Written Answers.

Garda Deployment.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

101 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the 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 each year since 2002 and to date in 2007; the reason there has been no increase in the number of JLOs 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. [22502/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

482 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to augment or upgrade the juvenile liaison officer service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22856/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 101 and 482 together.

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the number of Juvenile Liaison Officers in An Garda Síochána as of 30th June 2007 was 86 Gardaí and 8 Sergeants which represents .7% of the strength of the force. Of course, while these officers are dedicated to this service, a great many other Gardaí are engaged in liaising with juveniles on a day to day basis.

The number of dedicated Juvenile Liaison Officers as of 31st December in each of the years 2002-2006 was as follows:

Year	Gardaí	Sergeants
2006	87 Gardaí	8 Sergeants = .73%
2005	87 Gardaí	8 Sergeants = .77%
2004	86 Gardaí	8 Sergeants = .77%
2003	85 Gardaí	8 Sergeants = .77%
2002	85 Gardaí	8 Sergeants = .78%

The Commissioner has approved an additional 28 posts for Juvenile Liaison Officers (JLO) to be phased in over the next 4 years, commencing with the allocation of 7 JLOs planned for this year.

Garda personnel assignments throughout the Country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed by Garda management. The purpose of this is to ensure that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

National Drugs Strategy.

James Reilly

Question:

102 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make representations to the relevant Garda authorities and put in place new Garda manpower and a dedicated drugs squad to tackle the increasing drugs problem in towns in north Fingal (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22160/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that in the Louth/Meath Garda Division there are 7 drug units one of which is based in the Balbriggan Garda District whose area of remit includes the areas referred to by the Deputy.

The detection and prevention of drug related crime is, of course, a matter for all members of An Garda Síochána.

Uniform and plain-clothes personnel, including the District Detective and Drug Units, as well as Community Policing and Mountain Bike Units supplemented as required by Divisional Traffic Corps personnel, conduct regular patrols in the areas referred to by the Deputy to prevent and detect criminal activity including that related to drugs.

Ongoing liaison is also maintained with the Garda National Drugs Unit in respect of persons suspected of being involved in the illegal importation and/or distribution of drugs. The Deputy will be aware that resources such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation and the Criminal Assets Bureau are also deployed extensively in dealing with drug crime.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that the allocation of additional resources in the areas referred to by the Deputy remains under constant review by local senior Garda management who also continuously monitor District and Divisional crime trends.

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

The assignment of Garda personnel 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. This takes place against the background of the unprecedented expansion of An Garda Síochána which has taken and will continue to take place increasing the overall strength of the Gardaí to 16,000.

Finally I can assure the Deputy that the enforcement of the law relating to drugs very much continues to be a key element in the Government's policing priorities.

Garda Strength.

Billy Timmins

Question:

103 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the breakdown of the number of Gardaí in each Garda division; the number of Gardaí per head of population in each division; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22580/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of each operational Garda Division as at the 31 August, 2007 was as set out in the table below. I understand that the Central Statistics Office is currently preparing the Small Area Population Statistics (SAPS) based on the 2006 census. It is not expected that these SAPS figures will be available until mid-November 2007. It is, therefore, not yet possible to provide the number of Gardaí per head of population in each division based on the 2006 Census figures.

Garda personnel assignments throughout the Country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are constantly monitored and reviewed by Garda Management. The purpose of this is to ensure that optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

Division	Strength
Carlow/Kildare	393
Cavan/Monaghan	396
Clare	299
Cork City	639
Cork North	276
Cork West	284
D.M.R. East	599
D.M.R. N.C.	677
D.M.R. North	656
D.M.R. S.C.	740
D.M.R. South	597
D.M.R. West	727
Donegal	472
Galway West	412
Kerry	304
Laois/Offaly	306
Longford/Westmeath	303
Louth/Meath	570
Mayo	301
Roscommon/Galway East	265
Sligo/Leitrim	289
Tipperary	351
Waterford/Kilkenny	407
Wexford/Wicklow	360

Prison Accommodation.

Frank Feighan

Question:

104 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the operational capacity of Mountjoy Prison; the number of prisoners incarcerated in Mountjoy at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22536/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am informed by the Director General of the Irish Prison Service that Mountjoy Prison currently has a bed capacity for 540 prisoners. As at 4 October, 2007, there were 514 prisoners in custody in Mountjoy out of a total prisoner population of 3,444. Every effort continues to be made to keep Mountjoy numbers at or below 540 by means of transfers to other prisons and the judicious use of temporary release.

By way of comparison, in 2004 Mountjoy had a bed capacity for 454 prisoners. On 4 October 2004, there were 472 prisoners in Mountjoy out of a total prisoner population of 3,406.

Garda Training.

Shane McEntee

Question:

105 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the adequacy or otherwise of firearm training for members of An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22556/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that he is satisfied with the level of training provided for members of An Garda Síochána who are authorised to carry firearms. It compares favourably with similar training provided internationally by other Police Services.

Firearms Authorisation Card Holders, who are designated personnel permitted to carry firearms in An Garda Síochána, are required to attend for firearms refresher training at least three times per calendar year. Two of the refresher training courses are for ‘live fire' and one course takes place on the recently acquired Firearms Automated Training System (FATS).

An Garda Síochána has two full-time Firearms Training Units, based at Garda Headquarters and the Garda College.

Significant developments in An Garda Síochána Firearms Training over the last 18 months have included:

The purchase of three FATS units took place in January 2006. FATS refresher training commenced immediately thereafter and has since proved to be a very successful development. FATS facilitates judgmental training by posing armed scenarios on screen which the Firearms Authorisation Card Holders must contend with in a real time situation.

The FATS facility allows playback where the Firearms Authorisation Card Holders can then evaluate their actions and decisions with Firearms Training Instructors.

FATS training has allowed development of judgmental firearm training as well as traditional marksmanship training.

Two Prefabricated Modular Firearms ranges have been ordered by An Garda Síochána and delivery and installation is expected before the year end. One range will be located at the former disused range at the Garda College and the second at a new site in Airton Road, Tallaght.

These Prefabricated Modular Firearms ranges are newly designed products recently brought to the market that will facilitate live fire shooting for up to four persons in a carefully contained environment which adheres to all range safety requirements. The delivery of the two prefabricated Modular Firearms ranges will reduce An Garda Síochána dependency on using army ranges and furthermore will provide access to firearms ranges at all times without causing noise pollution to neighbouring areas.

Garda Firearms training is constantly reviewed to ensure that sufficient training is provided and that training compares favourably with international best practice.

Garda Inspectorate Reports.

Pádraic McCormack

Question:

106 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the actions he proposes to take in respect of implementing the recommendations of the recently published Report of the Garda Síochána Inspectorate, Policing in Ireland: Looking Forward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22551/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I welcome the third report of the Garda Inspectorate entitled, "Policing in Ireland — Looking Forward". It is a comprehensive examination of administration and operation of the Garda Síochána and I would like to record my gratitude to the Chief Inspector Kathleen O'Toole and her colleagues Bob Olson and Gwen Boniface for their work. As the members of the House know, the Garda Síochána has been undergoing a programme of quite fundamental change in recent years. Many of the changes were brought about by the Garda Síochána Acts 2005 to 2007 and these involved fundamental structural changes such as the establishment of the Garda Ombudsman Commission and the Inspectorate; the transfer of responsibility to the Commissioner for matters such as expenditure and the employment of civilians; and the specification in statute of the role of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in setting the broad strategic direction of the Force. Now that the legislative environment has been reshaped, the focus for the programme of change and modernisation is moving to the internal administration and operation of the Garda Síochána. This is where the Garda Inspectorate has a key role in ensuring that the resources of the Garda Síochána are used as efficiently and effectively as possible. It is my role as Minister and that of my Department to support the Garda Síochána in achieving that goal of continued efficient and effective policing. The Inspectorate in its report has made a number of recommendations covering a broad range of issues ranging from the devolution of greater autonomy to regional Assistant Commissioners to the need to review recruit training. The Inspectorate has not suggested deadlines for the implementation of all its recommendations and understandably so. Some of the recommendations are already being implemented while others such as a review of recruit training will require further work on the part of the Inspectorate in the first instance. I expect to see early implementation of the Inspectorate's recommendations and my Department with the assistance of the Inspectorate will monitor their implementation.

Garda Communications.

Charles Flanagan

Question:

107 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of An Garda Síochána who have corporate e-mail addresses; the factors impeding greater use of corporate e-mail by Gardaí; if measures are in place to increase the usage of corporate e-mail by An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22532/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that all members who have access to the Garda Information System (GIS) which incorporates PULSE and the Garda National Immigration Bureau Systems have access to Email for internal use.

Access to external email is available to all Gardaí from the rank of Inspector upwards. I am also advised that external email is also available to Sergeants, Gardaí and civilian staff as operational needs require. A total of 1,066 external email addresses are currently being utilised by Gardaí and civilian staff.

I am further informed by the Garda Authorities that a pilot project to facilitate email communications between An Garda Síochána and members of the public using mailboxes assigned to individual sections and stations is currently underway. The pilot will assess the various factors that need to be addressed with regard to greater use of external email by An Garda Síochána, including the type and volume of Garda business that can be transacted using email, the potential uses for Section and Station emails and the security and resource implications for the Garda network.

Following the pilot project external email facilities will be rolled out on a phased basis to all stations in the DMR and to District HQ stations and other stations outside the DMR where the necessary network infrastructure is in place. The roll-out will also include making external email facilities available for all members of Sergeant rank of whom there are over 2,100 in active service.

Inquiries into Garda Activities.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

108 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the operation of the Garda Ombudsman’s office in view of recent events; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22565/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I presume that the question relates to a recent application by the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission to the Coroner for the adjournment of an inquest.

The Coroner is an independent office holder who acts in the public interest in the investigation of certain deaths. The Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission is a newly established independent office which also operates in the public interest in the investigation of complaints made against members of an Garda Síochána. The functions of both the Coroner and the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission are guided by statute and neither is answerable to me in respect of actions taken in individual cases.

It is incumbent on me as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to respect the independence and the distinct roles of both the Ombudsman Commission and the Coroner in our system of democratic accountability. Consequently, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on the circumstances of this or any other individual case.

Prison Accommodation.

David Stanton

Question:

109 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his future plans for Spike Island; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22570/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I wish to inform the deputy that plans for the future of Spike Island are being considered by an Interdepartmental Group comprising of representatives from my Department and the Departments of Arts, Sport and Tourism; Finance and Defence. This group has begun its deliberations and I await its findings.

Forensic Science Laboratory.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

110 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans for the upgrading of the Garda Forensic Science Laboratory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22575/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I assume the Deputy is referring to the Forensic Science Laboratory which, although located within the Garda Headquarters complex at Phoenix Park, is a separate civilian led service coming under the aegis of my Department.

My Department works closely with the Laboratory in assessing and responding to its needs. To this end an additional 10 staff were sanctioned for the Laboratory in December of last year and, on foot of an analysis carried out by an independent international expert, it is expected that staffing will be increased further in the near future. It is also proposed to provide a new building for the Laboratory and this project will proceed as a matter of urgency.

Garda Equipment.

Joe Costello

Question:

111 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will act on the call from the Garda Inspectorate that all members of the force be given appropriate protection vests in view of the increased dangers faced by members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22483/07]

Charles Flanagan

Question:

143 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the percentage of An Garda Síochána that has access to bullet proof vests on a daily basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22531/07]

Tom Hayes

Question:

173 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the average time Gardaí have to wait for stab-proof vests once a decision has been taken to procure same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22539/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

493 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to ensure improved protection for Gardaí such as personal armour protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22867/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 111, 143, 173 and 493 together.

The Deputy will be aware that the detailed allocation of Garda resources, including equipment, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner to be decided on the basis of his identified operational requirements. I am advised by the Garda authorities that two types of protective body armour are in use. Detectives are issued with protective vests that have bullet and stab proof properties. All Detectives have access to these vests. Uniform Personnel are issued with protection vests which incorporate bullet and stab proof properties. The uniform vest is lighter and more flexible.

I am advised by the Garda authorities that a contract for the supply and delivery of over 12,500 protective body vests (with an option to purchase additional vests, if required) has been put in place. A fitting and delivery programme commenced early this year. I am further advised that to date 79% of operational members, students undergoing training and reserves have received their personal issue vest. It is expected to complete the current roll out phase before the end of the year. Further rollouts will take place as ongoing recruitment progresses.

The standard and quality of the protective vests are kept under constant review by the Garda authorities.

Rural Policing.

Denis Naughten

Question:

112 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps which he will take to improve rural policing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22156/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that engagement with the rural community and rural policing is one of the priorities of An Garda Síochána. Senior Garda management continually monitor resources and policing initiatives to ensure that the service being provided is continuously improving and the recent comments by the Inspectorate in this regard will be taken on board. Rural Policing is continually being reviewed and developed and the enhanced liaison structures between Garda Management and Local Authorities through Joint Policing Committees and Community Policing Fora will be of enormous benefit to the policing of rural areas when these are fully up and running.

There are now Detective Inspectors appointed in each Division with specific responsibility for the investigation of serious crime in rural areas. The quality of criminal intelligence becoming available to An Garda Síochána is continually being improved and it was as a result of such intelligence that a Cork-based gang targeting the elderly in rural areas of Cork and Limerick was identified early this year and a number of suspected members of the group are currently before the Courts.

In order to enhance rural policing a number of initiatives have been implemented in Garda Divisions nationally. Checkpoints are held at strategic locations in rural villages in order to detect criminals travelling to commit crime outside the areas where they live and to prevent the commission of crimes and offences.

Crime Prevention Officers are available to offer crime prevention and security advice to residential and business groups and regularly provide such advice through local media outlets, newspaper and radio broadcasts. In addition, residents in rural areas are encouraged to establish and rejuvenate Community Alert Schemes assisted by members of local Community Policing Units.

Staffing levels at Garda stations are monitored by local Garda management to ensure that adequate coverage is provided and where vacancies arise within the rural community they are filled as expeditiously as possible to ensure continuity in the service being provided by An Garda Síochána to the local community.

Initiatives under Operation ‘Anvil' have been implemented in every Garda District in the country incorporating special crime prevention/ detection patrols in rural areas which have been identified as being particularly vulnerable to crime. Such patrols include all available Garda resources including uniform and plain-clothes personnel, District Detective and Drug Units as well as Divisional Crime Task Forces and Traffic Corps personnel. Patrol times are also varied in order to maximise coverage in such areas.

In conjunction with Muintir na Tire, I will launch the Community Alert Strategy document for 2007-2011 on the 26 October 2007. This new strategy will inform how best Community Alert can be implemented over the next five years.

An internal Garda working group has been established to develop a comprehensive model of Community Policing. This model is being informed by an extensive public consultation process.

Garda personnel assignments throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed by Garda management. The purpose of such monitoring is to ensure that optimum use is made of Garda resources and that the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.

Garda Investigations.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

113 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date with regard to the Garda investigation into the shooting of a Garda in the North Strand area of Dublin on 25 September 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22477/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The reprehensible gun attack on Garda Paul Sherlock is a stark reminder of the dangers facing members of the Garda Síochána as they go about their daily task of protecting us all.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the investigation into the shooting of Garda Sherlock in the North Strand area of Dublin on 25 September, 2007 is ongoing. To date the investigating team has undertaken a number of lines of enquiry, including the examination of CCTV footage and making door-to-door enquiries. An extensive investigation team has been assembled comprising Gardaí attached to the DMR North Central Garda Division and the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, supported by members from Crime and Security Section, Garda Headquarters. This investigation is progressing and a number of persons have been arrested and questioned in connection with this incident.

I am further informed that Garda management is satisfied with the progress being made in this investigation.

I would like to reiterate my call for all members of the community to support An Garda Síochána in their efforts and provide any assistance they can to bring those responsible for this appalling crime to justice.

Garda Reserve.

Joe McHugh

Question:

114 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of civilians working as part of the Garda reserve force at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22537/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

There are two civilian staff members attached to the Reserve Section of the Garda Síochána. The total personnel strength of the Garda Reserve is 248 including trainees. A total of 113 members are fully attested.

Criminal Assets Bureau.

Michael Creed

Question:

115 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps that have been taken to organise the Criminal Assets Bureau to tackle drug crime at local level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22548/07]

Shane McEntee

Question:

126 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if plans are in place to enhance the resources and powers allocated to the Criminal Assets Bureau in view of the rise of gangland crime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22555/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 115 and 126 together.

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 existence, come to be viewed, both domestically and internationally, as a very successful model for targeting persons seeking to derive profits from criminal activities.

The Bureau keeps the allocation of personnel under constant review in light of its workload and where there is a requirement, additional resources are allocated to the Bureau.

The staff of the Bureau will be augmented as required. For example, two additional financial crime analysts posts have been recently sanctioned and recruitment is under way.

Furthermore two additional members of staff from the Revenue Commissioners will also be shortly assigned to the Bureau.

In relation to the issue of the Bureau's work at local levels, I can inform the Deputy that in order to maximise the benefit that can be derived from local knowledge, officers from the Criminal Assets Bureau work closely with gardaí from specific regions and localities in order to ensure that the efforts of the Bureau are targeted in the most effective manner possible.

In particular, profilers trained by CAB are now in place in each Garda Division and the number of profilers in particular Divisions is being increased. This will enable drug dealers at whatever level in communities to be pursued.

In this context, I have previously advised this House that I intend to include in the Government's policing priorities for An Garda Síochána a specific reference to enhanced liaison arrangements between Garda Divisions and the Criminal Assets Bureau in the pursuit of those engaged in drug dealing at all levels.

The use of local Garda officers in this way ensures that preparatory groundwork can be carried out in advance of a full investigation by the Bureau. Asset profilers have at all times recourse to the expertise and advice of the Bureau. Essentially a key function of these profilers is to ascertain and build up information at local levels and point out individuals at whom the Bureau's work can be targeted. Such information is then investigated and followed up further by CAB.

I can assure the House that any individuals in local communities who believe they can openly flaunt wealth or assets secured through illegal activities, including drug dealing, will be 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.

Finally, I can assure the House that whatever resources are required by CAB will continue to be provided by the Government.

Garda Communications.

Martin Ferris

Question:

116 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the secure digital radio communications system which has been piloted and promised will be rolled out for all Gardaí. [22512/07]

Deirdre Clune

Question:

145 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the digital communication network for Gardaí currently being piloted in the Dublin Metropolitan Area will be rolled out nationwide; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22550/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 116 and 145 together.

A preferred bidder, TETRA Ireland Ltd, has been selected for the provision of a digital radio service for An Garda Síochána and other emergency services.

As part of the procurement process, the preferred bidder was required to carry out a service performance evaluation in an area covering parts of Dublin and Meath including the Port and Airport. The aim is to ensure that the preferred supplier demonstrates its capability, both from a technical and organisational perspective, to deliver this key service for the emergency services. I understand that the service performance evaluation is nearing completion.

Nationwide rollout will commence on completion of the service performance evaluation and the signing of contracts by the Department of Finance. It is planned that nationwide rollout for the Gardaí will commence in the first quarter of next year and is expected to be completed over a 2 year period.

Civilianisation Programme.

Joan Burton

Question:

117 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals for further civilianisation of the Gardaí in order to free trained members for front line duty; his views on the view expressed in the final report of the Advisory Group on Garda Management and Leadership Development that progress in regard to civilianisation has been risible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22482/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of full time and part time civilian staff assigned to An Garda Síochána as at the 1st October 2007 was 2,247. 250 Clerical Officers have been recruited and assigned positions within the Garda Síochána since 1st January 2007. The Government has authorised the Garda Commissioner to recruit a further 350 civilians to release trained members of the force for front-line duty.

The civilianisation of middle and senior positions in An Garda Síochána has commenced. Currently, there is a Chief Administrative Officer, Director of Finance, Head of Internal Audit, HR Manager, Housing Officer, Transport Manager and a civilian of Principal Officer grade in the Information Technology section. A Civilian Director of Communications will take up her post this month. Recruitment for the following positions will start in the coming weeks — Director of Information and Communications Technology, Director of Change Management, Head of Legal Affairs and Executive Director of Human Resources. This will be in addition to the recruitment of a number of civilian crime analysts.

The current campaign to recruit the balance of the authorised additional civilian support staff for An Garda Síochána is well underway and interviews are being held by the Public Appointments Service to recruit these Clerical Officers.

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

I am assured by the Commissioner that An Garda Síochána is committed to achieving the greatest level of civilianisation consistent with the effective and efficient functioning of the Force and will continue to work to drive the civilianisation programme forward.

Recidivism Rate.

Dan Neville

Question:

118 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the rate of re-offending in criminal matters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22560/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The results of the first major study of prisoner re-offending was published in December, 2006 by the UCD Institute of Criminology. The study, which received the full co-operation of the Irish Prison Service, was based on 19,955 prisoner releases that took place between 1 January, 2001, and 30 November, 2004.

The study found that 27.4% of released prisoners were serving a new prison sentence within one year. This rose to 39.2% after two years, 45.1% after three years, and 49.2% after four years. Recidivism was highest amongst property offenders and lowest for sex offenders.

The findings are in line with international experience, and I understand that they may in fact be considered to fall in the mid to lower range internationally. I can assure the Deputy that every effort is being made by my Department to continue to address and reduce the rate of recidivism.

Garda Operations.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

119 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of the policing operation at the proposed Shell refinery site at Bellanaboy, County Mayo; and if there is currently a policing plan in place in that divisional area. [22515/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the total cost to date, including salaries, of the Garda policing operation at the proposed Shell refinery site at Bellanaboy, Co. Mayo, is approximately €8.1 million.

I am further informed that there is in place a Garda policing plan within the Garda Division in respect of the Garda Síochána's statutory duty to prevent breaches of the criminal law at Bellanaboy. The allocation of resources to this policing plan is closely monitored and kept under constant review by local senior Garda management.

Prison Building Programme.

Ulick Burke

Question:

120 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the project to construct a new prison at Thornton Hall, County Dublin; the amount of money that has been spent on the Thornton Hall project to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22533/07]

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

136 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to the proposed Thornton Hall Prison plan; the latest estimate available to his Department of the expected cost, including the cost of the site, the provision of infrastructure and ancillary services; the cost of construction and fitting out of the prison; the implications for the overall timing of the prison project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22487/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 120 and 136 together.

The current status of the Thornton Hall Prison project is as follows. Negotiations are currently underway with a preferred bidder, who was selected following an EU public tender procedure in relation to the construction and maintenance of the prison complex at the Thornton Hall site. It is intended that these facilities will provide a modern and cost effective replacement for the prison complex currently located at the Mountjoy Complex which, as is widely acknowledged, is in urgent need of replacement.

The contract under negotiation is a Public Private Partnership model which will include the construction of the required prison facilities along with the ancillary infrastructure including services etc. The relevant planning procedure for this development is set out in Part 4 of the Prisons Act, 2007 and in this regard it is planned to publish the necessary notices etc. including details of the proposed development along with a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment within the next month or so. The procedures for public consultation regarding the proposed development are set out in the Act and as can be seen, these afford all interested parties ample opportunity to make their views known and have them fully considered prior to a decision to proceed with the development. It is intended, subject to the statutory planning phase and the successful conclusion of the contract negotiations, to commence construction next spring and to begin operation of the new facilities in early 2010.

A section of the Thornton Hall site has been set aside as a location for a replacement for the Central Mental Hospital. That project, including the relevant planning requirements, is being dealt with by the Department for Health and Children and it will have no bearing on the timing of the prison project.

It is not, for commercial and procurement reasons, possible to provide details as to the likely costs of the project. The disclosure of such information is, in any event, not allowed under Department of Finance PPP procedures.

I can however confirm the following expenditure which has taken place to date on the project. The cost of the site acquisition was €29,900,000. An additional 8.7 acres has also been acquired to provide a dedicated access road to the main site. This was done following representations from the local community which reflected concern in relation to the effect of increased traffic generated by the prison project. In addition to allaying these concerns, the new roadway will provide significant additional benefits both during the construction and operational phases of the project. The cost of this additional land was €1,305,000.

A total of €4,808,475 has been expended to date on preliminary site works including surveys, landscaping, security and maintenance of the property, studies such as archaeological, topographical, etc., and professional fees including legal and specialist technical advice.

Firearms Offences.

Tom Sheahan

Question:

121 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide data in respect of the number of recorded robberies of legally held firearms in the State during the period 2002 to 2007; the number of recorded robberies of legally held firearms to date in 2007; if sufficient measures are in place to minimise such robberies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22566/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Following the submission in 2004 of a report and recommendations by an expert group on crime statistics, it was 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, the CSO is now compiling and publishing criminal statistics and has published provisional headline crime statistics since the third quarter 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 statistics sought by the Deputy directly to him.

Every effort is made in the licensing process and otherwise to ensure that all licensed firearm holders are conscious of their obligations in relation to the safe storage of their firearm. To this end all firearm certificates are accompanied by recommendations and advice in relation to the safe storage and security of firearms.

The Criminal Justice Act, 2006 provides for increased fines and penalties for firearm offences. A person found in possession of a firearm in suspicious circumstances or with criminal intent is liable to imprisonment for up to 14 years with a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years.

I recently established a Firearms Consultative Panel to assist with the introduction of a new firearms licensing system which is provided for in the Criminal Justice Act, 2006. The Panel will comprise representatives of the various shooting interest groups, relevant Government Departments and An Garda Síochána. I will make details of the panel and its terms of reference known in the near future.

Illegal Immigrants.

Bernard Allen

Question:

122 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps being taken at European level to tackle illegal immigration and the trafficking of human beings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18720/07]

Bernard Allen

Question:

142 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action being taken at European level to prevent human trafficking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18718/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 122 and 142 together.

The stated objective of the European Union is to develop a comprehensive migration policy which covers both legal and illegal migration. The Deputy will find a statement of the Commission's current priorities in combating illegal immigration of third-country nationals in Commission document COM (2006) 402. The Communication addresses nine priority areas and proposes a number of practical and action focused measures. These priorities are:

Co-operation with third countries;

Secure Borders — Integrated management of external borders;

Fight against human trafficking;

Secure travel and ID documents;

Addressing regularisations (the discretionary decision to grant a legal stay on the territory);

Tackling a key pull factor: illegal employment;

Return policy;

Improving exchange of information through existing channels.

Carriers liability.

These measures are intended to build upon the Hague programme which contains a special emphasis on immigration and asylum and which sets out a five-year programme for closer co-operation in Justice and Home Affairs at EU level from 2005 to 2010.

In December 2005, the European Council adopted the EU Action Plan on best practices, standards and procedures for combatting and preventing trafficking in human beings. The Action Plan is divided under a number of headings:

Co-ordination of EU Action.

Scoping the problem.

Preventing trafficking.

Reducing demand.

Investigating and prosecuting.

Protecting and supporting victims.

Returns and reintegration.

External relations.

Under the heading of preventing trafficking, the EU Action Plan has three specific objectives:

Addressing the root causes of trafficking;

Raising awareness of the dangers involved in trafficking and publicising successful prosecutions to deter traffickers;

Enabling early identification of victims to prevent exploitation.

There are a number of actions currently being taken by the EU under the Action Plan. A network of contact points in Member States is being established. The first EU Anti-Trafficking Day will take place on 18 October 2007 and both An Garda Síochána and officials of my Department will participate in a Seminar organised by the European Commission on that day examining what steps should be taken next at European level.

The Portuguese Presidency are currently holding a conference in Porto on human trafficking and gender specific issues. The European Commission has prioritised trafficking in human beings prevention projects for funding under the "Prevention of and fight against crime" programme for 2007. These are just some of the actions taking place this year, at EU level, as it would not be possible, by way of parliamentary question, to mention all of them.

The Council of Europe convention on action against trafficking in human beings was adopted by the committee of Ministers on 3 May 2005 and opened for signature in Warsaw on 16 May 2005. The Convention is regarded widely as a comprehensive Treaty that effectively focuses on the protection of victims and the safeguarding of their rights. In 2006, the Council of Europe launched a campaign "Human Beings — Not for Sale" to raise awareness about the issue of human trafficking and to promote the widest possible accession to the convention. My officials and An Garda Síochána have actively participated in the campaign and Ireland signed the Convention in April 2007. Developing a timetable for ratification of the Convention will be an early priority for this Government.

My Department will continue to participate in all relevant EU, UN and Council of Europe fora on human trafficking and both my officials and An Garda Síochána will continue to work on a bilateral basis with other governments on both operational and policy development issues. My Department is also participating in the UN Global Initiative to fight human trafficking which is a two year programme launched by the UN earlier this year with the support of the United Arab Emirates.

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that Liaison at an international level between the Garda Síochána and the European / international law enforcement community is part of the approach to the issue of human trafficking taken by An Garda Síochána. Representatives of An Garda Síochána, at senior management level, regularly participate at both European and international meetings to facilitate the exchange of information and best practice between EU Member States in particular, and on a more global basis, with countries of origin of suspected victims of human trafficking, including meetings hosted by Europol, Interpol and Frontex.

Members of An Garda Síochána have attended courses held at CEPOL — European Police College, relating to the subject of "Trafficking in Human Beings", which are targeted at senior police officers who are responsible for prosecution services, countering trafficking cases or organized crime cases, members of lecturing staff in police training and development units, heads of police forces or government officials at Ministerial level, who deal with questions of human trafficking.

As part of the EU AGIS programme the GNIB held a conference in Dublin in November 2005 titled: "Forum to Improve Best Practice in the Prevention, Detection, & Investigation of Trafficking in Human Beings and Examine Best Practice in Fighting and preventing Corruption of Public Figures in the Administration of Immigration Regulations." The conference was funded by the European Commission (Directorate General Justice and Home Affairs) and the Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform and was attended by representatives from a number of other EU Member States.

Earlier this month, Operation Pentameter II was launched in London. This is a coordinated campaign of police activity to tackle the trafficking in human beings for sexual exploitation within Ireland and the UK. An Garda Síochána and Department officials are working with their British counterparts to ensure that the whole common travel area becomes a hostile environment for those who intend to engage in this nefarious crime. I hope to be in a position to announce further international co-operation on a wider European scale in the coming weeks.

In addition, legislation providing for the criminalisation of trafficking in persons for the purpose of exploitation is expected to be published in the very near future. This legislation will criminalise trafficking in human beings as provided for in EU Council Framework Decision on combating trafficking in persons. The criminal law provisions in other international instruments, including the Council of Europe Convention on action against trafficking in human beings, are also being taken into account in the legislation.

I can also inform the Deputy that it is my intention to make further announcements in relation to the issue of human trafficking later this week.

Garda Deployment.

Willie Penrose

Question:

123 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the 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. [22498/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

On 30th June 2007 (the latest date for which Community Policing figures are readily available), the total personnel strength of An Garda Síochána was 13,361. The total personnel strength attached to Community Policing at that time was 565. This represents a percentage of 4.22% of the total strength of the Force.

Of course community policing involves more than a single unit within An Garda Síochána. All Gardaí have a role to play in addressing community policing issues. I agree with the view of the Garda Inspectorate, expressed in its most recent report, that community policing is a fundamental policing philosophy and that there is a strong foundation of it in Ireland. I welcome the review of community policing currently underway in the Garda Síochána and I look forward to its outcome.

Garda Management.

Joan Burton

A further Review of the Probation Service was undertaken by the Comptroller and Auditor General in 2002, the Review entitled "Comptroller and Auditor General Report on Value for Money Examination of the Probation Service" was published in 2004. Following the publication of the Report a small working group involving Departmental and Probation officials was set up to build on existing work including the Expert Group Report and the Value for Money audit of the Service.

In September, 2005, following an open competition, a new Director was appointed to the Probation Service. To support the Director and strengthen the management of the Service, a new senior management structure for the Service has been put in place comprising three Deputy Directors and 2 Assistant Deputy Directors.

The Probation Service Strategy Statement and Work Plan of Strategic Actions 2006-2007, set out the strategic goals of the Service for the period which include:

Creating new management structures;

Carrying out an administrative review of the Service and making appropriate organisational and resourcing changes as required;

Developing a strategic plan for the Young Person's Probation; and

Maximising the potential benefit of Community Service to local communities.

In keeping with the objectives of the Strategy Statement:

An administrative review of the Service commenced in March, 2007 and, I am advised that this is now nearing completion. The main focus of this review is to look at the administrative structure of the Service nationally. The findings of that report will inform decisions regarding any administrative change deemed necessary.

A dedicated Young Persons Probation Division (YPP) was recently established within the Probation Service which has responsibility for the full implementation of the sections of the Children Act, 2001 relating to the Probation Service.

An external consultant was also recently appointed to conduct a review of the Community Service Scheme. I expect the finding of that Review to be presented to me by mid 2008.

In addition to the foregoing, I can also advise the Deputy that a Review of the Systems of Internal Financial Control in the Probation Service was completed in June, 2007. This Report made a recommendation, inter alia, on the establishment of a dedicated financial management unit within the Probation Service. All recommendations of that Report are currently being implemented and a professional accountant will be appointed very shortly to head up the Financial Management Unit.

I am also pleased to inform the Deputy that on foot of a Government Decision dated 18 April, 2007, approving a "Juvenile Justice and Child Protection Package", provided for 71 additional professional and administrative posts for the Probation Service. The recruitment of these additional staff is ongoing.

I am confident that the Probation Service has benefited from the aforementioned comprehensive reviews and it now has the necessary resources to carry out its work in an effective and efficient manner under the guidance of its senior management team.

Anti-Social Behaviour.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

128 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the 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. [22494/07]

Brian Hayes

Question:

450 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of anti-social behaviour orders that have been issued by An Garda Síochána in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22436/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 128 and 450 together.

Part 11 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, which provides for civil proceedings in relation to anti-social behaviour by adults, was commenced on 1 January, 2007. Part 13 of the Act relating to anti-social behaviour by children was commenced on 1 March, 2007. These provisions set out an incremental procedure for addressing anti-social behaviour by adults and children. With regard to children, these range from a warning from a member of An Garda Síochána, to a good behaviour contract involving the child and his or her parents or guardian, to referral to the Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme and to the making of a behaviour order by the Children Court.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that 202 behaviour warnings have issued to adults up to 31 August, 2007 and 59 behaviour warnings issued to children in the same period. There was one good behaviour contract issued to a child in this period.

No anti-social behaviour orders have been issued by the courts up to 31 August, 2007.

Some inaccurate conclusions have been drawn from the fact no ASBOs have yet been applied for by the Garda authorities. The regime involves a series of procedures including behaviour warnings and, in the case of children, good behaviour contracts. In setting up the regime, the intention was that these warnings or good behaviour contracts would themselves address the problem behaviour. It is only if they fail that an ASBO will be applied. In any case, it inevitably takes time to reach the stage where an ASBO itself might be sought. Where these do not succeed in altering a person's behaviour, they will culminate in ASBOs being sought by the Garda authorities from the courts.

Criminal Proceedings.

Damien English

Question:

129 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the concept of allowing the Director of Public Prosecutions or the prosecutor make oral submissions during a court sentencing hearing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22558/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Deputy will be aware that the Agreed Programme for Government contains a commitment to allow the Director of Public Prosecutions to make submissions at the sentencing stage in criminal cases. In considering how to proceed with this issue, we are fortunate to have the Report of the Review Group on the Balance in the Criminal Law, which was chaired by Dr Gerard Hogan, SC and which was published in March this year. The question of prosecution submissions was one of the topics considered by the Review Group. At the outset of its considerations, the Group noted the perceived anomaly which arises in the context of the existing right of the prosecution to apply for a review of sentence which the Director of Public Prosecutions believes to be unduly lenient, on foot of section 2 of the Criminal Justice Act 1993. In essence, in reviewing an unduly lenient sentence the prosecuting counsel are called upon at an appeal under section 2 to make a submission in order to influence the sentencing decision. It might appear to some that there is a contradiction in allowing such submissions at the appeal stage but not at the original sentencing stage.

However, this issue is not quite as clear cut as one might think. As the Review Group highlighted in its report, it is incorrect to suggest that under the current regime prosecution counsel have only a limited role in the sentencing decision of the court. At present there is a restriction on delivering an actual sentencing submission to the court. However, prosecuting counsel have ample opportunities to present evidence to the court during the course of the trial that would constitute an aggravating factor in the sentencing decision. Conversely, prosecuting counsel may also challenge evidence presented by the defence side regarding mitigating factors.

Indeed the Director of Public Prosecutions' most recent Guidelines for Prosecutors (June 2006) states that prosecuting counsel have a duty to ensure that the court has before it all available evidence relevant to sentencing, all submissions concerning the impact on the victim in accordance with the provisions of section 5 of the Criminal Justice Act 1993 and all relevant evidence relating to the accused's background, circumstances and previous convictions.

The Review Group examined five options on the role of the prosecutor in the sentencing decision of the court. These options are as follows:

1.A purely declaratory provision which restates the current position, permitting the prosecutor to adduce and challenge evidence at the sentencing stage and to give information to the court regarding sentencing precedents at the request of the court.

2.A slightly more expanded version of option 1 which would allow the prosecutor to also volunteer information regarding sentencing precedents whether this was requested by the court or not.

3.The prosecutor would be permitted to volunteer previous precedents and to make submissions to the court as to the aggravating factors, but without advocating a particular sentence or range of sentences.

4.The prosecutor would advocate a range of sentences.

5.This envisages a completely permissive regime whereby the prosecutor would be allowed to advocate a particular sentence.

Option 1 reflects the position as stated in the DPP's Guidelines for Prosecutors while Option 5 represents the other end of the spectrum whereby prosecuting counsel would advocate a defined sentence.

The Review Group favoured option 2, to allow the prosecutor to volunteer information regarding sentencing precedents whether requested or not by the court. The Group also recommended that option 3 be kept under review by my Department in consultation with the DPP.

Reflecting the complexity of the issues involved, the Group stressed the need for the availability of greater information regarding sentencing. To this end, the report expressed support for the developments being carried out by the Irish Sentencing Information System project under the chairmanship of Ms Justice Susan Denham of the Supreme Court. The Group was also clearly of the view that there would be some benefit from the Court of Criminal Appeal or the Supreme Court developing guideline judgements, where a number of appeals concerning the same offence would be heard together and a general guideline judgement given, indicating the approximate median on the scale of severity and the factors that might influence an upward or downward adjustment.

The issue of sentencing submissions by prosecuting counsel is complex and will require further careful consideration and consultation by me in advance of any legislative action.

National Drugs Strategy.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

130 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will take steps or raise the matter with the Garda Commissioner in an effort to ensure that the resources available to national and local drugs units are doubled, in particular, in view of the UN reported 34% increase in opium production in Afghanistan in 2007 and the resulting increase in heroin flowing into the market here and the head of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction’s further confirmation that more Europeans are using cocaine. [22517/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

As the Deputy points, out the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime Annual Drug Report 2007 identifies that the level of heroin production in Afghanistan significantly increased in 2006 and that the consumption of cocaine grew in Europe last year.

The Government views with concern such global developments and any potential rise in the level of any illegal drugs being trafficked into this country. The drugs situation is dynamic and ever changing and we must ensure that our policies are flexible to meet those changes.

I assure the Deputy that An Garda Síochána will continue to direct its drug law enforcement activities in a focused way through intelligence driven operations at national, regional, divisional and district level.

Underpinning this approach, An Garda Síochána 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; and

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

The Garda National Drugs Unit co-ordinates large scale operations against drug dealing-trafficking and unit personnel either investigate such cases themselves or assist local investigation teams. Additional assistance is also available from other specialised Garda support units, such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Bureau of Fraud Investigation and the Criminal Assets Bureau. A joint Garda National Drugs Unit-Criminal Assets Bureau initiative is in place which targets local dealers. Furthermore, the detection and prevention of drug related crime is, of course, a matter for all members of An Garda Síochána.

Significant drug seizures, including the considerable amounts of heroin and cocaine continuing to be seized in recent times, have been made as a result of these operations. The operations, which are ongoing, continue to dismantle drug trafficking networks and have led to the arrest in recent times of major criminals both based here and abroad who are involved in the drugs trade.and such measures will continue to be vigorously pursued by An Garda Síochána.

With regard to resources, the extent of resources both in financial and personnel terms, which continues to be made available to An Garda Síochána 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.

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

The assignment of Garda personnel 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. This takes place against the background of the unprecedented expansion of An Garda Síochána which has taken and will continue to take place increasing the overall strength of the Garda to 16,000.

I assure the Deputy that additional Garda resources are coming on stream all the time. These additional human resources will facilitate the Garda Commissioner in the allocation of additional manpower to areas most in need, including areas with a significant drug problem.

In conjunction with this, the Government are ensuring that our law enforcement agencies continue to have a strong legislative platform from which to operate in their work in tackling those involved in such criminal activity. While we already have a strong legislative package in place for tackling drug trafficking, the Criminal Justice Acts 2006 and 2007 provides for further measures which will enhance the powers of the Garda in the investigation and prosecution of drug offences.

Undoubtedly, drug misuse remains one of the most complex social ills faced globally. Our drug law enforcement response is a vital feature of our overall response in addressing the issue but 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, Deputy Pat Carey, 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. Finally, I assure the Deputy that the Government is very clear that there is no room for complacency in our response to the issue of drug misuse. Under my own area of remit, I would stress again that the enforcement of the law relating to drugs continues to be a key element in the Government's policing priorities.

Garda Investigations.

Tony Gregory

Question:

131 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a comprehensive statement on the case of a person (details supplied) and the family’s request for an enquiry. [22155/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The person in question was arrested around midday on 2 June 2005 in relation to the theft of a motor vehicle and taken to Store Street Garda Station, Dublin. He was found hanging in his cell later that afternoon. He was removed to hospital where he died a little more than three months later.

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 deceased person's arrest, detention and removal to hospital. A file in the matter was submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions who issued instructions that no prosecution should ensue. On 13 July of this year an inquest into the death returned a verdict of suicide. The deceased person's family were represented at the Inquest and financial assistance was offered to them by my Department in relation to their associated legal costs. Most recently the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission have informed me that they have decided in the public interest to carry out an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death as provided for in section 102(4) of the Garda Síochána Act 2005.

The capacity for independent investigation in the public interest of such tragic deaths was a key objective in the establishment of the Ombudsman Commission and I believe that the Commission must now be left to carry out its independent investigation as speedily and thoroughly as possible.

Finally, I should also mention that a civil action has been initiated by the deceased person's family and this is currently being dealt with by the Garda Síochána in conjunction with my Department.

Garda Interview Records.

Joe Carey

Question:

132 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he proposes to take to deal with the problem of the free availability of Garda questioning videos resulting in serious intimidation of young persons in particular; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22563/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I would direct the Deputy's attention to section 56 of the Criminal Justice Act 2007 which was commenced on 18 May 2007, which restricts the availability of Garda interview recordings.

Housing Management Companies.

Alan Shatter

Question:

133 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he proposes to publish legislation to govern the operation of property management firms of apartment complexes and other multi unit developments; and his views on whether existing legislation is inadequate to provide to apartment and home owners essential legislation to which they should be entitled. [22162/07]

James Reilly

Question:

191 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals to address the many urgent problems associated with the operation of management companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22161/07]

Darragh O'Brien

Question:

198 Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he expects to introduce much needed legislation to regulate estate management companies. [22297/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 133, 191 and 198 together.

Property management companies are legal entities incorporated under company law and are subject to its provisions. In December last, the Law Reform Commission published a Consultation Paper on Multi-Unit Developments which drew attention to a broad range of issues arising in relation to the governance and operation of such developments, including problems arising from the manner in which company law currently applies to property management companies. The Paper makes it clear that action to address these problems will be required across several policy fields, including company law, consumer protection law and the development of regulatory structures.

In recognition of the cross-cutting nature of many of the issues identified by the Law Reform Commission in its Paper, a high-level interdepartmental committee has been established to assist in the development of a coherent and comprehensive response to the problems arising in this area. A key task of this committee will be to identify the legislative and administrative actions to be taken in response to definitive recommendations for legislative reforms which, following a lengthy consultation process, will be set out in the Law Reform Commission's forthcoming Report on Multi-Unit Developments and to determine a timescale for their implementation. I expect that this Report will be published later this year.

Prison Drug Treatment Services.

Frank Feighan

Question:

134 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the drugs rehabilitation programmes in place in prisons (details supplied); the success rates such programmes have; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22535/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Irish Prison Service continues to work to implement the commitments contained in its Drugs Policy & Strategy, entitled Keeping Drugs Out of Prisons, which was launched last year. Working to fulfil these commitments involves the implementation of stringent measures to prevent drugs from getting into prisons while, at the same time, continuing to invest in services within prisons to reduce the demand for illicit drugs in the prisoner population as well as meeting prisoners' treatment and rehabilitative needs.

Drug rehabilitation programmes for prisoners involve a significant multidimensional input by a diverse range of general and specialist services provided both by the Irish Prison Service and visiting statutory and non-statutory organisations. Measures to reduce the demand for drugs within the prison system include education, treatment and rehabilitation of drug addicted offenders. These programmes and interventions are delivered on an individual and co-ordinated basis by the Prison Healthcare Teams, Psychology Service, Probation Service, Prison Education Service and prison officers. Particular initiatives put in place include Drug Free Areas, Drug Misuse Awareness Programmes, Support Programmes and appropriate health interventions, Substitution Therapies, Vaccination Programmes and treatment for viral illnesses. In addition, the Irish Prison Service provides prisoners with a range of opportunities to encourage them to aspire to a substance-free lifestyle, before and after release, thereby reducing demand for illicit substances. An important aim of the new Policy & Strategy is the operation of all treatment programmes within a coherent policy framework, understood and supported by all agencies involved in drug treatment within the prison system, with the ultimate aim being to provide access to drug treatment and rehabilitation programmes for all prisoners who wish to avail of them.

The Policy and Strategy outlines the range of treatment services that the Irish Prison Service seeks to make available throughout the prisons estates; these are:

Assessment and Throughcare Planning.

Information, education and awareness programmes, etc.

Opiate replacement therapies (where clinically indicated).

Detox, maintenance and reduction programmes.

Symptomatic treatment options.

Support services, to include mental health.

Supported Voluntary Drug Testing Units.

Motivational interventions.

Extended treatment options will be provided in specific sites based on assessed risk or needs of the prison population there. These will include:

Evidence informed programmes regarding drug misuse and offending behaviour.

Cognitive Behavioural Treatment programmes.

12 Step programmes.

Appropriate peer support programmes.

In line with community provision many of these services are already available in prisons situated in the Dublin region but are not available in prisons situated outside of the Dublin region. Initial focus in enhancing the range and quality of treatment services available has been on those prisons which are assessed as having the greatest client need; this has involved the recruitment of nurses, a psychologist focusing on addictions and prison officers.

The most significant development has been the awarding of a contract for the provision of addiction counselling services for all prisons in the country to Merchants Quay Ireland, a leading drug treatment provider. This contract is currently being rolled out, and all prisoners wherever they may be imprisoned will have access to addiction counselling services by the end of this year.

Finally, in relation to the success of treatment services, in line with evidence from community treatment services there is clear evidence that where treatment structures are adequately and appropriately resourced, drug use, particularly unsafe use involving injection, decreases. Reports from within the prisons would confirm that the advent and development of substitution based programmes within the prison system has significantly decreased illicit drug use. Any resources devoted to drug treatment are far outweighed by the various personal (lower health risk, improved family and social function, etc.) and community (reduced street crime associated with drug use, lower incidence of potentially costly communicable diseases) benefits arising. In view of the particular difficulties associated with the prisoner population (e.g. social exclusion and isolation, multiple social and health problems, long histories of polysubstance abuse, etc.) the resources applied in prisons should garner a disproportionate health and social benefit.

The Probation Service, in partnership with the IPS and other agencies, provides a range of individual and group programmes in prisons to address rehabilitation and resettlement issues including those related to drug misuse. The Department through the Probation Service also provide funding to a number of Community-based Organisations which enter prisons to support and motivate prisoners in addressing their substance misuse.

The main drug rehabilitation programme, which has been in operation since 1996, is operated in Mountjoy Prison complex. That programme includes drug awareness and methadone support modules.

Eleven programmes have been facilitated in the Mountjoy complex since the beginning of 2006. Of the 99 prisoners who participated in these programmes, 43 graduated (completed successfully) and 4 remain on the current programme.

Sexual Offences.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

135 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he has taken in response to calls for an EU-wide sex offenders database; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22554/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

At its meeting on 12-13 June, 2007 the Council of the European Union reached an agreement on a general approach on a proposal for a Council Framework Decision on the organisation and content of the exchange of information extracted from criminal records between Member States. Discussions are ongoing with a view to formal adoption of the Framework Decision as soon as possible. This agreement follows the adoption in 2005 by the Council of a Decision on the exchange of information extracted from the criminal record, which supplements the relevant provisions of the Council of Europe 1959 European Convention on Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters.

On 27 November, 2006 a Memorandum of Understanding on information sharing arrangements between Ireland and the UK relating to sex offenders was signed.

The MOU was negotiated between my Department and the Home Office, with input from the Northern Ireland Office. It relates to information about persons travelling between Ireland and the UK and who are subject to sex offender notification requirements in their own jurisdiction. This covers sex offenders travelling between any of the legal jurisdictions in these islands. The rationale for the Memorandum is that such information will be shared between police forces for the purposes of protecting the public from the risks presented by sex offenders — whether paedophile or otherwise — and investigating serious sexual offences. The transmission of any information necessary to achieve these purposes is covered.

As a result of the MOU, the exchange of such information between the Garda Síochána and British police forces, which of course has already been taking place for some time, is now being put on a formal footing. The information will now be shared as a matter of course.

This Memorandum of Understanding is another example of the close relationship between Ireland and the UK and in particular between the two parts of this island. It is also the most recent example of the benefits which accrue to both sides through co-operation and co-ordination in the areas of criminal justice and law enforcement.

As the MOU provides, its use and effectiveness will be kept under review, and I am confident that full use will be made of its potential by the police forces of all our jurisdictions.

A Registered Sex Offender Advisory Group has been established consisting of representatives of An Garda Síochána, the Police Service of Northern Ireland, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Northern Ireland Office. As part of its work, this Group evaluates the potential for sharing information, examining the registration criteria in both jurisdictions for sex offenders and identifying areas for further co-operation.

Persons who have been convicted of sex offences abroad who, at the time of the conviction or thereafter, become resident for the qualifying period in this jurisdiction are subject to the provisions of the Sex Offenders Act 2001, where there is comparability between the offence to which the foreign conviction applies and offences covered by the Act. It is not necessary for the offence or the conviction to occur after the coming into force of the Act.

The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Investigation Unit of An Garda Síochána monitor and manage the notification provisions as they apply to those subject to them.

The provisions of the Sex Offenders Act 2001 are kept under constant review by my Department with a view to ensuring the Act is operating in an efficient and effective manner.

Question No. 136 answered with QuestionNo. 120.

Crime Levels.

Willie Penrose

Question:

137 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the 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. [22497/07]

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

186 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the 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. [22496/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 186 together.

The following table shows the number of murders recorded, detected, proceedings commenced and convictions which involved the use of a firearm for the years 1998 to 2006 and in 2007.

The number of murders recorded, detected, proceedings commenced and convictions in which a firearm was used for the years 1998 to 2006 and in 2007 up to 3 October
Year	Recorded	Detected	Proceeding Commenced	Convictions
2007 (to 3 October)	13	3	1	0
2006	27	10	5	0
2005	21	4	2	2
2004	9	8	5	4
2003	20	11	4	2
2002	10	5	4	3
2001	9	6	2	1
2000	12	7	6	2
1999	12	7	7	5
1998	4	3	2	1

Figures for 2007 are provisional, operational and liable to change.

All incidents of murder 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 by the Gardaí in the investigation process.

Operation Anvil is central to the strategy of the Garda Síochána in combating serious crime and in particular murder. Operation Anvil continues to provide successes in this area. Figures which I received from the Garda Commissioner recently show that from its beginning in May 2005 to 9 September last, 768 firearms have been recovered, 37,437 searches for drugs have taken place and over 70,000 checkpoints established. These figures make clear the unrelenting nature of the activity being undertaken by the Garda Síochána to deal with these crimes.

In addition the Organised Crime Unit at the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation has been strengthened to 70 persons and is tasked with targeting organised criminals and disrupting criminal networks by providing armed assistance during planned operations and searches against those persons suspected of being involved in organised criminal activities.

A package of crime investigation initiatives was recently launched by senior Garda management. These include the establishment of a crime training faculty at the Garda College, Templemore to provide a professional, comprehensive training programme for those charged with the management of serious crime investigations. Senior Investigating Officers will also be appointed. These will be key personnel who will take charge of serious crime investigations. Incident Room Co-ordinators will manage serious crime investigation incident rooms, and specialist victim interviewers will interview persons under 14 years of age or with special needs who are victims of sexual crime.

Additional Divisional Detective Inspectors will be appointed and will be allocated on the basis of one per District in the Dublin Metropolitan Region and one per Division outside the DMR. The appointments of Regional Detective Superintendents, who will be responsible for the investigation of serious crime, were also announced. Pre-screening and competency based interviewing have been commenced as part of the selection process for Detective Gardaí and Sergeants. This will enhance best practice and procedures in the investigation of serious crime.

A Major Investigation Management System will also be developed to provide a PULSE based management system for all serious investigations.

As a result of the enactment of the Criminal Justice Act 2007 the Garda Síochána are in a much better position to ensure that those involved in gun crime will be made accountable for their actions. The Act intensifies further the fight against gangland activity by:

making it more difficult to get bail in drug trafficking, firearms and other serious cases;

having tighter controls to monitor post-release activity by introducing monitoring orders and protection of persons orders;

having enhanced penalties for those who reoffend within 7 years of a previous offence;

giving further guidance on the application of mandatory minimum sentences in cases of drug trafficking and firearm offences, while fully respecting the discretion and independence of the judiciary;

providing for indefinite retention of fingerprint samples;

extending detention periods in the case of certain very serious offences; and updating the law on the right to silence.

Yesterday I met senior Garda management who briefed me on ongoing intensive operations to counteract the menace of gun crime, including Operation Anvil and CAB's efforts against drug dealers. I assured the Commissioner that unprecedented resources would continue to be provided to support them in their efforts. I wish to reiterate my call for all members of the community to support An Garda Síochána in their efforts to bring those responsible for these crimes to justice.

Garda Recruitment.

Joe McHugh

Question:

138 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will assign crime analysts to the six Garda regions as recommended by the Garda Inspectorate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22538/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Three senior analysts were recently recruited forming the management team for the Garda Síochána Analysis Service (G.S.A.S.). A substantial body of work is underway in order to select suitable staff; develop training needs; and service all of the information technology and infrastructural requirements of the analysis function. The structure of the analysis function and deployment of analysts throughout the organisation has yet to be finalised. However, the optimum use of the analysis function will be made in order to deliver the maximum possible benefit to An Garda Siochana in fulfilling all its responsibilities.

Crime Levels.

Deirdre Clune

Question:

139 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps that have been taken by his Department to tackle gun crime following the recent shooting of a member of An Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22549/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The reprehensible gun attack on Garda Paul Sherlock last week was a stark reminder of the dangers facing members of the Garda Síochána as they go about their daily task of protecting us all. An extensive investigation team has been assembled comprising Gardaí attached to the DMR North Central Garda Division and the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, supported by members from Crime and Security Section, Garda Headquarters. This investigation is progressing and a number of arrests have been made in the case.

Operation Anvil is central to the strategy of the Garda Síochána in combating serious crime and in particular murder. Operation Anvil continues to provide successes in this area. Figures which I received from the Garda Commissioner recently show that from its beginning in May 2005 to 9 September last, 768 firearms have been recovered, 37,437 searches for drugs have taken place and over 70,000 checkpoints established. These figures make clear the unrelenting nature of the activity being undertaken by the Garda Síochána to deal with these crimes.

In addition the Organised Crime Unit at the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation has been strengthened to 70 persons and is tasked with targeting organised criminals and disrupting criminal networks by providing armed assistance during planned operations and searches against those persons suspected of being involved in organised criminal activities.

A package of crime investigation initiatives was recently launched by senior Garda management. These include the establishment of a crime training faculty at the Garda College, Templemore to provide a professional, comprehensive training programme for those charged with the management of serious crime investigations. Senior Investigating Officers will also be appointed. These will be key personnel who will take charge of serious crime investigations. Incident Room Co-ordinators will manage serious crime investigation incident rooms, and specialist victim interviewers will interview persons under 14 years of age or with special needs who are victims of sexual crime.

Additional Divisional Detective Inspectors will be appointed and will be allocated on the basis one per District in the Dublin Metropolitan Region and one per Division outside the DMR. Regional Detective Superintendents will be responsible for the investigation of serious crime were also announced. Pre-screening and competency based interviewing have been commenced as part of the selection process for Detective Gardaí and Sergeants. This will enhance best practice and procedures in the investigation of serious crime.

A Major Investigation Management System will also be developed to provide a PULSE based management system for all serious investigations.

As a result of the enactment of the Criminal Justice Act 2007 the Garda Síochána are in a much better position to ensure that those involved in gun crime will be made accountable for their actions. The Act intensifies further the fight against gangland activity by:

making it more difficult to get bail in drug trafficking, firearms and other serious cases;

having tighter controls to monitor post-release activity by introducing monitoring orders and protection of persons orders;

having enhanced penalties for those who reoffend within 7 years of a previous offence;

giving further guidance on the application of mandatory minimum sentences in cases of drug trafficking and firearm offences, while fully respecting the discretion and independence of the judiciary;

providing for indefinite retention of fingerprint samples;

extending detention periods in the case of certain very serious offences; and

updating the law on the right to silence.

Garda Complaints Board.

Thomas P. Broughan

Question:

140 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is concerned regarding the views expressed by the chairman of the Garda Complaints Board, in his final report, regarding what he described at the total inability of the Gardaí to apologise for mistakes and the lack of action by the Garda Commissioner in regard to minor breaches of discipline referred to him; the action being taken to deal with this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22479/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Siochana Complaints Board Annual Report for the year 2006 has been considered by the Garda Commissioner and his senior management team and its recommendations will inform policy in the relevant areas.

The Deputy raises two separate issues one of which relates to an alleged lack of action on the part of the Commissioner in relation to possible minor breaches of the Garda discipline regulations brought to his attention under the procedures set out in section 7(4)of the Garda Síochána (Complaints) Act 1986.

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that on receipt of a referral under section 7(4) the Commissioner considers himself legally obliged to cause a review of the investigation to be undertaken including affording the member concerned an opportunity to make further submissions — whether or not submissions had been made to the Complaints Board as part of its investigation. At the end of the process the Commissioner makes a final determination on whether there has been a breach of discipline. Where such a breach has occurred it is dealt with by way of advice, admonition or warning.

Of 63 such cases referred to the Commissioner in 2006 disciplinary action was taken in 35 cases, in 20 cases the Commissioner decided that no breach of discipline had occurred and 8 cases were outstanding at the end of the year.

The second issue raised by the Complaints Board relates to an alleged inability on the part of members of the Garda Síochána to apologise for mistakes. Where the incident is of a minor nature there is provision under the Garda Síochána (Complaints) Act 1986 (and indeed analogous provisions of the Garda Síochána Act 2005) for informal resolution. This avenue can be availed of to resolve disputes in some instances.

However it is worth noting that the Morris Tribunal expressed the view that Garda disciplinary procedures which operated prior to 1 June of this year were characterised by an "overlay of legal formalism". The new Garda disciplinary regulations will address that issue.

More generally, I accept of course that apologies should be made where appropriate, but equally the Garda Síochána as an organisation must be guided in such matters by its legal advisers. Apologies can be made provided such an apology does not affect future legal proceedings. Where such proceedings are taken an apology or statement of regret can affect the extent to which the State is liable in any possible settlement of the case, and this must be taken into account.

Garda Recruitment.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

141 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action that has been taken by his Department to ensure that An Garda Síochána attracts more recruits from ethnic minorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22545/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

In 2005 the Garda Síochána Admissions and Appointments Regulations 1988 were amended to remove the requirement to hold a qualification in both Irish and English in the Leaving Certificate or equivalent and was replaced with a requirement to hold a qualification in two languages, at least one of which must be Irish or English.

In addition the amendment provided that entry to An Garda Síochána would be open to:

(i)nationals of an EU Member State, an EEA State or the Swiss Confederation and

(ii)nationals of any other State who are lawfully present in Ireland and have a period of five years legal residence in Ireland.

Ethnic communities have been proactively targeted in recent recruitment campaigns and equally so in the latest recruitment campaign which began last month. Details of this campaign can be found at www.garda.ie or www.publicjobs.ie

Question No. 142 answered with QuestionNo. 122.

Question No. 143 answered with QuestionNo. 111.

Garda Inspectorate Reports.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

144 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement on the third report of the Garda Inspectorate detailing a time-frame for the implementation of its key recommendations. [22513/07]

154.Deputy Joe Costello asked ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views in the report of the Garda Inspectorate, Policing in Ireland, Looking Forward, published on 26 September 2007; his further views on the recommendations of the report, particularly the call for an increase in the size of the transport fleet and the number of marked vehicles; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 144 and 154 together.

I welcome the third report of the Garda Inspectorate entitled, "Policing in Ireland — Looking Forward". It is a comprehensive examination of administration and operation of the Garda Síochána and I would like to record my gratitude to the Chief Inspector Kathleen O'Toole and her colleagues Bob Olson and Gwen Boniface for their work. As the members of the House know the Garda Síochána has been undergoing a programme of quite fundamental change in recent years. Many of the changes were brought about by the Garda Síochána Acts 2005 to 2007 and these involved fundamental structural changes such as the establishment of the Garda Ombudsman Commission and the Inspectorate; the transfer of responsibility to the Commissioner for matters such as expenditure and the employment of civilians; and the specification in statute of the role of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in setting the broad strategic direction of the Force. Now that the legislative environment has been reshaped, the focus for the programme of change and modernisation is moving to the internal administration and operation of the Garda Síochána. This is where the Garda Inspectorate has a key role in ensuring that the resources of the Garda Síochána are used as efficiently and effectively as possible. It is my role as Minister and that of my Department to support the Garda Síochána in achieving that goal of continued efficient and effective policing. The Inspectorate in its report has made a number of recommendations covering a broad range of issues ranging from the devolution of greater autonomy to regional Assistant Commissioners to the need to review recruit training. The Inspectorate has not suggested deadlines for the implementation of all its recommendations and understandably so. Some of the recommendations are already being implemented while others such as a review of recruit training will require further work on the part of the Inspectorate in the first instance. I expect to see early implementation of the Inspectorate's recommendations and my Department with the assistance of the Inspectorate will monitor their implementation.

The remit of the Inspectorate under the Garda Síochána Acts 2005 to 2007 is to ensure that the resources available to An Garda Síochána are used so as to achieve and maintain the highest levels of efficiency and effectiveness both in its operation and administration when compared against the best practices and standards of comparable police forces. As regards the Garda transport fleet the Inspectorate has called for a more strategic approach to transport policy to ensure that it meets the business needs of the Force. The Inspectorate has said it will bring forward proposals to benchmark Garda transport to determine a fleet size and composition that will best support policing needs and optimise visibility in the community. I look forward to receiving those proposals. As the Inspectorate has acknowledged the Garda fleet is 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 fleet). Further investment is taking place this year (including the purchase of additional motorbikes which will make a significant contribution to traffic law enforcement).

Question No. 145 answered with QuestionNo. 116.

Garda Investigations.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

146 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the investigation that has been held into the release in error of a prisoner serving a six year sentence in mistake for another prisoner of the same name; the outcome of such investigation; if changes have been introduced to procedures to ensure that a similar error is not made in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22505/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The incident referred to by the Deputy occurred in Mountjoy Prison in June, 2007. This prisoner was returned to custody by Gardaí at the end of August 2007. His release date has been adjusted accordingly.

Year	Expenditure
	€m
2003	37.353
2004	34.140
2005	40.208
2006	42.093

Under the 1962 Act, the courts, through the judiciary, are responsible for the granting of legal aid. An applicant for legal aid must establish to the satisfaction of the court that his/her means are insufficient to enable him/her to pay for legal representation for him/herself. The court must also be satisfied that, by reason of the "gravity of the charge" or "exceptional circumstances", it is essential in the interests of justice that the applicant should have legal aid. I have no function in these matters which are determined by the judiciary. The provision of information on the courts system such as the number of persons refused legal aid certificates is a function of the Courts Service under the Courts Service Act 1998.

The Deputy may wish to note that, under the 1962 Act, an applicant for free legal aid may be required by the court to complete a statement of means. It is an offence for an applicant to knowingly make a false statement or conceal a material fact for the purpose of obtaining legal aid. This is currently under review in my Department.

Prison Education Service.

Billy Timmins

Question:

150 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the education centre for young offenders at Mountjoy was opened; the persons who work at same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22579/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I take it the Deputy is referring to the Special School in St Patrick's Institution, which is located in the Mountjoy Complex, and was opened on 14 April 2007.

All staff are trained in Adolescent Behaviour Management before they commence working in this new unit. The staffing levels are 13 prison staff Monday to Friday and 9 prison staff at weekends. Prison staff comprise prison officers performing general security duties, prison officers trained as NCEF Fitness Instructors and Assistant Industrial Supervisors providing instruction in both Home Economics and Industrial Skills.

There are also between 2 and 4 teachers operating in the new school during any teaching period. General education subjects include English, Irish, Maths, History and Geography, Arts & Crafts, and Computer Skills. Fitness and exercise programmes, and Domestic Science including hygiene and cooking skills programmes are also provided. Programmes such as alcohol awareness and drug awareness courses are also run regularly.

Support services are provided by 2 Probation Officers and Psychology, Medical and Chaplaincy Services. These personnel are available to inmates on a daily basis.

All inmates are given a timetable for their activities and participation in the activities is actively encouraged. Enhanced regimes such as communal dining, recreational games, sports hall and additional visits are provided.

A typical day consists of school during the morning and afternoon, or alternatively vocational workshop training. Recreation is provided in the evening. At weekends sports competitions, football tournaments, etc., are provided during daytime and recreation is provided in the evening.

National Drugs Strategy.

John O'Mahony

Question:

151 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to set up a permanent drugs unit at Ireland West Airport, Knock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22159/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Customs Service of the Office of the Revenue Commissioners which has primary responsibility for the prevention, detection, interception and seizure of controlled drugs at importation.

The Customs Service has particular responsibility for implementing import controls at points of entry to the State, including airports.

I have been informed by the Customs authorities that in 2007, the Revenue Commissioners completed an extensive review of customs controls at all licensed aerodromes including Knock.

Following on the review and with increased flights from EU and non-EU countries into Knock, the level of customs control has been increased and has been applied on a risk-analysis basis. This is based on analysis and evaluation of general seizure trends, traffic frequency, route and similar risk indicators.

These controls have included over sixty visits to Ireland West Airport, Knock since the start of 2007 by a drugs detector dog team based in Sligo. Extra staff have also been assigned to the area which will further assist in increasing drugs detection at the airport.

Attendance by staff is selective and targeted and covers the full range of flight times and these are kept under constant review to take particular account of emerging smuggling trends and any traffic increase at the airport.

In relation to Garda strategies for dealing with drug offences, such strategies 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, conducting targeted operations on criminal networks based on intelligence gathered and working in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies within and outside the jurisdiction to address the national as well as international aspects of drug trafficking and distribution. These strategies continue to result in operational successes as evidenced by the ongoing levels of drugs seized by the Garda.

The trafficking and distribution of all illicit drugs at local, national and international level is constantly monitored by the Garda.

There continues to be excellent co-operation between the Garda and the Customs and Excise service under the terms of the memorandum of understanding in place between both agencies in the proactive investigation of persons suspected to be involved in international drug trafficking and ongoing liaison with various law enforcement agencies throughout Europe through Europol and Interpol.

Human Trafficking.

Simon Coveney

Question:

152 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the action the Gardaí will be taking as a result of the announcement that Great Britain and Ireland are to work together to combat human trafficking through a new operation called Pentameter two. [22610/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Operation Pentameter II was launched in London by the UK Home Secretary on 3 October 2007. Officials from my Department and senior Garda officers have been participating in planning meetings since earlier this year and it is intended that An Garda Síochána will run complementary enforcement operations in this jurisdiction at the same time as the United Kingdom.

The operation which is led by Gloucestershire Constabulary is a proactive and co-ordinated campaign of activity to tackle the trafficking in human beings for sexual exploitation throughout the common travel area of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

The sharing of intelligence between police in both jurisdictions is occurring on a regular basis, and co-operation in investigating suspected cases of human trafficking which impact on both the UK and Ireland is ongoing.

Through Operation Pentameter, a significant level of co-operation has developed, particularly in the area of training, with input from the UK authorities into training courses run by staff from the Garda Training College.

A senior officer at Detective Superintendent rank from An Garda Síochána has been appointed as a liaison officer with Operation Pentameter and he continues to meet with his counterparts in the UK on a regular basis with a view to ensuring that co-ordination of activity between the two jurisdictions in tackling human trafficking is in place.

Furthermore, a member of the Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI) is also currently seconded to the Garda National Immigration Bureau in relation to this issue and this will maximise the co-operation between An Garda Síochána and the PSNI with regard to the problem of human trafficking.

Operation Pentameter II is linked to a larger initiative on human trafficking being undertaken in a number of European countries including Ireland and this larger initiative will be launched in Brussels soon.

The operation is currently in an intelligence-gathering phase. It is my intention that the Criminal Law Bill, which I will publish shortly, will be enacted in time for the enforcement phase of the operation. It would be inappropriate to give any further information that might jeopardise what is now a live policing operation.

While there is no evidence of a substantial human trafficking problem in Ireland, the Government is determined that all necessary actions are taken to ensure that it does not become a significant problem in the future.

Finally, as part of Operation Pentameter 1, a poster campaign was launched in both Ireland and the UK to encourage victims of human trafficking to report their plight to State authorities. The undertaking of additional awareness raising initiatives in both the UK and Ireland during Operation Pentameter II has been discussed and plans are being formulated in this regard.

Crime Prevention.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

153 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the number of organised criminal gangs currently operating here have been located or identified; the extent to which each or all have been associated with drugs, gun crime or murder; if the necessary resources have been made available or are expected to be made available to ensure that such perpetrators are brought to justice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22521/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

An Garda Síochána, as part of its contribution to the Europol Organised Crime Report which was 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.

The analysis carried out for this report 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. While it is difficult therefore to provide an accurate and definitive number for the various groups operating here, gangs operating in this jurisdiction are targeted on an ongoing basis and profiles regarding the personnel of such groups are continually updated. Their membership, operating methods, criminal interests and financial assets are likewise proactively targeted.

Intelligence-led operations, primarily undertaken by specialist units of An Garda Síochána, under the remit of the Assistant Commissioner, National Support Services, including the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Garda National Drugs Unit, and the Organised Crime Unit are regularly undertaken, targeting those suspected of being involved in organised crime.

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 to use intelligence-led operations against selected targets to combat the criminal activities of these groups.

In relation to the resources available to the Gardai, the Deputy will be aware that An Garda Síochána has never been better resourced than it is now. The personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána as on 31 August 2007, was 13,288.

As the Deputy will also know, there is an unprecedented expansion of An Garda Síochána currently taking place which is increasing the overall strength of the Gardaí to 16,000.

The Garda budget now stands at €1.44 billion; this compares to just over €0.9 billion five years ago. Garda overtime this year will total about €140 million; this compares to €66 million five years ago. The Garda fleet is undergoing major modernisation. Last year €24.7 million was used to purchase 1,378 vehicles for the Force, renewing over half the entire fleet.

The National Development Plan provides €260 million over the next five years for Garda stations and other accommodation. This level of resources translates into tangible improvements with increased and improved levels of policing on the ground.

Finally, I repeat the assurance that I gave to the House last week during the lengthy debate on crime that it is my intention to continue to prioritise areas such as gun crime, organised crime and drugs, and public order.

Question No. 154 answered with QuestionNo. 144.

Illegal Immigrants.

Mary Upton

Question:

155 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the Government has decided to opt out, along with the UK, from a new EU directive which proposes to make it a criminal offence for employers to employ illegal migrants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22510/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Treaty of Amsterdam which came into force on 1 May, 1999, added to the EC Treaty a new Title IV which deals with measures in the area of visas, immigration and other policies related to free movement of persons. The proposal in question is subject to Title IV of the Treaty, the application of which to Ireland is subject to the provisions of the Protocol on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland annexed to the Treaties.

It is not correct to say that Ireland has decided to "opt-out" of this proposed Directive. Under the Protocol Ireland has three months from the date a proposal is presented to Council to notify our intention to take part in the adoption and the application of such a measure. Ireland may also accept a measure any time after it has been adopted. While Ireland did not within the initial 3 months exercise its option the matter remains open.

Ireland continues to participate actively in the current discussions on the proposal at European level and my Department, in conjunction with other relevant Departments, is currently examining the issues raised by the proposal. The question of Ireland's participation in this measure will be determined following adoption of the Directive and Ireland's participation would require Oireachtas approval at that stage.

Ireland exercises its option to participate in Title IV measures to the maximum extent compatible with the maintenance of the Common Travel Area with the United Kingdom. Any proposals arising under Title IV are considered on their own merits.

Prison Staff.

Emmet Stagg

Question:

156 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a group of senior prisoner officers are under threat from criminal gangs as reported; the steps being taken to ensure the safety and security of prisoner officers under such threat; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22506/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

For obvious security reasons, I am not in a position to comment on the particular report referred to by the Deputy. However, I can confirm that certain staff were recently rendered appropriate assistance in relation to security matters. The Deputy will understand that I am not willing to elaborate at this time on the specifics of any threats that may have been made.

Garda Investigations.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

157 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Gardaí have concluded their 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 a report (details supplied); if a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22489/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Director of Public Prosecutions has directed a prosecution in this matter and a person is currently before the Courts charged with offences contrary to sections 37 and 50 of the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004.

Proposed Legislation.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

158 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the long promised Judicial Council Bill is expected to be published; the consultation he has had with members of the judiciary regarding the contents of the Bill; his views, in view of a recent case, that there is still no procedure for dealing with breaches of conduct by judges apart from the impeachment process provided for under the constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22485/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Work on the Scheme of a Judicial Council Bill to build on the report of the Committee on Judicial Conduct and Ethics is currently under way in my Department.

That Report recognised the need for a procedure for dealing with complaints of judicial misconduct which, while serious in itself, might not warrant the ultimate sanction of impeachment by the Oireachtas.

Consultations on the proposed Bill have, as is usual in the development of any legislative proposals, taken place with the Office of the Attorney General. It was also considered prudent, given the nature of the subject, to consult with the Chief Justice. While some preliminary views were received, the Chief Justice requested an opportunity to offer further views at a later stage. I await the final observations of the Chief Justice.

Garda Reserve.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

159 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of the Garda Reserve recruited to date; the stations to which they have been allocated; the number of applicants for the reserve currently in training; when he expects that the full complement of 1,500 will be in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22493/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The total personnel strength of the Garda Reserve including trainees is 248. A total of 113 members are fully attested.

The 113 attested members are attached to the following Stations:Dublin Metropolitan Region Stations:

DMR SOUTH CENTRAL DIVISION — Pearse St, Kevin Street and Donnybrook.

DMR NORTH CENTRAL DIVISION — Store St, Bridewell and Fitzgibbon Street.

DMR WEST DIVISION — Clondalkin, Finglas, Lucan and Blanchardstown.

DMR NORTH DIVISION — Santry, Raheny, Swords, Clontarf and Coolock.

DMR SOUTH DIVISION — Crumlin, Sundrive Road, Rathmines and Terenure.

DMR EAST DIVISION — Bray, Dun Laoghaire and Blackrock.

STATIONS OUTSIDE DMR — Anglesea Street, Cork, Sligo, Galway, Henry Street, Limerick, Ennis, Clare, Tralee, Kerry, Waterford.

The recruitment of members to the Garda Reserve is ongoing with intakes going into the Garda College every 4-6 weeks. The latest intake occurred on the 6th and 7th October 2007.

Reserve members undertake their training and other duties on a voluntary basis during their free time. As a result it is not possible to predict how many people will commence training in any particular month. I cannot predict exactly when the 10% target will be reached but I can assure the Deputy that An Garda Síochána are making every effort to reach it as soon as possible.

Gambling Regulations.

Pat Breen

Question:

160 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress that has been made by his Department in its review of the Gaming and Lotteries Acts, 1956 to 1986; the action he proposes to take to regulate newer gambling practices including on-line gambling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22542/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I wish to advise the Deputy that my predecessor received the final Report of the Casino Committee in April 2007. The Report is a detailed and comprehensive document dealing with all the issues placed before the Committee including the internet. After due consideration of these issues, I will be bringing the Report before the Government.

Citizenship Applications.

Brian Hayes

Question:

161 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on a proposal to grant to all new members of An Garda Síochána on commission the automatic entitlement to be made an Irish citizen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22246/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am aware that the Deputy sponsored a Bill on this issue in July, 2006.

The granting of Irish citizenship is, I believe, a decision not to be taken lightly and should only apply to a person who has demonstrated over an extended period of time close links with Ireland, for example by way of legal residence in the State and a degree of real participation in Irish society. While, clearly, joining An Garda Síochána is a very positive act in this respect I would be concerned that a proposal of this nature could result in demands from other persons working in a variety of State services for a similar exemption from the legal criteria for citizenship.

It is my intention to review, over the coming months, the existing criteria for obtaining citizenship through naturalisation and the issue raised by the Deputy can be considered as part of that process.

Sexual Offences.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

162 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps that have been taken to implement the recommendation of the 2006 report of the committee on child protection that a system be developed as soon as possible for computerised storage and dissemination of information received in accordance with the Sex Offenders Act, 2001; and his proposals in relation to the recommendation for the further study of the circumstances in which the persons to whom information contained in the Sex Offenders Register might be released. [22419/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Garda Síochána has in place a system for the monitoring of persons subject to the requirements of the Sex Offenders Act, 2001. The Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit monitor and manage the notification provisions. The information on persons who are subject to the requirements of the Sex Offenders Act, 2001 is maintained at a central location. Only specified nominated Garda personnel have access to this information. I am advised by the Garda authorities that they are currently assessing requirement regarding access to this information by other units within the Force. I have no plans to amend the legislation to allow for access by others to this information.

There are nominated Garda Inspectors in each Garda Division who are notified by the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit when a sex offender, who is subject to the requirements of the Act, is resident in their Division. These inspectors are responsible for the monitoring of such offenders.

The Garda authorities are currently preparing to integrate the system for recording persons subject to the requirements of the Act into the PULSE system.

The provisions of the Sex Offenders Act 2001 are kept under constant review in my Department with a view to ensuring the Act is operating in an efficient and effective manner. I am currently reviewing provisions to strengthen the monitoring of registered sex offenders.

Sale of Alcohol.

Liz McManus

Question:

163 Deputy Liz McManus asked the 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. [22491/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

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

However, while the labelling of containers in which alcohol is sold with a view to combating 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 at retail level 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 earlier in the supply or distribution chains rather than at the point of sale. Attaching labels to the containers at an early stage might be simpler but it 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 alcohol 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 will not in itself constitute proof that the alcohol in the container has 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. That 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 under-age 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 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 outlined.

Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Paul Kehoe

Question:

164 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the towns and urban centres in which Garda closed circuit television systems are in place at present; the proposals in place to extend the Garda CCTV system; the number of locations that will have Garda CCTV systems in place by the end of 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22546/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

CCTV Systems play an important part in support of policing and the maintenance of public safety. They also act as a useful deterrent to street crime and public disorder. The Garda town centre CCTV systems are planned and implemented on the basis of operational needs identified by An Garda Síochána.

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the following locations have CCTV systems that are fully operational: Dublin City centre (north and south); Tralee; Cork City; Bray; Dun Laoghaire; Dundalk; Limerick; Galway and Tullamore. The contractors for the system to be installed in Finglas have been requested to commence installation and that will be subject to the usual requirements of the planning process, permission for wayleaves and the completion of any necessary civil works.

I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that work is ongoing on the installation of CCTV systems in Clondalkin and Ballyfermot and these systems will be operational in the near future.

Contracts for the supply and installation of Garda CCTV systems will be issued shortly for the following nine locations: Drogheda, Tallaght, Mullingar, Waterford, Portlaoise, Kilkenny, Sligo, Castlebar and Ennis. It is expected that installation of these systems will commence early in 2008.

A tender process has also taken place for a further five locations: Athlone, Carlow, Clonmel, Dungarvan and Kinsale. Responses to the tender are currently being evaluated by the Garda authorities. It is expected that works on these systems will commence during the first quarter of 2008.

Data Protection.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

165 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the fact that more than 10,000 requests were made by the Gardaí during 2006 under the Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005 for access to personal telephone records; if he accepts 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 investigation into terrorist offences,drugs offences and other serious offences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22486/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

In the first instance, the figure of 10,000 requests for access to telecommunications traffic and location data made by the Garda Síochána in 2006, as claimed by the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, is a self-described ‘estimate' and not a factual description. In this regard, 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.

The retention of and access to such data are governed by the provisions of Part 7 of the Criminal Justice (Terrorist Offences) Act 2005. Part 7 provides that 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 and only after they have been filtered by senior Garda officers; not all requests by investigating Gardaí result in requests to the telecommunications service providers.

I categorically reject any suggestion that these provisions are being or have been used to improperly intrude upon the privacy of any person, innocent or otherwise.

Part 7 of the 2005 Act also 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 ‘designated judge', who must be a serving Judge of the High Court.

The designated judge's first annual report into the operation of Part 7, dated 20 March, 2007, as laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas, found ‘that the provisions of the legislation are being maintained and in particular that the provisions of the Act of 2005 are not being used for routine Garda inquiries and investigations'.

Prisoner Transfers.

Martin Ferris

Question:

166 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received correspondence in relation to a person (details supplied); and the reason they were denied repatriation. [22511/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The person referred to by the Deputy has made four separate applications for transfer to a prison in this jurisdiction under the Council of Europe Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons, all of which have been refused after careful consideration. In refusing the person's latest application for transfer, I believed that, on balance, he had closer ties to the United Kingdom than to this jurisdiction. In particular, I was not satisfied that he would not normally be resident in this jurisdiction, were it not for his imprisonment. In addition, I was of the opinion that he does not have sufficient family support residing in this jurisdiction.

The Council of Europe Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons does not confer an automatic right on any prisoner to be transferred nor does it confer an obligation on any state to comply with a transfer request. This is clearly set out in the Explanatory Report to the Convention.

Garda Discipline Regulations.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

167 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to the new draft Garda Discipline Regulations which he originally said would be introduced prior to the Dáil Éireann summer recess in 2006 regarding 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. [22501/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Garda Síochána (Discipline) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 214 of 2007) were signed on 2nd May 2007 following discussions at the Garda Conciliation Council and at numerous meetings under the auspices of that council involving the representative associations of the members of the Garda Síochána. The regulations became effective on 1st June 2007 and have been in full operation since that date.

Restorative Justice.

Jim O'Keeffe

Question:

168 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he supports the recommendations of the committee on restorative justice in its report of January 2007; and his proposals to implement those recommendations. [22420/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Following on from the publication of the report on restorative justice by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights in January 2007, the National Commission on Restorative Justice was established in March 2007.

Recommendation 5 of the Joint Oireachtas Committee suggested that a cross-sectoral working group should be created to develop a national strategy for restorative justice that is based on international best practice. The National Commission on Restorative Justice has been established on this basis, with a member of the judiciary appointed to chair the Commission on a full-time basis. The membership of the Commission includes representatives of An Garda Síochána, the Probation Service, the Courts Service, the Director of Public Prosecution's office and two independent members.

The terms of reference of the Commission are wide-ranging. They require the Commission to examine both national and international practice in the area, to consider the recommendations of the Joint Oireachtas Committee, to consider what model or models of restorative justice might be appropriate to Irish circumstances and to issue a final report on these and on other matters by the end of 2008. The Commission recently commenced its deliberations and I look forward to receiving an interim report in the coming months.

The restorative justice process seeks to address the fall-out from criminal behaviour by making the offenders more directly accountable for their actions and by giving a greater voice to victims of crime. This is an issue I have prioritised since taking up office and I await the Commission's deliberations with interest.

Garda Technical Bureau.

Dinny McGinley

Question:

169 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans for the upgrading of the Garda Technical Bureau; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22574/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that, in 2007, approximately €200,000 was expended on upgrading the premises at Garda HQ currently occupied by the Garda Technical Bureau. Future accommodation plans for the Garda Technical Bureau are linked to the Forensic Science Laboratory which is also based at Garda HQ and with which the Bureau works in close partnership.

Treatment of Prisoners.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

170 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in order to ensure full human rights compliance and to prevent further abuse and in view of the high cost to the taxpayer of Garda abuse recently highlighted in media reports, he will arrange for the regulations governing the treatment of persons in Garda custody to be reviewed and human rights proofed and updated. [22514/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The need to human rights proof Garda policies is fully accepted by Garda management and the organisation has been particularly proactive in that regard.

A Human Rights audit has been conducted and the findings of this audit and the associated action plan are currently being implemented under the supervision of the Strategic Human Rights Advisory Committee which is chaired by an Assistant Commissioner and includes a representative from the Irish Human Rights Commission.

In addition, the Garda Síochána are currently engaged in a pilot process with the Honorable Society of the Kings Inns to progress the Human Rights proofing of Garda policies and to develop relevant protocols.

In addition of course the new more streamlined Garda Síochána (Discipline) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 214 of 2007) became effective on 1st June 2007 and have been in full operation since that date.

Finally, the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 (Treatment of Persons in Custody Regulations) strongly affirm the human rights of detained persons and were most recently amended in 2006. As the Deputy may be aware, under the Criminal Justice Act 1984 regulations on the treatment of persons in custody in Garda stations must be approved in advance by both Houses of the Oireachtas.

Garda Deployment.

Tom Hayes

Question:

171 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations in rural areas without a full-time Garda presence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22540/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The information requested in relation to the number of Garda Stations in rural areas without a full time Garda presence is not immediately available. I have requested it from the Garda Commissioner and I will provide it to the Deputy on receipt.

Illegal Immigrants.

John O'Mahony

Question:

172 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to provide a permanent immigration unit at Ireland West Airport, Knock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22158/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Members of An Garda Siochana from Swinford Garda District are deployed on immigration duty at Ireland West Airport every day and local Garda Management has arrangements in place to ensure that Immigration Officers monitor all flights into the airport and the situation remains under constant review.

In deciding the number of personnel to be assigned to immigration control duties at Ports of Entry to the State, and the manner in which they are to be deployed, cognisance is taken of such issues as: throughput of passengers, the frequency of their arrival on particular routes, the jurisdictions from which they travel, and the result of any risk assessment completed with a view to establishing the extent to which illegal immigrants are likely to target a particular Port of Entry, route, flight or sailing.

While local Garda management is satisfied that the immigration service being provided at present at Ireland West Airport is adequate to meet current demands, the establishment of a full-time immigration Unit at Ireland West Airport is also being considered by the Garda authorities.

Question No. 173 answered with QuestionNo. 111.

Question No. 174 answered with QuestionNo. 124.

Garda Investigations.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

175 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the 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. [22490/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

A report on the matter referred to by the Deputy was received by my Department from the Garda Síochána.

Following consideration of the report and submissions made by legal representatives of a person concerned, my predecessor as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform appointed a Senior Counsel to conduct an independent review and thorough examination of the Garda Síochána papers and any other available relevant material relating to the case and related complaints made, with a view to ascertaining the adequacy and completeness of the handling of the complaints and of the case.

Following his review, the Senior Counsel recently submitted his report. The report is currently under consideration and I expect to be in a position to make a statement about its findings in the near future.

Prison Staff.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

176 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on concerns raised by the Comptroller and Auditor General regarding the continued high level of sick leave in the Prison Service; the steps being taken to deal with this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22507/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Deputy will be aware that the Comptroller and Auditor General, whilst outlining his concerns about the level of sick leave in the Prison Service over the period 2002 -2006, has acknowledged that the figures provided by the Prison Service for January to April 2007 show an overall reduction of 10% in per capita sick leave days and that this would represent the first major reversal of the trend of recent years, if maintained. The most recent figures available to end of July 2007 show a reduction of 15.8% in per capita sick leave days compared with the same period last year confirming the downward trend. This is a very welcome development.

The Comptroller and Auditor General's report also acknowledged that any examination of sick leave, or indeed any other aspect of the management of the Prison Service over the period in question, must be seen in the context of the particular circumstances within which the Service was operating during the period under review. The period 2002-2006 was a time of major change with the negotiation and implementation of new working arrangements to replace overtime, and decentralisation of the Prison Service's headquarters initially to Clondalkin and later to Longford. These major organisational changes, which have been successfully rolled out, impacted on the capacity of the Prison Service to address the sick leave problem.

It must be borne in mind also that central to the new working arrangements negotiated with staff representatives is a unique system, based on the concept of annualised hours, which is designed to encourage smart working and to reduce absenteeism. The indications are that the new working arrangements, combined with other measures, are contributing to the downward trend in sick leave.

Alongside the introduction of the new working arrangements, a determined effort continues to be made to reduce sick leave through a range of initiatives and all of those efforts are reflected in the significant improvement in the level of sick leave in the first seven months of this year.

Work is ongoing in relation to improving the management of sick leave in a consistent manner across all prisons and reflecting best practice in this area. Governors are encouraged to pursue a policy of early intervention and to hold return to work interviews that ensure that the appropriate steps are taken whether through support or sanction.

As regards support, prison staff have access to psychological services. There is also support available for Officers through the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). In support of the EAP, a Chief Welfare Officer was appointed in April, 2007 and two Employee Welfare Officers will also be available to support and advise staff with difficulties arising inside or outside the workplace which may have an impact on their ability to provide regular effective service. The principal providers of the EAP services are a network of Staff Support Officers. Most prisons have Staff Support Officers and where there are vacancies these will be filled shortly.

The Prison Service is also committed to promoting a positive working environment which will assist in reducing absenteeism. One such initiative is the introduction in March, 2007 of a formal anti Harassment, Sexual Harassment and Bullying Policy for the Prison Service.

The Prison Service is also exploring with the Department of Finance and the Office of the Chief Medical Officer the possibility of establishing an Occupational Health facility dedicated to the particular occupational needs of prison staff.

Where sanction is appropriate, Officers are issued with warnings about their level of absences and if there is no significant improvement in their attendance level a number of measures are available, including the withdrawal of payment for sick leave or even dismissal where there is persistent absenteeism.

Whilst the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General did highlight concerns about the period 2002-2006, I am encouraged by the fact that there is a marked improvement in the level of sick leave in this current year. It is my view that with the support and cooperation of management and staff, the new working arrangements and initiatives outlined will continue to produce positive results for sick leave levels across the Prison Service.

National Drugs Strategy.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

177 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps being taken to reduce the supply of cocaine to Ireland in view of its increased usage and the recent report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime which suggested that cocaine use is increasing at a higher rate in Ireland than in any other developed countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22495/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Government is well aware of the increased prevalence of cocaine usage in Ireland in recent times and as the Deputy points out the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime Annual Drug Report 2007 identifies that the consumption of cocaine grew in Europe including in Ireland last year.

Of course the Government views with concern such global developments and any potential rise in the level of any illegal drugs being trafficked into this country. The drugs situation is dynamic and ever changing and we must ensure that our policies are flexible to meet those changes.

Since 2000 there has been a noticeable increase in both the number of seizures and the quantity of cocaine seized by the Garda authorities as demonstrated by the table below.

The precise availability and usage of cocaine in this country is difficult to determine with any degree of certainty, due to the hidden nature of all illegal drug usage including cocaine.

A joint research report on cocaine use by the National Advisory Committee on Drugs (NACD) and the National Drugs Strategy Team (NDST), was also recently published which identified the increased prevalence of cocaine usage in recent times in Ireland.

The Interdepartmental Drugs Group, chaired by my colleague Minister of State Pat Carey T.D., is currently liaising with the relevant Departments and Agencies in relation to the recommendations contained in the report.

Efforts to tackle the problem are broadly based to include measures aimed at both supply and demand reduction, including awareness initiatives. The new National Drug Awareness campaign which is currently being finalised under the remit of the HSE will be particularly concerned with, inter alia, dispelling any perceptions of cocaine as a safe recreational drug.

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. The continuing high level of cocaine seizures by the Gardaí demonstrates the operational success of these strategies.

Finally, Ireland is one of the participants of the recently established Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre (Narcotics) MAOC(N) in Lisbon, which has the specific objective of intercepting narcotic shipments, in particular cocaine, to the European Union from Latin America.

As well as having officers assigned to Interpol and Europol, An Garda Síochána also has Liaison Officers posted in London, The Hague, Paris and Madrid whose primary function is to liaise with the authorities in those and adjoining jurisdictions on drugs and other criminal matters.

I can assure the Deputy that An Garda Síochána will continue to direct its drug law enforcement activities in a focused way through intelligence driven operations at national, regional, divisional and district level.

Cocaine seizures by An Garda Síochána 2000-2006
Year	Quantity	No. of Cases	Value
	kgs		€
2006	190	1,324	13.3m
2005	229	968	16.030m
2004	167.3	753	11.711m
2003	107.4	566	7.518m
2002	31.7	429	2.219m
2001	5.3	300	371,000
2000	18	206	1.26m

Victims Commission.

Damien English

In that regard, I believe it is very encouraging that all of the Member States of the Council of Europe have either abolished the death penalty or imposed a moratorium on executions.

Illegal Immigrants.

Ulick Burke

Question:

181 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps that have been taken by his Department to reduce the incidence of human trafficking through Irish ports in view of recent revelations which highlighted the absence of appropriate legislation here to tackle human trafficking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22534/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

An Garda Síochána has put in place a number of initiatives designed to prevent and detect a range of criminal activity, including human trafficking, at the frontiers of the State. Robust immigration controls have been adopted at ports of entry to the State, two of which, Operations ‘Gull' and ‘Sonnett', were commenced to target criminality which has a cross-border dimension. Both operations have uncovered suspected cases of trafficking of persons and smuggling of illegal immigrants.

Ireland participates in the activities of the European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States of the European Union (FRONTEX). Among the objectives of such activity, is the disruption of the flow of trafficked persons.

The Garda National Immigration Bureau Information System (GNIB IS) provides access to databases of information which have the capacity to identify persons who have a criminal intent as they attempt to enter the State. Access to an Interpol database of stolen/forged travel documents has resulted in the detection of persons in possession of stolen passports and who are suspected of involvement in trafficking and/or smuggling of people into the State.

The Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) has appointed a number of Airline Liaison Officers (ALOs) who are deployed as appropriately to airports in EU Member States that have been identified as convenient departure points for travel to Ireland and which are suspected of being utilised by criminals involved in the smuggling of immigrants and trafficking of human beings.

The provisions of the Illegal Immigrants (Trafficking) Act, 2000 are enforced by Immigration Officers operating at ports of entry. The following cases are recent examples of this enforcement.

On 26 July 2007, at Dublin Circuit Court, a person was convicted of twelve (12) counts of trafficking of illegal immigrants contrary to the provisions of section 2 of the Act involving the arrival of twelve Mauritian nationals in the State, through Dublin Airport. A four year custodial sentence was imposed in that case.

On 30 August 2007, at Dublin District Court, an Egyptian national was also convicted of a breach of the provisions of section 2 of the Act and had a twelve month term of imprisonment imposed on him, in a case involving the arrival of six Egyptian nationals in the State, through Dublin Airport. The sentence was suspended following the Judge being satisfied that his departure from the State to Egypt had been confirmed.

Operation ‘Pentameter 2' which is being launched with the UK Authorities continues to recognise the vulnerability of the Common Travel Area (CTA) to abuse by persons engaged in illegal immigration and is targeting those suspected of involvement in the trafficking of human beings, as well as liaising with those persons directly affected by this type of criminality.

I can assure the Deputy that the Government is not complacent on the issue of human trafficking into Ireland or into other jurisdictions via Ireland. Legislation creating an offence of recruiting, transporting, transferring to another person, harbouring or knowingly arranging or facilitating the entry into, travel within or departure from the State of a person for the specific purpose of the trafficked person's sexual or labour exploitation or removal of his or her organs will be published shortly.

In addition, it is intended that the Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill will, subject to enactment, provide the necessary framework for addressing the immigration aspects of trafficking so as to comply with the relevant protection provisions in the Council of Europe Convention.

In particular, in the context of the treatment of victims, it is intended that a framework will be put in place whereby a victim of trafficking can be afforded an immediate period of recovery and reflection in the State and also, in circumstances where he or she wishes to participate in any criminal proceedings in the matter, a further period of residence to enable him or her to do so.

The legislation will be the first in a series of measures to be rolled out over the next year and I intend to make a further public announcement in relation to the issue of human trafficking later on this week.

Commissions of Investigation.

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Government decided earlier this year to assign a site owned by the Minister of Defence to the Prison Service as the location for the development of a prison facility to replace Cork Prison and serve the Munster region.

A preliminary site suitability report has been carried out on the site and this has confirmed that there are no significant constraints to the development of this site.

I can confirm also that the Prison Service Interim Board, in accordance with the Department of Finance Guidelines, has recently approved a preliminary Business Case for this project and has forwarded it to my Department for consideration.

Question No. 186 answered with QuestionNo. 137.

Departmental Agencies.

Seán Barrett

Question:

187 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will postpone further development of the COSC Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence to address the serious concerns of the Irish Violence against Women non-governmental sector in relation to COSC’s limited remit; if it is proposed to address all forms of violence against women in an integrated and cohesive way, focusing on the three key elements of protection, provision and prevention, as required by the 1995 UN Beijing Platform for Action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22154/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions Nos. 212 and 213 of Thursday, 28 June 2007.

Cosc — The National Office for the Prevention of Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence was established on 25 June 2007. I am aware that some concern was expressed about the remit of the newly established Cosc office. I would like to reiterate that as announced on 18 April, 2007 and on several occasions since that date, the remit of the office very emphatically includes violence against women. The wider remit of the office covers (i) domestic and sexual violence against women, (ii) domestic and sexual violence against men and (iii) elder abuse. The State/Non-governmental structures already in place to deal with violence against women will continue and will be strongly supported by the new office. Prior to the establishment of the Cosc, responsibility for this area within my Department was assigned to Divisions with a wide number of other responsibilities. The appointment of the Executive Director to Cosc, raises the profile and the focus on this work within my Department. Responsibility for this area was further dispersed across a number of Government Departments and agencies. For the first time there is now in prospect a dedicated, resourced office at Government level, with the key responsibility to ensure the delivery of a well co-ordinated "whole of Government" response to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.

Cosc is to collaborate closely with the service providers who support victims and treat perpetrators. It has already begun work to achieve its tasks, which are: to work with Government Departments, Agencies and Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in the sector to ensure the delivery of a well co-ordinated service to support victims of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence; to develop and deliver awareness raising strategies to ensure that victims are aware of the availability of services in their locality and that society is made aware of the extent and impact of behaviours and crimes of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence; to develop strategies to address the issues of domestic, sexual and gender-based violence in line with best international practice; to further develop standards for service delivery and for training programmes which address domestic, sexual and gender-based violence; to put in place strategically based positive actions which work with perpetrators of domestic violence; to provide leadership and support to the National Steering Committee on Violence Against Women (NSC) and its sub-committees; to continue to implement the recommendations of the 1997 Task Force on Violence against Women; to consider and where relevant facilitate the implementation of internationally established best practice throughout the sector; to work with the National Crime Council and external bodies as appropriate to establish a body of research to inform future policy directions for domestic, sexual and gender-based violence; to represent Ireland at international fora which have a remit in relation to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence.

I am happy to inform the Deputy that the Secretary General and some officials of my Department met with representatives of the non-governmental organisations working in the Violence Against Women sector in June and discussed their concerns. The recently appointed head of Cosc participated in that meeting. Since then she has met with many of the State and non-governmental organisations on a bilateral basis, in addition to chairing the two quarterly meetings of the National Steering Committee on Violence Against Women (NSC) where she provided further clarity in relation to the remit of Cosc. I am informed that all of these meetings were held in a positive and collaborative atmosphere and that a good foundation has been laid for work into the future.

I would assure the Deputy, unequivocally, that the establishment of Cosc is to ensure the delivery of a well co-ordinated "whole of Government" response to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence which includes the key features — protection, provision and prevention.

Garda Disciplinary Proceedings.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

188 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the 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 Gardaí 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. [22503/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The information requested by the Deputy concerning the amounts paid out in Court awards and out of court settlements in relation to 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 table below.

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 (1)	3,809.21 (1)	56,500 (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 (1)	10,000 (2)	4,870 (2)
		Settlements	75,000 (4)	303,011 (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 (1)		3,215.06 (1)
		Settlements	198,697.48 (5)	73,007 (5)	50,500 (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 (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	1,951,984.9*	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 30/09/07	5,816,184.80*	Awards	72,500.00 (1)		2,771,000.00 (2)
		Settlements	180,500.00 (5)	27,500.00 (3)	1,165,000.00 (6)
		Costs	443,249.90 (9)	584,788.08 (7)	571,646.90 (19)
		Total	696,249.90	612,288.08	4,507,646.90

*Provisional

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

As of today there are approximately 1030 cases on hand. It is not possible to give a definitive detailed breakdown of the types of cases as requested by the Deputy within the time available. However, based on a representative sample of cases, the breakdown is assault (33%), unlawful arrest (21%) and other (46%).

Witness Intimidation.

Alan Shatter

Question:

189 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the changes he considers appropriate for the witness protection programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22562/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The Witness Security Programme was established in 1997 under the direct operational control and administration of the Garda Commissioner in response to attempts by criminal and other groups to prevent the normal functioning of the criminal justice system, including threats of violence and systematic intimidation of witnesses.

The Programme has been demonstrably successful and it has withstood legal challenge in both the Court of the Criminal Appeal and the Supreme Court.

Nevertheless, in response to some criticisms, the Garda Commissioner appointed an Assistant Commissioner to review the Programme in its entirety. This review was substantively completed in 2005, and enhancements to the Programme's administration and operation have since been implemented by the Garda Síochána. For obvious reasons, it is not the practice to comment upon the details of operating the Programme.

I am aware of suggestions which have been made that the Witness Security Programme should be placed on a statutory basis. The Garda Commissioner has informed me that he would not favour this approach, and I have no plans in that regard. It seems clear, in particular, that placing the Programme on a statutory basis would have no effect whatsoever on the willingness or otherwise of people to enter the Programme.

Garda Stations.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

190 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will report on the fitness of accommodation at all Garda locations including plans in place to renovate or replace all stations where conditions are unacceptable. [22516/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

There is a significant ongoing programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda stations and other Garda accommodation around the country. The Garda Building Programme is based on agreed priorities which are established by An Garda Síochána. The programme is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close co-operation with the Office of Public Works, which has responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda stations and other accommodation.

Approximately €37 million a year from 2005 to this year has been spent on a wide range of Garda building projects. Building projects for new stations in Bantry, Ballyshannon, Roscrea, New Ross, Ballina and Oranmore, among others, have been completed. In addition, a major building programme was completed in the Garda College in Templemore and a 252 acre site outside Templemore has been purchased for the development of a new tactical training centre for An Garda Síochána.

In addition to the capital funding outlined above, a total of €8.36 million is provided for maintenance of existing stations under the Garda Vote Estimate for 2007 — an increase of €2.1 million on last year's allocation.

Major funding of the Garda Building Programme will continue with €260 million allocated for the refurbishment of Garda stations under the National Development Plan. The Garda authorities under the new civilian accommodation manager are working on the development of a strategic multi-annual development plan as recommended in the recent report from the Garda Inspectorate.

Question No. 191 answered with QuestionNo. 133.

Decentralisation Programme.

John Perry

Question:

192 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of staff from his Department who have been decentralised to locations outside Dublin to date; the cost to the Exchequer to date of his Department’s decentralisation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22544/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department's Decentralisation Programme is firmly on target. Under the Programme, over 900 posts from my Department and its agencies are scheduled to relocate to seven provincial locations. To date, over 400 assignments have been made and it is anticipated that close to 500 posts will have moved out of Dublin by the end of this year. With over two years of the programme yet to run, we will have a presence in all seven locations by the end of 2007 and this represents more than 50% of the overall number of posts scheduled to move.

As the Deputy will be aware, the costs in respect of property solutions under decentralisation are primarily a matter for the Office of Public Works and these costs account for the bulk of the expenditure. The non-property costs incurred by my Department up until the middle of this year, in areas such as IT, office equipment and training, amounted to just over €1 million.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

193 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when it is intended to reconstitute the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22553/07]

Martin Ferris

Question:

439 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will appoint a new board to constitute the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22302/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 and 439 together.

I can inform the Deputies that I have recently appointed a new Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal for the period ending 30 April 2010. The membership of the new tribunal is as follows: Ms. Sinéad Behan, BL (Chairperson); Mr. Conor Bowman, BL; Ms. Fiona Gallagher, BL; Mr. Michael Gilvarry, BL; Ms. Rosemary Healy Rae, BL; Mr. Eamon Murray, Solicitor; Mr. Micheál D. O'Connell, BL.

Anti-Social Behaviour.

Denis Naughten

Question:

194 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps which he will take to address the issue of anti-social behaviour; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22157/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

Strong provisions are already in place to combat anti-social behaviour. The Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 modernised the law in this regard. The Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 contains provisions to deal with alcohol abuse and its effect on public order. The Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 2003 provides the Garda with powers to deal with late night street violence and anti-social conduct attributable to excessive drinking.

In addition to the criminal law, there is a range of initiatives in place to get at the root causes of this type of behaviour. The Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme has proven to be highly successful in diverting young persons away from crime by offering guidance and support to juveniles and their families. It operates on a nationwide basis under the supervision and direction of the Garda National Juvenile Office. The Programme provides that, in certain circumstances, a juvenile under 18 years of age, who freely accepts responsibility for a criminal incident, may be cautioned as an alternative to prosecution. In the more serious cases, juveniles are placed under the supervision of Garda Juvenile Liaison Officers, who are responsible for administering the Programme at the local level. It has proven to be highly successful in diverting young people away from crime by offering guidance and support to juveniles and their families. The Children Act, 2001 gives a statutory basis to the Programme.

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 or criminal behaviour. By doing so, the projects also contribute to improving the quality of life within communities and enhancing Garda/community relations. The Government is committed to doubling the number of projects to 168. I recently approved the establishment of an additional 12 projects, bringing the current total to 93 throughout the country. I hope to establish a further seven projects before the end of 2007, bringing the total number of projects to 100 nationwide.

More broadly, a number of reforms have taken place in recent years to bring about a more effective youth justice system and these have been enshrined in legislation in the Children Act 2001, as amended. The Act is based on the principles of diversion from crime and anti-social behaviour, restorative justice, the expanded use of community-based sanctions and measures by the courts, and the use of detention only as a last resort.

Recent measures have reformed our entire approach to youth justice. The Irish youth justice service, an executive office of my Department which is co-located in the Office of the Minister for Children, now has responsibility for developing youth justice policy and operating the children detention schools.

Ultimately, offenders have to pay a price for engaging in anti-social behaviour. I have therefore asked my Department to look at the question of what the Programme for Government refers to as community payback. This involves those who have transgressed providing real services for the communities they have damaged. It is the case that community service orders already mean some offenders make reparation to society generally, but I now want to examine the possibility of making a more direct connection between the offence and reparation to the community against whom the offence has been committed.

CCTV schemes are a strong deterrent in fighting crime and anti-social behaviour as well as giving communities greater peace of mind. Both Garda operated and community based CCTV schemes have been set up, and such schemes will continue to be set up.

The Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides for the establishment of a joint policing committee in each local authority administrative area. The purpose of these committees is to provide a forum where members of 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 including the levels and patterns of anti-social behaviour such as the misuse of alcohol and drugs.

Twenty nine committees are now operating on a pilot basis. The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Gormley, and I are examining what lessons can be learned from the operation of the pilot committees, and we intend to have committees up and running in all local authority areas as early as possible in 2008.

Part 11 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2006, which provides for civil proceedings in relation to anti-social behaviour by adults, was commenced on 1 January, 2007. Part 13 of the Act relating to anti-social behaviour by children was commenced on 1 March, 2007. These provisions set out an incremental procedure for addressing anti-social behaviour by adults and children.

Under the Garda Síochána Act it is open to me to set policing priorities for the Garda Síochána. I am in the course of determining these priorities for 2008. One of the priorities I intend to set for the Garda Síochána is to combat, particularly in cooperation with other agencies and the community generally, the problems of public disorder with particular emphasis on alcohol related behaviour (including under age drinking) and socially disadvantaged communities especially through utilisation of the legal mechanisms being made available, viz. ASBOs and behaviour warnings and closure orders.

Inspector of Prisons.

Michael Creed

Question:

195 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress that has been made in appointing a new Inspector of Prisons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22547/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The appointment of a new Inspector of Prisons is under active consideration and an announcement will be made in due course.

Parental Rights.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

196 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he will take to recognise the rights of unmarried fathers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21087/07]

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

449 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to deal with the position of unmarried fathers following the recent Judge McKechnie judgement. [22430/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 196 and 449 together.

Existing legislation already makes extensive provision for unmarried fathers with respect to their children. Under the law as it stands — section 6A of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964, as inserted by section 12 of the Status of Children Act 1987 — an unmarried father may apply to the court to be appointed a guardian of his child. Alternatively, where there is agreement between the parents, they can make a statutory declaration under section 2(4) of the Guardianship of Infants Act, as inserted by section 4 of the Children Act 1997, conferring on the father the status of guardian.

Under section 11 of the 1964 Act, a guardian may apply to the court for its direction on any question affecting the welfare of the child. Examples of such proceedings are applications for custody and access orders. In making such orders and, in determining whether an unmarried father should be appointed guardian, the court has to regard the welfare of the child as the first and paramount consideration. Where appropriate and practicable, the Court in making any order takes into account the child's wishes in the matter having regard to the age and understanding of the child. In considering whether to make an order under section 6A or 11 the court is directed — under provision in the Act of 1997 — to have regard to whether the child's best interests would be served by maintaining personal relations and direct contact with both his or her father and mother on a regular basis.

The Act of 1964 (by way of amendment in the Act of 1997) encourages parties to a dispute in relation to a child to agree on the custody or guardianship of or access to a child. Prior to institution of proceedings the legal representatives of the parties must discuss with them the possibility of agreement. The Court may adjourn any proceedings to assist agreement between the parties.

These legislative provisions are extensive. They permit the court in cases of disagreement to decide on arrangements for the child's care and upbringing having regard to the child's best interests. The courts have consistently recognised the wide variety of situations of unmarried fathers and have necessarily determined the question of their constitutional rights on a case by case basis. The judgement in the recent G. case reaffirmed this position.

I am aware of the concerns of unmarried fathers regarding guardianship, custody and access rights and the issue of enforcement of these rights. Operation of the law in this whole area is being kept under review in my Department.

Question No. 197 answered with QuestionNo. 178.

Question No. 198 answered with QuestionNo. 133.

Tuberculosis Incidence.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

199 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of deer on the Office of Public Works lands; the number being culled; the number of deer being tested for tuberculosis and the results of the testing programme; and the measures in place to minimise or prevent road accidents as a result of deer crossing the road. [22413/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Deputy Noel Ahern)

The Office of Public Works manages two sites with wild deer herds, Doneraile Park in County Cork and the Phoenix Park in Dublin.

The wild deer herd at Doneraile currently consists of 172 animals. The last cull was carried out two years ago. An average cull would consist of about 30 animals. The question of traffic accidents involving deer is not an issue in Doneraile Park. Tuberculosis has not been identified as a problem at Doneraile.

The wild deer herd in the Phoenix Park currently consists of 570 animals. Culling is carried out annually in close consultation with the UCD School of Biological and Environmental Science, with the objective of maintaining the herd at a reasonable level from the viewpoints of both the herd and the Park environment. An average cull would consist of about 60 animals. A number of measures have been taken to reduce the risk of traffic accidents involving deer, including warning signs on the roads to indicate the presence of deer and the closure of minor roads. A study carried out on 150 deer carcasses from the Phoenix Park at the Central Veterinary Laboratory in Abbotstown, over the past four years has revealed no trace of tuberculosis in any of the animals. These results tend to suggest that no significant problem exists with tuberculosis in this deer herd.

Tax Collection.

Richard Bruton

Question:

200 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the tax paid on air trips is not refunded in the event of cancellation; if he will state what happens to this revenue; and if he has approved the non-refund policy operated by airlines. [22520/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

Since the £5 travel tax was abolished in Budget 2000 there have been no Irish Government taxes levied on flights into, out of or within Ireland.

Vehicle Registration.

Joe McHugh

Question:

201 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will explain the mechanism involved in re-registering cars bought in Northern Ireland, outlining the cost and time frame involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22732/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

The Revenue Commissioners are the vehicle registration authority in the State.

Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) may be payable on the importation of a vehicle from Northern Ireland into the State. As a general rule all vehicles imported permanently into the State from Northern Ireland or elsewhere must register for VRT purposes at any vehicle registration office within one week of their arrival in the State.

VRT is charged on the open market selling price (OMSP) of a vehicle in the State on registration and is defined in Section 133 of the Finance Act 1992 as the price inclusive of all taxes and duties which a vehicle may reasonably be expected to fetch on a first arm's length sale in the open market in the State by retail. The OMSP of new vehicles is declared to the Revenue Commissioners by a wholesale distributor, while the OMSP of imported second hand vehicles is determined by the Revenue Commissioners based on factors such as age, mileage and vehicle condition.

Cars such as saloons, estates, hatchbacks, minibuses, etc. with less than 12 permanently fitted passenger seats are classified as Category A vehicles for VRT purposes and as such are charged VRT based on the engine size of the car using the following calculation: less than 1400cc @ 22.5% of OMSP; from 1401 to 1900cc @ 25% of OMSP; 1901cc and over @ 30% of OMSP; subject to a minimum payment of €315.00. Car-derived vans and crew cabs of less than 3,500 kg gross vehicle weight are charged at 13.3% of OMSP, while commercial and agricultural vehicles pay a flat rate of €50.00 regardless of OMSP.

The Deputy may wish to note that VAT is chargeable at the rate of 21% of the invoice price and is payable by a private individual at the time of registration for VRT purposes on all new cars brought into the State. For VAT purposes, a new car is one which is less than six months old or which has travelled less than 6,000 kilometres.

Regarding the cost of administration, the Revenue Commissioners take an integrated cross-taxhead approach to the collection of taxes. Consequently the cost of collecting VRT on the registration of vehicles sourced solely in Northern Ireland is not readily available. However, the total cost of administration of all taxes as a percentage of gross tax receipts for 2006 was 0.77%.

The total VRT yield was almost €1.3 billion in 2006. During 2006, the last full year for which figures are available, 11,236 second hand vehicles were imported from Northern Ireland, providing a VRT yield of €25.7 million.

Departmental Properties.

The position is that section 14 of Finance Act 2007 amended section 216A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, which exempts from income tax, income received from the letting of rooms in a person's private residence provided the income does not exceed €7,620 per annum. The amendment provided that the exemption does not apply where a child pays the rent to a parent. However, the amendment made no change to the manner in which the exemption applies to any other directly related individuals, who may avail of the rent-a-room scheme as before.

Higher Education Grants.

Jack Wall

Question:

205 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if the Revenue Commissioners will supply a P21 form to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22303/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they have no record of receiving a request from the taxpayer for a form P21. Following the Deputy's request a review has been processed for 2006 and a form P21 issued to the taxpayer on 4 October 2007.

Decentralisation Programme.

Michael Ring

Question:

206 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position in relation to the decentralisation of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs to County Mayo; if a site has been selected; and when a planning application will be submitted for the new headquarters of the Department. [21167/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Deputy Noel Ahern)

The Commissioners of Public Works have received a number of proposals offering potentially suitable sites for the new Headquarters of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs in Charlestown, County Mayo. These proposals are currently being technically assessed. When this process is completed, negotiations will commence with the owners of the preferred site options.

When a suitable site has been acquired, tenders will be invited from interested parties to build the new Department Headquarters. It will be a matter for the successful tenderer to apply for planning permission at that stage.

Budget Submissions.

Jack Wall

Question:

207 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his views in regard to a submission (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22388/07]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

213 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his proposals to provide increased funding for eating disorders in Budget 2008 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22627/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 207 and 213 together.

I have received a number of submissions on behalf of this group. I will keep the Deputies' representations in mind in the context of the forthcoming budget.

National Lottery.

Finian McGrath

Question:

208 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if there is evidence to back up allegations regarding the National Lottery (details supplied). [22404/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

The National Lottery Company has informed me that it has received no allegations of the kind referred to by the Deputy. The Company has also informed me that should any allegations be made to it, they would be thoroughly investigated and, if sustained, appropriate action would be taken.

Disabled Drivers.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

209 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding an appeal under the disabled drivers and passengers tax concession scheme by a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22422/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

The initial application for a Primary Medical Certificate under the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Regulations 1994, is made to the Senior Medical Officer of the relevant local Health Service Executive administrative area.

If the Primary Medical Certificate has been refused in this case, the named person may appeal the refusal to the Medical Board of Appeal, National Rehabilitation Hospital, Rochestown Avenue, Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin. I would point out that the medical Board of Appeal is independent in the exercise of its functions.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

210 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding an application for the disabled drivers and passengers tax concession scheme by a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22423/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that based on the information supplied they have been unable to trace any claim by the named person under the Disabled Drivers and the Disabled Passengers [Tax Concessions] Regulations 1994.

A claim under the above regulations can only be considered by the Revenue Commissioners from a person who has qualified for a Primary Medical Certificate which is issued by the Senior Area Medical Officer of their local Health Service Executive administrative area.

If the Primary Medical Certificate has been refused in this case, the named person may appeal the refusal to the Medical Board of Appeal, National Rehabilitation Hospital, Rochestown Avenue, Dún Laoghaire, County Dublin.

Decentralisation Programme.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

211 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the expected timeframe for the planning process to be completed and contracts signed for the site on foot of the decentralisation programme for the Department of Defence to Newbridge County Kildare; when building work is expected to commence and the targeted completion date; if the Office of Public Works will source rented accommodation or other suitable temporary accommodation for the staff in question; if ongoing delays continue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22524/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Deputy Noel Ahern)

The Commissioners of Public Works have agreed terms to purchase a site comprising 1.76 hectares/4.5 acres at Station Road, Newbridge from Kildare County Council. The terms agreed were approved by Kildare County Council in January 07. The site is currently being used as a soccer pitch by a local sports club. The Commissioners will shortly complete the planning process which has been conducted under Part 9 of the Planning and Development Regulations, 2001.

The Contract for Sale will be executed by the Commissioners as soon as a number of related issues are resolved. The key issue is obtaining vacant possession of the site. In this regard, the Commissioners have been informed recently by Kildare County Council that it is likely to be early in the new year before the site will be vacated by the soccer club.

Another issue is the provision of a footbridge to provide safe pedestrian access to the railway station and Newbridge town. The Commissioners are awaiting confirmation as to when a planning application for the construction of the bridge will be lodged by a private developer with Kildare County Council.

As soon as the Commissioners are given a firm date for vacant possession of the site, and are satisfied that the construction of the footbridge will proceed, the Contract for Sale will be completed and the construction of the new headquarters building for the Department of Defence will commence. It is expected that the building will be ready for occupation approximately 18 months after the commencement date.

The Commissioners are satisfied that all of the issues related to the site purchase and adjoining developments in the Station Road area are very close to being resolved. In the circumstances, the Commissioners have not been requested to provide temporary accommodation in Newbridge pending completion of the permanent headquarters building.

Cross-Border Projects.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

212 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will report on the work of the North-South unit in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22598/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

There is a North/South dimension to the work of a number of areas in my Department. The lead North-South section in my Department is mainly involved in the process of agreeing corporate plans, business plans and annual budgets for the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), one of the North/South Bodies established under the Good Friday Agreement. In co-operation with sponsor Departments, it is also involved in agreeing guidance for the bodies on various matters such as proper financial procedures. This work involves regular attendance at joint North/South meetings and liaison at official level with the administration in Northern Ireland. For example, the recent plenary meeting of the North-South Ministerial Council (NSMC) which took place at Armagh in July.

My Department actively assists cross border co-operation through supporting the SEUPB in its role as managing authority to two EU funded cross-Border programmes. The SEUPB is one of six North-South Implementation Bodies set up under Strand II of the Good Friday Agreement. It operates under the political direction of the North South Ministerial Council. The operating costs are met by my Department (50%) and the Department of Finance and Personnel, Northern Ireland (50%).

The two North-South EU programmes for the period 2000-2006 are PEACE II and INTERREG IIIA. Successor programmes for the period 2007-2013 were successfully negotiated by the two member states and will, pending EU Commission approval, commence before the end of 2007.

The aim of the unique EU Programme for Peace and Reconciliation is to promote reconciliation and help to build a more peaceful and stable society in Northern Ireland and the six southern bordering counties, Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth. It has a strong cross-Border focus; a minimum of €87 million of funds, including the national contribution, will be allocated to southern Border counties in the public, private and community sectors, for the purpose of engaging in mutually beneficial cross-border peace and reconciliation activities. The total value of the overall PEACE effort since its commencement in 1995 is €1,504m.

The value of the Peace III programme (2007-2013), including national contributions, will be €333 million. I am very aware of the importance of the work of the programme to the peace process.

The INTERREG programmes aim to address the economic and social disadvantage that can result from the existence of a border. Previous INTERREG programmes covered most of Northern Ireland and the six southern bordering counties. However, the INTERREG IV programme (2007-2013) includes a new dimension as it also covers western parts of Scotland. All projects must include a North-South element and the priorities in this area will be transport, business, and the environment. A minimum of €70 million of funds will be allocated to southern Border counties with a view to promoting a more prosperous and sustainable cross-Border region. The total value of the INTERREG IV programme (2007-2013), including national contributions, will be €256 million.

With regard to the INTERREG Programmes, I am pleased to say that my Department, in conjunction with the Department of Finance and Personnel in Northern Ireland (DFPNI), is hosting an INTERREG Information Seminar which will shortly be held at the Royal Hospital in Kilmainham, Dublin, on Tuesday 23 October and which will provide a full day's programme of information on all aspects of EU-funded INTERREG programmes in Ireland both North and South. In addition to the Ireland-Northern Ireland-Scotland INTERREG Programme, this seminar will also focus on the increased potential for North-South cooperation in the INTERREG Transnational programmes and the INTERREG Inter-regional Programme of which Ireland and Northern-Ireland, the UK and other EU member states are joint members. The list of speakers will include representatives of the Irish Regional Assemblies and the SEUPB.

There are on-going contacts between my Department and the DFPNI and the critical importance of these ongoing contacts is well understood. So also is the significance of the all-Ireland economy, and the National Development Plan for 2007-2013, the drafting of which has been coordinated by my Department, reflects the Government's stress on the importance of the all-Ireland dimension.

Last week on Wednesday 3 October, officials of my Department together with officials from a number of other Government departments, attended the Northern Ireland Economic Conference 2007 in Belfast and participated in the Conference workshops. Therefore, I can assure the Deputy that the North-South unit of my Department is fully aware of the importance of the North/South dimension and is actively engaged in the planning and the implementation of activities in this regard.

Question No. 213 answered with QuestionNo. 207.

Decentralisation Programme.

Jack Wall

Question:

214 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position on the transfer of his Department to Athy; the timescale involved; the number of staff transferring; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22658/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the Office of Public Works are currently assessing a number of possibilities for a permanent accommodation solution for the Revenue staff, who will be decentralised to Athy. In all it is intended to decentralise 250 Revenue staff to Athy.

The Office of Public Works have also completed negotiations for the provision of premises to accommodate an advance party of up to 80 staff. Fitting out of these premises is nearing completion and Revenue expect to be in a position to occupy the premises towards the end of November 2007.

Tax Code.

Damien English

Question:

215 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his plans, following a notice of motion passed at the September 2007 monthly meeting of Navan Town Council, to include Navan in future tax incentives for derelict properties in the town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22706/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

Navan was among the 42 towns and cities that had integrated areas designated for tax relief under the 1999 Urban Renewal Scheme and still benefits from this designation.

Following a major review of various property and area based tax incentive schemes I announced in Budget 2006 that most of the existing reliefs were being terminated subject to certain transitional provisions. These included the Urban Renewal and Town Renewal Schemes. There are no plans to re-introduce schemes along the lines of those terminated in Budget 2006.

Richard Bruton

Question:

216 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the anomalous treatment of live poultry in the VAT code whereby live poultry is taxed at 13.5%, eggs are taxed at 0% rate and other livestock are taxed at 4.8%; if it is possible to amend the definition of livestock in order that live poultry would be included in the same category as other live animals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22728/07]

Michael McGrath

Question:

217 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if his Department will address the competitive disadvantage imposed on the poultry business arising from the 13.5% VAT rate which applies to live poultry in this jurisdiction as opposed to the zero rating in Northern Ireland. [22772/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 216 and 217 together.

The position is that the VAT regime and indeed the rating of all goods and services are subject to the requirements of EU VAT law with which Irish VAT law must comply. While we can retain the zero and livestock rating provisions which were in existence on 1 January 1991, we cannot introduce any new ones. Therefore, it is not possible to apply either a zero or livestock rate to the supply of live poultry.

Under Annex III of the VAT Directive, VAT registered hatcheries are liable to VAT at the 13.5 per cent rate on their supplies of live poultry. VAT registered farmers are entitled to claim VAT on their input costs which would include VAT paid on live poultry.

In relation to unregistered farmers, the Deputy will be aware that such farmers receive compensation for VAT paid on their inputs through the farmers flat rate addition. The flat-rate scheme, which is provided for under the VAT Directive, is a simplified and practical method of applying value-added tax to farming. It compensates unregistered farmers on an overall basis for the VAT charged to them on their purchases of goods and services. This is achieved without applying the normal VAT rules on registration and returns. The farmers VAT flat-rate addition for un-registered farmers was increased in my last Budget from 4.8 per cent to 5.2 per cent. In this regard, the Government's position of maintaining the farmers flat rate addition at the appropriate rate has not changed.

Michael Ring

Question:

218 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the measures planned to make the VRT system barrier aligned towards reducing Ireland’s CO2 emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22792/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

In Budget 2007, I announced that it was planned to introduce changes to the current VRT system to take greater account of environmental issues, and in particular Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions, with a target date of 1 January 2008. The Programme for Government re-affirms the commitment to introduce measures to further weight VRT in favour of cars with lower emissions.

A public consultation in this regard has taken place. Work on the matter is ongoing and a range of possible options are being considered.

Cycle Facilities.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Question:

219 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to complaints that the cycle lanes in the Phoenix Park are regularly mistaken for footpaths and are therefore unsafe both for cyclists and pedestrians; his views on redesigning the cycle lanes in the park or providing adequate signage to direct users to the appropriate path; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22845/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Finance (Deputy Noel Ahern)

The Office of Public Works is aware that a number of pedestrians tend to use the cycle lanes in the Phoenix park despite the fact that the cycle lanes are clearly indicated both by bicycle symbols imprinted on them and a unique green colour which clearly distinguishes them from the separate black pedestrian paths. A number of initiatives have been introduced to promote greater public awareness.

Tax Code.

David Stanton

Question:

220 Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 238 of 26 September 2007 and No. 155 of 3 October 2007 the five most recent hospitals, nursing houses or other institutions approved by him under Section 469 of the Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997 which qualify for tax relief in respect of health expenses and which are not located in the State; the date when each institution was approved; the criteria used in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22876/07]

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance (Deputy Brian Cowen)

The five hospitals, nursing homes or others institutions which are not located in the State and which were most recently approved of for the purpose of heath expenses relief are as follows:

Name of Institution	Date of Approval
Gillett’s Children’s Hospital, Minesota, USA	10 May 2007
AZ Sint-Jan AV, Brugge, Belgium	3 January 2007
Avenues Clinic, Harare, Zimbabwe	14 September 2006
North Shore University Hospital, New York, USA	23 August 2006
F.I.V. Center, Madrid, Spain	26 April 2006

In each case, as required by section 469 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, the Department of Health and Children was consulted before the decision to approve of the institution. Each of the institutions now falls within the definition of "hospital" as contained in section 469.

Child Care Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

221 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when full information packs on the proposed NCIP community childcare subvention scheme 2008 to 2010 will be made available to community based childcare operators; if she will extend the deadline for applications to the new scheme in view of the lack of information currently available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22359/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Brendan Smith)

As signalled at the launch of the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), the successor programme to the EOCP, a new scheme to support community childcare services with a focus on disadvantage will be introduced on 1 January 2008 and will continue to complement the universal supports in place for all parents in the form of Child Benefit and the Early Childcare Supplement. The Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS) has been allocated €153 million over the next 3 years representing a 16% increase in funding over the EOCP staffing scheme. Under the new scheme, services will be grant aided according to the service they provide and the profile of the parents benefiting from their service. In turn, the subvention received by the services will be reflected in the reduced fees for parents who qualify as disadvantaged under the scheme.

Following the Government decision in July 2007 to adopt the new Scheme, officials in my Office wrote to all of the community childcare services in receipt of existing grant support to advise them of the changes being introduced and inviting them to attend information seminars which were arranged in a number of venues around the country for late September and early October. These have taken place and have provided very useful feedback. The details of the new scheme, the rates of subvention which will be available to community childcare services in respect of disadvantaged parents, and the timeframe within which the new arrangements are being implemented, were also outlined. The information seminars are being followed up by updated information packs, which take account of some of the issues raised and responded to at the seminars. These are expected to issue shortly along with the forms which the services will need to complete as part of the application process.

Under the new scheme, parents with children in such services and in receipt of most social welfare payments (or participating in a scheme such as Community Employment which demonstrates an underlying entitlement to same) will see a €80 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions in respect of shorter hour services). Parents in receipt of Family Income Supplement (FIS), will see a €30 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions). A further subvention of €30 per week will be paid where the subvented child is a baby, in recognition of the higher costs associated with the care of children aged under 1 year. Parents who do not qualify under either of these categories will be charged the cost price for their childcare service, however, as community not-for-profit services will, generally, have availed of capital grant aid under the EOCP or NCIP removing the requirement to cover rent and/or a mortgage, and as the services are run on a not-for-profit basis, this should still be significantly below the market price.

In practice, this will mean that parents with children in such services and in receipt of most social welfare payments (or participating in a scheme such as Community Employment which demonstrates an underlying entitlement to same) will see a €80 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions in respect of shorter hour services). Parents in receipt of Family Income Supplement (FIS), will see a €30 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions). A further subvention of €30 per week will be paid where the subvented child is a baby, in recognition of the higher costs associated with the care of children aged under 1 year. Parents who do not qualify under either of these categories will be charged the cost price for their childcare service, however, as community not-for-profit services will, generally, have availed of capital grant aid under the EOCP or NCIP removing the requirement to cover rent and/or a mortgage, and as the services are run on a not-for-profit basis, this should still be significantly below the market price.

It is considered that the new scheme will provide an effective framework for the continued targeting of additional resources towards disadvantaged parents and their children while continuing to support community childcare services generally. The scheme has been informed by and takes account of a number of enhancements recommended by the report of the Value for Money Review of the EOCP. These include the fact that the subvention to services will be more responsive to the level of service provided as well as the degree of parental disadvantage supported and the ceiling for funding, which existed under the previous scheme, is being removed. Account will also be taken of all of the operational costs of the service rather than staffing costs alone. Services, including full-time, part-time and sessional ones, which at present are, in some cases, inaccessibly priced for disadvantaged parents, will be available to them at more appropriate rates under the new scheme.

The new scheme has clear advantages over its predecessor. There is an increase in the level of funding available under it, and a majority of services will benefit from the changes it introduces. Transitional arrangements have been made under which existing grant recipients will continue to be funded at their current levels until 1st July 2008. This is to ensure that existing childcare services are facilitated to adjust to the new scheme, including making any adjustments necessary to their fee structures. As signalled when I announced the new scheme in July this year, the transitional period between now and 1 July 2008 will also be used to monitor and review the impact it will have on individual groups, on the basis of the more detailed and comprehensive data which is due to be received from applicants in November. If appropriate, any adjustments necessary to secure the best outcomes for childcare services and for disadvantaged parents and their children will be considered on the basis of this data and well in advance of the commencement of the new funding levels in July 2008.

Enda Kenny

Question:

226 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the change in the funding mechanism for community crèches; if she will provide details of the timing, rationale and the impact of these changes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22631/07]

Michael Creed

Question:

227 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the changes envisaged in the funding of community childcare facilities; if he will elaborate on the NCIP subvention scheme; the consultations that have taken place with community organisations in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22668/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Brendan Smith)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 226 and 227 together.

Under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 (EOCP), which is co-funded under the EU Social Fund (ESF), targeted support was provided through the staffing support grant scheme whereby community based not-for-profit childcare providers with a strong focus on disadvantage were awarded grant aid towards their staffing costs to allow them to operate reduced fees to disadvantaged parents. Funding under this scheme was originally awarded for a limited period during which services were expected to move towards sustainability. This funding was subsequently continued to the end of 2007, where it was considered necessary to enable services to continue to make their services accessible to disadvantaged parents. This continuation funding was subject to the condition that tiered fee structures were implemented by the services in question.

As signalled at the launch of the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), the successor programme to the EOCP, a new scheme to support community childcare services with a focus on disadvantage will be introduced on 1 January 2008 and will continue to complement the universal supports in place for all parents. The Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS) has been allocated €153 million over the next 3 years representing a 16% increase in funding over the EOCP staffing scheme. Under the new scheme, services will be grant aided according to the service they provide and the profile of the parents benefiting from their service. In turn, the subvention received by the services will be reflected in the reduced fees for parents who qualify as disadvantaged under the scheme.

In practice, this will mean that parents with children in such services and in receipt of most social welfare payments (or participating in a scheme such as Community Employment which demonstrates an underlying entitlement to same) will see a €80 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions in respect of shorter hour services). Parents in receipt of Family Income Supplement (FIS), will see a €30 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions). A further subvention of €30 per week will be paid where the subvented child is a baby, in recognition of the higher costs associated with the care of children aged under 1 year. Parents who do not qualify under either of these categories will be charged the cost price for their childcare service, however, as community not-for-profit services will, generally, have availed of capital grant aid under the EOCP or NCIP removing the requirement to cover rent or a mortgage, and as the services are run on a not-for-profit basis, this should still be significantly below the market price.

It is considered that the new scheme will provide an effective framework for the continued targeting of additional resources towards disadvantaged parents and their children while continuing to support community childcare services generally. The scheme has been informed by and takes account of a number of enhancements recommended by the report of the Value for Money Review of the EOCP. These include the fact that the subvention to services will be more responsive to the level of service provided as well as the degree of parental disadvantage supported and the ceiling for funding, which existed under the previous scheme, is being removed. Account will also be taken of all of the operational costs of the service rather than staffing costs alone. Services, including full-time, part-time and sessional ones, which at present are, in some cases, inaccessibly priced for disadvantaged parents, will be available to them at more appropriate rates under the new scheme.

The new scheme has clear advantages over its predecessor. There is an increase in the level of funding available under it, and a majority of services will benefit from the changes it introduces. Existing EOCP staffing grant recipients who enter the new scheme will continue to be funded at their current levels until July 2008. My Office has engaged in a series of meetings with existing grant recipients to outline to them the details of the new scheme and to gather feedback from the services themselves. A meeting with representatives of the City and County Childcare Committees has also taken place.

Transitional arrangements have been made under which existing grant recipients will continue to be funded at their current levels until 1st July 2008. This is to ensure that existing childcare services are facilitated to adjust to the new scheme, including making any adjustments necessary to their fee structures. As signalled when I announced the new scheme in July this year, the transitional period between now and 1 July 2008 will also be used to monitor and review the impact it will have on individual groups, on the basis of the more detailed and comprehensive data which is due to be received from applicants in November. If appropriate, any adjustments necessary to the scheme to secure the best outcomes for childcare services and for disadvantaged parents and their children will be considered on the basis of this data and well in advance of the commencement of the new funding levels in July 2008.

Medical Cards.

John Perry

Question:

228 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of a medical card appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22782/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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 moderate and lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP.

Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29% and in addition allowance is now made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, childcare and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed 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 the Deputy.

Hospital Services.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

229 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the cat scanner in the Louth County Hospital; the date it was purchased; the date installed and made operational; the use of this machine since then and the dates thereof; the number of staff needed to operate this unit and their qualifications and cost to date; the maintenance cost to date of this machine; the nature of contracts entered into in relation to the scanner; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22926/07]

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

287 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the cat scanner in the Louth County Hospital; the date it was purchased; the date installed and made operational; the use of this machine since then and the dates thereof; the number of staff needed to operate this unit and their qualifications and cost to date; the maintenance cost to date of this machine; the nature of contracts entered into in relation to the scanner; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22881/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 229 and 287 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.

General Medical Services Scheme.

My Department and the HSE have been reviewing the pharmaceutical supply chain, with a view to seeking value for money in the State's drugs bill in order to better fund existing and innovative therapies without compromising continuity of supply or patient safety. An HSE-led negotiating team, including officials from my Department, engaged with the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) and the Association of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers of Ireland (APMI), representing the proprietary and generic supplier representative bodies, and completed new agreements with these bodies in mid-2006. These agreements are in place.

As wholesale margins are not addressed in the new IPHA and APMI Agreements, it was intended to negotiate direct formal arrangements with the wholesale sector. Following completion of the manufacturer agreements, the negotiating team entered talks with the wholesaler representative body, the Pharmaceutical Distributor's Federation (PDF).

Early in discussions, PDF refused to negotiate a new margin for community supply, based on its own legal advice that this was a contractual matter between individual wholesalers and retailers. Subsequent legal advice to the HSE, confirmed by legal advice to my Department, indicated that, under section 4 of the 2002 Competition Act, PDF as an association of undertakings may not collectively negotiate fees, prices or margins on behalf of its members. Given the fact that the Irish Pharmaceutical Union (IPU) is also an association of undertakings, it is not possible for the State to negotiate with PDF or the IPU on fees or margins as such negotiations would place these bodies at risk of prosecution.

In light of the legal position arising from the wholesaler legal advice, the negotiating team re-considered how best to address the review of pharmaceutical supply. Based on the legal advice, a consultation process accompanied by independent economic analysis was considered the most appropriate means to allow for the determination of new reimbursement arrangements. The consultation process involved direct discussion with wholesaler companies and a call for public submissions, published on 20th December 2006, in response to which a total of 161 submissions (including 143 from community pharmacy contractors) were received.

Following the completion of public consultation, and informed by independent economic analysis, new reimbursement arrangements were announced by the HSE on 17th September 2007. The new price arrangements involved revised rates for community and hospital supply as follows:

Community supply — existing 17.66% wholesale margin reduced to 8% from 1st January 2008 and 7% from 1st January 2009;

Hospital supply — new interim margin of 5% from 1st January 2008 with further discounts for efficient ordering and supply in that sector.

The new arrangements apply equally to the GMS (medical card) and the community drugs schemes (DPS, LTI). The new arrangements do not apply to the Methadone scheme, which is a separate dispensing arrangement with pharmacists for the treatment of a particularly vulnerable group of patients. No formal notifications have been received that individual pharmacists are terminating either their GMS/community pharmacy contracts or their agreements under the Methodone scheme.

In its examination of the issues involved, the negotiating team considered a reimbursement level that reflects the market value of pharmaceutical wholesale services, and security and continuity of supply at current levels to patients. The evidence on which the decision is based, following examination of the issues, direct consultation and independent economic analysis, all indicates that the State is currently paying a premium for the services in question. It is possible and necessary for revised arrangements to be put in place without a substantial impact on the delivery of such services.

Information available to the negotiating team indicates that small and rural pharmacies typically receive discounts of 2-3% on the existing wholesale margin, while larger urban pharmacies and chains typically receive discounts of up to 12%. Therefore, smaller and rural pharmacies would be proportionately less affected by the revised arrangements.

In the light of the legal advice received, and following consultation with the IPU, a separate procedure was also agreed to examine available options for advancing contractual negotiations in compliance with Irish and EU competition law. This process is being chaired by Mr Bill Shipsey, SC.

The negotiating team met with the IPU on the 3rd October to discuss implementation issues arising from the recent announcement of new wholesaler arrangements. Both sides agreed to continue to meet under the auspices of Bill Shipsey SC, to discuss the IPU's concerns on contractual matters, within the legal constraints.

The negotiating team also had a constructive meeting with PDF on 8th October to discuss implementation issues arising from the new wholesaler arrangements.

Medical Cards.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

232 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm receipt of a medical card application by persons (details supplied) in County Laois; when a decision will be made on the application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22265/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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 moderate and lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP.

Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29% and in addition allowance is now made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, childcare and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed 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 the Deputy.

Hospital Services.

John O'Mahony

Question:

233 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding the building of a specialised cystic fibrosis unit at Saint Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin; the position in relation to the staffing of that unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22266/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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.

Health Service Allowances.

Shane McEntee

Question:

234 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason an appeal for domiciliary care allowance by a person (details supplied) in County Meath was turned down; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22301/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Jimmy Devins)

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal services, which are the responsibliltiy 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.

Nursing Homes Repayment Scheme.

Pat Breen

Question:

235 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when an application will be processed for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22345/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.

My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.

Eating Disorders.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

236 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress to date on the implementation of each of the eight specific recommendations in relation to improving service provision for those affected by eating disorders contained within A Vision for Change; and her plans and timescale for their full implementation. [22348/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Jimmy Devins)

The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled "A Vision for Change", was launched in January 2006. It provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over a 7 to 10 year period. "A Vision for Change" acknowledges gaps in the current provision of services for people with eating disorders and makes several recommendations for the further improvement of these services.

Recommendations include support for health promotion initiatives that encourage greater community and family awareness of eating disorders, the further development of primary and community care services and the provision of a full multidisciplinary team in a National Centre for Eating Disorders for complex cases that cannot be managed by local child and adolescent community mental health teams. Responsibility for the implementation of these recommendations rests with the HSE.

In 2006, €26.2 million was allocated for the development of mental health services in line with "A Vision for Change". An additional €25 million has been provided to the HSE in 2007, €750,000 of which is for developing services for eating disorders.

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the HSE under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The Executive, therefore, is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Medical Cards.

John Deasy

Question:

237 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the difficulties that have arisen as a result of the dispute between private dentists and the Health Service Executive where medical card holders can no longer access dental treatment on their medical cards and the financial strain this has placed on people in need of treatment; the action she is taking to ensure that this dispute is resolved quickly; when she expects the matter to be resolved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22355/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The Dental Treatment Service Scheme (DTSS) provides for a range of dental services for adult medical card holders from participating dentists holding contracts with the Health Service Executive (HSE).

The DTSS Review Group was established in May 2006 to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services provided under the DTSS. Represented on the Review Group are the HSE, the Health Service Employers Agency, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Department of Finance and the Irish Dental Association (IDA). The Group is chaired by Mr Finbar Flood.

Since the Group was established, a legal issue has arisen with regard to the Competition Act 2002 as it relates to the negotiation of professional fees. The issues involved are complex and my officials are working with the Attorney General's office to clarify the way forward.

The existing contractual arrangements with private dental practitioners under the DTSS for provision of dental services to eligible patients remain in place although I am aware that some dentists have indicated that they wish to resign from this scheme. It should be noted that dentists withdrawing from the scheme are obliged to work a three months notice period.

If an eligible patient cannot access the services of a dentist because the dentist has resigned from the DTSS, that patient may approach any dentist within the Scheme for treatment.

Health Services.

John Deasy

Question:

238 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will grant approval for funding to the Health Service Executive to allow the development of a five station haemodialysis satellite treatment facility at Tramore, County Waterford which will facilitate holidaymakers and can be used year round for the treatment of patients living in the locality; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22356/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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.

Departmental Staff.

Seán Barrett

Question:

239 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Health and Children the number employed in her Department; the amount expended on their salaries and its percentage of overall Departmental spending from a value for money perspective; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22357/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The whole time equivalent number of staff employed in my Department at the end of September 2007 was 592.92. This figure includes staff employed in: my Department, including the Office of the Minister for Children, the General Register Office, the Adoption Board, Office of the Ombudsman for Children, Office of the Disability Appeals Officer.

My Department estimates that €36.163 million will be spent on salaries, wages and other allowances during 2007. This figure represents 3.5% of the total Vote for my Department and the Office of the Minister for Children. My Department is constantly reviewing and monitoring such costs in order to ensure that the best value for money is obtained. Change management initiatives are on-going in order to continue to meet the modernisation and flexibility agenda required of my Department. This is specifically encompassed by the Partnership Agreement Towards 2016.

Question No. 240 answered with QuestionNo. 230.

Medical Cards.

Liz McManus

Question:

241 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children if she plans to double the income threshold limits for the full medical card for families with children under six in Budget 2008 as agreed in the Programme for Government; the estimated cost of this measure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22366/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The Programme for Government commits to:

Indexing the income thresholds for medical cards to increases in the average industrial wage;

Doubling of the income limit eligibility of parents of children under 6 years of age, and trebling them for parents of children under 18 years of age with an intellectual disability;

Implementation of an annual publicity campaign and making applications easier so as to increase uptake amongst those who are eligible for medical cards and GP visit cards;

Allowing people with disabilities to work without losing key essential medical card cover after 3 years.

My Department is at present considering the steps required to enable these commitments to be implemented. This work includes consideration of the timescale for implementation and the costs involved.

Liz McManus

Question:

242 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on doubling the income threshold limits for the full medical card for families with children between seven and seventeen years of age; the estimated cost of this measure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22367/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The Programme for Government commits to doubling the income limit eligibility of parents of children under 6 years of age and trebling them for parents of children under 18 years of age with an intellectual disability. It commits also to an indexing of the income thresholds for medical cards to increases in the average industrial wage. My Department is at present considering the steps required to enable these commitments to be implemented. I have no plans at present to double the income threshold limits for families with children between seven and seventeen years of age generally and accordingly such a measure has not been costed by my Department.

My Department is also examining the steps necessary to give effect to the Towards 2016 commitment to review the eligibility criteria for the assessment of medical cards in the context of medical, social and economic/financial need with a view to clarifying entitlement to a medical card.

Question No. 243 answered with QuestionNo. 230.

Medicinal Products.

Liz McManus

Question:

244 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Health Service Executive have refused to purchase a new drug produced in Clondalkin, Dublin 22 that may prevent meningitis and septicaemia; if her attention has been drawn to fact that this drug is being exported to the North of Ireland, to Britain and to the USA; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22377/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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 have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health and Safety Issues.

Liz McManus

Question:

245 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children the regulations that exist to ensure standards in tattoo businesses; if there is an age restriction that applies to a tattooist giving tattoos to young children; the measures she will take to ensure public safety in this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22378/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

There is no legislation in Ireland specifically regulating tattooing businesses. However, these businesses are required to comply with general public health and safety legislation in the same way as any other business. The responsibilities of business operators include taking all reasonable precautions for the safety of persons using the premises. The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005 imposes a duty on employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety, health and welfare at work of employees. Employers are also obliged to manage and conduct their undertakings in such a way as to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that in the course of the work being carried on, individuals at the place of work, (not being employees), are not exposed to risks to their safety, health and welfare. In addition, under the Infectious Diseases Regulations 1981, a medical officer of health, or a health officer on the advice of a medical officer of health, is empowered where there is reason to believe that a suspected case of an infectious disease or a probable source of infection exists, to take such steps as are necessary or desirable for investigating the nature and source of such infection, for preventing the spread of such infection and for removing conditions favourable to infection.

The European Commission has initiated a project to assess the need for regulatory control of tattooing and body piercing and related activities. The Council of Europe has also adopted a resolution on tattoos and permanent make-up (PMU) which recommends the principles that member states should take into account in their national laws and regulations. The principles relate to the composition, microbiological purity and labelling of products used for tattooing and PMU, the conditions in which they are applied, and the need to inform the public and consumers of the health risks involved.

My Department is reviewing policy regarding tattooing and body piercing in the light of these developments. In the first instance, the focus is on the development of "good practice" guidelines for practitioners rather than regulation. The main objective of these guidelines is to encourage best hygiene practice by tattooists and piercers, thereby minimising the risk of infection and so protecting both the artists and clients. It is also intended to produce information for the general public about the possible risks attached to body-piercing and tattooing.

As tattooing is not regulated, there is no age restriction in place. However, this issue is being addressed in the context of the good practice guidelines for both tattooists and piercers. Draft guidelines have been produced and these drafts have been the subject of consultation within the health sector and the wider public sector. Further consideration of the issues involved is necessary before my Department will be in a position to bring the guidelines to completion. The intention is to have this work completed by the end of this year.

Question No. 246 answered with QuestionNo. 230.

Health Services.

Michael Ring

Question:

247 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the provision of dental services in a health centre in Ballinrobe; if the Health Service Executive have advertised this position; if a designated school dentist will be appointed in the Ballinrobe area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22394/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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.

Health Service Staff.

Eamon Scanlon

Question:

248 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of community dentists currently serving the population of an area (details supplied) in County Donegal; the efforts being made to expand the service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22396/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

249 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the recent embargo on recruitment into the health services, she will reassure the Houses of the Oireachtas and the public that this embargo will not have an adverse effect on frontline emergency services in particular the ambulance service. [22411/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The HSE National Management Team has developed a financial break-even plan aimed at remaining within its Vote for 2007. The plan includes a temporary pause in recruitment. Other features of this plan include cancelling all foreign travel for the remainder of the year, cancelling all domestic hotel bookings for the remainder of the year, and reviewing all non front-line expenditure to ensure that it is authorized at an appropriately senior level.

This pause in recruitment was reviewed by the HSE National Management Team on October 1st. Based on this review, the HSE has decided that the financial situation is such that it is necessary and prudent to continue the overall pause in recruitment to the end of October. However, the HSE recognises that there are some limited critical or exceptional circumstances where appointment of staff may be necessary in front-line services. Accordingly, the HSE has established a small group, chaired by a representative of the National Employment Monitoring Unit, and representatives of the National Hospitals Office, PCCC and other Directorates to evaluate, monitor and approve requests for derogation from the general recruitment pause. This group will consider such applications on a weekly basis during October 2007.

Additionally, as an interim measure, it has been decided that a derogation of the suspension in appointments should be made to facilitate the following service enhancements: staff recruited to establish and operate Cherry Orchard Community Nursing Units in Dublin; staff recruited as Case/Liaison Officers in respect of services for people with a disability; staff required to open a new Admissions Unit/Community Hostel for the Central Mental Hospital; and staff required to introduce the ‘Fair Deal' arrangements relating to Nursing Home Subventions for Older people. There are almost 130,000 people working in the public health system and the temporary pause in recruitment must be viewed in that context. The Board of the HSE is committed to ensuring that staff costs are controlled and managed to best effect, that an appropriate balance is achieved between clinical and non-clinical posts, that there is a better skill mix within the clinical areas and that staffing levels provide cost-effective and safe/quality care to patients. I share the concern of the HSE to ensure that patient care is not affected during the recruitment suspension. It is the HSE's clear intention that these measures, which involve 200-300 posts, will not impact on ‘front line' services, and it has made provision for critical or essential vacancies to be filled by re-deployment of existing staff.

The Deputy may wish to note that employment in the health service has already increased significantly in 2007. In fact, 2,500 new posts have been authorised by the HSE so far this year arising from new service developments contained in the National Service Plan 2007.

Ambulance Service.

Andrew Doyle

Question:

250 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the fact the ambulance service has been obliged to cancel the recruitment programme for 300 vacancies that have arisen due to retirement, she will justify the pressure this places on the overworked staff that are providing this essential front line service. [22412/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

Over 120,000 people work full-time or part-time in our public health services. In recent years, the Government's ongoing high level of investment in health has achieved and maintained significant increases in the number of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals employed in the public health services. The Government has also invested heavily in the education and training of such personnel in order to secure a good supply of graduates to provide for the healthcare needs of the population into the future.

Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of the Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. The Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.

Question No. 251 answered with QuestionNo. 225.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

252 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason that a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has been waiting over a year for a further operation; the reason they have to wait for Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda to operate on them; the reason they cannot have the operation at Castlebar Hospital; and if she will intervene urgently to secure an operation for them. [22428/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to 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 this case 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 their behalf to contact the Fund directly in relation to their case.

Child Care Services.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

253 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Health and Children the remaining difficulties with a childcare facility (details supplied) in County Westmeath which are preventing this facility receiving much needed finance; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a new committee in place and in charge of this facility and that this is a community facility serving a disadvantaged area; and if she will ensure that in the next round of funding much needed finance will be provided. [22429/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Brendan Smith)

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.

In relation to the Group in question, an interim staffing grant application under the NCIP was recently declined by the Secretary General as the proposal did not demonstrate a strong focus on disadvantage. In addition, there is an outstanding decommittal issue with the previous committee who operated from the same location. The Group have sought a review of this decision, however given the EOCP staffing scheme ends later this year and will be succeeded by the NCIP's Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCIS) on 1st January 2008, it may be that the best interests of the Group would be served by applying under the new scheme. I understand that contact has been made with the Group advising them of this option, and seeking guidance on how they would wish to proceed.

Question No. 254 answered with QuestionNo. 230.

Health Services.

Noel Grealish

Question:

255 Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money that has been awarded to each county in Health Service Executive west for home care packages via the HSE or through non statutory agencies; the number of cash grants that have been awarded in each county; the measures in place to follow-up on those who have received cash care grants in order to prevent and address the abuse of vulnerable older people, and to ensure that proper PRSI and PAYE statutory obligations have been met for employed carers through the home care package cash grant scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22453/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Máire Hoctor)

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 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.

Community Care.

Chris Andrews

Question:

256 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the decision to transfer cancer services from St Lukes to St James, she will give a commitment to maintain St Lukes as a community health care facility and an assurance that it will not be sold off; the time frame within which the future of St Luke’s will be made clear; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22455/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The transfer of services from St. Luke's Hospital to new facilities at St. James's Hospital is not due to take place for a number of years.

In the meantime, two additional linear accelerators will be commissioned at St. Luke's in early 2008 and two replacement linear accelerators will be commissioned later in 2008. These will provide much needed interim capacity pending the roll out of the National Plan for Radiation Oncology.

No decisions have yet been taken in relation to the future use of the site and facilities at St. Luke's. However, I intend to ensure that these resources are utilised in the best interest of the health services. .

Nursing Homes Repayment Scheme.

Chris Andrews

Question:

257 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate the delayed repayment under the Health Service Executive health repayments scheme for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8. [22459/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.

Question No. 258 answered with QuestionNo. 230.

Health Services.

James Bannon

Question:

259 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide funding for the provision of an Alzheimer’s residential unit at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Dublin Road, County Longford to provide facilities for the 385 people who have been diagnosed with the disease in Longford as currently the only facility available to them in the psychiatric hospital in Mullingar; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22464/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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 matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Question No. 260 answered with QuestionNo. 225.

Nursing Home Subventions.

The EOCP has both an equal opportunities and a social inclusion focus and aimed to increase the supply of centre based childcare places by 55 per cent (or 31,300 additional places) over the course of the Programme. This target has already been exceeded, with some 35,500 additional places already created under the Programme. The NCIP has a funding allocation of €575 million and aims to create an additional 50,000 new childcare places. It is expected that approximately 22,000 of these places will be in the private sector and 28,000 in the community/not for profit sector. Twenty per cent of the overall places will be for children in the 3 to 4 age group and will provide an early childhood care and education focus. As with the EOCP, the NCIP is a demand led scheme, with groups open to apply for funding from the Department through their local City/County Childcare Committees.

Experience gained under the EOCP has shown that it can be very difficult to accurately project how funding will be disbursed on a geographical basis over the duration of a programme. A number of factors come to bear in this regard, for example, the mix of private/community services in the locality, delays in acquiring planning permission or engaging building contractors, difficulties in securing other strands of funding and the general capacity of voluntary and community groups to deliver on large and often complicated projects.

However, the NCIP has a particular focus on identifying service gaps and matching supply and demand for services at the local level. In this regard, the City/County Childcare Committees have an important emerging role in planning and prioritising services in their locality. This new approach is intended to maximise the impact of funding at a local level delivering valuable services to families and better value for money.

The following tables provide details of funding allocated in Cork City and County under the EOCP and NCIP to date. It also includes funding for a number of regionally focused projects, commitments to National Voluntary Childcare Organisations and City and County Childcare Committees. As will be seen the total value of the funding allocated in Cork City and County amounts to €42.75 million under the EOCP and €13.4 million under the NCIP.

Funding Approved for Cork City and County under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 (EOCP)
Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Cork City
An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese / An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese	Pairc Bhaile ’n Easpaig, Baile ’n Easpaig, i gCorcaigh	Staffing	5,714
An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese / An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese	46 Corraheen Drive, Corraheen, Bishopstown, Cork	Capital	19,046
An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese / An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese	Scoil Therese, Bishopstown Park, Bishopstown, Cork	Staffing	21,091
An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese / An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese	Scoil Therese, Bishopstown Park, Bishopstown, Cork	Staffing	29,000
An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese / An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese	Scoil Therese, Bishopstown Park, Bishopstown, Cork	Staffing	85,200
An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese / An Bord Bainistiochta Scoil Therese	46 Corraheen Drive, Corraheen Estate, Bishopstown, Cork	Staffing	89,517
Ballyphehane/Togher Community Development Project Ltd. / Ballyphelane/Togher Community Development Project Ltd.	Community Resource Centre & Crèche, Lower Friar’s Walk, Ballyphehane, Cork City	Capital	40,000
Ballyphehane/Togher Community Development Project Ltd. / Ballyphelane/Togher Community Development Project Ltd.	Community Resource Centre & Crèche, Lower Friar’s Walk, Ballyphehane, Cork City	Staffing	128,800
Ballyphehane/Togher Community Development Project Ltd. / Ballyphelane/Togher Community Development Project Ltd.	Community Resource Centre & Crèche, Lower Friar’s Walk, Ballyphelane, Cork City	Staffing	158,717
Barnardos Ireland Ltd, Southern Region / Barnardos Ireland Ltd, Southern Region	The Bowling Green, White St.	Staffing	32,585
Barnardos Ireland Ltd, Southern Region / Barnardos Ireland Ltd, Southern Region	The Bowling Green, White St., Cork	Capital	1,188,236
Bee Happy Day Nursery / Bee Happy Day Nursery	47 Sarsfield Terrace, Old Youghal Road, Cork City	Capital	14,958
Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre / Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre	Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre, Churchfield Hill, Cork City	Capital	6,968
Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre / Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre	Churchfield Hill, Cork City	Staffing	40,068
Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre / Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre	Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre, Churchfield Hill, Cork City	Capital	57,138
Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre / Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre	Churchfield Hill, Cork City	Staffing	80,136
Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre / Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre	Churchfield Hill, Cork City, Cork	Staffing	82,321
Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre / Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre	Before 5 Nursery, Churchfield Hill, Cork	Staffing	87,824
Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre / Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre	Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre, Churchfield Hill, Cork City	Capital	172,287
Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre / Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre	Churchfield Hill, Cork City	Staffing	190,461
Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre / Before 5 Nursery & Family Centre	Churchfield Hill, Cork City	Staffing	322,600
Bessborough Centre / Bessborough Centre	Bessborough, Blackrock, Cork	Staffing	42,667
Bessborough Centre / Bessborough Centre	Bessborough, Blackrock, Cork	Staffing	48,000

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Bessborough Centre / Bessborough Centre	Bessborough, Blackrock	Staffing	170,400
Bessborough Centre / Bessborough Centre	Bessborough, Blackrock, Cork	Staffing	190,461
Bessborough Centre / Bessborough Centre	Bessborough Centre, Blackrock, Cork	Capital	1,210,385
Bishopstown Community Playgroup / Bishopstown Community Playgroup	Scoil Therese, Bishopstown, Cork	Capital	11,047
Bishopstown Community Playgroup / Bishopstown Community Playgroup	Scoil Therese, Bishopstown, Cork	Staffing	15,733
Bishopstown Community Playgroup / Bishopstown Community Playgroup	Scoil Therese, Bishopstown, Cork	Staffing	17,700
Bishopstown Community Playgroup / Bishopstown Community Playgroup	Scoil Therese, Bishopstown, Cork	Staffing	63,400
Bishopstown Community Playgroup / Bishopstown Community Playgroup	Scoil Therese, Bishopstown, Cork	Staffing	70,851
Blarney Street & Surrounding Areas Community Association / Blarney Street & Surrounding Areas Community Association	189 Blarney Street, Cork	Capital	19,046
Blarney Street & Surrounding Areas Community Association / Blarney Street & Surrounding Areas Community Association	Rock Community Centre, Blarney Street, Cork	Staffing	42,855
Blarney Street & Surrounding Areas Community Association / Blarney Street & Surrounding Areas Community Association	189 Blarney Street, Cork	Staffing	95,230
Bright Beginnings Montessori School / Bright Beginnings Montessori School	8 Carrigmahon, Monkstown, Cork	Capital	50,790
Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa / Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa	Bothar na mBuaircini, Baile Feithean, Corcaigh	Staffing	8,000
Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa / Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa	Bothar na mBuaircini, Baile Feithean, Corcaigh	Capital	12,399
Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa / Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa	Bothar na mBuaircini, Baile Feithean, Corcaigh	Staffing	16,507
Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa / Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa	Bothar na mBuaircini, Baile Feithean, Corcaigh	Staffing	21,333
Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa / Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa	Bothar na mBuaircini, Baile Feithean, Corcaigh	Staffing	32,000
Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa / Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa	Bothar na mBuaircini, Baile Feithean, Corcaigh	Staffing	85,900
Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa / Coiste Naionra an Teaghlaigh Naofa	Bothar na mBuaircini, Baile Feithean, Corcaigh	Staffing	173,954
Colaiste Stiofan Naofa / Colaiste Stiofan Naofa	Tramore Road, Cork	Staffing	31,746
Colaiste Stiofan Naofa / Colaiste Stiofan Naofa	Tramore Road, Cork	Staffing	42,328
Colaiste Stiofan Naofa / Colaiste Stiofan Naofa	Tramore Road, Cork	Staffing	170,400
Colaiste Stiofan Naofa / Colaiste Stiofan Naofa	Colaiste Stiofan Naofa, Tramore Road, Cork	Staffing	190,461
Colaiste Stiofan Naofa / Colaiste Stiofan Naofa	Tramore Road, Cork	Capital	771,995
Comhair Chathair Chorcai / Comhair Chathair Chorcai	Sunbeam Industrial Park, Millfield, Mallow Rd., Cork	Other	27,617
Community Women’s Education Initiatives Ltd. / Community Women’s Education Initiatives Ltd.	19 Lower John Street, Cork	Staffing	55,900
Community Women’s Education Initiatives Ltd. / Community Women’s Education Initiatives Ltd.	Ionad na Mban, 24 North Mall, Cork	Capital	104,036
Community Women’s Education Initiatives Ltd. / Community Women’s Education Initiatives Ltd.	19 Lower John Street, Cork	Staffing	152,369

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork City	Other	3,000
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	8,675
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	17,500
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork City	Other	29,900
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	35,000
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	35,000
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	35,000
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork City	Other	35,000
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork City	Other	35,000
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	46,770
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	48,900
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork City	Other	59,800
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	63,000
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork City	Other	114,219
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	177,763
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	196,200
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	222,411
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork City	Other	228,781
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork City	Other	238,500
Cork City Childcare Committee / Cork City Childcare Committee	29 Penrose Wharf, Cork	Other	249,200
Cork Institute of Technology / Cork Institute of Technology	Rossa Avenue, Bishopstown, Cork	Capital	700,000
Cork Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten / Cork Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten	C/o Quaker Meeting House, Summerhill South	Staffing	79,900
Cork Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten / Cork Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten	20 The Maples, Bridgemount, Carrigaline, Cork	Staffing	95,230
Cro na nOg / Cro na nOg	7 The Maples, Ballinure Road, Mahon, Cork	Staffing	38,000
Cro na nOg / Cro na nOg	7 The Maples, Ballinure Road, Mahon, Cork	Staffing	64,000
Cro na nOg / Cro na nOg	7 The Maples, Ballinure Road, Mahon, Cork	Staffing	88,400
Cuddles Crèche / Cuddles Crèche	College of Commerce & St. John’s Central College, Morrisons Island, Cork	Staffing	14,100
Cuddles Crèche / Cuddles Crèche	College of Commerce & St. John’s Central College, Morrisons Island, Cork	Staffing	28,200
Cuddles Crèche / Cuddles Crèche	College of Commerce & St. John’s Central College, Morrisons Island, Cork	Staffing	39,100

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Cuddles Crèche / Cuddles Crèche	College of Commerce & St. John’s Central College, Morrisons Island, Cork	Staffing	113,600
Cuddles Crèche / Cuddles Crèche	Cork College of Commerce, Morrisons Island, Cork	Staffing	126,974
Cuddles Crèche / Cuddles Crèche	College of Commerce & St. John’s Central College, Morrisons Island, Cork	Capital	1,000,000
Doodlebugs Crèche and Montessori Limited / Doodlebugs Crech and Montessori Limited	Pembroke Wood, Passage West, Cork	Capital	50,790
East Cork Area Development / East Cork Area Development	Knockgriffin Community Ent Centre, Mildeton, East Cork	Other	74,250
Farranree Childcare Unit / Farranree Childcare Unit	11 Park Dale, Parklands, Commons Rd, Cork	Staffing	10,810
Farranree Childcare Unit / Farranree Childcare Unit	11 Park Dale, Parklands, Commons Rd, Cork	Capital	46,277
Farranree Childcare Unit / Farranree Childcare Unit	11 Park Dale, Parklands, Commons Rd, Cork	Staffing	116,100
Farranree Childcare Unit / Farranree Childcare Unit	29 Bridevalley View, Fairhill, Cork City	Staffing	129,723
Farranree Development Company Ltd / Farranree Community Development Project & Resource Centre	98 Knockpogue Avenue, Farranree, Cork City	Capital	587,900
First Steps / First Steps	Kilcor, Castlelyons, Cork	Capital	15,544
First Steps / First Steps	4 Marrick, Halcon Drive, Silversprings, Cork	Capital	15,993
Gaelscoil Mhachan / Gaelscoil Mhachan	Avenue de Rennes, Machan, An Charraig Dhubh, Corcaigh	Capital	224,000
Good Shepherd Services Ltd / Good Shepherd Services Ltd	C/o. Good Shepherd Sisters, Sunday’s Well, Cork	Capital	728,000
Greenfields Community Childcare Ltd / Glenfield Community Childcare Limtied	Glenfields, Ballyvolane, Cork	Capital	63,874
Greenfields Community Childcare Ltd / Glenfield Community Childcare Limtied	Glenfields, Ballyvolane, Cork	Staffing	127,000
Greenmount Community Playgroup Limited / Greenmount Voluntary Playgroup	Scoil Nasiunta Muire na Gras, Green Street, Cork	Capital	12,369
Greenmount Community Playgroup Limited / Greenmount Voluntary Playgroup	Scoil Nasiunta Muire na Gras, Green Street, Cork	Staffing	24,689
Greenmount Community Playgroup Limited / Greenmount Voluntary Playgroup	Scoil Nasiunta Muire na Gras, Green Street, Cork	Staffing	113,600
Greenmount Community Playgroup Limited / Greenmount Voluntary Playgroup	Hill View, Lough Hill, The Lough, Cork	Staffing	126,974
Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre / Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre	Harbour View Road, Knocknaheeny, Cork City	Staffing	26,900
Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre / Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre	Harbour View Road, Knocknaheeny, Cork City	Staffing	53,800
Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre / Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre	Harbour View Road, Knocknaheeny, Cork City	Staffing	216,300
Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre / Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre	Harbour View Road, Knocknaheeny, Cork	Staffing	241,809
Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre / Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre	Harbour View Road, Knocknaheeny, Cork City	Capital	487,784
Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre / Hollyhill/Knocknaheeny Family Centre	Harbour View Road, Knocknaheeny, Cork City	Capital	1,100,000
Holy Cross Crèche /Drop in centre / Holy Cross Crèche /Drop in centre	Holy Cross B.N.S., Avenue do Rennes, Mahon	Staffing	30,400
Holy Cross Crèche /Drop in centre / Holy Cross Crèche /Drop in centre	Holy Cross B.N.S., Avenue do Rennes, Mahon, Cork	Staffing	60,000
Kinsale Community Playschool / Kinsale Community Playschool	C/o. St. John’s National School, Ballincubby, Kinsale	Staffing	43,300

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Little Imps Childcare Limited / Nurture Childcare (Douglas Rd)	Unit 4, Ardfallen Mall, Douglas Road, Cork	Capital	50,790
Little Lullaby Nursery / Little Lullaby Nursery	Ard Bhaile & Glenamoy Lawn Community Centre, Ard Bhaile, Mayfield	Staffing	12,700
Little Lullaby Nursery / Little Lullaby Nursery	Ard Bhaile & Glenamoy Lawn Community Centre, Ard Bhaile, Mayfield	Staffing	123,600
Little Lullaby Nursery / Little Lullaby Nursery	Ard Bhaile & Glenamoy Lawn Community Centre, Ard Bhaile, Mayfield, Cork	Staffing	152,369
Little Munchkins Childcare Academy / Little Munchkins Childcare Academy	6 The Mews, Riverway, South Douglas Road, Cork	Capital	50,790
Lotamore Family Resource Centre Group / Lotamore Family Resource Centre Group	20 Lotamore Park, Banduff, Mayfield, Cork	Staffing	32,000
Lotamore Family Resource Centre Group / Lotamore Family Resource Centre Group	20 Lotamore Park, Mayfield	Staffing	53,900
Lotamore Family Resource Centre Group / Lotamore Family Resource Centre Group	20 Lotamore Park, Mayfield	Staffing	64,000
Lotamore Family Resource Centre Group / Lotamore Family Resource Centre Group	20 Lotamore Park, Banduff, Mayfield, Co. Cork	Capital	104,395
Magnet / Magnet	C/o. St. Brendan’s School, The Glen, Cork	Staffing	30,900
Magnet / Magnet	C/o. St. Brendan’s School, The Glen, Cork	Capital	232,594
Mahon CDP Community Crèche / Mahon Community Crèche and Child Development Centre	Unit 5&6&7 Community Resource Centre, Avenue de Rennes, Mahon	Staffing	26,450
Mahon CDP Community Crèche / Mahon Community Crèche and Child Development Centre	Unit 5&6&7 Community Resource Centre, Avenue de Rennes, Mahon	Capital	166,693
Mahon CDP Community Crèche / Mahon Community Crèche and Child Development Centre	Unit 5&6&7 Community Resource Centre, Avenue de Rennes, Mahon	Staffing	170,400
Mahon CDP Community Crèche / Mahon Community Crèche and Child Development Centre	Unit 5&6&7 Community Resource Centre, Avenue de Rennes, Mahon, Cork	Staffing	190,461
Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre / Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre	The Orchard, Mahon	Staffing	37,000
Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre / Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre	The Orchard, Mahon	Staffing	42,286
Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre / Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre	The Orchard, Mahon	Capital	100,000
Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre / Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre	The Orchard, Mahon	Staffing	170,400
Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre / Mahon Community Preschool & Child Development Centre	Mahon Community Pre school, The Orchard, Mahon, Cork	Staffing	190,461

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Mahon Family Resource Centre Ltd. / Mahon Family Resource Centre Ltd.	Mahon Drive, Mahon, Cork	Staffing	151,700
Mahon Family Resource Centre Ltd. / Mahon Family Resource Centre Ltd.	Mahon Drive, Mahon, Cork	Capital	431,711
Mahon Family Resource Centre Ltd. / Mahon Family Resource Centre Ltd.	Mahon Drive, Mahon, Cork	Capital	463,454
Maria Assumpta Preschool / Maria Assumpta Preschool	Coolalta, Lower Friars Walk, Cork	Capital	23,794
Maria Assumpta Preschool / Maria Assumpta Preschool	Coolalta, Lower Friars Walk, Cork	Capital	26,776
Maria Assumpta Preschool / Maria Assumpta Preschool	Coolalta, Lower Friars Walk, Cork	Staffing	117,000
Maria Assumpta Preschool / Maria Assumpta Preschool	Collalta, Lower Friars Walk, Cork	Capital	130,986
Maria Assumpta Preschool / Maria Assumpta Preschool	6 Halldene Way, Bishopstown, Co. Cork	Staffing	190,461
Mayfield Integrated Community Development Project Ltd / Mayfield Integrated Community Development Project Ltd	Community Resource Centre, 328 Old Youghal Road, Mayfield	Capital	51,543
Mayfield Integrated Community Development Project Ltd / Mayfield Integrated Community Development Project Ltd	Community Resource Centre, 328 Old Youghal Road, Mayfield	Staffing	55,500
Mayfield Integrated Community Development Project Ltd / Mayfield Integrated Community Development Project Ltd	Community Resource Centre, 328 Old Youghal Road, Mayfield	Capital	94,822
Montessori An Spioraid Naoimh / Montessori Spioraid Naoimh	Scoil an Spioraid Naoimh, Curraheen Road, Bishopstown, Cork	Capital	22,415
Naionra Lus na Meala / Naionra Lus na Meala	67 Lus na Meala, Banduff, Mayfield, Cork	Staffing	16,000
Naionra Lus na Meala / Naionra Lus na Meala	67 Lus na Meala, Banduff, Mayfield, Cork	Staffing	87,700
Newbury House Family Centre Ltd. / Newbury House Family Centre Ltd.	Old Youghal Road, Mayfield, Cork	Capital	12,697
Newbury House Family Centre Ltd. / Newbury House Family Centre Ltd.	Old Youghal Road, Mayfield, Cork	Capital	15,237
Newbury House Family Centre Ltd. / Newbury House Family Centre Ltd.	Old Youghal Road, Mayfield	Staffing	16,250
Newbury House Family Centre Ltd. / Newbury House Family Centre Ltd.	Old Youghal Road, Mayfield	Staffing	43,328
Newbury House Family Centre Ltd. / Newbury House Family Centre Ltd.	Old Youghal Road, Mayfield	Staffing	65,000
Newbury House Family Centre Ltd. / Newbury House Family Centre Ltd.	Old Youghal Road, Mayfield	Staffing	174,500
Newbury House Family Centre Ltd. / Newbury House Family Centre Ltd.	Old Youghal Road, Mayfield, Cork	Staffing	304,737
Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd. / Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd.	Sunbeam Industrial Estate, Mallow Road, Cork	Capital	30,256
Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd. / Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd.	Sunbeam Industrial Park, Millfield, Mallow Road, Cork	Staffing	33,860
Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd. / Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd.	Sunbeam Industrial Park, Millfield, Mallow Road, Cork	Staffing	67,720
Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd. / Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd.	Sunbeam Industrial Estate, Mallow Road, Cork	Capital	86,596
Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd. / Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd.	Sunbeam Industrial Park, Millfield, Mallow Road, Cork	Staffing	272,600

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd. / Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd.	Sunbeam Industrial Park, Millfield, Mallow Road, Cork	Capital	300,000
Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd. / Northside Community Enterprise Ltd./ N.C.E. Outreach Ltd.	Sunbeam Industrial Estate, Mallow Road, Cork	Staffing	304,737
Playland / Playland	C/o. 10 Aisling Close, Ballincollig, Co. Cork	Staffing	32,000
Playland / Playland	St. Mary’s on the Hill National School, Knocknaheeny	Staffing	36,000
Playland / Playland	St. Mary’s on the Hill National School, Knocknaheeny	Staffing	45,000
Roseville House Family Resourse Centre / Mayfield Community Pre-School	Roseville House Family Resource Centre, Old Youghal Road, Mayfield, Cork	Staffing	20,000
Roseville House Family Resourse Centre / Mayfield Community Pre-School	Roseville House Family Resource Centre, Old Youghal Road, Mayfield, Cork	Capital	24,500
Roseville House Family Resourse Centre / Mayfield Community Pre-School	Roseville Family Resource Limited, Old Youghal Road, Mayfield, Cork	Staffing	29,300
Roseville House Family Resourse Centre / Mayfield Community Pre-School	Roseville House Family Resource Centre, Old Youghal Road, Mayfield, Cork	Staffing	108,521
Scoil Maria Assumpta Senior School / Scoil Maria Assumpta Senior School	Pearse Road, Ballyphehane, Cork	Staffing	27,200
Scoil Maria Assumpta Senior School / Scoil Maria Assumpta Senior School	Pearse Road, Ballyphehane, Cork	Capital	40,500
Scoil Maria Assumpta Senior School / Scoil Maria Assumpta Senior School	Pearse Road, Ballyphehane, Cork	Staffing	96,000
Scoil Ursula Crèche / Scoil Ursula Crèche	Scoil Ursula, Blackrock	Staffing	30,400
Scoil Ursula Crèche / Scoil Ursula Crèche	Scoil Ursula, Blackrock, Cork	Staffing	60,000
Shandon/North Cathedral Community Association Ltd. / Shandon/North Cathedral Community Association Ltd.	Jack Lynch Community Resource Centre, 11a Easons Avenue, Shandon, Cork	Capital	34,708
Silversprings Community Playschool / Silversprings Community Playschool	C/o. 21 Millbrook Close, Sallybrook, Glanmire, Cork	Staffing	135,000
St. Anne’s Day Nursery Ltd / Cork & Ross Family Centre	34 Paul Street, Cork	Staffing	8,417
St. Anne’s Day Nursery Ltd / Cork & Ross Family Centre	St. Anne’s Day Nursery Ltd.,, Sharman Crawford Street,, Cork	Capital	11,428
St. Anne’s Day Nursery Ltd / Cork & Ross Family Centre	34 Paul Street, Cork	Staffing	67,333
St. Anne’s Day Nursery Ltd / Cork & Ross Family Centre	34 Paul Street, Cork	Staffing	101,000
St. Anne’s Day Nursery Ltd / Cork & Ross Family Centre	34 Paul Street, Cork	Staffing	272,600
St. Anne’s Day Nursery Ltd / Cork & Ross Family Centre	St. Anne’s Day Nursery Ltd, Sharman Crawford Street, Cork	Staffing	304,737
St. Joseph’s (Mayfield) Community Association / St. Joseph’s (Mayfield) Community Association	Community Rooms, Old Youghal Road, Mayfield, Cork	Capital	116,000
St. Patrick’s Pre-school & After School Services / St. Patrick’s Pre-school & After School Services	St. Patrick’s Infant & Girls National School, Gardiner’s Hill, Cork	Staffing	51,750

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
St. Patrick’s Pre-school & After School Services / St. Patrick’s Pre-school & After School Services	St. Patrick’s Infant & Girls National School, Gardiner’s Hill, Cork	Capital	258,000
Susan Coughlan / Susan Coughlan	36 Moss Lane, Riverway, South Douglas Rd., Cork	Capital	36,593
The Glen Community Crèche Ltd. / Tir na nOg	109 Arderin Way, The Glen, Cork, Co. Cork	Staffing	42,333
The Glen Community Crèche Ltd. / Tir na nOg	109 Arderin Way, The Glen, Cork, Co. Cork	Staffing	63,500
The Glen Community Crèche Ltd. / Tir na nOg	109 Arderin Way, The Glen, Cork, Co. Cork	Staffing	170,400
Togher Family Centre Ltd. / Little Friar’s Pre-school	Lower Friar’s Walk, Ballyphehane, Cork City	Staffing	73,400
Togher Family Centre Ltd. / New Togher Childcare Initiative	Togher Boys & Girls Primary Schools, Togher Road, Cork City	Staffing	51,750
Togher Family Centre Ltd. / Togher Family Centre Ltd.	6 Maglin Grove, Deanrock Estate, Togher, Cork City	Staffing	67,667
Togher Family Centre Ltd. / Togher Family Centre Ltd.	6 Maglin Grove, Deanrock Estate, Togher, Cork City	Staffing	101,500
Togher Family Centre Ltd. / Togher Family Centre Ltd.	6 Maglin Grove, Deanrock Estate, Togher, Cork City	Staffing	272,600
Togher Family Centre Ltd. / Togher Family Centre Ltd.	6 Maglin Grove, Deanrock Estate, Togher, Cork City	Staffing	304,737
Traveller Visibility Group Limited / Traveller Visibility Group	11 Comeragh Park, The Glen, Cork	Staffing	85,000
Traveller Visibility Group Limited / Traveller Visibility Group	11 Comeragh Park, The Glen, Cork City	Capital	300,000
Traveller Visibility Group Limited / Traveller Visibility Group	25 Lower John Street, Cork City	Capital	428,537
Turners Cross Community Playgroup / Turner’s Cross Community Playgroup	25 Capwell Rd., Turner’s Cross, Cork	Staffing	10,000
Turners Cross Community Playgroup / Turner’s Cross Community Playgroup	25 Capwell Rd., Turner’s Cross, Cork	Staffing	26,667
Turners Cross Community Playgroup / Turner’s Cross Community Playgroup	25 Capwell Rd., Turner’s Cross, Cork	Capital	60,525
Turners Cross Community Playgroup / Turner’s Cross Community Playgroup	25 Capwell Rd., Turner’s Cross, Cork	Staffing	108,100
Turners Cross Community Playgroup / Turner’s Cross Community Playgroup	25 Capwell Rd., Turner’s Cross, Cork	Staffing	120,816
University College Cork / University College Cork	C/o Secretary’s Office, UCC, Western Rd., Cork	Capital	892,187
Vernon House Resource Centre / Vernon House Resource Centre	Mt. Vernon Cresent, South Douglas Rd., Cork	Capital	40,848
Vernon House Resource Centre / Vernon House Resource Centre	Mt. Vernon Cresent, South Douglas Rd., Cork	Staffing	50,000
Vernon House Resource Centre / Vernon House Resource Centre	Mount Vernon Cresent, South Douglas Rd.	Staffing	92,500
Vernon House Resource Centre / Vernon House Resource Centre	Mt. Vernon Cresent, South Douglas Rd., Cork	Staffing	100,000
Wallaroo Playschool Ltd. / Wallaroo Playschool Ltd.	10 Sunmount, Military Hill, Cork	Staffing	25,250
Wallaroo Playschool Ltd. / Wallaroo Playschool Ltd.	10 Sunmount, Military Hill, Cork	Staffing	33,595
Wallaroo Playschool Ltd. / Wallaroo Playschool Ltd.	10 Sunmount, Military Hill, Cork	Staffing	67,333
Wallaroo Playschool Ltd. / Wallaroo Playschool Ltd.	10 Sunmount, Military Hill, Cork	Staffing	101,000

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Wallaroo Playschool Ltd. / Wallaroo Playschool Ltd.	10 Sunmount, Military Hill, Cork	Staffing	271,120
Wallaroo Playschool Ltd. / Wallaroo Playschool Ltd.	10 Sunmount, Military Hill, Cork	Staffing	272,600
Wonderyears Kindergarten / Wonderyears Kindergarten	251 Eagle Valley, Sarsfield Road, Wilton	Capital	36,662
Young Women’s Group (A constituent member of Cork Anti-Poverty Resource Network Ltd) / Young Women’s Group (A constituent member of Cork Anti-Poverty Resource Network Ltd)	Ionad Na nDaoine, 36 Ardmore Avenue, Knocknaheeny	Capital	284,000
Cork City Total			27,888,669
A Breath of Fresh Air / A Breath of Fresh Air	Aghamarta, Carrigaline, Co. Cork	Capital	50,790
Aghada Community Playgroup / Aghada Community Playgroup	Scoil Iosagain, Upper Aghada, Midleton, Co. Cork	Staffing	33,700
Aghada Community Playgroup / Aghada Community Playgroup	Scoil Iosagain, Upper Aghada, Midleton, Co. Cork	Staffing	57,250
Aghada Community Playgroup / Aghada Community Playgroup	C/o. “Hadwell”, Lower Aghada, Midleton, Co Cork	Capital	84,931
Allihies Community Playgroup / Allihies Community Playgroup	Allihies Health Centre, Allihies, Beara, Co. Cork	Staffing	9,000
Allihies Community Playgroup / Allihies Community Playgroup	Allihies Health Centre, Allihies, Beara, Co. Cork	Staffing	45,000
ALPS (Ann Long’s Pre-school) / ALPS (Ann Long’s Pre-school)	Corbally Cross, Ballinora, Waterfall, Near Cork	Capital	50,790
Ardmore Family Resource Centre / Ardmore Family Resource Centre	Ardmore Estate, Passage West, Co. Cork	Capital	311,000
Avondhu Development Partnership / Avondhu Development Partnership	5-6 Park West, Mallow, Co Cork	Other	43,360
Ballygarvan ‘Tiny Tots’ Community Pre-school / Ballygarvan ‘Tiny Tots’ Community Pre-school	Ballygarvan GAA Hall, Ballygarvan	Capital	250,000
Ballyhass Community Childcare Facility / Ballyhass Community Childcare Facility	C/o Ballyrushion, Castlecor, Mallow	Capital	32,005
Ballyhass Community Childcare Facility / Ballyhass Community Childcare Facility	C/o Ballyrushion, Castlecor, Mallow, Co. Cork	Staffing	161,000
Ballyhass Community Childcare Facility / Ballyhass Community Childcare Facility	C/o Ballyrushion, Castlecor, Mallow, Co. Cork	Capital	1,475,379
Banteer Community Childcare Services Ltd / Banteer Community Childcare Services Ltd	Clonmeen Road, Banteer	Staffing	65,200
Banteer Community Childcare Services Ltd / Banteer Community Childcare Services Ltd	Clonmeen Road, Banteer, Co. Cork	Capital	1,300,000
Bantry Community Playgroup / Bantry Community Playgroup	Community Resource Centre, Glengarriff Road, Bantry, Co Cork	Staffing	39,887
Bantry Community Playgroup / Bantry Community Playgroup	Community Resource Centre, Glengarriff Road, Bantry	Staffing	127,500
Bantry Community Playgroup / Bantry Community Playgroup	Community Resource Centre, Glengarriff Road, Bantry	Staffing	129,000
Bantry Integrated Dev Group / Bantry Integrated Dev Group	Unit 13, IDA Centre, Ropewalk, Bantry, Co Cork	Other	48,953

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Beginners Corner / Beginners Corner	Lower Road (Demense), Newmarket	Capital	50,000
Blackwater Community Childcare Ltd / Blackwater Community Childcare Ltd	Resource Centre, McCurtin Street, Fermoy	Capital	242,592
Boherbue Educare Centre Ltd / Boherbue Educare Centre Ltd	The Village, Boherbue, Co. Cork	Staffing	47,437
Boherbue Educare Centre Ltd / Boherbue Educare Centre Ltd	The Village, Boherbue, Co. Cork	Staffing	48,000
Boherbue Educare Centre Ltd / Boherbue Educare Centre Ltd	C/o Doon, Kiskeam, Co. Cork	Staffing	90,000
Boherbue Educare Centre Ltd / Boherbue Educare Centre Ltd	C/o Doon, Kiskeam, Co. Cork	Capital	1,282,883
Caheragh Community Playgroup Ltd / Caheragh Community Playgroup Ltd	Bawnishal, Caheragh, Drimoleague	Staffing	12,000
Carrigtwohill Family Resource Centre / Carrigtwohill Family Resource Centre	Main Street, Carrigtwohill	Staffing	47,700
Carrigtwohill Family Resource Centre / Carrigtwohill Family Resource Centre	Main Street, Carrigtwohill	Staffing	115,744
Charleville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. / Charleville & District Community Enterprise	Broad Street, Charleville, Co Cork	Staffing	10,263
Charleville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. / Charleville & District Community Enterprise	Broad Street, Charleville, Co Cork	Staffing	70,000
Charleville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. / Charleville & District Community Enterprise	Broad Street, Charleville, Co Cork	Staffing	105,000
Charleville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. / Charleville & District Community Enterprise	Broad Street, Charleville, Co Cork	Staffing	114,276
Charleville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. / Charleville & District Community Enterprise	Broad Street, Charleville, Co Cork	Capital	123,231
Charleville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. / Charleville & District Community Enterprise	Broad Street, Charleville, Co Cork	Capital	190,370
Charleville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. / Charleville & District Community Enterprise	Broad Street, Charleville, Co Cork	Staffing	190,461
Charleville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. / Charleville & District Community Enterprise	Broad Street, Charleville, Co Cork	Staffing	281,800
Charleville & District Community Enterprise Ltd. / Charleville & District Community Enterprise	Broad Street, Charleville, Co Cork	Capital	304,737
Claire Devaney Childcare Centre Ltd / Bright Sparks Childcare Centre	5 Mulberry Crest, Mitchelstown, Co Cork	Capital	50,790
Clogagh Pre-school / Clogagh Pre-school	Clogagh, Timoleague, Bandon	Capital	44,799
Clonakilty Crèche and Playschool / Clonkilty Crèche and Playschool	6 The Oaks, Bridgemount, Carrigaline, Co Cork	Capital	8,253
Clonakilty Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten / Clonakilty Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten	Ladies Cross, Clonakilty, Co Cork	Staffing	8,000
Clonakilty Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten / Clonakilty Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten	Ladies Cross, Clonakilty, Co. Cork	Staffing	19,200
Clonakilty Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten / Clonakilty Steiner Waldorf Kindergarten	Ladies Cross, Clonakilty, Co. Cork	Staffing	24,000

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Cobh Youth Services Ltd / Cobh Youth Services Ltd	16 Midleton Street, Cobh, Co. Cork	Staffing	12,300
Comhaltas Cosanta Gaeltachta Chuil Aodha Teo. / Ionad Oige Chuil Aodha	Cuil Aodha, Macroom, Cork	Capital	600,000
Conna Community Childcare Committee / Conna Community Childcare Committee	Conna Community Centre, Conna	Capital	255,000
Conna Community Childcare Committee / Conna Community Childcare Committee	Conna Community Centre, Conna	Capital	750,000
Dromina Community Council Ltd / Dromina Community Playgroup	Dromina, Charleville	Staffing	25,000
Dromina Community Council Ltd / Dromina Community Playgroup	Dromina, Charleville	Capital	158,800
Early Starters Playgroup / Early Starters Playgroup	Castletownroche National School, Castletownroche	Capital	31,500
First Steps Child Education Ltd / First Steps Child Education Ltd	49 Silver Hill, Heron’s Wood, Carrigaline	Capital	50,790
Gobnait Burke Playgroup / Gobnait Burke Playgroup	48 Willobank, Church Road, Blackrock, Cork	Capital	50,790
Innishmore Family Centre Limited / Inishmore Developement Group	Innishmore Family Centre, Innishmore, Ballincollig, Co. Cork	Staffing	34,367
Innishmore Family Centre Limited / Inishmore Developement Group	Innishmore Family Centre, Innishmore, Ballincollig	Staffing	34,367
Innishmore Family Centre Limited / Inishmore Developement Group	Innishmore Family Centre, Innishmore, Ballincollig	Staffing	138,400
Innishmore Family Centre Limited / Inishmore Developement Group	Innishmore Family Centre, Innishmore, Ballincollig, Co. Cork	Staffing	154,654
IRD Duhallow Limited / IRD Duhallow Ltd	James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co Cork	Staffing	34,500
IRD Duhallow Limited / Newmarket Afterschool	James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co Cork	Other	47,847
IRD Duhallow Limited / Youth & Education Working Group (IRD Dulhallow)	James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co Cork	Capital	134,441
Kinsale Community Playschool / Kinsale Community Playschool	4 O’Brien’s Terrace, Kinsale, Kinsale, Co. Cork	Capital	33,960
Kinsale Community Playschool / Kinsale Community Playschool	C/o. 4 Haven Hill, Summercove, Kinsale, Co. Cork	Staffing	96,000
La Crèche / La Crèche	Colaiste an Chraoibhin, Duntaheen Road, Fermoy	Staffing	40,000
La Crèche / La Crèche	Colaiste an Chraoibhin, Duntaheen Road, Fermoy, Co. Cork	Capital	41,307
La Crèche / La Crèche	Colaiste an Chraoibhin, Duntaheen Road, Fermoy, Co. Cork	Staffing	109,000
Ladybird Crèche / Ladybird Crèche	Cloughmacsimon, Bandon, Co Cork	Capital	27,713
Le Cheile — Family Resource Centre (Mallow) Ltd / Le Cheile Family Resource Centre (Mallow) Ltd	33 Fair Street, Mallow, Co Cork	Capital	16,000
Le Cheile — Family Resource Centre (Mallow) Ltd / Le Cheile Family Resource Centre (Mallow) Ltd	33 Fair Street, Mallow, Co Cork	Staffing	153,900
Le Cheile — Family Resource Centre (Mallow) Ltd / Le Cheile Family Resource Centre (Mallow) Ltd	33 Fair Street, Mallow, Co Cork	Staffing	189,842

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Le Cheile — Family Resource Centre (Mallow) Ltd / Le Cheile Family Resource Centre (Mallow) Ltd	33 Fair Street, Mallow, Co Cork	Capital	1,200,000
Leslie Moore / Leslie Moore	13 Rosehill, Carrigaline, Co Cork	Capital	50,790
Little Cherubs Montessori Playschool / Little Cherubs Montessori Playschool	C/o 77 Brookdale, Mill Road, Midleton, Co Cork	Capital	13,000
Meadowlands Montessori / Meadowlands Montessori	31 Meadowlands, Cloughmacsimon, Bandon, Co. Cork	Capital	32,333
MFG Teo — Meitheal Mhuscrai / MFG Teo — Meitheal Mhuscrai	Reidh na nDoiri, Maigh Chromtha, Co Chorcai	Other	8,634
Midleton Community Forum / Midleton Community Forum	Community Building, Oakwood Lodge Estate, Youghal Road, Midleton	Capital	28,678
Midleton Community Forum / Midleton Community Forum	Community Building, Oakwood Lodge Estate, Youghal Road, Midleton	Capital	36,989
Midleton Community Forum / Midleton Community Forum	Community Building, Oakwood Lodge Estate, Youghal Road, Midleton	Staffing	61,678
Midleton Community Forum / Midleton Community Forum	Community Building, Oakwood Lodge, Youghal Road, Midleton	Staffing	66,100
Midleton Community Forum / Midleton Community Forum	Community Building, Oakwood Lodge Estate, Youghal Road, Midleton	Capital	76,130
Midleton Community Forum / Midleton Community Forum	Community Building, Oakwood Lodge Estate, Youghal Road, Midleton	Staffing	133,322
Millstreet Community Council / Millstreet Community Council	The Muilleann Og Project, Millstreet Amenity Centre, Millstreet, Co. Cork	Capital	9,088
Millstreet Community Council / Millstreet Community Council	The Muilleann Og Project, Millstreet Amenity Centre, Millstreet, Co. Cork	Capital	16,230
Millstreet Community Council / Millstreet Community Council	The Bridge, Millstreet, Co. Cork	Staffing	54,724
Millstreet Community Council / Millstreet Community Council	The Muilleann Og Project, Millstreet Amenity Centre, Millstreet, Co Cork	Staffing	114,276
Millstreet Community Council / Millstreet Community Council	The Bridge, Millstreet, Co. Cork	Capital	186,651
Mitchelstown Community Playgroup / Mitchelstown Community Playgroup	Presentation Convent Grounds, Mitchelstown	Capital	30,874
Mulberry Montessori Pre-school / Mulberry Montessori Pre-school	Mulberry, Mitchelstown	Capital	50,790
Naionra Mhuscrai / Naionra Mhuscrai	C/o Gaelscoil Mhuscrai, Blarney United Soccer Club, Riverview Estate, Tonor, Blarney	Capital	15,300
Oakfield Close Community Playgroup / Oakfield Close Community Playgroup	Oakfield Close, Summerhill, Mallow	Capital	15,818
Oakfield Close Community Playgroup / Oakfield Close Community Playgroup	Oakfield Close, Summerhill, Mallow, Co Cork	Staffing	32,000
Oakfield Close Community Playgroup / Oakfield Close Community Playgroup	Oakfield Close, Summerhill, Mallow	Capital	38,274
Oakfield Close Community Playgroup / Oakfield Close Community Playgroup	Oakfield Close, Summerhill, Mallow	Staffing	51,200

Applicant Name / Facility Name	Address	Grant Type	Amount Approved
			€
Oakfield Close Community Playgroup / Oakfield Close Community Playgroup	Oakfield Close, Summerhill, Mallow	Staffing	64,000
Oaklands / Oaklands	Oakview, Derry, Berrings, Co. Cork	Capital	50,790
Patricia Treacy (Tir Na nOg Montessori School) / Tir Na nOg Montessori School	Dromdiah, Killeagh, Co. Cork	Capital	3,868
Patricia Treacy (Tir Na nOg Montessori School) / Tir Na nOg Montessori School	Dromdiah, Killeagh, Co. Cork	Capital	46,922
Rainbow Montessori / Rainbow Montessori	Main Street, Ballinacurra, Midleton	Capital	4,945
Ringlee House Day Nursery / Ringlee House Day Nursery	Ringlee House, Rushbrooke, Cobh	Capital	50,790
Rockchapel Community Playgroup / Rockchapel Community Playgroup	Rockchapel, Mallow, Co. Cork	Staffing	21,078
Rockchapel Community Playgroup / Rockchapel Community Playgroup	Rockchapel, Mallow, Co. Cork	Capital	23,998
Rockchapel Community Playgroup / Rockchapel Community Playgroup	Rockchapel, Mallow, Co. Cork	Staffing	32,505
Sherkin Island Development Society Ltd / Sherkin Island Development Society Ltd.	Sherkin Island, Skibbereen, Co. Cork	Other	3,809
Starting Point Montessori School / Starting Point Montessori School	1 Murphy Terrace, Carrigaline	Capital	30,499
Sunny Days Montessori School / Sunny Days Montessori School	7 Ashbourne Court, Carrigaline, Co Cork	Capital	40,551
The United Church of Ireland Parishes of Cobh and Glanmire / The United Church of Ireland Parishes of Cobh and Glanmire	Merville, Cobh, Co Cork	Capital	8,615
Tir na nOg Day Care & Montessori / Tir na nOg Day Care & Montessori	Riversdale, Rathcormac	Capital	50,790
Youthreach Bizzie Babies Nursery & Day Care Centre / Youthreach Bizzie Babies Nursery & Day Care Centre	Units 4 & 5, Great Island Enterprise Park, Innishmore, Ballincollig	Capital	37,799
Youthreach Mallow Childcare Committee / Youthreach Mallow Childcare Committee	County Cork VEC Youthreach, Ballyellis, Mallow	Capital	1,000,000
Yvonne Feehan / Wishing Well Montessori	Ballinrea, Carrigaline, Co. Cork	Capital	50,790
Cork County Total			14,861,387
Cork City and County Total			42,750,056

North-South Health Services.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

265 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the work of the North-South unit in her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22599/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The Research, EU and International Unit in my Department has responsibility, inter alia, for managing and coordinating North/South cooperation in the health sector. This includes direct liaison with other government departments and with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety in Northern Ireland to ensure that the Department's responsibilities in relation to North/South cooperation are met. It also includes liaison with other bodies with a North/South remit such as the North South Ministerial Council, Special EU Programmes Body, Cooperation And Working Together (CAWT) etc. There are regular ongoing contacts between officials from the Unit and counterparts in Northern Ireland to ensure cooperation in the designated areas continues and to explore potential areas for further collaborative work.

Cancer Treatment Services.

Fergus O'Dowd

Question:

266 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the future availability of cancer treatment services at Our Lady Of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, in particular the future of the breast care unit, the oncology unit and the palliative care unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22602/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

269 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the chaos in behaviour which exists in a care home for young people (details supplied) in County Westmeath; if her further attention has been drawn to the fact that the Health Service Executive is ignoring all correspondence, telephone calls, complaints and so on regarding this establishment; and her proposals to deal with this situation. [22621/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Brendan Smith)

My Office have sought an urgent report in relation to this matter from the Health Service Executive (HSE). In addition, the Deputy's question has been forwarded to the HSE and I have requested that the HSE reply to the Deputy directly.

Brian O'Shea

Question:

270 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children her proposals to enhance services to meet the demands of an increasing number of people with diabetes (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22628/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher)

An Expert Advisory Group on Diabetes was recently established by the HSE and is currently drawing up standards of care for diabetes. This process will take account of the Department of Health and Children's document ‘ Diabetes: Prevention and Model for Patient Care’. The group has identified as one of its priorities the development of an Integrated Care Model for the treatment of diabetes. This model will focus on the joint participation of hospital consultants and general practitioners in the planned delivery of care for patients. The Expert Advisory Group has also identified the other areas of diabetes care that need priority attention such as retinopathy screening, paediatric diabetes, patient education and empowerment, and podiatry. It should be noted that the diabetic retinopathy screening to prevent eye diseases in diabetes sufferers is currently being rolled out in the Western region and in North Dublin.

In addition, my Department and the HSE are currently finalising a series of measures to manage the health impacts of chronic disease generally in the population. These measures include:—

The development of a comprehensive, integrated chronic disease policy framework which will view chronic disease as a continuum with "upstream" action on the avoidable cause of disease, disability and premature death (including in particular inter-sectoral action to address the wider determinants of health) as well as "downstream" action to improve the health and quality of life of those already suffering from the condition;

Comprehensive patient registration systems;

The development of shared care models for each condition under a disease management programme;

The development and use of evidence-based clinical guidelines for each condition;

A Self-Care Management Programme; and

Quality assurance and evaluation Protocols.

Nursing Homes Repayment Scheme.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

271 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for delays in making repayments under the scheme for repayments to those illegally charged for their stay in nursing homes; the reason in particular, that of the 70,000 persons estimated to be owed a refund and the 30,000 who have made applications, only 6,000 persons have received repayments; if she has satisfied herself with the operation of the scheme by the private sector consortium appointed for the purpose; if there are performance criteria included in the contract with that consortium by reference to which their fees can be reduced or penalty payments imposed; if not, the reason for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22661/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has responsibility for administering the health repayment scheme in conjunction with the appointed scheme administrator KPMG/McCann Fitzgerald. This contract between the HSE and the scheme administrator is for a two year period and expires in July 2008. The HSE has informed my Department that performance indicators and penalty provisions apply to the scheme administrator in respect of this contract and penalty provisions will be applied by the HSE as required.

The scheme is progressing as speedily as possible and every effort is being made to complete repayments. The HSE has indicated that the delays in making repayments under the scheme have been due to legal and technical issues. Firstly, over 13,400 estates who lodged claims to date had not extracted a grant of representation in respect of the estate of the deceased patient. In these instances the person entitled to extract the grant of representation has to be identified before an application can be processed and to date over 6,600 certificates of entitlement permitting individuals to apply for a repayment have issued. Secondly, there has been a high incidence of claimants providing insufficient information and these claims have taken longer to process as the scheme administrator must be provided with certain information in order to ensure that the correct person and correct amount is repaid. Thirdly, it has been necessary for the scheme administrator to visit over 330 HSE facilities to scan records which form the basis for the calculation of repayments. The format in which this information is held varies widely between institutions and usually includes a mixture of paper files, handwritten files and computer files.

The HSE is monitoring the operation of the repayment scheme and has agreed a range of initiatives with the scheme administrator to speed up the repayment process. The closing date for receipt of applications is 31st December 2007 and I have been informed by the HSE that final repayments should be made by mid 2008.

Health Services.

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.

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The Orthodontic Review Group, established by the HSE in 2006, finalised its report this year.

One of the recommendations contained in the report relates to the guidelines issued in 1985. The Review Group made a unanimous recommendation to the HSE to replace these guidelines with new assessment criteria based on Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN). The national implementation of the proposed guidelines will ensure equity of access to treatment for all patients deemed eligible.

The Review Group's report has been approved by the HSE's Management Team.

In regard to the Deputy's question in relation to waiting times to improve orthodontic services, the position is that the new Programme for Government contains a commitment that orthodontic cases can be referred to the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) by creating an orthodontic fund to treat children who have been waiting the longest for treatment. Officials from my Department will examine the steps involved in advancing this issue while also having discussions with the National Treatment Purchase Fund.

Hospital Services.

Joe Carey

Question:

283 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that post-mortem facilities in County Clare will continue regardless of the embargo on the employment of locums; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22828/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Jan O'Sullivan

Question:

284 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the length of time women in the mid-west have to wait to have a mammogram at the Regional Hospital in Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22846/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary 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 questions raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have these matters investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Child Care Services.

John Perry

Question:

285 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that funding is allocated to an organisation (details supplied) under NCIP capital funding as otherwise they will be unable to offer the service in the local region due to financial shortfall; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22873/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Brendan Smith)

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.

With regard to the application for capital grant assistance under the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 referred to in the question, I understand that it is currently being assessed by Pobal, the agency engaged to administer the grants. Following the assessment of the application, a recommendation will be made by the Programme Appraisal Committee (PAC), prior to a decision being made by the Secretary General of the Department of Health and Children.

As the Deputy will be aware the NCIP came into effect from 1 January 2006, with an allocation of €357 million for capital projects during the 5 year period of 2006-2010. This funding is allocated for each year subject to the rules governing capital expenditure and the multi-annual investment framework, which are also conditions of the sanction given by the Department of Finance each year for capital expenditure including the NCIP. Due to the success of the scheme to date, the existing capital commitments under the programme has reached the approved ceiling of €132 million for this year and it is not possible for this Office to enter into further capital commitments under the NCIP before January 2008 when the ceiling will adjust. However, should the application in question be assessed by Pobal and recommended by the PAC before the end of this year, it will be submitted for consideration and approval by the Secretary General of the Department of Health and Children at the earliest opportunity in January 2008.

Medical Cards.

Eamon Scanlon

Question:

286 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans in relation to old age pensioners to ensure that they can avail of dental treatment on the medical card. [22874/07]

Minister for Health and Children (Deputy Mary Harney)

The Dental Treatment Service Scheme (DTSS) provides for a range of dental services for adult medical card holders from participating dentists holding contracts with the Health Service Executive (HSE).

The DTSS Review Group was established in May 2006 to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services provided under the DTSS. Represented on the Review Group are the HSE, the Health Service Employers Agency, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Department of Finance and the Irish Dental Association (IDA). The Group is chaired by Mr Finbar Flood.

Since the Group was established, a legal issue has arisen with regard to the Competition Act 2002 as it relates to the negotiation of professional fees. The issues involved are complex and my officials are working with the Attorney General's office to clarify the way forward.

The existing contractual arrangements with private dental practitioners under the DTSS for provision of dental services to eligible patients remain in place although I am aware that some dentists have indicated that they wish to resign from this scheme. It should be noted that dentists withdrawing from the scheme are obliged to work a three months notice period.

If an eligible patient cannot access the services of a dentist because the dentist has resigned from the DTSS, that patient may approach any dentist within the Scheme for treatment.

Question No. 287 answered with QuestionNo. 229.

Services for People with Disabilities.

The assessment of need process is a matter for the HSE and I have referred this matter to the HSE who will be in a position to provide information in terms of the numbers involved, the appointment of assessment and liaison officers.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

292 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has proposals to change the eligibility criteria for qualification for the motorised transport grant as many people with severe disabilities are currently being denied this assistance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22892/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Deputy Jimmy Devins)

296 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Transport and the Marine the plans he or his Department have to extend the rural transport initiative to the villages (details supplied) surrounding the town of Newbridge; the frequency of such transport; the time-frame involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22653/07]

Minister for Transport and the Marine (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

Under the Rural Transport Programme, initiatives to expand and develop rural transport services are matters for local communities, in consultation with Pobal. Community groups in Newbridge seeking to establish a scheme should make contact with Pobal at Holbrook House, Holles Street, Dublin 2.

State Airports.

Richard Bruton

Question:

297 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport and the Marine if final decisions have been reached on the division of assets and liabilities between the various airport authorities; when the separation will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22269/07]

Minister for Transport and the Marine (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

The State Airports Act, 2004 provides the framework for the establishment of Shannon and Cork as independent airports. Under the Act, both the Minister for Finance and I will have to be satisfied as to the state of operational and financial readiness of the three airports before any vesting of assets can take place.

The actual timing of airport restructuring will continue to depend on the creation of the appropriate conditions that will ensure the financial sustainability of each State Airport.

Park and Ride Facilities.

Shane McEntee

Question:

298 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Transport and the Marine his views on the introduction of parking charges by Iarnród Éireann at Gormanston Railway Station; if it is intended to introduce charges elsewhere on the Dublin to Drogheda line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22275/07]

Minister for Transport and the Marine (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

The provision and management of car parking facilities at railway stations, including the imposition of charges, is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann.

However, I understand from Iarnród Éireann that as part of its upgrade of the railway system it has embarked on a major programme of upgrades to its park & ride facilities throughout the country. As new and upgraded car parks, such as Gormanston, are opened Iarnród Éireann has decided to introduce a pay and display facility, with nominal charges of €2 per day, or €5 per week to cover operational and security costs, to discourage non-rail users from taking spaces and to reserve spaces for those who have to use a car to access the station.

The modest charges are significantly lower than that charged by local authorities for on-street parking, for parking at local authority facilities adjacent to rail stations, or the fee for Luas commuters at €4 per day.

The charges are in line with the guiding principles for the implementation of rail-based park and ride sites developed by the Dublin Transportation Office. These provide, inter alia, that rail users only should use park and ride spaces, and may have to pay to use them and those who benefit from park and ride should contribute to the cost of it.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Michael Ring

Question:

299 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Transport and the Marine the meetings that have taken place between his Department and any associated Departments in relation to the provision of patient transport in line with responsibilities contained in the sectoral plan for accessible transport under the Disability Act, 2005. [21166/07]

Minister for Transport and the Marine (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

In my Department's Sectoral Plan under the Disability Act 2005, there is an emphasis on inclusiveness and, it does not, therefore, make specific provisions for any particular groups of people, such as hospital patients.

However, as part of the expansion of the Rural Transport Programme (RTP) to provide increased services and expand coverage, my Department initiated a meeting on 24th May last with the Health Service Executive (HSE), Pobal and the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs to examine the scope for closer cooperation between the various interests involved in community transport.

At that meeting, it was agreed that the HSE and Pobal would explore the potential for one or more pilot projects involving individual RTP groups and the HSE at local level. The HSE has now proposed a follow-up meeting on the matter for mid-November and I await the outcome of that meeting.

Air Accident Investigations.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

300 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Transport and the Marine his views on the issues raised in correspondence (details supplied). [22407/07]

Minister for Transport and the Marine (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

I am advised that the correspondence referred to does not contain material that would warrant any further review of the air accident to EI-ACF, which occurred in 1953, and which was reviewed in 2002 by Mr. Patrick Keane S.C. on behalf of this Department.

Public Transport.

It is a matter for the Road Safety Authority to examine the driver licensing and testing system and to submit proposals to my Department as to what further reforms might be introduced.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

307 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport and the Marine if all buses being used as part of the rural transport initiatives are accessible to people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22837/07]

Minister for Transport and the Marine (Deputy Noel Dempsey)

Under the framework for the Rural Transport Programme, the types of vehicles used in rural transport services are a matter for the individual community rural transport groups involved, in consultation with Pobal.

In accordance with Transport Access for All, my Department's Sectoral Plan under the Disability Act 2005, accessibility for people with mobility, sensory and cognitive impairments is a core consideration for services under the Rural Transport Programme and groups are required to take account of this in developing their schemes.

Passport Applications.

Damien English

Question:

308 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Meath is not permitted to obtain an Irish passport; and if this decision will be re-examined. [22691/07]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The Passport Office can only issue a passport to an Irish Citizen.

In this case, an application for an Irish passport was submitted on behalf of a child by his parents to the Passport Office in May, 2007. The applicant was born in Ireland in 2006. Under the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 2004, persons born in the State after 1 January 2005, where neither parent is an Irish or British citizen or otherwise entitled to reside without restriction in the State or in Northern Ireland, may claim citizenship by birth in the State (and thereby establish eligibility for a passport) only where a parent has been lawfully resident in the State for 3 years of the 4 years preceding their birth. In all such cases, it is the practice of the Passport Office to seek evidence, in the form of official documentation, of lawful residence in the State by one or both parents.

The evidence provided in support of the application in question did not satisfy the residency requirement and as such the passport application could not be approved. My Department wrote to the applicant's parents and advised them of this decision on 5 June, 2007. The application has been re-examined in detail by the Passport Office. There is no change in the position conveyed in the letter of 5 June, 2007.

Emigrant Support Services.

Ciaran Lynch

Question:

309 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the fact that proposed immigration reform legislation in the US has stalled; the action he will take to address the concerns of groups representing the estimated 50,000 undocumented Irish citizens in the US; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22376/07]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The failure of efforts by the United States Congress to pass comprehensive immigration reform legislation earlier this year was a major disappointment and setback for the thousands of undocumented Irish people in the United States and for their families in Ireland. Given the present very difficult and divided environment in Congress on immigration, it is now widely considered that such comprehensive legislation is unlikely to be back before Congress in a meaningful way in advance of the next US Presidential and Congressional Elections.

In the aftermath of this disappointment, I made clear my determination to actively review the situation and to explore possible alternative options, including bilateral arrangements. In the months since the collapse of the comprehensive reform bill, my Department and the Embassy in Washington have been engaged in a wide range of consultations with Congressional, Administration and Irish community figures to assess how best to proceed.

My visit to the United States last week provided me with the opportunity to discuss the situation in detail with senior members of the Administration and with some of the key central players in Congress. While they all emphasised the present extremely difficult environment for making progress on immigration reform in Congress, I was pleased that they were very willing to work with us in exploring further possible ways for resolving the position of our undocumented citizens. This work will now be pursued by the Ambassador and his staff in Washington and will be reviewed by me on an on-going basis.

I also reviewed the situation with the Irish lobby for immigration reform, and subsequently briefed them on my discussions in Washington, including the considerable challenges seen by our friends in Congress in achieving a breakthrough at this time. Finally, I had a detailed discussion on the situation with the Secretary for Homeland Security, Mr Chertoff, and had a meeting with members of our undocumented community in New York.

Diplomatic Representation.

Finian McGrath

Question:

310 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will actively support the National Lawyers Guild USA in their call for the UN to investigate the case of the Miami 5. [22405/07]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The case to which the Deputy refers relates to five Cuban citizens who were convicted in the US in 2001 on charges ranging from espionage to first degree murder. A panel of three judges from the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals in Atlanta overturned the 2001 convictions on 9th August 2005 and ordered a retrial based on new evidence. The Miami District Attorney duly filed an appeal against this decision and, following an appellate hearing on 14 February 2006, a 10-2 decision to uphold the 2001 convictions was issued on 9 August 2006.

I understand that a number of non-governmental organizations, including the organization named by the Deputy, continue to pursue issues relating to the convictions in question. However, as I have made clear in my replies to the Deputy's previous Parliamentary Questions on this issue, I do not think it appropriate for Ireland to become involved in these cases.

Foreign Conflicts.

Charlie O'Connor

Question:

311 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on contacts he has had in respect of the situation in Cyprus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22469/07]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Deputy Dermot Ahern)

The United Nations has the lead role in the search for a comprehensive settlement of the Cyprus problem. The Government fully supports the leadership of the UN Secretary General in this important work, and we welcome the ongoing efforts of the Secretary General's Special Representative to Cyprus, Mr. Michael Moeller, to bring the two sides together to seek progress toward a political settlement.

On 8 July 2006, the UN Under Secretary General for Political Affairs, Dr. Ibrahim Gambari, brokered an agreement between the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr. Tassos Papadopoulos, and Mr. Mehmet Ali Talat, representing the Turkish Cypriot community, on a set of principles, recognising that the status quo was unacceptable and that a comprehensive settlement was both desirable and possible. They agreed to begin immediately a two-track process involving discussions by committees of issues affecting the day-to-day life of the people and, concurrently, of substantive issues leading to a comprehensive settlement. However, these committees were not subsequently established, due to disagreements on their respective mandates and terms of reference. Following a hiatus, consultations at official level on these issues resumed at the end of January 2007, though so far without any breakthrough.

On 5 September, the Special Representative facilitated a meeting between President Papadopoulos and Mr. Talat, the first such encounter between the two leaders since last year. While regrettably no substantive progress was made on this occasion, we welcome the reopening of political dialogue which this meeting represents. We are also encouraged that the two sides have agreed to continue their contact through the UN, and remain hopeful that this dialogue may yet help to unblock the stalemate in the process.

Ireland will continue, through our Embassy in Nicosia and in contacts with the Embassies of Cyprus and Turkey in Dublin, to encourage both sides to renew their commitment to the negotiating process and the achievement of the objective of a bi-zonal, bi-communal federal State through an honourable, balanced and durable settlement protecting and guaranteeing the basic interests and aspirations of all. I have made our position clear to successive Cypriot colleagues, and also to Turkish Ministers for Foreign Affairs, most recently Mr. Ali Babacan, whom I met in New York on 1 October.

North-South Co-operation.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

312 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will report on the work of the North-South unit in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22596/07]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Micheál Martin)

My Department and its agencies are aware of the critical importance that the Government attaches to progressing mutually beneficial North/South projects. The North/South Policy Unit of my Department is charged with co-ordinating the Department's work on North/South policy issues. The North/South Policy Unit is also a liaison unit for the Department's interactions with InterTradeIreland, the all-island trade and business development body established under the Good Friday Agreement. InterTradeIreland's statutory remit is to exchange information and co-ordinate work on supporting trade, business development and related matters in an all-island context. My Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland, which is a co-sponsor of InterTradeIreland, liaise regularly on policy issues, new initiatives and other matters of mutual interest.

InterTradeIreland has initiated a broad range of projects to address areas such as technology transfer, collaborative research and development, sales and marketing, and business capability improvement. In the past three years InterTradeIreland has created and supported more than 20 all-island networks, all built on the principle of generating value through collaboration, and all delivering value. InterTradeIreland has also been at the forefront of developing innovative resources in response to the opportunities of the modern knowledge economy, such as the ExpertiseIreland research portal, which involves a partnership with the nine universities on the island of Ireland and the higher education sector.

The Comprehensive Study on the All-Island Economy, which was published last year, identifies collaborative actions where they are cost effective and deliver joint benefits to address the competitive challenges facing both parts of the island and the economic problems that persist as a result of the border. A range of initiatives are underway to implement its proposals in areas such as Labour Market Skills, Research and Innovation, Trade and Investment Promotion.

The National Development Plan 2007-2013 sets out in detail a range of current and planned initiatives for North/South co-operation. For the first time, the Plan also contains proposals for significant Irish Government investment in North/South projects and initiatives for mutual benefit. These projects and initiatives will benefit the entire island of Ireland.

Following the restoration of the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive, the fifth plenary meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council was held in Armagh on 17 July, 2007. This was a very significant occasion given that it was the first plenary meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council since 2002. We now have the opportunity to progress a range of significant issues that will lead to a more dynamic and prosperous economy across the island of Ireland.

On 12 September, I joined Northern Ireland Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Nigel Dodds, in Derry to attend the opening of the North-West Business Complex, which forms part of the North-West Business and Technology Zone. This joint initiative between IDA Ireland and Invest Northern Ireland is receiving substantial funding from INTERREG IIIA to develop a world-class environment for technology-oriented enterprises in Letterkenny and Derry. I look forward to working with Minister Dodds under the auspices of the restored institutions established under the Good Friday Agreement to jointly take forward pragmatic initiatives that will advance co-operation for mutual benefit. Arrangements are currently being made to hold our first North/South Ministerial Council meeting on the Trade and Business Development Sector.

Industrial Development.

Dara Calleary

Question:

313 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of contacts his Department has had with IDA Ireland during 2007 in relation to the development of a technological park in Ballina, County Mayo; and if he will meet IDA officials to discuss the ongoing delay in securing proper title to the site. [22650/07]

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Deputy Micheál Martin)

The management of IDA Ireland's industrial property portfolio is a day-to-day operational matter for the Agency and not one in which I have a function. Under the Industrial Development Acts establishing the Agency the Minister of the day may give policy directions to the Agency but is specifically precluded from giving directions to the Agency regarding specific undertakings or from giving preference to one area of the Country over any other.

I understand, however, that progress regarding the acquisition of the 27 acre site on the Sligo Road was delayed due to lengthy legal proceedings over which the Agency had no control. These proceedings are near finalisation and the Agency is in continuing discussion with the Council with a view to an early resolution of the matter.

Sports Funding.

Finian McGrath

Question:

314 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding grants to sports clubs. [22578/07]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Deputy Séamus Brennan)

The sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country.

The 2007 Sports Capital Programme was advertised in the national press in October 2006. The closing date for receipt of completed applications was 24th November 2006. Over 1,530 applications were received for the Programme and provisional allocations totalling €85 million were made to 935 projects on 5th April last.

The date of the next round of the Programme has not yet been decided. As in previous years, advertisements announcing the next round of the Programme will be placed in the national press and application forms will be available at that stage.

North-South Co-operation.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

315 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the work of the North-South unit in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22592/07]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Deputy Séamus Brennan)

The North-South Unit in my Department actively pursues opportunities to facilitate, strengthen and enhance North-South co-operation across the three sectors under my remit as Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism. The Unit also monitors progress on specific initiatives or priority actions in relation to North-South co-operation in the sectors in question. In considering any such initiatives, the over-riding principle has been that they should offer clear and tangible benefits, North and South. The Unit attends the various North/South co-ordinators meetings as convened by the Department of Foreign Affairs and also liaises closely with the North South Ministerial Council on relevant areas of interest.

As the Deputy will be aware, tourism was identified in the Good Friday Agreement as an area of co-operation and Tourism Ireland was established in 2000 with responsibility for the international marketing of the island of Ireland. It is, in my opinion, an excellent example of the tangible benefits to be achieved from North-South co-operation. The North-South Unit meets regularly with Tourism Ireland to discuss relevant policy issues and also various corporate governance issues.

North South co-operation on tourism also exists on a less formal basis in areas such as education and training; product marketing and publicity; tourism statistics and research and accommodation standards. A variety of initiatives are being developed and pursued by the tourism agencies across these areas to deepen the level of co-operation that already exists. In recent months, my Department has also been working with the tourism agencies, the Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland and the Special EU Programmes Body to advance the selection of tourism projects which may benefit from funding under the next round of the EU Interreg Programme in the period up to 2013.

Furthermore, on the 8th November, I will be meeting the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Mr. Nigel Dodds, at the first North South Ministerial Council Tourism Sectoral meeting since the restoration of the institutions in Northern Ireland.

In relation to sport, the two Sports Councils on the island enjoy a strong working relationship and currently engage in a number of joint initiatives such as the Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children's Sport and the biennial All Island Sports Development Conference. I plan to attend the 5th such conference in Belfast this Thursday, 11th October. Many of the National Governing Bodies of Sport also operate on an all-island basis. The high level All Island Planning Group, which includes the Chairperson and Chief Executive of each Sports Council, meets on a regular basis to ensure consistency in policy and practice in sports development. There is co-operation on such issues as research, development of high performance sport and anti-doping. The Group ensures that there is no duplication of effort in planning and support for governing bodies of sport and individual athletes.

On the arts front, the Arts Council and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland have developed a very close working relationship over many years. There has been an ongoing programme of work and co-operation which is formalised through a number of formal structures, including Joint Plenary meetings, North/South Committee Meetings and North/South Senior Executive Meetings. There is also ongoing contact, co-operation and information exchange between the executives of both Councils. Both Councils have identified areas of common strategic interest, and have instigated programmes in the advancement of these. The councils have successfully collaborated on a number of projects and there are numerous funding initiatives between the two Arts Councils in the literary, music and visual arts spheres.

For my part, I am very committed to pursuing the North-South agenda and will continue to make the case at political level for closer co-operation within my areas of responsibility.

Sports Funding.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

316 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will explain the weighting given to clubs located in disadvantaged areas when allocating sports grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22664/07]

Terence Flanagan

Question:

317 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the criteria used for the allocation of sports grants to football clubs (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22665/07]

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism (Deputy Séamus Brennan)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 316 and 317 together.

The sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country.

The 2007 Sports Capital Programme was advertised in the national press in October 2006. The closing date for receipt of completed applications was 24th November 2006. Over 1,530 applications were received for the programme and provisional allocations totalling €85 million were made to 935 projects on 5th April last.

When assessing applications, my Department uses eleven criteria to evaluate applications, some of which are more important than others and are weighted accordingly. The Department scores each application according to how well it meets these criteria. These criteria and weightings are reviewed in advance of each programme and can be subject to change. In answer to the Deputy's specific question, these criteria apply to all sports equally.

When assessing projects, the Department may also consult with other Government Departments, local authorities, the Irish Sports Council and National Governing Bodies of Sport, particularly in relation to regional and national projects, before a final decision is made.

In relation to the geographical location of an applicant, organisations that can prove they are located in any of the recognised disadvantaged areas of CLAR, RAPID or in a Local Drugs Task Force Area are awarded extra points under one of the eleven assessment criteria. In addition, applicants from disadvantaged areas only have to provide evidence of 20% minimum local funding as against the 30% requirement for all other applicants.

Further details in relation to the 2007 programme are contained in the Guidelines, Terms and Conditions which are available on my Department's website — www.dast.gov.ie. The date of the next round of the Programme has not yet been decided. As in previous years, advertisements announcing the next round of the Programme will be placed in the national press and application forms will be available at that stage.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Damien English

Question:

318 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount of rent supplement paid in County Meath for each of the years 1997 to 2007 with a breakdown for each community welfare office within County Meath in tabular readable form. [22701/07]

Damien English

Question:

319 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of people in receipt of rent supplement in County Meath for each of the years 1997 to 2007 with a breakdown of this figure for each community welfare office within County Meath in tabular readable form. [22702/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

I propose to answer Questions Nos. 318 and 319 together.

I attach for your information two tables showing:

expenditure in the HSE North East area, which includes county Meath, from 1998 to date and expenditure nationally from 1997 to date, and

recipients of rent supplement in county Meath from 2001 to date and recipients nationally from 1997 to date.

Expenditure on rent supplement by county or the number of recipients by Community Welfare Office in county Meath is unavailable. Information on rent supplement recipients by county is only available from 2001.

Expenditure on Rent Supplement from 1997 to 2007 in HSE North East and Nationally
Year	HSE North East	Nationally
	€000	€000
1997*		95,610
1998	5,080	111,740
1999	5,692	128,240
2000	6,772	150,590
2001	9,875	179,438
2002	14,322	252,340
2003	15,962	331,470
2004	14,442	353,760
2005	13,868	368,705
2006	15,272	388,339
2007**	11,121	262,255

* HSE North East expenditure unavailable.

** End August 2007.

Recipients of Rent Supplement from 1997 to 2007 in Meath and Nationally
Year	Meath	Nationally
	Recipients	Recipients
1997*	n/a	36,800
1998*	n/a	40,000
1999	n/a	41,873
2000	n/a	42,683
2001	496	45,028
2002	669	54,213
2003	690	59,976
2004	651	57,874
2005	633	60,176
2006	782	59,861
2007**	840	58,524

* Estimated average number of recipients

** 28/9/07

Free Travel Scheme.

John Deasy

Question:

320 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will extend the free travel scheme to include the Airlink bus services to Dublin Airport; his views on whether there is an anomaly for people entitled to free rail travel to Dublin then having to pay on a public service from Heuston and Connolly Rail Stations to the airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22339/07]

Róisín Shortall

Question:

327 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the progress that has been made with the Department of Transport and the Taxi Commission Office on the establishment of new subsidy or assistance on a pilot basis to assist wheelchair users with the cost of taxis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22626/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 320 and 327 together.

The free travel scheme is available to all people living in the State aged 66 years or over. All carers in receipt of carer's allowance and carers of people in receipt of constant attendance or prescribed relative's allowance, regardless of their age, receive a free travel pass. It is also available to people under age 66 who are in receipt of certain disability type welfare payments, such as disability allowance, invalidity pension and blind person's pension.

The scheme provides free travel on the main public and private transport services for those eligible under the scheme. These include road, rail and ferry services provided by companies such as Bus Átha Cliath, Bus Éireann and Iarnród Éireann, as well as Luas and services provided by over 80 private transport operators.

Airlink Services are not covered by the free travel scheme. However, there are several other buses serving Dublin Airport from the city centre on which the free travel pass can be used and so there is no question of pass holders having to pay to access the airport by public transport.

I am aware of the difficulties that some free travel pass holders have in accessing public transport and my officials have discussed this issue with the Commission for Taxi Regulation. Various alternatives to the existing system, including the use of vouchers, have been examined. A study, "A Review of the Free Schemes," published in 2000 under the Department's programme of expenditure reviews concluded that a voucher type system, which would be open to a wide range of transport providers including taxis and hackneys, would be extremely difficult to administer, open to abuse and unlikely to be sufficient to afford an acceptable amount of travel. This position remains unchanged.

I will continue to review the operation of the free travel scheme with a view to identifying the scope for further improvements as resources permit.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Richard Bruton

Question:

321 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will clarify the circumstances in which people on community employment can retain rent supplement; and if these rules differ for lone parents or families of different size and make-up. [22352/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

326 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will report on the work of the North-South unit in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22600/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

There are four main areas of North-South co-operation being undertaken by my Department as follows:

Firstly, the all-Ireland Free Travel Scheme for senior residents in all parts of the island was introduced on foot of a commitment in the previous programme for Government (2002-2007). It enables certain people in each jurisdiction to travel free of charge from point to point within the other jurisdiction. Seniors (over 66) resident in the Republic can travel free of charge on all bus and rail services in Northern Ireland. Likewise, seniors (over 65) in Northern Ireland can travel free of charge on bus, rail, air and ferry services participating in the Free Travel scheme in this State.

The scheme was launched on 2 April 2007. Funding is expected to rise to €1.9 million this year. While it is not possible to predict precisely the number of customers likely to participate in the scheme, approximately 220,000 cross-border journeys are undertaken each year by an estimated 40,000 passengers, and it is hoped that take up of the scheme will be high.

Secondly, in June 2002 the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) Plenary agreed that a dedicated cross-border website be established to counteract the complexity and difficulty people found in accessing relevant information on a range of issues from social security and taxation rights to housing and education. This work is being taken forward by the Cross Border Mobility Information Group, made up of officials from the two Administrations and the Joint Secretariat in Armagh. My Department is represented on the Group.

Funding of €173,000 for the project was approved in July 2006 under the Peace II programme, and the contract to develop this website has been awarded to the Centre for Cross Border Studies (CCBS).

The website will be structured around the four concepts of "Commute", "Work", "Live", and "Study" and will include information on public sector issues such as taxation, social security and job seeking, health and education as well as private sector issues such as banking, housing and telecommunications. It is anticipated that the website, which will be a tangible and practical example of the two Governments working together for the benefit of citizens, North and South, will be available to citizens by early 2008.

Thirdly, the strengthening of links with Northern Ireland and direct contact between the respective social welfare organizations is very important. For the past number of years my Department has hosted a number of Information Seminars in partnership with the Department of Social Development (DSD) and the Social Security Agency (SSA) in Northern Ireland. The objective of the Seminars is to provide frontline staff with the level of information needed to promote and increase benefit uptake within both jurisdictions by sharing information and good practice, and developing links between the two organisations and the voluntary sectors.

Themes covered in past Seminars include Pensions and Disabilities (2003), Families with particular emphasis on Carers and Lone parents (2004), "Best Practice" within both Departments, and issues relating to posted workers (2005), and the Challenge of providing social services in multi-ethnic society, with a particular focus on the migrant worker mobility in 2006. The theme for the 2007 Seminar was "Supporting people in older life".

In addition, the ninth annual Social Welfare Summer School was held in the National University of Ireland, Maynooth College, between 12th-8th August 2007. This joint venture between my Department and DSD, which is hosted alternately between both jurisdictions, aims to provide staff in both Departments with the opportunity to study a specific policy theme in an academic setting.

Finally, common text, which appears in Ireland's National Action Plan for Social Inclusion 2007-2016 and in Northern Ireland's Lifetime Opportunities: Government's Anti-Poverty and Social Inclusion Strategy for Northern Ireland, outlines how the UK and Irish Governments are committed to developing and promoting co-operation in relation to combating poverty and social exclusion. It commits Ireland and Northern Ireland to preparing a Joint Report to include: an overview of areas of existing North/South co-operation; areas potentially suitable for further cooperation; and advice on the mechanisms by which this work might be undertaken and delivered.

The common text also appeared in the Irish and UK's National Strategies for Social Protection and Social Inclusion (NSSPI), covering the period 2006 to 2008, which were submitted to the EU by each Member State in September 2006.

In February of this year, approval was given by the British Irish Inter-Governmental Conference (BIIGC) to continuing North/South joint work to alleviate ‘social exclusion, poverty and deprivation to help create a more inclusive society on the island of Ireland'.

Officials of my Department continue their long-standing practice of liaising with their counterparts in Northern Ireland and other jurisdictions on matters relating to controlling abuses of social welfare schemes.

Question No. 327 answered with QuestionNo. 320.

Social Welfare Appeals.

Michael Ring

Question:

328 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an oral hearing will be held for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [22688/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that the appeal from the person concerned has been referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.

Appeals Officers are statutorily appointed to determine appeals independently of my Department and I have no role in relation to such determinations.

Family Support Services.

Provide a Family Mediation Service throughout the country.

The Family Support Agency also has a responsibility to undertake or commission research, to advise, inform and assist me as Minister for Social and Family Affairs and to promote and disseminate information about family-related issues.

Investment in the Family Support Agency has more than doubled since its establishment in 2003. Investment for each year since its inception is as follows:

2003 €17.28 million

2004 €20.19 million

2005 €24.46 million

2006 €28.03 million

2007 €35.3 million

The scheme of grants for voluntary organisations providing marriage, child and bereavement counselling services is a non-statutory scheme of once-off grants to voluntary organisations providing a range of family counselling services aimed at enhancing stability in family life, and assisting families and their members to deal with difficult periods which they may experience.

In 2007 almost €10 million has been provided by the Family Support Agency and a total of 561 organisations countrywide received funding under the scheme. This record investment — an increase of one third in just 4 years — has been informed by research launched earlier this year which indicated that up to 70,000 people across the country benefit each year from counselling funded by the Family Support Agency.

The following table outlines the total amounts of funding allocated for the scheme for each of the last four years. It also gives a breakdown of the total funding under each grant category:

	Number of groups funded	Marriage/ Relationship Counselling	Child Counselling	Bereavement Counselling/ Support	Marriage Preparation	Total
		€	€	€	€	€
2004	523	4,375,235	1,002,290	1,299,505	783,970	7,461,000
2005	547	4,780,650	1,177,280	1,473,570	826,500	8,258,000
2006	541	5,144,550	1,153,548	1,829,070	881,600	9,008,768
2007	561	5,589,750	1,343,900	2,053,350	842,000	9,929,000

Olwyn Enright

Question:

333 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of groups who have received funding from the Family Support Agency each year for the past four years; the names of these groups; the amount allocated to each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22712/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

Due to the large number of organisations funded over the four years in question, it has not been possible to collate all of the relevant information for the Deputy in the short timescale involved.

A complete list of all relevant groups with details of funding received is currently being prepared and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

334 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the research commissioned by the Family Support Agency since its inception; the research which has been published; the actions his Department has taken on foot of such research; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22713/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The Family Support Agency (FSA) was established in 2003 to bring together the pro-family related programmes and services which are designed to promote local family support, help prevent marital breakdown, promote continuity and stability in family life and support ongoing parenting relationships for children.

As part of its statutory functions, the Family Support Agency has a responsibility to undertake or commission research, to advise, inform and assist me as Minister for Social and Family Affairs and to promote and disseminate information about family-related issues.

Since the activation of the Agency's research function in September 2004, three pieces of research have been directly commissioned.

In 2005 a review of the 1st phase of the Family Research Programme was commissioned and published in April 2006 ("Family Research in Ireland"). This review included an outline of research issues which now guides the current phase of the programme operated by the FSA.

In 2005 the Agency also commissioned a review of the scheme of grants to voluntary organisations, operated by the Agency. Published in 2006, several of the recommendations from the review have been implemented, while others will be considered as part of the ongoing development of the scheme.

The Agency has just signed a contract for a fundamental review of the Family Mediation Service provided by the Agency including recommendations to inform the future development of the service. This project is scheduled to begin towards the end of this year.

In addition to commissioned research the Agency is funding research undertaken by outside organisations under its Research Grant Programme, through the provision of grants for projects which come within the Agency's research remit.

In 2007 funding has been approved for 2 projects. The first is a project, being undertaken by One Family, to examine the need, in light of increased family breakdown, for family and child contact centres and how best to meet that need. The second project is being carried out by the ESRI which will use 2006 Census data and other relevant data sources to explore trends in family dynamics and family types in Ireland over the period 1986-2006.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

335 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of family and community services resource centre programmes in place; the locations of same; the details of those due to come on stream in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22714/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The Family and Community Services Resource Centre programme comes under the auspices of the statutory Family Support Agency. The programme provides for a network of Family Resource Centres which aim to help combat disadvantage by supporting the functioning of the family unit.

The services provided and activities supported by the resource centres are designed to meet the needs of the local community and include the provision of training, information, advice and support to target groups and families in the area; the provision of education courses, childcare facilities to those attending such courses and the running of after-school clubs.

Family Resource Centres provide services for lone parent families, young mothers and others considered in need of extra support. They can act as a first step to community participation and social inclusion.

Family Resource Centres are run by voluntary management committees, comprised of members of the local community.

A review of the Family Resource Centre Programme launched in February 2007 showed that almost 850,000 visits were made to family resource centres during 2005, with 140,000 people receiving advice and information and almost 16,000 people completing training courses.

At the end of 2006, 100 FRCs were in place. Six new centres have been approved for inclusion in 2007, bringing the total number of centres in the Programme to 106. The six new centres are as follows:

Taghmon Action Group, Taghmon, Co. Wexford

Iveragh Community & Residents Association, Killorglin, Co Kerry

Cara House, Letterkenny, Co Donegal

Drogheda Community Development Group, Drogheda, Co Louth

Dunmanway Family Resource Centre, Co Cork

Clones Community Forum Ltd, Clones, Co Monaghan

A complete list of all Family Resource Centres is set out in the following Appendix.

List of Family Resource Centres in the Family and Community Services Resource Centre Programme

	The Eastern Region — the Greater Dublin Area, Kildare and Wicklow or parts thereof
1.	Artane Coolock Resource & Development Centre, 55 Gracefield Road, Artane, Dublin 5.
2.	Balally Family Resource Centre Ltd. The Scout Den, Wedgewood, Dublin 16.
3.	Baldoyle Family Resource Centre, Main Building, Respond Housing Development, Grange Road, Baldoyle, Dublin 13.
4.	Ballyboden Family Resource Centre, 29 Whitechurch Way, Ballyboden, Dublin 16.
5.	Ballyfermot Family Resource Centre, Lynches Lane, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10.
6.	Ballyogan Family Resource Centre, 41 Ballyogan Avenue, Carrickmines, Dublin 18.
7.	Cherry Orchard Family Resource Centre, The Bungalow, 28, Elmdale Drive, Cherry Orchard, Dublin 10.
8.	Curragh Pride Family Resource Centre, 1 Griffith Road, Curragh Camp, Co. Kildare.
9.	Drop in Well Family Resource Centre, 34 Coultry Road, Ballymun, Dublin 9.
10.	Fatima Group United Family Resource Centre, 18j Fatima Mansions, Rialto, Dublin 8.
11.	Hill Street Family Resource Centre, Hill Street, Dublin 1.
12.	Hillview Community Resource Centre, 33/34 Hillview Grove, Ballinteer, Dublin 16.
13.	Killinarden Family Resource Centre, Killinarden, Tallaght, Dublin 24.
14.	Mountview Resource Centre Ltd, 11 Whitechapel Crescent, Mountview, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.
15.	Quarryvale Family Resource Centre, Shancastle Avenue, Quarryvale, Clondalkin, Dublin 22.
16.	Rosemount Family Resource Centre, 3 Rosemount Court, Dundrum, Dublin 1.
17.	School Street/Thomas Court Bawn Family Resource Centre Ltd. 22/23 School Street, Dublin 8.
18.	St. Andrew’s Family Resource Centre, 114-116 Pearse Street, Dublin 2.
19.	St. Kevin’s Family Resource Centre, Saint Kevin’s Girls School, Treepark Road, Kilnamanagh, Tallaght, Dublin 24.
20.	St. Matthew’s Family Resource Centre, 5, Drumfinn Park, Ballyfermot, Dublin 19.
21.	Newbridge Family Resource Centre, Dara Park, Newbridge, Co. Kildare.
22.	Greystone’s People’s Project Family Resource Centre, La Touche Road, Greystones, Co. Wicklow.
	The South East Region — Wexford, Waterford, Carlow, Kilkenny and Tipperary S.R.
23.	Bagenalstown Family Resource Centre, Chestnut Court, Royal Oak Road, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow.
24.	Forward Steps Resource Centre, Chapel Lane, Tullow, Co. Carlow.
25.	Clogh Family Resource Centre, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny.
26.	Droichead Community Centre, The Friary Complex, Callan, Co. Kilkenny.
27.	Kilmuckridge Family Resource Centre, C/o Health Centre, Kilmuckridge, Gorey, Co. Wexford.
28.	Newpark Close Community Development Ltd, Newpark Close, Kilkenny.
29.	St. Canices Community Action, Fr. McGrath Community Centre, St. Joseph’s Road, Kilkenny.
30.	Millennium Family Resource Centre, New Bermingham, Thurles, Co Tipperary.
31.	Spafield Family Resource Centre, Spafield Crescent, Cashel, Co Tipperary.
32.	Sacred Heart Community & Childcare Project, Community Buildings, Richardsons Meadow, Old Tramore Road, Waterford.
33.	South End Community Group, 1, Trespan Court, The Faythe, Wexford.
34.	St. Brigid’s Family & Community Centre, 37 Lower Yellow Road, Waterford.
35.	Raheen Family Resource Centre, Raheen, Clonroche, Co. Wexford.
36.	Taghmon Action Group, Main Street, Taghmon, Co Wexford.
37.	Three Drives Family Resource Centre Ltd, 22/23 Greenane Drive, Tipperary Town, Tipperary.
	The Southern Region — Cork, Kerry
38.	Adrigole Family Resource Centre, c/o The Caha Centre, Ardigole Community Hall, Adrigole, Beara, Co. Cork.
39.	Bandon Family Resource Centre, Deerpark Family Centre, Bandon, Co. Cork.
40.	Castletownbere Family & Community Resource Ltd., The Haven, The Square, Castletownbere, Co. Cork.
41.	Cobh Family Resource Centre, Park House, Cloyne Terrace, Cobh, Co. Cork.
42.	Dunmanway Family Resource Centre, Tonafora, Bantry Road, Dunmanway, Co. Cork.
43.	F.A.C.T. Ballincollig Family Resource Centre, 134 Castle Park, Ballincollig, Co. Cork.
44.	Le Cheile Family Resource Centre (Mallow) Ltd., 33, Fair Street, Mallow, Co. Cork.
45.	Midleton Community Forum Ltd, Community Building, Oakwood Lodge, Youghal Road, Midleton, Co. Cork.
46.	Abbeydorney/Kilflynn Family Resource Centre, Co. Kerry.
47.	Ballyspillane Community & Family Centre, Ballyspillane, Killarney. Co. Kerry.
48.	Castlemaine Family Resource Centre, Castlemaine, Co. Kerry.
49.	BUDS Family Resource Centre, Ballyduff, Tralee, Co. Kerry.
50.	Caherciveen Community Resource Centre, Church Street, Caherciveen, Co. Kerry.
51.	Duagh Family Resource Centre, Duagh Village, Listowel, Co. Kerry.
52.	Iveragh Resource Centre, Killorglin, Co. Kerry.
53.	Kerryhead/Ballyheigue Family Resource Centre, “Bayside” Ballyheigue, Co. Kerry.
54.	Presentation Family Centre Ltd., Greenville, Listowel, Co. Kerry.
55.	Shanakill Family Resource Centre Ltd., Shanakill, Monavalley, Tralee, Co. Kerry.
56.	Sneem Family Resource Centre, New Street, Sneem, Co. Kerry.
57.	St. Brigid’s Community Centre, Hawley Park, Tralee, Co. Kerry.
	The Mid West Region — Clare, Limerick and Tipperary N. R.
58.	North West Clare Family Resource Centre, Monastery House, Parliament St, Ennistymon, Co. Clare.
59.	Killaloe/Ballina Family Resource Centre 2, Ryagan House, Shantraud, Killaloe, Co. Clare.
60.	Kilrush Family Resource Centre Ltd, The Community Centre, Toler Street, Kilrush, Co. Clare.
61.	Shannon Family Resource Centre, Respond Centre, Rineanna View, Shannon, Co. Clare.
62.	Croom Family Resource Centre, 40 Main Street, Croom, Co. Limerick.
63.	Hospital Family Resource Centre, Knockainey Road, Hospital, Limerick.
64.	Southill Family Resource Centre, 267-268, Avondale Court, O’Malley Park, Southill, Limerick.
65.	St. Munchin’s Family Resource Centre, 26-28 Clonconnane Road, Ballynanty, Limerick.
	The Western Region — Galway, Mayo
66.	Aonad Resource Centre, The Square, Ballygar, Co. Galway.
67.	Clann Resource Centre Oughterard Ltd, Main Street, Oughterard, Co. Galway.
68.	Gort Family Resource Centre, Market Hall, Church Street, Gort, Co. Galway.
69.	Solas Resource Centre, The Parish Hall, Headford, Co. Galway.
70.	Loughrea Town Family Resource Centre, Millennium House, Westbridge, Co. Galway.
71.	Ballina Family Resource Centre, Pound Street, Co. Mayo.
72.	Ballinrobe Family Resource Centre, Glebe Street, Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo.
73.	Castlebar Family Resource Centre, Castlebar, Co. Mayo.
74.	Claremorris Family Resource Centre, Claremorris, Co. Mayo.
75.	Cairdeas Community Centre, Kilmovee, Ballaghdereen, Co. Mayo.
76.	Neart hAmhnais Teoranta, The Friary House, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo.
77.	Westport Family Resource Centre, The Fairgreen, Westport, Co. Mayo.
	The Midland Region — Laois, Offaly, Westmeath, Longford and Roscommon
78.	Knockmay Committee & Family Resource Centre Ltd, 106/107 Cherrygrove, Knockmay, Portloaise, Co. Laois.
79.	Bridgeways Family Resource Centre, Dean Egan Library, Main Street, Ballymahon. Co. Longford.
80.	Granard Area Action Group, Main Street, Granard, Co. Longford.
81.	Arden View Community & Family Resource Centre, Arden View, Tullamore, Co. Offaly.
82.	Clara Family Resource Centre, The Parochial Hall, River Street, Clara, Co. Offaly.
83.	Family Life Centre, Knocknashee, Boyle, Co. Roscommon.
84.	Cara-Phort Family Resource Centre, Harbour Street, Ballynacargy, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath.
85.	Monsignor McCarthy Family Resource Centre, Battery Heights, Athlone, Co. Westmeath.
	The North East Region — Cavan, Monaghan, Meath and Louth
86.	Teach Oscail Resource Project Ltd, Tullacmongan, Kilmooney Drive, Co. Cavan.
87.	The Peoples Resource Centre, 5 Church Street, Kells, Co Meath
88.	Trim Family Resource Centre, 22 Mornington Drive, Trim, Co Meath.
89.	Clones Community Forum, 1 Celtic House, Fermanagh Street, Clones, Co. Monaghan.
90.	Mullaghmatt Cortolvin Community Dev. Ltd, Teach na Daoine, Oriel Road, Mullaghmatt, Co Monaghan.
91.	Drogheda Community Development Group, Drogheda, Co Louth
	The North West Region — Donegal, Sligo, and Leitrim.
92.	Donegal Town Family Resource Centre, C/O St., John Bosco Centre, Donegal Town, Donegal.
93.	Cara House, Market Square, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal.
94.	Downstrands Family Resource Centre, The Dolmen Centre, Kilclooney, Co. Donegal.
95.	Dunfanaghy Community Resource Association, Resource Office, Main Street, Dunfanaghy. Co. Donegal.
96.	Moville & District Family Resource Centre Ltd, 2, Montgomery Terrace, Moville, Co. Donegal.
97.	The Forge Family Resource Centre, Main Street, Pettigo, Co. Donegal.
98.	Mevagh Family Resource Centre, Aras Rosgoill, Na Dunaibh, Co. Dhun na nGall.
99.	Raphoe Youth and Community Resource Centre, Unit 3 Marathon Building, William Street, Raphoe, Co. Donegal.
100.	St. Johnston & Carrigans Family Resource Centre, Chapel Road, St. Johnston, Lifford, Co. Donegal.
101.	Breffni Community Development Co. Ltd. Community House, Breffni Crescent, Carrick on Shannon, Co. Leitrim.
102.	Mohill Family Support Centre Ltd, Hyde Street, Mohill, Co. Leitrim.
103.	Ballymote Family Resource Centre, Wolfe Tone Street, Ballymote, Co. Sligo.
104.	Easkey Community Famiy Resource Centre Ltd, Easkey House, Easkey, Co. Sligo.
105.	Sligo Family Centre, 49, The Mall, Sligo.
106.	Tubbercurry Family Resource Centre, Conon House, Humbert Street, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

336 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the average length of time of assessment for a carer’s allowance application from the date of application to the date of payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22715/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The average time for deciding an application for carer's allowance is currently 10.64 weeks. During 2006 the average was just over ten weeks. My Department's claim processing target for Carers Allowance is for 70% of claims to be decided within nine weeks of submission.

The number of claims for Carers Allowance submitted in 2006 at nearly 11,000 was more than 20% higher than the total for 2005. In 2007 to date (at 28 September) some 10,500 claims have been received. A number of steps have been taken to deal with the increased volumes, including the deployment of additional staff and enhancements to processing procedures.

Entitlement to carer's allowance is based on an applicant satisfying medical, means and residency conditions. In determining entitlement to the allowance there are, in certain cases, unavoidable time lags involved in making the necessary investigations and enquiries to enable accurate decisions to be made. Delays can also arise if persons applying for the allowance are not in a position to supply all the necessary information in support of their claim.

Many applicants for carer's allowance are already in receipt of another social welfare payment while their claim is being processed. Such payments will normally continue until entitlement to their carer's allowance is determined.

Over 10,000 new claims have been decided this year (to 28th September). The volume of claims decided so far this year represents a 5.6% increase on the total claims decided in 2006 and a 14.4% increase on the total claims decided in 2005.

There are currently some 3,100 cases at various stages of processing and awaiting finalisation. Of these claims, some 2,800 were received in the last three weeks.

The large increase in applications for Carer's Allowance is related to the introduction of the Half Rate Carers Allowance payment which was announced in the 2006 Budget and came into effect from 27th of September 2007. It is expected that the majority of claims currently on hands will be processed within the next ten weeks.

Departmental Agencies.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

337 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has provided the Government with a report on the future of the Reach initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22716/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The Reach Board was reconstituted earlier this year so that Departments and Agencies making use of Reach services would be involved more closely in relation to current Reach operations.

This new Board, together with the Departments of the Taoiseach and Finance, are overseeing a review of the new role and operations of the Reach project including that of the public service broker.

The review is currently underway and the Board expects to report, on target, by the end of the year. I will bring forward proposals for the future of Reach following receipt of that report.

Carers’ Strategy.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

338 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the work undertaken to date by his Department to contribute towards the development of a carer’s strategy as committed to in Towards 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22717/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

One of the key Government commitments in the national partnership agreement "Towards 2016 ” is the development of a national carer’s strategy and this commitment is reiterated in the Programme for Government. The strategy will focus on supporting informal and family carers in the community. While social welfare supports for carers will clearly be a key issue in the strategy, other issues such as access to respite and other services, education, training and employment will also feature strongly. Co-operation between relevant Government departments and agencies is essential if the provision of services, supports and entitlements for carers is to be fully addressed. For that reason all relevant departments and agencies will be involved in the strategy and there will be appropriate consultation with the social partners. My Department, along with a number of others, is examining how this issue can best be addressed.

The Programme for Government also includes significant commitments in relation to support for carers. I will keep the supports for carers available from my Department under review in order continue to improve the schemes and ensure that commitments in relation to income support are delivered.

Anti-Poverty Strategy.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

339 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the progress made on the roll out of the poverty impact assessment across all Departments; the Departments which have had it rolled out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22718/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

Poverty proofing was introduced in 1998 on foot of a commitment in the first National Anti-Poverty Strategy. It is defined as "the process whereby Government policies and programmes are assessed at design, implementation and review stages in relation to their impact on poverty and on inequalities which are likely to lead to poverty, with a view to poverty reduction". Since 1998 it has been a requirement for significant policy proposals to indicate clearly the impact of a proposal on persons in poverty or at risk of falling into poverty.

Following a review of the poverty proofing process, the Office for Social Inclusion, which is based in my Department, has now produced a revised set of guidelines for what is now termed Poverty Impact Assessment. This change of name is intended to underline that the emphasis in the process should be on outcomes and that poverty impact assessment should form an integral part of the policy making process.

The revised guidelines are designed to better assist policy makers across all levels of Government in evaluating policy proposals in terms of their potential impact on poverty. They include a number of new steps to make the process more useful and transparent and a requirement to monitor the impact of any policy change.

The revised guidelines have been published on the website of the Office for Social Inclusion and have been presented to all Government Departments, who have responsibility for their implementation.

Support for the work of the Office for Social Inclusion in developing effective poverty proofing mechanisms is a key commitment in the Programme for Government. Following presentation, the Office is now commencing more focussed assistance to individual departments on implementation of the new guidelines. The experience gained from this process will also aid the development of training for staff in this regard across all government departments, as appropriate. The Office is also working with the Combat Poverty Agency on applying the new guidelines in a local government context.

I am confident that the new guidelines will serve as an effective tool in ensuring that the priority of combating poverty and social exclusion is kept to the fore in policy making and implementation at all levels of Government.

Memorandum of Understanding.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

340 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his Department has concluded its MOU with the Revenue Commissioners; the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22719/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The Department and the Revenue Commissioners are, at present, negotiating a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The new MOU is designed to build on the close co-operation that already exists between this Department and the Revenue Commissioners by improving and intensifying the levels and scope of existing administrative and operational arrangements between the two organisations. To that end, it is mindful of the respective roles and missions of each as public service organisations, of the particular importance of the services provided by each and in recognition of the growing interdependences between them in achieving delivery of those services to the highest standard.

The scope of the draft MOU covers aspects such as

the timely collection by Revenue on behalf of the Department, of pay related social insurance (PRSI) contributions;

transfer to the Department of monies so collected in an agreed manner and within agreed timescales;

the provision of accurate customer information and data as to be established by Revenue;

the timely transfer of information and data by the Department to Revenue;

active joint co-operation in combating fraud;

maximising the opportunities offered by new technologies;

shared services (for example in relation to printing);

joint training; and

related practices and provisions on governance, monitoring, consultation and ongoing review.

Discussions are ongoing and it is expected that these will be concluded before the end of the year.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

341 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of children who were in receipt of the back to school clothing and footwear allowance in 2007; the amount paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22720/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The back to school clothing and footwear allowance scheme (BSCFA) operates from the beginning of June to the end of September each year and is administered on behalf of my Department by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive. (HSE)

The BSCFA scheme provides a one-off payment to eligible families to assist with the extra costs when their children start school each autumn. The allowance is intended as a contribution towards meeting the full cost of school clothing and footwear.

Budget 2007 provided for an increase of €60 per child to €180 for children aged 2 to 11 years and €95 per child to €285 for children aged 12 to 22 years.

In 2007, it is estimated that over 170,000 children will benefit from the back to school clothing and footwear allowance scheme at an annual cost in excess of €38 million. This is an increase on the 2006 figures when some 161,000 children benefited at a cost of €23.5m.

I consider the back to school clothing and footwear allowance scheme to be an important support for parents at a time of particular financial strain. I am satisfied that the improvements to the scheme for this year provide a major boost to meeting the financial costs associated with return to school for those who most need assistance.

Any further improvements to the scheme would have to be considered in the light of resources available in Budget 2008 for improvements in social welfare payments generally.

Child Support.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

342 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if there is a backlog in payment of the early child care supplement; the length of this backlog; if it relates to a particular area; the way he will address same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22721/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The Early Childcare Supplement (ECS), which is payable in respect of children under the age of 6 years is automatically awarded when Child Benefit is awarded.

The majority of Child Benefit and ECS awards are processed either automatically or in a partially automated fashion for children born in Ireland once their birth details are registered with the General Registrar's Office. Parents are contacted in most cases by the Child Benefit office within two days of the registration of their child's birth. The Early Childcare Supplement is paid automatically when Child Benefit is awarded.

Currently Child Benefit section is processing a number of claims for children born outside Ireland but living here with their parents and for children living in other EU countries who have a parent or parents working in Ireland.

There is a total of 6,000 claims for non-national children resident in Ireland at various stages of processing prior to finalisation. These cases tend to be slower to process as the customer must satisfy the Habitual Residency condition test and this may entail contacting employers, Department of Justice and other relevant bodies to confirm their status in the state. In approx 40% of these cases — some 2400 claims — there maybe an entitlement to ECS in respect of children under 6 years of age.

A total of some 20,000 claims from EU nationals for non-resident children is also being processed at present. EU nationals who come to work in Ireland but whose families remain in their home country may have an entitlement to Family Benefits in Ireland under EU Regulation 1408/71. The number of these claims where an entitlement to ECS may exist is estimated at 8,000 (48%).

Before payment of Child Benefit is made for non-resident children it is necessary to contact the authorities in the country of residency of the children to confirm details and establish what if any family benefits are payable there. This process can take a number of months to complete and, as a result, the number of claims that has been finalised to date is relatively small.

The number of claims received from EU nationals for non-resident children is down approximately 50% on the same period in 2006. This reduction in claim numbers plus the recent assignment of additional staff will ensure that the claims are processed more speedily over the coming months.

Social Welfare Code.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

343 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when the National Economic and Social Council is expected to report to him on examining the feasibility of merging the family income supplement with the qualified child increase; if they are examining including other child supports; when this report will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22722/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

Under the terms of an earlier Social Partnership agreement the National Economic and Social Council (NESC) was asked to examine the feasibility of merging the family income supplement with qualified child increases and possibly including other child supports such as the back to school clothing and footwear allowance, resulting in a single second tier child income support. Such a payment would be aimed specifically at targeting child poverty by channelling resources to low-income families without creating significant disincentives to employment. This commitment to examining such a change was subsequently embodied in the current social partnership agreement ‘Toward 2016'.

NESC research on the subject is expected to be available soon. The council has indicated that, as the proposed second tier income support would represent a new approach to targeting, the issues involved are complex and there are technical and policy challenges to be overcome. The Council's analysis of these issues will, when received, be of assistance in informing the future direction of child income support policy.

€2.6 billion was spent by my Department on child income supports in 2006, with child benefit accounting for approximately 80% of this figure. The substantial improvements in targeted measures announced in Budget 2007 for children in low income and welfare families will also have an important impact on child poverty.

For instance, family income supplement thresholds were raised in Budget 2007, increasing the weekly payments of almost all existing FIS recipients by €9 for a one child family, to €111 for a family with eight or more children. Research has shown that poverty is more likely to be concentrated in larger families and this improvement continues the re-focusing of thresholds towards larger families which started in Budget 2006, thereby further targeting resources at low-income households.

In Budget 2007 all three qualified child increase rates which had remained unchanged since 1994, were increased to a single rate of €22 per week. In addition, the annual back to school clothing and footwear allowance, which provides income support for the poorest families at a particularly difficult time of the year, was increased by €60 for children aged 2 to 11, and by €95 for children aged 12 to 22, bringing the rates of payment to €180 and €285 respectively.

While jobs are the most effective way of lifting families and their children out of poverty, these changes represent a more selective approach to child income support through targeting children in poorer households while at the same time limiting the extent to which employment incentives are worsened.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

344 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the work completed to date by the steering committee on the back to education allowance; the work that has yet to be completed; when completion is expected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22723/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

As part of the Government Expenditure Review Programme a working group chaired by my Department was established to review the expenditure under the back to education allowance scheme. The Group comprised representatives of the Departments of Social & Family Affairs, Enterprise Trade and Employment, Education and Science, Finance and FÁS. The report of the working group was published in September 2005.

The working group made nine recommendations with regard to the future administration of the back to education allowance scheme. The main recommendations of the group focused on the separating out of the roles of my Department, which provides income support, and Department of Education and Science which provides for the delivery of courses and educational supports.

In January 2006 a group with representatives from the Departments, Education and Science, Finance and FÁS was established to implement the recommendations of the Expenditure Review. This group is working on an ongoing basis to progress the implementation of the recommendations. It is intended that the work of the group will be completed for the 2009 academic year.

A number of the recommendations of the Working Group have been achieved. These include earlier access to the allowance for participants of the National Employment Action Plan (NEAP) — access is now available for qualified participants who have been in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance for nine months as opposed to a requirement for twelve months previously. Additionally the scheme has been extended to include all those of working age in receipt of a Social Welfare payment.

Adult Education.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

345 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number and names of the projects or initiatives that received grants towards the development and promotion of second chance education opportunities in 2006 and to date in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22724/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The Second Chance Education Opportunities Scheme is designed to assist programmes, projects and initiatives which provide second chance education opportunities to long term unemployed and other disadvantaged groups. The overall objective is to encourage those target groups to return to education and training as a means of improving their educational qualifications with a view to returning to the labour force. The budget allocation for the Scheme in 2007 is €380,000.

In 2006, four initiatives were funded by my Department under the Scheme as follows:

	€
The Open Learning Centre, Coláiste Íde	44,500
The Larkin Centre for the Unemployed	95,458
The Open Learning Centre, Coláiste Íde	74,500
Warrenmount CED Centre Ltd	46,000
Total	260,458

Applications for funding under this Scheme are generally received towards the end of the year. To date in 2007 two applications for funding have been approved under the scheme as follows:

	€
Dublin YMCA	5,675
Dublin Adult Learning Centre	150,000
Total	155,675

Social Welfare Benefits.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

346 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when notification regarding carer’s benefit will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath. [22725/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The person concerned applied for Carer's Allowance on 9 May 2007. The principal conditions for receipt of this allowance are that full time care and attention is required and being provided and that the means test that applies is satisfied.

The person concerned was refused Carer's Allowance on the grounds that full time care and attention as prescribed in regulations is not required in this case.

On 21 August 2007 the person concerned was notified of the decision, the reason for it and his right of review or appeal to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office.

The person concerned submitted additional medical evidence in respect of the care recipient, however the evidence failed to alter the decision of the Department's Chief Medical Advisor and the decision remains unchanged.

On 4 October 2007 the person concerned was notified of the decision and of his right of appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.

Under Social Welfare legislation, decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These Officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.

Social Welfare Appeals.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

347 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when his Department hold oral hearings on appeals; the way the locations are determined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22765/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

Appeals are determined by Appeals Officers attached to the Social Welfare Appeals Office of my Department and who are independent in their determinations.

I am advised by that Office that oral hearings are held every week at venues around the country as convenient as possible to the appellant.

The selection of locations to be visited is based on the number of appeals on hand in a particular area in a given week. In general, those who are waiting longest can expect to be scheduled for hearing when next an Appeals Officer is in the area. A small number of cases are given special priority when exceptional circumstances arise.

The Social Welfare Appeals Office deals with about 14,000 appeals on an annual basis and the provision of a prompt service remains a major customer service objective for the Office. Available resources are prioritized to the greatest possible extent so as to achieve the best possible standard of service to its customers.

Pension Provisions.

Michael McGrath

Question:

348 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason the pre-retirement credits scheme was discontinued in July 2007; if his Department advertised the discontinuation of the scheme; and if he will consider an application under the scheme from a person (details supplied) in County Cork who resigned their employment position during the summer 2007 in anticipation of benefiting from the scheme. [22774/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The Pre-Retirement Credits Scheme (PRECS) enables credits to be awarded to persons who are aged 55 years or older, who are retired from the workforce and no longer looking for work and who, in the immediately preceding period, were in receipt of either Jobseeker's Benefit/Allowance or credits in respect of 390 days of continuous unemployment. Pre-retirement credits can only be maintained through a signed annual declaration from the claimant (i.e. that confirms his or her unemployment and retirement from the workforce) and are reckonable for the Widow's/Widower's (Contributory) Pension, the Deserted Wife's Benefit, the Guardian's Payment (Contributory) and occupational injuries benefits only.

From July 4th, 2007 the Scheme was discontinued for new entrants. This was done in conjunction with the phasing out the Pre-Retirement Allowance (PRETA) and is consistent with efforts being made to encourage and facilitate people to continue working up to and beyond pension age. Labour market conditions have improved dramatically since the introduction of PRETA in 1990. The practical effect of conditions in 1990 was that many long-term unemployed persons over 55 years of age were unlikely to work again, and it was not meaningful to continue to ask them to prove that they were actively seeking employment. The drop in long-term unemployment since that time has meant that this rationale has largely disappeared.

People of working age who are no longer liable for PRSI contributions may opt to protect their pension entitlements by applying to become a voluntary contributor. In order to be admitted to the voluntary contributions scheme, a person must have a minimum of 260 weeks of PRSI paid in either employment or self-employment and apply within 12 months of being insurable. The requirement to have 260 paid contributions to gain access to the scheme is essential in that it ensures that the requisite number of paid contributions required is in place to establish a contributory pension entitlement.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Sean Fleming

Question:

349 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason people on community employment schemes are not eligible for the back to school clothing and footwear allowance; his views on changing the policy on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22880/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

The back to school clothing and footwear allowance (BSCFA) scheme provides a one-off payment to eligible families to assist with the extra costs when their children start school each autumn. The allowance is not intended to meet the full cost of school clothing and footwear but only to provide assistance towards these costs. A person may qualify for payment of an allowance if they are in receipt of a social welfare payment or Health Service Executive (HSE) payment, are participating in an approved employment scheme or attending a recognised education and training course, and have household income at or below certain set levels. People participating in Community Employment (CE) schemes are eligible to apply for BSCFA. The Community Employment (CE) scheme is included, among others, as one of the qualifying payments for the purposes of the BSCFA scheme.

Participants in a CE scheme are assessed under the standard rules for BSCFA. The weekly income limit appropriate to a single person with one child is €331.30. For a couple with one child, the income limit is €470.80. This limit increases by €22 for each eligible child.

Any changes to the current income limits for the back to school clothing and footwear allowance scheme would have cost implications and would have to be considered in a budget context and in the light of the resources available to me for improvements in social welfare generally.

Pension Provisions.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

350 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the report, advice, or other research which currently informs his Department’s policy on income adequacy for pensioners generally and for older pensioners in particular; when income adequacy for pensioners was last subject to a substantial policy review; when the rate for the over 80 allowance was last subject to substantial review as to its adequacy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22896/07]

Minister for Social and Family Affairs (Deputy Martin Cullen)

Policy in relation to pensioner's incomes is informed by the wide range of research carried out in this area, both nationally and internationally. Commitments contained in the Programme for Government in relation to social welfare payment rates and the overall targets for retirement income suggested by the Pensions Board in the National Pensions Review are of particular importance. The latter, published in 2006, re-examined and reaffirmed targets suggested in the National Pensions Policy Initiative in 1998. These targets, which have informed policy since then, recommended a replacement income, from all sources, of 50% of pre-retirement income and a social welfare contributory pension latest rate of 34% of Gross Average Industrial Earnings. The increase in the state pension (contributory) implemented in Budget 2007 has moved the contributory pension ahead of the Pensions Board target and the commitment to a pension of €300 per week contained in the Government programme will, more than likely, see further progress in the area.

The Department also monitors regular statistical releases such as the EU Survey of Income and Living Conditions (SILC) to track the effectiveness of income policies. In this regard, using the official consistent poverty indicator, older people are in a relatively better position than the rest of the population with 3.7% in consistent poverty against 7% overall in 2005.

The risk of poverty rate based on relative incomes is more or less the same for both groups with the rate for older people showing significant improvement from 2004 to 2005, with the rate falling from 27% to 20%. Significant increases in pension rates implemented in 2006 and 2007 should see the position of older people improving further.

The over 80 allowance was increased in 2006 to its present level of €10 per week and there is a commitment in the Programme for Government to pay the allowance also in respect of the qualified adult portion of the pension. There has been no systematic review of the adequacy of the allowance. However, that Social Portrait of Older People, published by the Office of Social Inclusion earlier this year, shows that poverty rates for older pensioners i.e. aged 75 and over, were lower than for younger pensioners.

The forthcoming Green Paper on pensions will include a discussion on the incomes of older people, including the sources of that income and with comparisons of different household types, age and gender. Trends in relation to poverty risks will also be dealt with as well as international comparisons of pensioners' incomes. The Green Paper will be published shortly.

The needs of older people have been, and will remain, a priority for the Government. The Government Programme envisages a 50% increase in social welfare pensions over the next 5 years and further reforms and improvements will be considered in the context of the publication of the Green Paper and the development of a framework for long-term pensions policy that is to follow its publication.

Local Drugs Task Forces.

Róisín Shortall

Question:

351 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, in relation to the 2007 allocations under the young people’s facilities and services fund, he will set out the value of the applications for funding received from each of the local drugs task forces plus Galway, Limerick and Waterford cities and Carlow Town; and if he will set out the actual amount allocated in each case. [22449/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Pat Carey)

As the Deputy will be aware, I recently announced a capital investment of nearly €7m to support 42 projects under the Young Peoples Facilities & Services Fund (YPFSF). Details of the successful projects are set out in my press release of 24th September, which is available on my Department's website, through the following link: http://www.pobail.ie/en/PressReleases/ file,8610,en.doc

The value of the applications for funding received and the amounts allocated in each of the 18 YPFSF areas is as follows at Appendix A. The 18 areas include the 14 Local Drugs Task Force areas.

In addition, three capital applications, totalling €1.075m, were approved for funding earlier this year — Finglas Cabra — €290,000 (two projects), Waterford — €335,000 (two projects) and Bray — €450,000 (three projects). Therefore, the total amount approved for capital projects this year to date is approx. €8m.

On the current side, an amount of €436,500 was allocated to four projects in further current funding in 2007 (€10,000 — Finglas/Cabra; €206,500 — Galway; €161,000 — Ballymun and €59,000 — Ballyfermot). Overall, just over €12.9m is being provided by my Department in 2007 to cover the current costs associated with the YPFSF (staffing and associated costs).

Appendix A
Development Group	Eligible Projects Proposed by Development Groups	Projects Approved
	€	€
Ballyfermot	666,510	30,510
Ballymun	757,000	147,000
Blanchardstown	725,000	725,000
Bray	163,500	163,500
Canal Communities	320,417	232,240
Carlow	37,000	37,000
Clondalkin	600,000	600,000
Cork	4,077,000	175,000
Dublin 12	1,165,624	1,165,624
Dublin North East	354,924	354,924
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown	2,292,000	500,000
Finglas Cabra	1,395,079	245,079
Galway	364,000	64,000
Limerick	2,053,514	313,624
North Inner City	1,490,000	1,140,000
South Inner City	1,098,140	158,140
Tallaght	1,467,841	301,000
Waterford	1,546,426	546,426
Total	20,573,975	6,899,067

Cross-Border Projects.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

352 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will report on the work of the North-South unit in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22594/07]

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív)

The North/South section in my Department is responsible for supporting, monitoring and liaising with Waterways Ireland and An Foras Teanga — the two North/South Implementation Bodies jointly co-sponsored and co-funded by my Department with the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure in Northern Ireland. The section is also responsible for the management of funding for certain cross-border initiatives under the Peace and INTERREG Programmes.

Other significant priorities for the North/South section are to provide administrative support, together with the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure, for the work of the North/South Ministerial Council meeting in the Inland Waterways and Language sectoral formats; to advance the programme for the restoration of the south-west section of the Ulster Canal; and to promote the continued development of contacts and close co-operation with relevant public bodies and non-governmental organisations in Northern Ireland.

Irish Horseracing Industry.

Joe McHugh

Question:

353 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason a person (details supplied) can not access X-rays of their horse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22731/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

This is an operational matter for the Irish Horse Board which is a cooperative registered under the Industrial and Provident Societies Acts, 1893-1978. The Minister has no official responsibility in relation to this matter.

Bovine Diseases.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

354 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food her views on increasing the age limit for BSE testing from 30 to 36 months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22282/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

Having the age limit for BSE testing increased has been a priority of mine since my appointment as Minister and I and my officials have pushed the case at every opportunity. I have long taken the view that, given the significant decline in the incidence of the disease across the European Union in recent years, not least in Ireland, and the control measures in place, an increase in the age limit is entirely justified.

I am pleased, therefore, that the EU Commission has recently tabled proposals that, if adopted, will result, in respect of healthy slaughtered animals, for the testing of 100 per cent of cattle aged over 42 months and born before 1 January 2002, and 50 per cent of cattle aged over 42 months and born after 1 January 2002. For emergency slaughtered cattle and fallen stock, the proposal is to test 100 per cent of emergency slaughtered cattle and fallen stock aged over 36 months.

Work is continuing in Brussels to finalise the criteria against which the performance of any Member State will be measured in order to avail of the newly proposed testing arrangements. I am pressing to have this work concluded as quickly as possible.

Sheep Sector.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

355 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she has plans to implement in part or in full the recommendations contained in the Report of the Malone Sheep Strategy Group; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22283/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The Sheep Industry Strategy Development Group, under the chairmanship of Mr. John Malone, issued its report in June 2006. The report contained a total of 37 recommendations as to how the future of the sheep sector could be secured going forward. I established an Implementation Group, also under the chairmanship of Mr. Malone, in July 2006, to oversee the implementation of the recommendations contained in the report.

The Implementation Group reported in April. Most of the recommendations in the report fall to be implemented by the industry itself. My Department will be supporting the recommendations through assistance for breeding and management, processing facilities, mechanical grading, quality assurance and health and welfare.

In addition and in line with the Group's report, sheep farmers are major beneficiaries of various schemes being operated by my Department. Under REPS 4, which I recently launched, a new supplementary measure aimed at sheep farmers has been introduced. A budget of €28m a year has been allocated to fund the proposed new supplementary measure at an overall cost of over €170m for the period to 2013. Assistance is also available to sheep farmers for on farm investments under the new Rural Development Programme.

I feel the comprehensive package of measures now being adopted will secure the full commitment of all those involved in the sector and the result will be a more efficient, competitive and profitable sheep industry at all levels.

Grant Payments.

Bobby Aylward

Question:

356 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the grants available from her Department to horse trainers for the building of stables. [22309/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The Farm Improvement Scheme was introduced by my Department last July and provides grant-aid to eligible farmers for, inter alia, the building of stables for horses. The maximum eligible investment ceiling for such work under the Scheme is €120,000 and the standard grant-rate is 40%.

P. J. Sheehan

Question:

357 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive their 2006 cattle headage payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22347/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

An application under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Area Scheme was received from the person named on 8 November 2006. Applications received after 10 June 2006, the latest date for receipt of late applications under the 2006 Schemes, the closing date having been 15 May 2006, were ineligible for payment, unless satisfactory evidence of acceptable Force Majeure/ exceptional circumstances was presented by the applicant. The person named was advised accordingly by letter dated 14 December 2006 and replied by letter dated 27 March 2007. Following consideration of the reply, the person named was advised, by letter dated 17 April 2007, that the application was not admissible. The person named was also advised of their right to appeal this decision to the Agriculture Appeals Office; it is understood that the person named has not availed of this option.

Payments under the 2007 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme commenced on 21 September 2007, with payments issuing to all applicants whose applications were clear on that date. Payments continue to issue as individual cases are confirmed eligible for payment. Payment in full issued to the person named on 25 September, in the amount of €4,456.75.

Animal Feedstuffs.

John Deasy

Question:

358 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will ensure that the EU is aware of concern amongst Irish pig producers at the alarming increase in the cost of feed imported into this country; the efforts she is making to ensure that the EU reviews its policy on trade restrictions which prevent EU countries from using genetically modified feed but where the EU allows other countries to export their pigs which are fed on this product; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22364/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I am satisfied that the EU is fully aware of the rising costs of animal feedstuffs across Europe and the effect this is having on Irish pig producers. In response to developments on the International cereal and feed market, the EU Council of Agriculture Ministers agreed to suspend the obligation to set 10% of arable land aside. The Commission is also examining ways of synchronizing the GM authorization processes between the EU and the US

Animal feed materials used in pig diets, such as soya and whole maize, are derived from EU authorised GM crops. All animal feed materials consisting of, or containing, genetically modified ingredients which have been authorised under EU legislation can be placed on the EU market. In 2006 some 455k tonne of soya, 90% of which was declared as being produced from EU authorised crops, was imported into Ireland for use in animal feed, much of which was used in pig rations.

Imports of pigmeat from Third Countries represents less that 1% of pigmeat consumed in the EU.

Live Exports.

Denis Naughten

Question:

359 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 119 of 27 September 2007, the EU Member States to which the export is prohibited; the reason in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22461/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I wish to advise the Deputy that Ireland is not prohibited from exporting live cattle to any EU Member State.

Animal Diseases.

James Bannon

Question:

360 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the measures she has put in place to counteract the joint threat from foot and mouth and bluetongue diseases and in particular in relation to the need for the eradication of the threat from Brazilian beef; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22467/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

My Department and I have been particularly proactive in taking measures designed to minimise the risk of the introduction to Ireland of either Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) or Bluetongue.

With regard to the threat of FMD, I introduced an immediate ban on the importation to Ireland from Great Britain of live susceptible animals, fresh meat, raw milk and other products from such animals as soon as the first case of FMD was confirmed in Surrey on 3rd August. I also instructed the immediate installation of disinfection points at Irish ports and airports. My Department also published information leaflets for people travelling from Britain and published information notices in the national newspapers as well as providing advice to the organisers of agricultural shows. Furthermore, my Department set-up a dedicated FMD website which contains a significant amount of useful information and advice.

Within days of the introduction of my ban on imports from Britain, the European Commission introduced a ban on the export from Britain of susceptible live animals and products, including those included in my earlier ban. The Commission Decision was strictly enforced by my Department and a subsequent Commission Decision, introduced in the immediate aftermath of the first case in the second cluster of cases on 12th September, is currently being enforced by my Department.

In the short period during which live exports from Britain were permitted, there were three consignments of live animals imported from Britain and all have been traced and clinically examined and found not to have any signs of disease.

With regard to Bluetongue, my Department and I have responded proactively to the increased threat posed by the spread of the disease across northern Europe last year by engaging the Department of Zoology at NUI Galway to assist in carrying out a comprehensive surveillance survey of the midges that potentially spread the virus. In addition, my Department's laboratory service has been testing thousands of blood samples for any evidence of Bluetongue since August 2006. My Department has also updated its contingency plans and legislative basis and has provided advice leaflets to farmers and the veterinary profession as well as having organised an industry seminar on bluetongue in July. Comprehensive information is available on the Department's bluetongue website — www.bluetongue.ie

The more recent detection of the disease in Britain, along with the rapid spread of the disease across northern Europe and its detection at more northerly points than ever before, inevitably increase the threat to Ireland. On the 29th September, the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in Britain confirmed an outbreak of Bluetongue and immediately put in place the control measures required by Council Directive 2000/75/EC. There is, already, as a result of the FMD outbreak in Britain, a ban on the importation from Britain of live animals.

With regard to the threat presented by both Bluetongue and FMD, my approach is to ensure adequate awareness of the diseases and, particularly, the clinical signs with which farmers, veterinary practitioners and other livestock handlers ought to be familiar and to encourage vigilance among them when inspecting animals. In that regard, farmers and veterinary practitioners should note that Bluetongue is a notifiable disease and suspicions of the disease must be reported immediately to my Department. My Department and I are very conscious of the need to ensure such adequate awareness and are keeping the communications strategy under constant review.

I am satisfied that the control measures currently in place are, at all times, proportionate to the current level of risk. This is obviously a situation that also requires to be kept under review and I will not hesitate to refine and update those control measures should I be satisfied that the risk has increased and that further control measures are appropriate.

My Department and I have been working closely with the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs in London, the European Commission in Brussels and, particularly, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) in Belfast. I have been and continue to be in frequent contact with my Ministerial colleagues in London and Dublin while my officials are in constant contact with their counterparts.

On the issue of control of imports of beef into EU, this is primarily a matter for the EU Commission acting through its Food and Veterinary Office.

With regard to the importation of beef from Brazil, I wish to clarify that, firstly all imports of beef into the EU are from regions which are designated FMD free and have been approved by the EU for the export from Brazil into the Community. Secondly the type of beef that is authorised is deboned, maturated beef which has been slaughtered in EU approved slaughterhouses and subsequently heat treated and matured following slaughter to ensure elimination of any potential presence of the FMD virus. Thirdly the beef must be traceable for 90 days before slaughter and the animals from which it was derived have been resident for at least 40 days on the holding of origin in that state before slaughter. In all cases, such imports must be accompanied by veterinary health certification from the competent authority in Brazil.

As I have previously stated, I have taken the opportunity to raise this point on a number of occasions with the EU Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, Mr Markos Kyprianou. He has assured me that the Commission will not hesitate to take the appropriate protection measures if a product imported from a third country, poses a risk to the health of EC consumers or livestock. I have been informed that further FVO missions are being undertaken to Brazil and the Commission will reassess the authorization of exports from Brazil in the light of the outcome of these missions.

Grant Payments.

Beverley Flynn

Question:

361 Deputy Beverley Flynn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has not received approval for their application for grant aid for an ESB connection to their slatted shed. [22571/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The person concerned is an applicant under the Farm Waste Management Scheme and his application is currently being processed. However, my Department does not provide grant-aid for the connection of electricity to farm buildings.

Cross-Border Projects.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

362 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will report on the work of the North-South unit in her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22591/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

The North-South Unit of my Department is the central and coordinating point for any matter involving co-operation in relation to Agriculture between my Department and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in Northern Ireland.

The main areas of co-operation were laid down in the Good Friday Agreement and the North-South Unit facilitates progress in these areas. The areas specifically identified were animal and plant health. The work of the North-South Unit includes contact with the Joint Secretariat of the North South Ministerial Council and involvement in sectoral meetings.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Michael Ring

Question:

363 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when REP scheme four will be fully introduced and available for applications through the local offices of her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22603/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I launched REPS 4 on 8 August after Ireland's Rural Development Programme was approved by the EU Structural Funds Committee. Scheme documents were subsequently published on my Department's website and printed versions are currently being made available in local AES Offices.

A number of applications have already been received. Those that were received in September will, if they were valid, be paid with a start date of 1 October 2007; similarly, valid applications arriving this month will have a start date of 1 November. The electronic mapping system, eREPS, is being re-programmed for the new scheme and will be available at the end of October. This system is funded by my Department and hosted by Teagasc, and is now used by the majority of planners. Planners still have the option of submitting REPS plans with maps that have been prepared manually, however, and the applications received so far have been prepared in this way.

Decentralisation Programme.

Margaret Conlon

Question:

364 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position in relation to provision of office space for her Department in Ballybay. [22622/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

My Department is currently examining the provision of office space in Ballybay.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Dara Calleary

Question:

365 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the details of REP scheme four will be made available to farmers. [22648/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

I launched REPS 4 on 8 August after Ireland's Rural Development Programme was approved by the EU Structural Funds Committee. Scheme documents were subsequently published on my Department's website and printed versions are currently being made available in local AES Offices.

A number of applications have already been received. Those that were received in September will, if they were valid, be paid with a start date of 1 October 2007; similarly, valid applications arriving this month will have a start date of 1 November. The electronic mapping system, eREPS, is being re-programmed for the new scheme and will be available at the end of October. This system is funded by my Department and hosted by Teagasc, and is now used by the majority of planners. Planners still have the option of submitting REPS plans with maps that have been prepared manually, however, and the applications received so far have been prepared in this way.

Departmental Agencies.

Jack Wall

Question:

366 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when Teagasc was established; the area of responsibility it had then; the person it was responsible to; if she and her Department had the total control of Teagasc; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22798/07]

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Deputy Mary Coughlan)

Teagasc, the Agriculture and Food Development Authority, was established under the Agriculture (Research, Training and Advice) Act, 1988. Its establishment day was 5 September 1988. Its principal function, set out in Section 4 of the Act, is to provide research, training and advisory services for the agri-food sector.

As provided for in the Act Teagasc is governed by an eleven member Authority. The Chairman and five ordinary members are appointed by the Minister and the remaining five members are appointed by the Minister following nominations from designated organizations. Subject to the provisions of the Act, and other requirements such as the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies, it is the responsibility of the Teagasc Authority to exercise full and effective control over the organisation and monitor the executive management and performance.

Ministerial responsibility to Dáil Eireann in relation to Teagasc is confined to matters of policy in accordance with the Act. The Minister does not interfere in the day-to-day operations of Teagasc.

Youth Services.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Question:

367 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of grant funding her Department has provided to Foróige for the years 2002 to date in 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22342/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science (Deputy Seán Haughey)

Foróige receives annual grant-in-aid funding from my Department under the Youth Service Grant Scheme, Special Projects for Youth Scheme and Youth Information Centres Scheme.

The organisation has received total grant-in-aid funding of €26.6million for the years 2002 to 2007 to date. Details of the funding provided are as follows:

Youth Service Grant Scheme
Year	Grants-in-aid paid
	€
2002	1,689,850
2003	1,821,952
2004	1,894,830
2005	2,064,667
2006	2,319,001
2007	2,492,926

Special Projects for Youth Scheme
Year	Grants-in-aid paid
	€
2002	1,528,473
2003	1,683,200
2004	1,795,591
2005	2,261,881
2006	2,444,838
2007	2,747,453

Youth Information Centres
Year	Grants-in-aid paid
	€
2002	323,096
2003	276,143
2004	297,948
2005	370,725
2006	354,395
2007	204,207

Note: Foróige grant-in-aid in respect of one Youth Information Centre has not yet been finalised and is not included in the above total for 2007.

Student Support Services.

Brian Hayes

Question:

368 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on setting up an independent body to adjudicate over allegations of sexual harassment and malpractice of students in third level colleges; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22438/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

I do not believe that there is a need to set up an independent body on the lines suggested by the Deputy. Our higher education institutions are autonomous bodies which have statutory and other grievance procedures. The statutory procedures provide for appointment of an independent person or persons as appropriate.

Of course, where allegations are of a criminal nature they should be reported to the Garda authorities.

Schools Building Projects.

Deirdre Clune

School Accommodation.

Shane McEntee

Question:

373 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Education and Science when her officials propose to visit schools (details supplied) in County Meath with a timeframe for the provision of classrooms to meet the two schools future needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22279/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

Schools Building Projects.

Joanna Tuffy

Question:

377 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Education and Science the status with regard to the proposed construction of a new school at a school (details supplied) in County Cork; when she expects work to commence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22336/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The position regarding the provision of a new school in Summercove is that the Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works (OPW), which acts on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally, has been asked to source a suitable site for this school. A site has been identified at this stage and the OPW are currently in negotiations with the owner for its acquisition.

When the site has been secured the proposed building project for the school will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme and available financial resources.

School Staffing.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

378 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of laboratory technicians and assistants employed in secondary schools; and if she will act upon the recommendation of the Task Force on the Physical Sciences which recommended the employment of laboratory technicians and assistants in all second level schools. [22350/07]

Margaret Conlon

Question:

400 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will approve the employment of laboratory technicians in all second level schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22625/07]

Brian O'Shea

Question:

429 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals she has to provide laboratory technicians in all second level schools (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22844/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 378, 400 and 429 together.

Significant progress has been made in progressing a range of areas highlighted in the Report of the Task Force on the Physical Sciences e.g. A new science curriculum has been introduced at primary level supported by a resource grant in December 2004 of €1000 per school plus €10 per pupil.

A revised syllabus in Junior Certificate Science was introduced in 2003 and it was examined for the first time in June 2006. Revised syllabi in Leaving Certificate Physics, Chemistry and Biology have also been introduced and examined within the last five years. Work on the revision of the two remaining Leaving Certificate subjects — Agricultural Science and Physics and Chemistry (combined) — is well advanced. The introduction of each of the revised syllabi has been supported by comprehensive in-service programmes for teachers.

Additional equipment grants have been provided to schools, and laboratories continue to be refurbished as part of the ongoing school building programme. In that context, €16 million was issued to schools in 2004 to support the implementation of the revised Junior Certificate Science syllabus.

Investment in the Programme of Research in Third Level Institutes (PRTLI) is continuing apace to enhance and promote world class standards in research, innovation and development.

My Department does not allocate provision for laboratory technicians/assistants in second level schools. The recommendation made by the Task Force Report in this area, in 2002 prices, was costed at €18.8m annually. The current cost of such provision is estimated at c. €24.6m for science subjects only, but could exceed €120m annually if applied to other practical subjects. While I have made it clear that I am not yet convinced of the need for lab assistants and that I believe that their provision would lead to demands for similar assistance in other subjects with a strong practical component, the Government is committed under the Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation to re-visiting the issue. A decision on this issue can only be made in the context of the resources available from time to time in the Estimates.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation 2006 to 2013 sets out a range of measures to further strengthen science teaching and learning and improve the uptake of senior cycle Physics and Chemistry. These include ensuring that the project based hands-on investigative approach now in place at junior cycle is extended to senior cycle, that the appropriate type of assessment is used and that there is an emphasis on the inter-disciplinary nature of science in society.

Other aspects of the Plan include: reviewing the implementation of the primary science curriculum to ensure its effectiveness in stimulating interest and awareness in science at a very young age, strengthening teacher training in this area, reforming maths and Leaving Certificate Physics and Chemistry curricula, promotion of science initiatives in Transition Year; and, the provision of information and brochures on science opportunities and careers, linking effectively with school guidance services.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 380 to 382, inclusive, together.

I am aware of the needs of the visually impaired students in accessing educational materials in various formats. As the Deputy is already aware, the National Braille Production Centre (NBPC), an integral part of the services provided by St. Joseph's School for the Visually Impaired in Drumcondra, Dublin, was established in 2000 to provide blind/visually impaired pupils at first and second level with textbooks in braille and other alternative formats. The NBPC produces educational materials in braille, large print format and text only for children who are blind or visually impaired. It is an essential service to children and young people who are blind or visually impaired and without it many of them would not be able to access mainstream education or be able to undertake the Junior and Senior Cycle examinations.

The NBPC provides an essential service to children who are blind or visually impaired and it is important that it is adequately funded to enable it to meet the needs of such children. Many of the children for whom the NBPC caters are being educated in a mainstream setting and the success of the mainstream placement is dependent on suitable educational materials being available to these children in a timely fashion.

Due to the technical processes involved, the NBPC requires a significant notice period in relation to orders for the materials in question. In the case of late orders or other unforeseen circumstances where a delay occurs in the provision of books, officials from the NBPC, in conjunction with the parents of the pupil/student and the Department's Visiting Teacher Service for the Visually Impaired, work together to establish solutions to provide the books in a timely manner. It is accepted practice generally that the Braille books are delivered in volumes throughout the school year, due to the lengthy transcription process.

My Department's Visiting Teacher Service for the Visually Impaired has a significant role to play in the process of ordering books or materials on behalf of a particular pupil/student. In 2006, a protocol dealing solely and exclusively with the provision of educational materials in alternative formats was agreed between the NBPC and my Department's Visiting Teacher Service for the Visually Impaired. The protocol was devised on the initiative of the Visiting Teacher Service for the Visually Impaired and will be reviewed very shortly on the basis of current experience in its operation. Any amendments to the protocol will be put in place and communicated to all relevant interests, including parents, without delay following the review.

An Advisory Board for the NBPC is in place and includes representation from parents and guardians and other interested parties including the Visiting Teacher Service.

My officials have met with the NBPC recently to discuss its operations and services and it is intended to meet them again shortly.

Higher Education Grants.

Michael Ring

Question:

383 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the official documents that can be used as proof of independent residency where a student is applying for a third level maintenance grant and they have not been registered as a tenant to the Private Residential Tenancies Board by their landlord in order that they cannot get a letter from the Private Residential Tenancies Board. [22386/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The Higher Education Grants Scheme operates under the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Acts, 1968 to 1992. These Acts define a mature student to mean a person "of not less than 23 years of age, or such other age as may stand specified for the time being in regulations made by the Minister with the consent of the Minister for Finance, who have secured places in approved institutions and have reached that age on the 1st day of January, or such other date as may be prescribed from time to time by the Minister with the consent of the Minister for Finance, in the year of entry to such institutions".

Mature students are categorised as either independent mature students or mature students dependent on parents. An independent mature student is defined to mean a mature student who was not ordinarily resident at home with his/her parents from the October preceding their entry to an approved course. Independent mature students are assessed without reference to either their parents' income or address.

In order to establish that a candidate is an independent mature student documentary evidence is required as proof of a candidate's ordinary/ permanent address from the 1st October of the year preceding entry to college. Examples of the type of documentary evidence, which would establish residence, are as follows:

(i)Utility bills such as telephone, gas, E.S.B.

(ii)Evidence of registration with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (P.R.T.B.)

(iii)Official Documentation from any Government Department e.g. Social Welfare or Revenue (if any), the awarding authorities are obliged to satisfy themselves beyond doubt that an acceptable degree of proof is submitted by the grant applicant in establishing eligibility under all aspects of the schemes.

Schools Building Projects.

Sean Sherlock

Question:

384 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will sanction funding for new primary school buildings at a school (details supplied) in County Cork in view of the fact that the planning section of the DEIS have passed all requirements regarding need, projected figures and local area plans and that the school has used prefabs for almost 20 years. [22387/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

An application for capital funding towards the provision of a new school has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy. An assessment of projected enrolment trends, demographic trends and housing developments in the area was carried out in order to inform the determination of the long term projected staffing on which the school's accommodation needs will be based. This has been finalised and notified to the school.

The building project required is being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.

School Transport.

Jack Wall

Question:

385 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the criteria and guidelines her Department has to ensure that children disembark at their designated drop off points; if each driver of a school bus has a listing of the children and their respective embarking and disembarking points; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22392/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science (Deputy Seán Haughey)

My Department has been advised by Bus Éireann, which operates the School Transport Scheme on its behalf, that all school bus tickets, both primary and post-primary, have the pick-up and set-down point clearly shown on them. Pupils are expected to disembark at their designated drop-off points as printed on their tickets. Parents/guardians also have a responsibility to ensure that their children arrive at, and are collected from, these pick-up and set-down points at the appropriate times.

It is not the general practice to provide school bus drivers operating within the Scheme with a listing of the pupils and their respective embarking and disembarking points.

Schools Building Projects.

Jack Wall

Question:

386 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the provision of a new primary school (details supplied) in County Kildare; the position regarding discussions with primary schools regarding a possible rationalisation or re-configuration of primary educational facilities in the area where the schools are located; the stage the discussions are at; the agreements that have been reached; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22393/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

Discussions are on-going with the authorities of the schools to which the Deputy refers in relation to their long term accommodation needs. As part of this process, meetings have also taken place with both Kildare County Council and Athy Town Council with a view to ensuring that the appropriate level of educational provision is made in the context of planned housing developments.

The Department expects to be in a position to make a decision on the long term needs of Athy shortly.

School Services Staff.

Dan Neville

Question:

387 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science when a classroom assistant will be made available for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [22442/07]

Among the priority funding measures approved for support in 2006/2007 under the Educational Disadvantage category of the Dormant Account Fund and the RAPID Leverage Fund, was a scheme addressing educational infrastructure in disadvantaged schools. Eligibility for the scheme was restricted to primary and post primary schools participating in my Department's DEIS programme; schools in, or serving, RAPID areas; and special schools.

The scheme consists of four measures and a number of sub-measures. The four measures are: (1) Outdoor Play Facilities; (2) Libraries; (3) Parent Rooms; and (4) Dining Areas. Eligible schools were allowed to submit prioritised proposals under each of the measures. Proposals were sought in respect of improvements to existing facilities (‘enhancements' or ‘non new-builds') and the development of new facilities (‘new-builds').

A total of €20.5m, (€14.5m from the Dormant Accounts and €6m from the RAPID Leverage Fund, which is administered by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs), has been made available to fund the scheme. The scheme was launched on 16th January 2007, with a closing date for applications of 1st March 2007. The scheme was over-subscribed with 2,271 individual project proposals submitted for funding. The total amount of grant aid sought exceeded the funding available under the scheme.

The first stage of assessment involved proposals identified by applicants as Priority 1, 2 & 3 under the Outdoor Play Facilities Measure; lower priorities were not assessed because there is insufficient funding available. In July, €6.25m in funding was approved in respect of 447 Outdoor Play Facilities projects. These projects are currently being implemented by schools.

Phase II involves the assessment of some 380 library enhancement proposals. This work is at a very advanced stage and it is intended to progress the assessment in a matter of weeks. Phase III, which will involve the assessment of the Parent Room and Dining Area proposals, will occur subsequently.

School Accommodation.

Olwyn Enright

Question:

391 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science when a technical inspection report relating to a school (details supplied) in County Offaly will be available; the reason for the delay in publishing the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22568/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The Deputy will be aware of the significantly increased activity in the area of provision of additional school accommodation as a result of the recent demographic changes. In this context, the Department's technical unit have carried out a large number of technical inspections in order to progress new school building/extension projects to Design Team Appointment stage.

A technical inspection has been carried out in the school to which the Deputy refers and a report of this inspection is expected shortly. The Department will be in contact with the school's management authority as soon as the contents of the report have been considered.

Schools Building Projects.

Michael McGrath

Question:

392 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in appointing a design team for a new primary school building (details supplied) in County Cork; and the position regarding this appointment. [22588/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the process of appointing a Design Team for the school building project he refers to is at an advanced stage. Tender documents issued to consultants on 10th September last. The closing date for receipt of replies is 15th October 2007. Subsequent to the tender submissions being assessed, a number of documents will be requested from the preferred consultants namely, Tax Clearance Certificate, evidence of Certified Turnover and evidence of suitable Professional Indemnity Insurance. Once these documents are checked and deemed appropriate, contracts will be signed and architectural planning of the school project will commence immediately thereafter.

Special Educational Needs.

Michael McGrath

Question:

393 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department has plans to provide a dedicated ABA autism unit in Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22589/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The Deputy will be aware of my commitment to ensuring that all children, including those with autism, receive an education appropriate to their needs.

With regard to specific provision for children with autism, the Government believes that as each child with autism is unique; such children should have access to a range of different interventions to meet their individual needs. Applied behavioural analysis, or ABA, is one of the methodologies used in special classes for children with autism.

Advice received from international experts on autism, the National Educational Psychological Service and the inspectorate inform the Department of Education and Science's view that a range of approaches should be used, rather than just one. An analysis of research, including the report of the Irish Task Force on Autism, also supports this approach, and autism societies in other countries also caution against relying on just one intervention. By enabling children in special classes to have access to a range of methodologies, including ABA, the Government is doing what we are advised is in the best interests of such children.

The use of ABA as part of the range of interventions is particularly useful for addressing behavioural issues. My Department therefore supports the use of ABA and training is provided for teachers in its use. It is important that children have access to a range of methods so their broader needs can be met. Whereas ABA helps to improve behaviour, other interventions, such as TEACCH and PECS, are important in developing children's communication skills.

Children in special classes have the benefit of fully-qualified teachers trained in educating and developing children generally and who have access to additional training in autism-specific approaches, including ABA. The level of such training available to teachers has significantly improved in recent years and is a major priority for the Government. Children in special classes also have the option, where possible and appropriate, of full or partial integration into mainstream classes and of interaction with other pupils.

In excess of 265 autism-specific classes have now been approved around the country at primary and post primary level and the National Council for Special Education will continue to establish more such classes where the need arises. At primary level there are a maximum of six children in each special class with a teacher and at least two special needs assistants (SNAs). Extra assistants are provided where the children need them. An individual child can have access to full-time support from an individual SNA if he or she needs one.

My Department is currently funding an ABA pilot scheme which was established in the absence of this network of special classes in our schools. The Government is committed to long term funding for the centres participating in the scheme, including one based in Cork, subject to agreement on standards that will enable my department to support them as primary schools for children with autism. In terms of autism provision in other locations, we will continue to work to ensure that all children can have access to a broad programme, with provision for ABA as appropriate, in special classes.

Cross-Border Projects.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

394 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on the work of the North-South unit in her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22595/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

My Department, together with the Department of Education Northern Ireland, has responsibility for the development of co-operation and common action in the field of education between both parts of the island of Ireland, in the context of the Good Friday Agreement. My Department's North/South Unit is required to take forward this co-operation through the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC) and to develop, within that framework, common policies in the designated areas of special education needs, educational underachievement, teacher mobility and school, youth and teacher exchanges.

My Department's North South Unit also develops, supports and participates in a range of programmes and joint initiatives designed to increase mutual understanding and promote closer co-operation. A number of these extend beyond the island of Ireland, involving co-operation with education authorities in Britain, the United States, the European Union and other countries and institutions with a view to maximising the positive contribution they can make to North/South co-operation.

The re-establishment of the NI Assembly structures including the North South Ministerial Council will present opportunities to enrich and develop cooperative activities with Northern Ireland in the education and youth sector.

The next Education Sectoral meeting of the NSMC will take place in Dublin in November 2007.

School Accommodation.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

395 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation with regard to the provision of new school facilities for a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath. [22616/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The Department's School Planning Section is currently examining educational provision at primary level in the area to which the Deputy refers. Factors under consideration include population growth, demographic trends, current and projected enrolments, recent and planned housing developments and the capacity of existing schools to meet the demand for places. Having considered these factors, a decision will be made on the means by which any emerging needs should be met for the area, including the school to which the Deputy refers.

Schools Building Projects.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

396 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation with regard to the provision of a new primary school for an area (details supplied) in County Westmeath. [22617/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The proposal for the school referred to by the Deputy is to construct a new 16-classroom generic repeat design facility on the existing school site. Currently, the Client, the School Board of Management, is in the final stages of appointing an architectural design team to the project. The final date for receipt of tenders from pre-selected, short-listed candidates is Tuesday, 23rd October. When the Board of Management has completed their assessment of the tenders and appointed their preferred consultants, architectural planning of the project will commence with immediate effect.

Michael McGrath

Question:

397 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science when her Department will approve an extension to the school building for a primary school (details supplied) in County Cork. [22618/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

An application for capital funding towards the provision of an extension has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy. An assessment of projected enrolment trends, demographic trends and housing developments in the area was carried out in order to inform the determination of the long term projected staffing on which the school's accommodation needs will be based. This has been finalised and notified to the school. The building project required is being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Special Educational Needs.

Margaret Conlon

Question:

398 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the allocation of resource hours to children diagnosed with dyslexia and discalculia. [22623/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

My Department has given a very high priority to the provision of resources to address the learning difficulties of children with low levels of achievement in reading and numeracy. As the Deputy is aware, my Department implemented a general allocation system in all primary schools in September 2005 to ensure that every school has learning support/resource teaching support already in place to meet the needs of children with high-incidence special educational needs, including those children with a specific learning disability in the areas of reading, writing, reasoning or mathematics. There are now over 6,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special educational needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares to fewer than 1,500 in 1998.

The special educational supports provided to second level students vary according to the students' needs. Students with a specific learning disability are normally integrated into ordinary classes. In such situations they may receive additional support from the remedial/learning support teacher, guidance counsellor and individual subject teachers. Over 2,490 whole time equivalent teachers are in place to work directly with pupils with special educational needs in post-primary schools with 560 of these being learning support teachers.

My Department will continue to prioritise educational provision for students with special educational needs.

School Transport.

Margaret Conlon

Question:

399 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to review the school bus catchment areas. [22624/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science (Deputy Seán Haughey)

The Programme for Government includes a commitment to review the school transport scheme, including catchment boundaries. My Department is currently considering how best to progress this task.

Question:

420 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of secondary school places in Lucan; her views on whether this number is adequate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22771/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 402, 417, 419 and 420 together.

I am conscious of the extent of housing developments in the Lucan area and the pressure that this has created for school places. In light of this, the Department has expanded capacity significantly at both primary and post primary level to cater for existing and newly emerging demands for pupil places.

The Department monitors primary pre-enrolment lists in the area on an on-going basis to ensure adequate capacity and will provide extra accommodation if needed. A total of 4,832 pupils were enrolled in the 12 primary schools in Lucan in September 2006. The enrolment figures increased to 5,128 this September and there are now 13 primary schools serving the Lucan area.

At post primary level, recent building projects have increased capacity to 3,000 pupil places which will cater for not only the current enrolments of 2,476 pupils but provide additional capacity of over 500 places. In addition, a building project for Lucan Community College will further increase capacity by 200 pupil places. A building project for St Joseph's College is also being assessed currently with a view to providing additional capacity at post-primary level in Lucan.

The situation will continue to be monitored to ensure that there are sufficient places to meet demand into the future.

Departmental Reviews.

Dara Calleary

Question:

403 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the review of her Department’s Technical Guidance Document T9D 014 Guidance for the Preselection of Contracts for Capital Works Projects. [22649/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

Technical Guidance Document 014 relating to Guidance for the Pre-Selection of Contractors for Capital Works Projects is under review in my Department at present. The review is being carried out in consultation with the Department of Finance and the revised guidance document will be published on my Department's website as soon as the review is completed.

Site Acquisitions.

Darragh O'Brien

Question:

404 Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will arrange for the urgent allocation of a permanent site for a school (details supplied) as they will have to vacate their current location in May 2008. [22652/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

As the Deputy will be aware the Department is moving to acquire a number of sites reserved in the Balbriggan area under the Fingal School Model Agreement for the provision of educational facilities. A permanent site for the school referred to by the Deputy is being acquired under this process.

With regard to the necessary re-location of the school at the end of the 2007/08 school-year, officials in the School Planning Section of the Department are considering alternative accommodation options as a matter of priority.

Teacher Graduates.

Terence Flanagan

Question:

405 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of pupils from an area (details supplied) that have registered and graduated from each teacher training college over the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22660/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

Below in tabular form are the numbers of pupils from Dublin city or county who (i) registered with, and (ii) graduated from the five Colleges of Education in each of the years 2003 to 2006 inclusive (Bachelor of Education or the Post Graduate Diploma in Education). The figures for 2007 are in the course of preparation by the Colleges and when received will be forwarded directly to the Deputy by my Department.

Hibernia College commenced the distance learning 18 month Post Graduate course in primary teaching in October 2003. Forty two, fifty six and ninety three individuals with Dublin city or county addresses graduated from the course in 2005, 2006 and 2007 respectively.

Year	Bachelor Education	Post Grad Ed
	Entrants	Graduates	Entrants	Graduates
2003	110	82	109	107
2004	117	110	64	68
2005	152	140	74	98
2006	131	114	67	89
Total	510	446	314	362

Primary schools in which between three and thirteen eligible non-national pupils are enrolled receive grant assistance towards the cost of employing part-time teachers. The 2007Budget for financial support to schools is €4.2 million.

Language assessment kits, based on best international practice, are to be provided to all primary schools during the 2007/08 school year. The kits will enable accurate initial and on-going assessment of language proficiency of newcomer children with a particular focus upon assessing whether language support needs to be provided beyond the current two year limit.

NCCA intercultural guidelines to support teachers and schools in developing a more inclusive learning environment and in providing students with knowledge and skills they need to participate in a multicultural world. Corresponding guidelines for intercultural education in post-primary schools have also been made available by the NCCA.

The brief for the building for the school in question is for 12 general classrooms and appropriate ancillary accommodation. The Board of Management of the school have been advised of the approval of Stage 3 of the architectural design and instructed to advise their Design Team to progress the project to the next stage of architectural planning.

Damien English

Question:

412 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress on her Department’s plans for the future provision of post primary schools in Navan, County Meath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22704/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The Department is in regular communication with officials in Meath County Council in relation to proposed housing developments for Navan and the consequential educational requirements that may be necessary for the future at both primary and post-primary level.

The Navan Development Plan 2003-2009 identified 5 areas in Navan as being suitable for the preparation of Local Area Plans and the Department will be reserving sites at both primary and post-primary level as part of these Local Area Plans.

At present only Local Area Plan No. 3 has been published. The Department is included among the prescribed authorities to whom local authorities are statutorily obliged to send draft development plans or proposed variations to development plans for comment. As a matter of course meetings are arranged with local authorities to establish the location, scale and pace of any major proposed developments and sites are reserved, where necessary, to ensure as far as possible the timely delivery of any required education infrastructure.

At present Navan is served by 4 post-primary schools and one of these was recently approved funding for the provision of two further classrooms to cater for its immediate accommodation needs. The Department will continue to monitor the need for the provision of a further post-primary school in Navan in the future and continue communications, as required, with officials in Meath County Council.

Site Acquisitions.

Damien English

Question:

413 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 777 of 26 September 2007, if the site being looked at for a school (details supplied) will be large enough to accommodate any proposed future secondary school for the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22705/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

As outlined to the Deputy in my previous Parliamentary response, the Department is in the process of trying to acquire a suitable site for the primary school concerned. It is not proposed to locate a post-primary school at the site in question.

Home-School Liaison Scheme.

Joe McHugh

Question:

414 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the situation of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22730/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

An additional 80 posts were made available in 2006 to extend Home School Community Liaison services to all schools selected to participate in DEIS, the Action Plan for Educational Inclusion, that did not have such services. I also extended my commitment to schools not selected to participate in DEIS but already in HSCL scheme, to continue to support these schools in their efforts to deal with educational disadvantage among their students. HSCL coordinator posts are provided on a full time or shared basis between schools and must be deployed to do full-time liaison duties. For the first time, posts are shared across the two sectors — primary & post primary level, to facilitate local HSCL coordinators working with the families of disadvantaged children.

A total of 691 schools now have the services of 450 local HSCL co-ordinators and my Department is currently undertaking a full review of Home School Community Liaison (HSCL) clustering arrangements, to ensure that all schools participating in the scheme have a level of service which is commensurate with both the size of the school as well as its relative level of disadvantage. Any changes made in the HSCL clustering arrangements in schools, which will take effect from 1 September 2008, will facilitate local HSCL coordinators working with families of disadvantaged children across both primary and second level.

HSCL provision in both schools referred to by the Deputy is being considered as part of this review.

Special Educational Needs.

Damien English

Question:

415 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Education and Science if speech and therapy will be reinstated for a person (details supplied) in County Meath; the reason for the cessation of this service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22764/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

I wish to advise the Deputy that the provision of therapy services, including speech therapy for people with disabilities, is a matter for the Health Services Executive (HSE) and funding is provided to the HSE for such purposes. It is open to the Deputy to contact my colleague the Minister for Health and Children or the HSE directly regarding the matter.

Millennium Partnership Fund.

Sean Fleming

Question:

416 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of education grants payable under the millennium education grant scheme for the most recent years for which figures are available; the nature of the organisations which qualify to receive this funding; if the social inclusion programmes are extended to other areas will they qualify for this Millennium Fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22766/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The Millennium Partnership Fund is made available through the National Office for Equity of Access to Third Level Education to Pobal who distribute the allocations to the participating Partnership Companies and Community Partnerships. The Fund was launched in September 2000. It forms part of the European Social Fund-aided package for education disadvantage at further and higher education. The objective of the fund is to support students from disadvantaged areas with regard to retention and participation in further or higher education courses.

The nature of the organisations which are eligible to apply for funding are partnership companies and community partnerships participating in the Local Development Social Inclusion Programme (LDSIP). Under the LDSIP no further partnership companies or community partnerships will be admitted. The table below sets out the allocations since the Fund was introduced in 2000.

Millennium Partnership Fund
Year	Gross Allocation	No. Parnership/ Community Groups	No. of Beneficiaries
	£ Irish
01/02	1,000,000	35	1,747
	Euro
02/03	2,000,000	50	3,385
03/04	2,000,000	59	3,759
04/05	2,000,000	59	3,791
05/06	2,050,000	57	3,957
06/07	2,111,500	56	n/a
07/08	2,175,000	56	n/a

Question No. 417 answered with QuestionNo. 402.

School Enrolments.

Enda Kenny

Question:

418 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children in secondary schools in Lucan with a breakdown by school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22769/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the number of pupils enrolled in each post-primary school in Lucan is contained in the table.

Post-Primary Schools in Lucan with enrolment details for the 2006/07 School Year
School Address Details	Number of Boys Enrolled	Number of Girls Enrolled	School Roll Number
St Josephs College, Lucan	—	810	60263V
Coláiste Phádraig CBS, Roselawn, Lucan	561	23	60264A
Coláiste Cois Life, Gleann an Ghrífín, Leamhcán	131	147	76065H
Lucan Community College, Esker Drive, Lucan	462	342	70080T

Questions Nos. 419 and 420 answered with Question No. 402.

Schools Recognition.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

421 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to set up an Educate Together school in Athlone, County Westmeath. [22777/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The New School Advisory Committee (NSAC) has received formal notification of intention to apply for recognition of the establishment of a Multi-Denominational primary school in Athlone in September 2008 under the patronage of Educate Together.

The New Schools Advisory Committee (NSAC) is an independent advisory group and was established to process applications for the recognition of new primary schools and to make recommendations to me. It is my role as Minister to consider the report and recommendations by the NSAC at the end of their deliberative process and to make a decision on the recommendations made. I would expect that NSAC will produce its report early in 2008.

School Accommodation.

Mary O'Rourke

Question:

422 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will provide a resource room to a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath. [22778/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The school to which the Deputy refers has been in contact with the Department concerning the need for an additional Resource Room. A formal application will be submitted by the school authority shortly and the application will be considered.

School Transport.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

423 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will take the necessary steps to have transport provided for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and ifshe will make a statement on the matter. [22784/07]

Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science (Deputy Seán Haughey)

The provision of transport under the School Transport Scheme may be considered in respect of education facilities which are recognised by my Department. As the facility referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied is neither recognised nor funded by my Department, the question of providing transport under the terms of the Scheme does not arise.

However, the Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has responsibility, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENO), for the establishment of special classes for autism and for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs. Parents are encouraged to contact their local SENO to discuss their child's special educational needs using the contact details on www.ncse.ie.

Higher Education Grants.

Michael Ring

Question:

424 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6 is not being considered for a third level grant as an independent mature student by Sligo County Council, Dublin City Council or Mayo County Council. [22791/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The decision on eligibility for third level grants and the issue of grant awards is a matter for the relevant Local Authority. I understand, from the information provided by the Deputy, that the student referred to completed her undergraduate studies in 2004 and commenced her post-graduate study in 2006/07 when she entered the Higher Diploma programme. The candidate is progressing, in the current academic year, to the Master's programme without a further break in studies. On this basis the student must be assessed with reference to the terms and conditions of the 2006 scheme i.e. the Scheme relevant at point-of-entry to the student's initial post-graduate course.

In order to be assessed as an independent mature student the candidate must still satisfy the conditions at point-of-entry in 2006/07 even though the grant application currently submitted relates to the 2007/08 academic year.

It is for the Local Authorities to agree among themselves which assessing body the application is more relevant to, having regard to where the candidate was ordinarily resident during the period from the 1st October 2005 to the date of commencement of the Higher Diploma programme in 2006/07.

The candidate will also have to satisfy the conditions pertaining to independent mature student status, as prescribed under the 2006 Scheme, in order to be assessed as such for the 2007/08 academic year.

Pupil-Teacher Ratio.

Joe Carey

Question:

425 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will present a report on class size for primary schools throughout the State on a county basis; her plans to reduce class size to no more than twenty pupils per class for all children under nine years of age; and ifshe will make a statement on the matter. [22829/07]

Minister for Education and Science (Deputy Mary Hanafin)

The information requested by the Deputy is included in the table for the 2006/2007 school year. As the Deputy will be aware, major improvements have been made in staffing at primary level in recent years. There are now 5,000 more primary teachers than there were in 2002. By the 2006/07 school year, we had reduced the average class size in our primary schools to 24, while the pupil teacher ratio was 16.4:1, including resource teachers etc. In that year, schools were staffed on the basis of a general rule of at least one classroom teacher for every 28 children. Given that the national average was 24, many schools benefited from much more favourable staffing ratios than this.

Extra teachers were provided by the Government for the 2007/08 school year to improve primary school staffing so that schools would generally get at least one classroom teacher for every 27 children.

A further initiative in recent years that has been of direct benefit to primary schools has been the change in the criteria for developing schools. For the current school year the threshold for getting a developing school post was reduced specifically to help schools that are seeing large increases in enrolments each year. Over 350 such posts have been sanctioned in the 2007/08 school year compared to 280 in 2006/07.

The improvements we have made in school staffing in recent years are absolutely unparalleled. The Government is committed to providing more teachers to our primary schools over the next five years. We will also continue our focus on measures to improve the quality of education in our primary schools to ensure that increased resources lead to better outcomes for our children.

Average Class Size By County 2006/2007
County	Total Pupils	No. Classes	Average Class Size
Carlow	5,836	229	25.5
Cavan	8,040	335	24.0
Clare	12,113	518	23.4
Cork City	13,655	598	22.8
Cork County	38,108	1,536	24.8
Donegal	17,684	767	23.1
Dublin City	40,891	1,798	22.7
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown	15,678	613	25.6
Fingal	25,925	970	26.7
Galway City	5,981	261	22.9
Galway County	18,052	828	21.8
Kerry	14,749	633	23.3
Kildare	23,221	875	26.5
Kilkenny	9,576	383	25.0
Laois	7,577	306	24.8
Leitrim	3,147	144	21.9
Limerick City	6,329	280	22.6
Limerick County	13,654	564	24.2
Longford	3,859	177	21.8
Louth	13,866	546	25.4
Mayo	13,377	628	21.3
Meath	19,707	764	25.8
Monaghan	6,365	274	23.2
Offaly	8,995	366	24.6
Roscommon	6,428	309	20.8
Sligo	6,572	290	22.7
South Dublin	27,263	1,110	24.6
Tipperary N.R.	7,566	323	23.4
Tipperary S.R.	9,435	400	23.6
Waterford City	5,606	221	25.4
Waterford County	6,886	278	24.8
Westmeath	9,553	395	24.2
Wexford	15,618	625	25.0
Wicklow	14,143	565	25.0
Total	455,455	18,909

Minister for Defence (Deputy Willie O’Dea)

Departmental Properties.

Jimmy Deenihan

Question:

436 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Office Of Public Works will sell or lease the building adjoining Tarbert Garda Station to an association (details supplied) in County Kerry for community use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22277/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The detailed allocation of Garda resources, including decisions on accommodation requirements, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner in accordance with his identified operational requirements. In the case of Garda buildings such decisions are taken in co-operation with the Office of Public Works (OPW) — the body in which ownership of the majority of the properties is vested.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the building adjoining Tarbert Garda Station was surveyed by the OPW in July 2007. A recommendation by the OPW for the disposal of the building, outbuildings and surplus site is currently under consideration by Garda management.

Asylum Applications.

Denis Naughten

Question:

437 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps which he is taking to address the delays in the asylum process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22288/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

As the Deputy is aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner (ORAC) and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal (RAT) which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted.

Two types of processing caseloads exist in the ORAC and the RAT namely, applications which are prioritised on foot of a ministerial prioritisation direction made under section 12 of the Refugee Act, 1996 and cases in respect of which such a direction does not exist.

In relation to processing timescales for prioritised asylum applications, on 24 January 2005 my predecessor announced new arrangements for the speedier processing of such applications which were implemented with effect from 25 January. The new arrangements apply in the main to nationals of Nigeria, Croatia, South Africa and Romania and Bulgaria prior to their accession to the EU on 1 January 2007.

In terms of timescales at first instance for prioritised cases, an interview date is usually scheduled within 9-12 working days from the date of the initial application. These applications are normally finalised within a further 5 to 8 working days giving an average processing time of 17/20 working days from the date of application.

The average length of time taken by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal to process and complete prioritised appeals received from nationals of five countries — Nigeria, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia and South Africa — between 1st July 2006 and 30th June 2007 was 6 weeks.

In the case of non-prioritised cases at first instance, an interview date is usually scheduled approximately 16 weeks from the date of the initial application. These applications are normally finalised within a further 4/5 weeks giving a total processing time of approximately 20/21 weeks from the date of application.

The average length of time taken by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal to process and complete substantive appeals received between 1st July 2006 and 30th June 2007 was approximately 16-17 weeks. Work is ongoing in the ORAC and RAT with a view to further reducing processing times for asylum applications. It should be noted, however, that the extent to which any period can be abridged is dictated in part by the necessity to allow an applicant a reasonable period in which to set out his or her claim in full. These safeguards are underpinned by the Refugee Act, 1996 itself. Also a range of factors can add to the complexity of cases notably where a case requires more than one interview or where the applicant is unable to attend an interview or hearing for valid medical reasons.

I should point out that following significant additional investment in the asylum determination process over the past six years, considerable progress has been made in processing asylum applications in the State and in the timescales involved. The Government has increased staffing in the asylum and immigration area from 22 in 1997 to a current sanctioned level of over 700. The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service is also currently developing three major information technology platforms representing a combined investment of €32 million approximately.

This is evidenced, for example, by the fact that the number of cases which are over six months old in the ORAC and the RAT stood at 2,018 on 31 August 2007, as compared to a figure of approximately 6,500 at the end of September, 2001.

As the Deputy will no doubt be aware, the Government in April 2007 published the Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill 2007. The Bill sets out a legislative framework for the management of inward migration to Ireland and represents a comprehensive overhaul of the State's immigration and protection laws. The Bill will integrate into the immigration code Ireland's processes for honouring our obligations under the 1951 Geneva Convention relating to the status of refugees and other international, including European Union, instruments designed to offer protection from persecution and other dangers. It also provides for a single protection procedure within which all grounds (protection or otherwise) on which a person may wish to remain in the State will be considered together at the same time. This contrasts with the present sequential processes for considering different aspects of the same basic question.

This new integrated process will bring the State into line with processes in other EU States and will result in the functions currently carried out by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner being subsumed into the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS). The current independent appeal process for asylum claimants will remain with the establishment of the Protection Review Tribunal which will replace the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. This new body will have an expanded remit to consider, in addition to appeals against decisions not to grant refugee status, appeals against decisions not to grant subsidiary protection as defined in the EU Asylum Qualification Directive.

Crime Levels.

Pat Rabbitte

Question:

438 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the 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. [22757/07]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Deputy Brian Lenihan)

The following table shows the number of murders recorded, detected, proceedings commenced and convictions which involved the use of a firearm for the years 1998 to 2006 and in 2007.

The number of murders recorded, detected, proceedings commenced and convictions in which a firearm was used for the years 1998 to 2006 and in 2007 up to 3 October
Year	Recorded	Detected	Proceeding Commenced	Convictions
2007 (to 3 October)	13	3	1	0
2006	27	10	5	0
2005	21	4	2	2
2004	9	8	5	4
2003	20	11	4	2
2002	10	5	4	3
2001	9	6	2	1
2000	12	7	6	2
1999	12	7	7	5
1998	4	3	2	1