if a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12912/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the incidents referred to are under investigation and on completion of this investigation a file will be submitted to the Law Officers. As the Garda investigation is ongoing, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further at this time.

Garda Deployment.

Willie Penrose

Question:

59 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí currently assigned to community policing; if he will confirm that this represents less than 4% of the overall strength of the force; his plans to increase the number of community gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12921/07]

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

Community Policing is a central feature of current policing policy and members of Community policing units are encouraged to engage with the local communities where they are assigned. Current policing policy is predicated on the prevention of public order offences; the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a quality policing service. All Gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to be involved in Community Policing issues as they arise. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the total strength (all ranks) of dedicated Community Gardaí as at 29 March 2007 was 521, i.e. 4% of the overall strength of the Force. The total personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána as at 29 March 2007 was 13,172. This represents a percentage of 3.95% of the total strength of the Force.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that it is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. Garda Personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

Criminal Prosecutions.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

60 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied at the extent to which persons involved in gun crime including homicides have been detected, charged and sentenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12998/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that all incidents of crime involving firearms are subject to a rigorous investigation. The identification of all evidence available is a key element of the investigation and prosecution process. I am assured that all resources necessary, including national specialist units, are deployed in the investigation process.

When such an investigation is completed an investigation file is prepared for consideration by the Law Officers who direct what charges, if any, are to be preferred against those suspected of being involved in the commission of the crime. Every effort is made to ensure that all suspected offenders are prosecuted but prosecutions can only be taken where the evidence sustains the taking of a prosecution.

All killings, regardless of the circumstances involved, are the subject of rigorous investigation by An Garda Síochána. While the term "gangland murders" tends to be widely used in the media in referring to the nature of certain unlawful killings and speculation in this respect is understandable, it does not reflect the manner in which An Garda Síochána classifies crime or particular offences. Caution is necessary in ascribing particular motives to any particular incident as, potentially, this might jeopardise the procedures which need to be followed for the proper investigation and prosecution of offences.

Operation Anvil is central to the strategy of the Garda Síochána in combating serious crime and in particular murder. The Operation, which commenced in the Dublin Metropolitan Region in May, 2005 and was subsequently extended nationwide at my request, has proved to be very successful in disrupting the criminal activities of a number of key criminal gangs. It has resulted in a number of high-profile arrests and the acquisition of intelligence on the movements of criminals. Notable improvements have been achieved in the recorded number of incidents of crime being targeted by the Operation. In particular, I am pleased to note the increase of 34% in detections of possession of firearms in the fourth quarter of 2006 which I believe has contributed to the reduction of 3.4% in discharges of firearms. I believe that Operation Anvil has also contributed to the increase in that quarter of detections of offences of possession of drugs for sale or supply, which is closely associated with many murders using firearms.

Under the Operation, 74 arrests have been made in connection with murder and 914 in connection with serious assaults. There have been 643 firearms seized or recovered and 26,497 searches for drugs.

The personnel strength of the Organised Crime Unit at the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation has been augmented to address the problem of organised criminal activity. Enforcement by the Unit has resulted in arrests, seizure of firearms and substantial quantities of drugs and the disruption of criminal activities.

On 19 December last, the Government agreed my proposals for an unprecedented package of measures which includes:

A further increase of 1,000 in the strength of An Garda Síochána to bring the total to 15,000 over the next three years;

A proportionate increase in the targeted strength of the Garda Reserve from 900 to 1500;

Sanction for 300 additional civilian administrative support posts for An Garda Síochána;

The recruitment of the seven senior civilian posts recommended by the Garda Síochána Inspectorate and Senator Maurice Hayes;

An increase in the retirement age for Gardaí, Sergeants and Inspectors from 57 to 60;

Increased staffing for the Forensic Science Laboratory, the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Courts Service;

No limit on funds available for the Witness Protection Programme.

As a result of the Criminal Justice Bill 2007 which is currently before the Oireachtas the law enforcement agencies will be in a much better position to ensure that those involved in gun crime will be made accountable for their actions.

I would also like to inform the Deputy that I regularly meet the Garda Commissioner regarding all policing matters in order to keep the measures and resources for tackling crime under continued review.

Garda Inspectorate.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

61 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made in implementing the recommendation of the recent report of the Garda Inspectorate, published on 7 November 2006; if a timetable has been set for the implementation of these recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12923/07]

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

Very significant progress has been made since November 2006 with regard to the implementation of the recommendations contained in the report referred to by the Deputy. I can confirm that an additional Deputy Commissioner was appointed in charge of Strategy and Change Management on the 17th January 2007 and preparations are at an advanced stage to commence the recruitment of a civilian Chief Administration Officer in An Garda Síochána, at a grade equivalent to Deputy Commissioner. The positions of Assistant Commissioner — Professional Standards Unit and Assistant Commissioner — Strategy will be filled in the near future once the interview process has been completed.

An Garda Síochána is also in the process of recruiting senior civilian managers as Head of Media and Public Relations and Directors of Change Management, Human Resources and Information Technology. A model of succession planning for senior members of An Garda Síochána is also being developed as recommended.

A dedicated Human Resource Directorate has been established within An Garda Síochána to serve the needs of the 2,000 clerical, administrative, professional, technical and industrial staff already working in An Garda Síochána and to promote an extensive programme of civilianisation.

In addition to these measures, significant progress is being made on recruitment to a range of key specialised civilian posts. Candidates have been short-listed for interview for 31 new civilian posts in the Garda Telecommunications area and candidates have been invited to interview for the three senior posts for the new civilian Crime Analysis Service, which will have a complement of 29 Analysts.

There is currently a campaign underway to recruit 300 civilian support staff into An Garda Síochána to release Gardai who are employed on clerical administrative duties to operational duties. This process is well underway and interviews are currently being held by the Public Appointments Service to recruit these Clerical Officers. Since the beginning of 2007, 93 Clerical Officers have been appointed to An Garda Síochána. A further 46 have been offered a Clerical Officer post.

On foot of the recommendations contained in this report a new organisational structure has been designed for An Garda Síochána and a transition process to enable the implementation of the new organisational structure has commenced.

The report also recommends a proposed new senior management structure of three Deputy Commissioners (one of whom would be a civilian). Another report produced by the Advisory Group on Garda Síochána Management recommended the creation of a Board of Management chaired by the Commissioner with three Deputy Commissioners (one of whom would also be a civilian). I have addressed these recommendations in the drafting of the Criminal Justice Bill 2007, which is currently before the House. Section 38 of the Bill inserts a new Chapter 3A into the Garda Síochána Act 2005 to provide for the establishment and functions of a such a Board, i.e, a Garda Síochána Executive Management Board. The Board will consist of executive members and three non-executive members. The executive members will be the Garda Commissioner as chairperson, the Deputy Garda Commissioners and a member of the civilian staff of the Garda Síochána, at a grade equivalent to that of a Deputy Garda Commissioner.

The three non-executive members will be appointed by the Government on the nomination of the Minister. They will be persons with expertise in the strategic and financial management of organisations, the management of their human resources or their planning and review functions, or persons with other relevant experience. The non-executive members will serve in an advisory capacity, providing advice in relation to annual policing plans, budgetary matters, allocation of resources, technology and equipment, setting of targets, training, development and leadership and other related matters.

The function of the Board will be to keep under review the performance by the Garda Síochána of its functions and the arrangements and strategies in place to support and enhance the performance of those functions. The Board will also keep under review the corporate governance arrangements and structures within the Garda Síochána, the arrangements for recruitment, training and development and the mechanisms for the measurement of performance and accountability.

The Board will supply reports on the performance of its functions at six-monthly intervals to the Minister and they will be laid before each House of the Oireachtas.

Data Protection.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

62 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm that more than 10,000 requests were made by the Garda during 2006 under the Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 for access to personal telephone records; his views on the view of the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner that such a number of applications suggests that innocent people are having their private records pored over; the breakdown of the requests submitted in regard to those arising from investigations into terrorist offences, drugs offences and other serious offences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12902/07]

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

The retention of and access to telecommunications traffic and location data are governed by the provisions of Part 7 of the Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005. It is not the practice and it would be contrary to the public interest to disclose the details of data access requests, including their number or the types of offences to which they relate.

I do not accept — and, in fact, categorically reject — any suggestion that the provisions of the 2005 Act are being improperly used or that innocent persons have reason to fear for their privacy by virtue of the operation of that Act.

It is important to bear in mind that requests by the Garda Síochána for access to call data — and I emphasise that this does not involve access to the content of telephone calls — are made in the context of investigations into criminal activity. In this regard, Part 7 of the 2005 Act provides that data access requests to telecommunications service providers may only be made for the purposes of:

the prevention, detection, investigation or prosecution of crime; or

the safeguarding of the security of the State.

The Garda Síochána makes such requests only where these conditions apply. Furthermore, these requests are filtered by senior Garda officers before the telecommunications service providers are requested to disclose the data; not all requests by investigating Gardaí result in requests to the telecommunications service providers. It should also be noted that Garda investigations into murders, gun-related crime, so-called 'tiger' kidnappings and drug-related crime tend to generate large volumes of requests, as do investigations into nuisance, obscene or threatening telephone calls.

Finally, Part 7 of the 2005 Act introduced for the first time robust accountability arrangements and counter-balancing safeguards to protect personal data. These arrangements include a statutory complaints procedure overseen by a Judge of the Circuit Court, as well as a statutory oversight procedure overseen by a Judge of the High Court.

Garda Strength.

Willie Penrose

Question:

63 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of the Garda Reserve at the latest date for which figures are available; the number he expects will be in place by 1 June 2007; when he expects that the promised full complement of 1,500 will be in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12922/07]

Ivor Callely

Question:

119 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of personnel in the Garda Reserve force; the progress to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13296/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 63 and 119 together.

The Garda Commissioner is proceeding with the recruitment and training of 1,500 members of the Garda Reserve. The first group of 36 Garda Reserve members completed their training and were formally attested as members of An Garda Síochána on 15th December 2006. They have been deployed in Dublin (Store Street and Pearse Street), Cork (Anglesea Street), Galway City and Sligo.

The second group commenced training in the Garda College at Templemore on 20th January 2007. This group consists of 52 trainees who will be deployed in Blanchardstown, Santry, Dun Laoghaire, Tallaght, Limerick, Clare, Sligo, Galway and Kerry. It is expected that they will be attested in May.

Training for the third group of 35 trainees commenced on 3rd March 2007 and it is expected that they will be attested in June. It is also expected that further groups of Reserve trainees will commence training on a monthly basis. By June of this year there will be three groups of trainees who will have been attested, consisting of up to 123 members.

Further interviews were held in recent weeks for applicants throughout the country and interviews have now taken place in each of the 26 counties. Further interviews will take place over the coming weeks and months.

As the nature of the Reserve is that participation is purely voluntary, I cannot definitively say what any particular future monthly intake of volunteers will be, or exactly when the overall target of 1,500 members will be met. Garda Reserve trainees have work, family and other commitments which they will have to balance with their service with An Garda Síochána. An Garda Síochána is offering maximum flexibility in this regard to accommodate those who wish to put themselves forward for service.

While I am satisfied with the progress being made in the recruitment and training of Reserve members, I consider that the process of initial recruitment can be made more effective with a local dimension. In that context, I have asked the Garda Commissioner to involve local Garda Superintendents directly in local recruitment arrangements to attract suitable candidates from the local community. This will assist in ensuring that the 1,500 target is reached as soon as possible.

The Commissioner has recently appointed a Chief Superintendent to oversee the Garda Reserve on a full-time basis. A Superintendent has also been appointed to this area. I will of course, in conjunction with the Commissioner, keep all procedures relating to the Garda Reserve under review to ensure that target figure of 1,500 is reached as soon as possible.

Garda Investigations.

Ivor Callely

Question:

64 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to fraudulent Internet schemes such as PIPS; the mechanisms in place to address such abuse of the Internet; the need for cross-Department co-operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12842/07]

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

I have been advised by the Garda Authorities that to date, a total of 15 complaints have been received at Kells Garda Station in relation to the operation of a People in Profit System (PIPS). The Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation is assisting in the investigation of these complaints. Gardai have made enquiries with the Malaysian Authorities and are awaiting a response.

An Garda Síochána has received in excess of 25 complaints from members of the public relating to fraudulent withdrawals from their bank accounts, offences which are committed using a technique known as "phishing", a term used to describe the theft or attempted theft of personal information using e-mail and bogus web sites. It is a relatively recent phenomenon.

An Garda Síochána is working with the Banking Industry to counteract this phenomenon. All the Banks offering on-line banking services have posted warning notices on their websites to the effect that this activity is occurring and that members of the public should not respond to any request relating to their personal banking security details.

A High-Tech Crime forum has been established with all relevant stakeholders including An Garda Síochána, the Financial Services Industry and the Banking Sector. This Forum facilitates the rapid dissemination of information related to "phishing" and other methods being used to compromise banking services. Victims of "phishing" are advised by An Garda Síochána and the industry to report any such activity immediately to An Garda Síochána for investigation. Every assistance to recover monies is given by An Garda Síochána to injured parties and their representatives.

Garda investigations to date have resulted in a number of persons being prosecuted for theft offences related to "phishing" incidents in which the proceeds of fraudulent withdrawals have been transferred to an apparently legitimate account which has been used to facilitate the withdrawal of the stolen funds. A number of other similar investigations are ongoing.

An Garda Síochána, through the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation, has participated in a number of initiatives by various Government Departments and the Financial Institutions which have as their primary aim the raising of public awareness of this type of criminality. These include:

A website entitled ‘Safecard', which was launched in partnership with the Irish Payment Services Organisation. This website addresses many issues around payment card fraud, in particular the issue of identity theft. The Garda website (www.garda.ie) also provides advice to members of the public on how to avoid this type of criminal activity.

The ‘MakeITSecure' Programme, in conjunction with the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources which, inter alia, produced advice booklets including one on identity theft, for the public and which have been distributed to every Garda Station.

National Drugs Strategy.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Question:

65 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the continued rise in the use of cocaine reported by the National Advisory Committee on Drugs; if the Garda is taking new steps to halt the spread of cocaine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12916/07]

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

The Government is fully aware of and views with concern the increased prevalence of cocaine usage in recent times in Ireland as is identified in the recent joint report by the National Advisory Committee on Drugs and the National Drugs Strategy Team.

Efforts to tackle the problem are broadly based under the Government's National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008 and include measures aimed at both supply and demand reduction, including awareness initiatives.

This Department's remit under the Strategy, although not exclusively, is primarily in relation to drug supply reduction.

This increasing use of cocaine is, of course, a matter of concern and the Garda authorities have taken a number of measures to address the problem on the supply reduction side.

The Garda National Drugs Unit and local drugs units conduct intelligence-driven operations to target individuals suspected of involvement in the distribution of cocaine.

Drug units and community policing personnel are engaged in intelligence gathering on individuals and groups suspected of involvement in the sale and distribution of the drug. There is also targeted patrolling by uniform and plain-clothes personnel of problem areas in order to detect and disrupt persons involved in such activity.

Garda strategies for dealing with drug offences are designed to undermine the activities of organised criminal networks involved in the trafficking and distribution of illicit drugs.

These strategies include:

gathering intelligence on individuals and organisations involved in the distribution of drugs (including the support structures underpinning this activity);

conducting targeted operations on criminal networks based on intelligence gathered;

working in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies both within and outside the jurisdiction to address the national as well as international aspects of drug trafficking and distribution.

National units, such as the Garda National Drugs Unit, the Criminal Assets Bureau and the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation all have specific roles in reducing drug supply and seizing the ill-gotten gains of drug traffickers. All of these units operate under the direction of the Assistant Commissioner, National Support Services.

These strategies continue to result in operational successes as evidenced by the ongoing high levels of drugs being seized by the Gardai. The trafficking and distribution of all illicit drugs, including cocaine, at local, national and international levels is constantly monitored by the Gardaí.

Sentencing Policy.

Trevor Sargent

Question:

66 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will facilitate the introduction of sentencing guidelines for the Judiciary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12985/07]

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

70 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if in view of the serious public concern regarding the imposition of a three-year suspended jail sentence in a rape case, he has plans for the introduction of sentencing guidelines for persons convicted of such serious crimes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12911/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 70 together.

I cannot comment on individual cases. However, the following are my general remarks on sentencing.

The question of consistency in sentencing and the appropriateness of sentences in particular cases is undoubtedly an issue which raises concerns from time to time. The Courts are, subject only to the Constitution and the law, independent in the exercise of their judicial functions. As the Deputies will be aware the traditional approach to sentencing is for the Oireachtas to lay down the maximum penalty appropriate to a particular offence and for the courts having considered all the circumstances of the case, to impose an appropriate penalty up to that maximum. This approach reflects the doctrine of the separation of powers. The Executive lays down the possible punishment range but it is for the Courts to decide the punishment to be applied to the offender taking account of the seriousness of the crime and all the circumstances of the case and of the offender. There is a small number of situations, however, where statute has intervened to create exceptions to this approach. To add to those exceptions I have provided in the Criminal Justice Bill 2007 for mandatory minimum sentences of at least three quarters of the maximum sentence permissible under the law where a person who has been convicted of a "scheduled offence" (a list of specified offences typically associated with organised crime) re-offends within 7 years of release from prison. In order for this provision to apply the conviction for the first offence must have been on indictment and must have attracted a sentence of at least 5 years imprisonment. Where the second offence carries a potential maximum of life imprisonment, a sentence of at least 10 years must be imposed.

During my Second Stage speech on the Criminal Justice Bill, I made my views on sentencing clear to the House. My preference lies in the development of an effective sentencing jurisprudence from the courts themselves and I reiterate my strong view that collectively and individually the independence of the judiciary is an important value which is enhanced rather than damaged by collective measures taken by the judiciary to ensure consistency, rationality and coherence in sentencing.

As regards consistency in sentencing, the Deputy should be aware that section 36 of the Courts (Supplemental Provisions) Act, 1961 makes provision for meetings of District Court Judges to discuss, inter alia, the avoidance of undue divergence in the exercise of the jurisdiction of the Court and the general level of fines and penalties. While there is no similar statutory provision in the case of other Courts, it is understood they hold similar meetings.

For my part, the Courts and Court Officers Act, 1995 enables me, as Minister, to provide funds for judicial training courses arranged by the judiciary. In this regard, funds are made available to the Judicial Studies Institute, which was established by the Chief Justice for the purposes of judicial training. I understand that the issue of sentencing has been examined by the Institute in the context of its training programme.

The complex question of sentencing policy was addressed at length by the Law Reform Commission in 1996 in a Report which specifically recommended against the introduction of statutory sentencing guidelines. Their Report pointed out a number of differences of opinion among members of the Commission in relation to some of the recommendations in the Report which tends to underline the obvious complexities which arise in relation to sentencing policy.

I should also mention that under the Criminal Justice Act, 1993, the Director of Public Prosecutions may, where it appears to him that a sentence imposed on indictment is unduly lenient, apply to the Court of Criminal Appeal to review the sentence. The issue of extending the power to the Director of Public Prosecutions to appeal against lenient sentences in serious cases before the District Court was referred by the Attorney General to the Law Reform Commission for consideration. The Law Reform Commission report of November 2006 recommends that it is not appropriate to confer such a power at this time but noted that this is a matter which should be kept under review.

A very significant step in the area of sentencing was the decision by the Board of the Courts Service to establish a Steering Committee to plan for and provide a sentencing information system. The Committee, which is composed of four members of the Judiciary and an academic expert, reviewed systems of this nature around the world and decided to establish a pilot project in the Circuit Court in Dublin. I understand that two researchers have begun to collect and collate information on sentencing outcomes in cases on indictment in designated courts in accordance with criteria specified by the Committee.

The objectives of the project are to:

identify criteria and other information employed by the judiciary in sentencing for particular offence types in criminal proceedings,

record and retrieve such information in individual cases,

design and develop a database to store the information retrieved and enable its retrieval in accordance with various search criteria,

share or disseminate the information, utilising information and communications technology, via a judges' intranet or other means, and

assemble appropriate material on sentencing for a benchbook and website.

The work of the committee is still under way and I look forward to seeing the outcome of the research. It is right that we have a systemic form of information as a reference point for Judges.

Violence Against Women.

Jack Wall

Question:

67 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department has communicated with the NDVIA on his Department’s ongoing review of the work of the NDVIA; when this review will be completed; when he will make a decision on the long-term funding of the agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12934/07]

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

My Department is in the process of completing its examination of the final report of the National Domestic Violence Intervention Agency (NDVIA) on its pilot project.

Following delivery of the report, my Department, in consultation with the NDVIA, made available further funding for the project on an interim basis. However, the Deputy will appreciate that no decision can be made on funding for the longer term, until the review has been completed.

A related matter is that arrangements are being made in my Department for the establishment of an Office to promote a co-ordinated "whole of Government" response to violence against women. The details regarding these arrangements will be announced shortly, and the form that the response takes will substantially shape national policy in the area for the future.

Legislative Programme.

John Gormley

Question:

68 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his proposals for an Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill will include a marriage bar for certain foreign nationals who wish to marry each other or Irish and EU or EEA citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12987/07]

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

The Scheme for the Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill which I published in September 2006 contains provisions regulating marriage of foreign nationals in the State. It is incorrect to represent this as a "marriage bar": it is a regulatory process.

Immigration Controls.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

69 Mr. Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the situation with arrivals from Bulgaria and Romania, including the number of people who have arrived from each country; if data is being collected on the purpose and dispersal of these new arrivals; and the procedures in place to integrate these new arrivals and the services that are available to them. [13039/07]

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

I assume the Deputy is referring to arrivals since 1 January 2007 when Bulgaria and Romania joined the European Union. In terms of immigration procedures and controls, all European Union citizens coming to Ireland, including Bulgarian and Romanian nationals, are covered by the European Communities (Free Movement of Persons) (No.2) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 656 of 2006). Those Regulations transposed into Irish law the European Directive 2004/38/EC on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States.

In summary, the Regulations mean that visa requirements will no longer apply to Bulgarian and Romanian nationals and they will be able to enter the State on production of their passport and/or national identity card and they may reside here for up to 3 months without conditions. That is the situation which applies to all EU citizens. After 3 months, any EU citizen in the State must be either;

in lawful employment or

self-employed; or

enrolled on a course of study or vocational training and have comprehensive sickness insurance; or,

be self-sufficient and have comprehensive sickness insurance.

The only restriction on Bulgarian and Romanian nationals, in contrast with other EU citizens, is that in accordance with the Government's decision of 24 October 2006 they continue to require employment permits in order to participate in the Irish labour market unless they were already granted the right to work here for an uninterrupted period of 12 months or longer and availed of that right, or are otherwise exempt.

The Regulations do not provide for the registration of EU citizens with the immigration authorities i.e. the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service or the Garda National Immigration Bureau. Consequently, data are not available on the number of Bulgarian and Romanian nationals, or other EU citizens, arriving in the State.

In terms of integration and services, it should be noted that Bulgarian and Romanian nationals are present in the State on the same basis as other EU citizens, apart from the labour market restriction. EU citizens to whom the Free Movement Regulations apply can carry on in a self-employed capacity, any business, trade or profession, have access to training and education in the State and are generally entitled to receive the same medical care and services on a like basis with Irish citizens.

Question No. 70 answered with QuestionNo. 66.

Garda Investigations.

Séamus Pattison

Question:

71 Mr. Pattison asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda has concluded its investigations, initiated as a result of a complaint made by the Secretary General of his Department, into the alleged leaking of a draft copy of the Report of the Commission of Inquiry into the Dean Lyons case; if a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12905/07]

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

I have been advised by the Garda Commissioner that the Garda investigation into this matter is currently ongoing on conclusion of which, an investigation file will be submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Anti-Racism Measures.

Seán Crowe

Question:

72 Mr. Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the integration policy being prepared by the Reception and Integration Agency; when it will be made public; and the form it will take. [13038/07]

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

As in all countries, integration policy is constantly being developed and updated in line with changing demographics and the emerging challenges of multicultural societies. Building on the integration frameworks set out in the National Action Plan against Racism, integration policy is now being further developed to ensure that these challenges are fully met.

The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of which the Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) is a part, has intensified its policy development process and is involved in a range of ongoing strategic studies geared to informing policy development in this area.

These initiatives are being reinforced by a series of stakeholder dialogues taking place throughout this year. The first of these took place last February with a major conference on integration policy in Dublin Castle attended by a wide variety of Irish stakeholders and international experts.

In March of this year, the Government approved the establishment of a cross-Departmental group chaired by the Department of An Taoiseach to assist the INIS in carrying out a review of existing integration policy and to provide an initial assessment of future policy options. The group has already had its inaugural meeting and it is expected that an initial report will be submitted to Government within the next two months.

Pension Provisions.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

73 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a decision has been made on the request of Circuit Court Judge, Brian Curtin, for early retirement on health grounds under Section 6 of the Courts (Establishment and Constitution) Act 1961; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12925/07]

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

The former Judge Brian Curtin resigned as a Judge of the Circuit Court on 13 November 2006. Subsequent to his resignation, an application was made on his behalf for payment of pension on grounds of permanent infirmity. In accordance with standard public service procedures, the application was referred to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) for consideration. The CMO has advised that the judge was incapable of discharging his duties and that his infirmity was likely to be permanent. Mr Curtin's solicitor has been informed that payment of retirement benefits has been authorised in accordance with the relevant provisions.

Garda Transport.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

74 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of cars in the Garda fleet; the person who has the contract for maintenance of the fleet; if that contract has been evaluated against value for money; and if it is intended to purchase more Garda cars. [12981/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of cars in the Garda fleet at present is 1,631.

It is the responsibility of the Garda Fleet Management Section to develop policies which will ensure that vehicles are maintained in a proper roadworthy condition. The policy for maintenance of the fleet is, where feasible, to use main dealers for a particular make. This will ensure, as far as is possible, that the maintenance of the vehicle complies with standards set by the manufacturers.

I am further informed that the standard of servicing, cost and value for money are kept under constant review. A request for tenders for the maintenance of the Garda fleet is currently in the final stages of preparation and it is expected that tenders will be invited in the next couple of months.

The Garda Fleet is currently undergoing a major investment programme and an expansion in specific areas which will target organised crime, public order and traffic in particular. The total spend for 2006 on the purchase of 1,378 new vehicles to upgrade the fleet was €27.45 million resulting in the renewal of over half of the entire Garda fleet in just a single year. Further investment is planned for this year including the purchase of cars and additional motorbikes which will make a significant contribution to traffic law enforcement.

Garda Deployment.

Denis Naughten

Question:

75 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he is taking to improve rural policing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12839/07]

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

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.

Proposed Legislation.

Joe Sherlock

Question:

76 Mr. Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to the review of the Domestic Violence Act 1996; if he will publish amending legislation on domestic violence in this session; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12936/07]

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

While the operation of the law on the protection of persons in relationships, whether through the operation of the Domestic Violence Acts or otherwise, continues to be kept under review in my Department, I have no plans at present to amend the relevant legislation.

Domestic violence is a crime and, too often in our society, it is a hidden crime. Government policy fully recognises the need to punish offenders and to support and protect victims. It is for this reason that there is a very substantial range of law that can apply to violence in the home.

Comprehensive protection is afforded to victims of domestic violence in our civil and criminal law statutes, by means of: the Domestic Violence Acts 1996 and 2002; the Criminal Law (Rape) Amendment Act 1990; the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997; the Sex Offenders Act 2001; the Criminal Justice Act 2006 and; the Criminal Law Sexual Offences Act 2006.

Garda Investigations.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

77 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Garda Superintendent appointed to carry out an investigation into the circumstances in which the Gardaí failed to act on information supplied through Interpol from the Austrian authorities regarding the alleged involvement of people based here in a global child pornography ring, has been concluded; if it is intended to publish the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12904/07]

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

As I informed the house in response to Priority Question No 2 of 22 February last a Garda Chief Superintendent has been appointed to carry out a fact finding investigation into the full circumstances of the failure to react to the Interpol communication and the subsequent Garda statement to the effect that such a document had not been received. In addition, the investigation is looking at measures to ensure that the very high volume of information received from international sources is handled effectively. As this investigation is ongoing it would be inappropriate for me to comment further at this time.

Departmental Transport.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

78 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will ensure that the Ministerial and Government fleet are converted to environmentally friendly and more fuel efficient alternatives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11339/07]

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

State cars are placed at the disposal of Government Ministers, and others, pursuant to a long standing arrangement and are supplied to the following: The President, the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, 13 Government Ministers, the Chief Whip, the Ceann Comhairle, the Attorney General, the Director of Public Prosecutions, the Chief Justice, former Taoisigh and Presidents.

The Ministerial fleet contains five hybrid — petrol and electric — cars at present. The requirements for the Ministerial fleet are subject to continuous review and assessment in order to ensure that the most suitable vehicles are purchased having regard not only to emissions and fuel efficiency, but also to the overall cost and bearing in mind the function of the vehicles and their suitability for the specific transport requirements.

Garda Management.

Mary Upton

Question:

79 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made in implementing the recent report of An Garda Síochána Advisory Groups, published on 7 November 2006; if a timetable has been set for their implementation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12924/07]

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

Very significant progress has been made since November 2006 with regard to the implementation of the recommendations contained in the report referred to by the Deputy. I can confirm that an additional Deputy Commissioner was appointed in charge of Strategy and Change Management on the 17th January 2007 and preparations are at an advanced stage to commence the recruitment of a civilian Chief Administration Officer in An Garda Síochána, at a grade equivalent to Deputy Commissioner.

An Garda Síochána is also in the process of recruiting senior civilian managers as Head of Media and Public Relations and Directors of Change Management, Human Resources and Information Technology. A model of succession planning for senior members of An Garda Síochána is also being developed as recommended.

A dedicated Human Resource Directorate has been established within An Garda Síochána to serve the needs of the 2,000 clerical, administrative, professional, technical and industrial staff already working in An Garda Síochána and to promote an extensive programme of civilianisation.

In addition to these measures, significant progress is being made on recruitment to a range of key specialised civilian posts. Candidates have been short-listed for interview for 31 new civilian posts in the Garda Telecommunications area and candidates have been invited to interview for the three senior posts for the new civilian Crime Analysis Service, which will have a complement of 29 Analysts.

There is currently a campaign under way to recruit 300 civilian support staff into An Garda Síochána to release gardaí who are employed on clerical duties to operational duties. This process is well under way and interviews are currently being held by the Public Appointments Service to recruit these Clerical Officers. Since the beginning of 2007, 93 Clerical Officers have been appointed to An Garda Síochána. A further 46 have been offered a Clerical Officer post.

The report also recommends the creation of a Board of Management chaired by the Commissioner with three Deputy Commissioners (one of whom would be a civilian). Section 38 of the Criminal Justice Bill 2007, which is currently before the House, inserts a new Chapter 3A into the Garda Síochána Act 2005 to provide for the establishment and functions of such a Board, i.e, a Garda Síochána Executive Management Board. The Board will consist of executive members and three non-executive members. The executive members will be the Garda Commissioner as chairperson, the Deputy Garda Commissioners and a member of the civilian staff of the Garda Síochána, at a grade equivalent to that of a Deputy Garda Commissioner.

The three non-executive members will be appointed by the Government on the nomination of the Minister. They will be persons with expertise in the strategic and financial management of organisations, the management of their human resources or their planning and review functions, or persons with other relevant experience. The non-executive members will serve in an advisory capacity, providing advice in relation to annual policing plans, budgetary matters, allocation of resources, technology and equipment, setting of targets, training, development and leadership and other related matters.

The function of the Board will be to keep under review the performance by the Garda Síochána of its functions and the arrangements and strategies in place to support and enhance the performance of those functions. The Board will also keep under review the corporate governance arrangements and structures within the Garda Síochána, the arrangements for recruitment, training and development and the mechanisms for the measurement of performance and accountability. The Board will supply reports on the performance of its functions at six-monthly intervals to the Minister and they will be laid before each House of the Oireachtas.

Liquor Licensing Laws.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

80 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will use the powers available to him under Section 22 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2003 to provide for the traceability of alcohol sold for consumption off premises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12910/07]

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

The position is that section 22 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 provides for the making of regulations specifying particulars which are adequate to enable the licensee and the licensed premises concerned to be identified to be affixed to containers in which alcohol is sold for consumption off licensed premises.

While the labelling of containers in which alcohol is sold with a view to combatting under-age consumption is an attractive idea, significant challenges would need to be overcome in order to render it effective in practice. These challenges arise under two headings.

Firstly, practical difficulties will be encountered where several individual containers are packaged together for sale, e.g. an enclosed six-pack of bottles; a plastic-wrapped tray of cans; or a nailed wooden box containing bottles of wine. This raises the important issue of whether the label should be attached at the point of sale or earlier in the supply/ distribution chain. Attaching labels at an early stage would be simpler but this would create logistical difficulties for importers and distributors and lead in turn to increased distribution costs. Moreover, in the case of imports from EU countries, such additional labelling requirements could be regarded as infringing internal market rules relating to free movement of goods.

Also, it would be naive to overlook the possibility of labels being removed, or rendered non-legible, after sale. The possible transfer of the contents from a labelled container to another unmarked container cannot be ruled out either.

Secondly, from an enforcement perspective it is clear that possession by an underage person of a labelled container does not in itself constitute proof that the alcohol in the container had been illegally supplied to that person by the licensee whose particulars appear on the container. It may have been taken from the family home or have been sold to a person over the age of 18 in good faith before being passed on to the underage person. Indeed, a labelled container may have passed through several hands before finding its way into the hands of an underage person.

Issues relating to the evidential value of being found in possession of a labelled container were raised during consultations on implementation of section 22 of the 2003 Act and the matter was subsequently raised with the Office of the Attorney General. The Attorney General's Office has expressed serious doubts about the evidential value of possession of a labelled container and doubt is, therefore, cast on the utility of any regulations that might be made under section 22 of the 2003 Act.

One option that could possibly be considered in the context of future legislation would be a presumption that any alcohol container found in the possession of an underage person had been purchased by that person from the licensee identified on the container until the contrary was proved. However, the Attorney General's Office has also advised that such a proposal would raise serious constitutional issues and would run the significant risk of being found to be inconsistent with Article 38 of the Constitution.

For these reasons, I do not, as I have already stated on a number of occasions, intend to make regulations under section 22 of the 2003 Act at this time. I will, however, give serious consideration in the context of future legislation to any reasonable and workable proposal that would deal with this matter without giving rise to the difficulties that I have already outlined.

Commissions of Investigation.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

81 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received a response from the Garda Commissioner to the copy sent to him of the Report of the Commission of Investigation into the Dean Lyons case; if disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against the Gardaí involved in the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12928/07]

Seán Ryan

Question:

82 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action taken on foot of the report of the Commission of Investigation in the Dean Lyons case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12927/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 81 and 82 together.

I published the Report of the Commission of Investigation into the Dean Lyons case on 1 September 2006. I sent a copy of the Report to the Garda Commissioner for his consideration. An Assistant Commissioner has been appointed to assess the impact of the recommendations of the report for An Garda Síochána with a view to recommending remedial action where necessary. This assessment is ongoing and a report is expected to be submitted shortly.

I also sent a copy to the Expert Group which I established in the light of concerns arising from the Dean Lyons case. The Group will be reporting to me on the adequacy of Garda training, protocols, regulations and procedures, in assessing the fitness of persons to be interviewed and on the recording of any bona fide reservations of an individual member of a Garda investigation team as to the truthfulness or accuracy of self-incriminating statements. The work of the Expert Group is still ongoing. I have already stated publicly that I will publish the report of the Group.

Question No. 83 answered with QuestionNo. 21.

Departmental Staff.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

84 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Taoiseach the average annual salary of a lawyer in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions; the salary scales in respect of legal staff, including the starting salary, the average annual salary of non-legal DPP staff, and the annual cost of running the DPP in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13182/07]

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

85 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Taoiseach the average annual salary of a solicitor in the Office of the Chief Prosecution Solicitor; the salary scales in respect of solicitors, including the starting salary, the average annual salary of non-legal CPS staff, and the annual cost of running the CPS in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13185/07]

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 84 and 85 together.

The average annual salary of lawyers in the Office of the Director of Public is currently approximately €81,210. The current average salary of other staff is approximately €36,870. I propose to circulate with the official report tables which detail all salary scales of professionally qualified legal grades, i.e. solicitors and barristers, within the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. All points on the scales are shown, including the starting points.

The Deputy has asked for details in respect of the Office of the Chief Prosecution Solicitor. It would be more correct to refer to the Solicitors Division of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. The Chief Prosecution Solicitor leads the Solicitors Division. I can inform the Deputy that the average annual salary of lawyers in the Solicitors Division of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is currently approximately €71,290. The current average salary of other staff in the Solicitors Division is approximately €35,910. The running costs of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in the period sought were as follows:

Year	Amount €
2002	23,436,000
2003	26,205,000
2004	28,661,000
2005	30,159,000
2006	31,484,000
2007	6,827,000*

*Estimated to end of March 2007.

The running costs of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions are calculated on a whole Office basis and are not apportioned across the three Divisions of the Office separately. I am therefore not in a position to give figures for the running costs for the Solicitors Division or either for the other two Divisions.

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions	01 Dec 2006	€157,785.00MAX

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Professional Officer Grade II	01 Dec 2006	See below

€116,462.00

€122,095.00

€127,732.00

€133,367.00MAX

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Chief Prosecution Solicitor	01 Dec 2006	€141,451.00MAX

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Principal Prosecution Solicitor	01 Dec 2006	See below

€86,530.00

€90,100.00

€93,680.00

€97,250.00

€100,299.00MAX

€103,512.00LSI1

€106,722.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Professional Officer Grade III	01 Dec 2006	See below

€86,530.00

€90,100.00

€93,680.00

€97,250.00

€100,299.00MAX

€103,512.00LSI1

€106,722.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Senior Prosecution Solicitor	01 Dec 2006	See below

€80,408.00

€83,815.00

€87,202.00

€90,617.00

€93,493.00MAX

€96,477.00LSI1

€99,457.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Prosecution Solicitor (AP1)	01 Dec 2006	See below

€67,283.00

€70,405.00

€72,997.00

€75,575.00

€78,161.00

€79,668.00MAX

€82,243.00LSI1

€84,808.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Professional Officer Grade IV	01 Dec 2006	See below

€67,823.00

€70,849.00

€73,890.00

€76,931.00

€79,941.00

€81,880.00MAX

€84,519.00LSI1

€87,152.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Prosecution Solicitor	01 Dec 2006	See below

€31,453.00	€34,312.00	€37,958.00	€40,745.00	€43,519.00	€46,312.00	€49,095.00	€51,862.00
€61,755.00	€64,066.00	€66,376.00	€68,688.00	€71,000.00	€72,337.00MAX	€74,667.00LSI1	€77,003.00LSI2

Salary Scales for staff appointed on or after the 6 April 1995

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Director of Public Pros. — PPC	01 Dec 2006	€207,613.00MAX

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Deputy Director of Public Pros. — PPC	01 Dec 2006	€166,093.00MAX

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Professional Officer Grade II — PPC	01 Dec 2006	See below

€122,594.00

€128,522.00

€134,455.00

€140,384.00MAX

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Chief Prosecution Solicitor — PPC	01 Dec 2006	€148,895.00MAX

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Principal Prosecution Solicitor — PPC	01 Dec 2006	See below

€91,091.00

€94,842.00

€98,611.00

€102,372.00

€105,577.00MAX

€108,955.00LSI1

€112,334.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Professional Officer Grade III — PPC	01 Dec 2006	See below

€91,091.00

€94,842.00

€98,611.00

€102,372.00

€105,577.00MAX

€108,955.00LSI1

€112,334.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Senior Prosecution Solicitor — PPC	01 Dec 2006	See below

€84,639.00

€88,229.00

€91,794.00

€95,385.00

€98,413.00MAX

€101,554.00LSI1

€104,691.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Prosecution Solicitor (AP1) — PPC	01 Dec 2006	See below

€71,395.00

€74,112.00

€76,834.00

€79,554.00

€82,275.00

€83,864.00MAX

€86,564.00LSI1

€89,271.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Professional Officer Grade IV — PPC	01 Dec 2006	See below

€71,395.00

€74,574.00

€77,780.00

€80,979.00

€84,156.00

€86,190.00MAX

€88,966.00LSI1

€91,747.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Prosecution Solicitor — PPC	01 Dec 2006	See below

€33,116.00	€36,116.00	€39,955.00	€42,887.00	€45,809.00	€48,746.00	€51,675.00	€54,592.00
€65,002.00	€67,437.00	€69,866.00	€72,303.00	€74,736.00	€76,138.00MAX	€78,595.00LSI1	€81,058.00LSI2

Grade Title	Date Effective	Salary
Prosecution Solicitor Contract	01 Dec 2006	See below

€31,453.00	€34,312.00	€37,958.00	€40,745.00	€43,519.00	€46,312.00	€49,095.00	€51,862.00
€61,755.00	€64,066.00	€66,376.00	€68,688.00	€71,000.00	€72,337.00MAX	€74,667.00LSI1	€77,003.00LSI2

Equality Issues.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

86 Mr. Quinn asked the Taoiseach if he has raised or proposes to raise, in the context both of his commitment to a structured dialogue with the churches and of a constitutional requirement that the State must not impose disabilities or make discrimination on the ground of religious profession, belief or status; the extent to which reference should continue to be made in statute law or statutory instruments to the religious profession, status or belief of citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13322/07]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

91 Mr. Quinn asked the Taoiseach if he has raised or proposes to raise, in the context both of his commitment to a structured dialogue with the churches and of a constitutional requirement that the State must not impose disabilities or make discrimination on the ground of religious profession, belief or status, the question as to whether the State should continue to make special and separate provision in its arrangements for input by church bodies, in relation to the ownership and management of institutions funded by the State providing for the education or the health needs of citizens. [13324/07]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

92 Mr. Quinn asked the Taoiseach if he has raised or proposes to raise, in the context both of his commitment to a structured dialogue with the churches and of a constitutional requirement that the State must not impose disabilities or make discrimination on the ground of religious profession, belief or status, the question as to the reason the rules for national schools continue to provide, under an agreement made in 1937 between the Roman Catholic bishops and the INTO, a system whereby national school teachers are employable by reference to their religion and are transferable to other schools by reference to various Departmentally maintained panels all of which are based on considerations as to religious profession, belief or status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13325/07]

The Taoiseach

I propose to take Questions Nos. 86, 91 and 92 together.

The process of structured dialogue between the Government and the churches, faith communities and non-confessional organisations in Ireland was inaugurated with a gathering of dialogue partners at Dublin Castle on 26 February, 2007. This will soon be followed a series of bilateral meetings with the dialogue partners.

I believe that we have a political and civic culture in Ireland that, while holding no institution or individual above the law, respects the place of religious belief and practice. It will be open to all partners as the dialogue continues to express their views on subjects of mutual interest and to bring forward proposals for change. I am aware from the preliminary consultations with bodies on the dialogue process that the issues raised by the Deputy are likely to be of interest to partners in the process.

The secretariat for the dialogue process will be provided by my Department, but it is not envisaged that this process should in any way displace the existing relationships between Departments of State and the dialogue partners nor diminish the responsibility, in the first instance, of Ministers with regard to issues arising in relation to their assigned functions. If the issues suggested by the Deputy should arise, they will be addressed through the appropriate channels. Similarly, the detailed aspects of the issues raised by the Deputy should be addressed to the relevant Ministers.

Private Rented Accommodation.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

87 Mr. Cuffe asked the Taoiseach the number of private rental properties and landlords in the Council of Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown, the four Dublin County Councils and the State in the figures available from the Central Statistics Office from the most recent period for which figures are available. [13393/07]

Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach (Mr. Kitt)

The number of occupied housing units which are rented from private landlords is given in the following table for the counties requested in respect of the 2006 census.

	Private rented unfurnished	Private rented furnished or part furnished	Total Private Rented
State	16,621	128,696	145,317
Dublin	5,474	52,439	57,913
of which
Dublin City	3,186	33,395	36,581
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown	1,093	6,482	7,575
Fingal	677	6,930	7,607
South Dublin	518	5,632	6,150

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

88 Ms Enright asked the Taoiseach the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13166/07]

The Taoiseach

The information requested by the Deputy is outlined in the following tables.

Title	Year	Male	Female
National Statistics Board	February 2006-to date	5	2
	February 2004-February 2006	4	3
	August 2001-February 2004	3	4

Title	Year	Male	Female
*Law ReformCommission	2007	2	3
	2006	2	3
	2005	2	3
	2004	2	3
	2003	2	3
	2002	2	3

*Denotes position at year end.

Title	Year	Male	Female
National Economic & Social Council	September 2006-to date	New Council awaited
	September 2003-September 2006	26	6
	January 2002-March 2003	25	5

Title	Year	Male	Female
National Economic & Social Forum	2007	New Forum awaited
	December 2006	28	34
	September 2006	27	35
	July 2005	26	36
	September 2005	27	35
	October 2005	26	36
	2004	25	37
	2002-2003	35	27

Title	Year	Male	Female
National Centre for Partnership and Performance	2006 to date	9	5
	2002-2005	11	5

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

89 Mr. Gilmore asked the Taoiseach the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13212/07]

The Taoiseach

In respect of the National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO), nominations have been sought from the social partners and appointments to the constituent bodies (National Economic and Social Council [NESC], National Economic and Social Forum [NESF] and the National Centre for Partnership and Performance [NCPP]) will be made once that process is complete.

Appointments to the newly announced Climate Change Commission, to be attached to NESDO, will be made in consultation with the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. There are no further appointments to State boards or other bodies under the aegis of my Department falling to be made between 29 March, 2007 and 4 July, 2007.

Equality Issues.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

90 Mr. Quinn asked the Taoiseach the circumstances in which legislation promoted by his Department was approved that continues to allow for separate provision to be made in law for citizens on grounds of religious faith or lack of religious faith; if he has satisfied himself that adequate effort was made in statute law revision measures promoted by his Department to remove from statute law separate arrangements for persons by reference to their religious identity, for example, references to Jews, Quakers, Moravians, Christians, Catholics, and so on. [13323/07]

The Taoiseach

The Statute Law Revision Bill 2007 is currently before the Oireachtas. The Bill will repeal more than 3,000 statutes enacted before 6 December, 1922. Included in the statutes for repeal are many statutes which differentiate between people on the basis of their religion.

This Bill is a statute law revision measure. As such, it repeals only statutes which are appropriate for repeal, namely, those statutes which have ceased to have legal effect or which are obsolete. Statutes which have some continuing legal effect may not be repealed by statute law revision measures. The current Bill will retain in force more than 1,000 statutes which have (or may have) some continuing legal effect.

A small number of the Acts which will be retained relate to particular religions. The majority of these are statutes relating to the Church of Ireland which date from a time when that was the established church in Ireland. These statutes are being retained because they may have some continuing effect on matters such as the administration of particular churches, or of particular trusts, or of parish boundaries which relate to land ownership. In consultation with the Church of Ireland, these have been selected for retention until alternative arrangements may be made for such matters.

Other retained statutes which refer to named religions are statutes which were enacted at certain points in time to overcome religious discrimination which had previously affected those religions. These include laws making arrangements for validating marriages of people of certain faiths and providing for the giving of evidence by people whose faiths did not permit the making of traditional-form oaths. These various statutes will all be repealed in due course, but only in the context of more wide-ranging repeal and re-enactment measures relating to the relevant areas of law, such as oaths and marriages.

The Government, at my request, has agreed that all of the statutes which will be retained in force by the current Bill will be proposed for repeal in subsequent legislation. That subsequent legislation must first replace with modern legislation those statutes which have continuing legal effect. My ultimate objective is to repeal all legislation enacted before Ireland achieved independence.

Questions Nos. 91 and 92 answered with Question No. 86.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

93 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13164/07]

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

I assume that the Deputy is seeking the number of appointments to State Boards from each gender rather than the number of nominations and I set out that information in the table below. The information is collated on a half-yearly basis. The latest information available is up to December, 2006.

Year	Female	Male
2002	55	97
2003	16	23
2004	30	44
2005	38	81
2006	14	28

Garda Investigations.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

94 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) who died in Garda custody; and the reason the case has taken so long. [13176/07]

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

A Detective Superintendent from outside the relevant Garda Division was appointed immediately after the incident to carry out a detailed investigation into all the circumstances surrounding the person in question's arrest, detention and removal to hospital. The Garda authorities submitted a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions on the matter and furnished a copy to me also. The Director issued instructions that no prosecution should ensue.

An inquest into this tragic death is ongoing at present. As a Coroner's Inquest is an independent inquisitorial process, I am not in a position to comment on the length of time the case is taking. As I stated previously, when the inquest has been completed and a verdict returned I will consider the matter further. A Civil Action has been initiated by the family and this is currently being dealt with by my Department.

Children in Care.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

95 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of Garda time employed in searching for and returning children who have been reported missing from the custody of the Health Services Executive; the steps that have taken to deal with the number of such children reported missing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13177/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Missing Persons Bureau attached to Garda Headquarters is responsible for data relating to missing persons. The District Officer (Superintendent) in the area where the person has been reported missing takes direct responsibility for all issues connected with the investigation in relation to the missing person.

Where any young person under 18 years of age is reported missing the Juvenile Liaison Officer for the area in which the young person resides is notified as soon as possible. The Juvenile Liaison Officer will on receipt of such information immediately communicate any information which he/she believes may be of benefit in tracing such missing persons.

Where the missing person is traced the Juvenile Liaison Officer will, unless otherwise directed, visit that young person and their parents, guardians or other responsible adults and offer appropriate assistance.

The Garda authorities are currently engaged with the Health Service Executive (HSE) in developing a protocol on handling cases where children who are the responsibility of the HSE are reported missing. It is the aim that this protocol will minimise the risk of harm to children when they are missing.and reduce the number of reports of children missing annually.

The calculation of the amount of Garda time employed in the search for and return of children who have been reported missing from the custody of the HSE would require a disproportionate expenditure of Garda time and resources. However I am assured that the Garda authorities are satisfied that adequate resources are available for the investigation and monitoring of incidents where such persons are reported missing.

Garda Equipment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

96 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the non-lethal weapons available for use by members of An Garda Síochána; the number of each category of weapon and its function; if a weapon is routinely carried by a member; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13178/07]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that three types of less lethal weapons are currently available for use by the Garda Síochána Emergency Response Unit. These are bean bag shot, OC pepper spray and OC pepper spray shot.

I announced yesterday that I have authorised the addition of Conductive Electric Devices to the range of less lethal weapons available to the ERU. These devices are sometimes referred to by the brand name "TASER".

Following the establishment by the Garda Commissioner of regional primary response teams in each Garda region outside Dublin to act as initial responders to critical incidents pending the deployment of the ERU, I have authorised the deployment to these regional teams of the three less lethal weapons already available to the ERU – bean bag shot, OC spray and OC spray shot. These new regional teams will be drawn from the regional Public Order Units and will receive additional specialist training.

The function of these less lethal weapons is for use in circumstances where necessary to avoid the use of firearms. The use of firearms is permitted only to repel serious attacks on Gardaí, members of the public or property, or in the arrest or re-arrest of persons involved in serious offences. Strict conditions are laid down, including a requirement in all cases that all other means of achieving the purpose in question have been exhausted, before firearms may be used. The test which currently applies to the use of less lethal weapons that their use is necessary to avoid the use of firearms is, therefore, a high one.

Less lethal devices are not routinely carried by the Garda members authorised to use them as their deployment is intended for critical incidents. I do not propose for Garda operational reasons to disclose the number of less lethal devices available to the Gardaí but I am advised by Garda management that sufficient stocks are available and requirements are constantly reviewed to take account of operational needs.

Ministerial Appointments.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

97 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when it is expected that an Inspector of Prisons will be appointed. [13179/07]

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

The current Inspector of Prisons' term of office is not due to expire until the 24th April, 2007.

As the Deputy will be aware Part 5 of the Prisons Act, 2007, which, amongst other things, provides for the statutory appointment of an Inspector of Prisons, has recently been passed by both houses of the Oireachtas. It is my intention to commence this section of the Act from 1 May, 2007 and to make an appointment soon after that date.

Garda Deployment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

98 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of community Gardaí who live in the community that they serve; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13180/07]

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

I am 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.

Community Policing is a central feature of current policing policy and members of Community policing units are encouraged to engage with the local communities where they are assigned. Current policing policy is predicated on the prevention of public order offences; the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a quality policing service. All Gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to be involved in Community Policing issues as they arise.

Garda management state that the total personnel strength (all ranks) of Community policing on 29 March 2007 was 521. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the information sought by the Deputy in relation to the number of Community Gardaí who live in the communities they serve is not readily available and can only be obtained by the disproportionate expenditure of Garda time and resources.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

99 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of horses kept and maintained by An Garda Síochána; the cost of the Garda Mounted Unit; the number of members assigned to the unit and their respective ranks; and the number of civilian personnel assigned to the unit. [13181/07]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that there are a total of ten horses attached to the Garda Mounted Unit at present. The cost of running the Garda Mounted Unit in 2006 was approximately €1.19 million. The total number of personnel assigned to the Garda Mounted Unit as at the 30th March 2007 was 17, comprising 2 sergeants, 13 Gardaí and 2 civilian personnel.

Garda Equipment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

100 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations equipped with e-mail facilities; the number of uniformed members of An Garda Síochána who have individual access to e-mail; the cost of providing e-mail to members; and the estimated cost of providing e-mail to every member. [13183/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the Garda Wide Area Network (WAN) is used to deliver access to the Garda Information System (GIS) which includes, inter alia, access to PULSE, the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) Systems and email. Access to the GIS is currently available in over 320 locations.

All Gardaí have access to internal email via the GIS. Access to external email is available to all Gardaí from the rank of Inspector upwards. External email is also made available to Sergeants, Gardaí and civilian staff as operational needs require. I am further informed by the Garda Authorities that a pilot exercise is currently underway to assess how best to maximise the use and facilities of email by the Force.

With regard to the question of costs, the Garda authorities inform me that because email was delivered as part of the overall infrastructure underpinning the Garda information systems, the specific cost for delivery of email is not available.

Garda Deployment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

101 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of dogs in the Garda Dog Unit; the cost of running the unit; the number of members assigned to the unit and their respective ranks; and the number of civilian personnel in the unit. [13184/07]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that there are 26 dogs attached to the Garda Dog Unit, 13 of which are general purpose search dogs. The remaining dogs perform specialised search functions related to searches for drugs, firearms and explosives, tactical searches and victim recovery. Although the Garda Dog Unit is primarily based in the Dublin Metropolitan Region it has a national remit and regularly conducts searches in other Garda Divisions.

The cost of running the Garda Dog Unit in 2006 was approximately €1.43 million. The total personnel strength of the Garda Dog Unit as at 30 March 2007 was 16, comprising two sergeants and 14 Gardaí. There are no civilian personnel are attached to the Garda Dog Unit at present.

In addition, a pilot project has been established in the Cork City Division and in the Limerick Division, with a view to full regional expansion of the unit. At present one Garda and two dogs are allocated on a pilot basis to each of these Divisions.

Garda Remuneration.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

102 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the average annual salary of a member of An Garda Síochána; the salary scales in respect of each rank, including the starting salary for a new member; the cost of putting a new recruit through the training process prior to their investiture; and the other average annual human resources costs associated with members. [13186/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the average salary of a Garda member, on the mid point of the Garda pay scale and including rent, boot, uniform and unsocial hours allowances, is €55,636. The salary scale in respect of each rank is as set out in the attached tables. The starting salary for a new member on attestation is €25,288.

The pay and allowances made in respect of Garda trainee on Phases I-III of the Garda Training Programme is €17,416. In addition, the annual cost of running the Garda College, which is responsible for the training of Student Gardaí is approximately €33.4 million. Moreover, a separate budget is provided on an annual basis for Garda training including external training courses. The 2007 training budget amounted to €3.3 million.

Garda	PPC Scales 01/12/2006	Modified Scales 01/12/2006;
	€	€
On attestation	25,288	24,449
After 22 Weeks	27,800	26,882
After 1 Year	29,340	28,366
After 2 Years	31,936	30,884
After 3 Years	35,399	34,231
After 4 Years	37,689	36,443
After 5 Years	39,761	38,442
After 6 Years	41,753	40,371
After 7 Years	41,753	40,371
After 8 Years	41,753	40,371
After 9 Years	41,753	40,371
After 10 Years	41,753	40,371
After 11 Years	43,486	42,046
After 12 Years	43,486	42,046
After 13 Years	43,486	42,046
After 14 Years	43,486	42,046
After 15 Years	43,486	42,046
After 16 Years	43,486	42,046
After 17 Years	45,439	43,936

Sergeant	PPC Scales 01/12/2006	Modified Scales 01/12/2006
	€	€
On appointment	45,879	44,363
After 1 Year	46,998	45,441
After 2 Years	48,164	46,575
After 3 Years	49,436	47,799
After 4 Years	49,436	47,799
After 5 Years	49,436	47,799
After 6 Years	50,726	49,046
After 7 Years	50,726	49,046
After 8 Years	50,726	49,046
After 9 Years	50,726	49,046
After 10 Years	50,726	49,046
After 11 Years	50,726	49,046
After 12 Years	52,830	51,081

Inspector	PPC Scales 01/12/2006	Modified Scales 01/12/2006
	€	€
On appointment	53,118	51,359
After 1 Year	54,026	52,239
After 2 Years	55,529	53,693
After 3 Years	57,233	55,340
After 4 Years	57,233	55,340
After 5 Years	57,233	55,340
After 6 Years	58,942	56,991

Superintendent	PPC Scales 01/12/2006	Modified Scales 01/12/2006
	€	€
On appointment	72,932	70,520
After 1 Year	75,558	73,059
After 2 Years	77,823	75,250
After 3 Years	80,085	77,437
After 4 Years	82,357	79,631
LSI	85,445	82,619

Chief Superintendent	PPC Scales 01/12/2006	Modified Scales 01/12/2006
	€	€
On appointment	87,881	84,974
After 1 Year	91,910	88,869
After 2 Years	96,556	93,363
After 3 Years	102,955	99,547
LSI	105,712	102,216

	PPC Scales 01/12/2006	Modified Scales 01/12/2006
	€	€
Assistant Commissioner	132,102	127,732
Deputy Commissioner	153,473	148,396
Commissioner	213,365	206,626

Domestic Violence.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

103 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of funding for awareness programmes to tackle domestic violence that has been set aside for each of the years 2002 to date in 2007 in line with An Agreed Programme for Government between Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats 2002; the number of such programmes that have been run; the success of such programmes; his views on whether they have had an impact on the level of domestic violence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13187/07]

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

The following funding has been made available by my Department since 2002 for awareness programmes to tackle domestic violence.

Year	Direct Advertising	Grants	Number of Projects/ campaigns
	€	€
2002	30,000	69,000	8
2003	6,500	100,000	16
2004	89,000	87,000	13
2005	133,000	94,000	31
2006	387,000	289,000	40
2007	18,000	12,000	2

The amount of the awareness funding programme for 2007 will, when fully allocated, exceed that of 2006. The information available is that awareness campaigns have led to increases in the levels of reporting of domestic violence.

Garda Deployment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

104 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members assigned to the Garda Water Unit and their respective ranks; the number of civilian personnel in the unit; and the annual cost of running the unit. [13188/07]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 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.

The total personnel strength (all ranks) of the Garda Water Unit as at the 30 March 2007 was three (3) Sergeants and fifteen (15) Gardaí. There are no civilian personnel attached to the Garda Water Unit.

Garda personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

The cost of running the Garda Water Unit in 2006 was approximately €1.78 million.

Courts Service.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

105 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when it is expected that there will be a general reform of the courts system in line with An Agreed Programme for Government Between Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats 2002. [13189/07]

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

The reform of the courts system referred to in the Agreed Programme for Government is well underway. In this regard, I am happy to acknowledge the remarkable development of the courts system since the creation of the Courts Service less than ten years ago.

Notable achievements include the great progress in improving the overall stock of Courthouses around the country. Many of our county town courthouses have been refurbished and other major upgrading works have been completed in places such as Cork, Limerick, Dundalk and Castlebar. Approval has been given to the Court Service to proceed with nine "greenfield" court projects, by way of Public Private Partnership (PPP), as part of a new envelope of €50m for such projects. Construction will begin later this year on a new Criminal Courts Complex for Dublin, which will also be developed as a PPP project.

The increasing workload of the courts demand the provision of adequate judicial numbers. Since 2002, the number of judges sitting in the High, Circuit and District Courts has increased from 108 to 125, an increase of 17 judicial posts. In addition, the Courts and Court Officers (Amendment) Act 2007 provides for a further 14 judges — 6 Judges of the District Court, 4 ordinary Judges of the Circuit Court and 4 ordinary Judges of the High Court. I am confident that the additional judicial resources provided for in the new legislation will have a positive impact on delays and generally speed up the judicial process.

Another notable example of the ongoing reform of the courts was the establishment of the Commercial Division of the High Court, which has its own list based on a general value threshold of €1m. The scope of the commercial list includes business transactions of a very wide variety where the value of the claim is €1m or more. Also included are judicial review cases which relate to major commercial matters. Once entered, cases take 8-9 weeks to reach the hearing date, and are concluded in an average of 11 weeks.

I might also mention the important initiative to tackle the so-called compensation culture in the Civil Liability and Courts Act 2004 and the establishment of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board.

Specific mention is made in the Agreed Programme for Government to weekend and night courts. At present, the District Court in Dublin sits each Saturday and on Bank Holidays. Provincial District Courts sit outside of normal hours at weekends and at night to deal with emergency matters, as required. Experience of the operation of court sittings continues to be reviewed. This is being done in conjunction with legislative measures aimed at increasing the effectiveness of the courts.

The issue of merging the criminal jurisdiction of the Circuit Court and the Central Criminal Court was examined by the Working Group on the Jurisdiction of the Courts established by the Courts Service (the Fennelly Report). They recommended the retention of the Central Criminal Court and the Circuit Criminal Court as separate jurisdictions. There have been significant improvements in relation to delays in cases coming to trial in the Central Criminal Court. In 2003, the average waiting time for a trial in the Central Criminal Court was 18 months. Since then, the average waiting time has been halved and significantly, the Central Criminal Court now sits outside Dublin, where required. The issue will be kept under review in light of the changing circumstances.

Finally, I should add that a Group has been established to consider the question of a general Court of Appeal. The Group is reviewing and considering the necessity for a general Court of Appeal for the purposes of processing certain categories of appeals from the High Court. The Group will also make such other recommendations as are appropriate for the purposes of ensuring greater efficiencies in the practices and procedures of the Superior Courts.

Garda Deployment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

106 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members assigned to the Garda Air Support Unit and their respective ranks; the number of civilian personnel in the unit; the number of aircraft available for use by the unit; and the annual cost of running the unit. [13190/07]

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

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the current strength of the Garda Air Support Unit is one (1) Inspector, five (5) Sergeants and nineteen (19) Gardaí. At present there are no civilian personnel attached to the Unit.

There are three (3) aircraft, one (1) fixed wing plane and two (2) helicopters available to the Unit with a third helicopter due for delivery later this year.

The annual cost of running the Garda Air Support Unit excluding capital purchases is approximately €1.66 million.

Deportation Orders.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

107 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of non-Irish citizens released from prison and subsequently deported in each month of 2006 and 2007. [13191/07]

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

I can inform the Deputy that the information sought is at present being compiled by the Irish Prison Service and the Garda National Immigration Bureau. The provision of the relevant data is complicated by the need to cross reference and check information emanating from their two separate databases. Following this exercise, the information will be matched against the database in the Repatriation Unit of my Department. I can assure the Deputy that this information will be conveyed to him at the earliest possible date.

Prison Education Service.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

108 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the skills programmes that have been put in place in prisons to enhance employment prospects for prisoners on release in line with An Agreed Programme for Government between Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats 2002. [13192/07]

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

The Irish Prison Service places strong emphasis on the provision of vocational training for prisoners. Training activities are chosen to give as much employment as possible for those in prison and to give opportunities to acquire skills which will help them secure employment on their release. The Work and Training programme covers the services necessary for the smooth operation of the prison such as catering and laundry, as well as workshops covering metalwork, printing, computers, Braille, woodwork, construction, clothing manufacture, craft, farming, horticulture, indexing, painting and decorating, upholstery, baking, electronics etc. The programme provides work and training opportunities for prisoners whilst ensuring a high quality of service delivery within the prison. Where appropriate, training is arranged outside the prison environment with external providers and community organisations such as PACE. In this way courses which cannot be made available within the prisons, such as heavy goods vehicle licence courses, can be undertaken by prisoners prior to release giving them the skills to move directly into employment on release. Community assistance programmes and community project work are also carried out.

The Proposal for Organisational Change agreed with the Prison Officers Association provides for a significant shift of resources into vocational training programmes. This involves the provision of dedicated new staffing and funding for the expansion of work training in the prison system, which will result in an increase in the number of authorised work training staff posts from c. 215 to c. 250. Since the conclusion of the Agreement, progress has been made in filling Industrial Manager and Industrial Supervisor posts. Competitions are also ongoing to complete the complement of work and training personnel in all institutions.

During 2006, new workshops and activities were developed in a number of institutions and a refurbishment and equipment replacement programme was implemented in other workshops. Approximately €2m was spent in 2006 on structural works on the kitchens and laundries in a number of institutions which will facilitate the delivery of accredited training to prisoners.

E-College, a FÁS distance learning delivery programme has been piloted in the Training Unit and is currently being extended to St Patrick's Institution. STEPS, a group motivational developmental programme, has been run for a second time in Wheatfield prison. BREAKTHROUGH, another group motivational programme, has recently been delivered in St Patrick's Institution. A three year national apprenticeship professional cookery course commenced in Castlerea Prison in January 2007.

€250,000 has been secured from the Dormant Accounts Fund in 2006 for employability support projects. Under this initiative, two Business in the Community Ireland (BITC) Training and Employment Officers (TEO) will provide full-time information and career guidance and a dedicated training, education and employment placement service to prisoners in the Mountjoy and Midlands campuses. The two TEOs will take up their positions shortly. An EQUAL project is also being funded to develop a self-employment programme which will equip prisoners with the necessary information and skills to set up their own business.

Garda Stations.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

109 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations that still operate green men; the location of these stations and their respective distances from the nearest full-time station. [13193/07]

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

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.

Garda Deployment.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

110 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of dedicated community Gardaí. [13194/07]

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

Community Policing is a central feature of current policing policy and members of Community policing units are encouraged to engage with the local communities where they are assigned. Current policing policy is predicated on the prevention of public order offences; the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a quality policing service. All Gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to be involved in Community Policing issues as they arise. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength engaged in dedicated Community Policing on 29 March, 2007 was 521 (all ranks).

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that it is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. Garda Personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

Garda Stations.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

111 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations that are not open and staffed 24-hours a day; the location of these stations and their respective distances from the nearest full-time station. [13195/07]

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

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.

Prison Education Service.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

112 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of prisoners with limited educational accomplishment in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13196/07]

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

Information relating to those prisoners with the lowest levels of educational accomplishment on committal in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007 are set out in the table below. These figures are based on prisoners' self report information which is recorded in relation to each prisoner on their committal. Following on from this each student coming into the Prison Education Centre will have an individual interview to assess his/her educational needs and interests. Those with literacy difficulties are prioritised and slotted into class almost immediately. Given the stigma often attached to literacy problems and low levels of educational attainment, it is not possible to state definitively the level of literacy in the prison population as many prisoners are unwilling to come forward and share such information. Every effort is made to publicise education and literacy classes and encourage as many prisoners as possible to avail of them.

Education Level	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007
Illiterate	3	3	3	3	3	3
Primary Level	18	18	21	19	20	18
Secondary Level (no certificate)	15	18	21	25	20	20
Total percentage*	36	39	45	47	43	41

*Figures based on non-repeat committal information in each year.

Appointments to State Boards.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

113 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13210/07]

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

As the Deputy will appreciate, vacancies arise and fall to be filled on State Boards and other bodies under my Department's aegis on an ongoing basis. Having reviewed the vacancies which exist or are scheduled to arise during the period in question, the information requested is as follows:

State Board/Body	Vacancies Existing/Envisaged 29 March, 2007-4 July, 2007
Equality Authority	12
Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal	7
Censorship of Publications Board	5
Refugee Appeals Tribunal	1
Interim Legal Costs Regulatory Board	5
Audit Committee of the Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform	4
Parole Board	1
Inspector of Prisons and Places of Detention	1
Irish Legal Terms Advisory Committee	6
Garda Síochána Complaints Board	9

A vacancy also exists on the Board of the Private Security Authority for a Departmental representative which will fall to be filled in due course.

The question of appointments to the Prison Visiting Committees and of Peace Commissioners during the period in question remains under consideration.

I can further inform the Deputy that an appointment has been made to Loughan House Place of Detention Visiting Committee during the period in question (on 29 March, 2007).

Overseas Students.

Olivia Mitchell

Question:

114 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that non EU citizens studying at Irish universities have been asked to withdraw their children from State schools; the legislation that governs this decision; the reason established practice has been changed; and his views on whether this is an acceptable way to treat what are in many cases highly qualified post graduate students and researchers attending universities here and paying the full economic cost. [13275/07]

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

One of the main principles of Ireland's immigration system is that persons coming to Ireland should not be an undue burden on the resources of the State.

In line with this general principle, the established policy in relation to the attendance of overseas students in Irish primary and second level schools is that visas should only be granted to those who are attending fee paying schools on the basis that to do otherwise would give rise to additional demands on the State. For students coming from countries that are not visa required, the position must be consistent with that for visa applicants in that students should only be granted residence permits where they are attending fee paying schools.

The child of an adult student attending an Irish university would be present in the State as a dependant of that parent. That parent would be expected to have sufficient resources to provide for him/herself and any family members while they are in the State. If the child were to be permitted to attend State schools it would be in conflict with the condition of self-sufficiency. The fact that a parent is attending university and paying the costs of that course of study should not in itself permit their child to access State education services.

This policy has not changed in recent times.

In terms of legislation, the basic tenet that a foreign national and any accompanying dependants, should not be an undue burden on the State is reflected in section 4 of the Immigration Act 2004 where it is included as one of the reasons why an immigration officer might refuse a person permission to land or be in the State. That provision was stated in the Aliens Order 1946.

I do not have the details of the specific cases to which the Deputy may be referring but I am generally aware that cases are coming to light of overseas children being placed in state schools in circumstances where this would be contrary to general immigration policy. I have scope, however, to make exceptions to the general policy where it is justified and individual cases can be looked at on their merits, taking account the potential disruption to the education of the parent and child of a negative decision.

A review of the general policy in this area is now underway.

Prisoner Releases.

Ivor Callely

Question:

115 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the percentage of prisoners that are offered temporary release; comparative figures for the period 1994 to 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13292/07]

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

The number of persons on temporary release on 30 March, 2007 was 165 persons. This equates to 4.7% of the total prisoner population, and stands in stark contrast to the position which obtained under the Rainbow Government when the numbers on temporary release stood at around 20% of the prison population. Comparative figures for the dates requested are set out in the following table.

Date	Number on Temporary Release	Percentage of Prisoner Population
		%
30 March, 1994	611	22.2
30 March, 1995	552	20.2
30 March, 1996	477	17.9
30 March, 1997	569	19.2

Crime Levels.

Ivor Callely

Question:

116 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress to address the problem of re-offenders committing an offence while on bail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13293/07]

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

I am proposing a number of amendments to the law on bail in the Criminal Justice Bill 2007 which is currently before this House.

As the Deputy will be aware, the bail system operates under a general presumption in favour of granting bail, on the basis that the person is innocent before the law until proven guilty.

Two statutes are particularly relevant to the operation of the arrangements for bail. The Bail Act 1997 amended the bail regime generally and gave effect to the terms of the Sixteenth Amendment of the Constitution. Section 2(1) of the Act provides for the refusal of bail to a person charged with a serious offence where it is reasonably considered necessary to prevent the commission of a serious offence by that person. For this purpose a serious offence is defined as one which caries a penalty of at least 5 years imprisonment on conviction and which is listed in the Schedule to the Act (e.g. murder, manslaughter, sexual offences, drug offences). The Act was brought fully into operation on 15 May 2000.

Furthermore, the Criminal Justice Act 1984 provides that any sentence of imprisonment passed on a person for an offence committed while on bail shall be consecutive on any sentence passed on him or her for a previous offence.

Part 2 of the Criminal Justice Bill 2007, currently before this House, introduces several initiatives designed to improve the operation of the bail system and to provide the prosecution authorities with more opportunity to oppose bail applications where there is considered to be a likelihood of the applicant offending while on bail. Section 6 provides that the applicant for bail may be required to provide a statement on his or her assets and income, as well as details of criminal convictions (including convictions for any offences committed while previously on bail) and previous bail applications. Section 7 provides that a Chief Superintendent may give his or her opinion that the applicant, if given bail, is likely to commit a serious offence and that the application should therefore be refused. Sections 11 to 13 provide that a person granted bail may be subject to electronic monitoring if the bail is conditional on the person being or not being in certain places at certain specified times. Section 19 provides the prosecution with a right of appeal against the grant of bail or in respect of any conditions attaching to bail, where it is granted. Such a right is not currently available to the prosecution. This section also allows the High Court to transfer bail applications to the Circuit Court in cases where the case is triable by the Circuit Court.

The net effect of the changes being introduced by Part 2 of the Criminal Justice Bill 2007 is that the prosecution authorities will be in a position to mount a more effective challenge to bail applications where there is a likelihood of the applicant committing serious offences if given bail. These changes will help redress the balance while respecting the general presumption referred to at the outset.

The numbers of headline offences, by group, committed by persons on bail have been featured in the Garda Annual Report since 2004, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library. 2004 was the first year information relating to the offences committed by persons on bail was published. Comparable statistics for years prior to 2004 are not readily available and would require a disproportionate expenditure of Garda time and resources to extract the data from manual records.

Stardust Disaster.

Ivor Callely

Question:

117 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has met with the families bereaved by the Stardust disaster; if he will meet with their committee; if he has been fully briefed by his Department on all matters relating; if he will make the brief he has received available to this Deputy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13294/07]

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

I can inform the Deputy that there has been extensive contact with the Stardust Victims Committee in recent years, leading to their lodging a comprehensive submission last July in which they set out their concerns regarding the original inquiry. This was followed up by a meeting on 18 September last at which the Taoiseach and I, together with senior officials and the Director of the Forensic Science Laboratory, met with representatives of the Victims Committee. The purpose of the meeting was to hear from the Committee in person on their detailed submission so as to properly inform the analysis of its contents. The meeting concluded with an indication by the Committee that it would follow up with some final observations, which could be added to the material already under examination.

The extent of the detail and the complexity of the issues, however, were such that the examination of the technical and legal questions arising required more time than was originally anticipated. This examination concluded in December and a considered written response issued to the Committee's solicitor on the 15th of that month. This correspondence informed the Committee that their submissions has received very careful attention but that the analysis and advice available to the Taoiseach and the Tánaiste remained that new material had not been presented which would justify the holding of another inquiry or which would have led to a different conclusion had it been available at the time of the original inquiry.

Notwithstanding this position, and taking into account the evident and sincere concerns of the families in question, the Committee's solicitor was also informed that the Taoiseach would be willing to arrange for an external and independent examination of the Committee's submission by an eminent legal person. The precise arrangements and mechanisms of this examination are currently the subject of discussions with the Committee's solicitor. All of the relevant information will be put before the person in question for consideration and a full opportunity will be provided to the Victim's Committee to present and explain the points made in their submission.

Rather than continue to debate the details of that submission, or the advice received by me with respect to its merits, I believe it is now preferable to allow these issues be explored in the forthcoming independent examination.

Garda Operations.

Ivor Callely

Question:

118 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will report on the success of Operation Anvil; the outcome to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13295/07]

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

Operation Anvil commenced in the Garda Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) on 17 May, 2005. It is an intelligence led policing initiative, the focus of which is the targeting of active criminals and their associates involved in serious crime by preventing and disrupting their criminal activity through extensive additional overt patrolling and static check points by uniform, mobile and foot patrols, supported by armed plain clothes patrols. The Operation remains in place and is on-going in the DMR.

Operation Anvil is central to the strategy of the Garda Síochána in combating serious crime and in particular murder. The Operation has proved to be very successful in disrupting the criminal activities of a number of key criminal gangs. It has resulted in a number of high-profile arrests and the acquisition of intelligence on the movements of criminals. Notable improvements have been achieved in the recorded number of incidents of crime being targeted by the Operation. In particular, crime statistics for the fourth quarter of 2006 showed an increase of 34% in detections of possession of firearms which contributed to the reduction of 3.4% in discharges of firearms. Operation Anvil has also contributed to the increase in that quarter of detections of offences of possession of drugs for sale or supply which is closely associated with many murders using firearms.

The most recent figures available to me, up to 27 March, 2007, show the massive effect which Operation Anvil has been having since its inception in May 2005. In the Dublin Metropolitan Region there have been 3,971 arrests for serious crimes, comprising of 74 arrests for murder, 2,042 arrests for burglary, 941 arrests for robbery and 914 arrests for serious assaults. There have also been 2,279 arrests for theft offences. In addition 30,330 searches have been carried out, comprising 26,497 for drugs, 2,290 for thefts and 1,543 for firearms. Also 643 firearms have been seized and there have been 10,520 seizures under Section 41 of the Road Traffic Act. 54,526 checkpoints have been carried out and property to the value of €17.2m has been recovered.

I am sure that all members of the House will join me in commending An Garda Síochána for their success in this regard.

While the Deputy's question refers to Dublin, I should mention that Operation Anvil was extended nationwide during 2006 and consists of a series of special operations, proposed by each Regional Assistant Commissioner, which are designed to focus on areas where there is a high incidence of crime.

The Operation outside the DMR is significantly different from that in the DMR, in that initiatives have a short time-focus and are designed to address the particular needs of specific areas. A number of operations have been completed, while further operations are on-going. The methodologies utilised in doing this vary from area to area and from time to time, commensurate with the assessed need. For these reasons there is no comparable system in place for the systematic collation of statistical data in these Garda Regions.

Operation Anvil is, of course, only one element of the unprecedented resources being made available in the fight against crime.

I have made it clear to the Garda Commissioner that Operation Anvil will continue to be funded to the extent and as long as the Commissioner considers that it is necessary to do so and it is fulfilling its objectives.

The table below shows the successes of Operation Anvil.

Operation Anvil in the Dublin Metropolitan Region up to 27 March 2007

Arrests
Murder	74
Burglary	2,042
Robbery offences	941
Serious assaults	914
Theft from shops*	1,723
Theft from MPV*	139
Theft other*	417
Total Arrests	6,250
Searches
Drugs	26,497
Thefts	2,290
Firearms	1,543
Total Searches	30,330
Seizures
Firearms	643
Section 41 (Road Traffic Act)	10,520
Total Seizures	11,163
Number of Checkpoints Performed	54,526
Value of property recovered	€17,223,730

*These statistics commenced from 25 September 2006.

Question No. 119 answered with QuestionNo. 63.

Drugs in Prisons.

Ivor Callely

Question:

120 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if prisons here are drug free; if the authorities are aware of high abuse of illegal drugs in the prison system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13297/07]

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

On 2 May 2006, I launched the Irish Prison Service Drugs Policy & Strategy, entitled Keeping Drugs out of Prison. This policy fulfils the commitment in the Programme for Government to publish the plan to end all heroin use in Irish prisons as well as my own commitment to achieve a drug-free prison system. The implementation of this Policy & Strategy has seen an intensification of efforts in the prison system to eliminate the availability of illicit drugs within prisons.

It has provided for a range of new measures aimed at eliminating the supply of drugs into prisons, notably: enhanced visit security, the introduction of passive drug detection dogs and mandatory drug testing. At the same time, it has provided for continued investment in services within prisons to reduce the demand for illicit drugs in the prisoner population and meeting prisoners' treatment and rehabilitative needs.

The intended introduction of mandatory drug testing across the prison system will provide a more accurate indication of the extent of drug abuse amongst prisoners. Deliberations are at an advanced stage in relation to the provision of this service.

Proposed Legislation.

Ivor Callely

Question:

121 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress of the working group to consider options for legislative proposals for Government of couples in caring relationships and civil partnerships; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13298/07]

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

The Options Paper prepared by the Working Group on Domestic Partnership was published on 28 November 2006. I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 14 and 30 of 7 December 2006. The position is as set out therein.

Garda Deployment.

Ivor Callely

Question:

122 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Garda personnel levels, supports, Garda motorcycles and Garda cars or vans available in the HJ and R districts of the DMA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13299/07]

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

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.

Asylum Support Services.

Ivor Callely

Question:

123 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of asylum seekers in accommodation offered by the RIA; the locations of such centres; the budget of the RIA to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13300/07]

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

The Reception and Integration Agency is currently providing accommodation and ancillary services for 5785 asylum seekers.

The accommodation portfolio of the Reception and Integration Agency comprises 2 reception centres, 47 accommodation centres and 9 self catering centres. Details of this accommodation portfolio are below.

The 2007 budgetary provision for the Reception and Integration Agency in respect of accommodation and ancillary services is €70 million.

RIA Accommodation Portfolio as at 3 April 2007

County	Location	Address	Type
Clare	Knockalisheen A/S Centre	Meelick	SYS
Roscommon	Clare Lodge	Ennis	HOS
	Ashbourne Hse Hotel	Glounthaune	HOT
Cork	Kinsale Road Acc. Centre	Cork City	SYS
	Glenvera Hotel	Wellington Road	HOS
	Millstreet Accommodation Centre	Millstreet	FC/NH
	Davis Street Apartments	73-75 Davis Street, Mallow	Self Catering
Donegal	Cliffview	Donegal Town	HOS
Dublin	Camden House	Camden Street, Dublin 2	HOS
	The Towers	The Ninth Lock, Clondalkin	HOT
	Camden Hall	Camden Street, Dublin 2	HOT
	70 Lower Camden Street	70 Lower Camden Street	HOS
	14 Gardiner Place	Dublin 1	HOS
	Horse and Carriage	Aungier Street, Dublin 2	GT
	Newlight House	St. Margaret’s, Finglas	GT
	10 North Frederick Street	Dublin 1	HOS
	Viking Lodge	Francis Street, Dublin 8	HOT
	Georgian Court	77-79 Lower Gardiner St. Dublin 2	GT
	Hatch Hall	28 Lower Hatch Street, Dublin 1	FC/NH
	Glenview House	Tallaght	Self Catering
	Harbour View	Grand Canal Place, Dublin 1	Self Catering
	James Street Apartments	143 James St., Dublin 8	Self Catering
	Portobello Harbour	7 Portobello Harbour, Dublin 8	Self Catering
	Tathony House	Bow Lane West, Dublin 8	Self Catering
	Watergate House	11-14 Usher’s Quay, Dublin 8	Self Catering
	Balseskin	St. Margaret’s, Finglas	Reception
	Kilmacud House	Upr. Kilmacud Road, Stillorgan	Reception
Galway	Eglinton Hotel	The Proms, Salthill	HOT
	Great Western House	Eyre Square	HOS
Kerry	Atlas House	Killarney	HOT
	Atlas House	Tralee	HOS
	Johnston Marina Hotel	Tralee	HOT
	Linden House	Killarney	GT
	Park Lodge	Killarney	HOT
	Westward Court	Tralee	HOS
Kildare	Eyrepowell Hotel	Newbridge	HOT
Kilkenny	Ormonde Acc. Centre	John’s Green	HOS
Leitrim	Sliabh an Iarainn	Ballinamore	HOT
Limerick	Clyde House	St. Alphonsus Street	HOS
	Westbourne Holiday Hostel	Dock Road	HOS
	Mount Trenchard	Foynes, Co. Limerick	FC/NH
Longford	Richmond Court	Richmond Street	HOT
Louth	Carroll Village	Dundalk	Self Catering
Mayo	Railway Hotel	Kiltimagh	HOT
	The Old Convent	Ballyhaunis	FC/NH
Meath	Mosney Accommodation Centre	Mosney	HC
Monaghan	St. Patricks	Monaghan	FC/NH
Roscommon	Station Road Apartments	Station Road, Ballaghdereen	Self Catering
Sligo	Globe House	Chapel Hill	HOS
Tipp. South	Bridgewater House	Carrick-On-Suir	FC/NH
Waterford	Ursuline Complex	Ballytruckle Road	FC/NH
	Viking House	Coffee House Lane	GT
	Atlantic House	Tramore, Co. Waterford	HOT
	Ocean View	Tramore, Co. Waterford	HOT
Westmeath	Athlone Accommodation Centre	Athlone	MOB
Wexford	Old Rectory House	New Ross	HOT
Wicklow	Beechlawn	Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow	GT
	The Warrens	Wicklow Town	GT

Explanation

SYS = System Built; HOS = Hostel; HOT = Hotel; FC/NH = Former Convent/Nursing Home; GT = Guest House; Reception = Reception Centre; MOB = Mobile Home Site.

Citizenship Applications.

Ivor Callely

Question:

124 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of people that have applied for naturalisation during the period 2000 to 2005; the comparison figure for 1980 to 1985 and 1990 to 1995; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13301/07]

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

The statistics required by the Deputy are set out in tabular form below. These figures illustrate a significant increase in the volume of applications for naturalisation received in recent years.

I should point out that prior to 1997, each application was assigned a registration number, a record of which was then manually entered into ledgers. Some such registration numbers were subsequently cancelled or the applicant assigned a different number and this may result in minor discrepancies in the data provided.

Year	Applications for naturalisation received	Year	Applications for naturalisation received	Year	Applications for naturalisation received
1980	163	1990	372	2000	1,004
1981	187	1991	648	2001	1,431
1982	251	1992	473	2002	3,574
1983	228	1993	255	2003	3,580
1984	228	1994	283	2004	4,074
1985	246	1995	295	2005	4,523

Asylum Applications.

Ivor Callely

Question:

125 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of people who were refused asylum or leave to remain here since 1992; the costs involved in the processing of such decisions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13302/07]

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

The information sought by the Deputy in regard to the number of applications for asylum which were refused since 1992 is set out in tabular format below.

Asylum Application and Appeal Statistics — 1992 to 2007 (28/02)

Year	No. of asylum applications received	No. of asylum applications refused at first instance*	No. of asylum appeals refused
1992	39	12	3
1993	91	14	17
1994	362	21	14
1995	424	29	54
1996	1,179	41	218
1997	3,883	349	384
1998	4,626	1,158	210
1999	7,724	4,796	634
2000	10,938	6,291**	1,153
2001	10,325	6,505	1,460
2002	11,634	7,466	3,599
2003	7,900	7,847	3,767
2004	4,766	6,460	5,394
2005	4,323	4,787	3,406
2006	4,314	3,847	1,615
2007(28/02)	717	535	234
Total	73,245	50,158	22,162

*Includes some withdrawn cases.

**This includes 425 recommendations made by ORAC in the period 20 Nov 2000 to 31 Dec 2000.

In regard to Leave to Remain, I am assuming that the Deputy is referring to applications for Leave to Remain in the State made pursuant to Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 as amended.

An application for Leave to Remain in the State in these circumstances arises where a non-national is served with a notice of intent to deport under section 3 (3) (a) of the Immigration Act, 1999. A person served with such a notice of intent to deport is afforded three options, viz. to leave the State voluntarily; to consent to the making of a Deportation Order; or to make representations in writing within 15 working days setting out reasons as to why a Deportation Order should not be made and why temporary Leave to Remain in the State be granted instead.

Leave to remain, outside that granted on the grounds of parentage of an Irish born child or marriage to an Irish or EU national, is considered in the context of deciding whether or not to deport a non-national.

In determining whether to make a deportation order or grant temporary leave to remain in the State, I must have regard to the eleven factors set out in Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 (Prohibition of Refoulement) of the Refugee Act, 1996, as amended.

Temporary leave to remain is considered in every case regardless of whether representations are made by, or on behalf of, the persons concerned. Statistics are not maintained in a way which distinguishes between those who have made an application for leave to remain and those who have not. Moreover, it must be borne in mind that many of those who failed the asylum process, and who did not opt to return voluntarily or consent to deportation, nonetheless left the State before a decision to deport or grant leave to remain was made.

The Department's expenditure for the years 2000-2006 on its asylum and immigration functions is shown below.

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform expenditure on the asylum and immigration process 2000-2006

Year	€m
2000	10.4
2001	31.68
2002	45.46
2003	120.47
2004	128.28
2005	136.85
2006	139.89*

*Provisional outturn.

Costs incurred by the Exchequer in the provision of services to asylum seekers in 2000-2005**

Year	€m
2000	179.32
2001	226.26
2002	341.99
2003	353.17
2004	376.74
2005	307.85*

*Does not include the cost of medical screening and maternity care.

**Some Departments do not provide statistics on asylum seekers only so their statistics also include the cost of providing services to non-nationals generally.

The Department's provisional costs in 2006 were €139.89m for asylum and immigration services including the cost of accommodation for asylum seekers.

Included in the Department's expenditure is the total cost of running the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration service (INIS), including processing of visa and citizenship applications and the operation of the repatriation process, as opposed to specifically the administration of the asylum determination process. Since 2004, INIS has reassigned approximately 120 staff from the asylum determination process to providing mainstream frontline services such as visa processing, citizenship and general immigration functions. The 2006 cost also includes expenditure on elements of a suite of information technology for projects which will improve efficiently and customer service in asylum and immigration processed once completed.

Significantly, the cost of providing accommodation services to asylum seekers in 2006 was almost €6m below the equivalent cost in 2005; i.e. €78m as opposed to €84m.

The overall cost to the Exchequer of providing services in 2006 (across all Government Departments) to asylum seekers and immigrants more generally is not yet available.

Question No. 126 answered with QuestionNo. 38.

Youth Diversion Projects.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

127 Mr. Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support an application for a Garda Youth Diversion Project for Lucan, County Dublin in order to provide an effective response to the needs of marginalised youth in the area. [13346/07]

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

Garda Youth Diversion Projects are community-based, multi-agency crime prevention initiatives which seek to divert young people from becoming involved (or further involved) in anti-social and/or criminal behaviour by providing suitable activities to facilitate personal development and promote civic responsibility. The Garda Youth Diversion Projects are funded by my Department and administered through the Community Relations Section of An Garda Síochána. It is my intention to ensure that 100 projects will be established nationwide before the end of 2007.

The Garda Commissioner brings forward proposals to me for the establishment of new Garda Youth Diversion Projects following periodic assessment of applications received from community groups etc. The locations for new Projects are selected on the basis of factors including an increase in the level of juvenile crime in the area and the number of young people referred to the Juvenile Diversion Programme. Should an application be received for a Garda Youth Diversion Project in the Lucan area it will be given due consideration by the Garda Commissioner.

Crime Levels.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

128 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of organised criminal gangs or their families currently operating in the country and who are known to the Gardaí; the number of such persons that have been prosecuted in the past year; the extent to which their assets have been investigated or are under investigation; the extent to which adequate resources are available to the Gardaí to pursue such inquires; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13365/07]

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

An Garda Síochána, as part of its contribution to the Europol Organised Crime Report which was recently refined to become the Organised Crime Threat Assessment (OCTA), undertakes an annual assessment of organised crime in Ireland. The most recent assessment was completed in November 2006.

This analysis concludes that the nature of organised crime gangs continues to be the same as in previous years. There are two categories of organised crime groups operating in this jurisdiction. The first category consists of individuals/groups that are well established and tightly structured involved in drug trafficking, armed robbery and firearms offences. The second category involves groups whose activities are characterised by less cohesive group structures and criminal activities which are mainly confined to Ireland.

Because of the relative fluid nature of those involved in serious/organised crime in Ireland it is not possible to easily place them in a particular group and therefore it is not possible to provide an accurate and definitive number for the various groups operating here.

The Criminal Assets Bureau, under the Assistant Commissioner, National Support Services, works closely with other national units and senior investigating officers in all Garda Divisions to ensure, wherever possible, that assets derived from criminal activity, including drug-related crime, are subject to post-conviction confiscation, pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act 1993, civil restraint pursuant to the Proceeds of Crime Acts 1996-2005 and the relevant Revenue and Social Welfare legislation.

An Garda Síochána will continue with intelligence-led operations against selected targets to combat the criminal activities of these groups.

In relation to the resources available to the Gardaí, I wish to inform the Deputy that An Garda Síochána has never been better resourced than it is now. 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, 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 Garda Budget now stands at €1.4 billion, which represents an 11% increase on 2006.

Garda personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

Question No. 129 answered with QuestionNo. 24.

Garda Equipment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

130 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the full extent of the technology currently available to the Gardaí is adequate to meet the scale of requirements in the fight against crime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13367/07]

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

With the huge increase in Garda resources facilitated by this Government, I am satisfied that it has enabled a major investment by the Force in technology to meet the challenges of modern society.

This year an unprecedented level of resources is being invested in technology for the Gardaí to assist them in the exercise of all their functions. The capital allocation for Information Technology and Communications alone for 2007 amounts to €44 million. This coupled with the significant level of funding already invested in technology over the past number of years enabled a large number of important initiatives in the area of IT and telecommunications to be undertaken.

An Garda Síochána have set-out their targets in the fight against crime in their Corporate Strategy and Annual Policing Plan for 2007. In the area of technology this is underpinned by their Information and Communications Technology Plan. Implementation of a number of major systems identified in the plan is already well underway. Chief among these is the provision of a new National Digital Radio Service which will provide the force with not only secure radio communications but also access to mobile data such as photographs etc. Other projects currently underway include a Major Incidents System which will involve the capture of all incident information, exhibit tracking as well as supporting incident room management. A new Automated Number Plate recognition system (ANPR) is also being developed. Other systems under development include a new Automated Fingerprint Information System (AFIS), an automated Ballistics Identification System (ABIS) and Financial Management Systems as well as significant investment in the continued support and maintenance of existing systems.

The above mentioned investment is just one element of the Government's overall commitment to An Garda Síochána including increasing the strength of the Force to 15,000, a major programme of civilianisation and an increase in the overall Garda budget to over €1.4 billion in 2007. This unprecedented investment in resources by this Government provides a firm platform to take on the challenges of policing in a modern diverse society.

Garda Stations.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

131 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number and location of Garda stations throughout the country, excluding divisional headquarters that are open to the public on a 24 hour basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13368/07]

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

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.

Garda Deployment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

132 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the extent to which the deployment of Gardaí in terms of ratio to the population has been improved in line with demographic trends; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13369/07]

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

I am 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.

The national population in 1996 was 3,626,087 while the Garda strength was 10,285. This established a ratio of 1 Garda member for every 335 persons. If the population increased to 4.5 m by 2012, a Garda strength of 13,433 would be required to maintain this 335:1 ratio. Under the current Garda recruitment programme approved by the Government, the strength of the Force will have increased to 15000 by 2012. Based on a population assumption of 4.5 million, this represents a ratio of 1 Garda for every 300 persons.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Central Statistics Office are presently examining the 2006 Census of Population figures in relation to Small Area Population Statistics (SAPS). It is not expected that these SAPS figures will be available until October 2007. It is therefore not possible to provide an accurate ratio of the extent to which the deployment of Gardaí in terms of ratio to the population has improved in line with demographic trends at present.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that it is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. Garda Personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

Garda Strength.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

133 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the permanent and full time Garda Síochána as of 30 March 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13370/07]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 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.

I am 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 as at 30th March 2007 was 13,172.

The Deputy will appreciate that, as with any large organisation, on any given day, the overall strength of the organisation may fluctuate due, for example, to retirements, resignations etc.

Question No. 134 answered with QuestionNo. 24.

Prison Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

135 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the extent to which custodial procedures in respect of high risk criminals are breached throughout the prison service with particular reference to overcrowding and the concentration of an unacceptable number of such prisoners at any location; his proposals to address these issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13372/07]

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

High risk criminals are dispersed throughout the prison system. However, a substantial number of them are held in Portlaoise prison, which is currently operating at 63% of its capacity. I have been advised by the Irish Prison Service that custodial procedures are not breached with respect to high risk criminals.

The decision to locate an individual at a particular institution is normally taken following a risk assessment which takes cognisance of intelligence held on him/her derived from previous periods of detention, Garda Reports and knowledge of associates, alliances etc.

As regards occupancy levels throughout the prison system in general, the total number of prisoners in custody on 2 April, 2007 was 3,283 compared with a bed capacity of 3,416. This represents an occupancy level of 96%.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

136 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the full extent of cell occupation throughout the prison service; the number of cells not designed to cater for more than one person, which have in excess of that number; the number of prisoners accommodated in breech of safety or security conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13373/07]

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

The total number of prisoners in custody on 2 April, 2007 was 3,283 compared with a bed capacity of 3,416. This represents an occupancy level of 96%.

In relation to the number of cells not designed to cater for more than one person, it is not possible to provide the information requested by the Deputy in the time available as the information is not readily available. However, my Department is currently compiling the data which will then require collation. Once this information is sourced, I will furnish the information to the Deputy.

Crime Levels.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

137 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of crimes committed by members of organised criminal gangs since he linked the incidence of such activity to the sting of a dying wasp; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13374/07]

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

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that as part of their contribution to the Europol Organised Crime Report, which was recently refined to become the Organised Crime Threat Assessment (OCTA), An Garda Síochána undertakes an annual assessment of organised crime in Ireland. The most recent assessment was completed in November 2006.

The analysis concludes that the nature of organised crime gangs continues to be the same as in previous years. There are two categories of organised crime groups operating in this jurisdiction. The first category consists of individuals/groups that are well established and tightly structured involved in drug trafficking, armed robbery and firearms offences. The second category involves groups whose activities are characterised by criminal activities which are mainly confined to Ireland.

However, because of the relatively fluid nature of those involved in serious/organised crime in Ireland, it is not possible to provide an accurate estimate as to those crimes committed by such groupings. An Garda Síochána will continue with intelligence-led operations against selected targets to combat the criminal activities of these groups.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

138 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of crimes including anti-social behaviour incidents reported to or through each Garda station in County Kildare in each of the past three years; the number of prosecutions and convictions that followed therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13375/07]

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

Following the submission to me in 2004 of a report and recommendations by an expert group on crime statistics, I decided that the compilation and publication of crime statistics should be taken over by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, from the Garda Síochána. The Garda Síochána Act, 2005 consequently makes provision for this and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose. Following the setting up of the necessary technical systems and auditing of the data from which the statistics are compiled, I am pleased to note that the CSO is now compiling and publishing criminal statistics and has published provisional headline crime statistics for the third and fourth quarters of 2006. In addition, it has compiled and published a series of quarterly and annual statistics for the period starting with the first quarter of 2003. I understand that the CSO are examining how the crime statistics published might be expanded and made more comprehensive. I have requested the CSO to provide the information sought by the Deputy directly to him.

Garda Strength.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

139 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will carry out a revision of Garda strength and deployment in respect of division, district and station throughout County Kildare with particular reference to increasing Garda strength in reasonable ratios to the population which has increased dramatically in the past 10 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13377/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

140 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will increase Garda strength at the various stations throughout County Kildare in line with the population increase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13378/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 139 and 140 together.

I am 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.

I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of the Carlow/Kildare Division on 31 December 1997 and on 2 April 2007 was 281 and 390 (all ranks) respectively. This represents an increase of 109 (or 38.7%) in the number of personnel allocated since that date.

The national population in 1996 was 3,626,087 while the Garda strength was 10,285. This established a ratio of 1 Garda member for every 335 persons. If the population increased to 4.5 m by 2012, a Garda strength of 13,433 would be required to maintain this 335:1 ratio. Under the current Garda recruitment programme approved by the Government, the strength of the force will have increased to 15,000 by 2012. Based on a population assumption of 4.5 million, this represents a ratio of 1 Garda for every 300 persons.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Central Statistics Office are presently examining the 2006 Census of Population figures in relation to Small Area Population Statistics (SAPS). It is not expected that these SAPS figures will be available until October 2007. It is therefore not possible to provide an accurate ratio of the extent to which the deployment of Gardaí in terms of ratio to the population has improved in line with demographic trends at present.

I should also add that it is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. Garda Personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

Garda Equipment.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

141 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the extent to which it is intended to increase or improve the facilities available to the Gardaí in County Kildare including patrol cars, motorcycles and information technology; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13379/07]

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

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.

Garda Stations.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

142 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations throughout County Kildare open and operational on a 24 hour basis; his plans to increase this number in line with demographic trends; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13380/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

143 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make extra provision for the opening of Garda stations throughout County Kildare on a 24 hour basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13381/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 143 together.

I am 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.

I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of the Carlow/Kildare Division on 31 December, 1997, and on 2 April, 2007, was 281 and 390 (all ranks) respectively. This represents an increase of 109 (or 38.7%) in the number of personnel allocated since that date.

I have also been informed by the Garda authorities that currently there are 5 Garda Stations in the Carlow/Kildare Division open on a 24 hour basis (Naas, Kildare, Newbridge, Carlow and Baltinglass).

The extension of the opening hours of other stations in the Carlow/Kildare Division would necessitate the employment of additional personnel on indoor administrative duties who may be more effectively employed on outdoor policing duties.

I should also add that it is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. Garda Personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

144 Mr. O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm plans for funding for closed circuit television systems in Tallaght including estates in Tallaght west (details supplied); the schedule being followed in this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13456/07]

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

I launched the Community-based CCTV Scheme in June 2005, in response to a demonstrated demand from local communities across Ireland for the provision of CCTV systems. The Scheme is designed to provide financial assistance to qualifying local organisations towards meeting the capital costs associated with the establishment of local community CCTV systems.

The Scheme offers both pre-development grants of up to €5,000 to enable qualifying applicants to investigate the need for CCTV in their area and to complete a detailed proposal, and substantial grants of up to €100,000 from my Department to install a CCTV system in their area. In addition, the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs provides successful applicants from RAPID areas with a further grant to a possible maximum of €100,000. Pobal has been engaged to administer the Scheme on behalf of this Department and it carries out thorough assessments of all applications received.

The first round of the Scheme concluded in September 2005 and 24 successful groups received Stage 1 grants totalling €115,665 with payments being made in 2006. Pobal invited all groups who received Stage 1 grants to submit Stage 2 proposals by 31st January 2007. Twenty of these groups submitted proposals and I announced in recent days that eleven groups had been approved to receive grants totalling in excess of €1 million from my Department, to be matched in RAPID areas by funding in the order of €960,000 provided by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. The final amounts of funding involved for each project will be determined subject to the finalisation of contracts for each scheme.

Three proposed projects in the Tallaght area are included in the eleven groups that have been approved for grants from my Department. They are:

Jobstown Community Development Group, Tallaght,

Getting Tallaght Working Ltd., T/A Partas in Killinarden, and

Getting Tallaght Working Ltd., T/A Partas in Brookfield & Fettercairn.

As these three areas are RAPID areas, the projects will be entitled to seek matching funding from the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.

The approval for funding now enables these Community groups in the Tallaght area and, indeed, groups in the other areas of the country involved to install and operate their own CCTV systems under the guidance of An Garda Síochána and the Local Authorities. Pobal will continue to monitor progress on behalf of the Department as these projects are implemented.

Community-based CCTV schemes are an important and effective way for local people and organisations to work together in partnership with the Gardaí and local authorities to help make local communities safer.

Garda Stations.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

145 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when the new Garda Station in Leixlip will open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13376/07]

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

Construction of the new Garda Station in Leixlip is under way and completion is expected in Autumn 2008.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

146 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Finance the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13161/07]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

The following tables give details of the number of nominations from each gender to State Boards for which my Department has responsibility for each of the years 2002 to 2007.

Year 2002

Board Name	Male Nominees	Female Nominees
Civil Service Disciplinary Code Appeal Board	None	1
Civil Service and Teachers Arbitration Board	3	None
Adjudicator for Civil Service and Teachers Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme	None	1
Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal	2	1
Central Bank of Ireland	3	None
Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority Interim Board	8	1
Valuation Tribunal	4	None
Ordnance Survey Ireland	10	None
State Claims Agency Policy Committee	4	3
An Post National Lottery Company	3	None

Year 2003

Board Name	Male Nominees	Female Nominees
Civil Service Disciplinary Code Appeal Board	None	2
Civil Service and Teachers Arbitration Board	3	None
Adjudicator for Civil Service and Teachers Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme	None	1
Central Bank and Financial Services Authority	11	1
Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority	8	2
National Development Finance Agency	4	2
Valuation Tribunal	None	1
An Post National Lottery Company	3	None

Year 2004

Board Name	Male Nominees	Female Nominees
Public Appointments Service	4	5
Civil Service Disciplinary Code Appeal Board	None	1
Civil Service, Teachers and Permanent Defence Forces Arbitration Board	4	None
Adjudicator for Civil Service, Teachers and Defence Forces Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme	None	1
Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal	1	1
Financial Services Consultative Consumer Panel	13	8
Financial Services Consultative Industry Panel	15	5
Financial Services Ombudsman Council	9	1
Credit Union Advisory Committee	5	2
Valuation Tribunal	None	1
An Post National Lottery Company	1	1

Year 2005

Board Name	Male Nominees	Female Nominees
Civil Service Disciplinary Code Appeal Board	None	1
Civil Service, Teachers and Permanent Defence Forces Arbitration Board	4	None
Adjudicator for Civil Service, Teachers and Defence Forces Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme	None	1
Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal	9	4
Financial Services Consultative Industry Panel	1	1
National Development Finance Agency	2	None
Valuation Tribunal	3	1
Review Body on Higher Remuneration	2	None
An Post National Lottery Company	3	None

Year 2006

Board Name	Male Nominees	Female Nominees
Civil Service Disciplinary Code Appeal Board	None	1
Civil Service, Teachers, Gardaí and Permanent Defence Forces Arbitration Board	5	None
Adjudicator for Civil Service, Teachers, Gardaí and Defence Forces Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme	1	None
Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal	2	None
Central Bank and Financial Services Authority	2	None
Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority	2	None
Financial Services Consultative Consumer Panel	11	8
Financial Services Consultative Industry Panel	14	4
Financial Services Ombudsman Council	8	1
Credit Union Advisory Committee	5	2
National Development Finance Agency	1	None
Valuation Tribunal	5	None
Ordnance Survey Ireland	3	None
State Claims Agency Policy Committee	None	2
Public Service Benchmarking Body	6	1
Committee for Performance Awards	2	1
An Post National Lottery Company	3	1

Year 2007

Board Name	Male Nominees	Female Nominees
Civil Service Disciplinary Code Appeal Board	None	1
Civil Service, Teachers, Gardaí and Permanent Defence Forces Arbitration Board	5	None
Adjudicator for Civil Service, Teachers, Gardaí and Defence Forces Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme	1	None
Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal	None	1
Irish Financial Services Appeals Tribunal	4	3
National Development Finance Agency	1	None

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

147 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13207/07]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

The following vacancies have arisen recently or are due to arise in the coming months on State boards, State bodies or other entities under the aegis of my Department and I would envisage that the majority of the vacancies will be filled by 4 July.

Name of Body	No. of Vacancies
Ordnance Survey Ireland (OSI)	7
State Claims Agency (SCA) Policy Committee	5
Valuation Tribunal	4
Civil Service Disciplinary Code Appeal Board	1
Decentralisation Implementation Group	1
Financial Services Consultative Consumer Panel	1
National Treasury Management Agency Advisory Committee	2
Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal	2
Civil Service Arbitration Board	4
Civil Service Adjudicator	1

Tax Code.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

148 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance if a person paying rent to a housing association similar to those (details supplied) is entitled to claim tax relief on their rent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13394/07]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that, in specific terms, they are not in a position to state whether tax relief would be available in respect of rent paid to a voluntary housing association such as "Clúid" or 'Respond' without knowing the precise details of the tenancy and/or other arrangement entered into by the individual concerned.

In general terms, Section 473 TCA 1997 provides tax relief at the standard rate of tax (currently 20%) to individuals who pay for private rented accommodation that is used as their sole or main residence. The maximum tax relief available is as follows:

(a) for married persons jointly assessed to tax and widowed persons—

(i) if aged under 55, the maximum relief is €3,600@20% = €720

(ii) if aged 55 or over €7,200@20% = €1,440

(b) for single individuals—

(i) if aged under 55, €1,800 @ 20% = €360

(ii) if aged 55 or over €3,600 @ 20% = €720

However, the relief is not available in respect of rent paid on: a tenancy for a freehold estate or interest, or a tenancy for a definite period of 50 years or more; tenancies held from local authorities, Government Departments or the Office of Public Works, and tenancies in relation to which exists an agreement that the rent paid may be treated as consideration or part consideration for the purchase or future purchase of the property.

In addition, the term ‘rent' does not include payment that relates to the provision of goods and services nor does it include any right or benefit other than the bare right to use, occupy and enjoy residential premises. Also, the term 'rent' does not include payments that qualify for right of reimbursement or subsidy from a third party.

I am further informed by the Revenue Commissioners that, in relation to the case giving rise to the Deputy's query, on receipt of the details of the individual's tenancy and/or other arrangement with the housing association, they will examine the matter and determine whether or not relief for rent paid is due.

If there is an entitlement to the rent relief, such entitlement is claimed by way of completion of a form Rent 1 (which is available from the Revenue website www.revenue.).

Tax Collection.

John Perry

Question:

149 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Finance if he will waive the liabilities for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo as they are experiencing financial difficulties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13395/07]

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that an Inland Revenue Affidavit was received in the case of the named estate. So that the amount of Probate Tax liability can be established, a Probate Tax Form [form PT1] was requested from the Solicitor on 15th February 2007 but this has not yet been returned. It is not possible to determine the liability to Probate Tax until Form PT1 is received.

In addition insufficient information is available to determine whether there is a Capital Acquisitions Tax liability in respect of the beneficiaries or any other tax liability in respect of the estate. No request has been received to waive liability.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

150 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason no specialised treatment is provided for people in Kerry with special needs once they leave the formal education system; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13145/07]

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

As the Deputy may be aware, a sum of €75m 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 multi-disciplinary 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.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

151 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients currently awaiting orthopaedic appointments at Kerry General Hospital; the consultant rheumatology patient ratio; the number of patients on waiting lists for neurology, urology, ophthalmology and plastic surgery consultation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13146/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Statutory responsibility for the collation, management and publication of data on waiting times for surgical procedures 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 on neurology, urology, ophthalmology and plastic surgery waiting lists.

As the NTPF would not be in a position to comment on the consultant rheumatology patient ratio at Kerry General Hospital (KGH), my Department requested the information from the Health Service Executive (HSE). The HSE has advised that a visiting consultant Rheumatologist attends KGH on one day per month and typically sees eight new patients per session. In 2006, there were 546 Rheumatology out-patient consultations at KGH of which 47 were new patients. At present, there is no in-patient Rheumatology service in Kerry. Patients requiring in-patient treatment are referred as appropriate to Cork University Hospital.

The following table sets out the waiting list for both Orthopaedic Out-patient and In-patient waiting times and for Out-patient Rheumatology consultations at KGH as at end February, 2007. KGH is working closely with the NTPF towards reducing waiting times for both in-patient and out-patient services.

	Adults < 3 months	Adults > 3 months	Children < 3 months	Children > 3 months
Orthopaedic In-patient waiting list	26	22	1	0
Orthopaedic Out-patient waiting list	89	586	7	28
Rheumatology Out-patient waiting list	8	253	—	—

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

152 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which her Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13163/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The information requested by the Deputy is presently being compiled by my Department and will be forwarded to her as soon as it is finalised.

Missing Persons.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

153 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps that have been taken to deal with the number of children reported missing from the custody of the Health Services Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13171/07]

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

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and social services which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Office 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.

Mental Health Services.

John Gormley

Question:

154 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps that have been taken to establish a National Mental Health Service Directorate within the Health Service Executive, as outlined in the mental health policy A Vision for Change; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13172/07]

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

The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, "A Vision for Change", which was launched in January 2006, provides a framework for action to develop modern, high quality mental health services for a seven to ten year period. The Government has accepted the Report as the basis for the future development of our mental health services.

Implementation of the individual recommendations of "A Vision for Change", is a matter primarily for the HSE. In July 2006, the HSE established an implementation group to ensure that mental health services develop in a synchronised and consistent manner across the country and resource service managers and clinicians in making the recommendations in "A Vision for Change" a reality.

The HSE has informed my Department that it is currently examining how best to give effect to the recommendation contained in "A Vision for Change" to establish a National Mental Health Service Directorate. Proposals are being developed which will take account of the HSE's existing management structures and the existence of the Expert Advisory Group on Mental Health.

John Gormley

Question:

155 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she has taken to ensure that feedback from mental health service users on the effectiveness of services is taken into account in the implementation of the mental health policy A Vision for Change; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13173/07]

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

The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, "A Vision for Change", which was launched in January 2006, provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health services for a seven to ten year period. "A Vision for Change" recommends that a National Service User Executive be established to inform the HSE, the Mental Health Commission, inter alia, on issues relating to service user involvement and participation in planning, delivering, evaluating and monitoring services. The interim National Service User Executive (iNSUE) was established on 31 January 2007.

The Health Service Executive proposes to replace the interim NSUE with a substantive NSUE before the end of this year. The interim group will design the structure and format, constitution and standing orders and set out a programme of work.

In July 2006, the Health Service Executive established "A Vision for Change" implementation group to ensure that mental health services develop in a synchronised and consistent manner across the country and to resource service managers and clinicians in making the recommendations in "A Vision for Change" a reality. There are two service user and carer organisation representatives on the implementation group.

John Gormley

Question:

156 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the efforts being led by her Department in adopting an interdepartmental approach to the delivery of the targets outlined in the mental health policy entitled A Vision for Change; when such a plan will be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13174/07]

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

The Government is committed to the full implementation of "A Vision for Change" and has accepted the Report as the basis for the future development of our mental health services.

In March 2006, I appointed an independent monitoring group to monitor progress on the implementation of the recommendations of "A Vision for Change". The group will monitor and assess progress on the implementation of all the recommendations including those which fall under the responsibility of the HSE, government departments and other relevant agencies. The group is to submit its first annual report before mid 2007.

My Department has been in contact with other government departments in relation to the implementation of the recommendations which fall under their responsibility and will report to the independent monitoring group.

Medical Cards.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

157 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people currently holding full medical cards, per county; the number of people currently holding general practitioner only medical cards, per county; the number of people holding medical cards in June 2002, per county; and the number of people holding medical cards in June 1997, per county. [13197/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I attach a table for the Deputy showing the total number of people currently holding medical cards and GP visit cards; the total number of people holding medical cards in June 2002, and the total number of people holding medical cards in June 1997. The most recent monthly figures for medical card and GP visit card holders as supplied by the Health Service Executive (HSE) to my Department are as at 1st March, 2007.

As the HSE has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, and as the detailed information sought by the Deputy is not available in my Department, the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive has been requested to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

	1st March, 2007	June 2002	June 1997
Medical Card Holders	1,228,468	1,207,096	1,244,459
GP Visit Card Holders	58,712	N/A	N/A

There are a number of contextual factors which must be taken into account in interpreting these data.

The Health Strategy Quality & Fairness committed to making improvements in the income guidelines in order to increase the number of persons on low incomes eligible for the medical card and to give priority to families with children. In November, 2004 I set out my priorities for new health initiatives in 2005 including the provision of medical cards to an additional 30,000 people and GP visit cards to 200,000 people. Funding of €60 million was provided to the HSE for these measures. The two initiatives were intended to assist those on low and moderate incomes in accessing GP services and to help remove disincentives to people taking up work or progressing to better paying work. Following the enactment of the necessary legislation and the conclusion of negotiations with the Irish Medical Organisation, the first GP visit cards were issued by the HSE in November, 2005.

Taking holders of medical cards and GP visit cards together, some 1.287m persons (30.39% of the national population) now have access to general practitioner services free of charge.

In recent years there have been significant improvements to the way in which people's eligibility for medical cards and GP visit cards is assessed. Since the start of 2005, the income guidelines used in the assessment of medical card applications have increased by a cumulative29%. Other significant changes in 2005 mean that, on a standardised basis nationally, assessment is now based on an applicant's and spouse's income after tax and PRSI, and takes account of reasonable expenses incurred in respect of rent or mortgage payments, child-care and travel to work. Initially the GP visit card guidelines were 25% higher than the medical card guidelines however in June, 2006 I agreed with the HSE to further increase the income guidelines for GP visit cards and they are now 50% higher than those used for medical cards.

The HSE (and before 2005 the health boards) have undertaken a substantial programme of work in recent years to improve data quality in the GMS client database. For example, in 2003 and 2004, work carried out by the health boards led to a deletion of approximately 104,000 inappropriate entries where, for example, there were duplicate entries for the same person, the expiry date on the card had passed, the person had moved away or was deceased. This exercise did not involve any reduction in the actual number of people who held medical cards but rather resulted in a more accurate picture of the number of individuals in receipt of GP services under the GMS Scheme.

Appointments to State Boards.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

158 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of her Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by her between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13209/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The information requested by the Deputy is as set out below. It should be noted that the details presented represent both current vacancies on the boards of bodies under the aegis of my Department, which are in the process of being filled, in addition to those vacancies which are due to occur before 4 July 2007. I would envisage filling each of these vacancies in a timely fashion to allow for the work of the boards in question to continue uninterrupted subject to the availability of suitable candidates willing to serve in these positions.

Dublin Dental Hospital Board (14)

Health Research Board (10)

Irish Medicines Board (1)

National Cancer Registry Board (2)

National Council on Ageing and Older People (1)

National Social Work Qualifications Board (17)

National Treatment Purchase Fund (1)

St Luke's Hospital Board (2)

Voluntary Health Insurance Board (1)

Hospital Accommodation.

Billy Timmins

Question:

159 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients at St. Bridget’s Hospital, Ballinasloe; if the number of patients has been cut back in recent years; if staffing levels have been cutback; her plans for the hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13224/07]

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

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 of all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The Executive is, therefore, 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 to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

160 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a project (details supplied) in County Donegal; the services that will be available when the project is completed; if services such as BreastCheck, X-ray facilities, kidney dialysis and others will be available; and when exactly it is expected to be open. [13225/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Health Service Executive has informed my Department that it provided information in relation to the project named by the Deputy in response to a previous parliamentary question. My Department has asked the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated further and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Billy Timmins

Question:

161 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if they will be seen as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13229/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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.

Transport Costs.

John McGuinness

Question:

162 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if the cost of transport to attend a hospital in Dublin will be refunded to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny, as the ambulance service could not meet their needs due to their health condition; and if she will expedite the matter. [13282/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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 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.

Health Service Staff.

John McGuinness

Question:

163 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 136 of 1 March 2007, if she will request the Health Service Executive to address the issues raised in the question and explain the reason this person (details supplied) is effectively being locked out of their employment; the reason requests by them to return to work have been ignored by management; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13283/07]

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

My Department understands from the Health Service Executive that while it (the Health Service Executive) has a role in the funding of the organisation (details supplied) it is a matter between the person (details supplied) and the Voluntary Organisation (details supplied).

The Health Service Executive understands that normal industrial mechanisms will be used to resolve same.

Nursing Home Subventions.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

164 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate an application by a person (details supplied) in County Cork for enhanced nursing home subvention which was lodged with the health boards two years ago. [13284/07]

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

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.

Health Services.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

165 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will arrange for a person (details supplied) in County Cork in need of orthodontic treatment to be admitted for pre-orthodontic surgery as soon as possible. [13285/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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

Medical Cards.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

166 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate an application by a person (details supplied) in County Cork for a medical card which has been refused; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this person is in receipt of invalidity pension and has been unable to work for a long number of years owing to injuries received in a road traffic accident and that their spouse is no longer employed. [13286/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of General Practitioner (GP) services. In 2005 the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP.

Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29% and in addition allowance is now made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, child care and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed a further adjustment to the income guidelines for GP visit cards. These are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards. As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has therefore requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to theDeputy.

Hospital Services.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

167 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will assist in having an admission date arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Cork who is in need of surgery. [13287/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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 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. Patients waiting more than three months on a surgical waiting list may qualify for treatment under the National Treatment Purchase Fund. It is open to the person in question or anyone acting on her behalf to contact the Fund directly in relation to this case.

Ambulance Service.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

168 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason her Department and the Health Service Executive have not applied to the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs for additional finance for ambulance transport when there are persons all over County Mayo without an ambulance transport system to take them to essential hospital appointments, in situations where there are no other transport options available, in view of the fact that the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs has publically stated that finance for such projects is available by his Department for CLÁR and Rapid areas once a proposal has been submitted; when such submissions will be submitted by the HSE; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13314/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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.

EU Health Insurance.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

169 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 691 of 31 January, 2007, the reason there is still no information on ehic.ie regarding the public health systems in Bulgaria and Romania; and if she will ensure that this unsatisfactory position is immediately addressed. [13315/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

In regard to the public health care system of Romania, my Department has requested the Romanian authorities to provide the relevant information for inclusion on www.ehic.ie and a reply is awaited. It is hoped that information will be available about health care in Romania shortly. In regard to Bulgaria, information on its public health care system has been sent by my Department to the HSE for inclusion on the website. Accordingly, 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 theDeputy.

Nursing Home Subventions.

Finian McGrath

Question:

170 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will clarify the powers of the Health Service Executive in relation of the home ownership of patients in their care. [13336/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

There is no provision whereby the HSE may seek to sell the home of a person in long stay care. The Deputy will be aware that at present, some individuals find it necessary to sell their home in order to pay for long-term care. However, I recently announced a Nursing Home Support Scheme, to be implemented from 2008, under which there will no need for individuals to take this course of action. The new scheme will ensure that no-one has to sell their home during their lifetime to pay for their care costs.

Under the new scheme individuals will make an immediate contribution towards the cost of their care amounting to up to 80% of their disposable income. Depending on the amount of disposable income a person has, there will also be a deferred charge of up to 5% of their assets per annum. The charge is deferred because it will not have to be met during a person's lifetime. In the case of the principal private residence it will be capped at 15%. Finally, for individuals whose spouse and certain dependants are living in the residence, the charge will be further deferred during their lifetime. The Health Service Executive has responsibility for provision of long-term care 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.

Appointments to State Boards.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

171 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has signed the statutory instrument to establish the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board; when she will sign the instrument in question; the remit of the new board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13339/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

A joint Health Service Executive/Department of Health and Children Transition Group was established to advance the development of the national tertiary paediatric hospital. The next stage of the process, which is being overseen by the Transition Group, 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, taking account of international best practice in the planning of children's hospital services. RKW's report is expected to be completed this month.

The Transition Group is also at an advanced stage of drafting the Statutory Instrument which will establish the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board on a legal basis. The draft proposals have been sent to the relevant parties for comment. The Board, which will be chaired by Mr Philip Lynch, will be responsible for designing, building and equipping the new hospital in accordance with the high level framework brief currently being prepared.

Hospital Services.

Pat Breen

Question:

172 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated with an appointment for knee surgery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13343/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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.

David Stanton

Question:

173 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children awaiting assessment for speech therapy services; the number of children awaiting such services to be provided; the number of children receiving speech therapy in the southern region of the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13350/07]

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

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal 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.

Data Protection.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

174 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if legislation exists or is needed to govern the provision of medical information by non-medical professionals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13351/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Data Protection Acts 1988 and 2003 provide a statutory framework for the collection, use, disclosure, transfer and security of personal information. Under the Data Protection Acts, personal health information is identified as belonging to the category of sensitive information for which additional safeguards apply.

The National Health Information Strategy (2004) placed considerable emphasis on the privacy, confidentiality and security of health information in the context of developing a health system wide information governance framework. My Department is currently, in the initial stages, of preparing proposals for a Health Information Bill which will underpin the new framework. As part of that process, it is intended that there will be a wide-ranging public consultation exercise when the proposals have been drawn up.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Billy Timmins

Question:

175 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to hospitals (details supplied) in County Wicklow; the waiting lists for each of the hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13354/07]

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

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.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Michael Ring

Question:

176 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if cancer screening will be provided for people over the age of 64, both male and female; if she will remove the inequality that exists in relation to the screening services provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13360/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

Evidence based population screening programmes are an essential element of the National Cancer Control Strategy which I published last June. As the Deputy is aware, on 1 January this year, I established a National Cancer Screening Service Board which amalgamates BreastCheck and the Irish Cervical Screening Programme, both of which will be rolled out nationally this year. The total allocation to the new Service in 2007 is €33m. This is a 71% increase on the 2006 allocation to the Programmes and includes an additional €8m for BreastCheck and an additional €5m for the Irish Cervical Screening Programme. The Service will also advise on the implementation of a national colorectal screening programme.

The Irish Cervical Screening Programme Phase One currently offers free cervical screening to women aged between 25 and 60 years in the Mid-Western Region. The National Programme will provide screening every three years for women aged 25-44 years and screening every five years for women aged 45-60 years. Under the National Breast Screening Programme, screening is offered free of charge to all women in the Eastern, North Eastern, Midland and parts of the South Eastern areas in the 50-64 age group.

When the national roll-out of the BreastCheck programme is sufficiently developed and it is assured that a quality service is being delivered at national level, consideration will be given to including older women and thereby continuing the screening of women in the programme who have reached 65 years of age. Any woman irrespective of her age or residence who has immediate concerns or symptoms should contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her area.

Hospital Services.

John Perry

Question:

177 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will intervene with Crumlin Hospital and have an appointment brought forward for a person (details supplied) as their condition has deteriorated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13397/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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.

Michael Ring

Question:

178 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when the results of a blood test will be supplied to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [13403/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

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

Child Care Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

179 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a group (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved and awarded a grant; the outcome of the review in this case; and if funding been provided in view of the fact that there is only two to three months before the break-up of play-schools for the summer months and many of these children will lose out on play-school prior to junior infants if funding is not immediately provided. [13455/07]

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

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

As part of the process of closing the EOCP, the final date for reaching contract stage, for Groups applying for funding under this programme, was 31 December 2006. As the Deputy will be aware, the EOCP is co-funded by the European Union and timescales agreed with the Commission must be observed as financial penalties will accrue to the State if they are not. The Group in question submitted an EOCP staffing grant application to Pobal, which is engaged to assess EOCP and NCIP grants on behalf of my Office, in October 2006. Final information required to complete the assessment was received by Pobal from the Group on 6 December 2006.

As it was not possible at that stage for the application to be brought through the assessment and appraisal process and to contract stage by 31 December 2006, it was recommended by the Programme Appraisal Committee that the Group's application under that Programme be declined and that the application be considered in the context of the forthcoming NCIP staffing grant scheme. The Secretary General of the Department concurred with this recommendation.

In certain circumstances, including where an application is linked to a previous EOCP capital grant, applications for staffing grant assistance are continuing to be considered under the EOCP and, subject to the outcome of a review in each case, the applicants will be advised of the position as soon as possible. In the case of other Groups such as that referred to by the Deputy, which have been declined staffing grant funding under the EOCP as a result of being unable to meet the contractual deadlines of that Programme, and whose applications were not linked to a previous EOCP capital grant, the review of their applications for staffing grant funding will be undertaken as soon as the details of the new NCIP staffing grant scheme are announced. In each case, the review will be undertaken as quickly as possible to facilitate the Group concerned. Officials in my Office will be in contact with the Group in due course to inform them of the outcome of that review.

Hospital Services.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

180 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children her proposals to provide a weekend consultant led palliative care service at Waterford Regional Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13457/07]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

181 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children her proposals to provide a palliative care unit at Waterford Regional Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13458/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 180 and 181 together.

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.

Telecommunications Services.

Martin Ferris

Question:

182 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects the proposed national broadband scheme to be rolled out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13149/07]

Willie Penrose

Question:

188 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to provide broadband for the Ballymahon and Keenagh area of County Longford, and in particular to ensure that rural dwellers can avail of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13460/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 182 and 188 together.

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.

It continues to be a priority of the Government that there will be broadband coverage across the entire country. In that regard my Department has undertaken initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These include investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) in over 120 towns and cities. These MANs will allow the private sector to offer world-class broadband services at competitive costs. My Department has also provided grant-aid under the recently concluded Group Broadband Scheme.

However, despite Government and private investment in broadband I am aware that there are still some parts of the country where the private sector is unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband connectivity. A Steering Committee comprising officials from my Department and ComReg is currently finalising the proposed National Broadband Scheme, which will aim to provide broadband to these unserved areas. The scheme when it is fully rolled out, should ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband from houses and premises in unserved areas including rural areas are met. Work on the design of an appropriate public tender is underway. Indicative maps are being prepared to help inform the tendering process.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

183 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13155/07]

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

In the time available, it has not been possible to identify and assemble the information requested. My Department is compiling the data sought by the Deputy in this regard and I shall forward it to him as soon as possible.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

184 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13201/07]

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

The number of current vacancies as of 29th March 2007 or falling due on or before 4th July 2007 is 56 in all State Boards, State Bodies or other like entities. I intend to fill any vacancies that arise, in the normal way.

Energy Resources.

Ned O'Keeffe

Question:

185 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the grant aid available in establishing a wind turbine business; and the regulations relevant to such an establishment. [13273/07]

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

Support programmes for the establishment of new manufacturing businesses are in the first instance a matter for my colleague Deputy Micheál Martin, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

Energy Review.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

186 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the person who will carry out the review of security of oil supplies to Ireland which is to be completed in 2007 as outlined in section 3.7 of the recent Energy White Paper; the scope and purpose of the report; when work is expected to start and to be completed on the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13347/07]

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

My Department will be proceeding to tender shortly for the review of the future security of Ireland's access to crude oil and oil products.

The review will assess over the medium to longer term, Ireland's security of access to commercial oil supply including the necessary risk analysis. It will also address contingency planning. It is expected that the tender will be awarded by June next with a target date of end year for completion of the review.

Energy Resources.

Eamon Ryan

Question:

187 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he will publish a Handbook on Oil Supply Disruptions Contingency Measures as proposed in section 3.7 of the Energy White Paper; if he will provide further details on the authors, the purpose of the handbook and the regulations in place to enforce such contingency measures should they be needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13348/07]

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

The Handbook on Oil Supply Disruption Contingency Measures will be published and placed on the Department's website by the end of April. The Handbook was compiled by officials of my Department in consultation with the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA), the Irish Petroleum Industry Association (IPIA) and other Departments.

As a member of the International Energy Agency (IEA), Ireland is obliged to maintain contingency arrangements for dealing with oil supply disruptions. The purpose of the Handbook is to clearly set out the legislation and national and international procedures, which underpin and inform decisions in the event of an oil supply disruption. The Handbook will be regularly reviewed and updated.

There are legislative measures in place to deal with an oil supply disruption. Ireland would respond to an oil supply disruption by either the drawdown of NORA stocks or by the use of demand restraint measures or a combination of both. Under the Fuels (Control of Supplies) Acts 1971 and 1982, the Government may make an order empowering the Minister to provide for the regulation or control of the acquisition, supply, distribution or marketing of specified types of fuels, for the maintenance of certain types of fuels and to provide for the control, regulation, restriction or prohibition of the import or the export of specified types of fuels. The National Oil Reserves Agency Act 2007 provides for Ministerial powers to authorise the draw down of NORA stocks in the event of an oil supply crisis.

Question No. 188 answered with QuestionNo. 182.

Fisheries Protection.

Martin Ferris

Question:

189 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the fact that the rod ban implemented on the Shannon in Limerick City includes all fish species and not just salmon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13472/07]

Martin Ferris

Question:

190 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether the ban on salmon fishing on the Shannon in Limerick City is simply a cost saving exercise and will have no impact on fish stocks. [13473/07]

Martin Ferris

Question:

191 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the ban on fishing on the Shannon is opposed by a group (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will take action to support their call for the ban to be revoked. [13474/07]

Martin Ferris

Question:

192 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will immediately lift the ban on rod fishing imposed on the Shannon River from Plassey to Thomond Bridge in Limerick City, which is in effect from 1 March 2007. [13475/07]

Martin Ferris

Question:

193 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the section of the Shannon from Plassey to Thomond Bridge, that is covered by the ban on fishing, especially the part at the long shore, is fished by local people many of them young and from the neighbouring estates of Moyross, Ballynanty, Kileely, Thomondgate and St. Mary’s Park, all of which are in areas covered by the Government’s rapid programme, and that this will aggravate the situation where there are very few leisure and sports facilities. [13476/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 189 to 193, inclusive, together.

A variety of conservation measures have been adopted for the protection of wild salmon stocks in the River Shannon.

The Shannon Fisheries Region (Prohibition of Angling with Rod and Line) Bye-law No. C.S.289, 2007 prohibits angling for all species of fish in a section of the Lower River Shannon from Plassey Bridge to Thomond Bridge during the period commencing 1 March to 30 September.

This bye-law was introduced at the request of the Shannon Regional Fisheries Board, which advised me that wide scale illegal fishing takes place in this area.

I am advised that the Shannon Fisheries Board considers that it would be problematic to implement a management system to protect wild salmon that would be complied with in this area during this season. In the circumstances, permitting angling for any species would adversely impact of wild salmon stocks.

The Board will keep this measure under review for the current season in the context of the longer term adjustments to the salmon management regime on the River Shannon.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

194 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13162/07]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The overall position in regard to the gender composition of appointments to Boards under the aegis of my Department is summarised in the table below.

	2002	2003	2004	2005	2006	2007	Total
Male	13	20	2	20	1	—	56
Female	4	11	1	15	2	—	33

The Advisory Board for Irish Aid was established in August 2002. Board members were appointed for a period of three years. From 2002 to 2005, there were 11 members on the Board, 8 male and 3 female. A new Board was appointed in November 2005 for a period of three years. There are now 16 members on the Board, 8 male and 8 female.

The Development Education Advisory Committee (DEAC) was set up in 2003 to offer policy advice on development education and on ways to increase knowledge and understanding of development issues in Ireland. The original Committee (2003–2005) comprised 4 male and 4 female members. The current Committee (2005-2007) comprises 16 members, 11 male and 5 female.

The Fondation Irlandaise, which formally administers the Irish College in Paris, is managed by an Administration Council and a Board of Management comprising French and Irish nominees. A total of 16 Irish appointments were made to the Administration Council and Board of Management during the period in question, 11 male and 5 female.

The Ireland — United States Commission for Educational Exchange (the Fulbright Commission) finances study, research, teaching and other educational activities between Ireland and the United States of America. A total of 11 appointments have been made to the Commission during the period 2002 to date, of which 6 were male and 5 female.

In February 2003, responsibility for the Díon Committee on Emigrant support in Britain was transferred to the Department of Foreign Affairs from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Since then a total of 6 appointments have been made, 3 male and 3 female.

The Agency for Personal Service Overseas (APSO) was established in 1973 as a semi-state body operating under the aegis of the Department of Foreign Affairs, with a Board of Directors appointed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs. APSO was integrated into the Department of Foreign Affairs on 1 January, 2004. During 2002 and 2003, a total of 5 appointments were made to the Board, 4 male and 1 female.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

195 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13208/07]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

I envisage making the following appointments or nominations in the relevant period:

The term of office of one member of the Ireland-United States Commission for Educational Exchange (the Fulbright Commission) will come up for renewal in May 2007.

The terms of office of the Administrative Council and Board of Management of the Fondation Irlandaise (the Irish Cultural Centre) in Paris expire in May and the composition of the new Council and Board is currently under consideration. Ireland and France each appoints seven members to the Administrative Council. Ireland usually appoints fourteen of the fifteen members of the Board of Management, which is a less formal subsidiary body of the Council. These fourteen Irish nominees include the seven Irish members of the Council.

The Government has decided, in line with the recommendation of the White Paper on Overseas Development Assistance, to establish a Task Force on Hunger. It is anticipated that the membership of this Task Force will be announced before July. The Task Force will be appointed for a period of approximately six months and will present its final report to the Minister of State for Development Co-operation and Human Rights.

Visa Applications.

Billy Timmins

Question:

196 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position in relation to people living in Bellarus who have to apply to Moscow for visas and so on and have been travelling to Moscow to apply and to pick up the documentation; if there is an arrangement between the embassy in Moscow with the Bellarus Foreign Ministry to courier visas and so on back to Bellarus where they can be picked up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13356/07]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. D. Ahern)

The majority of visa applications from Belarus are those relating to travel to Ireland of Chernobyl Children's groups. Following my meeting in Minsk in 2005 with various interested NGOs, arrangements were put in place by the Embassy in Moscow to ensure that the introduction of a visa requirement for the groups would not create obstacles for children's travel. These arrangements, which include processing within 1 week by the Visa Office in Moscow of applications which arrive by courier from Minsk and the issue of gratis visas, are operating satisfactorily and there is no impediment to children's travel. The staff of the Visa Office in Moscow has recently been increased to deal with the additional applications. There is no requirement for the children to travel to Moscow concerning their applications which are forwarded to the Embassy and returned through a courier arrangement.

Otherwise, visa applications from people living in Belarus can be lodged at the Irish Embassy, Moscow either in person, by courier, or lodged by a third party on behalf of an applicant. Most applications are lodged in the latter way.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

197 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13154/07]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

Since the establishment of my Department in June 2002 I have made the following appointments of each gender to the key State boards under the aegis of my Department. The Deputy will appreciate that in the case of some of these Boards, there are nominating rights conferred on certain representative or interest.

Name of Body / State Board	Appointments by gender since June 2002
	Male	Female
Arts Council	6	7
Abbey Theatre	4	1
Bord Scannán na hÉireann	4	3
National Museum of Ireland	10	6
Irish Museum of Modern Art	9	6
National Library of Ireland	6	6
Crawford Gallery Cork	8	8
Governors and Guardians of Marsh’s Library	1	1
Chester Beatty Library	0	3
National Archives Advisory Council	6	6
National Gallery of Ireland Board of Governors and Guardians	8	1
National Concert Hall	8	7
Irish Manuscripts Commission	13	7
Irish Sports Council	9	4
Horse Racing Ireland	17	1
Bord na gCon	9	2
Fáilte Ireland (National Tourism Development Authority)	12	5
Bórd Fáilte	4	0
Culture Ireland	10	6
National Sports Campus Development Authority	9	4
Total	153	84

While appointments to the board of Tourism Ireland Limited are made by the North South Ministerial Council I nominated three persons — two male and one female.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

198 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13200/07]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

The following are the list of current vacancies and vacancies that are due to arise in the period referred to by the Deputy on the Boards of the key bodies under the aegis of my Department.

A vacancy currently exists on the Board of the National Library of Ireland for a member of staff of the National Library of Ireland and consultations are in hand for the making of this appointment as set out in Section 19 (6) of the National Cultural Institutions Act, 1997.

There are currently six vacancies on the Board of the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA). Appointments to the Board are made in accordance with the provisions of the Articles of Association of IMMA.

There are currently two vacancies on the Board of Governors and Guardians of the National Gallery of Ireland. The National Gallery of Ireland, Board of Governors and Guardians was constituted under the National Gallery of Ireland Acts, 1854-55.

Two vacancies will arise in June on the Board of Archbishop Marsh's Library. The Board of the Governors and Guardians of Archbishop Marsh's Library was constituted under an Act of Parliament in 1707.

Four vacancies will arise on the Board of Failte Ireland on the 28th May 2007. Appointments to the Board are made in accordance with the procedures set out in Section 14 of the National Tourism Development Authority Act 2003.

In appointing persons to the Boards of key bodies under the aegis of my Department I follow the guidelines set out in the Cabinet Handbook regarding eligibility, transparency and gender balance.

Arts Funding.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

199 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the funding available to assist an arts group (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13316/07]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Mr. O’Donoghue)

The Arts Council is the main channel through which State support for the Arts is channelled. They are statutorily independent under the Arts Act, 2003, and I have no role to play in their funding decisions.

The Arts Council has developed a Children's Initiative where funding is given to organisations working in the area of young people, children and the arts. A total of €185,000 has been offered this year. The area of children and the arts is a high priority for the Arts Council and they are looking carefully at a number of initiatives to address strategically important issues for young people and children over the next four years.

Industrial Development.

Martin Ferris

Question:

200 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to plans by the IDA to bring potential investors to the north Kerry area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13152/07]

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

IDA Ireland is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) to Ireland and its regions. The marketing of individual areas for new or expansion FDI investments and jobs is a day-to-day operational matter for the agency. While I may give general policy directives to the agency, I am precluded under the Industrial Development Acts from giving directives regarding individual undertakings or from giving preference to one area over others.

The attractiveness of Kerry for inward investment has to be seen within a regional context. In line with the National Spatial Strategy, the locations of emphasis for IDA in Kerry are the linked Hubs of Tralee and Killarney. The Agency promotes the County as part of an integrated region with access to a population of approx.140,000, as well as the expanded population of the Mid-West and South-West regions. Based on the strengths of the region, IDA is particularly targeting the ICT (incl. software), and Globally Traded Business sectors.

A sectoral focus that is built on regional strengths and supported by the third level sector is key to creating ‘pull' factors for attracting investment to the region. The Strategic Competitiveness Programme that is operated by IDA is designed to help consolidate and grow client companies existing operations in the region by achieving substantial productivity improvements or the addition of new business functions such as R&D, marketing, logistics management, shared service centres and customer or technical support activities.

At the end of 2006, there were eighteen IDA assisted companies in County Kerry employing 1,785 people in a variety of industries such as Pharmaceuticals, Engineering and Consumer Products.

In addition, IDA Ireland is engaged with the Kerry Employment Action Team and the newly formed inter-agency Expert Group on Kerry to plan for the County's future economic growth. Both groups are focussed on how Kerry can best position itself in the context of the National Spatial Strategy through its response to the National Development Plan.

IDA also works in close cooperation with Shannon Development, in the development of the Kerry Technology Park (KTP). The Park provides state-of-the-art accommodation and facilities for both indigenous industry and foreign investors.

Furthermore, IDA Ireland works with the Institute of Technology, Tralee in developing the skill-sets necessary to attract high value-added employment to the County and to encourage greater interaction with industry on areas of research and development. The Agency also works closely with FÁS to provide guidance in developing the skill-sets needed by those in the workforce.

I am confident that the policies and strategies in place will deliver the best results in terms of investment and jobs for the people of the Region.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

201 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13159/07]

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

The number of nominations from each gender to State boards is as follows:

FÁS

	Female	Male
2002	0	0
2003	0	0
2004	1	1
2005	6	13
2006	0	0
2007	0	0

Personal Injuries Assessment Board (Statutory Body since 2004)

	Female	Male
2002	N/A	N/A
2003	N/A	N/A
2004	5	6
2005	0	0
2006	1	1
2007	0	0

Science Foundation Ireland (Statutory Body since July 2003)

	Female	Male
2002	N/A	N/A
2003	5	7
2004	2	0
2005	0	2
2006	2	2
2007	0	1

Employment Appeals Tribunal

	Female	Male
2002	3	4
2003	0	3
2004	26	77
2005	1	0
2006	0	0
2007	32	83

Labour Relations Commission

	Female	Male
2002	0	0
2003	2	5
2004	0	1
2005	0	0
2006	1	6
2007	0	1

Health and Safety Authority

	Female	Male
2002	0	1
2003	0	0
2004	4	7
2005	1	0
2006	0	0
2007	0	0

IDA Ireland

	Female	Male
2002	1	1
2003	1	2
2004	0	2
2005	0	2
2006	1	1
2007	1	1

Enterprise Ireland

	Female	Male
2002	2	1
2003	0	0
2004	0	0
2005	1	1
2006	0	0
2007	0	0

Shannon Free Airport Development Co.

	Female	Male
2002	1	2
2003	0	1
2004	0	3
2005	1	2
2006	2	1
2007	0	0

Forfás

	Female	Male
2002	0	3
2003	0	3
2004	0	4
2005	2	0
2006	1	3
2007	0	2

It should be noted that these figures include some ex officio appointments. Legislation decrees that some named office holders must be on the Board of Forfás.

Intertrade Ireland

	Female	Male
2002	3	3
2003	0	0
2004	0	0
2005	3	3
2006	3	3
2007	0	0

National Standards Authority of Ireland

	Female	Male
2002	2	3
2003	0	4
2004	1	3
2005	1	2
2006	1	0
2007	0	0

The above figures do not include the appointment of elected staff representatives, which is provided for in the NSAI Act 1996.

Nítrigin Éireann Teoranta (NET)

	Female	Male
2002	0	5
2003	0	2
2004	0	0
2005	0	0
2006	0	0
2007	0	0

Company Law Review Group

	Female	Male
2002	N/A	N/A
2003	N/A	N/A
2004	7	13
2005	7	13
2006	7	13
2007	7	13

Irish Accounting & Auditing Supervisory Authority (statutory body since January 2006)

	Female	Male
2002	N/A	N/A
2003	N/A	N/A
2004	N/A	N/A
2005	N/A	N/A
2006	4	11
2007	4	11

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

202 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13205/07]

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

Appointments to State boards are as follow:

National Competitiveness Council

The terms of reference of the NCC stipulates that four Members shall retire on May 31 each year, therefore, 4 new appointments will be made soon after this date.

Patents Agents Registration Board/ Trade Mark Agents Registration Board

Apart from the Controller of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks the terms of appointment of the Members of both Boards are due to expire on 12 April 2007. Four appointments to each Board will then be made.

Labour Relations Commission

One vacancy will arise in the Rights Commissioner Service on 4 May. Also, Towards 2016 contains a commitment for the appointment of 5 additional rights commissioners, the Labour Relations Commission has been requested to submit panels to the Minister, from which the appointments will be made as soon aspossible.

Enterprise Ireland

There are two vacancies on the Board of EI that are expected to be filled by 4 July 2007.

Crafts Council of Ireland

Three vacancies (Ministerial Appointments) will arise on the Board of the CCoI following their AGM, which is expected to take place before the end of June.

Shannon Development

Two vacancies will arise on the Board of Shannon Development at the Company's AGM on 27 April next. Appointments to the Board are made by the Minister, with the agreement of the Minister for Finance and the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism. It is expected that the two vacancies will be filled before 4 July.

Forfás

The legislation states that the Director General of SFI must be on the Board of Forfás; therefore, the incoming Director General of SFI will be appointed to the Board of Forfás, which is expected to happen on 2 July 2007.

NSAI

In accordance with the legislation governing appointments on the NSAI Board, there will be three appointments to the Board of the NSAI in April of this year.

National Consumer Agency

13 appointments consisting of 12 members and a chairperson will be made to the Board of the National Consumer Agency, on enactment of the Consumer Protection Bill. It is most likely that the Bill will be enacted within the timeframe referred to in the question and that the Board of the Agency shall be appointed by the Minister prior to 4th July.

Company Closures.

Billy Timmins

Question:

203 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the situation regarding a company (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if it is in liquidation; the situation with respect to individuals who are owed money by the company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13221/07]

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

While I have no direct function in relation to the matter raised by the Deputy, I understand that the High Court appointed a provisional liquidator to the company concerned on the 23rd of March 2007. The liquidator is an officer of the Court and will report back to the Court.

Under the Company Law Enforcement Act 2001, liquidators have certain duties to report to the Director of Corporate Enforcement. For example, where a company is insolvent, liquidators are obliged to provide a report to the Director on the conduct of the company's directors. They are further obliged to make application to the High Court for the restriction of each of the company's directors unless specifically relieved of that obligation by the Director of Corporate Enforcement. The Director is independent in the performance of his statutory duties.

Decentralisation Programme.

Billy Timmins

Question:

204 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position in relation to a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if they will be transferred to Carlow as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13233/07]

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

My Department is required to relocate 250 posts to Carlow under the Government's Decentralisation Programme and this is planned to occur by the end of 2009.

In order to accommodate staff who wish to move earlier than the projected building completion date of late 2009, officials of my Department, in consultation with the Department of Finance and the OPW, as well as decentralising staff and Business Units, are progressing an earlier move to Carlow. The OPW have advised my Department that negotiations on the procurement of interim accommodation to facilitate an advance move are nearing completion.

This advance move option will allow for the movement of approximately 100 decentralising staff to Carlow during the second quarter of 2007. I can confirm that the full complement of Clerical Officers required for the interim move in June 2007 has been selected in accordance with the decentralisation staffing protocols, as agreed by the Department of Finance and the staff unions. Under these protocols, Ms Carthy's seniority in the Clerical Officer grade was not sufficient to deem her eligible for selection as part of the advance party to Carlow.

I can confirm that Ms Carthy will form part of the staffing complement required for the substantive move to Carlow scheduled to take place in 2009.

Research Funding.

John McGuinness

Question:

205 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures he is putting in place to ensure that the investments being undertaken in his research and development policy deliver value for money; the way the outputs from investment will be measured in relation to inputs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13278/07]

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

The Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation 2006-2013 contains a significant number of clear quantitative goals, progress towards attainment of which will be regularly tracked. Notable examples of these include the commitment to double our annual output of Science, Engineering and Technology PhDs to 997 by 2013; to increase the annual output of Humanities and Social Sciences PhDs from 187 in 2003 to 315 by 2013; to grow the number of Principal Investigators by 350 by 2013 and postdoctoral researchers by 1,050; to grow annual Business Investment in R & D by almost 150% to €2.5bn by 2013; to grow the number of indigenous companies with R&D activity over €100,000 from 462 in 2003 to 1050 by 2013; to grow the number of indigenous companies with R&D activity over €2,000,000 from 21 in 2003 to 100 by 2013; to grow the number of foreign affiliate companies performing significant R&D from 60 in 2003 to 150 by 2013.

Progress against these headline indicators will be closely monitored by the Interdepartmental Committee on STI, chaired by my Department which reports to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation. I can assure the Deputy that a more comprehensive set of indicators for the measurement of the efficiency and effectiveness of our substantial investment under the Government's Strategy for Science Technology & Innovation 2006-13 is currently being developed under the aegis of the Interdepartmental Committee. This will address both the quantitative and qualitative goals of the Strategy.

Within this overall approach, specific value for money reviews will also take place. This year specific reviews will be carried out on Science Foundation Ireland and the Discover Science and Engineering awareness programme. The overall measurement process will also be informed by the Expenditure Review of Spending on Science & Technology, which took place in 2004.

Passports for Investment Scheme.

John McGuinness

Question:

206 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in relation to the number of passports issued in the passports for investment scheme, his Department has monitored the passport holders or investors to determine if they acted or are acting within the guidelines of the scheme; if the terms of investments made relative to the scheme have been complied with; if his Department continues to monitor the guidelines to ensure compliance; if difficulty has emerged relative to the scheme or investments; if his Department has a role in resolving such issues where they relate to a breach in the guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13279/07]

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

The operation of this scheme, which was abolished by the Government in 1998, is a matter for the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Industrial Development.

John Perry

Question:

207 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will reduce the amount on the freehold lease for a company (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13398/07]

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

The management of IDA Ireland's industrial property portfolio, including the purchase and disposal of property, is a day-to-day operational matter for the Agency as part of the statutory responsibility assigned to it by the Oireachtas and not a matter in which I have a function.

I have been informed by IDA Ireland that, in 1998, the Agency sold 1.3152 Hectares, on a leasehold basis, to Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd. In October, 2006 the Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd. requested that IDA sell the freehold interest to them.

IDA policy for land sales is to obtain market value when disposing of property assets and part of this process involves seeking an independent valuation by a national accredited valuer. Accordingly, the Agency obtained a freehold valuation of these lands from Savills HOK and, on 27 March last, the Agency informed Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd, through their solicitor, Johnson & Johnson, of this valuation. IDA Ireland is awaiting a reply from Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd.

The Agency has indicated to me that if the Community Enterprise is unhappy with the valuation quoted, they are welcome to seek their own valuation from valuers with nationwide valuation experience for comparison purposes and revert to IDA on the matter.

Consumer Protection.

John Perry

Question:

208 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has received the submission by an organisation (details supplied); and if he will agree to address their concerns in relation to the Consumer Protection Bill Section 48 Prohibition on surcharges where one method of payment was chosen in preference to another; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13401/07]

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

I refer the Deputy to my reply of yesterday on the same subject to his Question No. 424.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

209 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13165/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The five statutory agencies operating under the aegis of my Department are the Pensions Board, the Combat Poverty Agency, the Citizens Information Board (formerly Comhairle), the Family Support Agency and the Social Welfare Tribunal. In addition the Pensions Ombudsman comes under the remit of my Department.

The following are the number of appointments, by gender, to each board since 2002.

The Pensions Board

	Male	Female
2002	1	1
2003	None
2004	1	0
2005	9	8*
2006	None
2007	None

*New board appointed on expiry of previous board.

Combat Poverty Agency

	Male	Female
2002	0	1
2003	5	6
2004	2	3
2005	0	1
2006	7	3
2007 to date	2	0

Citizens Information Board (formerly Comhairle)

	Male	Female
2002	4	4
2003	6	2
2004	1	1
2005	0	0
2006	9	3
2007	0	2

Family Support Agency

	Male	Female
2003	5	7
2004	None
2005	2	6
2006	3	4
2007	None

The board of the Family Support Agency was established on 6th May 2003.

Social Welfare Tribunal

	Male	Female
2002	None
2003	5	1
2004	None
2005	None
2006	None
2007	4	1

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

210 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13211/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The five statutory agencies operating under the aegis of my Department are the Pensions Board, the Combat Poverty Agency, the Citizens Information Board (formerly Comhairle), the Family Support Agency and the Social Welfare Tribunal. In addition the Pensions Ombudsman comes under the remit of my Department.

On 30th March 2007 I appointed Ms. Patricia Walshe and Ms. Laurie Cearr as members of the Citizens Information Board. No other appointments are due to be made to this Board before 4 July 2007.

Two vacancies will arise on the board of the Combat Poverty Agency between 29th March 2007 and 4th July 2007.

No appointments are due to be made to the Pensions Board, the Family Support Agency and the Social Welfare Tribunal between 29th March 2007 and 4th July 2007.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Billy Timmins

Question:

211 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position in relation to the new free travel pass for Northern Ireland for old age pensioners when they go to their social welfare office in their town, that is, Baltinglass and Wicklow Town, as they are told that they cannot get the application stamped and have to go to the local office in Bray, Arklow or Carlow; the reason for same; if the office in the area where they reside will be allowed to stamp the applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13232/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

I have recently announced the implementation of the all Ireland free travel scheme which commenced on 2 April and enables pensioners resident here and in Northern Ireland to travel free of charge on all eligible transport services on the island. Implementation of a single travel pass for all-Ireland free travel, acceptable in both jurisdictions, will require the completion of the Integrated Ticketing project being developed under the auspices of the Department of Transport and subsequent integration with the ticketing systems in operation in Northern Ireland. My Department has on-going engagement with these bodies and projects.

Pending development of the integrated ticket system, my Department has engaged with the Department of Regional Development and Translink, the main transport authority in Northern Ireland, to put in place an interim scheme to permit senior residents of both jurisdictions to avail of free travel within the other jurisdiction. As part of this scheme residents of this jurisdiction wishing to travel in the North will be required to use a travel card similar to smart pass as used by their Northern Ireland counterparts. Customers need to apply for the travel pass in person and to supply photographs for authentication at their local Social Welfare Office which is considered the most appropriate location for this service. This is a once off transaction for customers availing of this scheme, but the level of applications will be kept under review to determine if there is a need at some future point to alter the policy.

Pension Provisions.

John Deasy

Question:

212 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to pay pro rata pensions to those self-employed persons who have made contributions for between five and ten years when reaching pension age; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13340/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

A special pension for the self-employed was introduced in 1999 to enable people who were over age 56 at the time of the introduction of PRSI for the self-employed in 1988, and who could not therefore meet the standard qualifying conditions, to receive a contributory pension. To qualify, a person must have been age 56 or over on 6 April 1988, started paying social insurance contributions as a self-employed person on or after this date and have at least 260 full-rate social insurance contributions paid on a compulsory basis since first starting to pay social insurance contributions as a self-employed person. The personal rate and increases for a qualified adult and a qualified child are paid at 50% of the standard maximum rate. I consider that the special arrangements introduced in 1999 are a reasonable response to the position in which those who qualify found themselves when they reached retirement and that the pension being paid represents good value for the contributions made.

Michael Ring

Question:

213 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans and when he expects to announce a scheme where stay at home spouses will be entitled to a pension in their own right; his proposals in this regard particularly for those women who have worked in the family home for years prior to the homemakers scheme; and when he expects to announce these changes. [13359/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Mr. Brennan)

The social welfare pension rights of those who take time out of the workforce for caring duties are protected by the homemaker's scheme which was introduced in, and took effect from, 1994. Government policy in that, within the existing contributory and non-contributory pension system, as many people as possible qualify for payments in their own right. In this regard measures have been taken over the last 10 years to provide pensions for people who did not qualify including the easing of qualifying conditions for contributory pensions, the introduction of special measures such as the pre-53 pension and improvements to the means test for non-contributory pensions.

Many of those who were homemakers prior to 1994 are being paid as qualified adults on their spouses' pension. Since 2002 it has been open to couples to opt for the qualified adult portion of the pension to be paid directly to the spouse or partner. The Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007, provided that, from September, separate payments will be made generally in all cases unless the couple decide otherwise. It is estimated that these changes will mean that an additional 4,000 spouses will receive separate payments each year. Qualified adults who do not wish to receive a separate payment will continue to be facilitated.

The homemaker's scheme is being reviewed in the context of the forthcoming Green Paper on pensions. Decisions in relation to the homemakers scheme, and the position of older people in general who do not at present qualify for any support under the social welfare pensions system, will be made in the context of the framework for long-term policy which will be developed after the publication of the Green Paper.

Planning Issues.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

214 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if he has received further representations regarding the development of lands (details supplied) in County Dublin; his views in relation to this matter; his further views on whether he has a responsibility to ensure a fully open and transparent account is given in respect of this matter; the further investigations he has undertaken; when he expects these investigations will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13237/07]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

215 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if he has received representations regarding the development of lands (details supplied) in County Dublin; the steps he has taken to ensure there is a fully open and transparent account given in respect of this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13238/07]

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

219 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if he was asked by the Taoiseach to investigate the manner in which lands (details supplied) in County Dublin were the subject of planning objections by a company under his control, Aer Rianta/Dublin Airport Authority, whose objections were successful on appeal to An Bord Pleanála on grounds of public safety; if he was informed by the board of the company of their subsequent joint venture with a private company for the development of the same lands in a similar manner to that to which they had objected on grounds of public safety; the results of any such investigation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13236/07]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 214, 215 and 219 together.

As the Deputy may be aware, this matter is the subject of legal proceedings currently under way and is therefore sub judice. In the circumstances I consider that it would be inappropriate for me to comment on the matter raised.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

216 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Transport the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13167/07]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The table shows the appointments by gender to boards under the aegis of my department since 2002:

Year	Male	Female
2002	38	15
2003	42	13
2004	61	11
2005	44	10
2006	33	6
2007	7	4

Note: The above statistics include the transfer of responsibilities for Port Companies to my Department from 1st January 2006.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

217 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13213/07]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The table outlines the existing and anticipated vacancies on State boards and other bodies under my aegis for the period in question. I will give due consideration to filling any particular vacancy as and when that vacancy arises and taking account of the particular circumstances prevailing at the time.

State Board	Vacancies Existing or Anticipated
National Roads Authority	4
Advisory Council to the Commission for Taxi Regulation	17
Commissioner for Taxi Regulation	1
Advisory Council on Rail Safety	14
Irish Aviation Authority	2
Railway Procurement Agency	1
CIE	2
Road Safety Authority	3
Dublin Airport Authority	Nil
Cork Airport Authority	Nil
Shannon Airport Authority	Nil
Dublin Transportation Office	Nil
Medical Bureau of Road Safety	1
Marine Casualty Investigation Board	Nil
Port of Cork	5
Drogheda Port Company	3
Dublin Port Company	6
Dun Laoghaire Harbour Company	6
Galway Harbour Company	6
Dundalk Port Company	9
Wicklow Port Company	9
Shannon Foynes Port Company	6
New Ross Port Company	6

Road Traffic Offences.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

218 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if it is intended to introduce penalty points for drivers not using or incorrectly using vehicle lights including headlights, dipped headlights, front and rear fog lights and indicator lights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13235/07]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The Road Traffic (Lighting of Vehicles) Regulations 1963-2006 provide for the use of lighting on vehicles, including the use of headlights, dipped headlights, front and rear fog lights and indicator lights. Enforcement of all Road Traffic Regulations is a matter for An Garda Síochána. The Road Traffic Act 2002, which provides the legislative basis for the penalty points system, identifies 69 offences to which the system applies. All of these are directly related to road safety.

Since 13 September 2006, as a consequence of the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006, responsibility for matters relating to vehicle standards, including the lighting of vehicles, has passed to the Road Safety Authority.

Question No. 219 answered with QuestionNo. 214.

Rural Transport Services.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

220 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Transport when it is proposed to provide transport under the rural transport initiative for places such as Monivea, Athenry, Tuam, Loughrea, Mountbellew, Ballygar and other towns and villages in north Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13320/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Mr. Gallagher)

I recently announced the arrangements for a new Rural Transport Programme (RTP). This new Programme builds on the success of the pilot Rural Transport Initiative (2000-2006) and puts it on a permanent mainstreamed basis. Thirty-four community transport groups throughout the country are currently being funded under the RTP to address the particular transport needs of their rural areas. Two of these groups — Bealach and the South East Galway RTI — are operational in County Galway.

Pobal, which administers the Rural Transport Programme on behalf of my Department, will work closely with the existing groups to maximise the impact of the increased funding through, among other things, increased service provision and wider area coverage as well as ensuring continued value for money.

The bottom-up approach in the pilot phase of the RTI demonstrated the effectiveness of the community and voluntary initiative and involvement in the provision of rural transport services. The new Rural Transport Programme will build on that concept. Consequently, the main drivers of community rural transport will be the local communities themselves. Therefore, existing rural transport groups proposing to expand their services or local community groups considering setting up of a new scheme should make contact with Pobal at Holbrook House, Holles Street, Dublin 2 (www.pobal.ie).

Road Signage.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

221 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 577 of 18 October, 2005, if the proposed measure has been adopted as part of the new traffic signs manual; if not, the reason for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13321/07]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

As I stated in my reply to Question No. 577 of 18 October, 2005, it is the responsibility of all motorists in all circumstances and on all road types, including dual carriageways and motorways, to drive in a manner that does not give rise to danger to themselves or other road users. That responsibility relates in particular to the speed at which vehicles are driven, even where the speed is less than the prevailing speed limit.

The proposal presented in association with the Deputy's question will be considered by my Department in the context of the review of the Traffic Signs Manual, acting on the advice of the National Roads Authority and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. It is intended that the review of the Traffic Signs Manual will be completed later this year and that any amendments required in relation to regulatory traffic signs identified in the review will be pursued at that time.

Road Traffic Offences.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

222 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the penalty point offence categories which are provided for in legislation but not yet activated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13353/07]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

The Road Traffic Act, 2002, which is the legislative basis for the system of penalty points, sets out an extensive list of offences which will attract penalty points under the Act. The offences at reference numbers 1 to 6, 10 and 16 as per Part 1, the offences at reference numbers 1 to 14 and 17 to 20 as per Part 2, the offences at reference numbers 1 to 6 as per Part 3 and the single offence at Part 5 of the First Schedule have not yet been introduced.

Road Safety.

Willie Penrose

Question:

223 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Transport if he will furnish statistics in relation to the number of accidents that occurred between 12 midnight and 2 a.m. between March 2006 and March 2007; the number of accidents which occur between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m.; the number of accidents which occur between 4 a.m. and 6 a.m.; the number of accidents that occur between 6 a.m. and 8 a.m.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13461/07]

Minister for Transport (Mr. Cullen)

Responsibility for the collection of structured information on road safety, including the publication of the annual Road Collision Facts Report, now lies with the Road Safety Authority. I understand that the statistics relating to 2005 are currently being analysed and authenticated in preparation for publication.

Irish Language.

Joe Higgins

Question:

224 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason the signposts for Dingle/Daingean Uí Chúis have had the English version of the name taped over while towns such as Dungloe, Belmullet, Ballyvourney and Spiddal have not had bilingual signposts interfered with. [13319/07]

Joe Higgins

Question:

229 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will accede to the request of Kerry County Council to have the bilingual names of Dingle and Daingean Uí Chúis restored following the plebiscite which supported this view. [13318/07]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 224 and 229 together.

Kerry County Council held a plebiscite in October 2006 in the non-municipal town of An Daingean and subsequently made a submission to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government requesting that the Government make an Order under the Local Government Act 1946 to change the name of the town to Dingle Daingean Uí Chúis. However, it is not within my power under the Official Languages Act to declare an English language or a bilingual placename as proposed in the question put to the local plebiscite and this was made clear to the County Council at all times.

The signposts referred to are maintained by the relevant County Councils and I have no operational role in the matter.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

225 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13156/07]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

As the Deputy is aware, the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs was established on the 6th June 2002. Details of the number of appointments to State Boards for which my Department has responsibility since that date are outlined in the table below. The table provides details of the appointments per year and per gender, and include a number of re-appointments to new Boards.

	Appointments made from June 2002	Appointments made in 2003	Appointments made in 2004	Appointments made in 2005	Appointments made in 2006	Appointments made to date in 2007
State Body	No. of Males	No. of Females	No. of Males	No. of Females	No. of Males	No. of Females	No. of Males	No. of Females	No. of Males	No. of Females	No. of Males	No. of Females
Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board	0	0	1	0	0	0	3	1	Board dissolved on 4th January 2006	Not Applicable
Dormant Accounts Board — established 4th January 2006	Not Applicable	Not Applicable	Not Applicable	Not Applicable	8	4	1	1
Commissioners for Charitable Donations & Bequests in Ireland	0	0	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	0
Western Development Commission	0	0	1	0	0	0	7	5	0	0	0	0
Údarás na Gaeltachta	0	0	0	0	0	0	1	2	0	0	0	0
Bord na Leabhar Gaeilge	6	5	0	0	0	0	7	5	1	0	0	0
An Foras Teanga	Appointed by North/South Ministerial Council — total of 23 Members, of which 7 are female	Appointed by North/South Ministerial Council — 1 Male Appointment	0	Term extended for one year to 12 Dec 2006 by North/South Ministerial Council — total of 23 Members, of which 7 are female	Appointed by North/South Ministerial Council — total of 24 Members, of which 6 are female	0	0
An Coimisiún Logainmneacha	0	0	7	5	0	0	0	0	8	7	0	0
Arramara Teo	Transferred to this Dept. from Dept. of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources by Government Decision on 21st July 2003	2	1	0	0	0	0	With effect from 16 October 2006, following the sale of the State’s shareholding in the company to Údarás na Gaeltachta, Arramara Teoranta is no longer a commercial state body.
Area Development Management Ltd	Government Appointments only became applicable from 2004	2	6	Not Applicable — Area Development Management Ltd was renamed Pobal in 2005
Pobal — established in 2005	Not Applicable — Pobal only formed in 2005	2	4	6	1	Government reappointing four Directors for a further term.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

226 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13202/07]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

It is anticipated that a number of vacancies will arise, within the following two State Bodies which are under the aegis of my Department, during June 2007. With respect to Pobal, four Directors will retire, by rotation, at the Company's AGM in June 2007, and Government has decided to re-appoint these Directors for a further term. With respect to the Dormant Accounts Board, four vacancies will arise in June 2007.

Calafoirt agus Céanna.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

227 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an gcuirfear deontas ar fáil chun an balla cosanta ag an Bhaile Thiar, Oileán Thoraigh a chríochnú; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [13226/07]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

Ba mhaith liom a mheabhrú don Teachta go bhfuil caiteachas substaintiúil déanta cheana féin chun na hoibreacha is práinní a bhain le cosaint an Bhaile Thiar, Oileán Thoraigh, a chur i gcrích. Cheadaigh an Roinn Ealaíon, Oidhreachta, Gaeltachta agus Oileán, mar a bhí, suim €931,988 chun na críche sin sa mbliain 2000 agus i 2005 cheadaigh mo Roinnse €32,500 breise. Anuas air sin, cheadaigh Comhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall €222,960 don tionscnamh seo.

De réir meastacháin a fuarthas ó Chomhairle Chonate Dhún na nGall, tuigtear dom go dteastódh €255,000 breise chun obair ar an mballa a chur i gcrích ina iomláine, ar a n-áiritear an balla a ardú agus síneadh 30m a chur leis.

Tá an togra seo pléite idir oifigigh de chuid mo Roinne agus na Comhairle Contae le gairid agus tuigtear dom go bhfuil aontú ginearálta ann nach féidir an obair atá le déanamh a áireamh mar obair fhíor-riachtanach mar nach bhfuil cosaint áitreabh nó áiseanna poiblí eile i gceist. Sna cúinsí sin, tuigfidh an Teachta nach dtuillfeadh an tionscnamh seo tosaíocht ard i gcomparáid le hoibreacha práinneacha agus riachtanacha eile atá le maoiniú trí Vóta mo Roinne.

Community Development.

Billy Timmins

Question:

228 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position in relation to a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; when they will be notified as to the reason their application was refused; if information on the appeals procedure will be sent to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13230/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Mr. N. Ahern)

I would refer the Deputy to my answer to his previous question of 20 March 2007. The Group referred to by the Deputy made an application to my Department under the Programme of Grants for Locally-Based Community and Voluntary Organisations. Notification of the decision on this application has issued recently to the Group, outlining the reason for the decision and providing contact details should the Group wish to obtain more detailed feedback in relation to this decision. Information on the appeals procedure for the Programme is also included in this notification.

Question No. 229 answered with QuestionNo. 224.

Denis Naughten

Question:

230 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the funding available to local authorities for the erection of flashing amber safety lights at schools; the budget available within his Department for this initiative; if the funds can be used to erect electronic speed limit signs or if it is specifically for flashing amber safety lights; the allocation provided to each local authority in 2007 for this scheme; the number of schools where such lights have been erected to date, under the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13326/07]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

CLÁR provides 100% funding specifically for flashing amber safety lights at all primary schools in CLÁR areas that do not already have such lights. This measure does not fund the installation of electronic speed limits signs.

In 2006 I announced funding in the region of €3m for this measure. The Local Authority selects the projects and my Department has no role in the selection process. The Local Authority has sole responsibility for the administration of this scheme.

On receipt of applications from Local Authorities, approval of funding was granted to the value €2.7m by my Department under the CLÁR programme. The list of schools approved for funding in 2006 is on the attached sheet.

Details of CLÁR funding approved between 2002-2005 are available on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie.

Flashing Amber Safety Lights at Schools Approved 2006

County	Amount Approved	Allocation	3,000,000
Carlow	42,000.00
Cavan	133,000	Approved	2,793,000
Clare	52,500	Remainder	207,000
Cork	308,000
Donegal	210,000
Galway	220,500
Kerry	35,000
Kilkenny	98,000
Laois	70,000
Leitrim	14,000
Limerick	189,000
Longford	70,000
Louth
Mayo	609,000
Meath	28,000
Monaghan	203,000
Offaly	35,000
Roscommon	112,000
Sligo	7,000
Tipperary North	98,000
Tipperary South	133,000
Waterford	77,000
Westmeath	49,000
Total	2,793,000

Local Authority: Carlow

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L 7005-29	Scoil Naomh Fhingin	17096K	Garryhill	Garryhill	On either side of school within 200 metres	7,000.00
L 7024- 0	Scoil Nais Mhuire	09320Q	Droimfeigh	Garryhill	On either side of school within 200 metres	7,000.00
L 3007-0	Scoil Naomh Padraig	18510W	Ballymurphy	Ballymurphy	On either side of school within 200 metres	7,000.00
L 3037-45	Scoil Nais Molaise	02124E	Old Leighlin	Old Leighlin	On either side of school within 200 metres	7,000.00
R729-113	St Brendans NS	17481N	Drummons St Mullins	Glynn	On either side of school within 200 metres	7,000.00
L 3010-0	Moling-Glynn National School	17330P	St Mullins, Via Carlow, Kilkenny	Glynn	On either side of school within 200 metres	7,000.00
					Total	42,000.00

Local Authority: Cavan

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
R-199-2	Killeshandra C.O.I. School	11205F	Killeshandra, Co. Cavan	Killeshandra	On both approaches to the school	7,000
R188	Darley N.S	12312L	Munnilly td, Bridge Street, Cootehill	Cootehill Urban	2 on the verge	7,000
L7102	Carrigabruise N.S.	18857O	Carrakeelty Beg, Virginia, Co. Cavan	Virginia BE	2 No. on L7102	7,000
LP-1521	Scoil Bhride N.S.	16390F	Killeshandra, Co. Cavan	Killeshandra	On both approaches to the school	7,000
LS-5588	Kilmore National School	19322D	Ricehill, Cavan, Co. Cavan	Killykeen	On both approaches to the school	7,000.00
LS 6517	Killyconnan N.S	15120R	Killyconnan	Cuttragh	Northern and Southern approach to school	7,000
L3026	Crosskeys N.S	19432K	Crosskeys, Co. Cavan	Crosskeys	2 No. on L3026,	7,000
L3000/L7005	Crosskeys N.S	19432K	Crosskeys, Co. Cavan	Crosskeys	1 No. on L3000, 1 No. L7005	7,000
R194	St Clares N.S, Ballyjamesduff	19983B	Kilmore, Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan	Ballyjamesduff BB	2 No. on R194 (Virginia — BJD Road)	7,000
L7024/Old N3	Billis N.S.	120990	Billis, Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan	Termon	1 No. on Old N3, 1 No. on L7024	7,000
L3023/L7120	Knocktemple N.S.	17625L	Knocktemple, Virginia, Co. Cavan	Munterconnaught BR	2 No. on L3023, 1 No. on L7120	7,000
R178	Virginia	16083T	Rahardrum, Virginia, Co. Cavan	Virginia BU	1 No. On R178	7,000
L-7575	Ballynamona National School	17531C	Ballynamona, Bailieboro	Bailieboro	On Each Public Road Each Side Of School — €3500 per side	7,000
R-165 L-7618	Model School	05627W	Cavan Road, Bailieboro	Bailieboro	On Each Public Road Each Side Of School — €3500 per side	7,000
L-3535	Laragh National School	14211P	Laragh, Kingscourt	Enniskeen	On Public Road Each Side Of School	7,000
L-3553	St. Anns National School	18059J	Bailieboro	Bailieboro	On Public Road Each Side Of School	7,000
L 5071	Kildallan	15452T	Kildallan, Ballyconnell	Carn	1 no. to the North and 1 no. to the South	7,000
LS-5555-0	Killoughter N.S. (St. Brigids)	17230L	Killoughter, Redhills, Co. Cavan	Redhills	On the road opposite the school to Killoughter Church	3,500
LS-5524-0	Milltown N.S.	08948L	Milltown, Co. Cavan	Milltown	On the third approach road to the school opposite the school entrance	3,500
L 5075	Tullyveela	06998Q	Tullyveela, Corlough	Benbrack	1 No. to the North and 1 No. to the South	7,000.00
					Total	133,000

Local Authority: Clare

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L-3082	Bridgetown	18467 B	Bridgetown O Briensbridge	O Briensbridge	150m either side of school on l-3082	7,000.00
L-3098-0	Killaloe	15370 R	Killaloe,	Killaloe	150m approaching school on L-3098-0	3,500.00
L-2015-0	Kilkee	20078C	Kilkee.	Kilkee	150m either side of school on L-2015-0	7,000.00
L-2022-0	Bansha	11714D	Bansha, Kilkee	Knocknagore	150M approaching school on L-2022-0	3,500.00
L -2154-0	Ballynacally	18639 E	Ballynacally, Ennis	Ballynacally	150m either side of school on L-2154-0	7,000.00
L-6262-0	Coore	10191 P	Coore, Mullagh	Knocknaboley	150m either side of school on L- 6262-0	7,000.00
L-6192-6/ L-61921-0	Clonigulane	13351 D	Clonigulane, Kiilmihil	Glenmore	150m either side of school on L-6132-6 and 150m on approach to school on L-61921-0	10,500.00
L-2082-14	Kilmihil	13826 B	Kilmihil, Ennis	Kilmihil	150m either side of school on L-2082-14	7,000.00
					Total	52,500.00

Local Authority: Cork

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
LS6030	Kilcolman NS	16259H	Maulbrack, Bandon	Boulteen	1 No. on LS 6030 and 1 No. on LP2017	7,000.00
LS6027	Ahiohill NS	10243I	Ahiohill, Enniskeane	Boulteen	2 No. on LS6027	7,000.00
LP2014	Desert Serges NS	16863W	Desert, Enniskeane	Cashel	2 No. on LP 2014	7,000.00
L3409	Gurrane NS	14839P	Gurranegappul, Clondrohid	Clondrohid	East and west of school on road no. L3409	7,000.00
L7434	Scoil Leachtain Naomha	14816D	Cools, Cill na Martra	Cill na Martra	East and west of school on road no. L7434	7,000.00
L3404	Inchigeela NS	12967O	Inchigeela	Inchigeela	North approach from centre of village and South approach from Dunmanway road on L3404	7,000.00
LS7828 LS7829	Scoil Náisiúnta an Pháirc	17794L	Park, Youghal	Ardagh	3 No. sets of lights required on approach roads to the North, South and West	7,000.00
LP3803	St Patrick’s NS, Ballymackibbot Cross	18567F	Inch, Killeagh	Ardagh	2 No. sets of lights required on approach roads to the West and East	7,000.00
L8745-53	Drimoleague National School	18296A	Drimoleague	Drimoleague South	L-8745-53	3,500.00
L8745-53	Drimoleague Junior School	19801P	Drimoleague	Drimoleague South	L-8745-53	3,500.00
L8004-16	Bealad National School	17888U	Bealad, Clonakilty	Argideen	Either side of school	7,000.00
L4019-0	Darraragh National School	13125R	Cruary West	Templeomalus	Either side of school	7,000.00
L4012-0	Rathbarry National School	17715M	Ardfield	Ardfield	Either side of school	7,000.00
L4022-0	Barryroe	19249T	Tirnenean	Butlerstown	Either side of school	7,000.00
L4634	Ballynacarriga National School	16746S	Inchafune, Dunmanway	Ballingurteen	Either side of schoocl	7,000.00
L8554-19	St Mary’s Girls National School	13661S	Dunmanway North	Dunmanway North	Either side of school	7,000.00
L4618-0	St Patrick’s Boys National School	14784Q	Dunmanway North	Dunmanway North	Either side of school	7,000.00
L8551-0	Togher National School	17281F	Togher, Dunmanway	Coolmountain	Either side of school	7,000.00
R5880-0	Coppeen National School	16876I	Coppeen West, Dunmanway	Kinneigh	Either side of school	7,000.00
L42402-0	St Mary’s Primary School, Rosscarbery	14813U	Ardagh West, Rosscarbery	Rosscarbery	Either side of school	7,000.00
L8360	Ardagh Boys School, Rosscarbery	12598J	Ardagh West, Rosscarbery	Rosscarbery	Either side of school	7,000.00
R596-0	Abbeystrewry National School	14433K	Carrigfadda, Skibbereen	Skibbereen Urban	Either side of school	7,000.00

Local Authority: Cork —continued

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L4241-26	Reenascreena National School	19501D	Reenascreena North, Rosscarbery	Cahermore	Either side of school	7,000.00
R582-226	Cloghboola National School	09872J	Millstreet, Co. Cork.	Coomlogane	2 sets on R582-226	7,000.00
L-1130-106	Hollymount National School	17324U	Rathmore P.O., Co. Cork	Caherbarnagh	2 sets on L-1130-106	7,000.00
L-5220-0	Rathduane	09385V	Millstreet, Co. Cork.	Caherbarnagh	2 sets on L-5220-0	7,000.00
L-1102-0	Dernagree National School	19307H	Mallow, Co. Cork.	Skagh	2 sets on L-1102-0	7,000.00
L5826-0	Ballynoe National School	18472R	Ballynoe, Fermoy, Co. Cork.	Ballynoe	100 m North of School and 100m West of School	7,000.00
L1321	Churchtown NS	17527L	Ballyadam, Churchtown	Churchtown	Either approach to school	7,000.00
L1304	Liscarroll NS	12015F	Church Road, Liscarroll	Liscarroll	Either approach to school	7,000.00
R578	Freemount NS	06295F	Knockenaglass	Allow	Either approach to school	7,000.00
L5611-0	Glanworth NS	18196T	Glanworth, Co. Cork.	Glanworth West	87m entry of school on L5611, 153m north, 150m south	7,000.00
R512-52	Kildorrery NS	19526T	Kildorrery, Co. Cork.	Kildorrery	69m North (on existing cranked pole) 110m South	7,000.00
L-1423-18	Araglin NS	17761T	Billeragh West, Araglin, Co. Cork.	Gortnaskehy	110m West, 1202m east of school	7,000.00
L-1409-26	Ballindangan NS	04054T	Ballindangan, Co. Cork.	Derryvillane	120m North, 105m South	7,000.00
L-5654-19	Curraghagalla NS	17790D	Curraghagalla, Co. Cork.	Glanworth East	120m North, 110m South	7,000.00
LP-1020	Lismire NS	17300G	Lismire Village	Barleyhill	2 school approaches	7,000.00
LP-1027	Kanturk Girls NS	178087J	Percival St, Kanturk	Kanturk	2 school approaches	7,000.00
LP-1041	Ballyhass NS	04953H	Ballyhass, Castlemagner	Roskeen	2 school approaches	7,000.00
LP-1045	Kilbrin NS	19342J	Kilbrin Village	Kilbrin	2 school approaches	7,000.00
LP-5076	Tullylease NS	09815U	Tullylease Village	Tullylease	2 school approaches	7,000.00
LP-1007	Meelin NS	17706L	Meelin Village	Barleyhill	2 school approaches	7,000.00
LP-1016	Newmarket Girls NS	17300G	Pound Hill, Newmarket	Newmarket	2 school approaches	7,000.00
L-1235	S.N. Seana Baile More	03704E	Shanballymore, Co. Cork.	Shanballymore	On school approaches	7,000.00
L-5413	Castletownroche N.W.	14107U	Castletownroche, Co. Cork	Castletownroche	On school approaches	7,000.00
					Total	308,000.00

Local Authority: Donegal

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	DED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L-1613-2 (200m from National road)	S N Loch an Iubhair	16829W	Anagaire, Loughanure	Annagry	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1613-2	S N Dhubhthaigh	19343L	Anagaire, Leitir Ceanainn, Annagary	Annagry	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1213-1	Scoil Mhuire B&C	14502D	Dore Beaga, Derrybeg	Magheraclogher	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-5363-1	S N Adhamhnain	17503U	Luinneach, Doiri Beaga, Lunniagh	Magheraclogher	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1103-1	S N Caiseal na gCorr	03294L	Gort A Choirce, Leitirceanainn, Cashelnagor	Dunlewy	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
R257-06	Scoil Bhrighde	17822N	Min A Cladaig, Meenacladdy	Meenaclady	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-9013-1	Scoil Naomh Cholmcille	05164I	Oilean Thorai, An Bhun Bhig, Tory Island	Meenaclady	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1173-1	S N Cnoc na Naomh	16671N	Gort Achoirce, Gortahork, Derryconnor	Gortahork	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-59922	Scoil Cholmcille	18766L	Duiblain Riabic, Carrigart, Devlinreagh	Cranford	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1352-4	Scoil Naomh Cholmcille	18241V	Drumman, Ramelton, Drumman	Ballyarr	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1261-4	Scoil Mhuire	18517N	Dristearnain, Gleneely, Dristearnain	Gleneely Inishowen	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1631-1	S N Naomh Eighneach	18114O	Diseart Eighnigh, Buncrannach, Glebe (Ed Desertegny)	Desertegny	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1391-1	Scoil Naomh Colmchille	16880W	Craigtown, Carndonagh, Cashel (Ed Glentogher)	Glenegannon	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-6211-1	Scoil Naomh Fionan	19959E	Whitecastle, Quigleys Point, Whitecastle	Whitecastle	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
R241-01 /L-1451-1	Scoil Isoep S.N.	17548T	Ballynally, Moville	Moville	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00

Local Authority: Donegal —continued

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	DED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
R241-01	Moville NS Scoil Cholmcille	15763N	Ballynally, Moville Co. Donegal	Moville	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
R241-01 / L1451-1	Scoil Eoghan	20054L	Moville, Co Donegal	Moville	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1512-3	S N Trianta	18319J	Triantagh, Letterkenny,	Templedouglas	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-2944-3	S N an Droim Mor	16349I	Dromore, Crossroads, Killygordan	Gleneely Stranolar	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-3634-3	SN Naomh Samhthann	17040G	Millfarm, Castlefin	Urney west	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1274-1	S N Naomh Colmchille	16995Q	Drumoghill, Letterkenny	Kincragy	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1064-3	Glenmaquin No. 2 NS	09748I	Knockbrack, Glenmaquinn	Kincragy	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1274-1	Ray	14941G	Ray, Labbadish, Manorcunningham	Kincragy	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-2141-2	SN An Leinbh Iosa	17598L	Coxtown, Tonagh, Carrigans	Killea	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-2141-1	Monreagh NS	07143K	Monreagh, Tonagh, Carrigans	Killea	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1575-1	S N Naomh Naille	15770K	Keelogs, Inver	Inver	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-5785-1	Inver NS	16458N	Inver, Ardaghy	Inver	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-5595-1	Killaghtee NS	19089A	Killaghtee, Beaugreen Glebe, Dunkineely	Dunkineely	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1315-2	Killybegs Common NS	16608G	The Commons, Corporation, Killybegs	Killybegs	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
L-1305-1	S N Neill Mor	11843O	Rockmount, Corporation, Killybegs	Killybegs	Erect set of school flashing lights on either side of approaches to school entrance	7,000.00
					Total	210,000.00

Local Authority: Galway County Council

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
R353	Kilbeacanty	17764 C	Kilbeacanty, Gort	Kiltartan	100m each side of school	7,000
R350	Bullaun	18112 K	Bullaun, Loughrea	Bullaun	100m Loughrea side of school	3,500
LP4302	Tiranascragh	18043 R	Tiranascragh, Portumna	Tiranasgragh	100m each side of school	7,000
LP4510	Tierneevin	19377 F	Tierneevin, Gort	Killinny	100m each side of school	7,000
LP4215	Killeenadeema	15071 H	Killeenadeema, Loughrea	Mountain	100m each side of school	7,000
LS8235	Duniry	17506 D	Duniry, Loughrea	Bracklagh	100m each side of school	7,000
LS8745	Raheen	18441G	Killachunnna, Killimor	Kilquain	100m each side of school	7,000
LS8539	Ballyglass	14642T	Ballyglass, Ardrahan	Killogilleen	100m each side of school	7,000
LT45143	Lurga	12574 S	Lurga, Gort	Beagh	100m each side of school	7,000
R355	Laurencetown	17170T	Laurencetown Balinasloe	Laurencetown	Either side of school on R 355	7,000
LT415-54	Eglish	15027E	Eglish Ahascragh	Ahascragh	Either side of L7415-54 approaching the school	7,000
L3416-65	Cappatagle	19506N	Cappatagle Ballinasloe	Killallaghtan	Either side of L3416-65 approaching the school	7,000
L3111/L7144	Newcastle	19449E	Templemoyle Newcastle Athenry	Graigabbey	2 on L3111 &1 on L7152 approach road	7,000
L3115/L7152	Attymon N.S	16121 B	Attimore South Attymon Ballinasloe	Cloonkeen	2 on L3111 &1 on L7152 approach road	7,000
LP2208	Belmont N.S.	20040 A	Belmont, Milltown	Foxhall	Either side of School on L2208	7,000
LP2210	St. Bennins N.S.	18636 V	Kilbannon, Tuam	Belclare	Either side of School on L2210	7,000
LP2220	Kilconly N.S.	15475 I	Kilconly, Tuam	Foxhall	Either side of School on L2220	7,000
LP2105	Sylaun N.S.	06489 S	Sylaun, Tuam	Killeen	Either side of School on L2105	7,000
LS6109	Gardenfield N.S.	17631 G	Ballytrasna, Tuam	Killeen	Either side of School on L6109	7,000
LP3110	Newtown Boys N.S.	18560 O	Chapelfield, Abbeyknockmoy	AbbeyEast	On LP3110 of Junction with N63	3,500
LS6132	Knockroon	14278B	Largan Headford	Donaghpatrick	East side of school on LS 6132	3,500
R358	Mountbellew	18125T	Bovinion Mountbellew	Mountbellew	On both approaches on R358& on LP2310	7,000
LS6302	Cooloo N.S	18309T	Cooloo Brierfield Ballinasloe	Cooloo	approach on LS6302 & both approches on Lp2302	7,000
LS 5200	Soil Eoin Pól 11	20210 W	Inishmore (Árainn) Aran Islands	Inishmore (Árainn)	300m on either side of school	7,000
LT 52003	Scoil Ronáin	17456 O	Inishmore (Árainn) Aran Islands	Inishmore (Árainn)	110m on either side of school	7,000
LS 5261	Inis Meáin NS	12339 I	Inis Meáin (Árainn) Aran Islands	Inishmore (Árainn)	Either side of school on LS 5261	7,000
LS5250	Inis Oírr	17289V	Inis Oírr, Aran Islands	Inishmore (Árainn)	Either side of school on LS 5250	7,000
LS5228	Leitir Móir N.S	13699U	Leitir Móir	Leitir Móir	Either side of school on LS 5228	7,000
LS 5229	Leitir Calaidh N.S	13952G	Leitir Calaidh, Leitir Móir	Leitir Mór	Either side of school on LS5229	7,000
R274	Leitir Mealláin N.S.	15518A	Leitir Mealláin	Gorumna	Either side of school on R274	7,000
LS 5230	Droim, N.S	13528Q	Droim, Leitir Mór	Gorumna	Either side of school on LS 5230	7,000
LT 52331	Trabawn, N.S	14724V	Trabawn, Leitir Mór	Gorumna	Either side of school on LT52331	7,000
LS7251	Killasolan N.S	18113M	Kilasolan Mountbellew	Killian	Both approaches	7,000
					Total	220,500

Local Authority: Kerry

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	DED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L-6044	Slievawaddra NS	03132I	Ballyduff, Tralee, Co. Kerry.	Drommartin	100m either side of National School	7,000.00
L-6083	Bouleenshere NS	18856M	Ballyheigue, Co. Kerry	Ballyheigue	100m either side of National School	7,000.00
L-11703	Cromane NS	12820H	Killorglin, Co. Kerry.	Killorglin	100m either side of National School	7,000.00
L-10435	Dromnacurra NS	18573A	Causeway, Tralee, Co. Kerry	Killury	100m either side of National School	7,000.00
R561	Castlemaine NS	18832V	Castlemaine, Co. Kerry	Kiltallagh	100m either side of National School	7,000.00
					Total	35,000.00

Local Authority: Kilkenny County Council

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
LS 5879	S N Bhrighde, Coan N.S.	17174 E	Coan, Castlecomer	Mothell	LS 5879	7,000
LP 1823	Lisnafuncheon N.S.	16230 G	Lisnafuncheon, Castlecomer	Muckalee	LP 1823	7,000
LS 5859	S N Colmain, Connahy N.S.	17200 C	Connahy, Ballyragget	Kilmacar	LS 5859	7,000
LP 1803	S N Chrion Choill, Gatabaun N.S.	17374 M	Gatabaun, via Thurles	Balleen	LP 1803	7,000
LP 1810	Clontubrid N.S.	16865 D	Clontubrid, Freshford	Lisdowney	LP 1810	7,000
LP 1801	S N Mhichil Naofa, Galmoy N.S.	17222 M	Galmoy, via Thurles	Galmoy	LP 1801	7,000
LP 1800	S N Mhichil Naofa, Crosspatrick N.S.	17758 H	Crosspatrick, via Thurles	Galmay	LP 1800	7,000
LP 1807	Lisdowney N.S.	00788 B	Lisdowney, Ballyragget	Ballyconra	LP 1807	7,000
LP 1841	Muckalee N.S.	17093 E	Muckalee, Ballyfoyle	Clogharinka	LP 1841	7,000
LP 1033	S N Shan Nioclas, Windgap N.S.	1866 OS	Windgap, Co. Kilkenny	Killamery	LP 1033	7,000
R695, LP1009	St. Aidan’s N.S., Kilmanagh N.S.	19344 N	Kilmanagh, Co. Kilkenny	Kilmanagh	(3 LEGS) R 695 & LP 1009	7,000
R701	Kilmaganny N.S.	07481 H	Kilmaganny, Co. Kilkenny	Kilmaganny	R 701	7,000
LS 7491 (Road 675)	Scoil Mhuire N.S., Listerlin	18748 J	Listerlin, Mullinavat, via Waterford	Listerlin	LS.7491 (Road 675) Listerlin to Ballyneale	7,000
LP 1829	Holycross N.S., Firoda	18643 S	Firoda, Castlecomer,	Attanagh	LP 1829	7,000
					Total	98,000

Local Authority: Laois

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L-21121	SN Baile Finn	15537E	Ballyfin Portlaoise	Ballyfin	Either Side of School	7,000
L-2680-0	Tobar an Leinn	16667W	Raheen Mountrath	Raheen	Either Side of School	7,000
L-5676-0	Trumera	15446B	Trumera, Mountrath	Trumera	Either Side of School	7,000
L-1033-0	Camross	15933M	Camross, Mountrath	Marymount	Either Side of School	7,000
L-1531-0	Kiladooley	12692B	Kiladooley, Ballybrophy	Ballybrophy	Either Side of School	7,000
L-15362-0	SN Naomh Colmcille	18780F	Errill Rathdowney	Errill	Either Side of School	7,000
L-7955	Ballyadams	16617H	Ballyadams, Athy	Ballyadams	Either Side of School	7,000
L-38581	Scoil Mhuire	17441B	Wolfhill Athy	Rathaspic	Either Side of School	7,000
L-7795	SN Molaise	17695J	Molaise an Cnoch (Spink)	Blandsfort	Either Side of School	7,000
L-5053-0	Gaelscoil an tSli Dala	20224K	Ballaghmore	Kyle	Either Side of School	7,000
					Total	70,000.00

Local Authority: Leitrim

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	DED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
N16	St Clare N.S	17233R	Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim	Manorhamilton	100/150m each side of the school depending on local site issues	3,500.00
L198	St Michael’s NS	192550	Glenfarne, Co Leitrim	Munakill	100/150m each side of the school depending on local site issues	3,500.00
R202-21	St Killian’s NS	15194A	The Commons, Fenagh Village, Co Leitrim	Mohill	100/150m each side of the school depending on local site issues	7,000.00
					Total	14,000.00

Local Authority: Limerick

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	DED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
R523	Athea NS	15685T	Athea	Glenagower	Athea	7,000.00
R524	Ballyguiltenane NS	11307N	Ballyguiltenane, Glin	Glin	Ballyguiltenane, Glin	7,000.00
L1504	Bulgaden	13790G	Bulgaden, Kimallock	Bulgaden	Bulgaden, Kimallock	7,000.00
R505	Doon Convent NS	14625T	Doon	Doon South	Doon	7,000.00
L7092	Dromtrasna NS	16237U	Dromtrasna, Abbeyfeale	Dromtrasna	Dromtrasna, Abbeyfeale	7,000.00
L5150	Garydoolis NS	10991B	Garydoolis, Pallasgreen	Templebredon	Garydoolis, Pallasgreen	7,000.00
L1517	Glenbrohane	12613C	Glenbrohane, Garryspillane	Glenbrohane	Glenbrohane, Garryspillane	7,000.00
L1324	Tournafulla	07317R	Tournafulla	Glengort	Tournafulla	7,000.00
L1528	Kilbeheny	17298W	Kilbeheny, Mitchelstown	Knocknascrow	Kilbeheny, Mitchelstown	7,000.00
L8561	Kilfinane Convent Primary School	13026P	Kilfinane	Kilfinnane	Kilfinane	7,000.00
L1304	Kilmeedy NS	16764U	Kilmeedy	Kilmeedy	Kilmeedy	7,000.00
L5058	Kilteely NS	14005M	Kilteely	Kilteely	Kilteely	7,000.00
L8563	Martinstown	09915B	Martinstown, Kilmallock	Emlygrennan	Martinstown, Kilmallock	7,000.00
L1529	Knockadea	11809O	Knockadea, Ballylanders	Cullane	Knockadea, Ballylanders	7,000.00
L1308	Feenagh	04469C	Feenagh, Kilmallock	Feenagh	Feenagh, Kilmallock	7,000.00
L1526	Anglesborough	17981K	Anglesborough, Kilmallock	Angelsborough	Anglesborough, Kilmallock	7,000.00
L1318	Raheenagh	18426K	Raheenagh, Ballagh	Ballintober	Raheenagh, Ballagh	7,000.00
L8547	Ballyorgan	17293M	Ballyorgan, Kilfinane	Kilflyn	Ballyorgan, Kilfinane	7,000.00
L8637	Glenroe	17076E	Glenroe, Kilmallock	Darragh	Glenroe, Kilmallock	7,000.00
L1535	Effin	17299B	Effin, Kilmallock	Ballymacshaneboy	Effin, Kilmallock	7,000.00
L5048	Barna	16439J	Barna, Pallasgreen	Templebredon	Barna, Pallasgreen	7,000.00
L5032	Brothers School Doon	16713D	Doon	Doon South	Doon	7,000.00
R515	Ashford	16896O	Ashford, Ballagh	Cleanglass	Ashford, Ballagh	7,000.00
L7043	Mountcollins	17593B	Mountcollins	Mountcollins	Mountcollins	7,000.00
R524	Glin	20102T	Glin	Glin	Glin	7,000.00
L7068	Knocknasna	12368P	Knocknasna, Abbeyfeale	Port	Knocknasna, Abbeyfeale	7,000.00
L8527	Galbally N S	13459A	Galbally, Co Limerick	Galbally	Local Secondary Road	7,000.00
					Total	189,000.00

Local Authority: Longford

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	DED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L1076-0	Mukerstaff NS	13752V	Mukerstaff	Miltown	150m each side of school	7,000.00
R-198-2587	St. Patricks NS	19353O	Drumard	Moyne	150m each side of school	7,000.00
L-1073-0	St. Bernards NS	15122V	Abbylara	Abbylara	50m on town side befor junction / 100m far side	7,000.00
L-1044-0	St Columcilles	19296F	Aughnacliff	Sonnagh	100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-1064-0	Naomh Guasachtan NS	12736S	Bunlahy	Bunlahy	100m each side of school	7,000.00
R-399-317	Curch of Ireland NS	10223C	Taghshinny	Kilglass	100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5123-0	St. Marys School	17644P	Aghnagarron	Creevy	150m each side of school	7,000.00
L-1017-0	Scoil Naomh Padraig	19975C	Ballinamuck	Killoe	between school and junction R198 / 150m back	7,000.00
L-1091.0	St. Johns NS	13313S	Edgeworthstown	Edgeworthstown/ Meathastruim	Wide path on town side / after turn for devine cresent	7,000.00
L-5174-0	Glen NS	12136R	Glen	Ardagh East	100m North / 150 south of school	7,000.00
					Total	70,000.00

Local Authority: Mayo

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	DED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2005 Cost Max €7,000
LT 21073	Killala	16811D	Killala Co. Mayo	Killala	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LT 11164	Banagher	18175L	Carrowmore Lacken Ballina	Lacken South	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LS 5157	Kinard	14400S	Kinard Crossmolina	Deel	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP 110	Mount Palmer	20217N	Kilfian Ballina	Killala	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LT 11063	Killa Corraun	14865Q	Castlehill Ballina	Deel	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L 1608	Lehinch	05120L	Hollymount	Coonard	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L 1606	Roobeen	19394L	Roobeen	Newbrook	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L 5636	Burriscarra	05756K	Clogher, Claremorris	Burriscarra	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L 5643	Gortskehy	18880J	Hollymount	Garrymore	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L 1602	Srah	15073L	Tourmakedy	Portroyal	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L 5630	Killateeun	12626L	Tourmakedy	Ballinchalla	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP 503	Loughanamon	19972T	Claremorris	Ballyhowley	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP 512	Loughboy	15539I	Ballyhaunis	Culnacleha	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP 917	Coogue	16952V	Ballyhaunis	Bekan	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP 507	Taugheen	17301I	Claremorris	Taugheen	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LT 55481	Knock	16122D	Knock	Knock South	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP 913	Aghamore	15030Q	Ballyhaunis	Aghamore	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R335-344	Lecanvey	13797O	Westport	Kilsallagh	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L1828-29	Louisburgh N.S	20037L	Louisburgh	Louisburgh	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R335-276	Louisburgh S.S	64660F	Louisburgh	Louisburgh	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
5893 — 0	Kileen N.S	19324H	Louisburgh	Aillemore	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
1824 — 0	Drummin	17037V	Westport	Drummin	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-1201	Aghalasheen	18594I	Belmullet	Belmullet	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5230	Aughleam	12373I	Belmullet	An Geata Mor Theas	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-12068	Bangor Erris	13684H	Bangor Erris	Bangor	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R313	Barnatra	14188A	Ballina	Muings	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-52952	Belderrig	11582M	Ballina	Beldergmore	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-52958	Belmullet	17727T	Belmullet	Belmullet	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5233	Binghamstown	14258S	Belmullet	An Geata Mor Thuaidh	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5247	Carrowteige	15032U	Ballina	Knockadaff	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00

Local Authority: Mayo —continued

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	DED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2005 Cost Max €7,000
L-5238	Corclough	15014S	Belmullet	An Geata Mor Thuaidh	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5287	Doohooma	14193Q	Doohooma	Rathhill	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5255	Drumslide	17532E	Ballycroy	Ballycroy North	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5259	Geesala	19776T	Geesala	Rathhill	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R314	Glenamoy	13882L	Glenamoy	Barrooskey	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-1202	Inver	12568A	Pullathomas	Knocknalower	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-1202	Pullathomas	16283E	Pullathomas	Knocknalower	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5245	Rossport	12569C	Ballina	Muingnabo	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5251	Shraigh	13303Q	Belmullet	Glencastle	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5451	Bullsmouth	14866S	Achill	Achill	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R-319	Tonragee	16113C	Achill	Corraun	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-1406	Dookinella	14873P	Achill	Slievemore	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-1404	Currane	16295L	Achill	Corraun	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R319	Dooagh	18082E	Achill	Slievemore	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-54437	Saula	16052I	Achill	Achill	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R319	Achill Sound	14863M	Achill	Achill	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-1406	Valley	16379R	Achill	Achill	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R319	Bunnacurry	18754E	Achill	Achill	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L-5441	Drumgullagh,	18002D	Ballycroy	Ballycroy South	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
					Total	343,000.00

Local Authority: Mayo

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
LS5752	Errew NS	18503C	Errew, Castlebar	Ballyheane	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP1718	Crimlin NS	15967G	Crimlin, Ross Castlebar	Pontoon	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LS5704	Lahardaun NS	16911H	Lahardaun, Co Mayo	Addergoole	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP1717	Parke NS	18562S	Parke, Ballavary	Ballyavary	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
N60 & LP1706	Manulla NS	17678J	Manulla Castlebar	Manulla	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP1702 & LP1605	Clogher NS	17482P	Clogher, Ballintubber	Clogher	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP1809	Scoil Naomh Phadraig	14064F	Kilawalla, Co Mayo	Kilavally	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LS5789	St Peter and Paul NS	18848N	Straide, Foxford	Straide	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP1721	Rathbane NS	15996N	Bofeenaun, Lahardaun	Ballynagoraher	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LS5155	Rathkell NS	15705W	Castlehill, Ballina	Addergoole	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LS5422	St Joseph’s NS	18818E	Leitir, Islandeady, Co Mayo	Islandeady	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP505	Mayo Abbey	14205U	Claremorris	Mayo	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LS5543	Facefield	13773G	Claremorris	Kilcolman	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP514	St Colman’s	64610N	Claremorris	Claremorris	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
N60	Ballyhaunis Jr	20142I	Ballyhaunis	Ballyhaunis	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP1316/LS5356	Shraheen NS	12808R	Shraheen, Foxford	Shraheen	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
LP1317	Lisiniska NS	16021U	Lisiniska, Foxford, Co Mayo	Mount Falcon	Approx 50m each side of school	7,000.00
LT53571	Currabaggan NS	12206M	Currabaggan, Knockmore	Mount Falcon	Approx 50m each side of school	7,000.00
LP121	Garracloon NS	06852L	Cloghans, Ballina	Carrowmore	Approx 50m each side of school	7,000.00
LP318	Cloghans NS	16170O	Cloghans Ballina	Mount Falcon	Approx 50m each side of school	7,000.00
LS157	Richmond NS (Cill)	14400S	Crossmolina	Crossmolina Sth	Approx 50m each side of school	7,000.00
LS149	Ardagh NS	16562I	Knockanillaun, Ballina	Fortland	Approx 50m each side of school	7,000.00
LP105	Crossmolina NS	20125I	Chapel St Crossmolina	Crossmolina Sth	Approx 50m each side of school	7,000.00
LT51604	Glenmore NS	14195U	Crossmolina	Crossmolina Sth	Approx 50m each side of school	7,000.00
LS144	Newtownwhite NS	09040K	Ballysakeery, Ballina	Ballysakeery	Approx 50m each side of school	7,000.00
L5659	Neal	12350T	Neal	Neal	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L5662	Gortjordan	14534Q	Gortjordan	Houndswood	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L5666	Kilroe	17615L	Kilroe	Shrule	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L56503	Cloonliffen	18922W	Cloonfillen	Ballinrobe	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00

Local Authority: Mayo —continued

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L5649	Roxborough	12816Q	Roxborough	Ballinrobe	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L1607	Mount Pleasant	13500R	Ballyglass	Roslee	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L1609	Roundfort	17082W	Roundfort	Hollymount	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R332	Cloghans Hill	17922R	Cloghans Hill	Kilcommon	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L1616	Ballycushin NS	18876S	Ballycushin	Dalgan	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L1822	Brackloon NS	04796R	Brackloon, Westport	Knappagh	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
R335	Murrisk NS	16832L	Murrisk, Westport	Croagh Patrick	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L1401	Fahy NS	13555T	Fahey, Newport	Kilmcaclasser	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
L5427	Moyna NS	16618J	Moyna Kilmeena	Kilmeena	Approx 100m each side of school	7,000.00
					Total	266,000.00

Local Authority: Meath

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L28042	Scoil Nais N Naine	17946I	Maio Tierworker, Kells	Trohanny	2 lights required	7,000.00
R 163-198	Ballinlough NS	16143L	Ballinlough, Kells	Ballinlough	2 lights required	7,000.00
L 6834 -12	Kilskyre mixed NS	01421F	Kilskyre, Kell	Kilskeer	2 lights required	7,000.00
L68195	Scoil Mhuire	1119780	Moylagh, Oldcastle	Moylagh	3 lights required	7,000.00
					Total	28,000.00

Local Authority: Monaghan

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
LS08111/LP04111	Aghanfarcon NS	18023L	Aghnafarcon, Castleblaney, Monaghan	Broomfield	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP03500	Annyalla NS	16842O	Annyalla, Castleblaney, Monaghan	Annayalla	100m either side of school	7,000.00
R183	Ballybay Central	19884W	Ballybay, Monaghan	Ballybay Rural	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP05251	Billis NS	10718G	Glaslough, Monaghan	Glaslough	100m either side of school	7,000.00
N2	Clontibret NS	10751E	Clontibret, Monaghan	Clontibret	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LT22414	Comhghall S.N.	17776J	Connons, Clones, monaghan	Drumully	100m either side of school	7,000.00
R188	Corcaghan NS	16129R	Corcaghan, Monaghan	Kilmore	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP01131	Deravoy NS	00373P	Emyvale, Monaghan	Anketell Grove	100m either side of school	7,000.00
R183	Doohamlet NS	06117E	Doohamlet, Castleblaney, Monaghan	Cremartin	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP01153	Edenmore NS	16022W	Emyvale, Monaghan	Anketell Grove	100m either side of school	7,000.00
R183	Fortview NS	15300T	Carn, Clones Monaghan	Clones Rural	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP02130	Gaelscoil Eois	20055N	Eanach Cille, An Chuil Darach, Clones	Clones Rural	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP04630	Inis Chaoin Deagha	19251G	Inniskeen, Dundalk ,Louth	Inniskeen	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LS06290	Killeevan NS	19364T	Newbliss, Monaghan	Kileevan	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP01133	Knocknagrave NS	18579M	Tydavnet, Monaghan	Killylough	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LT24111	Latnamard NS	16769H	Smithboro, Monaghan	Drumhillagh	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP04102	Lisdoonan NS	15143G	Lisdoonan, Carrickmacross, Monaghan	Bocks	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP02110	Scoil Chroi Ro Naofa	20120V	Roslea Road, Clones, Monaghan	Clones Rural	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP04602	Scoil Colmcille	18820O	Blackstaff, Carrickmacross, Monaghan	Kiltybegs	100m either side of school	7,000.00
R183	Scoil Eanna	20174V	Ballybay, Monaghan	Ballybay Rural	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP21805	Scoil Mhuire	19162H	Kilnaclay, Threemilehouse,Monaghan	Kilmore	100m either side of school	7,000.00
N54/LP02150	Scoil Mhuire	09186P	Magherarney, Smithboro, Monaghan	St Tierney	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LT54512	Scoil Mhuire	18539A	Moys, Clontibret, Monaghan	Castleshane	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LP04510	Scoil Micheál	15142E	Tullymackilmartin, Donaghmoyne, Monaghan	Crossalare	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LS05501	Scoil Micheál	16954C	Rackwallace, Monaghan	Rackwallace	100m either side of school	7,000.00
R182	Scoil Pádraig	18234B	Oram, Castleblaney, Monaghan	Churchill	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LT11131	Scoil Pádraig	19362P	Clara, Emyvale, Monaghan	Derrygorry	100m either side of school	7,000.00
LS08170	Scoil Pádraig Naofa	17735S	Broomfield, Castleblaney, Monaghan	Kilmurray	100m either side of school	7,000.00
R186	St Dympna’s NS	19738L	Tydavnet, Monaghan	Tydavnet	100m either side of school	7,000.00
					Total	203,000.00

Local Authority: Offaly

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L-40061-1	Coolderry Central NS	19638H	Brosna, Birr	Ettagh	Both approaches to school	7,000.00
L-04026-2	Roscomroe NS	18537T	Roscomroe, Killavilla	Roscomroe	Both approaches to school	7,000.00
L-04013-3	SN Mhuire	17336E	Bainroghin, Dunkerrin	Dunkerrin	Both approaches to school	7,000.00
L-01022-2/ L-01022-3	St Colman NS	19354Q	Cappagh, Croghan	Kilclonfert	Both approaches to school	7,000.00
L-01010-1	Scoil Bride, Croghan NS	18690E	Croghan, Daingean	Croghan	Both approaches to school	7,000.00
					Total	35,000.00

Local Authority: Roscommon County Council

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L-1637-0	Enfield N.S.	14197B	Enfield, Castleplunkett, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon	Castleteehan	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-1635-0	Ballintubber N.S.	16334S	Ballintubber, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon	Ballintubber	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-1629-0	Lisaniskey N.S.	14356S	Ballydooley P.O. Oran, Dunamon,Co. Roscommon.	Dunamon	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-562-0	Scoil Michael Naofa	19789F	Castlerea, Co. Roscommon	Castlereagh	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-1603-0	Ballinlough N.S.	11943S	Ballinlough, Co. Roscommon	Ballinlough	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-2041	St. Ciarns N.S.	19368E	Rooty Cross, Oldtown, Athlone, Co. Roscommon.	Ballydangan	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-20352	Clonown N.S.	16427C	Clonown, Athlone, Co. Roscommon	Cloonown	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-2023	Brideswell N.S.	15413J	Brideswell, Athlone, Co. Roscommon	Ballynamona	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-2018	Carrick N.S.	13839K	Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon	Rockhill	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-2038	Camcloon N.S.	15980V	Ballydangan, Athlone, Co. Roscommon	Moore	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-2007	Scoil Naomh Eoin	18272J	Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon	Lecarrow	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-2013	Lismoyle N.S.	11466K	Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon	Ballynamona	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-2015	Ballintleva N.S.	18729F	Curraghboy, Athlone, Co. Roscommon	Kilcar	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
L-7550	Glanduff N.S	18626S	Glanduff, Kiltoom Athlone	Carnagh	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
R294	Scoil Na Paroisteach	17329H	Military Road, Boyle, Co. Roscommon	Boyle Urban	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
R293	Ballyforan N.S	018664U	Ballyforan, Co Roscommon	Taghboy	50 to 300m each side of school	7,000
					Total	112,000

Local Authority: Sligo

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L14014-0	Coolbock NS	16781U	Coolbock, Riverstown	Lisconny	On both approaches to school	7,000.00
					Total	7,000.00

Local Authority: Tipperary South

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L-3501-4	Newcastle NS	18538V	Newcastle, Clonmel	Newcastle	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
L-3301-3	Burncourt NS	17783G	Burncourt, Cahir	Burncourt	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
L-3303-0	Ballylooby	18582B	Ballylooby, Cahir	Kilcoran	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
LS5108	Cappawhite NS	14791N	Cappawhite	Cappagh	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entance	7,000.00
R505	Annacarty NS	18528F	Annacarty	Donohill	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entance	7,000.00
LP1209	Ballagh NS	17621D	Ballagh	Clonoulty West	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entance	7,000.00
LP1202	Rossmore NS	17620B	Rossmore	Clonoulty West	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entance	7,000.00
L2113-0	Ballysloe NS	17140K	Ballysloe, Gortnahoe, Thurles	Boulick	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
L2111-3	St Marys NS Lisnamrock	11453B	Coalbrook, Thurles	Ballyphilip	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
L3107-1	Slieveardagh NS	11470B	The Commons, Thurles	Farranrory	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
R-515	Shronell NS	15008A	Lattin, Co.Tipperary	Shronell	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
L-4107	Mount Bruis NS	15157R	Mt. Bruis, Tipperary	Mt. Bruis	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
L-4202	Ayle NS	1799V	Cappawhite, Co.Tipperary	Cappagh	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
l-4107	Kilross	19421F	Kilross, Co Tipperary	Lattin	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
R-663	Lisvernane N.S.	19230V	Lisvernane, Galbally, Co Tipperary	Clonbeg	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
L-4103	Cullen N.S.	09245S	Cullen, Co Tipperary	Cullen	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
R -515	Emly N.S.	16059W	Emly, Co Tipperary	Emly	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
L-4212	Newtown N.S.	08316U	Donohill, Co Tipperary	Donohill	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
L-4206	Garryshane N.S.	18512D	Donohill, Co Tipperary	Donohill	Between 50 & 150 m either side of School entrance	7,000.00
					Total	133,000.00

Local Authority: Tipperary North

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L5036	St Joseph’s NS	18443K	Aglish, Borrisokane	Uskane	Either side of school	7,000.00
L5046	St Flannan’s NS	17512V	Rathcabbin, Roscrea	Graigue/ Rathcabbin	Either side of school	7,000.00
R490	Cloughjordan NS	17543J	Cloughjordan	Cloughjordan	Either side of school	7,000.00
R490	Cloughjordan No. 1. NS	19422H	Templemore Road, Cloughjordan	Cloughjordan	Either side of school	7,000.00
L4143	Templederry NS	18557C	Templederry, Nenagh	Templederry	Either side of school	7,000.00
L4142	St Bridget’s NS	17679L	Fantane, Borrisoleigh	Glenkeen	Either side of school	7,000.00
L7037	Castleiney NS	17653Q	Loughmore, Templemore	Templetuohy	Either side of school	7,000.00
L3219	Killea NS	14460N	Killea Village, Templemore	Killea	Either side of school	7,000.00
L3203	Scoil Naisiunta na Maighne	17681V	Moyne, Thurles	Moyne	Either side of school	7,000.00
L-3232-19	St Mary’s NS	19640R	Lismackin, Roscrea	Bourney East/ West	Either side of school	7,000.00
L-95023-5	Templetuohy NS	16250M	Templetuohy, Thurles	Templetuohy	Either side of school	7,000.00
L-5051	Redwood NS	17244W	Redwood, Lorrha	Redwood	Either side of school	7,000.00
L-1082	St Lua NS	17608L	Lorrha, Nenagh	Lorrha East	Either side of school	7,000.00
L-3242	St Joseph’s NS	17498H	Toomevara, Nenagh	Ballymackey/ Latteragh (Part of)	Either side of school	7,000.00
					Total	98,000.00

Local Authority: Waterford County Council

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
L6057	Aglish N.S.	01395H	Ballynaparka, Aglish	Kereen	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L6081	Ballycurrane N.S.	07441S	Aughnacurraveel, Clashmore	Grallagh	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L2011	Clashmore N.S.	02889O	Clashmore, Youghal	Clashmore	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L2007	Kinsalebeg N.S.	18318H	Piltown, Kinsalebeg	Kinsalebeg	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L6095	St Mary’s N.S.	17997C	Ballybrusna, Grange	Grange	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L3005	Coolnasmear N.S.	18488J	Coolnasmear Lr, Dungarvan	Bohadoon	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L1035	St Mary’s N.S.	18779U	Tooraneena, Ballinamult	Seskinan	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L10071	Ballyduff N.S.	15540Q	Ballyduff	Castlerichard	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L2015	Villierstown N.S.	07737Q	Ballingown West, Cappoquin	Dromana	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L2019	Whitechurch N.S.	18108T	Ballynameelagh, Cappagh	Whitechurch	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
L1100	Lismore Mochuda	14164J	Church Lane, Lismore	Lismore Urban	100m each side of approaches to school	7,000
					Total	77,000

Local Authority: Westmeath

Road No./Name	Name of School	Roll No.	Address of School	ED	Location of Flashing Amber Safety Lights	2006 Cost Max €7,000
R390	Ballymore NS	17991N	Ballymore	Ballymore	Road edge either side of school entrance	7,000.00
L1102	Kilbeggan NS	20063M	Kilbeggan	Kilbeggan	Road edge either side of school	7,000.00
L5104	Rahugh NS	17882I	Rahugh, Kilbeggan	Rahugh	Road edge either side of school	7,000.00
L5322	Kilcumeragh NS	16961W	Rosemount, Moate	Kilcumreragh	Road edge either side of school	7,000.00
L5364	Drumraney NS	13571R	Drumraney, Athlone	Drumraney	Road edge either side of school entrance	7,000.00
L5821	St Cremins NS	19350 I	Rathganny, Multyfarnham	Multyfarnham	Road edge either side of school entrance	7,000.00
LT18266	St Marys NS	3936C	Coole	Coole	Road edge either side of school entrance	7,000.00
					Total	49,000.00

Departmental Funding.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

231 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if grant aid support is currently available for scouting organisations; if not, his views on developing a scheme to support the level of community activity that they do on a voluntary basis throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13337/07]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

As the Deputy will be aware, my Department provides funding for a wide range of community projects, through a number of schemes and programmes. Each of the schemes and grant programmes operated by my Department are governed by rules and eligibility criteria, which projects have to meet in order to qualify for funding.

With regard to the specific project referred to by the Deputy, elements of such a project may be eligible for funding under my Department's Programme of Grants for Locally Based Community and Voluntary Organisations, or the Local Development Social Inclusion Programme. Detailed information in respect of these programmes can be found on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie.

Rural Development.

John Perry

Question:

232 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if there is financial aid available through his Department for auxiliary development on an estate which has been developed and where the original house has been retained; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13400/07]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Éamon Ó Cuív)

I understand that the project the Deputy refers to relates to the development of facilities on an estate where the original house on the estate has been retained and restored.

My Department has no funding available at present for such a project, however there may be funding available for rural tourism projects under the draft Rural Development Programme 2007-13, which is at present under discussion with the European Commission. Full details of the funding opportunities under the Programme will be made available when the draft Programme is finalised.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

233 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which her Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13153/07]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The following table shows the number of appointments made to State bodies under the aegis of my Department during the years specified.

Year	Male	Female
2002	21	6
2003	23	3
2004	10	3
2005	5	1
2006	38	8
2007	3	1

The Deputy should be aware that I do not have total discretion in relation to such appointments. Some appointments are required to be made on the basis of nominations from farming and other relevant organisations and others by way of election by the body concerned.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

234 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of her Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by her between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13199/07]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

In the period specified, I would expect to make two appointments to the Board of Teagasc and two to the Board of Coillte. There is one vacancy on the Board of the National Milk Agency in respect of which I am awaiting a nomination from the relevant industry interest. There is also a vacancy of chairperson of my Department's Consumer Liaison Panel.

Grant Payments.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

235 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if additional entitlements from the national reserve will be approved for a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13341/07]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mary Coughlan)

The person named submitted an application for an allocation of entitlements from the 2005 Single Payments Scheme National Reserve under Categories A and D. Category A caters for farmers who inherited land or received land free of charge or for a nominal sum from a farmer who had retired or died prior to the 16 May, 2005 and who had leased out his/her holding to a third party during the reference period 2000 to 2002.

Category D caters for farmers who inherited or purchased land and who commenced farming after 31 December 2002 or who commenced farming in 2002 but who received no direct payments in respect of that scheme year.

The person named has been deemed successful under both categories. However, it should be noted that the rules governing the Single Payment Scheme stipulate that an applicant who is found to be eligible under more than one category may only receive an allocation of entitlements under whichever category is most beneficial to him.

In this instance Category D is more financially beneficial and an allocation has been made to the person named. A formal letter outlining my Department's decision has also issued to him.

Educational Disadvantage.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

236 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review her Department’s decision not to make additional funding available for special educational enterprises (details supplied) which address the socio economic reasons which prevent children from participating in main stream education in a manner that ensures that they do not fall further away from the central norms of society and become a risk to themselves, their families and their community either by drug abuse or other forms of criminality; if she will in particular look at the meagre funding currently available to the project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13280/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Funding was allocated to the Life Centre, Pearse Square in December 2006 through the Fund for the Development of Targeted Educational Responses to Certain Children at Risk (CAR Fund) to provide a programme for young people between the ages of 12 and 16 who are out of the mainstream school system.

The objective of the Fund is to develop preventative and supportive programmes, which are targeted at children and young people who are at risk of educational disadvantage and social exclusion. A key focus of the initiative is the empowerment of local communities to develop innovative and flexible programmes that address identified needs of intended participants.

The Life Centre is also being supported by my Department through an annual allocation of VEC teaching hours. A review of allocations to VECs under the Co-Operation Hours with Other Institutions is currently being undertaken by my Department and the needs of the Life Centre will be considered in the context of this review.

Enhancing attendance, progression, retention and attainment are central to DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) the action plan for educational inclusion, which is being implemented at present in 873 schools comprising 670 primary schools (338 urban/town schools and 332 rural schools) and 203 second-level schools. A key objective of this action plan is to enhance integration and partnership working, both within the education sector itself and between all other relevant Government departments, agencies, organisations and groups. Under DEIS, my Department, through the network of ten regional offices is enhancing its capacity to work in partnership with locally based agencies and individuals promoting social inclusion measures.

Measures under DEIS range from pre-school interventions, supports for tackling children's literacy problems, reduced pupil teacher ratios, increased capitation grants, measures to tackle early school leaving and strengthen ties between the school, the family and the community.

A key component of my Department's strategy to discriminate positively in favour of children and young people who are at risk of early school leaving is the School Completion Programme. This programme was implemented to directly target those in danger of dropping out of the education system and in line with current thinking favours an integrated cross-community and cross-sectoral approach based on the development of local strategies to ensure maximum participation levels in the education process. It entails targeting individual young people aged 4-18, both in and out of school, and arranging supports to address inequalities in education access, participation and outcomes. The programme is funded on a multi-annual basis under the National Development Plan (NDP) with assistance from the European Social Fund (ESF).

Increased access will be provided to the inner city second level and urban/town primary schools in the School Support Programme to provide a range of academic and non-academic supports based in-school, after school, out-of-school and during holiday time, based on best practices identified through the School Completion Programme (SCP).

School Staffing.

Tom Hayes

Question:

237 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if a decision has been made on staffing numbers for 2007 and 2008 for a school (details supplied) in a disadvantaged area of County Tipperary; and if she will ensure that there will be no reduction to the staffing levels at the school. [13148/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

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 85 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. The school is also the base school for 1 Schools Support Programme Rural Co-Ordinator which is shared with 4 other schools.

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 73 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 2 mainstream class teachers. The school will also be the base school for 1 Schools Support Programme Rural Co-Ordinator which is shared with 4 other schools.

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 in 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.

Schools Building Projects.

Martin Ferris

Question:

238 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application by a school (details supplied) in County Kerry to build a new school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13151/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The need for a replacement school on a greenfield site for Blennerville National School has been determined by the Department. A suitable site has been acquired for that purpose. The building project required to deliver the new school will be progressed in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

239 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which her Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13158/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The information sought by the Deputy is being compiled by officials in my Department and will be forwarded to her as soon as possible.

Decentralisation Programme.

John Gormley

Question:

240 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding decentralisation of the Higher Education and Training Awards Council; the plans in place regarding decentralisation of this council; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13168/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Higher Education & Training Awards Council (HETAC) is to decentralise to Edenderry. The overall number of posts involved is in the region of 32. HETAC has produced an implementation report for the Decentralisation Implementation Group (DIG) and recruitment takes place on the basis that the body will decentralise.

I understand that OPW has acquired a site for the proposed decentralisation to Edenderry which includes HETAC.

HETAC is a public service body rather than a civil body service body. Most of the staff employed in such bodies are not civil servants. In their most recent report to the Minister for Finance the Decentralisation Implementation Group (DIG) outline the issues facing bodies in making arrangements for the deployment in Dublin for those members of staff who do not wish to decentralise. The DIG states in its report that it is of the view that resolution of this issue "is central to the overall implementation process in the State Agencies". The DIG also states in the report that it has requested the Department of Finance to pursue directly with ICTU proposals for getting central discussions underway on the full range of industrial relations issues relating to the decentralisation of State agencies.

Psychological Service.

Seán Crowe

Question:

241 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount it would cost her Department to provide 30 hours applied behavioural analysis for a child in a school (details supplied) for one year. [13169/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Deputy will be aware of my commitment to ensuring that all children, icluding those with autism, receive an education appropriate to their needs, preferably through the primary and post primary school network.

My Department's preferred approach to the provision of appropriate education for children with autism, is through the primary and post primary school network, whether through placement in mainstream classes, in special classes or in special schools, a view that is supported by the findings of the Task Force Report on Autism. My Department supports a multi-skills approach in regard to the education of children with autism where a range of teaching methods are available e.g. Treatment and Education of Autistic and Related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH), ABA (Applied Behavioural Analysis), Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS).

In this regard my Department has established:

186 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;

14 Stand alone facilities providing an Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) specific methodologies on a pilot basis — 2 of these facilities have yet to be established.

Estimated costs associated with the provision of applied behavioural analysis would be subject to the particular circumstances involved. However, the critical determinant of the preferred approach outlined above is its capacity to meet the needs of all the children attending the school rather than cost.

Legal Costs.

Seán Crowe

Question:

242 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount her Department spent on legal costs in relation to the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow whose parents took a case to court to attempt to secure the recommended level of applied behavioural analysis for their son. [13170/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Deputy should be advised that the full judgment in the matter referred to has not actually been delivered yet. Mr. Justice Peart has already indicated what will be contained in part of his judgement and that he intends to deliver a full written judgment on the 27th April 2007.

In circumstances where the full judgment is not yet delivered it would be inappropriate for me to comment on any details of the case, including costs, at this time.

Schools Building Projects.

Tom Hayes

Question:

243 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if physical education hall facilities will be approved for a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [13198/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I can confirm that the Department is in receipt of an application for major capital funding from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers.

The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale works and was assigned a band 2 rating. Progress on the project is being considered in the context of the multi annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Appointments to State Boards.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

244 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of her Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by her between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13204/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The information requested by the Deputy is given in the following table. In appointing persons to State boards, State bodies or other like entities I will follow the guidelines set out in the Cabinet Handbook regarding eligibility, transparency and gender balance.

DES Appointments to State Boards 29 March 2007 to 4 July 2007

Board	No. of Appointments	Notes
National council for Curriculum and Assessment	1	Appointed on nomination of Chief Inspector
Further Education and Training Awards Council	1
Board of the Advisory Council on English Language Schools	1	Appointed on nomination of Dublin Tourism
Residential Institutions Redress Board	1
Board of Léargas	3
National Educational Welfare Board	1	Delegated appointments by Minister of State for Children

School Closures.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

245 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the fact that the sports hall of a school (details supplied) which is a major amenity for other local schools and community organisations will become the property of her Department at the end of the 2006/2007 academic year, she will give a guarantee that the hall will remain available for community use for 10 years as this guarantee is a required condition for the drawing down of a National Lottery grant of €160,000 which has been already allocated for the further improvement of this facility. [13214/07]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

246 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the issues that were discussed at the three meetings between her Department and the trustees of a school (details supplied) before the trustees decided to close the school; and the reason no meetings were held with the board of management or the parents’ association of the school. [13215/07]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

247 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if any sum of money has been refunded to the trustees of a school (details supplied) or any commitment made to refund money. [13216/07]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

248 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will meet the parents’ association of a school (details supplied) to discuss outstanding issues in relation to the closure of the school, the transfer of students to other schools, and the future of the site as an educational and community facility. [13217/07]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

250 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding the archives including staff and student records of a school (details supplied) when it closes. [13219/07]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

251 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding the computers and data stored on them at a school (details supplied) when it closes. [13220/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 245 to 248, inclusive, 250 and 251 together.

A decision was taken by the Trustees of the school to which the Deputy refers that it will close in June 2007. This decision was taken because, in line with demographic changes in the area, the school has experienced a steady decline in enrolments in recent years.

Current enrolments in feeder primary schools indicate that this decline will continue. In fact, a general decline in enrolments in the area where the school is located has resulted in considerable spare capacity at post primary level. Coupled with the decline in enrolments, the Department was also concerned about the ability of the school in question to offer a broad and balanced curriculum given the relatively small number of pupils enrolled.

In all of the circumstances, at its meetings with the Trustees, the Department concurred with the Trustees decision to close the school. In line with the correct protocol, it is a matter for the Trustees to follow through the relevant issues with its Board of Management and parent body.

When it closes, ownership of the school property, which is currently vested in the trustees, will revert to the Department. In the period leading up to the closure, the Department will consider all available options with regard to its future use, including the sports hall.

Given the extent of spare capacity at post primary level in the general area, the Department does not envisage any difficulty in the residue of pupils securing alternative places. Normally a closing school assists its pupils to secure places in the event of any difficulty arising.

In relation to the responsibility for records management and data protection within a school, this lies with the Board of Management of the school in accordance with legislation governing the National Archives and Data Protection. School records including registers, roll books, daily report books are not Departmental records and as such are the sole responsibility of the Board of Management of the school. Records which need to be kept may be sent by the school to the National Archives. As schools keep records of personal data for pupils and staff, they must comply with the Data Protection Legislation. An advisory notice was sent to schools by the Department in 2003 reminding them of their obligations under the Data Protection Acts, 1988 and 2003 and advising that a written data protection policy be put in place. "A Guide for Data Controllers", issued by the Data Protection Commissioner which sets out the requirements for data controllers, was sent to schools with this advisory notice. Records of staff employed by the school that are paid by the Department are held in the Department for a period not exceeding 80 years. This is to facilitate the calculation of salary for pension purposes.

With regard to the computers themselves, if these were supplied by the Department, then they remain Department property to be used as the Department determines. If they were supplied by local fundraising then the Board of Management can determine what to do with them.

In relation to a refund of monies to the Trustees, it is unclear what type of payments the Deputy might have in mind, however, I can confirm the question has not arisen in the Department.

School Staffing.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Question:

249 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the staff of a school (details supplied) have no idea of what they are to do when the school closes in a number of weeks in view of the fact that the decision to close the school was made three years ago; and her views on whether this is an acceptable way to treat staff who have given decades of service to a school. [13218/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

In accordance with the terms of Towards 2016, my Department is actively engaged with the education partners to agree new arrangements in relation to the redeployment of teachers. The new arrangements will provide for redeployment of all teachers within an agreed distance on terms to be agreed. When the Department sought to include this matter in Towards 2016 it was particularly mindful of the situation of teacher's in schools like the one in question where no redeployment scheme existed. Under Towards 2016 it has been agreed with the teacher unions that the operation of the revised arrangements will ensure that all teachers who are surplus because of school closure as in the case of the school referred to by the Deputy are redeployed to meet the subject/course requirements of other schools. The timeline set in the agreement for conclusion of the discussions was deliberately aimed at ensuring that a new redeployment scheme would be in place this year. Intensive discussions are continuing with the teacher unions to that end. In addition to this, as an exceptional matter in the current year, staff in the school referred to by the Deputy have been given the option to apply for early retirement and a number of teachers have made such an application. These applications are currently being considered in my Department.

Questions Nos. 250 and 251 answered with Question No. 245.

School Transport.

Billy Timmins

Question:

252 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of buses used in the school bus fleet; the number of these that are publicly owned; if the drivers of the publicly owned buses are employed full time; if so, their terms of employment; if these buses are under utilised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13223/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science (Mr. Haughey)

In the region of 3,600 vehicles are used to transport children to primary and post-primary schools each day under the school transport scheme. About 700 of these vehicles are used by Bus Éireann. To ensure that school buses are utilised as fully as possible Bus Éireann design the network so that the majority of school buses are coordinated to operate more than one bus trip, each morning and afternoon, providing separate primary and post primary school bus services. Bus Éireann school bus drivers are paid an hourly rate for the actual hours worked, which varies from driver to driver.

Educational Disadvantage.

David Stanton

Question:

253 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the criteria which must be met for home school community liaison officers in primary schools; the number of such appointments at present; the number of applications for same awaiting decision; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13234/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

Under DEIS, (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), the new Action Plan for Educational Inclusion, which is currently being implemented by my Department, 80 additional posts have been allocated in order to extend Home School Community Liaison services to all 338 urban/town primary and 203 second level schools participating in DEIS that do not currently have a HSCL service, in addition to the 370 local coordinators already in place. To facilitate local HSCL co-ordinators working with the families of disadvantaged children, for the first time posts are being shared across the two sectors — primary and post-primary level. I have also given a commitment to schools not selected to participate in DEIS but already in the HSCL Scheme, that they will continue to receive HSCL services after 2006/2007. HSCL services will be provided to some 652 schools in total (282 second level and 370 primary schools) for the duration of the DEIS Action Plan.

Psychological Service.

Paul McGrath

Question:

254 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of staff members currently employed in the National Educational Psychological Service which is based in Mullingar; if additional staff from the National Council for Special Education or the National Education Welfare Board have joined these staff in the location at Friars Mill Road, Mullingar; if there are plans to accommodate the NEPS in the new decentralised Departmental buildings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13240/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I can confirm for the Deputy that there are currently four staff from NEPS accommodated in the offices in Friars Mill Road, Mullingar. Two staff from the National Council for Special Education are also accommodated within these offices but currently none from the National Education Welfare Board. There are no plans at present to accommodate NEPS staff in the new decentralised Departmental building in Mullingar.

School Staffing.

Seamus Healy

Question:

255 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will ensure that the existing compliment of teaching, learning support and resource staff at a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary, be maintained for the school year 2007/2008 in view of the increase in the school population in Bansha and the surrounding area due to increased local authority and private home development there; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13276/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 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 30 September 2005 was 83 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. The school in question is currently the base school for two shared learning support/resource teacher (LS/RT) posts. According to data submitted to my Department by the Board of Management of the school, the enrolment in the school on 30 September 2006 was 72 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 2 mainstream class teachers. The school in question is currently the base school for two shared learning support/resource teacher (LS/RT) posts. One of these posts was allocated under the general allocation system and this post will remain unchanged for the 2007/2008 school year. The second post may remain in the school for the 2007/2008 school year if there are sufficient hours in the school(s) to warrant its retention, based on the criteria outlined in my Department's circular 0036/2006.

A circular will issue to all primary schools shortly in relation to LS/RT arrangements for the 2007/2008 school year. Schools will be required, where appropriate, to submit the necessary information to my Department in relation to their position for September 2007 and when this information is received from the school in question, the matter will be considered further. 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 30 September of the school year in question equals or exceeds a specified figure. If the specified figure is not achieved on 30 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 in 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.

Schools Building Projects.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

256 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a primary school (details supplied) in Dublin 6 has been given a grant allocation of €540,000 in respect of works authorised by her Department which have been costed by professional advisers at €766,906 and that the board of management and parents are not in a position to contribute one-third of the capital cost of the project having regard to the construction and related costs; if she will request her Department’s officials to review the grant allocation in order that 90% of the capital cost would be provided from the substantial capital budget which has been allocated to her Department; and ifshe will make a statement on the matter. [13277/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The school referred to by the Deputy applied and was approved for funding under the devolved Permanent Accommodation Scheme for 2007. The Permanent Accommodation Scheme (PAS) was originally introduced in 2003 on a pilot basis and due to the positive feedback from schools was extended to cover more schools in subsequent years.

The Scheme is not structured on the basis that the Department funding must be supplemented by local fundraising. It does however allow a school to supplement the funding from local resources if they so wish. Clearly where a school has a known level of resources apart from the Department funding or knows its capacity to raise additional resources it is open to that school to extend the scope of works to include additional facilities. A school does not have to accept the invitation to participate in a devolved scheme and instead be considered for inclusion in the mainstream school building programme in line with the project's priority band rating.

I increased funding for the PAS in 2006 by an average of 20%. This increase follows-on from an increase of up to 25% in 2005. The feedback has in general been very positive, the number of schools participating has increased year on year and many schools are anxious to be included. In order to maintain this momentum I approved over 140 additional schools to participate in this scheme in 2007.

The school has very recently forwarded correspondence to the School Building Section of my Department regarding increased funding for the project. The matter will be reviewed and a decision will be conveyed to school management as soon as possible.

School Enrolments.

Joan Burton

Question:

257 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who to date is without a place for primary school; her proposals to address the need of this child and give some reassurance to parents that their child will get a place in the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13303/07]

Joan Burton

Question:

258 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who to date is without a place for primary school; her proposals to address the need of this child and give some reassurance to parents that their child will get a place in the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13304/07]

Joan Burton

Question:

259 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who to date is without a place for primary school; her proposals to address the need of this child and give some reassurance to parents that their child will get a place in the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13305/07]

Joan Burton

Question:

260 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who to date is without a place for primary school; her proposals to address the need of this child and give some reassurance to parents that their child will get a place in the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13306/07]

Joan Burton

Question:

261 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who to date is without a place for primary school; her proposals to address the need of this child and give some reassurance to parents that their child will get a place in the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13307/07]

Joan Burton

Question:

262 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who to date is without a place for primary school; her proposals to address the need of this child and give some reassurance to parents that their child will get a place in the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13308/07]

Joan Burton

Question:

263 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who to date is without a place for primary school; her proposals to address the need of this child and give some reassurance to parents that their child will get a place in the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13309/07]

Joan Burton

Question:

264 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who to date is without a place for secondary school; her proposals to address the need of this child and give some reassurance to parents that their child will get a place in the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13310/07]

Joan Burton

Question:

265 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a person (details supplied) who to date is without a place for primary school; her proposals to address the need of this child and give some reassurance to parents that their child will get a place in the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13311/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 257 to 265, inclusive, together.

Enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools and the Department does not seek to intervene in decisions made by schools in such matters. The Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.

It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools that are not in a position to admit all pupils seeking entry to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act. In this regard a board of management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. In formulating an admissions policy a school must, however, ensure it is lawful. In particular, it must act in accordance with Section 7 of the Equal Status Act 2000 which, subject to very limited exceptions, prohibits schools from discriminating against people in relation to a number of matters including the admission of a pupil to the school.

Currently, under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, parents of a student who has been refused enrolment in a school may appeal that decision to the Secretary General of this Department. Such appeals are dealt with within 30 days of their receipt and where an appeal is upheld the Secretary General is empowered to direct the school to enrol the student. Otherwise, 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 am conscious that there is considerable pressure for school places in the Dublin 15 area in general. Adding to this pressure is the fact that a number of parents have enrolled their children in more than one school. This has the result of inflating the number of children apparently seeking places. Officials in School Planning Section of my Department are constantly liaising with school principals in the area with a view to ensuring that all eligible pupils seeking places for 2007 will have access to them.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

266 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of appointments to State boards, State bodies or other like entities which she envisages making or nominating in the period 26 March 2007 to 31 May 2007 while following the guidelines set out in the Cabinet Handbook regarding eligibility, transparency and gender balance; if she will identify any such board, body or entity involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13317/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The information requested by the Deputy is provided in the following table.

Department of Education and Science Appointments to State Boards 26 March 2007 to 31 May 2007

Board	No. of Appointments	Notes
National Council for Curriculum and Assessment	1	Appointed on Nomination of Chief Inspector
Further Education and Training Awards Council	1
Board of the Advisory Council on English Language Schools	1	Appointed on Nomination of Dublin Tourism
Residential Institutions Redress Board	1
Board of Léargas	1
National Educational Welfare Board	1	Delegated Appointments by Minister of State for Children

School Insurance Costs.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

267 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science if there have been examples of inadequate insurance to cover claims made in primary and secondary schools within the lifetime of this Government; if so, the location, the claim type and the reason for inadequate cover; the action her Department took; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13327/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

The Boards of Management of primary schools are required to comply with The Constitution of Boards and Rules of Procedure which are revised periodically and agreed through discussions involving representatives of the primary management bodies, the INTO and the National Parents Council — Primary and my Department. Those procedures require each board to put in place comprehensive insurance cover to safeguard the school, the Board and the Trustees.

At second level schools other than those that are Community or Comprehensive Schools take out insurance cover.

Claims arising under these policies are processed directly between boards and their insurers without recourse to my Department and I am not aware of any case where the amount of insurance cover was inadequate to meet the amount of the claim.

In cases where the State or Minister is joined in a personal injuries claim by any party the State Claims Agency is the body appointed by the Government to respond to such claims.

Catherine Murphy

Question:

268 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the advice her Department has given to schools in relation to the issue of insurance specifically for child protection to boards of management; if the cost of those insurance policies is covered by the capitation grants or by a specific grant; if her Department reviews the insurance cover to ensure it is adequate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13328/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

My Department has provided a range of supports and guidance to schools in the implementation of child protection policy. Child protection guidelines and procedures, based on Children First – the Department of Health & Children's national guidelines, have been issued to all primary and post-primary schools. These guidelines make very clear the reporting and investigation mechanisms to be followed in cases of suspected child abuse wherever they occur and the lead role of the HSE in dealing with such cases. The Department has provided an extensive in-service training programme for school principals and teachers to assist them in dealing with child protection issues and in implementing these guidelines. An area of my Department's website (www.education.ie) has been specifically designated to the subject of child protection.

The Boards of Management of primary schools are required to comply with The Constitution of Boards and Rules of Procedure which are revised periodically and agreed through discussions involving representatives of the primary management bodies, the INTO and the National Parents Council — Primary and my Department. Those procedures require each board to put in place comprehensive insurance cover to safeguard the school, the Board and the Trustees.

At second level schools other than those that are Community or Comprehensive Schools take out insurance cover.

My Department provides funding to primary and secondary schools by way of per capita grants, which affords schools considerable flexibility in the use of these resources to cater for the needs of their pupils, including insurance costs.

School Staffing.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

269 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science if a decision has been reached by her Department regarding teacher numbers for a school (details supplied) in County Carlow for September 2007; the options open to appeal the decision; the information taken into account in such appeals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13329/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

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 116 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 4 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 109 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 3 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 in 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.

Third Level Education.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

270 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has studied the document issued by the Union of Students in Ireland, An Agenda of Excellence in Third Level Education; her plans to respond to the issues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13334/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I am aware of the document referred to by the Deputy. My commitment and that of this Government to ongoing improvements in higher education is clearly demonstrated by a range of policy developments and funding programmes, including those which encourage wider access to further and third level education.

Higher education in Ireland has come through a period of major expansion. Almost 45,000 new third level places have been created since this Government took Office in 1997 and there are now some 168,000 students in the system. The most recent participation study confirms the continuing trend. It shows that the national admission rate was 55% in 2004 – up from 44% in 1998. Overall investment in the sector on a per annum basis has more than doubled over that period. This stands at some €1.9 billion for the current year.

There are clear indications that the increased investment of resources in this area over the last decade and more is now paying dividends and that targets for participation in higher education that were set in the 2001 Report of the Action Group on Access to Higher Education and the last National Development Plan 2000-2006 have been reached. For example, participation by mature entrants to full-time higher education has grown from 4.5% in 1998 to almost 10% in 2006. Surveys conducted by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) also indicate that access to higher education by young people from under-represented socio-economic groups continues to improve. For example, in 2004, between 33% and 40% of young people nationally from the semi-skilled and unskilled socio-economic groups went on to study in higher education compared to only 23% in 1998. New targets for participation will be developed in 2007, linked to the implementation of the National Development Plan 2007-2013.

Major improvements have been made by this Government in both the income limits for eligibility and the actual grant levels for third level student support. This includes the introduction of the special rate of maintenance grant. The higher rate of this grant is now at a record level of nearly €6,000 for the 2006/07 academic year — compared to just over €2,000 in 1996/97. The allocation for student support schemes in this current year is in excess of €241m.

As the Deputy may already be aware, I plan to introduce a single unified scheme of maintenance grants for students in higher education which will, I believe, provide for a more coherent administrative system. The scheme, which will be underpinned by a new Student Support Bill, will facilitate consistency of application, improved client accessibility and ensure timely delivery of grants to those who need them most. The Student Support Bill is at an advanced stage of preparation. This, together with my commitment to ongoing improvements in the student support schemes, including increasing the rates of grant and the income limits for eligibility as resources permit, will continue to build on our achievements in this area.

With regard to higher education infrastructure, the NDP 2007-2013 provides for an investment of €1.975 billion in modernising campus facilities. This level of investment reflects the significance the Government attaches to infrastructure requirements in the sector. In relation to student accommodation, a special tax incentive was introduced to encourage the provision of student rented residential accommodation in Section 50 of the Finance Act, 1999. The purpose of the relief was to increase the supply of quality accommodation for third level students. The scheme has been very successful in this respect. According to the Indecon Report on the Review of Property-based Tax Incentive Schemes published by the Department of Finance in February 2006, concerns now exist about over-supply of accommodation in the student accommodation sector.

Having regard to developments in the PLC sector, including the McIver Report, negotiations are currently ongoing between the management and the unions. Concrete prioritised proposals in relation to PLC provision and focused in particular on the larger providers are currently being prepared. Provision has been included in the 2007 estimates for this purpose. It is important to emphasise that the arrangements for the PLC sector will be determined in the light of resources available and the implications for other areas of education. Further negotiations have been arranged for after Easter. All parties continue to be positively engaged in the process.

School Transport.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

271 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the process whereby second level students and their parents can complain about a driver operating a school bus run; if any driver operating a school run in County Carlow is under investigation; and if an inspector for bus services for secondary schools has been appointed following a recent retirement of the last such inspector. [13342/07]

Minister of State for the Department of Education and Science (Mr. Haughey)

School Transport Services provided under the School Transport Scheme are administered, on behalf of my Department, by Bus Éireann. If a parent, in County Carlow, wishes to make an enquiry or has a concern in relation to the operation of a school bus service they should, in the first instance, contact the Area Manager, Bus Éireann, Waterford who has responsibility for services in the Carlow area.

Bus Éireann has advised that a new Bus Éireann Inspector has been appointed in Carlow following the recent retirement of his predecessor.

School Insurance Costs.

Damien English

Question:

272 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied in relation to insurance cover for primary schools in the State and that individual members of boards of management are fully indemnified against any claim made by any individuals or groups against any individual member of a board and any board as a corporate body. [13349/07]

Paul Kehoe

Question:

273 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding the indemnification of boards of management for primary schools; and if she will clarify the different roles relating to Vocational Educational Committees taking over the running of primary schools. [13357/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 272 and 273 together.

The Boards of Management of primary schools are required to comply with The Constitution of Boards and Rules of Procedure which are revised periodically and agreed through discussions involving representatives of the primary management bodies, the INTO and the National Parents Council — Primary and my Department. Those procedures require each board to put in place comprehensive insurance cover to safeguard the school, the Board and the Trustees.

While members of Boards have a corporate responsibility to ensure that procedures are in place within the school to keep their pupils safe, they are not personally liable for claims against the school. The Education Act specifically protects individual members from being sued. My Department has confirmed with the primary management bodies that the schools that they represent have appropriate insurance cover. In addition, the head of the Catholic Primary School Managers Association has also publicly reassured board members that they are protected by insurance.

With regard to the Vocational Educational Committees taking over the running of primary schools, 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. My Department has begun 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 Accommodation.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

274 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a school (details supplied) in County Louth was refused funding for essential accommodation; if her attention has been drawn to the overcrowding at the school which is both absolute and demonstrated; if additional funding will be made available to meet this emergency situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13402/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Ms Hanafin)

I can confirm to the Deputy that the school to which he refers applied to the Department for additional accommodation under the Permanent Accommodation Scheme for 2007. Given the type and extent of accommodation required, it was agreed with the school authority that the scope of its project was not suitable for consideration under this Scheme. The project is now being considered for progress by the traditional method of delivery under the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. In the meantime, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that approval has been given for a temporary classroom to meet the schools immediate needs.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

275 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Defence the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13157/07]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

The number of nominations made from each gender to State Boards for which my Department has responsibility is outlined hereunder:

Coiste an Asgard

Year	Male	Female
2002	6	2
2003	1	0
2004	1	0
2005	4	0
2006	0	0
2007	0	0

Army Pensions Board

Year	Male	Female
2002	1	0
2003	0	0
2004	0	0
2005	0	0
2006	0	0
2007	0	0

Civil Defence Board

Year	Male	Female
2002	10	4
2003	0	0
2004	3	0
2005	3	5
2006	0	0
2007	1	0

The Irish Red Cross Society is not a State Board but a charitable autonomous body run by the Central Council through its Executive Committee. The Central Council of the Irish Red Cross Society consists of members elected by the various Society Areas throughout the country and of members nominated by Government. It is statutorily prescribed that not less than one third of the total membership of the Central Council of the Red Cross Society are nominated by the Government to serve for a three year period. The period covered by the question encompasses 3 such periods.

For the period ended 30/4/03, the Government nominated 17 members to the Central Council (13 Male, 4 Female). For the period ended 30/4/06, the Government nominated 17 members to the Central Council (11 Male, 6 Female). For the period ending 30/4/09, the Government nominated 17 members to the Central Council (10 Male, 7 Female). A Male member subsequently resigned on 7 December 2006 and was replaced by a Female member on 31 January 2007 making the current gender breakdown of the Government Nominees to the Central Council 9 Males & 8 Females.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

276 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13203/07]

Minister for Defence (Mr. O’Dea)

I do not envisage making appointments to State Boards, other bodies under the aegis of my Department, or other public appointments of any kind between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007.

Tribunals of Inquiry.

Ciarán Cuffe

Question:

277 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason behind his decision on 28 March 2007 to defer the planned reduction in the fees paid to lawyers at the Mahon tribunal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13362/07]

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

In July 2004, the Government approved reduced fees for all legal representation at Tribunals established from September 2004, and for existing Tribunals that ran over various termination dates set in the light of consultations between the Attorney General and the relevant Chairpersons. The completion date agreed in respect of the Planning Tribunal was 31 March 2007.

In December 2006, the Chairman of the Planning Tribunal, on his own initiative, wrote to me to the effect that:

the Tribunal's public hearings would not be completed by 31 March 2007 principally due to a number of legal challenges which had delayed the work of the Tribunal;

it was now anticipated that public hearings in relation to the remaining modules which the Tribunal intends to conduct will extend until the end of 2007 and possibly into the first months of 2008; and

requesting that the existing fee scales for its internal legal team would continue to apply for 2007.

In the course of subsequent correspondence, a meeting I had with the Chairman on 6 March, and a meeting of officials and Tribunal staff on 12 March, the Tribunal provided further information on the timescale and projected costs of its remaining work. At its meeting on 27 March, Government noted the information provided, agreed that my consultations with the Tribunal would continue and that in the meantime, the existing rates for the Tribunal's legal team would continue to apply.

Appointments to State Boards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

278 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of nominations from each gender to State boards for which his Department has responsibility in each of the years 2002 to date in 2007. [13160/07]

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

The breakdown by gender of the boards of State Bodies under the aegis of my Department is set out in thetable.

Name	Year	Serving female members	Serving male members
Affordable Homes Partnership	2005	3	6
	2006	3	6
	2007 to date	3	6
An Bord Pleanála	2002	4	8
	2003	8	8
	2004	8	8
	2005	4	6
	2006	5	5
	2007 to date	5	5
An Chomhairle Leabharlanna	2002	5	8
	2003	4	9
	2004	4	9
	2005	4	9
	2006	4	9
	2007 to date	4	8
Building Regulations Advisory Body	2002	9	10
	2003	8	11
	2004	8	11
	2005	8	11
	2006	7	12
	2007 to date	0	0
Comhar	2002	12	13
	2003	12	13
	2004	12	13
	2005	12	13
	2006	13	12
	2007 to date	13	12
Dublin Docklands Development Authority – Executive Board	2002	4	4
	2003	4	4
	2004	4	4
	2005	4	4
	2006	4	4
	2007 to date	4	4
Environmental Protection Agency	2002	2	3
	2003	2	3
	2004	2	3
	2005	2	3
	2006	2	3
	2007 to date	2	3
Fire Services Council	2002	8	12
	2003	4	8
	2004	4	8
	2005	6	8
	2006	6	8
	2007 to date	6	8
Heritage Council	2002	7	10
	2003	7	10
	2004	7	10
	2005	8	9
	2006	8	9
	2007 to date	9	8
Housing Finance Agency	2002	5	7
	2003	5	6
	2004	6	6
	2005	6	6
	2006	6	6
	2007 to date	4	5
Irish Water Safety	2002	4	8
	2003	4	8
	2004	4	8
	2005	4	8
	2006	4	9
	2007 to date	4	9
Local Government Computer Services Board	2002	2	9
	2003	2	9
	2004	1	10
	2005	1	10
	2006	1	10
	2007 to date	1	10
Local Government Management Services Board	2002	0	11
	2003	0	13
	2004	1	12
	2005	1	12
	2006	1	12
	2007 to date	1	12
National Building Agency	2002	6	7
	2003	6	7
	2004	6	7
	2005	6	7
	2006	3	8
	2007 to date	4	8
Private Residential Tenancies Board	2004	7	8
	2005	7	8
	2006	6	9
	2007 to date	6	9
Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland	2002	5	8
	2003	5	8
	2004	4	9
	2005	4	9
	2006	4	10
	2007 to date	3	9
Rent Tribunal	2002	4	5
	2003	4	5
	2004	4	5
	2005	4	4
	2006	4	3
	2007 to date	4	3

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

279 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the appointments to State boards, other bodies under the aegis of his Department, or other public appointments of any kind, which will be due to be made by him between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007. [13206/07]

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

I refer to the reply to Question No. 275 of 28 March 2007. For the period 29 March to 4 July 2007 the position is as set out in that reply, with the sole exception that one appointment has recently been made to the board of the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland, leaving a total of 3 appointments (rather than 4) to be made to that body between 29 March 2007 and 4 July 2007.

Local Authority Funding.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

280 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding available from his Department to the different local authorities that has not been spent; and the breakdown of the figures according to local authority and area of expenditure. [13227/07]

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

Some €2.54 billion was provided in both current and capital funding by my Department for local authority services and capital programmes in 2006. Of this a net sum of €7 million was not drawn down by the end of the year: this has been included in the Department's overall capital carryover of €20 million into 2007 under the Multi-Annual Capital Investment Framework. It is not administratively feasible to disaggregate the underspend of €7 million to specific projects or to individual local authorities.

Water Quality.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

281 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the report on Guidelines for Local Authorities on Minimising the Risk of Cryptosporidium in Water Supplies dating from 1998 is generally available; if it has been updated; if it is based on current standard European Union standards; if reports on its implementation have been regularly transmitted to his Department from local authorities; and if, in view of the situation which Galway faces he will provide an urgent reply. [13241/07]

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

In 1998, my Department circulated detailed guidelines to local authorities on minimising the risk of cryptosporidium in water supplies. The guidelines were prepared in consultation with the Department of Health and Children and the Environmental Protection Agency and circulated to local authorities. They provided advice to local authorities on preventing cryptosporidium entering water supply systems and covered all aspects of water supply management, including source protection, monitoring, treatment processes, storage and distribution as well as responding to an outbreak.

In September 2004, the EPA produced a handbook for local authorities on implementation of the Drinking Water Regulations 2000. This updated and elaborated on the Department's earlier guidelines by including a cryptosporidium risk assessment methodology and further guidance on monitoring for cryptosporidium in light of the outcome of individual risk assessments. In November 2004, the National Disease Surveillance Centre (now the Health Protection Surveillance Centre) also published a report on waterborne cryptosporidiosis.

The handbook and report were circulated by the EPA to all local authorities who were requested to prepare risk assessments for each water source and supply, using the updated methodology and are available on the EPA website. Almost 400 such risk assessments were carried out and transmitted to the EPA.

The above guidance documents set out best practice in relation to the management of cryptosporidium. EU requirements in relation to the monitoring of drinking water for clostridium perfringens – an indicator of possible cryptosporidium contamination – are set out in the EU Drinking Water Directive 98/83/EC of 3 November 1998, which was given effect in Irish law by the European Communities (Drinking Water) Regulations, 2000. These Regulations were replaced and updated by the European Communities (Drinking Water) Regulations, 2007 that I brought into force on 8 March last. The 2007 Regulations give the Environmental Protection Agency additional supervisory and enforcement powers in relation to monitoring and standards of all water supplies. The Agency now has powers to ensure that any failure to comply with quality standards is immediately investigated and that an appropriate remedial action plan is put in place and implemented.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

282 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when his Department informed Galway City Council of the availability of €21.5 million to upgrade the Terryland filtration system; if his Department initiated inspections of the filtration systems of water treatment plants; if it sought to put pressure on local authorities to use the funding made available to them; the most recent review that exists in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13242/07]

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

284 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will, as an emergency measure, sanction additional sources as are necessary, together with the release of funds as may alleviate the crisis in relation to its water supply facing Galway city and county, facilitate short-term measures and enable the major capital works to be fast tracked; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13244/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 282 and 284 together.

The Galway City Water Supply Scheme was included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2002 – 2004, published on 16 April 2002, as a scheme to advance through planning. The scheme has retained its approved status in subsequent iterations of the Programme. These were published on 13 August 2003, 7 May 2004 and 16 December 2005. My Department is awaiting the submission of a Brief by the City Council for the appointment of consultantsto prepare a Preliminary Report for thescheme.

I visited Galway last Friday to meet the local authorities and the Health Services Executive and to assist in promoting the earliest possible solution to the current difficulties. As a result, a range of short, medium and longer term measures have been agreed with a view to satisfactory drinking water supplies being restored as soon as possible. It was agreed that the two local authorities would work to reduce the impact on householders arising from the current problems. I have also offered Government logistical assistance to the Council if this is required.

In particular, these measures include an increased supply from the Tuam Regional Scheme which will allow the old Terryland plant to be decommissioned; the installation of an interim package treatment plant and the completion of the substantive upgrading project in Terryland. Appropriate resources, including over €48m in capital funding, have been pledged for this purpose.

Michael D. Higgins

Question:

283 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the frequency, dates, results and responses to such information as was provided to his Department by Galway City Council and Galway County Council in view of the fact that it is a legal requirement that water be regularly tested; the dates and the section of his Department to which this information was transmitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13243/07]

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

Management of their public drinking water supplies is the responsibility of the relevant local authority. The results of monitoring of individual water supplies are forwarded by local authorities to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on being required to do so by the Agency under section 58 of the Environmental Protection Act 1992. Information on the quality of drinking water supplies is included in a report prepared annually by the EPA. The latest relevant EPA report The Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland — A Report for the Year 2005 is available in the Oireachtas Library.

Question No. 284 answered with QuestionNo. 282.

Planning Issues.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

285 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to change the law regarding illegal encampments on public land; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the law has been changed in that area in the UK; and if he plans to follow same. [13358/07]

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

Relevant legislation prohibiting the unauthorised placing of temporary dwellings on land and coming within the ambit of my Department is contained in the Local Government (Sanitary Services) Act 1948 and the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992 as amended by Section 32 of the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act 1998 and Section 21 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002. There are no plans to amend this legislation. Relevant provisions in the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 concerning offences relating to entering and occupying land without consent are a matter for my colleague the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Road Traffic Offences.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

286 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of penalty points issued in each of the years since their inception, with a breakdown by offence. [13477/07]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

287 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of penalty points issued in each of the years since their inception by offence, with a breakdown of the offence category by the number of drivers who held an Irish licence. [13478/07]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

288 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of penalty points issued in each of the years since their inception by offence, with a breakdown of the offence category by age. [13479/07]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

289 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of penalty points issued in each of the years since their inception by offence, with a breakdown of the offence category by licence status. [13480/07]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

290 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of drivers who currently have penalty points, with a breakdown in each case by the number of penalty points held. [13481/07]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

291 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of drivers to date disqualified from driving on the basis of the number of penalty points reached. [13482/07]

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 286 to 291, inclusive, together.

Questions in relation to penalty points are a matter for the Road Safety Authority (RSA) under the aegis of the Minister for Transport. My Department issues penalty point notices on behalf of the RSA, and provides the latter agency and the Department of Transport with data to enable them to respond to requests for statistical and other information on the penalty points system.